Momma of Dos

{Gloomy} ♥

2012-02-28T05:30:00.000-06:00

Hello Lovely Readers!

I have been M.I.A. or M.I.Non-A. Ha. Who knows. The days here in Houston have been glum! Like seriously, it feels like the sun just teases us and never shows it's face. Why sun, why do you torture us that way? The weather is wet and freezing one day and hot and humid the next.

It's a pain.

I've been ill.

Ill. In so many ways.

And, the weather...well, Dear Weather, I don't like you much right now!

Have you had those days, weeks, months, when you can't shake the blues? I know the winter brings them in but Spring seems to heal them. Only, this year it feels like we will go from Winter to Summer no grey area here in this crazy city!

How about you? Is your city making you BLUE?

I know mine is. It doesn't allow me to MOVE and explore as I wish I could. I have this current hold like something is weighing me down. Lots going on in the Gomez household for sure but I just feel like progress is at a stand still. We had a great start to Lent season, with church and then dinner. I thought the next 40 days will be AM-AH-ZING. Then I just fell flat... I am working, we are reading our Bibles and trying to just push forward.

I want to write but this weather took my brain cells with it. I had a great post in mind, then I thought should I wait... and I WAITED. Now I just don't know what I am waiting for.

Ha.

As you can see this Bloggy Momma has some serious thinking and writing to do!

I hope your week is going a lot better than mine...

Would love to hear from you....

mommaofdos@gmail.com

Or Comment below...

I love your feedback and questions. Always fun!

Have a great week!

{Thankful Thursday} ♥ Link Up!

2012-02-23T21:38:00.000-06:00

I know it's late in the day......but....

This week I am most Thankful for:

{Communication} Various sorts and modes of communication; verbal, written, phone calls, text messages, emails, Facebook wall post, blogs, events, presentations, meetings, etc. etc. It's so important to be able to keep in touch, to speak to others {even if it's not in person}, to convey your thoughts, feelings and emotions. Hablando se entiende la gente...or so they say... I am a COMMUNICATOR. Hence the Blog. I share. It all. Sometimes too much. Oh well. Life goes on and I am happy with my accumulated communications skills. These words, these expressions have gotten me through a lot, have taught me a lot and have allowed me to move about the Blog world and meet new people, specifically Momma Bloggers who are just such a great and learning impact in my life.

{Deliveries} Like my Bloggy friend; Julia over at Black Tag Diaries, who by the way hosts this here LINK UP, stated in her post about V~day. It's different for married people. I couldn't think of what to give Ricardo for Valentine's day as I mentioned he's not into gifts, at least not out loud! So, I finally thought of a gift. He has a job fair next week where he can meet potential life long employers and so aside from prayer I think he need a little good luck so I "created" a good luck charm for him. I will get it all together and post a picture next week. Part of it was delivered today. I love deliveries. They are so exciting. It's like, you know what you are expecting but still the anticipation of actually receiving is so...well... exciting! {I am also waiting on a book from his favorite Pastor; Dr.Tony Evans}

{Birthday's} Today was my Mother-in-Law's Birthday! {Feliz Cumpleaños to her!}It just made me think about life. What a great way to remember that we are here for a reason and a purpose. That God created us for that reason and purpose. And, every year we celebrate our lives for a reason and a purpose. I love that! God is so great. Amazing how He knew that days of the year wear you down and can make you forget those reasons and that purpose, so once a year you are reminded...you are here..alive, .purposely created for His reason! {I think...}

{Forgetfulness ::as I forget what I was about to write::} Today I went to Target; as I do most days {Ha.} and I was looking for a sweater for Camila, well I couldn't find one. That prompted me to look for one at home. I had forgotten that I had a bin of clothes that I set aside months ago as clothes that fit Camila too big. I went to the closet and what do you know? A WHOLE NEW WARDROBE for my little growing baby. That was a nice little surprise. Everything in the bin fit her PERFECTLY. I love it when I forget but then again I hate it... all this time looking for a good sweater for her and I had plenty! Maybe I forgot about a few extra bucks somewhere...let me go look... {HA.}

{Accountability} ♥

2012-02-22T06:00:00.000-06:00

On Monday I wrote about my Momma/Wifey feelings which would then translates into Woman feelings.
My Woman/Momma/Wifey heart has been weighing a little heavy on my chest these days. It's so easy to get caught up in helping and doing for everyone else that you quickly forget that if Momma don't feel good then no one will feel good. How you feel and how you show those emotions rubs off on your spouse and your children. That's a whole lot of icky in one household. Trust me. I know.

I don't like feeling blah. You know those days when the pity parties just don't stop and you are the guest of honor and the ONLY guest...the self-drama is all up in your face. In Spanish we say.. "haces una tormenta en un vaso de agua.." {I drown myself in shallow waters...}

Those days when what I look like, who I am, where I have come from, what I have "achieved" or not achieved, and where I think I am going just doesn't add up or seem at all right.

Then, I realized... "I am having a mid-life crisis". It didn't hit me right at 30 but I've had a few months to wallow..in my 30's... and uhm, oh.M.gee. I AM SO 30! I definitely feel it today. Not like today, today but these days... HA!

I discovered in these little self-pity parties that I am my own Debbie Downer. Ouch. I don't want to be that person for myself! I should love myself. I should appreciate myself. I should be happy with myself. Yet. I wasn't. {I am not.} Then I thought. How? How did I get to this place of self-yucky? I slowly allowed myself to be defined by situations and circumstances. I had that downward spiral into being the person I know I am not.

Well, there is no sense what.so.ever in remaining in THAT place. {It's not healthy, for one.} NO WAY. That's just not me. It's never been me. I move. I create. I am who I am and I move forward!

I will. I have. I can. Those are the words filling my heart today. Over and over. I will. I have. I can. Most of my current blah I know has come from my physical appearance. I looked in the mirror the other day and thought...this is me? Surely it can't be? But, yep it was! Wow. I am so 30! Ha.

Change. How?

ONE. DAY. AT. A. TIME.

One small new change is accountability. I have a couple of again, ah-MA-zing, women who are trying every day to help me achieve these SELF-LOVING goals, in return, I will more than willingly help them achieve SELF-LOVE. I did say this was a year of change.

So, let the SELF-LOVING begin!

{Perfect day to start....it's Ash Wednesday! Let the next 40 days begin....}

{Self-Worth} ♥

2012-02-20T06:00:00.000-06:00

I wish I only had a hundred words..but God is telling me otherwise...

Last week He had me by the pinkie toe of my foot..you know what I mean? Those weeks when you are not quite sure what the turmoil in your heart and soul is REALLY trying to tell you. As a fairly new Momma and a Wife of 5{plus} years, it's taken a new kind of strength and wisdom, maturity and faith to move on. To move forward.

I love, LOVE my family; being a wife has been a challenge but I think as the years have gone by I've learned from my mistakes and moved on. Being a Momma is just a journey in itself, the combination...well that just speaks for itself.

I am not going to lie. It gets difficult to simply move some days. Nights become short and days even shorter. Chores pile up and stress weighs heavy on your weary heart. It's a challenge. God never said it would be easy... that's fo'sho! Ha. But, He also promised He'd be there for me every.step.of.the.way. even when no one else would be. And, BOY OH BOY, has that been true.

People become so much more concerned in constant comparison and set out to destroy; instead of encouraging and building up the Momma's and Wifey's of this world. Sometimes. We do it to ourselves.

It's horrible. I know.

But, that's when God steps in, smacks me on the back of the head with his frying pan size of a Bible and reminds me. Who are you? NOT to the world, but to ME? "You are my creation. And, trust me, I don't make anything short of amazing!"

There are days when our Momma heart is weighing heavy in your tired chest..... we burnt dinner and our souls went with it, the kids are throwing fits and we don't want to deal with it, the Hubby is just in that mood that gets you in THAT mood, and you just don't think you are as a good of a Momma as that one Momma who home schools, is super crafty and cooks dinner every night without burning it. STOP! WAIT. Deep breath and short prayer....

God says.... you are not like her and she is not like you. Don't allow your own comparision. Or anyone elses, to weigh you down. That's not what this life is about.

We all have our own talents and amazing little ways of caring for our family. So, who cares what she has or did that you don't or didn't... God loves you. He's got your back. Trust. Have faith. Be self-loving..not self-loathing. God is an amazing father and He will never leave you or forsake you.

You are an amazing Momma and Wifey! TRUST IN THAT.

Last week was rainy and dark... and when Jesus came He whispered.

TRUST. peace. FAITH.

self-LOVE. faith. PEACE.

trust. SELF-love....

BREATH. wait. Seek.

HAPPINESS.

SELF-LOVE.

faith. trust. peace.

In that moment. In that morning. The storm cleared out. I knew. Everything will be ok. Change is here you are re-newed and faith will take over. God is not going to allow you to stand alone. He brings favor and grace not otherwise.

Being a Wifey/Momma is a tough job. As women we care so much for others that there are moments when we loose ourselves. Becomes so involved and wrapped up in things, people, or places of this world that we forget what the real meaning of life is...and that is LIFE itself. You look over to those amazing little human beings that God has allowed you to have and that amazing Hubby that supports, comforts and secures you and you are in that moment reminded...of His favor and His grace for peace and faith..not for the world... or anything else.

1 Thessalonians 5:11{The Message (MSG)}

9-11God didn't set us up for an angry rejection but for salvation by our Master, Jesus Christ. He died for us, a death that triggered life. Whether we're awake with the living or asleep with the dead, we're alive with him! So speak encouraging words to one another. Build up hope so you'll all be together in this, no one left out, no one left behind. I know you're already doing this; just keep on doing it.

{Because I can't wait until the 30th month!} ♥

2012-02-17T09:00:00.001-06:00

{I know Santi is still 1 month away from being 2 and a half..but I just have to update on who this little man is becoming... }

Mi Hermoso Bebe Santi {My little Man/Mi Corazon},

You are super duper active and hyper {yes...super duper is allowed when describing a toddler! Ha.}. You love to play, run and cause mischief. You look to reek havoc on your little sister and some days she's right there behind you. You have such a unique personality it's amazing to see you grow into who you are. You take control and don't like to be told what to do, I guess no one does. You are such a happy little person unless you don't sleep enough, then you're Mr. Grumpy like no other, or maybe like your father, Ha. Still such a baby but just enough of a little man to decide that you want pickles and Popsicle for dinner, almost every.single.night. We don't mind it. You eat a lot of healthy food during the day with your Ma-maw anyway.

You love SHREK, again. You also love Kung Fu Panda and Toy Story. You talk to everyone on your cell phones and you say Bye and Hello to all your toys when you leave the house or come back...

You can sing the Lazy Song by Bruno Mars all day and all night. {Although I wish they'd block out the part about him and the girl and yeah.} But, it's ok, you love the monkey's and the choreography. You are very strong and healthy, you have not been too sick in the last 6 months. But, when you have been, you're such a strong little man and rise above the illness every time. You love the Dinosaur Train and just a couple of months ago we went to the mall and you got on the train and yelled at the conductor "allllll'borddd!" {as you cupped your mouth to shout} then you yelled "LET'S GO!" Until the train started moving, then you were happy and so excited.

