::Explore Houston:: Hiking Trails

Last year we took a couple of  road trips with the kids, we have grown to love these. The adventures are endless and the memories, forever priceless. One of our trips was a camping trip to Gardner State Park and the other was a weekend in San Antonio.

On these adventures we discovered, that my kids loved the outdoors, maps { cause it reminds them of Dora, GRACIAS DORA!} and trails! My Husband and I in an effort to keep this alive and thriving decided that we would find local Houston parks and trails to explore. There.are.so.many.

A couple of months ago the weather was amazing, nothing like this week where the rain just won't leave us alone. In those gorgeous days we ventured out. Today, I will show you a little  from our first Houston trail adventure as well as, share a little information about the park. If you are local or visiting, I highly suggest exploring the nature in our city, it's amazing ya'll.

The peace and family bonding it great too. 

::Terry Hersey Park and Trails::

The park is so BIG, it will take you at least 2-3 hours to explore it very well. We took a 4 hour hike that day, the kids slept all the way home. It has trails and interesting areas that will make you forget you live near the city. The park trails do cross under the freeway and intersect with high volume streets, but trust me, you will not even notice it. We went out on a Saturday afternoon. The bikers were in full gear so just stay clear of them and beware of there warnings "ON THE LEFT". Is their usual sign of, here I come, MOVE. 

While you learn the park lingo, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery. 

We parked at Memorial near Eldridge. And, on this afternoon we had a small picnic when we reached the reservoir at I10 & Eldridge. So, the walk is about 20 minutes out, we then climbed up the edge of the reservoir and collected rocks. Then back down to the trails and into the park area with the playground. Where my daughter randomly yelled out a cuss word and we decided it was time to go. Have I mentioned I have wild children? I do. You would think they grew up on a farm with no humans. 

Usually randomness completes our adventures. The park is filled with great picture op areas, as a Momma who always carries a camera this is an amazing place! 

I highly recommend Terry Hersey, you can explore it and find a new spot every time.  It might take hours, maybe even days, to complete it's trails. We have been back a couple of times since, for pictures and picnics.

You can follow our adventures daily on Instagram. 

Follow our Park series, by coming back next week and looking for a new post! 

::Wordless Wednesday Kinda:: Houston Zoo Edition

We had our first 2015 visit to the Houston Zoo. It was a bit crazy and not as well thought out as we would have wanted but guess what, we bought a membership! Hopefully our next visit will be more organized. In all we had a lot of fun, the kids enjoyed it so much and we will be obviously doing it all over again in a month  or so...only because a new exhibit opens then. 

Here are a few things to consider:

1. Arrive early, most of the feedings happen by 10 a.m. Plus I hear the animals are more active. 
2. Pack and bring your own food. While there are many options we found it so much easier to snack and move forward since we packed our lunches and snacks. 
3. Plan your visit. If you have not been before, it can be a lot to tackle in one day. Our kids were super eager so we were a bit all over the place. 
4. Bring a wagon or stroller. Very handy. 
5. Bring bathing suits and towels. There is a splash pad. We didn't get to do it this visit. 
6. Explore parking options. We parked in one of the medical buildings. I think we could have done better. 
7. Eat breakfast; I think if we would have eaten breakfast before we arrived at the zoo it would have been better. We ate while we were there and the kids were so eager to move on. It was a bit rushed. 
8. Pace yourself & take breaks. It will take you most of the day to get around, take pictures and explore. So take your time, rest and then enjoy... 
9. Carry plenty of water. It's just so important. 
10. Consider a membership, we usually travel with my parents, Sister and nephew, so it was a great option. much cheaper, and with great benefits. 

Now... ENJOY our mini-picture recap! 

#Insurgent ::Movie Pack Giveaway::

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

Seems that these days the "Woman Power" movies have me hooked. Of course! Who doesn't love women kicking butt and taking names? It truly inspires me. I too feel empowered to take over and overcome. So many out there but this new series has me intrigued. It’s time that women are represented in roles where we can show off not only that we can be beautiful women but that we are smart, leaders and strong. I think that Tris in the Divergent series embodies all of these qualities. Stepping outside of the cookie cutter manipulated community that she lives in Tris is now doing everything possible to save her family and herself. Filled with obstacles and complications she is determined to be the hero of her own story. I love it.

