:: Making Shifts and Creating Change as Moms:: #HoustonMommieSeries

::GIVEAWAY POST::

As Momma's we often feel like we are not making an impact but trust me, there is so much we can do to create shifts and change. We start with our home, creating a safe, healthy and happy place for our children and family. We start with ourselves, making sure that our needs are met, that we are well rested and that we are minds are well taken care of. We start with our circle of supportive, positive and like-mind Momma's.

Making a shift and creating change, comes from within and our surroundings. I have been for months now, working on myself, my inner peace and really prioritizing my goals, my health and thinking about my finances. I hope to be able to write a little more in the month to come and fill you in. If you follow me on Instagram, Facebook and Snapchat (@realmommaofdos) then you know, LOTS has been going on. 

I joined a new project with a wonderful group of women, who I admire and am inspired by. You can find more details on our Facaebook page, Livin'Latina Live. 

There is always something special to me about partnering with local organizations and supporting local women, I am all for it! Which is why today, I am bringing you a giveaway for the following series, The Mommie Series! It can help YOU create that shift you are looking for! Gain knowledge in the following areas; Family, Health, Finance, and Fashion with some amazing panelist and speakers. Led by an incredible team of local Mombassadors!  You will also find a WONDERFUL group filled with local connections, a new network and support system. 

See details below AND enter to win!!! Tell your friends, it ends Sunday! 

Misti Pace-Krahl, is the founder of The Mommie Series.

The Mommie Series is a quarterly educational series for women based on family, health, finance, and fashion.  Their success has been featured on CultureMap, 002 Magazine, Tidbits, Houston Chronicle, Houston Woman Magazine and spotlighted on KRPC Channel 2. The Mommie Series has been called one of the best Girls’ Night Out providing a full “Edu-tainment.” You can also find them at - The Mommie Series.

 Fall Edition is on Wednesday, August 9th at Native Citizen. 

NOW ENTER FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN A SET OF TICKETS FOR YOU AND FRIEND TO JOIN THIS AWESOME GROUP OF MOMMA'S!

If you enter and don't win you can still obtain a ticket with a 20% discount, use code "momma"

Website link to tickets:  http://www.themommieseries.com/the-mommie-series

Direct Ticket Link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fall-edition-of-the-mommie-series-tickets-36089843694

Facebook Link: https://www.facebook.com/events/848502805298611/

(Please select "going")

www.TheMommieSeries.com


2 Tickets to ONE lucky follower

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::M Live! The Expo About Modern Midlife:: JOIN US THIS WEEKEND

::Momma Disclosure:: This is a sponsored post but all opinions are my own and true. 

Register for free online with code: MOMMAOFDOS

Website: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/m-live-the-expo-about-modern-midlife-tickets-28532414219

::DESCRIPTION::

When it comes to menopause, we all get there at different times, with different circumstances, for different reasons, and at different times in our lives. There's not one thing about menopause that's the same for any one of us—but we all arrive at that place, that intersection, at some point or another.

But, midlife is about infinitely more than menopause. And while menopause plays a role, it's not the be-all, end-all of midlife.

Did You Know?

51% of all women are in menopause, but not every woman in midlife has gone through menopause. As women, menopause and midlife are as inevitable as death and taxes. We are the forgotten women. When we are girls and mothers of girls, we are told how to handle puberty, but who helps us how to handle when we go OUT of puberty?


Welcome to M Live!

M Live! is THE Expo about modern midlife - focused on empowering women and providing resources, support, education, entertainment, and opportunities that they can’t find anywhere else. This isn’t your momma’s midlife, this is modern midlife personified.

M Live!—brought to you by Intersection M—features speakers that specialize in integrative and traditional medicine, gynecologists that specialize in menopause and fitness and nutrition experts to provide tips on whole body health and most importantly the opportunity to have your questions answered by a panel of health practitioners that have your best interest in mind. Need motivation? We have speakers for that too! Want to understand finances? We have you covered. Our speaker on finance in midlife will have you set for retirement.

