::Top 5 Unique Gifts for the Awesomely Fun Momma in your Life::

::Momma Disclosure:: This post is not a sponsored, but some of the items below have been gifted to me by some of the shops mentioned below. All opinions are true and my own. 

We all have those people in our lives who have everything and who just need a little extra swag this Christmas. I love being a fun and cool Momma. Sometimes I fail, majorly, but I still love being a Momma. I have loved receiving the items below and know that there has to be that one Momma in your life who would also love them! I love it when gifts are more about the true thought put into it than the cost. The gifts below are all great items to add to any area of your collections and are also not going to break the bank! 

::Unique Graphic Tees:: 

I am known to wear graphic tees, a lot. This year I was happy to work with a couple of awesome Texas shops like; Sew Bonita (Frida Shirt below) and Taco Creative (Jesus Loves Taco shirt below). There are so many other shops where I get my t-shirts including places like Liv Luv Shop (Caffeine t-shirt below) & Pick Your Plum. As well as more common stores like Target or Walmart.  As part of my shop review with Elena, of Sew Bonita, we did an interview! 

It was our first time doing this hope you like it (Content edited by 90 Seconds Media): 

::Workout Clothes:: 

I am an active Momma. I am not the skinniest, nor do I run 10 miles a day, but I workout and love workout clothes! This year I partnered with Dick's Sporting Goods and received a gift card to purchase the items I needed and wanted most. They also sent me a great new pair of workout tennis shoes, all which I love. My favorites are comfortable form fitting yoga pants and bright colors! Loved this whole outfit from Dick's. I usually end up looking a hot mess after my workouts but at least now I look cute! Hey! 

::Mugs:: 

So, I have a little secret, or maybe not so much, I love MUGS! I drink tea more than coffee and I rarely use my pretty mugs but I love collecting them! These are my top favorites that I have sitting on my desk, looking oh so pretty! I also use them to hold my pens or business cards. Multi-use! I have purchased them in different places. Some local shops and places like Francesca's for the Blogging Day mug. The Calavera mug my co-worker gifted to me, of course, it's my absolute favorite!

::Unique Colorful Clutch bags or Purses:: 

This year I also partnered with Original Wear Travels Abroad, the three bags below are from some of their Spring and Summer Collections. You can truly never have enough purses. They are so handy and when you have options it makes getting ready a little more fun, such a girl, sometimes! There are so many shops that have unique pieces that are sure to match something in your closet and can turn into a great conversation piece at your next outing! 

::Unique Jewelry Pieces::

Also from Original Wear are the slice of heaven and colorful cuffs seen in the far right corner. The leather cuff with the large metal piece is from another amazing Texas talent, who is from the RGV (If you know me, I am a Texas Valley girl, so much support local!! so much support local?) the artist's name is Mitch Darte. She recently partnered with two local artists and opened a shop called Mi Casa Hidalgo. Check it out!! One of my favorite partnerships this year was with JORD Watches, their wood watches are amazing, and as holiday gifts, I am sure you'd make the Momma in your life very happy! The other items above are from The Silver Loft (red heart necklace and silver bracelet)  and  Luca Love Bracelets  (Set of 4 bracelets which include the Tree of Life, Story of Jesus and Alejandra's arrow, a set I created). 

::Gift Guide:: Sibling Edition

This gift guide was inspired by all the fabulous guides my fellow Houston Latina Bloggers have put out this week. Have you seen them? Check out our FB, Instagram and Twitter account for all the latest post! 

Our big ticket items for the kids, this year, were the following:

A Frozen karaoke system and a Skylander Interactive set.

"Santa" will be bringing the kids these gifts on Christmas day per our traditions. But, when it came to getting both the kids something that they could open on Christmas eve we love the following gifts. My Husband and I both agree that it should be something they can share and will be inexpensive. Since the expensive items will follow. We acquired the gifts either online or in person from Target, Walmart, and Toy's R Us.   

Our online items were purchased weeks ago and there was free shipping. We received the items within a couple of days. The deals were good. And, guess what we actually finished shopping the first weekend we went out to shop. Which is perfect! This never happens. Last year we almost got into those massive store brawls over this Frozen doll. It was ridiculous and not something we wanted to repeat this year.  By the time I ordered it online we couldn't get it delivered until Christmas day. 

We vowed for our own sanity and time that this would not happen this year. We planned ahead, found all their first choice toys and tah-dah, operation Team Gomez Christmas 2015, success. Ya'll I can't be on the news for some doll. Cause, I will throw a punch and I will be escorted out. Just sayin'! Haha.  

The list. The list of good gifts for siblings, items you can purchase for your kids or nieces and nephews or neighbors!

::Board games::

Our kids are finally at that age {4 almost 5 and 6 years old} where they can understand the concepts and play a good board game. Currently, we have UNO, Guess Who {with animal and veggie board options} and Boom Boom Balloon. UNO is so much fun for everyone. Guess Who is a riot, my kids are super competitive and Santiago has learned the art of cheating at games, not good! But, it's so funny. Boom Boom Balloon, if you have not played is the most fun and intense game ever.We give that a Team Gomez high five and recommend it. 