The new movie in this series is set to release on Friday March 20^th, but thanks to great Houston marketing company you and a guest can go watch the movie at a local pre-release!  Follow the Divergent series on Social Media and enter to win.  Follow Momma of Dos on Social Media not only to enter to win but to receive updates and new on this giveaway and others. 

::En Español::

THE DIVERGENT SERIES: INSURGENT aumenta las apuestas para Tris mientras busca aliados y respuestas en las ruinas de una Chicago en el futuro. Tris (Woodley) y Four (James) son ahora fugitivos y se ven perseguidos por Jeanine (Winslet), la líder de la élite de los Eruditos, que tienen una gran sed de poder. En una carrera contra el tiempo, deberán descubrir qué es lo la familia de Tris protegió con sus vidas, y por qué los líderes de Erudición harán cualquier cosa para detenerlos. Atormentada por las elecciones que tomó en el pasado pero desesperada por proteger a sus seres queridos, Tris, con Four a su lado, deberá enfrentar un desafío tras otro mientras descubren la verdad sobre el pasado y, en última instancia, sobre el futuro de su mundo.

La película de esta serie se estrena el dia viernes 20 de marzo, pero usted y un invitado puede asistir a un estreno antes del viernes aquí en Houston! Siga la serie de Divergent en las redes sociales y entre para ganar los boletos. Siga Momma of  Dos en las redes sociales no sólo para entrar para ganar sino para recibir actualizaciones y noticias nuevas en este sorteo y otros.

Official Website: http://www.thedivergentseries.com/ 

Official Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/TheDivergentSeries 

Official Twitter Page: https://twitter.com/DIVERGENT 

Official Instagram Account: www.instagram.com/thedivergentseries

Official Pinterest Page: www.pinterest.com/insurgentmovie

Follow on Snapchat: DivergentSeries

Hashtags: #Insurgent #InsurgentTrailer #DivergentFandom 

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::Blogger Bonanza:: The Woodlands Mom Expo

::Momma Disclosure:: { This is not a compensated post. I received complimentary pass for myself & my readers in collaboration with The Woodlands Mom Expo. All opinions and statements expressed below are my own and true and honest. }

Blogger Bonaza! Sounds like fun huh?! Well it will be. 

http://www.thewoodlandsmomexpo.com/show-schedule/

Are you looking for something new and fun to do in Houston next weekend, Feb 6-7? 

Well how about heading out to the Woodlands Mom Expo. On Saturday February 7th, you can  join myself and 3 other expert bloggers as we share how you too can become a blogger!! We will also be sharing other great tips on how you can start your blog, learn more about how you too can turn your blog into a business and fun details about our bloggy lives!

It will be an informational discussion panel which will be held on Saturday from 2-3 p.m. at the Woodlands Mom Expo. I will also be available to answer your questions and get to meet some of the best blog followers in town, MY MOMMA READERS! 

You don't have a ticket yet? Well then grab one right here and bring your Momma friends! There will be so many great sponsors and vendors that you can visit and learn more about. There will also be a lot of fun activities for the kids. 

So, don't wait and grab some of your BEST Momma friends, print your tickets and we will see you at the Woodlands Mom Expo you will not want to miss it! Can't wait to see you there!! 

::The BoxTrolls:: September 26th #losboxtrolls #ad

{::Momma of Dos:: This is not a compensated post. Informational Only.}

The days here in Houston have been rainy so today we have a post that will help you deal with rainy day blues!

It will also get your kids ready to watch the new sure to be hit movie, The BoxTrolls! My son is so excited for this movie, he watches the clips every time he can on YouTube!!!

This month is his birthday month so we promised to take him next week when it comes out, he is looking forward to it!! So, when I printed these fun activity sheets out he was eager to work on them. You too can download fun new posters, activity sheets and watch clips of the upcoming movie by visiting: http://www.theboxtrolls.com/

::Information provided by http://www.terryhines.com/ ::

THE BOXTROLLS, the family event movie from the creators of “Coraline” and “ParaNorman”, has debuted a behind the scenes look at the magic behind the creation of THE BOXTROLLS! THE BOXTROLLS, in theaters on September 26th,  tells the story of a community of quirky, mischievous creatures who have lovingly raised an orphaned human boy, Eggs. THE BOXTROLLS features the voices of Elle Fanning, Ben Kingsley, Isaac Hempstead-Wright and Tracy Morgan.

