"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!

Nourish ::Your Soul::

The prompts for this months NaBloPoMo are about nourishing your body... a lot of great posts and great prompts.. and I decided to take it into a different direction because the word has new meaning to me.

When it comes to being Nourished. How do you seek to find a balance? As a Momma my daily feelings are often challenged.  I can be ecstatic and energetic one minute and wore down and drained the next, as a Woman, I struggle some days to keep that balance. Not because I am some of kind crazy ::or maybe:: but because we have so many situations, issues and tantrums coming our way that it tends to happen. 

"You are not alone. You are not crazy." It's what I wish I could hear more often but some days... I just know that most won't understand. I crave 5 minutes alone. In silence. Does it happen? Rarely. And, at times forced. I have to make this time for myself or else my daily feelings explode. On my children, on my Husband and sometimes on my friends or people close to me.

This past weekend I attended an event that has become a tradition with one of my close Yvonne from Running in Faith. Yvonne and I have a history together. A lifetime if you will. We rarely get to see one another even though we live in the same city. Very common, Houston is ginormous! She lives though on the opposite end of Houston. I live in Cypress/Katy and she lives in Pearland. When she invited me 3 years ago to go to the Women's Event at her church I didn't know that we would go every year since. But, we have. It's been great and we have invited friends along the way.

These events have taught me 3 things:

1) I crave being nourished; by the word of God and my faith. No matter what your faith or religion is, believing helps me be renewed and refreshed.

2) I get a BREAK! Attending an all Women's event once a year is GREAT! No children or Husbands; as much as we LOVE and adore and would do anything and everything for our families...a little break is much needed.

3) Seeking a connection. Finally. I am constantly seeking that connection. With the only other human beings that will understand me and have some real and honest advice. Women. It's amazing how great that connection can become.

Developing Self-Worth {Faith}

I will always be the first to admit that it's been a challenge to transition from years, and years of working crazy amount of hours, crazy amount of jobs in a crazy work environment outside the home to working crazy amount of hours, crazy amount of jobs in a crazy work environment inside the home. Ha. It's true. As someone who has worked outside the home their entire life, I prayed daily to become a Stay@HomeMomma, now that it has finally happened it's been, well. Yes, Crazy. 

Stressful. Overwhelming. Unexpected. 

I didn't picture the demand, the job itself, and the amount of patience it took to stay home with a 3 year old and a 2 year old. It's been chaos. Every day a little better but definitely a new challenge as the days go by....if that makes sense. Finding a balance has been difficult but slowly I am finding a new pace of life, a new schedule and my niche within my home. 

The balance is found in preparation, growth and learning from your mistakes. I believe being pampered on the outside can be just as important as being pampered within. When we make a change to our exterior being we feel great on the inside; proud and loved. When we make a change on our inner being, it shines through to the outside. I think people notice when you get a haircut but they notice even more when you have peace and happiness on the inside.

I am what I like to call an "open-minded non-traditional Catholic". I understand all the values and morals taught but I don't like to limit myself to one set of strict views because I feel that you can miss out on something so much bigger and so much more amazing. I believe in a true blend of the old traditional views mixed with new forms of worship of praise. A balance. Never one extreme or the other. 

In my almost 32 years of life, I have always "been" a Catholic. It wasn't until I turned 24 that I knew what having faith was. It was then that I not only opened my heart but my mind to new ways of thinking. I knew I loved praying to the Virgen de Guadalupe and that I believed in Jesus and the Saints. But, the traditional way of worship and praise just didn't fulfill this seeking and thirsty little heart of mine. I dove straight into my church and became more involved that is when I started to find new ways of worship and praise that weren't the traditional nights of praying the Rosary. This time I was deep in meditation and peace that only God could bring me.

I would sit in a quiet dark church and ask Jesus to sit with me to show me His light and guide me. And, as crazy as this may sound many, many days His presence was there and I had peace and a new sense of belief.

These days. I attend mass and read my Momma Devotional Bible {Mom's Devotional Bible NIV} and I also pray day in and day out for different reason. I wear medallas de Santos and light candles. I also attend events at different churches that I know my soul will benefit from, not always Catholic churches and I definitely enjoy it. 

Just this weekend I attend the annual Women's Event at New Hope Church in Pearland. It was my 2nd year attending and the message was awesome last year it was about Marriage and Relationships. This year it was about us; as Momma's, Wives, Daughters, Sisters, etc. We are all human and we all make mistakes. We can't please everyone and as Women we need God in our daily lives to guide us and lead us onto the path that He has planned for us. I Loved it. I know I will definitely make it a yearly event. Plus, I  got to spend time with my Beautiful Amiga Yvonne from Spanglish Girl which is always fun! 