You love to tell your sister "no, Nena" as you shake your head and pull her away from doing wrong but all the while you go ahead and do what you just told her NOT to do. You have more words than you did a few months ago and complete phrases like "Mom, it's cold!" are easily repeated. There are days when you think you are saying a lot and really no one knows what you are saying at all. Your imagination just tickles us... we crack up at all the silly antics that you do. Like put diapers on all the toys cause they have "caca". You toast with empty cups filled with toys as you "drink" away. Always offering me and your Daddy some and asking... "Good Mom?", "Good Dad?" Just the other night you sat down at the dinner table with a pile of mail, opened it, look through it, then got up and walked to the trash can to throw it all away. I guess you are just as tired of junk mail as we are.

You have an angry pose, and one night last month, asked me to tie your sister's blanket around your neck so you could fly around the house. Your Elmo and other stuffed animals get dinner and time outs..cause you know they are so bad all the time. Your rocking horse gets as many water refills and you deem needed and when the horse is done drinking water you make sure to tell it that there is no more, by using your hand gesture which we showed you. You having many faces and feelings. You are very lovable and you love to hug and kiss us all! We abso-love it as well!

You are wearing a size 4T to 5T, people can't believe you are 2 years old. You still drink "ti-ti" and sleep with us.

You are very possessive as I assume most 2 years old are. Your favorite word is "AWE-THOM!" You repeat just about anything we say.....your latest..."MILKA-WHAAAT?!" And, as bad as your tantrums had been they are slowly fading or so part of our everyday, that we don't notice them anymore.

You are very silly, you have a strong character, and you are so lovable. You do have a temper and if you don't get your way you get upset. A lot. We will work on that.

Over all you are more than a wonderful little Man you are a true little Blessing that we absolutely LOVE! I am sure there is so much more missing... it's just so much fun to watch you grow into the littlest man that you have become.

We love you so, SO very VERY much!

Love Always,

Momma {Daddy and Nena too}

{Thankful Thursday} LINK UP!!!!

2012-02-16T10:12:00.002-06:00

{It's been a LONG, LONG week to say the least. I am worried, the worse is just to come... work is going to get crazy busy REALLY soon here. Ahii. I will make the absolute best of it though. God has amazing things in store for our little family, I can only pray. }

This week I am most Thankful for:

{Different Types of Girlfriends} Every one of my friends is special and different. Just this week I thought, I am glad I have Yvonne in my life she is a 30 something Momma of Dos with a great Hubby. But, then I thought, I also have so many other friends who contribute to my everyday in such great ways...single girlfriends, single Momma girlfriends {and Sis}, engaged or ready to be engaged friends, Momma/Wife friends, co-worker Momma friends, co-worker single friends, etc etc. It's so awesome how much God Blesses me with so many type of women who can help me in so many different areas of my life that need improvement or up-keep! Thank You Amigas!!

{Morning and Afternoon Commutes} I usually complain about my 45 minute plus commute in the mornings on my way to work or in the afternoons on my way home. But, just last night I thought, when I've had a LONG stressful day at work..the extra alone time in the car is a great way to unwinde and plan for the evening as well as the extra ride home giggling with my kids afte I pick them up. In the mornings it's a great time to pray and think about the day ahead. Either way I get amazing alone time with God and myself... I guess if my car could speak... I wonder about the stories it would tell...lots of amazing Blessed moments.

{KSBJ on the Radio} I started listening to Christian Radio a little over 5 years ago. Most days are just great, then there are those days when I am totally Blessed. The Dj's are just SO relateable. I can't imagine a day without KSBJ and I don't know how I ever got through my days without it. Just Blessed and I love all their music!

{Self-Control} with Grace ♥

2012-02-15T06:30:00.000-06:00

......the ability to exercise restraint or "control" over one's feelings, emotions, reactions, etc.

When it comes to speaking to others I want to teach my children that it's always best to speak with honesty and clarity to a persons face. It's not about being confrontational but about being open minded and open hearted.

It's always best to let others know how you feel instead of bottling up feelings and emotions, fears and anger. I have always been about speaking to others with truth no matter how painful but remain in faith and love. I allow my emotions to get the best of me sometimes, yes, but I never lie. What's the use in lying, the truth always comes out. Why get caught lying when I can just speak up in the moment. I'd rather be known for being brutally truthful that an awful liar? I think.

Why am I going on about this? Because just recently we had a moment of turmoil in our family. We sat down spoke openly about how we felt about one another,what we thought each one could work on and were just real and raw about our problems and current situation. When it was all said and done, feelings may have been hurt but respect was gained. We now knew where one another stood. Yet, Love was spoken so we knew that what needed to come next was compromise. We told one another that we would give each other time and space and that we would give support in our decisions. Love was gained and respect was felt.

I love having heart to hearts with others, you realize that their fears are just as big as yours and you are reminded how imperfect we all are and how much God can help us learn through one another{s} experiences. I do this with friends and family a like. It never fails..if the relationship is meant to be, it flourishes, if it isn't then God knew why. Being open minded and open hearted is about respect and maturity in our faith and in ourselves.

God has taught me through MANY a failure that sometimes you give people time and space and allow his Grace and Favor to fill in the blanks. Other times you speak up and keep everything out in the open. And other times, you simply remain. Remain in silence and wait on God. Sometimes. That's all it takes. Always standing firm in our beliefs, morals and standards never giving in to the world but instead falling for GRACE and Love. {God's Love and His Grace!}

It's true..when you don't stand for anything you fall for everything... it's about being open minded, open hearted and listening to both sides of the story not just the one that is more convenient to your well being.

I know, the truth hurts. Sometimes more than others. But, we survive...we overcome.

{I wasn't going to post this...seemed too personal... but I just felt like maybe someone had to hear it..and it would some how help them, work through the feelings?}

{Heart Day} ♥

2012-02-14T05:00:00.000-06:00

First off, I owe an apology!

I was suppose to do a Valentine's Day series about the special men in our lives but I just didn't get it together in time. Instead, I linked up HERE and entered a mini-Valentine's Day series with my sweet Bloggy-Momma, Salena, over at A Little Piece of Me. Therefore, I am sorry but I will think of something in the months to come... so stay tuned!

Today's post though is about Valentine's Day!

HAPPY HEART DAY TO ALL THE GREAT MOMMA OF DOS READERS! {Valentine's Day}

This year is extra nice and extra special as Team Gomez has a new Valentine {CamNoodles} to celebrate this LOVE fest of a day with!

Every year I would blah over the other girls Valentine's Day; what they got, where they went to dinner and how special their day was. Then I met my Husband. He is of a different breed. He never really celebrated much and then slowly started to because of me. Then I felt bad for forcing these "special days" on him and thought..everyday should be special and love filled..and they are, and they have been, and they will be. So, I slowly let go of what society wanted me to think a celebration of Love should be and quickly created our own special days with our own little love days. In and around Valentine's Day!

This is more true now that ever, with my Dos little angels we want everyday to be filled with love and faith. Realistically it's filled with chaos and very loud tantrums, but idealistically we are all peachy and cotton candy. We love one another and attempt everyday to show one another our love. God has Blessed us greatly. I would have never imagined this to be my life... ever.

Let me share our Heart Day cards that we gave to our family members today!

I found Mixbook about a year ago. They are really affordable and GREAT great quality! I only paid 25 bucks for these; got 30 with shipping and all...how about that!

I hope you all have an amazing day filled with many new lovely Blessings!!!

From my sweethearts to yours....

{Valentine's Day~Love Story} LINK UP!!

2012-02-13T05:00:00.000-06:00

I love link ups! I also love my Hubby and family.

So, here we go.

Another awesome Monday with a Link Up!

{Our Love Story}

1. How long have you and your significant other been together?

13 Years! We dated for 7 years and have been married for almost 6!

{our first V-day ever! 2000}

2. How did you meet? {What's your "love" story?}

Ahiii. Where to start? Ha. My Husband was my Cousin’s best friend in H.S. When I was 15 {I lived in the Valley}and he was 17 {lived here in Houston}, that Summer my cousins and I went swimming at the apartment complex where Ricardo lived. I saw him, he said “Hi”. Nothing much. 3 years later I graduated High School and came to Houston to go to college. We “met” again. On a blind date. He asked me to be his girlfriend, I didn’t want to have a boyfriend in college, I was a nerd. He was relentless. He asked me twice to be his girlfriend. The second time I said yes. 7 years later he proposed…

3. If married, how long have you been married?

We will be married for 6 years this August! {That’s 13 years after having met in August of 1999}

4. If you are married, where did you get married at? Big or small wedding?

We had a huge MEXICAN wedding, 500 people. Here in Houston. Very traditional Catholic wedding. Lots of dancing and drinking! One of the best memories of our lives…

5. Do you have any nick-names that you call one another? Do share!

Babe. Gordo. ‘Cardo. Momma. Nonnie.

6. Name 3 things you love most about your honey.

He cares even though he acts like he doesn’t. He’s hilarious. He loves me.

7. Tell us how he proposed?

It was a horrible proposal! HA! He claims I was being nosy. It may be true. I found my engagement ring in the glove compartment of his car one night after dinner and a baseball game. He said some kinda half thought out speech and asked me to be his wife…I still cried. It’s still special!

8. Is he a flowers and teddy bear kind of guy for v-day, or strawberries, champagne, and rose petals? He is a "if I have to then I must flowers and card" kinda guy. He doesn’t care much for presents. So, he’s made me the same way… Ha. I am sure he will give me something.

9. Are you a sunset dinner on the beach kind of girl, or pop a movie in and relax on the couch?

Most definitely have always been a couch movie watchin’kinda gal! No pressure here.

10. Tell us one thing you'd like to do with your significant one day. If you could do anything? Go anywhere?

Grow old with one another and watch our children grow up to be strong hard working people.

11. Tell us what you plan on doing on this Valentine's Day.

I think it will be an at home dinner with the kids and maybe even rent a new movie. We are simple people.

12. Are you asking for anything this Valentine's day?

Just lots of hugs and kisses from my little ones…

13. Give us one piece of advice of keeping a relationship strong and full of love.

Honest and Sincere Communication. Every.Single.Day.

14. Show us a picture {s} of what love means to you.

{Anticipation} ♥

2012-02-12T06:00:00.000-06:00

It's what killed the cat right? Or was it procrastination? Who knows.

Ha.

We have a couple of things coming up in 2012! {Big YEAR. I can feel it.}

First off...Cami Bell {Camila Isabel} turns the big HUGE UNO...Siiii. En Marzo.Y vamos a tener una FIESTA.... literally.

Here is a little sneak peek:

Then there is {May}! I think May will have it's own breed of special posts. Filled with so much PRAISE to God and Thanks-giving! May. May 2012. Class of 2012. It will all have such a deep meaning. The month. The year. {Tears fill my eyes as I type this.}

When we look back on May of 2012 we will be able to tell our children; that was the year your Daddy graduated college! After much sacrifice and hard work. For himself, for us, for you. He finished college. Some people may not see it as a big deal. I say. IT'S A HUGE DEAL. I am more than proud of my Hubby and his accomplishments. When we set out to create our own little family we knew that getting an education would be a number one priority.

Now that day could just be right around the corner. It doesn't become "official" until about the 24th of this month, but we can't wait to find out! {Holding my breath..until then. Not literally.}

{Mini Post-Within a Post?}

I realized that some days I have ONE word post. Because, I guess that's all it takes. One word. And, other days my titles are long. Long. Because some days need more words than others. Just a thought. Ha.

It's Sunday. Tomorrow Monday. Ahii. Here we go again.

Thank You God for this Blessed day. I pray that we shine in the week to come...with your light, your favor and your grace.

Amen.

Dreaming A Little Dream ♥ {I'd a done a lot of things different...}

2012-02-11T08:00:00.000-06:00

It's one of my favorite country songs.

