Tejas y Nopales #JamesAvery

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

As Hispanic Heritage Month comes to a close, I am getting the opportunity to write a little about my background and heritage. Thanks to the beautiful sterling silver charms at James Avery I am able to fully express who I am and where I am from.

I'm a little bit Texan and a little nopaluda. In between Tejano music and Banda. I know English but think in Spanish (super true). I love carne asada and I can eat Whataburger and pizza every day. I love Novelas and watch This is Us. It's like the scene from Selena (Yes, I went there.) "Being a Mexican-American is exhausting." You have to live in two very different worlds and somehow merge them very gracefully. 

My parents were born and raised in Mexico. In the 80's they came to Texas, Brenham/Navasota area to be exact. I was born and then we moved to Houston, when I was in the 7th grade we moved down to South Texas, or what is known as the Rio Grande Valley. My identity since I was born has been both Texan and Mexican. Mexican-American. I was taught to speak, think and feel in Spanish before I even learned English. Being Bilingual is also a big part of my identity.

My love for both sides of the border has always existed. Over the years it's grown. I will admit being a young Mexican-American in the US, was not easy in the sense that I was always so embarrassed to bring my non-Mexican friends around. My parents (and whole entire family) were "super Mexican" whatever that means, right? Now in my 30's and with kids of my own, I find myself missing my parents home and all of our food, family, traditions, and way of life. I do everything possible to not only continuously embrace my heritage and culture but also further learn about it and teach it to my children.

Growing up I had the opportunity to visit and travel to Mexico quite often with my parents and sometimes spent months there over the Summer. As an adult, I have also traveled to certain regions of Mexico. The absolute richness of its culture, its food, the heart and passion that Mexico has to survive is something that I hope to one day share with my children. Right now Mexico is a distant place for them but they know exactly where their GrandParents were born and how great being Mexican can be. I have always strived to teach them about both our Texas/American culture and way of life as well as that of being Mexican. I think they understand it well. Of course, they see and know the Texas side a lot more but when they get older I hope to take them to Mexico where they can experience it all first hand.

In the meantime, I love being able to continuously express who I am through the beautiful and customizable accessories that James Avery creates. There are so many pieces that I know I need and am obsessed with. 

Visit their page for more: James Avery 

::Dia de Los Muertos:: Chevrolet Traverse Safety #SPONSORED

::Momma Disclosure:: This is part of a sponsored collaboration with General Motors. All opinions expressed are my own. 

What better way to celebrate our culture and teach children about our traditions than to create a Dia de los Muertos altar or ofrenda. This year I partnered with GM, and Chevrolet for a Trunk or Treat event to teach our children about keeping safe while having fun and enjoying Halloween night!  

We created a truck altar which embodied all of the traditional elements of our customs as well as let the kids get fun treats and enjoy their night safely. 

Some of my favorite elements of the ofrenda are the food, the pictures, the papel picado and of course the traditional calavera, or catrina. We loved putting the altar together and then sharing it with friends and family. 

We fully enjoyed the Chevy Traverse for 7 days, it's features and comfort were so amazing. We really did fall in love with this mid-size SUV. It's a great family car with great space. As you can see the trunk was just the right size! 

See below how we transformed the back of the Chevy Traverse into a Dia de Los Muertos Altar: 

:: Safety Tips for after dark activities this Fall ::

Did you know that on average, children are more than twice as likely to be hit by a car on Halloween than on any other day of the year?

Chevrolet Traverse Safety Expert, Suzanne L. Johansson, Chevy Traverse Safety Engineer, helped put together the following safety tips to ensure all families are safe during the festivities:

1.)          Drive Scary Slow – Kids are excited, full of sugar and potentially walking in shoes that could cause tripping. Slow down and be prepared to stop for the ghosts, goblins and crossing the street or chasing a piece of their costume in the wind.

2.)          Treat Yourself to Car Tech – Chevrolet recommends you never turn off safety alerts, but if you have, turn them back on. Features like rear-view or forward-facing cameras, collision alert sensors and 360 cameras give drivers a better view of what or who is surrounding their vehicles while backing up or just driving down the street.

3.)          Avoid Dreadful Distractions – If you are concerned about being tempted to use your phone while driving, take advantage of vehicle storages cubbies that you cannot access while driving to eliminate the temptation and distraction.

4.)          Motorists and Masks Don’t Mix – While it may be fun to make fellow motorists laugh, it’s a bad idea to drive while wearing anything that could potentially impede vision like masks, goggles or silly glasses. Place them in the trunk or a convenient storage space to avoid sliding while driving until you reach your location.

5.)          Don’t Get Tricked, Always Buckle Up – whether you’re rolling slowly on the street while your kiddos rock the sidewalk or you’re moving a group of superheroes door to door, be a stickler for safety and buckle up every time you’re in motion.