{Vulnerability} ♥

As a Woman {and now more so as a Momma} I tend to guard my heart, my thoughts, my feelings. Sometimes pretending they don't exist. That's how Super Momma's are suppose to be right? As the oldest child I've learn to be strong, to move on and to carry on. That's how Super Daughter's/Sisters are suppose to be right? As a wife, I've learned to endure and overcome, to forgive and to love no matter what. That's how Super Wives are suppose to be right? As an everyday person I've learned to ignore and conceal. That's how a Super Everyday Person is suppose to be right?

Right?

There comes a moment when you look back and think; "Wow, I am so glad I didn't tell that person exactly what I was feeling or what I went through." I think that because we are women and we have so much riding on one person revealing our thoughts, feelings, and past we guard it all, we keep it all to ourselves... until...you find that person. Or maybe a couple of people {aside from your Hubby or Significant other..}that you can trust. That you can be REAL with. I have that. I am Blessed.

It's helps. On those days when your super powers cease to exist and it feel like the world is made of Kryptonite. {Yes. I Love Me some Superman!} Release. Without censorship to a female friend without worrying about judgement, or future gossip is an amazing feeling. That conversation that you didn't think you could share because it was well, too much... but then you shared it and realized...I am not alone. Being a Super Momma is difficult and hey even Superman had backup to help through the really tough situations. God has give me not only a group of amazing Super Hero's in my life but also some pretty awesome sidekicks who help me pull through when I am running out of energy, motivation or faith.

As a Women I think we get so wrapped up in the "drama" that we forget; we are human and have our own personal drama raging within. As my favorite song goes...."there's a battle between good and evil..." I repeat, why is it that as Women who are suppose to be friends, we turn our backs on each other and destroy instead of build-up.

I've learned that drama will come and go. If it lingers it's cause you've got something to handle or confront. When it's gone. It's not missed. At all.

Every relationship a lesson learned. Every situation conquered with God.

Hope your week is going well. Me. I am fighting my own battle and moving on....

Moving on.

{G.N.O.} ♥

Last Friday night was a special night. I attended the annual KSBJ G.N.O. {Girls Night Out!}. A great night to head out with girlfriends in the Houston area to praise, worship and pray. To be changed. To be Blessed. It's my second time going..and let me just say, it's getting better as the years grow on me.

This year I went with a girlfriend who I grew up with, Yvonne, we stopped seeing each other from about the ages of 13/14  until we were about 26/27 years old. Yes. A long gap but when we saw each other as adults it was as if our childhood  hadn't passed us by. We were now; Wives, Momma's or future Momma's, and life had taught us a thing or two. God was right in bringing us back together as adults; we appreciate each other, accept one another and bring new light into each other lives. Who knows what would have happened had we stayed friends during our teenage years but I do know that as adults, I don't plan on letting the years gap, ever again.

We went to dinner, caught up on our week and arrived at Grace Community Church,  it's an amazing and personal space set up perfectly for praise and worship. A prayer at the beginning of the show. Then our seats... for the next almost 3 hours God was in that room and in my heart as a renewal of my Faith and Love for Him!

A great comedian; Anita Renfroe, brought light to our everyday and to the night ahead. If you've never seen her in person, I totally suggest you do. HILARIOUS. She is a Momma filled with wisdom and faith. She knows that in order to make it through this life we must laugh at ourselves everyday! She does the best job at teaching us that every life "drama" filled situation as a Momma and Wife are funny! My Husband saw THIS clip and was sold!

"Difficulty is inevitable. Drama is a choice."

Our speaker, one of my most abso-favorite Blogger/Speaker/Writer/Proverbs 31 Woman; Lysa TerKeurst !
She is the smallest, most soft spoken but powerfully spoken woman. She is so real, and funny. Her family is no different from anyone else.  She is no different than any other Momma, other than the fact that she is a super amazingly published author. Her soft words of Momma wisdom filled with peace, faith and love just filled every space in my heart with joy and true hope. I was at peace to know that amidst the messes of our lives, and the chaos of our homes, the loud children and hustle and bustle of every day life; there is silence in Jesus. Silence that allows us to hear Him and His love for us. No matter what we have been through, where we think we will go, God loves us all the same. His Love is real. His Love is pure. Only His Love can save us from despair. Only His Love can change us from the inside out. Only with His Love can we Love others.... She stated that her and her Husband gave a gift to Jesus from their hearts; they promised that for 365 days they would reach out to a live person and give them a little bit of their time, a little bit of their money, and/or a little bit of their encouragement; in order to touch 365 lives whom God knew they would be a Blessing to. I thought that was amazing. I want to be that person who gives time, money and encouragement. God has filled me with his passion and I know I have the Love to share it with anyone who needs it.