Point is. I am currently not a Stay@HomeMomma, but if I were I realize that...I'd have to do a lot of things different... A LOT!

For one. My schedule. I realized that when I know I am staying home, I wake up a little later than usual. Just because I want to catch up on rest and sleep that I don't get much of when I have to wake up and go to work everyday. But, then I wake up late and that results in lots of frustration later in the day...for my whole family. Not just me.

Another thing is plans. I'd have to plan my days a little better. These days when I stay home during the week. I wing it. See what does...or most days DOESN'T happen. I'd plan work days {for me to get crafty and work on my future business}, I'd plan lunch with Daddy or someone else who is just as interesting, I'd plan days of outings like to the Houston Zoo or Children's Museum, I'd plan days of learning {the kids are I think on track but I know could use a boost!}, I'd plan days of nothing actual days when we sat and watched movies. I'd also plan dinners and Momma time. Much needed I am sure!

A big one would be help. Even if I did stay home I would still need some help. As of now, my Aunt comes by every once in a while and cleans my house, she hasn't been in over 2 months and I have managed just fine but it's the little extra help that makes for a huge difference. We also currently pay someone to do our yard and clean up outside, which is VERY helpful as my Hubby and I are so busy during the week! I would also need a Personal Assistant/Nanny, yes, trust me I have thought this out pretty well. I would need help with bills, my schedule and the kids on my "work" days. We would also need someone who we can pay and rely on to watch the kids on Date Night, also much needed. {Granted that all this is financially attainable, I like to dream big, I would so totally do and the Hubby agrees that we would need extra help!}

Me time. As I mentioned before would definitely be planned; I have though started this year off fairly well and had a least 3 girls nights already; Church, Movies and Dinner! Very important. I love crafting and writing and reading so I'd definitely have to find time to do that as well as get all my Momma/Wife duties done. Especially if I plan on making a job out of my ideas and Blog. I am really thinking big in 2012.

As of last night I started a new weekend routine. I usually wait until Sunday night to do laundry and weekly organizing but I don't want to have that anymore, it's so tiring. So, I started doing clean up and laundry last night and now we have Sunday open. For church and family time. {Confession time.} I have not been to church in about 2 months, NO BUENO. Ricardo and I want to get back on track though!

Like I said at the beginning of the year...CHANGE. Now it's all about the doing not just the saying!

Happy Saturday All.

{Irrelevance} ♥

2012-02-10T06:00:00.000-06:00

Yesterday I woke up, got the kids ready for their day at Ma'Ma's and then shoveled myself out the door onto the door step of a fresh NEW day.{Or so I thought...}

It wasn't even 9 am before I had a load dumped on my chest. Irrelevance. When it tugs it pulls. At those ever so flexible and delicate Momma heart strings. It shook me to my core and had me yelling for peace. So, I sat and I prayed...with no words and no thoughts. I have never felt so irrelevant as I have in the last oh 4 years... and it's not about my ever so amazing Momma job but about my worldly job. I think the last 4 years have been the most difficult. Transformation I am guessing. Life changes. I used to LOVE change, it used to be my middle name. Then came my children and I hid from change...ironic, I know. Not like it's a bad thing but just "what if" it's too difficult to juggle what will all my Momma duties, the world can wait...can't it?

The morning went on and I just had lots rumbling in this little overwhelmed heart of mine. Frustration set in. A bit. Didn't really know what to pray for, who to pray for, and thinking "God, what do you want me to learn from this, take from this, and grow from this? It's so unclear to me right now." The thoughts kept coming; "Dear God, What am I doing wrong? Where should I go from here?"

Prayer was in order, but I didn't even know what to pray for anymore....

The day, I knew, would be about BLAH-NESS but more so about the enemy working feverishly away at every un-salvageable piece of my concerned and weary heart. TRYING to wear me down.....

The feelings of irrelevance come and go. Good and bad. It's a constant war. But, little does the enemy know...this battle... It's already won... and the darkness may insist on taking over me but the light just SHINES too bright, right into my life.

Then God whispers..."you are NOT alone"...here are a few amazing women who will help open your heart, your eyes and your mind...and "poof"...perspective is changed and life is once more on track! Amen? Oh yes. Amen.

I am not sure if anyone needed to hear this today but me, I needed to experience it.

Everyone has bad days. We just need to know how to allow God in and flip them back around....

{Thankful Thursday} LINK UP!!!

2012-02-09T14:26:00.002-06:00

My favorite day of the week!

This week I am thankful for:

{Monster Trucks} My Husband and I had never been to the Monster Jam show here in Houston. It gave us the best opportunity to spend a whole day with my Son. We had so much fun and I am so Thankful that we got to do it. The noise we can do without but the show was pretty cool! Hearing Santi say "awe-thom" about a million times was so worth it!

{Children in my 30’s} I never thought I would end up with toddlers in my 30's. But, this weekend my Husband and I realized how much they keep us on our toes and moving. I think we needed that extra push in this next decade of life. God knew why he made us wait 10 years to have children... to SHAKE us and wake us UP! We love it. We wouldn't change a thing!

{Psalm 46} I have a Momma Devotional Bible and I have made it a point to read it more and more everyday! This week Psalm 46: 10 He says, “Be still, and know that I am God;....help start off this week...it's Thursday and I still have it deep in my heart...BE STILL. For God knows when. He really does!

What about you? What are you Thankful for this week!!??

Would love to know.

{SantiDay} ♥ Monster Jam 2012

2012-02-08T23:13:00.000-06:00

This past weekend we decided that we needed to start dedicating one day, an entire day, to our little man. It’s a difficult task being an older brother; what with all the extra mess making and tantrum throwing to assure as much attention as his chunky, big round browned eyed Lil’Nena {aka Baby Sister Cami}. We try not to make a difference between them and give them the same amount of attention but that little Sister of his is such a ham and she knows it.

We love them both the same but we just wanted to remind Santi how special he is and how much we love him. We decided to take him to this year’s Monster Jam {for you more experience Momma’s, you don’t have to wait to say “I told you so…” cause now I know} we bought our tickets early and made it a point to remind him that it would be his special day.

He loved it for about oh, a whole 10 minutes {an hour really, we were surprised he lasted that long} but we made it through the first half and by the second half… we were walking out the doors and down those ramps at Reliant Stadium….it was so worth it though, we had so much fun and so did he! Next SantiDay will have to be more age appropriate! HA. We learned a very expensive lesson today; 2 year old's don’t need expensive days out just days with lots of attention and love! He just loved being the center of attention and didn’t care where we were… he loved the Monster trucks and was only scared for a bit…

Here is our first ever {SantiDay} at Monster Jam 2012:

{Silence on a Sunday} ♥

2012-02-05T13:10:00.001-06:00

Our home is filled with noise and chaos most everyday....In reality, all day everyday. It's OK we've learned to love it, embrace it and talk over it. Ha. {If you come to our home...be ready to speak loudly and listen attentively.}

There are rare occasions like today when silence is golden and we bask in it's well, silence.This morning the Hubby had to take a quiz for one of his classes. So, I turned the television down. Took the kids into their room to clean up toys and sit and play. For that moment. For those minutes. For those seconds. There was silence. A Daddy dedicated to school {and his family}working at the computer, a Momma sitting on the floor picking up toys and playing. There was silence. There was peace.

In this silence; healing, restoration, words, faith, peace and Love. God spoke to me with His words of patience and Truth. It was nice. The silence. His words spoken so loud above the silence. His peace felt in this home. His embrace around my heart. That constant reminder that yes I am human, yes I have made mistakes, but we shouldn't judge one another and instead forgive, especially when long term friendships and family ties are at stake. Love is a constant reminder of my imperfections and His Grace and His Favor. On this silent morning I pray that my family and I are covered with both...Favor and Grace...that we are virtuous not perfect but standing firm in our beliefs and moving forward to a better place. The truth. Not popularity. That's what God has placed in my heart for this week.... Truth. Grace. Favor.

I pray. I have faith. God is good and He will restore...in this silence on a Sunday..His day... His Word. It fills me with Hope. It fills me with Love. It gives me peace. Faith and forgiveness, I am not perfect. I am faith-filled. And, yes, I am Loved.

Ecclesiastes 3

A Time for Everything

¹ There is a time for everything,
   and a season for every activity under the heavens: ² a time to be born and a time to die,
   a time to plant and a time to uproot,
³ a time to kill and a time to heal,
   a time to tear down and a time to build,
⁴ a time to weep and a time to laugh,
   a time to mourn and a time to dance,
⁵ a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them,
   a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing,
⁶ a time to search and a time to give up,
   a time to keep and a time to throw away,
⁷ a time to tear and a time to mend,
   a time to be silent and a time to speak,
⁸ a time to love and a time to hate,
   a time for war and a time for peace.

{Things I've learned} It's the weekend....

2012-02-04T05:30:00.000-06:00

As a new Momma some of you more experienced Momma's may say, "uhm duh." to me after this post..but here goes.

As a new working outside the home Momma I have learned the following about keeping up with my house chores:

Windex is your BFF. Literally. You will need it for lots of sticky icky, I have no idea what those are things.
A 20 minute tidy early in the morning can go a long way. And, can mean the difference between a meltdown after work or a smile as I walk in my house at the end of long what the heck just happened at work kinda day.
You will never confine all toys to one spot/place/toy bin/or room. Never. Ever. {Unless your kids are those type of kids that love everything clean, not in my case. At all!} My kids make it a point to make sure every livable space of our home is covered in "them." {Post at a later date about this...}
Don't ever think you will remain cute, clean and un-sweaty if you have a two year old and 10 month, ever. Ever. Those words don't exist. Ha. {Are you laughing yet? Cause I am. It's better for me...}
You can't do it all. {PERIOD}
Take a breather, the mess will be there when you get back up. {Ha.}
Your home may never be perfect but it will be filled with Love beyond your wildest dreams.
Keep lipstick and pens away from your kids, at.all.times. Unless you like them on your walls, floors, tables, doors, etc. etc.
You know those expensive pots and pans and plastic thingies under your cabinets, don't get too attached. I've learned the hard way.
When in doubt about that sticky icky, I have NO idea what THAT is kinda messes, use WINDEX. {Except remember which towel you used it with because you don't want to ACCIDENTALLY wipe your daughters sticky what is it kinda messy face with it. Just sayin'. On the bright side she was squeaky clean and smelled lemony the rest of the day...Just sayin'}
If your Hubby says "oh I'll do it", let him, you will be tired now but when you recoup you can go back and do it your way......
When you get overwhelmed. Take a break and play with your children, they won't be this little forever and when they get older they can help you clean... kinda...sorta, maybe?
Don't wear your work shoes to clean up...it's not a good idea, as cute as you may look in them...your feet will hate you in the morning when you have to put them back on and go to work for 8 whole hours or MORE the next day...Just Sayin'...
Life is too short to worry about it all, to think about it all. Some days I want to cry and scream, others I can't help but laugh and at the end of the day as I climb over mountains of toys to get to the crib and that tiny person sleeping in it...I can't help but THANK GOD every day for how amazingly Blessed I am.
Yes, it's frustrating, tiring, dirty, messy, difficult, even sad at times, but trust me, it's worth it. IT DOES GET BETTER. And life...well it goes on...and I as I always say...IT'S NOT THAT SERIOUS.
It really isn't....

All you experience Momma's please feel free to share your cleaning secrets with all us new Momma's!

