::Mother's Day Letter:: To my Children

It's been a little quiet on the blog these days. It comes with good reason. Working on so many other things in my life right now. But, I wanted to share my Mother's Day reflection with you. 

Yesterday was a great day, lots of happiness and smiles, laughter, gifts and hugs and kisses for sure. There were also disagreements, arguing and feelings of discontent, but that doesn't take away from how great the day was. Because well, that's life right? Good and bad. We work through it. Everyday. Happily and with a grateful heart. 

As I prepared to start my day I thought about my kids. On mother's day. Truth is, for me every day has been mother's day for the last 7 1/2 years. Since my son was born. I love my kids. They drive me nuts, create chaos and also fill so many empty spaces in my heart that needed them. They have taught me so much about patience, and being happy and fulfilled by the small things in life, and simply enjoying life. 

Once you become an adult, with real life responsibilities; you know a 9-5, bills, college, husband/partner, coworkers, dramatic family experiences, illness, pursuing your passions, children of your own, etc. You tend to forget number one;  how to really enjoy yourself and number two, you take for granted the small things in life. At least that's what I've learned about myself as a Momma. I've become so busy "doing" and being an adult that some days I have tunnel vision and feel that there is only one path. This is not true. 

With that stated, I wrote the following: 

To my Children, Camila and Santiago; 

I want you both to grow up well. Motivated. Inspired and determined. I want you to be strong, courageous and bold. To know that elementary school, middle school, high school and even college are easy, it's life in general that I want you to succeed in. I want you to stand up for what you truly believe in, to always speak your mind no matter who it makes uncomfortable, even if it's yourself. I don't want you to be blind or naive about man-kind and people, to know that they can be evil, selfish and ill-intentioned. I want you to be aware and have your eyes and hearts wide open. 

To be open about the world around you but at the same time weary of others capabilities. Not everyone wants the best for you, and that's their problem not yours. I want you to help others but not be a push-over, like me. I want you to love others but never more than yourselves. I want you to know that YOU matter and can make a difference, only if you lead the way. You can't allow others to lead it for you. I want you to know, life is hard. But, if you set your mind to survive it, you can do it. I don't want you to give up on yourself.  

I want you to do everything you love, fully. I'm always the first to admit that I yell, I expect a lot from you both, I push you (and your Dad) to do more, only because I know you are more than capable of great things. I know that academics isn't for everyone but don't allow others to dictate what you can and cannot do. If you want to go to school and get a degree then do that. If you want to travel and be free then do that. If you want to open a bar and raise money for dog shelters, well do that too. But, do it well, go at it with true passion and dedication and succeed at it. 

A lot of people in our lives and family have sacrificed so much for us to be here. In the U.S., so be mindful and work hard! Your Dad and I, we went to college. Not just so that our parents could be proud but to set the example that it can be done. Yes, we want you to go to college and do well.  But, we know that's not for everyone. There are though options and other career training. Don't give up. Don't do nothing. 

Know that I love you NO MATTER what, or who you become. God is with you and I pray for your protection and happiness, daily, sometimes more than once in a day. Know that you already make me so proud. You are funny, you are smart, you are loving and caring. Above all you are LOVED, Blessed and Highly Favored and I pray you will be forever and ever. 

Love always, 

Your Momma

::chloe + isabel:: review

::Momma Disclosure:: I have been provided a product in exchange for this review. All opinions and statements are my own, true and honest opinions. 

A couple of months ago (I know, so behind these days) I was contacted by a local Momma friend about creating a post for her new jewelry en-devours. Of course I agreed, who doesn't love jewelry! I'm not huge on being "blinged" out all the time, I'm not Bey or JLo, haha. But, every once in a while a Momma likes to be fancy. Evelin met me and gifted me this gorgeous necklace. I loved it. It was flashy and I didn't think it was my style. But, once I was able to put it on with my everyday clothes, I fell in love with it. I even played with some different looks, I'm rarely one to dress up or wear makeup but this was fun! 