We hope you had a great Halloween and Dia de los Muertos celebration with your loved ones.

::A Wedding Post:: Culture and Traditions

There are people and acquaintances in your lifetime. Then there are few that you can truly call friends. Friends invite you to their weddings. True friends ask you to blog about it. Then you have to think of just the right words to say, or else, well then you would suck as a friend. Kidding. But, I did find it hard to gather the perfect words. It's now been a few months since my friends Jason and Diep were married but I am happy that they even asked me to write about their special day. 

First off, I don't like to pass up opportunities to write about events, especially one like this. The morning of the wedding I began to feel a little pressure. My friend had asked me to write about his wedding. I got nervous, the bride is Vietnamese and that morning as I drove to the location I realized it was at her home. I know, from other Vietnamese friends, that there are very specific traditions followed when they do their ceremonies in their homes.  So, I had to figure out everything I needed to know before I arrived at the wedding location. I reached out to one of my good friends, Tran.

I messaged her on Facebook and asked her what I needed to know in order to be respectful to the morning's event. As she began to tell me the details and the history behind the wedding ritual, the tears started. Such a detailed ceremony filled with meaning, and so much history. Tran explained to me that the wedding would consist of an extensive set of ceremonies. The bride's family would first have to ask for permission to receive the bride at the groom's house, the groom is asking her family and her ancestors if he can take her from her home. The bride is received at her house and is then taken to the groom's house to be received by his family. The end-point is for both families to be properly introduced and accept the coming together of two lives.

Tran explained how symbolic the rituals are and how deeply emotional one can become. Essentially like in most faith-based weddings, the family is giving their daughter away to her husband. And, as one family "loses" their daughter the other has gained her as an important new part of their family. Yes, these traditions can seem very sexist and dated, but of course while some traditions still stand others have changed with the time and blend of American cultures. I don't ever like to see the bride as someone who is just handed over to a new family, in this day in age the bride chooses who she wants to be with and it's a coming together of two willingly adults. Which is far more meaningful.

Once arrived it was evident that traditions and cultures had blended while everything would be very traditional there was also an understanding that the groom's family and friends were not Vietnamese. We were welcomed into their home and placed at ease about what was expected of us, which was to enjoy the wedding as we would any other.

When the groom arrived his groomsmen, close family and friends formed a line outside the house. The procession had a specific order. A representative of the groom's house was assigned, And, the groom's father and the groom led the way, followed by the rest of his family and his close friends.

In the procession, the groomsmen had lacquer boxes, covered with red cloths. Inside these boxes were specific gifts representing, according to tradition;

"wealth that the groom's family will bring to the bride's family. Gifts are usually fruit, cakes, a roast pig, fabric, and an abundance of jewelry for the bride. Usually, the number of gift boxes varies between 6 or 8, but never 7 or 9 since it is seen as bad luck. However, it depends on personal view and might be reduced to 2-3 boxes." [In Vietnamese beliefs, the even number and the red color will bring luck to the young couple.] - (Source: Wikipedia) 

The groom then presented the gifts to the bride's family, where traditionally he is then given permission to greet the bride. Diep who until that day lived in the U.S. with her Aunt and Uncle was then escorted downstairs in a beautiful red traditional wear gown by her Aunt. After the bride was downstairs and presented to the attendees. Each groomsmen presented the bridesmaids with flowers and introduced themselves. after which a family representative from each side introduced each of their family, extended and all.

The "permission" ceremony then began, in front of an elaborate and very colorful, ancestor altar which represented the bride. The bride and groom burn incense and asked for permission from the ancestors to bless them on their new journey together. The couple then turned and bowed to their parents (her Aunt and Uncle in this case, who represented her Mother), they gave thanks for raising them and bringing them to this point. The bride and groom became very emotional. Jason's mom passed away a few years back and Diep's mom is in Vietnam.  

They had a traditional ring exchange, a beautiful tea, and candle ceremony, along with speeches thanking their families and each other. The bride's family members each provided heartfelt advice and words of support. In all, the wedding was an amazing experience and I am so thankful to have been invited to be a part of such a wonderfully rich tradition. One that I hope Diep and Jason pass along to their children. 

My own words of advice for the couple, continue as you are. Strong, together. Loving one another and supporting each other no matter what. Life has been tough for you both but trust me, it will get better. May you both have a lifetime of bliss and love. 

Jason Garcias is a Houston podcaster and videographer, he is one of the hosts for the Elder and Jay show. He is an amazing Michael Jackson fan and well-rounded individual.

::Houston Museum of Natural Science:: La Virgen de Guadalupe #ad

::momma disclosure:: this is a compensated post. all opinions expressed are my own.