{La Hermana} ♥

2012-02-03T07:30:00.000-06:00

Last month I wrote about my role as a Wife, to a student. This month I want to explore my role as an Hermana.

I am the oldest of four. {2 girls and 2 boys} No biggie I know others have 4 plus, plus siblings, I admire you.

Ever since I was younger I was "responsible" for my siblings. It's a big role for a young girl but it happens... you become your siblings keeper. You end up stressed and worried about them. Lots of pressure during my teenage years but I endured. I embraced the role and I think it helped me in becoming the Momma of Dos I am today.

The role of the older sister is not perfect. As a human being I have made mistakes and attempted to stay on track for my siblings to have a good example of a Sister. I have tried as much as I can to be strong, stable and accountable. You attempt to give your siblings space, room to make their own mistakes, so that they may learn what God has intended for them to learn but still you attempt to provide protection, as much as you can. It's a difficult role, you are not their Momma yet they look to you for advice. I think that because of that, we can be a ~~little~~ more real and raw since we know there may not be any "real" boundaries of respect but as age comes so does wisdom and respect and space just grows. You learn when to speak up and when to be quiet. You are not their Momma but still you have advice.

For years, I think that my role was more of caring and protecting. Then I slipped into the selfish years when I attempted to create and make my own little life and to grow a family of my own...at this point I think that the distance grew between my siblings and myself as the age difference began to well, make a difference. Then came the years when we all grew up. It was weird. It was tough. We grew apart and close all at once.

We overcame those days of pain and struggle as a family and became individuals.

Strong. Learning. Growing. Loving. Creating. Believing. Leading. Abiding. Guiding.

Today, we have a loving friendship of space, respect and agreeing to disagree episodes. It's a difficult role being an older sister but I feel like I have embraced it. I pray that my siblings see me as a person who they love and respect. I love all 3 of them and I know that when it comes down to it, they will all be OK.

Our childhood memories, pains and struggles fade into yesterday and our lives as partners, parents, and adults are prominent. We will be OK, or so I pray. Our upbringing has been a trying one..but we have endured... we have overcome...or so I pray.

I also pray for my son, as an older brother. That he may feel that sense of responsibility for his sister but only to a certain extent.

As an older sister I have learned a lot about parenting and life. Being an older sibling in general is a tough role..but someones got to do it, right?!

At my graduation from the University of Houston, 2005 {Taken by Amelia Garcia}

{Thankful Thursday} Link Up!

2012-02-02T09:27:00.000-06:00

Is it crazy that it was only Monday and I was already writing my post for Thursday! I know a LOT can happen between Monday and Thursday but I just want to get my list started ....

This week I am most Thankful for:

{G.N.O} That's right GIRL'S NIGHT OUT. Not like most would think tho. This was a Blessed girls night out! And, I loved it. Every year KSBJ, Houston's local Christian Radio station hosts a "G.N.O". I went two years ago with one my Bestie's Casey. Couldn't go last year, I think I was super preggers or something... And, this year...WOW. Captured. Captivated. Changed and Beyond Blessed. Those were the words in my mind as I drove home I went with another one of my Bestie's Yvonne. All I can say is, IT WAS AN AMAZING NIGHT. Amazing.

{Sunday Night Races} That's right. This past Saturday was my Nephew's 2nd Birthday, we had the party at the park in my neighborhood. So, Sunday everyone came over for the all famous Mexican recalentado {basically we eat up all the leftover food from the night before and since everything has to be re-heated..well we call it...recalentado!} It was a great weekend. I am so Thankful for a Sister and a Beautiful God given Nephew, a brother to my Dos. Not sure how it all started but everyone was so full and in need of some sort of exercise, so my Husband suggested racing each other....IT WAS SO MUCH FUN! SO MUCH.

{Exercise} Yes, you read correctly, that's not a typo. I actually said I am thankful for exercise. After your shock of "YOU? CONNIE, YOU EXERCISED?" thought runs out, here is what happened...I want to make all these changes {baby steps remember} well Sunday night after all that racing I felt good and late at night while I was in the middle of house chores I took a break in my room to exercise. It was good oh, 20 minutes, hey don't laugh, it was a really productive 20 minutes. Anyway. Every time I did a sit up Camila would come and lay across my stomach, she was being super sweet and supportive of her Momma. I loved it. I was spending time with her and working out, nothing better than that!

What are you Thankful for this week??

{What day is today?}... and who are those kids calling me Momma....

2012-02-01T15:43:00.000-06:00

I looked at my calendar this morning at work and thought "WHAAAAAT? FEBRUARY!!! WHA'CHU'TALKIN'BOUT'WILLIS!"

Wow. Feels like I blinked New Years Eve and now it's FEBRUARY! You know how some months just give you a bad outlook...like... "Aghhhhrrr! January is gonna be sooooo loooooong!" And, by the time you realize it, it's a whole new month!

Well, since I am planning Cami's first birthday in March I have a feeling February, will not be long enough! I don't want to panic, I pretty much have a plan, I just have to set it in motion. Soon, I hope.

I am not sure what is going on with me but I haven't felt that Blogsperation {it's a real word, in.this.Blogworld.} the way I did at the beginning of January. I love writing but I guess a little bit of stress is dragging me down. I hope February provides some writable inspiration!

In the mean time..I have been pinning. Like crazy. I love it.

Click HERE{PINTRESTLOVE} to follow me!

I've even started to make some of those very pins. I will share later on my Crafty Blog!

About the kids... they have been sick, I have been blah and some morning I can't help but think who are these kids and why are they calling me Momma??? You know what I mean? I guess it's just been THAT kind of day, week and maybe even month....BUT GUESS WHAT. TODAY. IS A NEW DAY. A NEW MONTH. Lets forget about it all and MOVE FORWARD. I am looking forward to this weekend. Lots of fun things scheduled.

Psalm 30:5 {New International Version}

5 For his anger lasts only a moment,

but his favor lasts a lifetime;

weeping may stay for the night,

but rejoicing comes in the morning.

Have a GREAT, BLESSED day everyone!

{G.N.O.} ♥

2012-01-31T00:28:00.000-06:00

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.

{Thankful Thursday} LINK UP! ♥

2012-01-26T11:17:00.000-06:00

It's Thursday!!!! You know what that means!!!

Yep.

Here we go:

{"Well-Behaved" Children} Duh. Who isn't? But, you see I have a rambunctious terrible 2 and a feisty sneaky 10 month old. I am always, always fearing being "that Momma", "that family", "those parents" with "those kids". I don't care too much about judgement but it just takes a lot out of me ...physically. Lately though we noticed that going out to eat at an actual sit down restaurant with people in it, has become easier. Yes. That word doesn't really belong in our vocabulary these days..but it has been. Cami and Santi have been very well behaved at our last TWO dinners out in public. They do great in shopping carts at grocery stores but eating out was one of our least conquered fears but I think it's safe to say...we've overcome! I am proud of us, my kids and our faith in them.

{A New Day} This year is all about CHANGE as you may have read in my previous POST, but it's amazing how when you pray about it, go to bed and wake up with new Hope...things really do look better, seem better and get better! I think perspective and truth are everything...get some...of both...and life will be that much sweeter...

{Thursday's} I have always been scared to "link up" and share my Blog with too many people, what if I can't keep up, what if I can't come through with a good post, what if no one likes me but they don't know how to tell me not to link up to their blog....well when I decided to join the Thankful Thursday Link Up I let go of all the what-if's and moved on to the what-IS! And, what has been, is a great experience and opportunity to meet and chit-chat with many awesome Bloggers...all over the US. I love that. I love my little Blogging community that has formed over the years... everyone is just awesome!

Well, what are you Thankful for today???

Also this week, linking up with:

http://www.katesaysstuff.com/

and

{M.I.A.} on the B.L.O.G

2012-01-25T23:50:00.000-06:00

One of my biggest challenges {motivations} for 2012 is fueled by "that" word... you know the one.... the "C" word...

Cha-Cha-CHHHHANGE.

Change requires a lot of different steps {& personal effort}. I think.

First off, you have to realize what it is you want to change {one thing at a time cause it doesn't happen over night and if you put too much on your plate... you will end up overwhelmed. Just sayin'}

Once you know you want to change something you are fully admitting and taking responsibility for that "issue" in your life, that "trouble spot" if you will {these spots sometimes hinder your life in big ways and you don't even know it}.

Moving On.

You then put thought into the change; device a plan...an outline, goals, to-do list in order to accomplish this change. Example: I am fat. {I am. Not being mean just real!} I know I am fat. I accept it. I want to eat better and exercise {definitely has NOT happened BY.THE.WAY.} My plan: I will buy more fruits and veggies and create a whole new eating schedule and meal plans. I will replace all evil with good. {Like drink lots of water instead of Dr. Pepper all day! Just sayin'...} I will in addition make it an absolute point to exercise at least TWICE a week {cause we don't want to get overwhelmed ::wink wink::}.

So, once I have thought about it and said, "hmmm this is what I will do." I then put my words in action. Make it happen. Do what I said I would do...but then, I am set back..placed right back at step one..thinking..mediating. Deciding that what I am doing is really good for me, that it's what I really want...in all, talking it over with not only yourself but God {and your Bestie, she will have some real insight!}. I know what I want to do, but what will come from it, aside from a ~~killer bod~~, I mean...health and inner strength! What will I do to make my change last, how will I keep up with what I have learned and continue to apply it in my everyday life? What does it really mean to me? Who is here for support? {Support and prayer to me is a big part of all my current changes..more so prayer...}

It's this time, this mediation time that requires...well time. Hence the M.I.A. I am finding myself going back to what I said I would do more this year...and yes..I have fallen off the bandwagon a bit but I don't care and I don't want to give up! I insist that change, CHANGE is what God has placed in my heart! Deeply rooted and planted...waiting to be watered and fertilized for TRUE growth that will endure and overcome... any stormy day!

But, no worries... I will overcome and move on... move forward and attempt to keep up...2012 is the YEAR!

I can feel it....

{Day~25} 365

2012-01-25T11:30:00.000-06:00

{Follow and Be Lead}

2012-01-20T14:19:00.004-06:00

Happy Friday Everyone!

I don't know about you but there are moments when I know for sure that God's plan is working in our lives {my Hubby and I}. This week the message in my mind and heart have been to simply FOLLOW Him. God has always been ever present in our lives. Trust me, Ricardo and I have been through so much together, things that when I look back and think about it, I am proud of us to have stuck it out..well, together! Ricardo has never left my side and I have never thought of leaving his. We get angry and we work through, with each other. I have always been one to think of Ricardo as the leader in our family, but this week I am thinking that God is trying to tell us to just stop and go back to following Him. His lead, His guidance, His light.

Just the other day I went to the chapel at church and a couple who was expecting a baby walked in after me and it came to me. Sometimes we just have to go back to that baby stage and start over with baby steps. For us one HUGE baby step that we have been meaning to get back to is church..I know it's been at least 2 months since we went... Not GOOD! At all.

We feel the need and this weekend we will make it a priority to get back to church. We need it.

Just something in my deep little heart today.... thought I would share...

Hope everyone has a great Friday!

“And so we shall all come together to that oneness in our faith and in our knowledge of the Son of God; we shall become mature people, reaching to the very height of Christ's full stature.” (Ephesians 4:13)

{Thankful Thursday's} LINK UP!

2012-01-19T08:30:00.001-06:00

Hello All, guess what? It's THURSDAY again...YAY!

My favorite part of Thursday's aside from the fact that it brings us closer to Friday is the ever so fun Thankful Thursday Link Up! I love it!!!

