::Texas Conference for Women:: Prudential #OwnMyFuture

::Momma Disclosure:: This is part of a sponsored collaboration with Prudential and DimeMedia. However, all opinions expressed are my own. 

This year I had the amazing opportunity to attend the Texas Conference for Women which is held in Austin each year. I was in a "dual role" as I was not only a Social Media Roundtable speaker but also as a sponsored Prudential representative. The experience as a whole was very unique for me this year. I have attended the Texas Conference for Women in the past and their a message and what they represent for women not just in Texas but all over the US is I feel very important, powerful and empowering. It empowers especially Momma’s like myself who have a full-time career and who also pursue "side-hustles" or  "side gig", as we call them. 

Of course, partnering with Prudential meant thinking about my finances, which is a good thing trust me. It meant really thinking about the messages that are sent to not just the women in our lives but ourselves and how we can own our future as financially successful women.

I have to admit I’ve worked my whole entire life since I was in my teens and money has always been something that I knew I would have to work for. Everyday. But, just like I worked hard and I spent hard. Sadly, that’s exactly how I spent a big part of my teenage years and most of my 20's, singlehood and no kids made that easy. But fast-forward 15 plus years and now as a Momma, it's kind of hard to go without a real money plan, because of well; gas, food, daycare, food, diapers, etc. 

Photo credit: @texinmiami

When I met my husband he was very much about his credit score, owning a car, owning his own home, having a savings account, just about anything that I wasn’t he was. He was in his 20's, and already very financially responsible. We were raised completely different and now that we’re married adults with kids we totally see where balance is needed and we realize that we really need to educate our children about finances and being responsible and wise about their money. We, of course, instill in them that an education would be your first and foremost source of income because having an education leads to a career that is stable and brings in a good income. That's not to say that along the way some challenges and/or obstacles might come up. And, that sometimes no matter how much you plan or you think you have your finances in order sometimes life, well, happens! 

In those small but very worrisome moments where you think that maybe you should’ve planned or thought more about my finances is where partners like Prudential come in. They have trained advisors and the right tools or resources to help you plan, prepare and establish financial freedom. We can be part of this process and walk hand-in-hand with an advisor that will allow us to develop a plan that works for us and is tailored to our needs. Which is why I love Prudential and how they can assist with this roadmap... into your financial freedom. 

I've been ready to own my future, now I just need a little-added guidance... Gracias Prudential! 

Texas Conference for Women #BuildingWomenRelationships

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

Sisterhood. Innovative. Empowering. Powerful. Exciting. Educational. Equality. Motivating. And, Inspiring. Those are all the words that come to mind now that I have attended the Texas Conference for Women. Imagine the largest platform and facility for networking; as well as a place where you can build new lasting friendships or partnerships. Women of all walks of life attend and the connections made are amazing. I personally had a chance to get to know a local blogger, Author and entrepreneur the lovely Sharon of The Zapata Group and the Bitchy Business Briefs, a little better. We drove to Austin together and shared a hotel room, what better way to get up close and personal real fast! Sharon is an intelligent and strong woman. Her go-getter personality is very inspiring. I love meeting women like her.


One of the best parts was getting to see our San Antonio Blogging Sisters; Melanie of Que Means What and Michelle of Family Love in my City, Veronica of Not a Girly Gurl, Silvia of Cocina Heritage, Christina of The Social Butterfly Gal, and Debbie of Pink Texas Chick. We all form part of the Texas Latino Bloggers group. The ladies have definitely inspired me to do so much more locally for our Houston Latina Bloggers group. Melanie has been a great mentor and is just overall genuine. Michelle, is the kindest and also so willing to help and support.

It's amazing the love and support one can achieve when we come together. The impact created helps propel my motivation forward and gives me so much energy.

My favorite part was of course listening to Robin Roberts, her story of triumph in so many areas of her life just really helps place so much into perspective.  While I didn’t get to meet her personally or speak to her, maybe one day. I was front row center and captured her elegant demeanor and strength.

Her motto of "When fear knocks let faith answer the door! If there is nothing there then, something better is coming!",it helps be at peace with where you are right now. Embracing the now and accepting the moment.