"La Virgen de Guadalupe ha sido un símbolo de esperanza, protección y consuelo para sus seguidores por casi 500 años, pero ¿por qué? ¿Qué tiene la virgen que ha inspirado a millones de personas en el continente americano? La virgen morena apareció ante Juan Diego en 1531 en un evento que no sólo le cambió su vida sino la de toda una nación. Hoy en día, su imagen representa un milagro y la identidad de una cultura. Revive su historia desde sus orígenes hasta el día de hoy en nuestra exposición."~HMNS 

Growing up my life revolved around traditions and most were created because of our religion. As my children continue to grow and learn about us as Mexican-Americans; who we are, where we come from and what we believe in, I want to expose them to cultural connections as much as possible. Which is why I am always seeking and thankful for exhibits, like the one currently being present at the Houston Museum of Natural Science about La Virgen de Guadalupe. 

A while back when my kids were little a man around my age, early 30's asked, why? Why I dressed my kids as Juan Diego and a Gudalupana? My answer was because of my culture and my roots and what I want my children to know about how I was raised. While I know that they will ultimately select their own path and religion, I don't want to lose the opportunity to teach them as much as I can about our culture, faith and identity as Mexicans in America.

While we might not always be active as Catholics, we still have our faith and beliefs. But, I feel that more than that, certain Mexican traditions are such an amazing part of history you just have to teach others about it. My kids might not always end up praying the rosary every night, but we honor our ancestors and respect where they come from and what they believe in.

If you have a chance to visit this amazing exhibit Momma of Dos has a special treat for you! Discount tickets, click on the link here and enter the following code- atom (just as shown, no caps) 

Celebrate the Holidays by creating Traditions with Hallmark! #HallmarkTradiciones

{This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Hallmark & in collaboration with Latina Bloggers Connect. . The opinions and text are all mine.}

Every holiday season, we try to add a new tradition. This year, thanks to Hallmark, we decided to let the kids choose their very own Christmas ornaments to hang on our fresh tree. The kids had not done this before, so it was a bit confusing at first. We went to our local Hallmark store, which is literally an adult candy store. I had to remember we were there to let the kids select items, and resist buying everything. They have such an amazing selection of Holiday items and, of course, the best Holiday cards. All the perfect gifts to help spread joy. 

The best part of spreading joy is planting that Holiday cheer in our own home. We love creating moments and traditions that the kids will remember.  No matter what is going on during the Holiday we love slowing down and remembering what the time of the season is all about. For us, that means family, more importantly, our children and their growing memories. We have such crazy schedules and lives that small moments like this, no matter how hectic are always fun. 

The kids were so excited and after several minutes of browsing, picking up and almost deciding on ornaments, they had made their final selections. Santiago picked the Grinch and he talks. He loved his choice, I did too. Very unique and a classic Dr. Seuss character. Camila picked a princess, not any princess but the new version of Rapunzel. It has been a favorite movie of the kids since it came out. I love that both picked an item that represent them and that they will remember they selected. 

Filling our home with Holiday cheer, lights and now new Christmas ornaments for our little tree, give bring us great joy and create new traditions. I know the kids will now look forward to adding a new ornament every year. I think that every year will be unique as the kids continue to express grow into their personalities. 

Last year we added "Lucy", our Elf on the Shelf which is available at Hallmark, to our Christmas traditions. And, this year when she reappeared from her year long hiatus the kids were ecstatic. They look forward to what crazy trouble Lucy will get into. It's the small traditions that bring them joy and that to us is happiness.   

What kind of traditions have you created for your family every year? 

Do you want to win your Holiday cards and gift card from  Hallmark to help you spread the Holiday cheer this year? ENTER BELOW. 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Hallmark. The opinions and text are all mine.

::Ela Designs:: La Catrina #DiadelosMuertos

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

Ela Designs is a local vendor, I found Ale and her beautiful hair designs on Instagram and instantly fell in love. Once I contacted her about sponsoring a post, she immediately agreed. Then my inspiration for the following shoot came to life. It's no secret that my daughter is my favorite model, but she truly brought these images to life for me and she remained in character throughout. 

La Catrina for el Dia de los Muertos. 

You can read more about how she came to be and the significance here: 

http://culturacolectiva.com/origen-e-historia-de-la-catrina/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/La_Calavera_Catrina

And, it wouldn't be a classic Camila photo-shoot without her silly pose outtakes. She really was in character until I asked her to relax. 

All hair pieces are from Ela Designs you can find Ale on Facebook and Instagram:

https://www.facebook.com/elabyalexsandraurdaneta/?fref=ts

https://instagram.com/eladesigns/

Camila's Dress and accessories came from Cuernavaca, Mexico; my Momma and Aunt have brought her a large collection of traditional dresses and wear. 

Life is about doing what you love and enjoying every moment...