This week I am most Thankful for:

{Slow Days} As many of you may know, I work in the Elections Department and well when it's not Election season, we have slow days when we play catch up and get small projects done and ready for Election season to kick in. But, it also gives us time to schedule things like doctor appointments and get personal things done that you can't get done during Election season. It's a Blessing I've grown accustom to and Thank God cause this week I have already had to go to the doctor twice, my kids are sick and this morning..it was my turn!

{Prayer} I have been praying a lot for different reasons..and it give me peace. Nuff'said!

{Creativity} I love seeing other creative Momma's put their Pintrest motivation in motion..it inspires me to want to get my Creative On!

{Family} They get me through my days and weeks and listen to me gripe and explore new possibilities every week... I love them!

Day~18 {365}

2012-01-18T21:32:00.001-06:00

Day~17 {365}

2012-01-17T10:00:00.000-06:00

{Inspired}

2012-01-17T08:40:00.000-06:00

We all know that inspiration sometimes comes from unlikely places, people or situations, except after "c". Or something to that effect...

A fellow Momma Blogger wrote..I ramble on sometimes and make no sense. Don't we all feel that way? Some days we just move, do and go about our day without even thinking that what we write, do or say may just ignite a spark in someone else.{It happens, just like this post was inspired by her comment and my friend Casey's post on FB.}

My de-cluttering phase started last year. In trying to clean out and make room for my second baby. I really think I have made HUGE progress but I feel like I can make more. I need more time and thought. Recently one of my Bestie's {Casey}came over and took some things from my garage, she then said, I inspired {motivated} her to get rid of things.

Here is how I thought about it. While I was cleaning out my garage my friend gave away my Hubby's punching bag, my Hubby was mad and I told him this... If there was a fire I would grab Camila and Santiago and get out of dodge. The house and everything in it could burn down to the ground {knock on wood} as long as the kids were OK, I didn't care about loosing materialistic things. Therefore, if I have already imaginarily {it's a word, I googled it.} lost it in a fire, then I can get rid of it in real life? Right? Yeees. It's so easy to get caught up in sentimental value of objects but I think that as long as my children, Hubby and family are OK, I am OK without things.

Therefore another key word this year is: SIMPLIFY. {Other word was CHANGE! I guess they go hand in hand. Change involves being simple. I think....}

{It's happens...} Life.

2012-01-16T15:44:00.001-06:00

This is what happens when you spend a few days without posting..lots of post come to mind...

As part of my Non-New Years Resolutions, I decided to de-clutter, in so many ways.

One item that I thought of was my fridge. It becomes living proof that a busy family occupies this space! Ha.

Throughout the year calendars, invitations, birthday cards, pictures, children's art work and other useful and very important documents get magnetically adhered to the fridge. I love it. So, I cleared it up for 2012's life to happen...

Here is our before picture {believe it or not this is clutter free}:

JANUARY 2012 {Before}

Day~16 {365}

2012-01-16T14:49:00.000-06:00

{Falling Off} Means getting back up again....

2012-01-16T11:39:00.000-06:00

I was all like "YEAH! I'm gonna do this. This year I will be a Supa'Star Blogger and Blog everyday and post pictures every day!" then I was all like, "Yeah, I got to go back to work, I am super tired and I don't feel like posting today!" {Whoa!}

Ha.

Well, I have fallen off the whole 365 project for about a week or so but you know what, that's OK, there is no "Blogger-Police" who is gonna give me a huge Blogger-Ticket cause I have not been keeping up with my non-New Years Resolution list. If there is, don't tell him/her where I am! Ha.

There is beauty in falling flat on your face. {Yes, I said it. I am Human. I make mistakes but...} There is no affect or effect on others, only on yourself. And, you know what? All you can do is get back up again...literally dust yourself off and keep moving FORWARD. How sad would it be if I fell on my face and remained there? I mean. How heartbreaking for me. How disappointing for me. The best thing about starting a new year is being a new you. I am done with dwelling on things, situations, people, me, everything. I am moving on.

Well after that little heart wrenching moment, let me continue with this.

I have some small projects this week...

I have Photoshop on my computer. I have never used it. {Now is when you can yell at me.} I need to learn how to use it. So, this week I will do as much research as need be to learn.

I am also on a mission to print pictures, book a Birthday session for Cami's {First Birthday portraits!} and get pictures framed. We shall see how that goes!

There is LOTS brewing in the Gomez household most of which I wish to keep to myself... {No, I am not pregnant...but we have been talking about Numero TRES a lot, but future...future... } I am just constantly praying for God to give us guidance and peace in all of our choices in 2012.

I have started to plan Cami's first birthday and praying about Ricardo's graduation party. Fun. Fun.

I have gotten, I think, a lot of my chest in the last few weeks..mostly in talking to my Sister and my Hubby.... this weekend with my Sis-in-Law and a few good friends.. I think peace will be achievable in 2012. Finally.

Well Happy Monday to All!

{Frequently Asked Questions and Blog Advice!}

2012-01-12T17:30:00.000-06:00

From me!!!?? OH MY!

I don't have this section on my home page yet, because I still considered myself a Baby-Blogger, Ha. But, I am so very humbled that new Momma Bloggers and my readers would even be interested in my Blog advice {and life!}!

Thank You so much!

Please know that I more than happy to read and respond to your emails and questions any time: mommaofdos@gmail.com

Here we go:

{These questions have all been sent in by readers and/or friends who want to start Blogging..I am in no way an expert nor do I consider myself a Professional Blogger but I don't mind sharing like with everything else in my life...how, what, where or when?}

The first question that I have been getting a lot, A LOT lately is this....

1. Momma, how in the world do you find time to Blog, Pin, FB, upload so many pictures, Twitter and email with Dos babies and a Hubby calling your name every minute?

Honestly, I have no idea. Ha. I make time. I am up late. A lot. No bueno, I know. I also have a Hubby who understands that I love to share and Blog and take pictures; most night he stands behind me at the computer saying.... "are you ready to go to bed yet?" Some nights I say, Nope. Others I run to my pillow. I also have a good set of kids who have at this point gotten used to Momma sitting at the computer a LOT. What I like to do is DART home, clean up, feed the kids and then while I wait for the Hubby, I compute and surf! Especially on nights when he goes to school..it's easier..less explaining and more time to think... Most night my kids will sleep through my writing. If I am realllyyyy hooked on something, I don't sleep and then do it all again in the morning. My house is a mess some nights and I still sit and think and type... On really good days when the Hubby says I am picking up dinner and my Aunt who sometimes helps me clean happenes to drop by, I get LOTS and LOTS of free time. But, I figured that if I ever want to do this FT, I would want to wait until I can afford a Nanny and a Personal Assistant...Heyyy Dooce has is...why can't I!?

Second pregunta: Momma, how did you get started in Bloggy-Land?

Well, it just happened. Back in 2008 {Presidential, I work in Elections so I think in terms of types of Elections..any who} I started at my current place of business. I needed to practice my writing and also kills some down time. So, I started writing. I had NO idea what Blogging was all about but once I figured it out...I couldn't stop. I was addicted. Then, I got pregnant and had my son and had SO much more to share..and well then I got pregnant again and yeah... the rest is historia...

Next question please {Ha.}: Momma, I don't understand how Blogger works and what's the difference between this and Wordpress?

Honestly, to figure out Blogger {which by the way...goes on a trip some days but I love you Blogger!} it just takes some time and just really messing with all the settings and buttons... I have tutorials on how to do certain things but then Blogger updates and changes so often, I am not sure if they are right or not..about the difference between Wordpress and Blogger for me it was a matter of design, Wordpress was simple and business like and Blogger just seemed more user friendly and fun! It's a matter of taste, I know a lot of Blogger's who use Wordpress and love it. I personally prefer Blogger. {Except when it's being whack! Ha.}

Fourth question: Momma, what kind of camera do you use? I don't have a super fancy anything I use my little Nikon P-80, it has grown on me but this Momma needs an upgrade! Maybe 2012 is the year for upgrades! Ha. I hope.

Question # 5: Momma, what program do you use to edit your pictures? I downloaded this program called Photoscape from Google and loved it. I am not a Photoshop expert but I do have it on my computer..horrible I know.... I will learn...one day soon!

Question # 6: Momma, what are your kid's names and how did you come up with them? Well, my son is Santiago Isaias; My Hubby and I just fell in love with the name Santiago, my Hubby is a huge Salsa fan..and he thinks the name Santiago Gomez makes for a very popular Salsa singer... {now we have to wait a few years and see if Santiago is even interested in Salsa or singing!} But, we gave him the name just in case... both his names are in the Bible and that was awesome too! My daughter...the amazing Camila Isabel, was derived also from Music! Go figure....Camila is our favorite Mexican Pop group! So, ever since we discovered their music, we have loved the name...as for Isabel. My Hubby is a HUGE movie buff! Yes, movies..music... he loves it all. His favorite movie is Legends of the Fall, if you've seen the movie then you know... if you haven't, the beautiful Native American girl in this movie is Isabel Two...the rest well is historia...

Number 7: Momma, is your Hubby an artist or musician?? UHM no. He thinks he is..but he is a Construction Management nerd by day and an ultra I think I am super hip guy from the 70's Hubby and Daddy by night! Ha! {Ok, I made this question up! Ha. It's fun.}

Pregunta Ocho: Momma, what is your ethnic background? I am a very proud Mexican-American. My parents were both born and raised in Mexico and came to the U.S. when they got married they later had me and my siblings. For the most part, I identify more with my Mexican side than with my American side. I speak mucho Español, me encantan los frijoles negros con epazote and tortillas de harina. But, I can also have a good plate of Tex-Mex enchiladas and feel good. I am really a mix of Border Town {Mission/Reynosa} Norteña and deep south Mexican roots {Temixco, Morelos!}. I love Pozole and I would kill for some taquitos de orjea o de tripas con cebolla y cilantro, and of course I love spicy salsa! I can dance cumbias all night but once those Chinelos come on....I just can't sit down! {That's me, Mexi-Mexi!}

Question # 9: Momma, where does your daily inspiration come from? Everywhere and everyone. First and foremost; Jesus. My faith and my beliefs. I love His word and reading my Bible. Then of course my everyday life with my Hubby and children. They are so amazing and special, a true gift from God, I love them more than life! Then just in general, everyday occurrences with life, my job, my friends, people who I meet, people who I walk by, my daily observations. Inspiration is around us and in us. I can't get enough..Oh yes and Pintrest of course! Ha.

Finally numero 10! Momma, why are you so awesome? Ha. Joke. Not a real question... Momma, who designed your Blog Page? I used to do all my own designs and even messed with making my own headers and what not...but more recently I have not had time and I asked an awesome fellow Houston Momma Blogger to help me out and she so awesomely transformed by page a while back... I think I will have to contact her soon to create something for 2012 for me! Her name is Jamie K. and here is her Blog link: http://www.designsbyjamiek.blogspot.com/

My Best Blog advice is just do it! Jump into it and even if you are not a super writer {which I am not} you will at least have a journal to go back to one day for yourself, for your kids and for your family! Even if you start and then fall off the bandwagon...keep pushing forward and when you can, get back to it. Life is crazy and hectic not everyone has time to write but trust me it's worth it if you can find the time. I have chronicled my life the last almost 4 years and I can't wait to print it out and look back..on my growth, on my faith, on my life...

Be the best you...for you and trust me everything else will fall into place!