Matthew 5:8

New International Version (NIV)

⁸ Blessed are the pure in heart,
   for they will see God.

Finally, a singer a tiny woman with a powerhouse voice! Natalie Grant. You can't help but jump out of your seat and lift your soul in praise! She is also a Momma , her compassion and kind heart shines through her voice and performances. God has definitely given her an amazing talent. We are Blessed, that she decided to share her voice... she is amazing.... She reminded us that Jesus is Alive! ......and it is well with my soul....

The night was an encouraging, heart lifting and  faith empowering one. That will definitely allow this year to be my year of CHANGE!

God doesn't make mistakes...and that night...Yvonne and I were more than meant to be there... MORE THAN MEANT TO BE THERE.

I hope that everyone is given the opportunity to experience a night like I had on Friday...cause I know that God is working...working lots. 

Good night everyone. Blessed night everyone.

{Baby steps, an Epiphany, & Respect}

Change. It's been ALL over my mind. Funny thing. Sometimes you don't realize how much change your soul and heart need until someone ELSE points it out to you.

I admit, I've allowed situations and people to make my crystal clear blue waters into murky and bitter ones... Horrible, I know! Not in anyway shape or form blaming anyone for anything; other than myself for allowing the bitterness and blah-ness to linger and stick like glue to my happy {pretty} thoughts; if you know what I mean. This year is all about change. I am also not saying that everyone else is right about me, but I am saying "HEY I AM HUMAN RIGHT?" It happens. Better late than never...and change is MORE than welcome in the new year, just sayin'. I for one am starting with ME. My attitude, my life, my perspective and forgetting about the past. I think I am an ok person and deserve a clean slate in 2012... I hope... Ha.

Thankfully, I have some pretty amazing women of God in my life. My Sister for one has showed me to live life and move forward. I also have a growing group of Women of Faith; who share scripture and uplifting words with me no matter what!
Don't get me wrong, they are not always like, "OH CONNIE YOU ARE SO RIGHT AND SO GREAT {so pretty and so perfect and your BLOG Oh-M-Geeee, ahhh-mazing!}!"

Uhm no, they wouldn't be real friends if that's how they thought, some days they are like;
"Connie get over it!", "Connie it's your pride, read your Bible", "Connie DON'T BE STUBBORN and listen to God"; and in those moments I realize how amazing they are and how God has slowly by surly placed them in my life to be my most BESTEST friends EVER! I have lots of great women in my life who listen to me, respect me and love me...for me. I have been Blessed but trust me..it's taken time and lots of prayer... these ladies didn't come over night and I have grown to know them and they have grown to know me..and I think that together we have grown. I love them lots they know who they are...

So, let's get to changing! Ha. Ok, we take a break on day 6 of the New Year we can start over on the 9th....even change deserves a weekend!

Role Models.

{Praise & Worship Wednesday}

As a child I looked up to many, many women in my life, as an adult, it's the same. I don't think I ever expected anyone to look up to me.

That's changed now. I have children. I have a daughter. I want her to love me and admire me for who I am. For whom God has made me to be. BUT, I always remind others, that I am in the end...HUMAN. I do make mistakes. I do talk too much and I do put my foot in my mouth!

I was so convicted last night when my Husband pointed out a fault in my tongue last week. My questions are....How? How do you apologize after you've stepped out of your comfort zone, only to put your foot in your mouth? How do you speak your mind without judging? How do you let it all go? I am not only reminded of scripture and call for grace and redemption... but I am also reminded of that song...from John Mayer...."My Stupid Mouth"...and I feel horrible.

So, I pray.

James 3: 5-10
Taming the Tongue
5 Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. 6 The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole person, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell. 7 All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and sea creatures are being tamed and have been tamed by human beings, 8 but no one can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. 9 With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness. 10 Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be.

Ephesians 4:29-30

Instructions for Christian Living
29 Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.

And, I change...

 

 

Do you ever wonder...

Why people are in your life?

Everyday people cross paths with everyday stories.

Some of sorrow others of joy.

We are all on this journey together. {Technically} To help and encourage, to love and to hold....

Life has brought many great people into path. These days I think about how Blessed I am to have these people in my life.

