:: 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

a Rafflecopter giveaway

::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)."

a Rafflecopter giveaway

::Mommy Trade:: Mom's Night Out Event, May 16th in Houston #ad

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

As Momma's, there are certain features that we seek when joining online groups some important ones are; feeling secure and trusting the group, sense of community and how easy it is to navigate their website. Which is why I am loving Mommy Trade! It combines all the convenience of being able to buy, sell, or trade your used baby items with a sense of community and safety. I know that when I had my children, this could have been very helpful. I would give up on trying to have garage sales and would end up throwing items out or just giving them all away. Mommy Trade makes the process of selling these items and making money, simple! 

For all the details on how you can sign up and cost visit their site here, they are very affordable: http://mommytrade.com/mommy-trade-about-us/

On May 16th, you will be able to meet the group face to face as they will have their first-year celebration with a Mom's Night Out. Where you can network with other Momma's, engage with local Momma entrepreneurs and participate in a lot of fun giveaways! 

You will be able to win a few Momma of Dos goodies as well- Social Media consulting and Blogging 101 consultation, for moms with small businesses or looking to work from home. You must attend the event to win! To enter, tell them Momma of Dos sent you! 

**Mommy Trade-Mom's Night Out Event**

Join us for our Moms Night out hosted by MommyTrade.com! Meet our local moms and have a fun-filled night out! 

$5 at door or show ticket

We have an exclusive venue just for Moms Night Out and can't wait for you to join us!

Your $5 Ticket includes:

* 1 Drink Ticket

* Apps (First Come First Serve)

* Enter all Giveaways (via smartphone)

* Shop until YOU drop at all of our fun and mom-friendly businesses! 

* Happy Hour Pricing on Drinks

* Mommy Trade - Cake (Yum)

* Access to exclusive Moms Night dinner menu (special pricing) Dinner is NOT included in $5 ticket. Ordering options will be posted on the Events page.

This venue will hold 200 local mommies so invite your friends and let's enjoy this fun and relaxing mommy night out!

http://www.crescentmoonwinebar.com/home

https://www.facebook.com/crescentmoonwinebar

(Moms Only) We will be looking at your Facebook profile to see if you are a mommy. 

If you are a local business and would like info about sponsorship or a Table contact us at support@mommytrade.com

*This is our official 1-year anniversary celebration and we hope you can join us in celebrating!

Please RSVP via Facebook!

Tickets for Sale!

http://bit.ly/1NNEftR

::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! 

"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!

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 

::Vestido Rojo:: #LatinasGoRed

::Momma Disclosure:: {This is a compensated post. I received a special invitation to the Vestido Rojo Luncheon and Fashion Show, in collaboration with American Heart Association. All opinions and statements expressed below are my own and true and honest.}

As Latinas we learn to simply place others needs and wants before our own. I think that naturally as women and Momma's placing others before ourselves, just happens. It isn't something we think about, we just do it. We see it as an example from our own Momma's and so we allow it to happen as the norm. Truth is, while we should care for those around us we should also learn to place our own needs and especially our health first. Not because we are being selfish but because the healthier and stronger we are; the better we can care for our loved ones. 

Last week I was invited by the American Heart Association, to a wonderful event that not only pampers women and makes them feel beautiful but also reminds us of the consequences of not taking care of our health. It was an afternoon of empowerment and encouragement. Where 3 amazing Houston Latina Champions of the Community received special recognition and awards for their work. The always inspiring Dr. Laura G. Murillo, President and CEO Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, told us about her own experiences with Heart disease and the fear of losing her Momma at a young age. 

The afternoon's motto was very fitting:  "Educate, Equip, and Empower" Oh and did I mention the salsa dancing! It was so much fun. As part of the campaign to be more active the afternoon was filled with music and a couple who showed off their moves.

One of the leading causes of death in Latina/Hispanic women is Heart Disease. Not too far behind and walking hand in hand with your heart is Diabetes. As a member of a very large Mexican family I know all too well the grief of both of these illnesses. My Grandmother lost her limbs and life at an early age due to Diabetes and dialysis. And, my Grandfather has had heart surgery due to heart disease and mild heart attacks. Sadly, no matter how much I have tried to avoid it; just this week, I too was diagnosed with Diabetes. I am not one to give in easily so I have already started taking steps to control my disease and regain my health. 

The Houston area American Heart Association has a great website filled with important information for those seeking to better their quality of life or help others get back on track. They have events, resources and way that you too can help contribute or donate. Their site is bilingual and offers recipes, exercise tips and a list of risk factors/symptoms. 

Here are ::THREE: changes I am  already making in order to live a healthier life! What are you doing to create a healthier lifestyle for yourself?