What am I going to tell my Daughter about love.....

What am I going to tell my Daughter about love now that I have "failed" at it? 

Sometimes I think back at the last year and just wish that I had that one piece of advice from my mom that would answer all my questions. It still hasn’t come. And, I’m not sure it ever will. And, it’s ok. But, I need to ask myself what I’m going to tell my daughter about love and relationships, marriage, self-love, growing-up and being your own lunch date.

I want her to know that her true love should be herself. That she should love and accept herself above all else. She shouldn’t expect anybody or "someone" to fill those gaps or those empty spaces. She should want to be her own lunch date every day. She should grow mentally, spiritually and emotionally every day on her own. She doesn’t need anyone’s approval or to approve of her. She should know that love is great but only when you know that it should be mutual, supportive and freeing. 

She doesn’t need a knight in shining armor to come and save her, she should have already saved herself. She should be brave and strong and know that sometimes love isn't immediate or automatic. She should be patient but know when to move on and move forward. Love, as much as you'd like it to be, isn't easy, it’s a complicated feeling and not everybody will be able to see her true value and worth. I don’t want her to look for love or think that she has to wait for it I want her to go about her life and know that love will find her.  When the time is right.... 

I want her to be independent and her own person. Much like she is now. I want her to be herself. Never having to worry about or having to apologize for who she is. Always embracing her unique features and ways, her beauty and her intelligence. Always being herself no matter how "extra" and out there she is, she is who she is, and no one can change her. 

I want her to know that love can change and evolve. I want her to know that I didn’t really fail at love because I have known love in so many forms and most importantly because I have her and her brother who both came from a place of love and I know what love can be. I haven't failed at love because I have been loved and have loved. I haven't failed at love because I have learned to love myself more and more these days. 

I don't ever want her to apologize for knowing what she wants and being strong-willed. I want her to know that she can have what she wants, not only because she's stubborn but persistent. My daughter is already becoming this strong independent girl, I want to fuel all of these feelings constantly.

I want her to know that "failing" at love is also acceptable. No one is perfect. It's not required and life goes on. 

I am going to tell my Daughter that love is within her and that even when you don't have anyone to love, life goes on because loving ourselves is always the best option. I want to tell her that love is amazing and she should strive to be the most loving even in the absence of love from the outside world.   

I want to tell her that she is love and that I love her.... that's what I will tell her about love... 

She is writing her own love story and that's all that matters. 

:: Faith and Motherhood:: with James Avery #MyJamesAvery

::Momma Disclosure:: This is a sponsored post in collaboration with James Avery, all opinions are my own. 

In September 2009, I had my Son, Santiago and 10 1/2 months later in July of 2010, I found out I was pregnant again this time with a Daughter, Camila. By March of 2011, I unexpectedly became a Momma of Dos. Being a mother isn't always an easy title to take on. I have had some very trying moments in the last almost 9 years but there is one thing I always find comfort in, my faith. Having faith that my direction as a mother is right, not always perfect or at all what I expected, but just right for me.  Along the way, I have learned many lessons of self-love as a Momma, patience and unconditional love towards my children. Not everyone walks the same journey into motherhood, it's easier for some more than others. Regardless of all the struggles, I wouldn't change the experience for the world. 

While motherhood isn't always an easy journey, it's a rewarding one. When I was asked to select two charms from James Avery Mother's Day collection, the first two that stood out to me were that of the Virgen de Guadalupe who has always been one of the biggest signs of faith in my life. I grew up Catholic and visiting many shrines in Mexico. La Virgen was always one of the saints that I prayed to the most, and still do. Her story of love and compassion towards a poor Mexican Campesino is one that always touches my heart so much. And the second charm was the Motherhood charm, which reminds me of the path I have been placed. One of great responsibility and love toward two tiny human beings. It reminds me of how much I should protect my children daily and remind them of how much I will always love them. 