Meet Us At The Intersection!

Being held at the Health Museum in Houston, the day will be filled with information, education, laughter, sisterhood, botox, fillers, advice, questions and answers, vendors who sell fantastic things, a yummy lunch, snacks, giveaways and contests!

It's going to rock your midlife!

We are going to be bringing it, and we want the same from YOU!

Midlife today is what you make it, let's celebrate it together!

FAQs
What are my transportation/parking options for getting to and from the event?
The best way to get the event is via car or you can always Uber! Parking is free at the Museum, surrounding streets and at the McGovern Gardens across the street.
How can I contact the organizer with any questions?
You can contact Lee at lee@intersection-m.com or Faith at faith@intersection-m.com.
What's the refund policy?
We would be happy to refund up to 10 days before the event. Unfortunately, we can't refund after that!

WEBSITE: https://intersection-m.com/

FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/intersectionm/ 

TWITTER: https://twitter.com/modernmidlife

::Inner Healing and Supporting Women:: Renaissance Women Summit

::Momma Disclosure:: Post was created in collaboration with Amanda Russell of Fit Strong Sexy , Interesting Houston, Danelia of  Project Z and local group the Houston Latina Bloggers.  All pictures are property of Momma of Dos, if you wish to use them please contact me: mommaofdos@gmail.com 

There is much to be said when other women invite you to their table with open arms. Much to be said about women outside your circle who trust you instantly to be brought into their space. And, far more to be said about women who are truly supporting other women. In a clear and genuine way. 

I attended the Renaissance Women summit this past weekend, the vibe and the energy were incredible and it was all due to the coming together of several local women and one amazing visionary, Amanda Russell.  

I heard two messages loud and clear and I feel we would all, as women and simply humans, benefit from them.

::Inner Healing::

The thought that hurt people, hurt people is true. One of the speakers; Jen Groover, spoke very honestly and openly of this topic. Her testimony hits very close to home for me. Her mother was an abused wife and as a child, she witnessed so much that now she wants to empower her own daughters to be strong and stand up for what they believe in. More importantly to be more emotionally aware than most children their age, which was very impressive as a fellow Momma. Her biggest power is the idea of self-healing and not allowing those bad moments to create bitterness and sadness but instead learn from them and grow away from those toxic environments. 

We all have the power to heal. Some of us might need lots of help and support but that's OK, at the end of the day healing is your goal. Some may not have the tools that they need to heal but could find those tools in others through empathy and compassion.

Jen has such an amazing story of survival and triumph, she is such a true warrior! Again her story made a great impact on me and how I have healed over the years. And, honestly this healing is on-going. We are always going through experiences and situations that don't always go our way. We must continually learn and grow from our traumas and bad experiences. It's the only way to move forward, evolve and be successful! 

One statement that really resonated with me was:

"Successful people work on themselves first." 

::Supporting Other Women:: 

I knew the summit was directed towards women and that in itself was amazing. I met women from many walks of life and professions. I was fulfilled with that alone. But, then there was a constant message with the speakers; Tamilee Web-Hall better know for being the face of Buns of Steel, Jen Groover a Ted Talks speaker and serial entrepreneur/business woman, Anika Jackson and Staci Henderson of Interesting Houston and Amanda Russell. They all spoke to how they couldn't have done it without each other. They spoke about how if one person succeeds it never hinders your own success. There is, and always will be enough room at the table for everyone. The limiting thought that I must protect my success and not share or be able to promote other women within my industry, niche, or even within my own ethnicity, is ridiculous. I want all women to succeed, and be happy. This will set the norm for all successful relationships. 

#communityovercompetition should be something that is practiced across the board and that we should as women, embrace. We will only be able to succeed when we understand that everyone's grass can be green no matter what. The mentality of "every man for himself", while it can be productive in some instances, should not be what drives us to move forward. We should truly and genuinely build one another up and decide that in order to break the glass ceiling, we must unite. Dr. Noreen Khan Mayberry, one of the events panelist, spoke to this as well, empowering women and having one another's backs. It's what our community should be about, no matter what your industry is! 