::Movies:: 

Our kids have a ton of movies which we watch 10{thousand} times a piece. But, now with Netflix, Red Box and YouTube we have bought fewer movies. We wait for birthdays and, of course, Christmas. We chose two new favorites, one which we watched at the movies and spilled our drink over, Jurassic World. Which if you like intense, scary movies with action and people being swallowed by large whale like things then yeah, this movie is for you. We loved the Jurassic Park series so this was a must. Our second choice was Inside Out, Camila loves this movie and watches this video incessantly. 

::Puzzles::

Puzzles are great, watching them put them together is pretty cool too. Some come with cute carrying totes and storage cases. Last year we got them each a puzzle with lunch boxes as cases, which was pretty useful. They have some with little purses or nice wooden boxes. These are good items, you can get them one for each child or one big puzzle for groups of 3 or more kids. I like getting them similar items so there isn't a fight over why someone received something different than the other. If you have 2 or more kids you might know what I am talking about! 

:: Books:: 

Books are great too. Either gift cards to Barnes and Noble, which we have done in the past for other people's kids. And, been thanked by the parents for not bringing them the usual. Some of our favorites are short, Bilingual, hardcover books like those of Lil'Libros! They have so many great cultural concepts and vibrant pictures that keep the kids attentive.  But, this can work similar to the puzzles, you can buy a book for each child or maybe a longer storybook for both to sit and read together.

:: Matching PJ's::

We have done matching PJ's in the past for my kids and nephew, best gift ever. It's useful and such a quick and easy gift to purchase. This year we are considering PJ's even for us. Who doesn't love a good set of comfy PJ's to lounge around the house in? I know I do.

::Arts and Crafts::

My kids have received this type of gift in the past, things like play-doh and different drawing or painting sets are good.  I don't love that, depending on what it is, they are not easy to clean up, but it does keep the kids busy. Plus with my kids in daycare they do a lot of this type of activity already so seeing drawing pads and paints at home is always a thrill for them. A kind of extension of what they have going on at school. It's a great way to practice their motor skills and while clean-up time isn't much fun for this Momma, the somewhat quiet time is great. Camila loves to write and draw and Santiago is learning to write more and more so they love pens, paper, and notepads. 

Hope this guide was helpful! Let is know your thoughts and feedback or tag us on Christmas day to see all the gifts you did purchase. I mean...that "Santa brought."

::LivingSocial:: Gifts made Easy #ad

                           ::Momma Disclosure:: This is a compensated post. All statements are my true and honest opinion. 

Whether we like it or not, the Holiday season is in full swing. This year we decided to start our Holiday shopping early and like many we did most of it online. It's so convenient and literally at the click of mouse, you can complete all your shopping for everyone in the family. While it's easy to shop for some people, it can be tricky when shopping for families or couples. Today I decided to partner up with LivingSocial a great site for all types of gifts that your family and friends can use year round! 

Let's begin, our top 10 items from LivingSocial that I feel a couple or family would love:

::Camping with Style:: 

We love camping. And, many in our family love it too. But, I found the best camping site for those of us who want to be outdoors but not so much. This is Glamping, or Glam camping like no other. Check out the site for all the details on this deal for camping on Lake Bastrop this December! We would love this gift, hint hint, but I know many in our family would too.

 https://www.livingsocial.com/escapes/properties/83423-luxury-weekend-glamping-on-lake-bastrop

::Overnight Stay in a Teepee:: 

Now, for the kid in you and for those with actual kids, ha. This Teepee stay would be the best adventure ever! I can already imagine my children having a blast and looking at the deal it would be very affordable for us as a family of 4. It's only about a 4 hour drive away and a great mini-vacation for us all. This is one we are definitely considering for ourselves. 

https://www.livingsocial.com/escapes/properties/73087-new-braunfels-area-cabin-or-teepee

::Local Family Activities:: 

Lego Fan Festival in Houston

For those families looking for some local fun. And, for those kids who are in love with the long time Lego craze. The Lego Fan festival in January here in Houston would be a great gift idea! You and your family can enjoy all the fun and never leave the city. My son loves Lego's so this is another we will definitely be looking into.  See the site for all the details. 

 https://www.livingsocial.com/events/1541934-ticket-to-brick-fest-live-lego-fan-festival

Museum of Natural Science in Houston

Another local favorite is the Museum district LivingSocial has a deal for the Museum of Natural Science. My children love Dinosaurs and learning about the history of our earth. This one is another fun idea to gift to our family and friends for their children. Learning and a fun interactive time is always time well spent.   

https://www.livingsocial.com/events/1512276-1-ticket-to-the-houston-museum-of-natural-science-permanent-exhibit-halls

::Couples Ideas::

