::Momma Podcast:: #InspiredSeries

It's 2018 Y'all!!! 

Did you miss me? Well, I am back. Sharing some fun ladies this week. Here we go. 

One of my favorite things to do is listen to Podcasts. I might have mentioned in the past that one of my favorites is THE MFCEO. Well, think of that but with MOMMAS! 

I started following and listening to Elle and Liz a few months ago when we met in a Facebook and Instagram group. Their conversations are SO fun, so real and so heart-warming. They have truly inspired me and moved me to tears with their shows. So, I decided to kick off the year by featuring them and their Mami podcast. (Links at the end of this post.) 

Hoping to one day follow in their podcaster footsteps... hello universe in 2018, te hablo a ti. 

:: About Oye Mami Hosts :: 

Hi! Our names are Elle Gutierrez & Liz Quirion, We are 36 & 32 yrs old and we are from New York City. Upper West Side and Brooklyn to be exact. Liz's parents were both born in the Dominican Republic and Elle's parents were born in the Dominican Republic and Ecuador. Liz is married and has three children, a 3-year-old son and (surprise) twin 2-year-old girls. Elle is married to her college sweetheart and has three children, two girls ages 10 and 9 and one 5-year-old son. 

:: Interview :: 

Tell me what is it that you are after when it comes to your podcast? What was your original goal? 

We wanted to give women like us a voice. The American Latina is a forgotten genre. Our audience loves Univision as much as ABC, the Latin Grammys as much as the VMAs, Biggie Smalls as much as Marc Anthony. This country is filled with women just like us who struggle with being the bridge between their Latino and American cultures. Our goal is to give these women a home.

Tell me what motivated you to start on this journey?

What motivated us was that during our weekly bochinche calls we would always have a story about someone pointing out how we weren't Latino or American enough. That's how this all started two outsiders rallying up other outsiders and becoming a movement.

Was was your plan of action?

Our first plan of action was to start our podcast off with a good foundation. We studied and learned for a year. We split responsibilities. One of us did all the tech and marketing research while the other listened to podcasts all day so that we could know what we did and didn't want to do. We also worked with our podcast spirit guide, Jackie MacDougall who is a TV & Digital Producer, Podcaster, Writer, and Media coach to help us kick off our podcast in seamless manner. 

How did you first get started and what was the most difficult part?

The most difficult part was going live and sharing our idea with whoever wanted to listen. We stalled so many times. Nothing was ever "right". The fear of vulnerability was our biggest obstacle. 

Did anyone help push you or inspired you to get here?

Elle: My husband. I am so grateful for his support and how he believes in my crazy ideas even more than I do. Also, Liz. When I called her with this idea she could have easily said, "Bish, you crazy" but instead she said, "Let's do this bish". 

 Liz: Elle inspired and pushed me to get here. My husband and family have also been so supportive in believing in our mission and pitching in to help with my three toddlers whenever I need it.

What has your progress been?

We set short term goals and surpassed them. Not to sound super cliche, but we are truly blessed that putting our hearts on our sleeves is being well received. It shows that this was needed. 

How are you keeping motivated to continue down this path?

What keeps us most motivated are our listeners. We had no idea what an impact our show would make in people's lives or how many women would connect with what we were going through. Men too! Whenever a listener slides up into our DM and says that we make them feel normal or that we get them or that we helped them get through a tough day gives us so much motivation to keep pushing. If you have listened to our episodes from the very beginning until now you will see how we held back more in the beginning and are now at a point where we say, "F-it, don't leave that on the cutting room floor because someone will connect". 

What advice do you have for others in your place?

Our advice would be to lead with your gut and work with your brain. Get ready to lose sleep, make mistakes, and get good sunglasses because the shade is real.

We all struggle daily with so many "self-issues"; what has been your favorite quote, book, movie, item, or website that has helped you keep strong and move forward?

Elle: For me and don't laugh it's DJ Khaled. His positivity is contagious. Whenever I feel overwhelmed I tune in to his snapchat story and feel like, if Asahd is a king, I'm a freaking king too. Liz even sent me a DJ Khaled book when I was in one of the lowest points in my life. She loves me. I also keep a mini notebook in my purse where I write my own personal quotes that pop into my head and reading those over inspire me. Now I sound like a low-key narcissist but seriously, re-reading those one liners that I came up with make me re-connect with those times. Some positive, some negative and they inspire me to keep moving forward and creating even more one liners. 

Liz: "It's never too late to be what you might have been" that's my favorite quote by George Eliot. I remember the first time I read that quote. I almost came to tears because I was at a point in my life where I was scared and then this quote popped up and I was like, THIS! THIS! THIS! It keeps me in check every time I think it's too late to accomplish my dreams. 