Overall, there was an amazing sense of relate-ability among us all. We all have a story to tell and somehow our stories resonated with similarities. Some how, no matter what our background, ethnicity, age, or upbringing, some how our similarities, prevailed.  

This type of event fills me with true joy, first off as a Latina who passionately peruses empowering the women in her community, and secondly because I want to better myself as a woman, Momma, employee, wife, career-driven person. The Renaissance Woman Conference encompasses all of those important factors that push me forward towards a better me. I love representing the Houston Latina Bloggers and try to do my best with every opportunity I gain. ~Connie Gomez (Houston Latina Bloggers) 

::Renaissance Women Summit GIVEAWAY:: LAUNCHES IN HOUSTON 2017

::Momma Disclosure:: This is a sponsored post. All content is my true and honest opinion.

You've made your New Year resolutions, established some goals and know what your vision is for 2017! Now it's time to start implementing, creating action and being informed on how you can make your goals a reality. How? Attend your first business summit of the year with other like minded women.

ENTER GIVEAWAY BELOW!!! {2 WOMEN WILL BE ABLE TO ATTEND FOR FREE!!}

What is the Renaissance Women Summit?

"A one-day Women's Summit in Houston, Texas where some of the most influential women leaders and influencers are coming together to share inspirational stories, offer practical, REAL education, relationships and offer priceless tools and advice for excelling in both your personal and professional life."

Why Attend?

"THE RENAISSANCE WOMAN EXPERIENCES HELP YOU CELEBRATE YOUR HEALTH AND BECOME YOUR STRONGEST, SEXIEST, MOST SOPHISTICATED SELF."

Date: Sunday January 15, 2017, Time: 10am-5pm
Where: JW Marriott Downtown Houston 806 Main St, Houston, TX 77002

                                                     ::REGISTER HERE::

Learn more about the creator ::here:: 

Amanda Russell is: 

"Female entrepreneur, marketing analyst, UCLA professor, and national brand strategist, Amanda Russell has chosen Houston, TX as the city to launch the Inaugural Renaissance Women Summit (http://interesting.agency/rw) on January 15, 2017 in partnership with The Bucaram PR Group (http://www.bucaramprg.com), Interesting Houston (http://interesting.agency), The JW Marriott Houston Downtown (http://www.jwmarriotthotelhouston.com), Houstonia Magazine (https://www.houstoniamag.com), and Revista Mujer (http://larevistamujer.com)."

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::Qualities of a Good Leader:: #IKSH

Lead by example. 

It's simple enough but once you are in that position many things can go array. The best opportunities to learn for me have come by surrounding myself by other women in leading positions. 

Last week on, Wednesday, April 27th, I know Somebody Houston hosted it’s annual Firestarters event to a packed house of women leaders at a local bar and restaurant, Ladybirds. With amazing Firestarters such as Misti Pace-Krahl Founder of The Mommie Series-Houston, Dawniel Winningham, Founder of Wealthy Sisters Network, Sharon Lee Zapata, Founder of The Bitchy Business Briefs & The Zapata Group, Tikila Adolph, Founder of WTF - Winning Through Fitness - The ADOLPHs & Lee Brochstein, Founder and Chief Editor of J-Vibe and myself as Co-Founder of Houston Latina Bloggers & Founder of Momma of Dos. There is no doubt that we were all "moved, inspired, redeemed, and ignited." - Victoria O. Garcia of IKSH 

Victoria O. Garcia of IKSH {Picture credit} 

When I look at these women I think of leadership and being a good example. I created the following list of the qualities that I feel this group possess. And, I am honored to have been able to stand with them side by side and have shared our stories of courage and inspiration together.  These ladies have given me a new sense of purpose and life. Filled me with motivation and beautiful words of encouragement. It's not east to lead a group and sometimes you get stomped on, but these ladies reminded me of why we do what we do and reminded me of HOW we do what is needed to get ahead. 