If you have any other questions don't hesitate in emailing me.... even if I take long to reply...I do read and I will reply...promise! mommaofdos@gmail.com

{Thankful Thursday's} LINK UP BABY!

2012-01-12T16:18:00.000-06:00

So, I was so busy in thought that I almost forgot today is THURSDAY! Yay...

Any whoooo.....

This week I am most Thankful for:

Endless Possibilities: God is really taking Team Gomez to new heights for new beginnings...we have A LOT going on. I wish I could say more but we just have to wait for God to continue to reveal and fill us with truth! We love it. It's so awesome in our little home right now. I love it.

Reconnecting! ~ So, I have had many many wonderful friends in my life, in the last 10 year or so. Some are still here others have moved on and just recently a few have reconnected with me. {Thank You wonderful world of FB!} Just last night I had a late night conversation abut life, change and the future with a dear old friend..who is just as sweet as she was 4 years ago when I last had an every day phone conversation with her! {Love it.}

Self-Control: I am slowly learning it. As someone who is always so eager with words and gestures...the words self-control make me nervous. But, it's been repeated to me again, once more today. And, I thank everyone for being so honest and sincere. No, I don't always have to tell the world EXACTLY what I am feeling it's ok to keep some of those words inside sometime..healthy maybe even for your own sake! I can't tell you much..I have to practice my self-control! Ha.

Guess what everyone! Tomorrow es Viernes!!! Gracias a Dios!!! {Thank God!} My body is so still on vacation mode! Ahiii.

Happy Thursday!!! What are you Thankful for today??

Uhm did she just say...what I think she said?

2012-01-12T00:39:00.000-06:00

That word...that question...

I always hear of women who have more than two children and think wow...HOW? First one says;" I have 3", the next one "Oh I have 4", and then...the one that just takes your breath away... "I have 6 children; I had four naturally and I adopted 2." My thought..." I have TWO and I want to pluck my eyes out everyday..." {Joke..only every other day...HA!}

That word... adoption. The question of how many kids do you have? One to be admired. One to be encouraged by. We don't say it often but when we do we mean it. My Husband and I have had fertility issues in the past, before we had our son that word came up...adoption. We didn't know how it would be, if it would happen. Our "plan" { which of course only God knows if we are able to or not} was to have three children of our own and then adopt. Maybe one. Maybe two.

When I hear of it being done. A Momma with four of her natural born children and then two adopted, I look at her in awe of admiration. My heart fills with joy and faith. To be so Blessed. To be so happy. To be a Momma to children who need you. I love that. I think deep down inside...we both want that... God knows and he will know...

What about you? Has adoption ever been mentioned in your family? I'd love to hear from you....

The Student's Wife ♥

2012-01-10T16:00:00.000-06:00

When I came up with the whole... "yeah, I'm gonna write about my Identity, thing"..it seemed a whole lot easier... Then, I read Vanessa's post and thought, WOW! I was even more inspired about the whole.."YEAH, I'M GONNA WRITE ABOUT MY IDENTITY, THING!"

Then for 2 nights in a row...stuck...like no joke....

Then I thought...what makes me, me? What makes me, Ricardo's wife?

My Husband is a student. He is 32 years old and God willing after many, many years of sacrifice he will be graduating this Summer! {Go Coogs!}

When I look at him I see faith, strength, and courage. Night after night of studying, working during the day, coming home to be a Husband and a Daddy. I am not perfect {duh!}. I gripe. I complain. I go on and on about everything that bugs me, things I want and live for, my passions, my creative peaks, my creative ruts, my wants, my needs, my LOVES{my children}, my friends, my family, my faith, my job..... {and on and on....} Some days he would come home and tell me he wasn't going to make it through the semester and he wasn't going to do school anymore... He was just going to quit.

As a wife...I'd step in and step up. I'd put that thinking cap of encouragement on and snap on my Faith cap..I have needed it most {a many of} nights...It's not easy. To see him suffer. To see him doubt. It hurts me. Some nights my tears put me to sleep as I listened to his tears fall on his pillow in the dark... it's been a ride. Trust me, it's been a ride. TRUST ME.

I have learned to; uplift, pray, support, encourage, some days just let it be, some nights just sit in the still quiet, other nights remind him that he'd come this far..there was no WAY in the world I would let him give up..not for us, not for him and not for anyone. He gets discouraged, people don't see him the way I do. He sees me the way others don't. That's when it hit me...I am THIS Student's Wife and he gets that, many don't, many won't..ever.

He struggles with everyday life, work life, family life, school life and still he has accomplished. He has overcome. I love it. He has faith. He has prayer. I love him. He is my strength when I am weak, my motivation when I have none... He is himself for me...

Where does that leave me? As his support, as his friend, as his cheerleader, as his coach, as his personal assistant, as his wife, as his everyday reminder of what we are working towards... of our goals and wants, some days of our basic needs. I am ME for him, I am a Student's Wife, and I love it. Simple. Sincere. Upbeat and upfront. Honest and Loving. Supportive and caring. Trying to make our own little way. Our own little life with our own little mistakes...we learn we grow. I am ME, for him... he is himself for ME.

Picture taken in 2006 by Amelia Garcia {Edited by Momma of Dos 2012}

To my Husband:

You may not know this, but I love being a Student's Wife it keeps me on my feet and it keeps me alert! I Love you.

{He'll read this one day..he goes through my Blog sometimes..he doesn't admit to it..but he does... }

Being your Wife has given me new confidence, new courage and new strength to move forward. Motivation and encouragement to think BIG, to plan ahead and to be well organized! Thank You for giving me a job to do when you are away... and when you are near... I am your wife... and you are a student!

Love you more than you know,

The Student's Wife

{Houston...we have un problemo!} Literally.

2012-01-09T12:01:00.001-06:00

So, my 365 project has been temporarily compromised..... I need a backup camera in 2012....

You see wha'ha'happen was?

The battery on my camera died on me...all the way dead, and my charger was on the other side of Houston at my Momma's casa. Ahii. I will get my charger today...catch up on my pictures and post for my 365 project and move forward with what has literally started off as a VERY productive and positive year! I can't wait for the rest of 2012 because I am thinking MORE and MORE as the days go by that this is really going to be a GREAT year! Why wouldn't it be huh?!

We had a GREAT weekend... had a little Momma guilt Saturday night. I still can't manage to go out on date nights with the Hubby without feeling like a horrible Momma! It's hard. I know, I am probably being a little over dramatic but I couldn't have a good time without thinking that my kids were at their Ma-Maw's home without us but God always has a way of making us feel more at ease...

We went out for a friends birthday, my friend has four lovely girls and of course we started talking about them and sharing pictures and the other couple sitting with us...also three lovely children..so guess what, we talked about our kids and felt a lot better about being out and having fun but also being able to incorporate our kids who we ABSO-MUCHO LOVE!

It's Monday... YAY! ::totally NOT being sarcastic:: I really do love Monday's! But, it's gloomy here in Houston..I think some tornado's actually made land fall this morning... Any way!

Oh yes and this whole Identity Crisis series has started off a little more difficult than I expected!!! Wow. I really have to put some thought into that one...

Also, I AM SOOO LOVING JON ACUFF. He is sooo awesome !

Lovely and Blessed week to EVERYONE in Bloggy~Land and away!!!

{Y tu quien Eres?} Series Introduction

2012-01-07T05:00:00.000-06:00

One night I was thinking about my role in my Husband's life and who I am to others. Then I thought about other roles and titles that I have take on as the years have gone by. So, I decided to write about them...I am was going to call these posts; my Week of Identity! Then, over the last two weeks I did a lot of Blog-catching up and I read a fellow Momma Blogger's post about her identity search! I thought; WOW, I am not the only one! How awesome is that?

I invite you to join me on this exploration of who I am, who I have been, who I have become and where I want to go. I also invite you to share your roles and who you are and how you see yourself.

Embracing who you are is such an important step in your life. I learned it early on as a teenager and then later as a college student, then as a wife, now as a Momma of Dos I find it even more crucial to understand ME. To know ME. Often I feel like we fail at ourselves without even trying to get to know OURSELVES.

That's just me and this is my own personal journey. New year. New Me. Changes. Learning. Growth.

Needless to say it's going to take far more than a week, so I am calling my post about Identity...

"Y tu quien Eres? {My personal Identity crisis and journey to finding it....}

HA!

{Baby steps, an Epiphany, & Respect}

2012-01-06T17:30:00.000-06:00

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!

{ Notes & Reminders} 365 ♥

2012-01-06T06:30:00.000-06:00

{So, I have to find a way to make things balanced..some for Cami and others for Santi and confession, these are picture I took over my vacation I needed to share! I love her! }

#6 You are an amazing little lady, don't ever let anyone tell you otherwise.... EVER.

{Thankful Thursdays} LINK UP!

2012-01-05T22:30:00.002-06:00

It's a little late in the day but never too late to be Thankful....

This week I am most Thankful for:

My Supportive Husband {Don't get me wrong, he isn't a passive Husband at all. If I am wrong, he tells me I am wrong. I don't mind it. It makes me more aware of what I need to work on. But, when I am right he stands firmly next to me!}

Short weeks {This week I only worked 3 days, I was on vacation for 2 and 1/2 weeks before then! All I can say is THANK GOD for short weeks! Ha.}

Shoe Sale!{Yes, that's right. I just had to do it. When I was younger and before I had kids I would buy myself Jessica Simpson shoes without thinking twice about how much they cost. This week I found a pair on sale for $38.00 and I clung to them like my life depended on it. I had to have them BUT only if they were on sale. HA!}

Future Dates { This week I set the date for my daughters FIRST birthday and I am so excited. I also looked at college graduation dates and rings! One proud wife!}

{BTW this is the THANKFUL THURSDAY OF 2012! Yay!!}

{Notes and Reminders}

2012-01-05T22:07:00.002-06:00

{365}

#5 Learn to laugh at yourself, because honestly..it's NOT that serious...{Remember that when days aren't going your way.}

{Grace} ♥

2012-01-05T16:07:00.000-06:00

My husband’s favorite word is virtuous. {"Connie be virtuous", he says} He uses it a lot. Mine is Grace or Favor. Either way, we show our virtue by being graceful. I love talking to my Husband about our Faith, about Faith in general and about what we believe. He always has the best, most direct and open insight. We grew up differently and it’s so true that opposites attract. We are night and day. He has given me new confidence, a better meaning of courage, and definitely a more open EYED view on life! He taught me not to be so gullible and not to believe in everyone or everything they tell me. He taught me to really get to know people before I said how amazing they were! I was young and naive, still some days are not good in that aspect. Oh well. Such is life and we learn.

Well, today I received one of my usual daily inspiration emails from The Daily Love Blog and this was part of the Blog:

“Sometimes our biggest problem is the greatest act of Grace. What seems like horror, terror or really bad luck is the event that we needed in order to heal our wounds, step out into our power and then use our experience, strength and hope to help other people come out of their darkness. Grace can feel like a soft feather and sometimes Grace can be a kick in the teeth (or worse).”

I thought that was so perfectly described. Some days I feel like my grace has been enough and sufficient for others to realize that what I say and do is from my heart and not to hurt. I am what I think and I wear it on my lips… I know not good but it’s true. I talk. A lot. About it all. Hence, the blog. Then there are days when I am so humbled and at times humiliated that I don’t feel like I have done enough to win back truth and reputation. But, guess what? Yep you guessed it…such is life. These things have to happen….for me to grow, to learn and to heal. I realize every day that, I am not perfect, that people are not perfect and that life may never be perfect. What I do know is that I can strive to be a BETTER ME {there is that two letter word again...ME. I think it's the 2012 theme..to be a better ME, to worry about ME not so much others... selfish maybe but I think it's necessary at times...}, every day in every way! That’s what I want for 2012!