“Nature of Creation” Featurette — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gYFNsXlbVto&feature=youtu.be

THE BOXTROLLS releases in theaters on September 26!

Watch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z3eHd87dx6M

Visit: http://www.theboxtrolls.com/

Like: https://www.facebook.com/theboxtrolls

Follow: https://twitter.com/TheBoxtrolls

Follow: http://instagram.com/theboxtrolls# 

A family event movie from the creators of “Coraline” and “ParaNorman” that introduces audiences to a new breed of family – The Boxtrolls, a community of quirky, mischievous creatures who have lovingly raised an orphaned human boy named Eggs (voiced by Isaac Hempstead-Wright) in the amazing cavernous home they’ve built beneath the streets of Cheesebridge. When the town’s villain, Archibald Snatcher (Academy Award winner Ben Kingsley), comes up with a plot to get rid of the Boxtrolls, Eggs decides to venture above ground, “into the light,” where he meets and teams up with fabulously feisty Winnie (Elle Fanning). Together, they devise a daring plan to save Eggs’ family.

Un evento cinematográfico para toda la familia de los creadores de “Coraline” y “ParaNorman”, que le presenta a las audiencias a un nuevo tipo de familia: los Boxtrolls, una comunidad de criaturas estrafalarias y traviesas que han criado con amor a un niño humano huérfano llamado Eggs (con la voz de Isaac Hempstead-Wright) en la asombrosa casa cavernosa que han construido debajo de las calles de Cheesebridge. Cuando el villano del pueblo, Archibald Snatcher (el ganador del Premio de la Academia Ben Kingsley), propone un plan para eliminar a losBoxtrolls, Eggs decide aventurarse a la superficie, “para encontrar la luz”, y allí conoce y se hace amigo de la fabulosamente enérgica Winnie (Elle Fanning). Juntos, conciben un osado plan para salvar a la familia de Eggs.

:: 4th Annual Total Beauty Expo:: GIVEAWAY!!!

Every once in a while you meet amazing women who support you and on are on a similar mission as yours. This happened last month when I attended the Woman 2 Woman Empowerment Conference. Event organizer and so many of the attendees just opened their arms, hearts and lives to me and are really making an impact in my life. Since in that instance I was sponsored to attend, I now want to pay it forward and give some of my readers the opportunity to attend their next event.

        I have not 1 but 3 tickets to giveaway for their upcoming Total Beauty Expo in October! 

                                 

                                                       4th Annual Total Beauty Expo

                                             October 25th from 1-6pm (VIP 12-6pm)

                                                CWA Local 6222 Banquet Hall 

                                                                 Houston Texas

                               They have so many great features: 

                                                          A Pink Shoe Contest

                                                             Fashion Show

                                                               Workshops! 

                                                         and so much more.... 

                               

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:: Movie Fix:: #MommaApproved

::TMNT::
Did you grow up in the 90's? I kinda did, okay, I totally did! This past weekend I had a total flashback to about 8th grade when this came out:

We took our kids to watch the new movie this past weekend, really more so my son because my daughter is not a good movie-goer; she uses the bathroom about 4 times and talks the entire time. In the end I think my Husband and I enjoyed it more than they did! It was funny and such a great way to introduce a “classic” to a new generation! Cowabunga baby!!! 

We will definitely be buying the DVD, favorite scene anything Mikey was involved in he is HILARIOUS! Especially the elevator scene.... M.C. Mikey! Very family friendly. 

Have you seen it? What did you think? 

::When the Game Stands Tall:: This movie comes out today!!! I was invited to see it but wasn't able to make it! Hope to catch it soon, looks really good and so inspiring! I would think great beginning of the school year story for any football family out there.  "Inspired by a true story, When the Game Stands Tall tell the journey of legendary football coach Bob Ladouceur (Jim Caviezel), who took a high school football team from obscurity to a 151-game winning streak that shattered all records for any American sport."

::Cantinflas::  Comes out next Friday August 29th. I was invited to a pre-screening last week for this movie in association with Latina Bloggers Connect.