Information and how to obtain the necklace:

Style:  Art Deco Convertible Statement Necklace 

Website: https://www.chloeandisabel.com/boutique/evelinmartinez

IG: https://www.instagram.com/p/BQEL1yFg7oy/?taken-by=chloeandisabel.evelin

FB: https://www.facebook.com/ChloeandIsabelbyevelin/?__mref=message_bubble

Don't forget you can shop now for Mother's Day and/or any other occasion; birthday's, anniversary gifts, just-because gifts! 

And, about my Bidi-Bidi-Bom-Bom jewelry dish pictured below:

Handcrafted by Maura Hernandez

Website: http://maurahernandez.com/

The piece can be very versatile and you can dress it up any way you'd like, but I feel you can also wear it in a very casual way! As a busy Momma, I look for fun, easy looks I can run out of the house with whether I am going to work, school events, or just to run errands. See my looks below and let me know which is your favorite? 

One thing I am huge on are unique pieces and fashion jewelry. It's so much fun and much more affordable than most items you find in department stores.  I love the idea of "side hustles" and love to support Momma's who are trying to make it all work! Evelin is definitely a Momma who hustles, so I loved doing this mini-review for her. Chloe and Isabel is also a great company for stay-at-home Momma's extra income options, https://www.chloeandisabel.com/. 

And, their tagline speaks volumes... BE CREATIVE. BE CONFIDENT. BE YOU.  I live by this so much! Being Creative is my constant goal, and I feel that the closer you are to your truest self the more confident you become! This to me has all come with age, experience and lots of self-seeking as well as always evaluating my failures.  As I mentioned in my IG post today, failure isn't always a bad word and a lot of my success has come from trial and error...it's life! 

HAPPY MONDAY...AND HAPPY SHOPPING!!! 

::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). 

::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? 

::Momma's Day Brunch with Tabasco:: #SaborTabasco

::Momma Disclosure:: {This is a compensated post. In collaboration with Tabasco. All opinions and statements expressed below are my own and true and honest.}

As a Mexican Momma  I love the bold flavor and spicy goodness that Tabasco sauce adds to all my favorite dishes! I especially love it on my scrambled eggs and as topping to many of my favorite Mexican dishes. Did you know that Tabasco has seven great flavors to help you add spice to your homemade food?? There is Original Red Sauce, Green Jalapeño Sauce, Habanero Sauce and Chipotle Sauce. A delicious and new flavor to fit every member of the family and friends alike! This Momma's Day what will you be adding the taste of  Tabasco Sauce to?

Me I think I will create the Scrambled Egg Enfrijoladas from the Tabasco website. You too can create so many traditional favorites, all the recipes are found online on their site. 

                                          {Picture provided by PR company; recipe below.} 

Whether you are creating a special dish for that loved Momma in your life or just getting together with other Momma's let Tabasco be the added flavor to your day! 

Do you want to win this amazing Tabasco sauce caddie with all 7 flavors?! 

Enter below! 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Scrambled Egg Enfrijoladas

Makes 6 servings

Ingredients: 

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup chopped white onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups beans (cooked or canned, pinto or black)
• 2 teaspoons Tabasco Original Red Sauce
• 2 1/4 cups chicken stock, preferably homemade or reduced-sodium canned or boxed
• Salt to taste
• 10 eggs
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 12 corn tortillas

Garnish

• 1/2 cup Ranchero cheese, crumbled
• 1/2 cup Mexican crema
• 1/4 white onion, thinly sliced
• 1 or 2 avocados, sliced
• 1 (6-ounce) piece chorizo, crumbled into small pieces and well cooked (OPTIONAL)

Preparation: 

1. Heat oil in large frying pan. Add onion and garlic, and sauté for 5 minutes. Add beans, Tabasco Sauce, stock and salt. Cook another 5 minutes. Transfer to a blender jar and puree until smooth.
2. Cook scrambled eggs. Set aside.
3. Pour oil into a medium frying pan over medium-high heat. When hot, using tongs, quickly pass the tortillas through the hot oil to coat them. Drain on a paper towel.
4. Fill each tortilla with approximately 2 tablespoons of scrambled egg and tightly roll up. Place tortillas in a shallow serving dish and cover with bean sauce. Garnish with cheese, crema, onion, avocado and optional chorizo.