1) High Standards- It's easy to see when you meet these ladies that they have high standards for themselves and the way they conduct business. It's so important, it helps you be accountable and helps you create a specific type of brand that is committed and dedicated to working hard. 

2) Strength- Every woman I have met and that I continue to connect with have amazing strength. How do I know that because I have listened to their stories and know what they are capable of. It's empowering. 

3) Willpower- One thing that I have learned is that when there is a will, there will always be a way. When you show others that you can do those things that maybe you yourself didn't think you were capable of your willpower to succeed shows. And, others will love that and are more willing to follow you. 

4) Drive- Saying you will do things is easy, but having focus and drive to make things happen, that's a whole other ball game! Stepping it up to that next level is what creates impact in others, being the example and leading in that example of doing as I do, not just as I say. That's true leadership. 

5) Goals Achieved- Of course, everyone has goals, but these goals need to be reached. These ladies have stated months, maybe years before that they would have or do certain things to be their own person. And, when you meet them they have taken the steps needed to reach their goals and have achieved them! 

6) Open to Criticism- We don't like to be told when we are wrong or how to correct things, but these ladies have all had this type of criticism. And, this is the type of people I want in my corner, not always agreeing with me or telling me I am great; because that will never bring growth. People who are honest and open and can tell me how it is, because then I will learn from my mistakes and perfect my craft. 

7) Willingness to Share- We all have to start somewhere, and being able to share what we have learned along the way is a big step into creating other women leaders. I have met many amazing ladies willing to share their processes and methods to succeed. Becoming my mentors and giving me insight into how I too can be successful this is always great to me. It's proof of confidence and uniqueness.

8) Adaptable to Change- It's so important to be adaptable to change, nothing will always remain the same, if it does, then you have a problem. Change creates growth and learning experiences that can help you overcome situations. Being able to see those changes and embrace them is highly important to most every entrepreneur I have met.

9) Shaky Past- Great leaders are created by their past, sometimes those past lives have not always been great. I think that having a shaky past is what creates the adaptability to change and the willingness to help others. My past is not the best which is why I never think twice to give a helping hand in whatever that might be! Not saying everyone must face adversity to succeed, but sometimes having that perspective helps us better connect with others.

10) Empowerment- Every lady I met last week has an innate ability to simply empower, to make you feel like you can go out and follow your dreams and better yet achieve them. This is the type of positive high that I love. Feeling that sense of self to achieve anything I want. A great leader will make you feel this way. It's my goal to make others feel this way, because I have been there and the feeling is immense.

 Pictures Courtesy of IKSH 

My goal is to create leaders, to be surrounded by women who are on the same playing field as me, who are my equals. It's the only way to move forward in a positive direction. Empowering women to grow and learn what they need to succeed.

Not to divide and conquer but to unite and succeed! 

::Wordless Wednesday,Kinda....:: Seek your Tribe

So, you should never believe me when I say "wordless", never gonna happen. And, I wonder why my busy body, talky 4-year-old will never shut-up! Wonder. Why? ::insert perplexed look here::

I have over the years worked and become friends with so many amazing women, some who continue to be in my life. And, then last year I was able to partner with two local Latinas and create. Create something so purpose-filled and meaningful that it makes all the sleepless nights, worth it. I feel that over the last few months no matter how busy, how crazy, how dramatic and how hard things get we have managed to overcome so much. We call ourselves a Latina Tribe. Our tribe is composed of many great local Latinas. We thrive. We write. We share and we move forward. 

{Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HTXLatinaBlog} 

I have learned to motivate myself and others to seek greatness and endure change. This picture of Ari, Jihane and myself was taken by my Cami. Another generation of Latinas that I hope to inspire to follow in the footsteps of the wonderful women who currently walk the earth, and those who have left us. 