Date Night 

Once we can settle on a babysitter my Hubby and I love date-night, I mean what parent doesn't!? Thanks to this deal with LivingSocial we can have a unique night out, spend some quality time together and learn new skills. Like Painting! This December we might have to try this one out. I have seen others go to this type of event and it always look like they have a blast. 

https://www.livingsocial.com/events/1437522-paint-nite-painting-event-at-local-pub-or-restaurant?append_ref_code=home_page_showcase_i0

Brunch for Two

Or, if you prefer some Jazz music and good food maybe this deal suites you more. Brunch for two at a local Houston restaurant. As self-proclaimed foodies my Husband and I are always seeking out new places to enjoy food. We also love music and great atmospheres, so this one seems like so much fun. But, LivingSocial has so many options, you are sure to find a deal that fits your taste, no pun intended.  Ha. 

https://www.livingsocial.com/deals/1523670-sunday-jazz-brunch-for-2-people

::Spa and Fitness::

A day at the Spa

You may want to give this to your wife or Momma for taking care of you all year, a nice relaxing day at the spa. Or, even to a couple for a romantic afternoon away from it all. Spa days sounds great no matter what time of the year. LivingSocial has many great options. After all our hard-work, Thanksgiving cooking and upcoming Holiday shopping we would all benefit from a spa day. 

https://www.livingsocial.com/cities/7-houston/health-and-beauty-coupons

Fitness Time

For those of us who might eat a little too much this Holiday season or who want to begin early on their New Year resolutions maybe some fitness deals are best! I for one will be hitting my boot-camp every chance I get after all the turkey this Thanksgiving. You can get your family and friends fit and healthy for this Holiday season. I personally love these fitness deals. 

https://www.livingsocial.com/cities/7-houston/fitness-deals

::Best Deals for the Dollar::

Under 50

Who can go wrong with good affordable gifts for everyone LivingSocial has many options under $50.00. You can give great gifts and save your wallet the extra pain. Check out all the options LivingSocial has for a good price.  https://www.livingsocial.com/gift-ideas/collections/gifts-under-50

::Food!::

Finally, food, need I say more!? Gifting food is always my favorite. I mean people have to eat right? What better way to save someone some time or money when they are in a hurry on a busy weekday night. This is another true favorite as a Momma who often has to find time to cook, eating out is easy and receiving gift cards or deal is the best.

    https://www.livingsocial.com/cities/7-houston/food-deals

There you are! 

Will you be gifting some of these great deals? Which are your favorites? 

{February} #BLOGLUV

I know that I say this often. But, it's true. Blogging has not only opened new doors and opportunities for me but also created long lasting and outstanding friendships.

When I first started Blogging my Hubby didn't believe that I had met local Bloggers with extraordinary stories or that I knew a Blogger from Hawaii who I talk to on a daily basis about everyday things.

I think we have always regarded "the internet" as a bad place to meet the wrong people but Blogging has helped me meet some pretty amazing women who not only have the same goals as me but who are also eager and excited to share their stories and open up their hearts! And, some have been ever so great to share their pointers and guide a "new" Blogger like myself!

With Valentine's Day around the corner a group of us got together and organized by our friends Xenia of Raised by Culture  and Ruby of G.U.B., we participated in a Valentine's Day Exchange! #BLOGLUV It helped us learn more about our friends who literally live all over the U.S.. My exchange package came from New Jersey all the way to Texas. I was so excited just to see our mail carrier come to the door with it!

The best surprise was that my Valentine was RUBY from G.U.B.! From the day I met Ruby something just clicked! {I know I sound like a total stalker!} But seriously... if you EVER get the chance to meet Ruby you know...it's an instant cheerful smile with a genuine shine and brightness about it and then it's her welcoming hugs and her ever so graceful ability to speak to the world with her purpose and goals, you can see them happening before your eyes! Her awesome-ness makes you feel like you belong. It was so important to me because I felt so undeserving and out of place at my first ever Bloggers Conference last year here in Houston but Ruby took me and a fellow local Blogger under her wing and didn't hesitate at all to clue us in on the specifics and Blogger Conference 101!

Thank you again Ruby, you have no idea what it has all meant to me! 

Again, my Hubby didn't believe that I knew a Blogger from Jersey much less a well known Blogger! But, it's true my Amiga Ruby has been a great friend to me!

And, my Valentine's Day gift was perfect, THANK YOU RUBY! You made my day, once more!!! I know we told each other what we wanted but it was so great to get a little something for myself on such a gloomy day here in Houston...it's been raining all weekend...

Here is what was inside my package:






By the way, I got a new "fancy" camera for Christmas and I am still learning to use it. But, I love it. Hope you enjoyed this gift exchange as much as I did!

Happy Valentine's Day Everyone from Momma of Dos to your loved ones!!!!

Now off to enjoy some tea in my new cup!!!!! FROM NEW JERSEY!!!! Mmmhmmm!