I learn from their mistakes. I heal with their wounds. I pray for them.

We pray for each other.... We love our families..... We go to Church.....

We craft. We Blog. We take pictures....and have fun!

I've seen them grow. I've seen them hurt. I love them just the same.

We cry together. We laugh at one another. We live life.....

That's life.

A journey.

We don't take it too serious and always tell the truth...even if it hurts...

We are all on the same bus with different stops. {The big yellow bus that is... }

No matter where this ride may take me.....I am holding on tight and enjoying it...every minute of it...

Life is too short to be worried about tomorrow...and what or who it may or may not bring...


Only God knows when it will stop..and when I will get off the bus.... {I hope it's at Disney World....Wha'? I hear it's fun...I'm just sayin'....}

I hope you are all sitting next to your Besties on this ride...I know I am.

[30 of FAITH]

This one took me a minute.

I couldn't find my older Bible:

30 Bible Verses that have gotten me through my 30 years (Really more so the last 6 years).....

1. Philippians 4:13

2. Psalm 23

3. Psalm 27

4. 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 {Read at my wedding...}
5. Proverbs 31 { My inspiration}
6. Lucas 1:39-45

7. Matthew 9:29-30
8. Juan 4:43-54
9. Luke 15:11-32
10. Marcos 9:24
11.John 3:16
12.Genesis 18: 1-10 {Gave me hope while trying to have children}
13. Psalm 1
14. Psalm 3
15. Psalm 6: 1-3
16. Psalm 22
17. Psalm 31
18. Salmo 84
19. Psalm 90
20. Psalm 91
21.Psalm 103
22. Psalm 104
23.Psalm 131
24.Psalm 139
25. Psalm 143
26. Psalm 144:4,6,8
27. Psalm 145:8,14
28. Salmo 55:11
29. Matthew 25:31-46
30. Luke 10: 38-42 {Side notes: We worry and do all the wrong things. The one right way is the Lord's way. Don't worry about petty things when he is teaching you LOVE, LIFE and HONESTY.}

I have so many others tagged and so many notes, but they are VERY personal.

During my time with my old Bible, 6 years ago, I was  going through a lot with my parents.

Their marriage was in GREAT despair. Hence my obsession with Psalms {and with having a Faith-filled family of my own}.

Psalms, was my favorite book during this time. 

I pleaded and cried out for help almost every night since I was 13. It wasn't until I was 24 that God came into my life and that He showed me that if I cried out to HIM...nothing was impossible and everything was possible.

At 24 I truly came to Christ and my life has changed very much since then. Not perfect but just right. I've learned many lessons and life has definitely hit me hard, but I have always managed to wear a smile. Not because of me, but because of God. He has guided me and I continue to follow Him closely. Yes, I still making mistakes but learning each day how to be a better me.

A little hint when reading the Bible, that I learned at 24:

You set a time and place a side for you and Jesus to talk. How?

Just like you would with an old friend who you want to catch up with. You find the right location, where no one can bother you and where you can give that friend your undivided attention. You make sure it's comfortable and quiet. You set up a candle that will remind you of the constant flame that Jesus is within your heart. Then you start your conversation by saying; "Jesus, I am here, ONLY for You. To listen and give you my undivided attention. I am yours. Please give me peace and understanding so that Your Word can fill my heart and every empty space in my soul." Then you start reading your favorite verse...BUT slowly. Calmly. Taking in EVERY word. Listening to God. Really capturing His unique message for you. Once you are done reading, you sit. Close your eyes and listen to Him, for Him. His Word will fill your life with that light and that wholeness that NOTHING and NO-ONE else can give you. 

It's an amazing feeling. 

I hope you can relish in this one day.

This is my new Bible, which has started my Momma journey with me: 

[Thankful for 30]

There are soooo manyyyy reasons to be Thankful for but I will limit myself to 30, for the obvious purpose.

I am THANKFUL for:

1. My Husband-Rick Man
2. My Children-Santi & Cami
3. My Parents-They have taught me about life and then some.....
4. My Sister-She is a friend and so much more!
5. My Brothers-They are crazy!
6. For my Nephew Olin, he will forever be a younger brother to my children.
7. learning to Read and Write
8. having rights and a place within my community
9. having a stable and constant paycheck
10. all the Women of FAITH in my life these days!
11. Prayer
12. knowing WHO I AM, WHERE I WANT TO GO, AND WHAT IS RIGHT!
13. my Home, it may NOT be new but it serves a GREAT purpose
14. my Truck! It works and as of May 2011 IT'S PAID FOR! Say what?!?!
15. the ability to use all of my senses!
16. physical mobility.
17. my co-workers
18. The Internet {when it's used for good reasons}
19. Social Networks, they keep me connected with friends and family from afar!
20. my extended family!
21. my Husband's extended family- THEY ARE AMAZING SUPPORT!
22. My Mother-in-Law who watches my children
23. My Father-in-Law who is able to provide for his family so that my Mother-in-Law is able to stay home.
24. Being born in the US-Nuff said!