I love James Avery current promotional offer where you can purchase two charms and receive a free bracelet, (or necklace up to a $70.00 value) This offer ends on May 29th so you can select to buy that special Mom in your life a new set of charms and necklace or maybe your favorite graduate a bracelet with some commemorative charms of their achievements since May is also graduation season!  

I love their jewelry because it's so versatile and I can wear it with any of my outfits which even for special occasions are usually very casual. Seen below is my new bracelet with my charms, which I was able to just clasp on and can change out whenever I want since my bracelet has an open clasp to hook the charms onto! 

Visit your nearest James Avery location and find out more about the offer details::HERE::  

::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!!! 

::3 Things I've Learned Since Becoming a Mom to Three:: Guest Blogger

Today on the blog we have one of my favorite Guest Bloggers, Bailey of Everyday with Bay! Enjoy.
-----

So 3's a crowd huh? Or at least 3 kids is to most people! I just don't get it. Nor do I want to! The way most people have a negative outlook on families with 3 kids is something that has frustrated me for awhile now! I can't tell you how many people told us to stop when we had "the perfect family" with one boy & one girl!  I get it, that may be perfect for some but that wasn't perfect for us and that's okay! My 3 kids are my world and I think it's so crucial to do what you feel is best for you & your family! I've always wanted 4 babies and some part of me still does, but my hubs does not so we have 3 and whatever happens I was made to be the mama of these 3 babes!

::No Light at End of the Tunnel::

This post came to me the other night as I did chores and tried to summon the strength to get them all done. Hope it helps in whatever stage of childhood you are in.

------

In those moments right before you are about to lose your shit. You think. This too shall pass, right!?

As I wipe pee off my toilet seat and floor for what seems like the millionth time today and I pick playdoh pieces off my bare feet. The exhaustion kicks in but the determination lingers. Determined to tame these wild children of mine; their giggles and Christian music play {yes this potty-mouth family listens to Christian music} in the background. My nerves ease and my frustration gone. I am living in these moments  of  chaos and messiness. You know those moments all too well? The "half" moments; of things making it halfway to the toy bin, halfway to their room, halfway to the trash and of course halfway in the toilet. Hence, the pee wiping.  

And, still no matter what they are happy, those two little ones that put up with my extra loud voice and sometimes witness the tears. Their love is endless y'all. And, in that moment, I see a light at the end of the tunnel that wasn't there before. And, I have peace. I have love and joy. Always. Deep in my heart no matter what the sorrows are or what obstacles we meet, they bring me true joy and peace. No matter how many times I have to wipe the pee off the toilet seat or how much playdoh sticks to the floor. I am living in these moments that will never come back. And, the frustration is gone. 

Then hope kicks in, hope that your kids will grow up to be appreciative, hard working and loving. The hope that they will be a better person than you and achieve far more than you. The hope that they will not fear or suffer the things you did. Faith. Faith that they will have happy fulfilled lives with the best blessings that they surely deserve. That in 20 years they will remember all the moments you lived together. Moments of joy, sacrifice, and peace.

As Momma's we all live in these moments, whether we publicize it or not, we are all in that same boat of days when you don't see a light at the end of the tunnel and could decide that you can't anymore. But, somehow with short rests and time, strength is renewed, and we do it all over again the next day. 

Momma, you are strong, you CAN do this. Wipe that pee off the floor and move forward... because I promise you, this too shall pass. You can either sit and cry over the moments of frustration, which sometimes are needed, or you can learn to embrace it all and love every moment you are living in. It's not always easy and it is VERY much easier said than done, but if this unorganized working Momma of Dos can do it, you can too!  

Just a little piece of my heart on this Tuesday morning.... 

::Momma's Day Series 2016:: Roxy's Story

::Momma of Dos Guest Blogger Post:: 

Please note that this post was written by a guest blogger in collaboration with Momma of Dos and as part of a current mini-series. Please feel free to contact each writer individually for further information about their blog.