 

You can contact Elle and Liz (Oye Mami) via 

Website: https://oyemamishow.com/

Twitter: @OyeMamiShow 

Facebook: www.facebook.com/OyeMamiShow or

slide up in our DMs on Instagram: @OyeMamiShow

Yvette {Traveling Husband} #inspiredseries

Hello! My Name is Yvette, Wife to an amazing Hubby, of 6 years, and a Stay at Home Mom of 2 Little Ones.  My daughter(5) is a princess in every form.  She LOVES make up, dresses, heels and all things girly.  Lord Help Me!  :)   My son (2) is truly a boys boy.  He likes to play rough and usually ends up in trouble over it.  My kids are my world, but at times I would struggle with being at home and feeling like I wasn't contributing to the world.  I have a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration in Finance with experience in Accounting.  I was really good at it too, but that experience and degree didn't matter to my kids.  Its easy to get depressed and I always tried to look at the positive side of staying at home with my kids, but it was really hard.  My husband has a CRAZY schedule and we live 3 Hours away from our ENTIRE family, so I usually felt alone and became somewhat of a recluse.   

Starting a boutique was something that I wanted to do since I got pregnant with my daughter in 2009 but we travel for weeks, sometimes months, at a time so starting a brick and mortar boutique seemed really impractical.  After a lot of research, and getting denied by the city the year before, I got approved with a Home Occupancy Certificate.  I was finally able to open up an Online Children's Boutique.  It is the piece of the puzzle that I felt was missing.  Now I feel complete, I get to stay at home with my kids, teach them, play with them and raise them.  My husband never has to worry about taking my kids to any doctor's appointments and I don't have to worry about taking time off work when they are sick.  It is a win, win situation for everyone involved. 

http://roseandrhodesclothing.com/

     

When I was pregnant with my daughter we lived in New Mexico for 3 Months.  It wasn't so bad. 

Then, when I was pregnant with my son in 2012 we lived in Washington DC for 3 1/2 Months.  My daughter was 2 1/2 and we had no vehicle.  We had to walk EVERYWHERE and used the subway when we needed to.  The closest grocery store was about a mile away.  That was a long ways to waddle.  HAHA!  On the final day in DC, I had a scheduled Drs. appointment and ended up at the hospital.  I was 5 months pregnant and already contracting due to the walking and dehydration.  They gave me a shot to strengthen my sons lungs, put an IV for the dehydration and sent me on my way.  Then, when we arrived back home, we went straight to the hospital from the airport.  I spent the night and they gave me meds to prevent the contractions.  In the end, my son was born two days before his due date.  He is a VERY HEALTHY, VERY LOUD little boy.  I really think those shots to strengthen his lungs worked a little too well.  

We have done short stints of travel in California, Houston and the RGV.  Needless to say, we do A LOT of traveling, and with 2 toddlers its not always easy.  My kids are still small so they get impatient and sometimes don't understand that it takes a while to get to a destination.  We have done many things to try and get their minds off of a long trip.  If it is a road trip, we try to leave after lunch so the kids can take a nap on the road and it usually works out just fine.  We also bring movies with us on the road and if we are traveling by plane we make sure to bring snacks, toys and coloring books.  We do sometimes stay behind when my Hubby has a short trip.  Before he leaves, we have a conversation with our daughter so she can know her Daddy will be gone for a couple of days.  She usually says "ok" and "I'm gonna miss you, daddy".  I think it makes it easier on her to know what is going on.  Our son is still too small.  Every time he asks for his Daddy, I just tell him he's at work and he usually says "ok".  

The biggest challenge of having a traveling Hubby is probably having to stay at a hotel room.  My kids like to run and play, and they don't mean to be, but sometimes they are really loud.  The security at a hotel once came knocking because someone complained about the noise.  Obviously, at home they are used to being loud and no one getting after them over it.  I don't like to get after   them for playing but they do have to learn to be mindful of others.  Traveling is not always a horrible thing.  We LOVE that our little ones are able to see other cities, especially big cities.  My husband and I didn't have that privilege growing up so we try to do as much as we can, and see things that we wouldn't see in our small city.  

This time around we are celebrating our Thanksgiving away from our house.  Usually, my parents come over to our house and I make the turkey and my mom helps with making the sides.  This year, it will just be the 4 of us, but that doesn't bother me.  We celebrate Christmas for 3 Days. It starts with Christmas at our house, just the 4 of us, on the 23rd.  On Christmas Eve we Celebrate with my Husbands Family and the 25th we Celebrate at my Grandmas House (my dad's mom), then at my parents’ house in the evening.  Yes, we are all over the place at Christmas.  The kids love it because they get presents everywhere.  On the 26th we pack up and head home.  

It might sound crazy, but we are used to the travel. Most of the year, we are at home, bored out of our minds. My daughter starts school next August so our travel will slow down some. Until then,               we will see where the road takes us.    