25. My Husband's education.
26. My Husband's Internship.
27. My Husband's friends, they are all GREAT men of Character and great examples to my Husband.
28. The Bible, I'd be lost without it.
29. My Church
30. Above All Jesus and my knowledge of Him, my Trust in Him. His un-failing Love and forgiveness.

{I COULD GO ON FOR DAYS!}

[30..Meet and Greet]

As part of my 30 days of 30 lists, today's list will include 30 people who I have met in my 30 years! {I know I have met far more than 30 people and forgive me if I leave you off the list, it doesn't mean you are not important...trust me, I know who you are and where you stand in my life, and hope that I am in good standing with you.}

These people have brought not only smiles and love into my life but long lasting memories as well. 

Names are not really in any type of order...

{30 People in 30 Years}

1. My Husband {My rock, My friend, The person God gave me to share the rest of my days with}
2. My Sister  {A friend from God, an honest and tough person.}
3. The Obvious {My Mom} She was the first and will always be....
4. My Son {No words}
5. My Daughter {Equally astonishing}
6. My Dad {Lessons Learned}
7. My Brother Jesse {Artistic}
8. My Brother Max {Youth, Funny}
9. Amelia G. {My Best Friend from H.S. }
10. Hector {A mentor}
11. Ivonne B. { Began a journey of Faith with her}
12. Kim G. {She joined our journey...}
13. Markie {Taught me strength...with class!}
14. Lola {A fair and equal Supervisor, who became a great friend}
15. Twanda {My Diva!}
16. De'Lana {Sweetness}
17. Joani { Classmates for a lifetime}
18. Claudia W. {Cheer and Joy}
19. My Ruthie Mae {An awesome friend, with lots of Love}
20. Maria R. {I've met plenty of Maria's BUT none like her!}
21. Shalimar {Even her name is exotic! Beauty and Brains.}
22. GabGab {Mi Comadre.... no joke, she really is.}
23. Isela {Rodeo time and good friend}
24. Oh.M.Geeeee. CASEYLOVE. {My true Sista' from another Mother}
25. Just recently Kathy A. {Instant click!}
26. And another Karen C. {Crafty inspiration and Mommy friend}
27. Alfredito {My cousin and Older brother...Ha.}
28. Yoli {Became more than my cousin for years my confidant.}
29. Annie H. {My private Nurse, Ha.}
30. Yvonne A. { A blast from the past..with a purpose!}

All of these people come from different walks of life. Each unique and special in their own ways. Each contributing something amazing to my life. Each appreciated and Loved. Each an amazing and equally God sent person to a specific time of my life...

It takes two....

For years I had prayed for Women of FAITH to pour into my life, God slowly but surely answered my prayer.

One of those Women, just happens to have an amazing God given talent. 

She has been a rock in my life as far as being accountable for who I REALLY AM, Who God has called me to be and I love her for that. 

She is as she says a "Holy Roller";she has been an amazing example of perseverance, truth, Love, and above all sister-hood {in Christ}! She has mannnyyy a times set examples of true friendship in my life, never loosing site of Him and never giving up on me { and people in general}. Casey is a sweet spirit with a tough soul! You may say, "what?" But, I repeat; she is a sweet spirit with a tough soul! She has a heart like no other and never gives up on her goals, dreams and who she wants to become! 

Her FAITH has proven that NO matter what your past or present brings forth; hard work and TRUE dedication pays off. She is a true WOMAN OF FAITH. She knows that with Him and through Him ALL things are possible. 

That Faith and Perseverance has been a shining light in one of her passions; Photography! As her dreams unfold I am taking one of the best seats in the house to see her evolve and create. She is great at what she does!  Her career is just blooming but her light already shines bright! {Dream-Tree Photography}

She has been there for me; good and bad, ugly and nice. I love her for that more and more everyday! 

She is one tough cookie that I love to call my friend and that God has given to me as a Sister-in-Christ!

She is one of my Best Friends. 

Thank You Casey for being you. 

{The links provided are to her Blog; where you can see my recent Maternity Shoot with her, or just click here}