Yes, it’s only day 5, but I feel a lot MORE confident this year than I did last year…no matter what discoursing words {or gestures; as my Husband learned a couple of nights ago that a shrug of the shoulders can be worth a thousand words…} people send our way, no matter what setbacks or disappointments life may bring…life goes on! AND YES. Such is life, that we must MOVE FORWARD. NO.MATTER.WHAT.EVERY.SINGLE.DAY.

I was feeling a little blue over New Year’s Eve, but this New Year has just really allowed me to MOVE on and LIVE MY LIFE; with my Husband and my children. Life is beautiful and worth living. We just have to work at it every day past others and what they may or may not think about you. I am fully inspired to be inspired and inspire this year!

{I know you may be thinking..."Whoa Connie slow down...day 5 and already you are in that change the world mode?" Well it's that kind of a year..it's that kind of a week..I WANT IT TO BE THAT KIND OF A FUTURE FOR MY LITTLE FAMILY! I have the BEST most POSITIVE feeling EVER about TEAM GOMEZ and Oh the places we will go.... ONLY GOD KNOWS!}

grace.

I want it.

I need it.

I breath it.

I love it.

GRACE!

Make it a GRACE FILLED day!

Notes & Reminders {365}

2012-01-04T22:58:00.002-06:00

# 4 Your Dad and I love you, more than we could have ever imagined.....

{365}

2012-01-03T20:51:00.000-06:00

#3 Your faces fill my heart with joy....EVERY.SINGLE.DAY without fail. {I love you!}

Taking back my LIFE! {Semana: Six!}

2012-01-03T13:54:00.001-06:00

About 6 weeks ago I promised myself to push past the pain. Deal with whatever my body was going through and move forward with LIFE!

You see I started reading ALWAYS LOOKING UP by Michael J. Fox and after only a couple of pages I was fully inspired by his pain. Literally. He is amazing. The thought process that he has to go through to get out of BED is just incredible. Will make anyone rethink what they are complaining about...especially ME!

{Source}

I think I have managed to overcome the pain of my Kidney Stone problem and surgery fairly well. I am feeling almost at 100% these days. I didn't go back to the doctor from the fear of the words "another surgery" coming out of her mouth. So I finished my meds, started natural supplements and just coping with the everyday pain as it slowly faded into the back of my thoughts...

Now, I want more pain free days so I plan to make one more major doctor appointment and start eating better and exercising. I am 30, I need to start sometime. I had done really good throughout my 20's some years are blur others I have pictures to prove I was a size 2! I will never be at a 2 again, not sure that, that's where I want to be. But, I do want to be a healthy person and good size 10! I love being a size 10 it's my ideal size, for now I am a 14 on good days and a 16 on my blah days. I deal. Ha.

Today I plan to read more of my book and see how much more inspiration and motivation I can pile up into my week. The first week of 2012 is looking really good! I love it.

I know I will be fully motivated...THE BIGGEST LOSER STARTS TONIGHT!!! LOVE THAT SHOW! Always sooo full of hope! American Idol starts in a couple weeks tooooo! Other fav!

Hope your first week of 2012 is grand! Make it a good one!

{365} Notes {& Reminders} to my Children

2012-01-02T22:45:00.002-06:00

I started a new daily project for this year.... click HERE for the first installment... and here is today's....

#2 Life will take you down many roads; remember to always look to each other for support{Your Dad and I will be here for back up..} 

{S@HM!}

2012-01-02T13:31:00.002-06:00

For 2 weeks I was in Love! I became...temporarily... a Stay@HomeMomma! I love being home with my children, if I could do it permanently, I would. If I could be a Stay@HomeMomma permanently I would probably attempt to start my own business, no, not photography! I love taking pictures but it's an art that I am yet to master. If I had a nice camera and could take better pictures of my children, it would be all I ask for, HA! One day.

Going back to work on Wednesday is going to be a challenge number one; waking up at 5am again is going to break me! Ha. Then, I have to get dressed, get my kids up and dressed and everyone ready all before 6:30am. It's 1pm today, we are all still in our PJ's! Secondly, leaving my children again. It's always, always been a challenge for me. It had just gotten better around October so we shall see. It breaks my heart to drop them off and walk away. But, times are of struggles and sacrifices so I must do it. Life goes on. My kids will once more adjust, the question is, will I? Then there is all the in-between; the morning smiles and snuggling, the afternoon laughter and tears, the "Mom, ahhhh SHREK!", and Cami's gibberish and coo's. It's all the little things that I miss on a day to day...that I will miss... such is life. I must trust in God.

One day.

It's a difficult task for me to be a Momma who works outside the home, it's one that even after almost 2 and a half years, I still can't shake. I was never once to think that being a Stay@HomeMomma was even an option. I thought I will always work outside the home and it will be okay! Then I had my son, and all I wanted was to be at home. Then I got preggers again, and I definitely knew being a Stay@HomeMomma at 30 was all I wanted to do!

One day.

But, the year ahead is a long one and who knows what plans God has for us. In the mean time. All I know is that I must FOCUS.

It's a key word in my mind today!

FOCUS. Remain focused on the task at hand and God will light the way... it's the only thing on my mind today... remain.

{365} ♥

2012-01-01T23:28:00.000-06:00

{So, I am copying an idea from a fellow Momma Blogger to write notes to my children for 365 days. I will do my absolute best to post one everyday.... As my little 365 day project evolves I will post more about it. In the mean time.}

{365} Notes {& Reminders} to my Children

#1 There was a time in your lives when you thought of each other as aw~thom{awesome} remember that when you get older..{I will always think you are both more than AWESOME!}

{9 Months Cami} ♥

2012-01-01T23:24:00.001-06:00

On Christmas Day my Cami turned 9 months.

{Yes, this post is 7 days late but that doesn't matter I have to do it.}

Camila Isabel {9 Months}

My Cami is....

Love

Girly

Tough

Patience

Smiles

FAITH

HOPE

Sunshine

Laughter

Sweetness

Peace

Softness

Squeezable

Hug-able

Kissable

a Blessing

Our Cami is an amazing little fireball made of sugar and spice with a hint of cinnamon, no really she loves syrup and is sticky..lots. Ha. She is definitely my little sidekick she wakes up early with me, with a HUGE smile on her face, ready to start our day. She sits patiently as I click away on the keyboard and eats her breakfast as if she knows not to make noise for the boys. She is my beautiful little lady who loves playing dress up and doesn't mind Momma's camera in her face. She is the new love in our lives... Santi, Ricardo and I couldn't have asked for a more perfect fit to this little family of FOUR! Making me the happiest most Blessed Momma of Dos ever. Camila, you will learn that your brother pushes you, punches you and LOVES you all at once. Your Daddy melts every.single.time he sees you. He will cry the day he walks you down the aisle. I am so Blessed to know what it's like to have a daughter. You are Blessed to be a part of this family. We are NOT perfect. We are Loud. But we LOVE one another more than life! Don't forget that when people fail you...God will NEVER leave your side. Lean on His words, His grace and His power all the days of your life and you can never go wrong. Being a girl is tough, we must stick together, grow up fast, learn everything at once and do it all in under 20 seconds, if you have patience life will treat you well, be slow to anger and even slower to respond to anything spoken against you. God knows your heart and with that your heart will be complete. Know that we love you so much and that you are the BEST person to have come into our lives in 2011. We can't wait for the days to come....

You will be ONE in 3 short months... I can't believe that!

Resolutions~Smeshalution!

2012-01-01T11:27:00.001-06:00

I didn't make any in 2011....
My life changed forever when I had my children. I learned that you take one day at a time.
And we have. Therefore in 2012 I will be constantly reminded of that.

I am not perfect. 

I must take it one day at a time. 

I will make it a goal to pray every day for my family and myself. 

I will make it a priority to continue to pray every night with my children and instill faith,values and morals as the days go by and they get older.

 I will learn to move on. 

I will learn to let go and truly let God. {Easier said than done.}

I will attempt to write EVERY.SINGLE.DAY. for the sake of keeping clear records for my children and myself.

I will attempt to take MORE pictures of my kids, they will only be this little ONE time... 

I will strive EVERY.SINGLE.DAY to be a better Momma, Wife, Daughter, Sister, Friend and Family member.

I will make the best of every resource that I have and deal with my current situations one at a time. 

 I will not get ahead of myself or make assumptions. 

I will further learn to tame my tongue. 

I will smile EVERY.SINGLE.DAY. God has given me the most AMAZING Blessings aside from Life itself! 

I will exercise and eat healthier, for myself and for my children. 

I will be happier as the days go by. {It's not a difficult task!}

I will pray more for others. 

I will love others more {my pride less}.

I will bring joy and pride to my home and my family! {My Hubby and Children deserve it!}

And, I will add to this list as the days, weeks and months go by!

HAPPY 2012 EVERYONE!! Let's make every day count because we count!

Much Love from Momma of Dos!

2011?

2011-12-31T09:30:00.000-06:00

Where did it go?
Seriously.
Aside from having Camila most the year is a blur.
Is that bad?
Is that Momma brain?

Ahii. I don't know. But, the days keep moving along into a new year and all I can think is CHANGE. Change Connie. Change. I want BIG things to happen in my life and if I want a difference then I should initiate CHANGE!

Seems to be the word of the week. CHANGE. De-cluttering. De-stressing. Simplifying. Life. Faith. Friends. Family. EVERYTHING. I don't think it's a bad thing. I think it's a good thing.

Therefore all I can think of for 2012 is CHANGE. Make a difference in ME. Make a difference in MY home. Make a difference in MY children. Make a difference in MY marriage. Make a difference in MY life. Selfish? Maybe. But we all need some time to regroup. To rethink. To readjust. To rethink. To regroup.

As, I backtrack through 2011..Good and Bad. It all worked it's self out for the best. For the truth to be revealed, for friendships to be tested. For faith to be endured. For Love to be matched. For justice to overcome. For GOOD to prevail. In the end. God has opened new doors, closed MANY others and shone His light on what should be in our lives for 2012. "Plans to prosper..not to harm you...."

Therefore no matter where we spend New Years Eve or with whom. God already has our plans for 2012. Nothing we do can change that. The only thing that needs to change is our way of thinking. Our attitude. For myself my biggest GOAL, my biggest RESOLUTION. Is ME. It takes some mistake making to learn. This year. I have learned. I promise. No really. I have.

So, 2011 Good day to you! I will miss you. You brought many a new Blessings. Especially my new little CamNoodles to Love and to hold forever and ever... no matter how many tantrums she throws as I type up this BLOG! HA. You've left me MANY a bittersweet memories to love and to cherish deep in my soul. You've left with me sadness as friends have left my side. I wish them well and so much LOVE. You leave me deep sorrow as we lost my Beautiful Aunt Lola to a disease I am yet to understand but plan to fight for! You leave us questions as my Husband lost his uncle to a questionable cold-hearted murder, I can't understand...You leave me with pain and questions to be answered BUT guess what 2012 will be better and new days will come. Truth will uphold and be revealed. Justice and Good will always overcome evil no matter how long it takes. I plan to add wisdom and maturity to my days and my words...

SO TO YOU I SAY.....

WELCOME 2012

AND AN

AWESOME NEW YEAR!!!!!!!