And, while I am constantly seeking to connect with the Latinas in our community, I am always reminded that my "tribe" has nothing to do with my culture or ethnicity, and everything to do with togetherness. I have Momma tribes, Latina tribes, GREAT women tribes. We are all in this together and as long as your tribe supports you. Is real and honest with you. Tries to uplift you and is always silly with you, nothing else matters! 

Seeking your tribe is about finding a group of women who will be there for you, who will collaborate with you and don't see you as a threat to their dreams. Instead, your tribe should work to help you reach your goals and inspire new dreams so that we can all win. Help you create the success you desire, and vice-versa! So, that we can all succeed and create a wave of greatness. 

That's the kind of tribe you should seek. 

"Oh the places you will go..." with #JotinaBuck

Having a clear vision of what you want and where you will go from your current situation, whatever that maybe, is important. Which is why I was excited to meet and listen to Jotina Buck this year at the Women Empowering Change conference, here in Houston. Her life has been a roller-coaster, as most of our lives. Despite it all, her positive outlook and happy demeanor, have taken her where she is today. A beacon of light and direction. 

I was quickly inspired to start my 30-day affirmation challenge soon after her amazing session. That affirmation challenge came at the perfect time, I was about to start a new job and needed the vision and the positivity. As the weeks at my new job have continued, I realize that I need daily motivation and a clear vision of what I want to accomplish. Enter, Jotina Buck's periscope. My morning drive to work is very short and usually around 7 AM. During this time I realized that Jotina was posting a daily Periscope broadcast. Her teachings of mind mapping, creative visioning, and growth mindset training are a daily re-assignment of where you are going and reminder of where you want to be.

Creating a daily positive mindset is important to remain focused. Change your mindset and how you speak to yourself, it's Jotina's main message. And, it works! Creating those daily reminders for yourself early in the day, will help gear your path throughout. Just this weekend she Periscoped about a speaking engagement where her speech would be focused on "Oh the places you will go...".  If you don't have kids read it, and if you have children read it to them. It's about creating our own path and realizing that all we need is within ourselves.

Jotina's message is one that will truly change how you think and encourage you to rise above. You can watch her on Periscope and follow her posts daily. Truly inspiring!

::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/

::Vision Board:: Update

Last year I attended WEC for the first time and I was introduced to Vision Boards. Today, I have 3 boards in the works. I have been wanting to sit down and add or really just be more specific in my visions. Because, it's good to revisit your goals frequently, if not daily. I wrote a post on Vision Boards  in the beginning of the year. One important thing to note is that creating a vision board doesn't make your life perfect, worry free or even happier. Those are choices we make as human beings and should work towards. It does give you a clear direction and a better "road map" to regain focus on what your purpose and goals are.

When I review my boards now, I can see that some of my visions are coming to be. You simply envision your life as you want it to be or know that you have potential to be at. Your career; in a positive direction of true purpose and meaning. Your family-life; peaceful and stable. Your finances; abundant and debt-free. Your children; safe and healthy. I know it may seem a little far-fetched at first, but once you live it, you know how real creating these visions can be for true direction in your life.

Again, these things don't  just happen over night or out of the blue. But, you create a vision, write down your plan of action and then execute. Through your vision and hard work all things can come to be.

Today I have a new "cool" job, I am more focused and I have renewed strength and goals. Our home isn't perfect but we have peace. Our finances are in a good place. I am working towards a healthy life both physically and mentally. I make sure that I invest in myself and surround myself with positive people who only want my families well-being.

I plan on creating a vision board for my new work space where I can start to create a vision of success and growth.  I even have a virtual vision board on Pinterest! Vision boards are not limited to one strict format, they are free flowing and can be words, pictures, or a combination of them. You should have fun and know that this is something you are investing time and thought into. It should be a positive experience that allows for your creativity to shine.

Just like our 30 days of Affirmation challenge all things come from positive, happy thoughts.

Follow us on INSTAGRAM.

What will you envision today for a better tomorrow?