I hope you have enjoyed reading a little about how I got started with the boutique and about our traveling experiences with 2 small children.  

Thank You to Connie Gomez at Momma of Dos for this opportunity.  

To contact me, email me at roseandrhodesclothing@yahoo.com or message me on Facebook and Instagram at Rose and Rhodes Clothing 

http://roseandrhodesclothing.com/

                 

         

::Date-Night Tuesday:: #makeupmonday

If you know me, you know that I am not much of a make-up kinda Momma. At all. Ever. I am more of a "let's get dressed and out the door before we regret this" kinda person. When I first had my children I would ruin my possible days of being out and about by stressing over how "perfect" we all had to look. Reality quickly set in as toddler-land grew and these days, we get it done, no matter what we look like. I realized that my kids and I will never please anyone with our "perfect" appearances. Therefore, we are who are and we attempt to step out in style every once in a while but for the most part we are a normal, everyday Mexican looking family. We are okay with this, really! 

This past Friday the Hubby and I decided to have date-night for a friends 50th birthday dinner. My Momma was going to come over after work and help us out with the kids. She is the best Mexican GranMa ever, she did my laundry and cleaned my kitchen by the time we got back. She arrived at my house that night and I had not had a chance to get the kids dinner, so I ran out to the grocery store. In thinking of getting ready for that night I remembered that I have a 3 year old daughter who thinks she works for M-A-C at the mall. Needless to say, I no longer own eye shadow brushes, lipstick or mascara. 

While at the grocery store that night I decided to buy some new make-up, yes grocery store! Kroger to be exact, I know some fancy make-up lady is pulling her hair out right now. But, I think I did pretty good and I only paid about $14. I am a pretty practical Momma and very low-maintenance. I think this is the first mascara and lipstick I buy in about 3 years.

I bought the following:

Eyeshadow Brushes (Kroger brand) $5.99
Mascara (Cover Girl) $3.99
Lipstick/Lipgloss (Cover Girl) $3.49

and this was the result; probably NOT the best picture of me that night but it's all I have:

What about you? Where do you shop for make-up and what does your make-up bag look like?

::Healthy Me:: #MommaFitness

In 2012 I went through a lot. I had postpartum depression almost a year after my daughter was born.

It was so evident. 

On my drive to work. I would cry. On my drive home. I would cry. While I was at work. I cried. Nothing seemed good. Everything was wrong. I accused my Husband of not being a good enough Husband. I didn't sleep or slept too much. I was sad. I was depressed. A lot. All the time, for months.

I went to therapy all Summer that year. For 4 months, I was seeing a Psychologist. 

And, you know what she taught me and what I learned?

How to deal with my depression. Not how to cure it but how to manage everyday life through it and despite of it. There was no real cure for my kind of "crazy".

Honestly. It worked.

Talking to that person who was on the outside looking in; into my work life, into my Marriage and into my family as a unit was indeed relief. I was able to freely express to her what was going on. I never felt judged and I never felt like I didn't trust her.

That same year in September I had a panic attack. I quit my job and made changes. In 2013 my resolution was to take more care of ME. As a Woman, as a Wife, as  Momma. Me. I made a great effort. I know I succeed in some ways. But, this year I want to make a BIGGER AND BETTER effort!

So, here are 5 things I will do this year to ensure that I take care of ME:

1.) Exercise MORE : It's been my stress reliever for MONTHS now. I feel good and happy after I run, walk, Zumba or do Insanity! I went to the gym for a whole month and I loved it! I will start back up in February. It's a great way to feel confident and good about myself, my health and my well being.

2.) Create more ME time: I am not one to sit around and do nothing. Never have been but it's SO needed sometimes. Just forget about work, forget about the mess, and just relax and enjoy. I don't do enough. But, I was watching American Idol this week and I just sat. Didn't care about the mess the kids were making or what kind of mess my Hubby was making in the kitchen while cooking. I just sat.

3.) Schedule Date Nights with my Hubby: Now I say schedule because finding a baby sitter is like pulling teeth. A long drawn out process that no one wants to do, HA! So, the Hubby and I will have our first date this Saturday and as the year goes by we will continue our resolution from last year to have and make more alone time. We deserve it.

4.) Have Girl's Night Out more often:  I love my Momma friends and must stay connected to relate-able, wonderful women who do it all. So that I can learn to be a little better at what I do. My Momma friends inspire me and allow me to be ME. There is no judgment and we love to share, never compare. I get great advice and words of comfort. I am reassured and refreshed with their sincere love and honest opinions. Plus they help remind me of my goals as a Momma and a Wife but more importantly as a friend.