I am Roxy Rodriguez-Becker and I currently live in SW Houston with my husband, 2 dogs, 1 cat, and our first baby on the way! I taught middle school math for almost ten years and currently teach online. My husband is also a math teacher, so at least our little girl will have plenty of help in that subject. I used to play roller derby and am trying to stay relatively fit during this pregnancy (running, walking, modified crossfit).

Daniel and I decided to grow our little family in the Fall of 2015. He was surprised that I was on board with the idea because when we were married a few years ago I was perfectly happy with just our fur babies. We are lucky things came together and are flowing so smoothly. Everyone, I mean *everyone* thought we were having a boy. Our reveal was so much fun, I even tricked Daniel. A girl is a beautiful surprise and we couldn't be more excited.

You can follow Roxy on this new journey to mommahood on:

http://www.grrfeisty.com/

http://www.twitter.com/grrrfeisty

https://www.instagram.com/grrfeisty/

https://www.facebook.com/grrfeisty

::Momma's Day Series 2016:: P's Story

::Momma of Dos Guest Blogger Post:: 

Please note that this post was written by a guest blogger in collaboration with Momma of Dos and as part of a current mini-series. Please feel free to contact each writer individually for further information about their blog.

Here's my story...

My name is Priscilla, but I go by P. I am 33 years old and from a small town in Southern California, but feel like a southern girl at heart ;) I've been married to my hubby for almost 11 years and we have two beautiful children, Jase who is 2 1/2 years old and Savannah who is 5 months old. Before getting pregnant, I struggled with infertility for 7 years. My struggle was due to a toxic relationship with diet and exercise that ultimately caused my reproductive system to shut down. It wasn't until I learned what it meant to live a truly healthy lifestyle that I got pregnant with both of my children naturally. It's because of my journey that I have become and Health & Fitness Coach in hopes of helping & inspiring others to learn how to live a truly healthy & happy life!

How old were you when you first became a Momma?  I was 31 years old when I had my son.

Was it expected? With my first, it had been a VERY long cycle and I had given up. Fully expecting to get my period that morning, I had this feeling I needed to take a test...I was shocked to see 2 pink lines! A day I will never forget. With my second I had no clue I could be pregnant, I had just gone off birth control 6 weeks prior and we hadn't started trying yet. 3 days late and I figure something was up...instantly 2 pink lines!!

Did your pregnancy/ies go well? I was VERY sick during both pregnancies and my first was considered high risk. I had a hard time gaining weight and felt like a stranger in my own body. This made me sad since getting pregnant was something I dreamed of for a long time, but finally accepted that it was just how my body responds to being pregnant.

Was your pregnancy what you expected? Nope! Not at all lol! I was expecting to feel amazing and be able to eat anything I wanted haha 

Did your delivery go well? Both of my deliveries, however, were AMAZING!! The two best days of my life and something I will miss forever. They are moments I wish I could go back to over and over again...

Was your delivery what you expected? They were both better than expected!! A true blessing!

How was your first year? My first year was amazing, to wake up that morning and actually have a little one to cuddle and celebrate with is something I will never forget. I cried tears of joy that night knowing how lucky I am!!

Was it all that you expected? Yes! Absolutely! And I had my own mother here to celebrate which made it all that more amazing!!

What advice do you have for others new Momma's? That time goes SO quick! When the hard days come, and they will, just know that it's only a phase. Focus on the good and remember to soak it all in.

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? The book Pretty Happy by Kate Hudson is AMAZING! One I think all mommas should read.

Contact "P": Absolutely! My email is findingpurehappiness@gmail.com, 

FB is www.facebook.com/FindingPureHappiness &

IG is Finding_Pure_Happiness

:: Momma's Day Series 2016:: Val's Story

::Momma of Dos Guest Blogger Post:: 

Please note that this post was written by a guest blogger in collaboration with Momma of Dos and as part of a current mini-series. Please feel free to contact each writer individually for further information about their blog.