Feel free to share Tabasco with your friends and family via the following social media channels:

• Facebook: facebook.com/Tabasco
• Twitter: @TABASCO
• Pinterest: pinterest.com/tabasco
• Hashtag: #SaborTabasco

::Top 5:: Types of Gifts for Momma's #holidays2014

When I think about gifting to other Momma’s I think about things I would love to receive for myself here are my top 5 types of gifts for Momma’s:

1-Personalized gifts:

My friend Tracey from TeeWii recently launched a new shop Plush Design LA  

Their current feature is the Adventurer Set and the Adventur-ish case. 

The GLAMP pillowcase is $12 and the Mr. Outdoors/Mrs. Adventure set is $20.

Website: 

https://www.etsy.com/shop/PlushDesignLA

Social Media: 

https://www.facebook.com/plushdesignla

https://twitter.com/plushdesignla

http://instagram.com/plushdesignla/

I recently purchased a personalized item from Designed to Shine and I am so in love with the shop!

                                           {Picture from Designed to Shine Facebook page} 

Etsy Shop: 

https://www.etsy.com/shop/DesignedToShineAcc

Facebook: 

https://www.facebook.com/DesignedToShineAcc?ref=br_tf

2-Gift cards:

Sometimes people think it's not enough to just give a gift card but trust me as a Momma on a budget this is always welcome by me! Either to my favorite stores like Old Navy and Target or  ANY food place or coffee shop like Starbucks or Panera Bread.

3- A gift basket:

Another great personalized item are gift baskets. Super easy to create or you can also buy them already filled with great goodies! I know places like Kroger and Walmart have some pretty afforable ones! So many different gift baskets with tons of goodies; cookies, coffee, treats; anything fun and yummy is always great during the holiday's. 

4-Holiday Cash:

Who doesn't need some extra money especially after the Holiday’s! I would say that to me it’s the thought that counts, $10-25. Depending on whom the person is; I would gift a close Momma friend between $20-25 & a co-worker Momma friend between $10-20. I think it's a great gift! 

5-Self Love:

Anything that involves some me time is great like a massage or spa day ! Or maybe a gift card to her favorite nail shop or hairdresser, that way the Momma can have some alone time and de-stress from all the Holiday hustle and bustle! 

::TOP 5 HOLIDAY DRINKS:: #mexicanmomma

When I think of Christmas I think of warm memories and hot homemade chocolate and so many others! 

The kids and I  created our top 5 favorite Christmas drink list, these are listed in no particular order: 

1) Traditional American Hot Chocolate- My kids have newly discovered this with the tiny marshmallows! We love! 

2) Chai Tea Latte-I always love the cold because I can head to Starbucks for my favorite drink. I love the warm spice with milk and extra whip cream. You can also replicate at home. I have and it's so good too. 

3) Warm Apple Cider with red hots- A few years ago we discovered a live nativity scene at a church near our home and after each act they would serve the BEST warm apple cider with red hots in it, we were hooked. It's a Holiday favorite in our home. 

4) Chocolate Abuelita- My Momma has always made us chocolate Abuelita and of course it's a must in our home!! The warm comfort that reminds me of my childhood. Always an amazing feeling! 

5) Champurrado- ::not in picture:: When I was pregnant with my son I was in love with warm Champurrado from a local snack stand outside of a Fiesta here in town and at a restaurant called Gorditas Aguascalientes. I would make my Momma take me after work to get a cup almost everday, even if it was hot outside! Haha. 

What are some of your favorite Holiday drinks?