5.) Volunteer more! One of my favorite things to do is Volunteer work, there is something about helping other that makes my heart happy and give me pure joy. It's something I have done since High School and in College it was a bigger reward as I grew and matured. Giving, humbles us and creates a healthy sense of self. I love being involved an a part of my community and making a difference in any way possible! Since my children were born I have limited my Volunteer work to once or twice a year but this year I want to up that and even get my family involved! I think it will be awesome for all of us!!

As Wives and Momma's so many depend on us and look up to us, the only way we can ensure that we will be able to be there for others in a healthy and sane manner is by taking care of ourselves. At almost 33 years old my lessons have all been learned too well. There are plenty of things still to be learned and worked on.

But, I take it one day at a time!

What about you? What are you doing this year to take care of YOU?!

DO YOU FOLLOW US? You totally should :) 
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{Perspective} #BEConference

3 weeks ago now, I went to Blog Elevated, met some pretty amazing and driven Latinas as well as reconnected with some very familiar faces! {Shout out to my Houston Mom's Blog Contributors; didn't get pictures with you ladies!!}

On the morning of September 20th I stepped into a conference room and opened my ears and heart to what was to come. Our Keynote speaker that morning stated, that most of us would NOT do what was necessary to propel forward. I don't know John Saddington and he doesn't know me other than the brief "you are awesome john" and his "thank you" on Twitter, but if he knew me he would know that you really can't tell me that I won't do what is necessary to propel forward.

You see my whole life has been created on actions. I am kind of a busy body. When I wasn't trying to work or go to school, I was out looking for places to volunteer, when I was all booked I went out to seek my faith and my purpose. Early on in life I decided number one I wouldn't be a statistic, because my 5th grade teacher told me I would be {more on that later} and number DOS, I wouldn't be stuck doing what everyone else is/was doing.

With my drive to move forward; I graduated college seeking a career, I have definitely been there and done that in corporate America.

Then I went on to bigger and better ventures and guess what I became a Momma and since I am a kind of an ambitious person I had two children within 18 month of each-other and now I am here. With a Blog that started as a family sharing and let me tell you about our crazy little lives which I think has evolved into a Blog about parenting and our culture along with some of my faith and daily seeking to be a better person.

I don't have as big of a  following as John has for his blogs and fan pages,yet, but I know that those that do follow me have been supportive and awesome!

Perspective. 

This word has been  burned into my brain since Blog Elevated and I don't think it will escape until I change the way others look not only at the word but at my Blog as a whole and ME, in this space. 

The question is, how? How am I going to change? How am I going to propel forward? 

Be different. And, rise above the crowd. I don't know, yet but you better trust that little Mexican girl is working on it.

John Saddington stated that morning "Maximize your God given uniqueness." Such a simple but powerful statement to me. His tips and pointers that morning definitely called out to me and I am on the MOVE and my goal is to DO more!

For More Blog Elevated Pictures look for me on Instagram @mommaofdos !! 

{Inspired} Momma with a Mission

Have you ever had to write about yourself?

As easy as it sounds, it’s not very easy.  I know once I get started, I won’t be able to stop but it’s always the getting started part that gets me stuck! Bare with me as I spill my heart out and let you in on what I’m all about. So… Hi there! I’m Darlene. I was born on Groundhog’s Day back in 1986, which makes me 27-and a half years old. Born and raised in Southern California and still here… (writers block occurring, uh-oh…)

Okay, so… What else? Well… I’m a lot of things so I’ll start with my most important and go from there. As corny as this sounds, I was able to marry my best friend from high school. It’s definitely been a blessing because I always thought I’d be the type to never get married or have kids. I envisioned myself as being this extremely successful, independent woman that didn’t have to worry about anyone else but herself. And then, just like that… BOOM! 

I fell in love! Hahaha. 

Totally turned my life around. 

I always tell Alex, he was the only exception. He was the only guy I would instantly dismiss my selfish dreams for without a thought. And, I’m very glad I did because there’s no one out there that could fill his spot. No one. We had been friends all through out high school and I would tell him about my boyfriends, he’d tell me about his girlfriends, we’d talk about our problems, complain about homework, talk all night long about serious stuff and just all the other things you talk about with your best friend. But, what really drew us closer was all that we shared in common, which was our taste in music and humor. I knew I was crazy about him a year before we ever stepped beyond friendship, but he had his own thing going on at the moment and I wasn't going to dare tell him I liked him until it was the right time. Low and behold, our Senior year was approaching it's end, we were talking on the phone while we played our latest downloaded playlist, which happened to be a mix of R&B Slow jams, mainly lovey-dovey music (all obvious! lol). 

Suddenly, the entire mood totally changed and I could sense the conversation was steering somewhere new for us. We finally mustered up the courage to tell each other how we felt over AIM (AOL Instant Messenger). I remember sitting on the edge of my seat waiting for him to respond. Hahaha. From that moment on, we were crazy about each other, inseparable, head over heels in love… Everything moved fast, we told each other we loved one another the night we shared our first kiss, we got to experience our Senor Prom together and enjoyed life after high school, going out, exploring our independence, living together, going to college, turning life into adventures… and then the biggest adventure approached us~ Parenthood! BOOM! (There goes that boom again.) 