Bert Jacobs the creator of Life is Good was also a speaker at the conference, I was able to speak to him one on one. His story and the lives he has impacted are incredible. How he converted a pumpkin patch idea into a Life is Good music festival is just mind blowing. The power of positivity, it pays. He stated during his session the following; "Takers eat well. Givers sleep well." I don't know about you, but I want to be a giver! He expressed the need to be authentic in your brand because customers know the difference, and they have the power to make you or tear you down. He has made superpowers that are accessible to all, with his positive brand. 

"We are all living our own story, all we need is time. Protect your time with your life- because it is your life!" ~ Bert Jacobs 

{I will share his interview next week}

Candy Chang, the soft spoken young woman who, I believe, is making true social impact was definitely another speaker I was looking forward to hearing. It's amazing how a small and "simple" project in her neighborhood has made such a huge difference in the world. During her session she stated the following: "Good ideas develop from an open mind.--- Make your own discipline-from our life experiences and skills.--- Grief made me love a lot more.--- Approach life and work with the right attitude." 

The breakout sessions discussed equal pay and leadership positions for women in the workplace. Negotiating for the job and pay that we want and deserve as powerful professional, entrepreneurial  women that we are. The panels and the women involved were phenomenal, they really have an understanding of what it's like to be a hard working Momma in the U.S.. In all the new connections and bonds created are definitely worth the drive, time and effort.

"We see people who have succeeded and we think, oh they have never had a problem, but that's not true! They just don't wallow in it all."-Wendy Wallbridge 

::5 Reasons I attend Conferences:: #TexasConferenceforWomen

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

This past week I went to Austin, first time going alone. For a conference for work. It was a great experience, I didn't get to see or eat everything I wanted to, Ha. But, I know that next month when I go again, I will try to see more places and experience true Austin cuisine.  When I go again it will be for another type of conference though. One that I have great expectations about. The Texas Conference for Women. One of my Blogging-Sisters will be speaking, which is very exciting! Melanie of Que Means What ; will be part of the Social Media Round-table.  {You can read more about the speakers here} 

I love going to Conference, here are the top 5 reason why: 

::Personal Growth::

Every conference has brought on a different experience and level of personal growth. I have either learned something about myself or something that will help me gain valuable insight into my future goals. Either way conferences hold many modes of inspiration and motivation which have all led to moments of great growth for me. In many areas. I honestly have tried to cut back on them because you can become so overwhelmed and want to attend them all but if you select a few very specific ones the growth is more abundant. 

::Networking::

You just never know who you will meet, what type of life-lasting connection you will make. Conferences bring together people for all walks of life and with their own unique experiences. Meeting these people, speaking to them and learning from them add so much value to you as an individual. I have met some very interesting people at conferences most of whom I keep in touch with now. We become business partners, friends and a good source of information for one another. It's truly a great way to meet new people you wouldn't otherwise be able to connect with. 

:: Me-Time ::

Let's face it, as a working wife with {Dos} 2 toddlers, I don't get much down time. Attending conferences, even when local and for a day, to me is the best type of me-time! I get to be around good company, enjoy what I am learning and do something that I love. What else can I ask for out of me time. It may still be considered "work" to some and it's not exactly a day at the spa but to me, when people and situations can ignite my brain and set my soul on fire, well that to me is a great day! The motivation and inspiration attained is like no other. For someone like me, I couldn't ask for anything more. 

:: Travel/Exploring ::

Attending conferences, even when locally, gives me a chance to travel and explore on my own. The furthest I have gone so far is Detroit, MI. Which was amazing. I traveled alone for the first in years and now I know what I can handle. I have also visited other cities in Texas like San Antonio and Austin on my own and both have been good experiences as well. When the conferences are here in Houston, I love to take the time to learn more about what this city has to offer for not only myself but for my family. I love it all. Travel is good for clearing your mind and expanding your knowledge. 

:: Sister-hood ::

Again, I have met so many amazing women from all over the world at this point. Some of whom I become very close friends with. We are able to bond over the 1 or 2 day conferences and learn about each other and our goals and passions for what we do. The bond becomes one that helps us carry-out good working partnerships and even a select type of sister-hood. One where we can support one another, where we can learn from one another, where we can be mentors to each-other. We share about our experiences as Wives, as Momma's and as Career driven individuals with like-minded goals. The Sister-hood should grow and develop over time and the respect and collaboration should be mutual. 

I am truly excited to be returning to Austin and attend the Texas Conference for Women for so many reasons and I can't wait to see what new inspiration comes of it... 