As a child I grew up watching Cantinflas, so I was very excited to watch this movie.  I thought it was great! Oscar Jaenada does a wonderful job of portraying such an amazingly talented and beloved Mexican actor/comedian. I think the movie captured the essence of who Mario Moreno was. I definitely LOVE the exposure this movie will give all of the upcoming Mexican actors. {FULL MOVIE REVIEW AND INTERVIEW WITH ACTOR OSCAR JAENADA NEXT FRIDAY!}

::Movies that we are looking forward ::

September:

::THE BOX TROLLS::  !!!

My son caught the commercial of this during another movie and he has been obsessed ever since! We can’t wait. Best part is it comes out during his Birthday month so he is so looking forward to turning 5! September 26th is it's release date. 

October:

::The Book of Life::

This movie caught my eye on Facebook... I think it will be a great movie to help further explain "El Dia de Los Muertos" to my children. We visit the Dia de Los Muertos Altars every year here in Houston so this will be perfect for our yearly lesson! 

This movie is going to be filled with amazing star voices such as; Channing Tatum, Zoe Saldana, Diego Luna and Christina Applegate. It is scheduled to be released on October 17, 2014.

November:

::The Hunger Games: Mockingjay - Part 1::

Set to release November 21^st, who isn't ready for another Katniss butt kicking adventure!? I know I am!

What about you, what are you watching in the theaters this weekend!!??

{La Pulga} #northsidehouston

So, let me keep it real for you. And, I mean real.

My parents are Mexican. So am I.

Ever since I can remember,especially from my memories living here in Houston, my parents have never been "fancy eaters". We have always been simple. And, yes we have always enjoyed the Pulga {or Flea Market}.

Here in Houston there is no doubt that one of the most aged flea markets is the "Airline Flea Market" which has many other names or references but that's how I know it. La Pulga de la Airline.

It's unique Mexican style Tianguis setup and authentic food, music and atmosphere really makes me feel comfortable and not quite in Mexico but at least close to it.

I have always loved Houston for this very reason, no matter how far we are from the Mexican border we somehow have managed to recreate many Mexican classics in a very "American" city. Places like the Mercado and the Panaderia are also some of my favorites also interestingly enough located on Airline.

Northside Houston is where I grew up, so I was no stranger to these places. Now that I am a adult with children of my own, we opted for living a bit outside of the city and in a more "rural" location. But, that doesn't keep us from our favorite places in town. We visit at least 2 or 3 times a month or as often as we visit my Mom and Dad at their home, which sometimes is every weekend.

My kids have been exposed to all types of food, places and people and they too  are no strangers to these where-abouts. We love it because while it's not fully authentic in location it's very similar and teaches our kids a lot about different Mexican traditions and really a lot about how my Hubby and I grew up.  

What about you? What are some favorite places that you feel are authentic to your roots and that you want your children to grow up with?

W2W Conference #w2wempowered #iwokeuplikethis

::Momma Disclosure:: {This is not a compensated post. I was invited to attend the Woman 2 Woman Empowerment Conference here in Houston by Total Beauty Ladies Events. All statements below and opinions are my own and are true and honest.}

When it comes to people, places and things; I am constantly seeking to be inspired, motivated and moved to action. In the same fashion I aspire to inspire, motivate and move others into action. Sometimes I succeed. Other times I realize, it’s just not up to me! If the person receiving is not receptive or open to change the way I see it, then they will remain and move at their own pace and I move on.

Destiny:

This past weekend I attended the Woman 2 Woman Empowerment Conference for the first time after connecting through YES, social medial with the amazing Shunte, and let me tell you amazing does not cover the entire description of who Shunte Davis-Gamble is! I am so happy that our paths crossed at this very moment in our lives. We have quickly gained an on-line and now in-person friendship, that I know will go far. Plus her personality just makes it so much easier to love her! 

Purpose:

If you know me, you know that I take it all in. No matter how interested or interesting I am still evaluating, dissecting and embracing the moment. Last week was a busy one for me. I wasn't sure if I would be "in the mood" for Saturday morning. But, seeing Shunte posts on FB and her daily enthusiasm, really pushed me out of bed and into the conference that morning. I am beyond glad that I made it.

I arrived and didn't know anyone, but felt comfortable. As I walked in I met Shunte, her smile, her warm and welcoming embrace and her words... Was it fun!?!? {She was asking me about the Beyonce and Jay-Z concert, I won the tickets through her group and the conference!} Immediately I felt amazing! I felt as if I belonged. 