This time it was an extremely exciting boom! The day I found out I was pregnant, it was like a light switch turned on in my heart that I had never turned on before. It was a very exciting day filled with nervous jitters and happiness.

We were way into it. Each week we’d read up on our daughter’s developmental stage and what was forming than. Month-by-month, we’d take pictures and get more excited as the bump grew, started prepping our home for our baby girl that was soon to arrive. Life was going perfect for us... 

Or so we thought, with our naive sense, we never even thought about complications being a possibility, so you know what was coming next… BOOM! BOOM!! BOOM!!! 

Emergency C-Section, overly tensed nerves and 100% pure fright, and then life at that particular moment really threw us a curve-ball. More like, a curve-ball that went too curvy and ended up hitting us. And now this time, the BOOM hit us where it would leave us, in pain and forever sore. 

Our lives would forever change.

{Come back tomorrow to read the rest of Darlene's Story.....}

{Vacation Mode} Summer 2013

Do you often find that coming back from vacation or getting back into a routine after a long time away from it to be a little well, difficult?!

So, we got back from vacation almost 3 weeks ago and we still couldn't manage to get it together;until this weekend! I think the 3 day weekend allowed for that extra time needed to adjust. We are still working on schedules, between being on vacation and being sick timing is off.



Here are FIVE things that just had me feeling overwhelmed and well, a little off:

1) Laundry; I could't manage to get it under control with Dos toddlers who are constantly changing and between the Hubby and I and our work clothes and home clothes. I had to finally just wash, wash, wash...and then fold and put it all away in 2 days! It took a lot  but it's finally done!

2) Dishes; we often find ourselves using disposable dishes and still constantly filling the dishwasher or hand washing dishes. Again, I got home one afternoon and washed dishes until I couldn't wash dishes anymore...I did a double dose; ran the dish washer and hand washed as may dishes as I could! Finally getting the job done.

3) Unpacking! Yes, it had been almost 3 weeks and our suitcases were still sitting in our bedroom with some of our stuff still in them. The day{s} that I did laundry I finished emptying them and put them back in the garage! Until our next little getaway....

4) Getting Organized! So, last week I heard some good advice and I can't get it out of my head; Do one thing tonight that will make your morning easier! Last night, I set aside the kids clothes for today and I made sure that the kitchen and living room were clean. It's not something I usually get to do because I run off to bath time and then bed time, usually falling asleep before I can get organized. But, I think this is something I need to keep going.

5) Schedules; being a Blogger {and working outside the home} a schedule is really a blurred line... I Blog when my kids fall asleep but it's getting them to bed while my light is still on and the clickity-clack of my keyboard is going off that's a challenge. Usually we try to be in bed between 9 and 10:30pm. It's a little late but it works for us. Thankfully when the lights go out the kids fall asleep but it's those afternoon/nights when our schedule is super busy or I have too may things to do for the next day that our times are off but we try.

What kind of things keep you organized and going, or ready for the next day?

In our home we take it one day at a time because every day brings a new challenge... but we try to  be as prepared as possible! Un dia a la vez....  

Inspired. {Traveling Hubby}

{::Momma Note:: This is a series that I created in hopes of inspiring other Momma's in Houston to share their stories and connect with Momma's just like them. I have known Karen for about 2 years now, her and her family NEVER cease to amaze me. Their faith and what God has done and continues to do for them, just reminds me how GREAT life is and how awesome it is to count our Blessings and be happy! Enjoy!!}

Hello! 

My Name is Karen. 

I am from Houston. I am Salvadorian American. I am married and have 3 beautiful kids Noah (5) Emma (3) Aaron (1) and One the way. Yes, I am a busy mom!

My husband and I have been married for 8 years. We married at 18 and three years later started having kids. You know once you start the fun doesn't stop. My husband was born with a retinal disease. It’s a degenerative retinal disease and according to doctors he will eventually lose his eye sight completely. We decided to make the most of our lives and have kids early so he could enjoy every moment before his vision worsened.

He started at the bottom working in a warehouse counting nuts and bolts. Little by little he moved his way up. Every new position, every promotion is such a victory to us because we know the odds we stand against. He got a promotion as an engineering draftsmen and I cannot explain how proud I was of him. How far he had come despite the circumstances. Then shortly after that he was offered an awesome position as a Sales/Engineering coordinator for Mexico operations. I’m his number one fan and was ecstatic about the new position. Then I realized that coordinating for Mexico operations probably meant traveling to Mexico!! I wasn't too sure about that aspect of the job but nothing was mentioned so I figured maybe I was wrong. 