My name is Val and I am a 35-year old wife, the lucky mom of a princess named Aly, and a native Houstonian. Also, a full-time working mom as well as a blogger at Val Around Town. I am truly grateful for all the blessings in my life especially being able to become a mom. Mother’s Day is right around the corner and I feel extremely fortunate to have my little one. Until it actually happened, I never knew if it was possible and here’s why.

I am a childhood cancer survivor. Not only did I have cancer but it was in the lining of the bladder and uterus (sarcoma botryoides). At only two years old (the age of my daughter now), I went through two years of chemotherapy, surgeries, and radiation to battle this disease. I was very young, but the chance to bear children was considered very slim because you are born with all of your eggs and radiation treatments can affect fertility in many ways.

I always knew I wanted to be a mom (if it was meant to be), though the number of children I wanted to have decreased as I got older (from 10 to 2 to 1, lol). My husband and I had been married a couple of years and we decided to leave it up to destiny. I didn’t even realize I was expecting until my husband begged me to take a pregnancy test because of major fatigue, he said he just knew. I was almost 8 weeks when we found out and given my background was really scared and thankful at the same time.

My pregnancy was not easy and nothing like I had imagined. I thought I would be glowing, eating ice cream with pickles, and loving the feeling of my baby inside of me. That was far from the truth! I was put on partial bed rest at 9 weeks and full at mid-term. I also had complications given my history and one of them was Placenta Previa. Being pregnant for me consisted of swollen feet the size of bricks, heartburn the entire time, and cabin fever. Even though it was rough, it was only 38 weeks of my life and worth every moment even though it didn’t seem like it at the time!

One great benefit about having a C-section is that you have a scheduled date and time to deliver. I went into the hospital, got prepped, and after entering the delivery room had my child in less than 10 minutes. My in-laws had gone downstairs to get coffee and missed my hubby taking Aly to the nursery, it was that quick! The recovery, on the other hand, was quite the contrary.

The first year of motherhood can be challenging. They say the days are long but the years are short and this is SO TRUE! I had a major surgery, had been on bed rest almost 6 months, and gained 41 pounds (Aly was 5lbs when she was born). It was an adjustment for my muscles to be up and walking around again (no joke). Not to mention, trying to live on zero sleep, picking up the baby with the pain of surgery, trying to squeeze in showers, and attempting to produce milk. In the first year, you do what you can to make it through but not to worry, there is a light at the end of the tunnel.

If I could give any advice to new moms it would be this:

• Remember the days will be long but they won’t last forever.
• Take all the help you can get from relatives and friends.
• You will never have everything done so enjoy some moments with your baby even if the house is a mess.
• Meet other new moms- I joined a mom group (this is a great place to ask questions and hear stories and similar situations> it’s like a mini support group and you will need it).
• Don’t pass judgment on other moms- we are all trying to make it work, what works for you may not for someone else.

Being a mom can be a tiring job but also the most rewarding experience ever. We are in the terrible twos right now so some days are “Mommy I love you to the moon and back” and others are me trying to pick up my screaming toddler from the grocery store floor. Although my pregnancy and the process of giving and birth were not easy, I truly understand Aly was a MIRACLE and I am blessed to have her in my life. My family and life would not be complete without her and there is a “new definition” of love greater than anything I have ever felt! Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms out there!

::Momma's Day Series 2016:: Alicia's Story

::Momma of Dos Guest Blogger Post:: 

Please note that this post was written by a guest blogger in collaboration with Momma of Dos and as part of a current mini-series. Please feel free to contact each writer individually for further information about their blog.

Hello, Fellow Mommas! 

I’m Alicia, I’m 40 years young. I was born in Houston Texas on July 29, 1975, at Jefferson Davis Hospital on warm, summer afternoon. I’ve been married for 15 years to my love Rusk Elatassi, we met when I was a graduate student at St. Thomas and he was a senior. We have two boys Alexander (Alex) who is 13 and Maksim (Max) who is 8.  