You can read more about the conference here. The day will be filled with innovative speakers and incredible breakout sessions. I can't wait to experience it all and bring back the highlights to you via social media. Make sure to follow us on Instagram & Twitter for more updates! And, follow the conferences social media sites for more information! 

FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/texasconferenceforwomen/timeline/

TWITTER: https://twitter.com/TexasWomen

INSTAGRAM: https://instagram.com/txconfwomen/

WEBSITE: http://www.txconferenceforwomen.org/

Coming off of Cloud 9, back to reality...

First off,  the conference I was in Austin for last week, was for my new job. I don't usually disclose where I work. I can tell you though that, I worked with a company involved in the Oil and Gas industry prior to this, for 2 years. The job was a very good experience, some of the people there, not so much. But, I learned and grew in so many areas. It has now brought me to where I am today. I am still somewhat in Oil and Gas. I am a coordinator for a large organization and it is allowing me to learn about conferences and I will be doing some travel. 

My experiences last week were very unique to my career. I  embraced it all and am so happy to have been able to go to Austin to my first conference with this company. Through blogging I have been able to attend several conferences. But, being on the opposite end of assisting with the logistic, running the registration office and connecting and communicating with the vendors. It was all new to me. I loved learning it all. I look forward to being further involved. We go to Vancouver in 6 months, that I am sure will be an experience all in itself.

My 2 years prior to this job, were definitely an experience, I hated that I couldn't just settle and be happy in my job at my old company. I tried. Time and time again. I adjusted my attitude, changed my perspective, and moved into a different position, just to make it all work. At the end of the day. I felt like giving that all too well known "break-up" speech, "It's not you, it's me...". Truth is, it could have been a little of both. The company was large. Some of the employees that I interacted with daily, lacked social skills and didn't know how to separate "home from work". The company is so large and production drive that culture truly lacks.  And, the focus is not on creating employees that can work together and instead focused on; how much more money can these people make us.

Today. I am in a completely different spectrum of all that non-sense. I have creative freedom, autonomy, and employers who want to build you up as an individual to create a productive employee who will grow with the company. I came back from a great trip and conference experience to the through of, "now what?" As if I have reach the peak of my current experience and am ready for so much more. I am being propelled forward and motivated to do so much within my position. And, then I thought, I have lasted longer at jobs I didn't like, so why I do feel that this job is propelling me to go further? Maybe even into a bigger and better position else where?

I realized that this is what you call a "career" high. Finally for once in my life, I don't feel like a company  isn't giving me enough motivation, they are giving me so much I want to fly. But, instead I should step down from my cloud and pace myself. Do my job and prepare for what's next. Be reminded of the realities of life and deal with it all, one day at a time.

I need to refocus on my current tasks, step off of cloud 9 and settle back into reality. Taking it slow and truly learning what is required of me.

How about you, are your current career choices making you love your job or do you have regrets?

::Women Empowering Change Conference::

IF YOU WISH TO ATTEND THE CONFERENCE IN 2016 PLEASE PURCHASE YOUR TICKETS THROUGH MY AFFILIATE LINK : HERE: 

As a constant observer of life; if you know me you know that when invited to events or conferences, I usually do not  walk away empty handed. I will always try to take something from it, whether it’s a new business contact or a full heart. Either way I love events, mini-retreats and conferences where I can share my story, be myself and grow. This past weekend that very thing happened. Shunte Gamble-Davis of Women Empowering Change Conference is slowly building an environment of true Sisterhood. A place where we can come together as Women, as Momma’s and as goal driven individuals to share, grow and embrace one another. Last year’s conference was my first and it did not disappoint. Walking away feeling purpose-filled and happy, I knew this year’s conference could not be missed.

Then this year happened. Let me tell you as Shunte would say…..HEY YA’LL! This year, I walked away with direction and action steps. I walked away with an even bigger support group and cheerleaders of daily life struggles. I walked away with a deeper and a more true sense of self. The ladies in the group are not only ambitious and inspiring but also down to earth and open to help others in any way possible. They are creative writers, authors and poets. Women of faith and of all walk of life. Of all ages and sizes. Nothing matters in this space other than coming together as one.

Affirmations and prayers were given. A sense of belonging was created and I always love the random moments where everyone can break out in song or dance. It’s always a fun and happy environment. No room for judgment or negativity. Always love and true support.