He was only two weeks into the new position, when he tells me He has to go to Mexico for two weeks!! Not days but weeks!! I’m pregnant with the fourth and at that time I was in major morning sickness mode! More like all day sickness. I tried not to panic but it was hard not to when hubby and I are joined at the hip! Well, the day came and he was off for two weeks. That first day was the longest day of my life! I did not know what to do with myself. Nightfall was the worst, the kids were constantly asking for him and when was he going to come home. The two weeks did not fly by. Thank goodness for face time! I really think that helped the kids cope. They got to see him every night and tell him about their day. If not I think they would have felt it way more. It was the highlight of my day.  

As our routine goes I kept us busy and tried to not be home around the time he usually came home because it made evenings hard and long. We enjoyed doing the things we usually don’t get to do. We visited friends and family all over the city. We got to discover new parks. We learned that the library is a great place to spend many hours. The pool became our oasis. I was able to bond with my kids more than ever. It was hard by the end of the two weeks since it was just me with the kids 24 hrs. a day. No little breaks here and there, but I am thankful I had so many friends checking up on me. Cheering me on and welcoming us to their homes especially on the weekends when I felt the loneliest. Every day I received a text from many friends making sure I was ok. Especially the ones with traveling hubbys! 

The biggest challenge is the loneliness and distance. Knowing that at 5 o clock he won’t be coming through our front door ready to hear our stories. The biggest blessing is my husband being able to experience things that we never imagined were going to be possible. My children being able to see how amazing their dad is. How strong their mom is. And the souvenirs are pretty sweet too! As of now He will be traveling maybe one more time before the end of the year. For another two weeks. Rumor has it next year will be a busy year, lots of traveling. I know I can do it all over again. God provided me with so much strength the first time and I know he will continue to do so. I think it will get easier. 

For someone just starting this journey as a wife of a traveling hubby I would say, you can do it! Keep busy and enjoy it! Discover new things around you. Time will pass. It’s OK to get lonely and cry. I did all the time, but most importantly is to have a great support system. Our Motto in our home is “we walk by faith, not by sight” I think this verse has really narrated our lives from the beginning. 

Faith will take you to promised lands. We are loving every minute of our new adventure.

{If you wish to contact Karen and learn more about her family please email her at kdcarrasco3@gmail.com}

My #CascadePlatinum #sponsored

{Momma Disclosure: I participated in a campaign on behalf of Mom Central Consulting for Cascade. I received a product sample to facilitate my review and a promotional item as a thank you for participating.}

One of the least favorite chores in our home is washing dishes. We are always trying to figure out shortcuts or something that will work better and faster than the last time. Which is why when we received the new Cascade Platinum Pacs I was excited. I will admit, I wasn't sure that such tiny pacs would get the job done.

I was pleased to see all of my dishes looking clean and shiny after the  first time using it. I also didn't have to deal with the residue that regular dish detergents leave behind. 

Usually we have to rinse very dirty dishes with soap and water before putting them in the dishwasher. With the Cascade Platinum Pacs, I rinsed all my dishes once with warm water only and then put them in the dishwasher. The results were great. I definitely recommend the Cascade Platinum Pacs for your daily dish washing routine.

The Cascade Platinum Pacs definitely deliver the most powerful cleaning action due to their advanced triple action recipe. I immediately noticed the new spot-free sparkle that my old dishes gained. The pacs are affordable and lasted twice as long as our powdered detergent usually does. 

I can't wait to try some of the other scents and products such as:
{Product information provided by Mom Central Consulting}
• Cascade© Complete© Pacs
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Developing Self-Worth {Alone/Momma Time}

As a Momma we put our blood, sweat and tears into everything that we do. Our families are our motivation, our inspiration and the reasons why we wake up everyday and do it all over again. Trust me, I know. I have met many Momma's in my lifetime and I have had extensive conversations about how they get things done and how they make life happen. They, we, all deserve a break. 

I often had a feeling of guilt and selfishness. I didn't want to go out and have "fun" alone because I was doing it without my family. Until I realized how important it is to have alone time. To have your own time. Away from the every day chaos and tantrums. Truth is, no matter how much or how little you think you do it's a lot more than you give  yourself credit for. A lot more. All of the time. 24/7. Not sure how my Momma did it. But, these days family and work stress and  no down time in between makes for a very cranky Momma.

My Momma often says; "Yo lo hacia todo sola, y con tres!" I feel bad for being so weak and for being so needy. But, the truth is, that times have changed. The pressures of having a professional and accomplished career along with the "perfect" family is just plain out overwhelming at times. I am not afraid to admit it, times get tough. As time has progressed and situations become more than we can handle, my Hubby and I have agreed that we both need alone time. 

Because, this is not just about Momma, Daddy needs time away from it all too. And honestly, if it makes for a happier and more peaceful home then we are all for it. Just like we believe in date nights as a couple, we also think that some alone time is more than necessary. 