I’m the oldest of four to Alicia and Jose Araujo, as the oldest I’m bossy and authoritative yet super protective of my siblings and my parents.  I hold loyalty above all virtues and am fiercely protective of my family. You mess with them, I will roar and I will bite!  Lol!! 

I went to Jeff Davis High School in the Near Northside and graduated in 1993, my neighborhood was lively and fun and at times dangerous. My house was next to a bar that had the best Tejano music jukebox and that became my nighttime lullaby, the borrachos were a sad side show.

I had a beautiful upbringing on 1816 Chapman, there was music, dancing and carne asada every Sunday.  My mom was a stage mom before you heard of Dance Moms, she’d make our folklorico dresses from scraps and do our chongo with lots of “Dippity Do” Gel and tons of AquaNet Hairspray.  My dad drove us kids to performances, it was lots of fun! 

Upon graduation, I went to St. Thomas University and became a teacher at the ripe old age of 21. 

I was 27 when I had my Alex, Rusk and I had been married two years and we discussed having kids early because his parents are a little older than most and because my mom had just finished her battle with breast cancer.  I understood that time doesn’t wait for sickness and health, I also knew that having babies while you’re young gives us the best quality in terms of eggs and life in the womb.   We got pregnant the first month we threw caution to the wind. The getting pregnant part was easy it was my pregnancy that was difficult.  From week 8, I suffered from Hyperemesis, a condition where you vomit incessantly and become dehydrated.  I spent a few days with IV when I was around 11-20 weeks along, I was miserable and at times wondered if maybe I didn't want to be pregnant anymore. 

My sickness played mind games with me, depression seemed inevitable. Thankfully I had an amazing support system in my husband, my family, and my in-laws.  Since I couldn't stand strong smells, I couldn't cook and my angel Mother-in-Law took over for me. My mom gave every possible “remedio” in the world, nothing helped all I could do is stick it out till the end. Thankfully on March 11, 2003, I gave birth by C-section to a robust chunky baby boy who made it all worthwhile.  Four and half years later I experienced an even worse pregnancy, the morning sickness started earlier and lasted longer.

It took me a least two years to get over the traumas of my pregnancies. 

Finally....MOTHERHOOD.... 

1. How was your first year?

My first year of mommyhood was ok, easy, I had a lot of support from my in- laws and my family.  I’m grateful that everyone jumped in to help me with the baby, my husband is an only child so my mother in law spoiled me by taking the baby when I needed a break.  She had all the time and desire to take over for me when I was needing to go back to work.  I never got any judgment from her or my mother, they knew me well enough to know that I needed for my own sanity to be back at work ASAP.  After my Max was born I was definitely much more carefree and this baby was much easier to manage, to this day this little boy is an easy loving kid. 

2. Was it all that you expected? 

I expected that it would be rough the first year. I knew that there would be no sleep but I expected that.  I learned pretty quickly that my Alex was a needy baby, and I kept him at my bedside all night, thus it was hard for him to sleep by himself.  It was a tough transition for both of us, we wouldn't sleep and I couldn't let him go.  The second time around I placed the baby straight away in the crib. He adjusted fast and so did I. I breastfed both boys but not for long, I wanted my breasts back! 

3. What advice do you have for other new Mommas? 

I  always tell new mommas that they should trust their momma instincts.  That although we can read every book about parenting in the world, only YOU know what is best for your baby.  You are allowed to not follow every single piece of advice, you are allowed to be cranky and tired.  I tell young moms that they should find the support of someone when they feel like they are going to lose their mind.  Give dad responsibilities and don’t take it all on yourself, he needs the opportunity to be a dad. Don’t go nuts because he didn’t  change the baby on “time”, because he missed a bottle, trust that he’s the dad and he can take care of his baby too!