I believe the time has come for us to realize our difference and learn more about one another, this conference I feel is the shift toward the beginning of something great. Best of all, it’s local! Houston needs more events like this. Where local women who are creating, doing and becoming can come together encourage one another and be productive and active in our very own community.  

The event came at the perfect time of the year for me, as I began a new journey. A new position, with a new company. So, this was a refreshing way to begin that journey. The hostesses were so gracious and fun. The speakers all with their own story of despair and victory were are all so sincere and kindhearted. I think this is all something that comes with the size of the conference and the surroundings being created by the participants and founder of the conference.

Women Empowering Change Conference provided not only a safe space to share and open up about who we are. It is also a networking event for women who really want to make local lasting connections and even friendships. Most of the ladies I met last year, I have now worked with through the year and still keep in touch. The workshops and team building activities encourage us to actively participate and meet the women around us. These women, like most, wake up every day and make a positive impact not just for themselves and their families but for our community as a whole. Women Empowering Change is a conference that I truly wish will grow and gain community recognition, it is well deserved.  

I walk away with hope, feeling victorious and knowing that I have women on my side who will help me no matter what! 

***************

If you want to meet Shunte, then attend her next event and find out more about her and her story... 

https://totalbeautyexpo.eventbrite.com

Pre-Conference Jitters #beblogalicious #begreatb6

                                                     http://beblogalicious.com/conference/

I know. I am not a newbie. But, this is really the first year that I get invited to "so many" different conferences and that I am able to attend. Therefore, most the conferences I attend are new to me. Even Blog Elevated which I attended last year, but this year the venue was new, there were so many new people and opportunities! 

When I first got invited to Blogalicious, I thought, "Oh sure, no biggie. Just another conference." But then, I registered and was added into the Facebook group. And, OH.MY.WOW. Within a day I realized how huge this will be and how awesome it is that I am ending this year's conference run with Blogalicious! I can just feel that it will be another amazing experience to share and learn from. 

After I had my major "O.M.W!" moment my next thought was; what am I going to wear?!?! Haha. Such a girl.  Here are a few looks and outfits from the conferences I have attended so far this year...

Also, it's midnight on Thursday and I am not yet finished packing! I leave tomorrow morning...if you want to follow my little adventure and conference wardrobe follow me on:

::Facebook:: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Momma-of-Dos/167499493284586

::Pintrest:: http://pinterest.com/mommaofdos/

::Twitter:: https://twitter.com/MommaofDosTX

::Instagram:: http://instagram.com/mommaofdos

       

::Time Change~Seasons:: #motivationalmonday

http://conference.beblogalicious.com

Our lives have many seasons of change, growth and just everyday life filled experiences.

This year I am definitely thankful to have not only a full-time job but also that my blog has been filled with work and opportunity. It’s been one of the biggest seasons for me and this little here journey of sharing and pouring my heart out. 

After almost 7 years of working, writing, and attempting to take my blog to the next level, it’s happened.

But, funny thing is, now that I am living this season. I want something different. Something more “personally” fulfilling. Just can’t quite put my keyboard on what it is yet… and I know, people would probably think; what else do you want? But, trust me, I know there is more out there, I just have to keep working towards the goal of turning my passion into something that everyone can see and will want to be a part of!

I have figured out that too much hustle and bustle is not the perfect fit for my family. Yet, I keep doing it anyway. I told myself in June that the Ford conference was the last conference I would attend in 2014. But, here I am in October and getting ready to go to my second conference since June.  

I told myself I would take a break from October to November for about a month, but guess what? October is gone and I worked more than I did in September. Now November is here and all I can think is, why would I take a break now?

While I know that extensive traveling is not exactly what I want for myself and my family life, I do love it. I love the adventure of it all and this month my little family will join me in the travel to one of my conferences. That’s a blessing for sure.

I have in recent years lacked in my planning, so these days we tend to do a lot of “spur of the moment” type things. I think Blogging can be a combination of both being prepared and then just taking it one day at a time. Which is why I feel it has worked me and I have been able to get through this season and prepare for what is to come... 

And, as this season comes to an end and I feel a new one coming in… while the fears and doubt fill my mind and clutter my heart. I am ready. I want this place to be filled with so much more and I am want to make it all happen.

Are you going through a new season right now? How will you handle it?