I love meeting up with my girlfriends on a weekday evening and breaking away from routine, it's a healthy way of gaining a sense of self. I feel refreshed if I can get a little break. Or, maybe I can get away and get my toes done, some pampering and relaxation is also welcomed. 

Don't get me wrong, not complaining or trying to escape from reality. I love my family and I love my children.   It's just that like with any job it always changes your perspective when you can take a break, stand back and look at the bigger picture. And, the Adult/Momma conversation and sharing of stories, experiences and advice is an added plus. Therapeutic, if you will. 

{Jesse y Joy Meet and Greet} #Downy #LatinosImparables

{Momma Disclosure: This is not a compensated post but Downy & the #LatinoImparales Concert series provided me with two tickets and a meet and greet pass for the Jesse y Joy concert. We were also given two t-shirts. The review was not required and the statements below are my true and honest opinion. }

{Picture courtesy of Jesse y Joy; Latinos Imparables Meet and Greet Host}

Last week I had the opportunity to attend a House of Blue concert here in Houston. The Hubby and I took it as an opportunity to have a date night. It was much needed. All thanks to Downy who sponsored the Latinos Imaprables concert series, for Jesse y Joy and the very talented La Santa Cecilia. Thank you again DOWNY & #LatinoImparables for the Invite and Meet and Greet pass. It definitely made my month, which is nice since this is my Birthday month!

{Picture taken by Susy Barbosa of Houston, Texas}

The night was filled with great music and an enthusiastic Latino crowd of all ages. I loved listening to La Santa Cecilia, the lead singer Marisoul has a very unique voice and is so graceful and sweet.  I fell in love with the sounds of the accordion, the Mexican in me comes out and I just had to dance to their cumbia rendition. Reminds me of my valley days back home in South Texas. There is something about an accordion that just gives you an overall good feeling and happy feet if you will.

                                      {Picture taken by Susy Barbosa of Houston,Texas}


                                         {Picture taken by Susy Barbosa of Houston,Texas}

After the crowd did a little dancing and the excitement had grown, the headliners came on. Jesse y Joy, they were amazing. Listening to their absolute hits like “Espacio Sideral” and “Corre” live, was definitely a fun experience. Joy is beautiful and they were so sweet when we met them. They thanked us for coming out and we got a sweet little t-shirt.  I am too big for mine. Ha. My kids quickly pulled them on when we got home though so problem solved.

                                         {Picture taken by Susy Barbosa of Houston,Texas}


                                        {Picture taken by Susy Barbosa of Houston,Texas}


                                      {Picture taken by Susy Barbosa of Houston,Texas, In picture above}

I personally believe that Downy made the perfect combination and that this concert series has been a huge success not only because of the artist but because of all the special attention given to the fans.

Have you been to any fun concerts this month?

Inspired. {Local Blogger}

When I started Blogging I had no idea what being a Blogger was, and I definitely didn't know about the Latinos that were so immersed in such an amazing community. I had been Blogging since 2008 but it wasn't until last year that I started to see Blogging in a different light. I used to Blog to share my everyday happenings as a Wife and Employee, then as a Pregnant Wife and Employee, then as a first time Momma, and finally as a Momma of Dos. 

Last year I had the opportunity to attend my first ever Blogger Conference here in Houston and the doors that it has opened as well as the AH-MA-ZING people that I have met has changed my views not only about my own Blog and personal journey but about the Latino Blogging Community as a whole! 

I am HUGE on locals. I love to know that everyday women and men who live here in Houston are Blogging not just to make a personal difference but to make a difference in our community. 

I seek daily inspiration and I have created this mini-series "Inspired." in hopes of inspiring others. 

Today's feature is a Local Blogger {Independent Mami} Q & A: 

 

Hi! My Name is Alba from Independentmami.net, I am 34 yrs old (turning the dreaded 35 this yr) and I am from El Salvador. I am married. I have 2 kids: MJ 14 and Lil Bit 16 months.

How long have you been Blogging? I have been blogging since 2008 but never full time like other bloggers out there.  For me it is just an outlet, I have fun, but when the fun stops I can turn it off.

How did you first get started and what was the most difficult part?  Blogging seemed perfect for me back then.  I was looking for an outlet, a place to have a voice, never thought I would really have much response or influence at all.  The most difficult part was opening up and letting go.  Anything on the internet is no longer yours and that was scary, and it still is.

Tell me what is it that you are after/what were your original goals for your Blog?  I wish I could turn this into a business where I did not have to go to my 8-5 Corporate America job.  

Have you met those goals or gone beyond your expectations?  I have yet to meet that goal but blogging has taken me beyond my initial expectations and who knows where it is taking me.