I found a table in the breakfast area and yes, quickly made connections and friends. Shunte came in introduced herself...with her signature "HEY YAAAA'LLLL!!" She is a born natural. Her speaking and presence, so gentle yet so admirable and notable!

Then we transitioned into our first workshop, were we created our name tags and paper-bags to fill with daily affirmations for one another. A great exercise for a room filled with strong, confident Women. Mind you I didn't know Shunte personally before this day, when she came in and started to explain our task she stated that she was Teacher by day. It was at that point that everything made sense, it's evident in her actions that she was born to lead a room filled with people who are eager and willing to learn.

Who is Shunte, she is a petite woman with SO much personality, so much character and so much heart and passion. As she walked around explaining how we should label ourselves and our bags she was patient and concise about what she wanted us to do. Name our selves based on an adjective that best describes us. So easy, yet so difficult. Mine became Cheerful Connie. The ladies around me quickly became identifiable...Classy, Sexy, and Mighty.... these were just a few adjectives used. I loved them all.

Speakers:

And, as if one wonderful woman with a whole lot of power wasn't enough, my world quickly brighten as I had one of my personal "meet and greet goals" met.

I am big on volunteer work here in the Houston area. Since having my children I have limited it to a few events and organization a year. One that I do yearly is the HLSR, as a part of a committee we are often asked to make time to appear either on TV or at events. Well I usually opt for TV, and one place that we visit every year is the Debra Duncan show here in Houston. Every time I go I am in awe of the functions and how it all gets put together, mostly because of one special lady. She is bright and precise and very professional. To my surprise she also knows Shunte, so I was ecstatic when I recognized her as she got organized by the podium. Who is she?!?!

Alexis Herron, one of my personal favorites. Seeing her outside of TV land and hearing her speak was definitely the cherry on top for that morning. Her "I" affirmations of who she is and who we are as women; strong, confident and powerful, allowed me to realize that I had not fallen into my seat that morning by chance but by grace and yes...by God. She spoke to us about, reaffirming who we want to be and being who we say we are! She played THE song... you know... FLAWLESS... I woke up like this. And, by the end of her speech, I felt not only empowered and yes flawless but refreshed and happy to be who I am! If you have not heard her speak or you do not know her, I invite you to find her online and follow her!  I didn't miss the opportunity to tell her that I am a huge fan of her...... and I know that I met her for a reason....

Shana Naylor, the Real Single Mom's Club. As a blogger I am often added to groups or peoples personal pages and I become connected with different people. When I added Shana I knew she was a Realtor and we had Shunte in common I did my quick research and then added her to my FB page. So, when she came across the table at breakfast that morning handing out her card, I was happy to meet her in person. Then I realized she too was one of the speakers. And, even though at this point, I knew who she was and what she looked like in person, I didn't know her story. She spoke of divorce and how she gained an education with each relationship loss, which I think should be her book {#authorstatus Shana}. A story of triumph as a Single Momma out of what could not have turned out so well. Her ability to thrive despite her circumstances which for many Single Momma's would be inspirational to know how she did it. Seeing her daughter a soon to be college student, placed me in awe of their story.

Vendors, Awards and Panel ::During Lunch::
We enjoyed a fantastic and tasty lunch from Dinner for Two Catering. During lunch this set of ladies composed our discussion panel;

Dr. Shiree A. Berry, Shalanda Turner-Engineer & Fashion Blogger, Arnaecia Alridge-Marketing Entreprenuer, & the funny Rayla a Comedian and Business Owner.

Their insight, personalities and attitude towards life was wonderful. They did so well with one another and complimented each-other as they answered all of our questions. During this hour several ladies were recognized for their outstanding work in the community. It was great to be among the honorees for Woman on the Rise award, I am humbled and thankful! Then we mingled where I met Missy G., one of  the cute fashion bloggers in the group! We spoke to the vendors and took samples of products! My favorite booth was that of Origami Owl headed by Ms. LaMeka Washington. Then.....the dancing started and that's when the real fun began!

I just want to congratulate not just Shunte for her outstanding work leading this conference but also her parents, for supporting her. Above all for believing in their daughter and her vision. As a blogger I know what it's like to follow a path and a vision that very few are willing to walk along side you and that less understand... I loved this conference and what it stands for in the Houston Community!