4. 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: 

I have a daily struggle with anxiety.  I have managed this by exercising and listening to my SiriusXM satellite radio.  I listen to shows that make me laugh and make me think. I love to challenge conventional wisdom and when others defy expectations I love to hear about that. My anxiety can be paralyzing and I’m quite proud that I’ve never taken a pill for it, it goes back to my mindset and how I learn to manage my emotions with humor and satire. Books like the Andrew Carnegie memoir and traveling reminds me that life is good and my issues are small compared to the world.  

I learned a mothering lesson in the least place I expected it..in the hills of Peru.  Rusk and I were traveling to Machu Picchu, I noticed how the Pacha Mamas carried their babies on their back everywhere they went.  Those toddlers were the happiest babies I had ever seen.  I realized that this American idea of detaching from your kids to build independence was ridiculous, these children seemed happy and mama didn’t follow a set of rules, she did what came natural to her. She fed and nurtured her baby on her own terms, without a medical book and benchmarks. I came back a different mother, I let my boys roam and cuddle on their own terms. I swore to myself that I would follow my own set of rules for mothering, that I wasn’t going to be a helicopter mom or a soccer mom or any other label mom.  

I was simply going to be  Alex and Max’s mom, that’s all!

Contact Alicia: 

Yes! I want to hear from other mommies!

FB Alicia Araujo-Elatassi

aliciaelatassi@gmail.com

@aliciathinkgirl

::Momma's Day Series 2016:: Lauren's Story

::Momma of Dos Guest Blogger Post:: 

Please note that this post was written by a guest blogger in collaboration with Momma of Dos and as part of a current mini-series. Please feel free to contact each writer individually for further information about their blog.

Hello, my name  is Lauren, I'm 29 yrs old, and I'm from Houston. I'm married to an amazing guy, and I'm a proud mom to a handsome little guy who was born September 5, 2014. His name is Jonathan but we call him JC for short, or baby boy, and when I was pregnant with him his daddy and I would call him "turtle". 

On April 22nd, I turned 30 and was actually looking forward to it, and can't wait to see what's in store for me. Beside that I have been a wife for almost 8 years this November, and I'm a proud mom, first timer and a boy mom at that. I'm also a stay at home wife and mommy and when I'm not busy with my boys I take some time for myself and work on my blog, Wiferella to Boymom, as well as crafts and trying new things. Hobby lobby and Pinterest are my best friends! 

How old were you when you first became a Momma? 28 

Was it expected? Not at all as I was told I would need help with getting pregnant after suffering from a miscarriage but here I am now blessed with my miracle baby. 

Did your pregnancy go well? OMG, totally thankful for a great pregnancy after getting past the morning sickness.

Was your pregnancy what you expected? Not at all, I was scared in the beginning due to what happen the first time, morning sickness was a pain, and I had a cyst; thankfully it didn't cause any problems. 

Did your delivery go well? I had to be induced almost a week after his due date. The beginning was great but towards the end everything got scary. Thankfully, the end results for him and I came out great due to an emergency C-section.

Was your delivery what you expected? Nope! Scary moments we had but so worth it.

How was your first year? OMG, it has been the best and even more so as I'm a stay at home mommy and wife. At times, it can be rough but at night when I lay my head I'm thankful for the memories that we made that day, and on to the next day. 

Was it all that you expected? Nope darn hormones had me scared and thinking I couldn't do it by myself while my husband is working, but here we are 19 months in and I'm balancing life great!

What advice do you have for other new Mommas? You can do it, don't ever doubt yourself. There are times it will get rough, and when it does pop open a bottle of wine take a hot bath and think about the good and will out do the bad. 

We all struggle daily with so many self-issues; what have been some of yours and your advice?  Weight and it goes up and down as well as I love food and sweets. At the end, I have noticed that weight loss will happen eventually and it won't happen overnight. With that being said there is a Rainbow waiting for you after a storm. 

Contact Lauren: Yes, I would for you to follow my journey on my blog at http://wiferellatoboymom.blogspot.com/?m=0 and Facebook blog page at https://m.facebook.com/Wiferella-to-BoyMom-986568011378780/

Can't wait to have you follow my blog!