Tell me what motivates you to continue Blogging?  The opportunity and possibilities are what keep looking for more.

What is your usual plan of action for Blogging?  There is no set plan.  I do not follow a calendar or plan too much ahead.

Did anyone help push you or inspire you to get here?  At first the Walmart 11 moms were the ones who inspired me, then meeting a great group of Latina bloggers really inspired me to believe that I wasn't alone out there.  In our Latin culture anything out of the norm it taboo, you just don't do it.  You are crazy.  Call me crazy then because after meeting these ladies the more I got inspired.  Ana Flores, Rory from MamaContemporanea, and Sylvia from Mama Latina tips are great women who have helped me in one way or another.  They continue to inspired me and others.  

What advice do you have for others in your place? Or for someone who wants to start Blogging?  Advice hmmm...Do what works for you!  You will not become a millionaire entrepreneur from blogging from one day to another.  Some are successful and some aren't.  You get what you give.  This is a full time job and it is a real world you have to deal with out there.  Sometimes people are nice or not, willing to help or not, or embracing you to the community or not liking that you are coming into their territory.   

We all struggle daily with so many personal and daily stress; what has been your favorite quote, book, movie, item, or website that has helped you keep strong and move forward?  My motto is Live Life don't let life live you.  I love my family and that is my priority.  God, family and then work....it just works for me.

Please feel free to contact Alba via Email, FB or Twitter:

madeguevara@gmail.com

www.facebook.com/independentmami.albagarza

@independentmami 

And don't forget to visit her Blog: www.independentmami.net

{Momma Note} If you would like to nominate someone for the "Inspired" series, please contact me for details!!! ::mommaofdos@gmail.com:: Also, Momma of Dos will be featured on another Local Blogger's Blog on the 23rd, Wait for it...... 

Top 5 favorite activities to keep a Toddler busy!

{Indoors} 

I haven't been a Stay@HomeMomma for long! But, I will be the first to admit, it's been a difficult transition to make but I am finally getting the hang of it all. 

One thing that I struggled with was keeping my Dos {Two} Toddlers busy! Busy so that they can use up their brain and physical energy and not drive me bonkers! 

The last few months have been cold which has been my other challenge! 

Here are my TOP 5 Favorite Indoor Activities:

{Finger Painting} 

Yes, it will get messy and yes, you will need to plan to do a lot of cleaning afterward, but it's fun their creations are awesome and a great insight into their little magical growing brains! The best part is asking them afterward, what is that? The answers are the best! 

Here are some of Santi's creations! {one thing you should know about Santiago is he has a very active and wild imagination.. his pretend play sometimes goes above and beyond anything we can think of and he is quick to improvise...he has made his Lil'Sister catch on to this and she too runs wild..it's so much fun to see.}

{Puzzles & Coloring Books}

Another fun and easy indoor activities includes puzzles and colors! You can't go wrong with word building or alphabet puzzles you are slowly teaching your kids some pretty basic vocabulary and/or numbers. You can't go wrong with these.... And, who doesn't like to color, if my kids are eating the crayons they are coloring and it keeps them pretty busy! Be prepared for coloring on the walls, floors and tables though... we have proof of our kids creative mind in the hallway, in the bathroom and on our kitchen table. No worries, crayon washes out... the memories they are building will last a life time.... 

{Pretend Play}

The kids have their rooms and living room as their toy/play area. Nothing is really off limits and  there are no real restrictions when it comes to how they play or where they play. YES we stay away from dangerous objects and chemicals, but they are pretty much allowed to play all over the house... yes it's tiring, yes it's never ending..but my kids will only be this old for so long... and when I go back to work they will have to be limited to the pretend play at school and I really don't mind the mess, until company comes over then I run to clean it all up! 

My kids are also very gender neutral, Santi plays with Cami's toys and Cami plays with Santi's toys. Distinctions are only made to assure that Camila gets her fair share of toys! Ha. They are allowed to explore and ask endless questions... I try to answer them all the best way possible... It's fun to see their reactions and to hear their questions.

{Reading}

Our home library is not very extensive but we enjoy those few books that we have and we are yet to try story time at a Public Library or Book Store, I know my children very well, their attention span and ability to get wild in public. For now we will stick to our at home reading time and I know that they are capturing lots of words and a lot of their imagination from them. I think we are doing pretty good and in the mean time I will try to expand our selection...

{Movie Time}

This is probably my favorite activity throughout the day... MOVIE TIME! I get to sit for at least half an hour until one of the kids gets bored... and if I am lucky, one of the two, or BOTH of the kids will fall asleep and I get to really rest, only for a little while. Otherwise it's fun to share a spot on the couch with the kids and just sit quietly after a long day. Santiago is better these days at watching movies, or Netflix shows. Cami is still working on her attention span. She'd rather be chatting away about anything really.





{Soon....Outdoor Activities}