I HOPE YOU CAN ALL CONQUER THE DAYS AND LIVE WITH PEACE AND FAITH DEEP IN YOUR HEARTS!!!

My Loves @ Christmas!

2011-12-29T00:00:00.000-06:00

Picture taken by Terrazas Photography :)

{Traditions in Faith} ♥

2011-12-28T14:30:00.000-06:00

When it comes to traditions they are deeply rooted in my background. Our Mexican culture and most definitely in our Catholic faith. I want my children to grow up with these same traditions, culture, memories and faith.

I think I have stated it before as I was growing up I didn't understand my faith. It was when I was an adult that I learned to embrace it and ultimately love it. I want my children to learn more about our faith than I did growing up. My parents followed the Catholic faith and just assumed that we should as well. But, I want to go that extra step and have faith and explain why we do what we do.

One of my biggest goals is Christmas. To ensure my children that there is more to opening presents and gift giving. That there is family, selfless-ness and faith as well as Love in every Christmas that we celebrate. That we are celebrating our faith in the birth of Jesus Christ. That we are followers of Mary and Joseph. That their pilgrimage to seek a same haven to birth the Saviour was a long one filled with struggles and obstacles but that they ultimately found the most humble and faith-filled place for Jesus to be born and to be honored as the light and salvation of our lives.

Here is what we experienced this December 2011.....

El Dia de la Virgen de Guadalupe:

Pedir Posada:

y Familia:

Oh, CHRISTmas Tree ♥

2011-12-24T17:00:00.000-06:00

This year our Christmas tree isn't overflowing with presents. And, no we are not trying to teach our children a lesson, they are too little to understand. This year God has decided that as adults, my Husband and I, should learn about Love, FAITH, and having one another.

My Hubby has never really been one to worry about presents anyway, me on the other hand... I wasn't always that way... times are hard and people struggle. God knows our hearts and what we really need in our lives, or who we really need in our lives.God has provided for us in the most amazing manner. And given us the best friends any couple could wish for...

This year God has been good to us. A new baby girl to spend Christmas eve with, a Hubby who is ALMOST done with school, and new job to better support my family. I have slowly learned that Christmas..and life in general is not about the gifts you receive but about the type of Blessing you are...

Just the other night...I handed a man at a gas station $7.00 {It's all the cash I had. It was cold. And he was standing outside the gas station with his 2 young daughters and teenage son. I saw this man being humbled and not ashamed to reflect need....times are hard., he simply said..."God Bless you ma'am." It filled my heart and the tears didn't stop...

I hear of so many families who lose their little ones for various reasons, of marriages that can't conceive and pray every night for a child, of parents who intentionally hurt their children and themselves, and I look at my two special little Blessings and my heart is OVER flowing....

Marriages that fall apart or are in crisis, Husband's and Wives that cheat on one another, or are disrespectful to each other...and sitting next to me is an Oger to the world and a soft mushy bear to ME...my heart has been complete.....

This Christmas I am Blessed. And, I have learned that it doesn't matter what you receive as long as you are a Blessing to others...nothing else matters...

To be Humble, Self-less, Forgiving, Merciful, Loving and Faith-filled... That is my Blessing..

I pray that EVERYONE has an amazing

and most Blessed Christmas eve...

and a FAITH-FILLED CHRISTMAS DAY!

FROM TEAM GOMEZ WITH LOVE!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

The Vocabulary Game

2011-12-23T06:30:00.000-06:00

The Pediatrician gave Santi until January to speak. Literally. He has words, now some phrases but more than half the time I get that blank stare of "Mom, don't you know what I'm saying?" the sad truth is that, I don't know what Santi is saying half the time. It result in total frustration. I end up sad cause I am a horrible Momma..or so I think. He ends up frustrated because he knows what he is trying to tell me but I have no clue.

He has many words, and phrases most of which I know. The few that remain an enigma are the ones that I just wish I had a baby translator for. Santi is to our impression fully bilingual at this point. We speak to him in English at home and with his Grandmother{ who cares for him Monday thru Friday 7am to 7pm} he speaks only Spanish. It's what we wanted for him, so him staying at home with her and now Cami has been more than a Blessing. We want Santi to be fully bilingual but not sure how much that is really affecting him when it comes to getting the words across.

I am trying everyday more and more to hold full conversations with him. We read together. He is more than fully engaged and really surprises us most days when he seems to be responding and answering our questions.

My Husband and I have gotten in the habit of asking him how his day went, what he did and who he was with all the day. He does pretty well but January is around the corner and I don't know what else to do for him..when time is of the essence.

My next step is labeling and flashcards. We shall see....

Any thoughts or suggestions?

{When it's hard to stand...}

2011-12-22T10:45:00.006-06:00

We pray.

We have faith.

We have each other.

We have friends.

We have family.

We have God.

We have love.

We have resources.

We have work.

We are Blessed.

~2011 to 2012~

2011-12-20T23:40:00.002-06:00

First off, I am really just out of it this week.

I have been out of the game {Bloggy-game that is} for some time. I have the time to write and think but I think that because of my everyday 8 to 5 job..I am all thought out! Ha. I can't find a way to express, I can't find the words to share.

I have never had this kind of an issue.

I have been seeking inspiration for 2 days now. And, "nothing"...I have NOTHING!

I mean. I have something. But, how can I convey my thoughts in an orderly and interesting manner!

Don't know. But, here we go.

So, like every other "New Year is a upon us last minute resolution maker"..I really do want to be healthier in the new year. I have gained weight. Lots. I will spare you the shape of my body but uhm yeah, muffin top I think is more than totally in order. I should totally become {"totally"} become accountable for these thoughts and take pictures of myself, but it's almost midnight here in Houston and I don't want to be a fatty and frumpy so we shall leave those for another day! No really. Another day. I need to get with it and get my booty in gear. Not to look hot or be that Momma but just because I hate not fitting into my work pants about 5 minutes before I leave to work! Not a good sight and not good on the ears... Ahiii. That and plus I have been really horrible at my H2O intake since around Thanksgiving and I am sure that I have been dodging a huge kidney stone bullet. So yes, New Years Resolution making begins, I guess tonight...

And, then there is the whole not being inspired and writing from the top of my head kinda thing that I really need to NOT let happen, ever again!

Let's recap:

Loose weight and Write more. Hmmm. Pretty simple. Pretty easy? I am sure the list will grow in the last few days of 2011. I am sure the words self control and discipline come to mind, but we shall be spared.

And then all I could think was...wow...2011 is almost over? How did that happen? When did it happen? The year is not quite a blur and amazing as well as sad memories come to mind....but I must stop while I'm a head, get a good nights sleep and see if the inspiration fairy hitches a ride with the dream fairy and come to pillow tonight... cause the parking lot is empty..no really it is.

Buenas Noches...

Cut!

2011-12-19T00:39:00.002-06:00

I really hate that I have neglected my Blog. I am trying to get back on track and putting some real thought into my posts for the next couple of weeks.

I went back and read some of my drafts to see if I could post something but they just didn't make the cut. You know those Blog posts, the ones that come to mind in moments of anger, sadness, or just blah-moments.

Some of my thoughts, emotions, words and writings are just too raw for the world to see and read. I just don't know how others will perceive them and/or interpret. Therefore some of my drafts will never make it onto my Blog but I do go back and re-read them just in case.. but sometimes the second time seems worse than the first so I click the delete button and bury those feelings and thoughts. It may not be the healthiest thing to do but at the moment it's the best thing to do.

I guess you can say I have a writer's block..probably from lack there of... it's sad. It's not normal for me. I usually have lots to say, explain and share. I haven't lost my inspiration it's just been sitting on the warm up bench for so long I am scared to let release it...

We shall see. I am going to sleep on it. Let my mind run wild and come back mañana...hopefully it's a good come-back! HA!

I do have plans of cleaning, decorating and memory making for my next 2 weeks of vacation... my mini-stay-at-home Momma moment... I guess this is why we have an imagination and play pretend everything when we are young...to prepare for moments like this! Ha.

What about you... Christmas will be here ASAP, then NEW YEARS, and 2012, what are you plans, goals and aspirations for the Holiday's and new year?

{Back Tracking....}

2011-12-16T23:37:00.001-06:00

Let's rewind a little bit....

Back in September I got a promotion...woooo-whoooo me! Yes. But, it meant more responsibility, longer work hours and less time at home. Also in September, my Husband began his last Fall semester...we pray. Back then December seemed so far away. During the last 3 months; I have had surgery, my kids have been ill, Ricardo has been working hard as an Intern, a student, a Daddy, a Husband, a Son, a Brother, and a friend. We thought we had already had a difficult semester when our family was stricken with the pain of loss, Ricardo's uncle was murdered here in Houston. It's been, a challenge. Dealing. But, I pray for justice, peace and faith to overcome.

Then there is today. The closing of the semester at UH, my last day of work for 2011 {thank God} and the Holiday's. It's so difficult to think that a family will be without. That they will be in pain and mourning. But again, I pray that justice will prevail. I can't imagine what the family is going through I can only pray for their comfort and well being.

Over the next two weeks I will attempt to be social, be crafty, be a temporary Stay-at-Home Mom {for 2 weeks, HA!}and assist my Husband in any way possible in moving forward with his career choices. I also plan to have fun, relax and enjoy not only my time off but my little ones... they grow so fast and not being there everyday with them has me feeling really guilty most days...so I want to be happy with them and for them to be happy around me. It will be great!

Life is so difficult. Life has been a struggle. I think it helps define you as a person and creates character. As we overcome every obstacle set forth with peace and faith that one day things will be okay and back to normal.

Cosas del Amor ♥

2011-12-09T19:00:00.000-06:00

{For all my Spanish readers.... }

En cuanto a mi matrimonio, no digo que somos perfectos pero si somos quienes somos. Ricardo es su propia persona, al igual que yo. Nos conocimos hace 12 años, hemos pasado por muchos momentos tristes, felices, de madures, de amor, de fe, de aprendizaje, de estrés. Pero todos los días, un día a la vez. Hemos tenido 2 hermosos angelitos de Dios, y casi siempre estamos super ocupados; con nuestros trabajos, Ricardo con la escuela y yo con los ninños y mi casa. Tratamos de pasar tiempo en familia, porque por 10 años convivimos como pareja…y cuando se puede nos tratamos de escapar solitos. Pero preferimos estar con Santi y Cami.

Cuando nos casamos éramos; ehhh, jóvenes, él tenía 27 y yo 25, pero los últimos 5 años yo se que hemos madurado individualmente y crecido como pareja. Yo creo que como “crecimos” juntos hemos podido ayudarnos a enfrentar nuestras faltas, debilidades e defectos al igual que corregirlos. Les repito cada quien es su propia persona pero juntos.Se entiende?

Todos los dias son diferentes y cada dia lo tratamos como un nuevo dia. Lo de ayer se olvida y se perdona y lo de hoy se aprende y se sobrepasa!

Quisas lo que quiero decir es que en cosas del amor, todas, y todos, somo diferentes. Pero lo mas importante es ser fiel a la comunicacion, a su pareja y al respeto. No todo mundo se tiene que casar "como lo manda Dios", el matrimonio es algo MUY serio y es algo que quizas no sea para todos, pero para nosotros a funcionado muy bien. Hay muchas parejas que nunca se casan ni por el civil, ni por la iglesia... y estan muy bien, pero repito respeto, comunicacion y fidelidad, es lo mas esencial en cada relacion!

En Cosas del Amor, yo estoy muy bendecida... pero no todo en mi vida ha sido facil... como dicen..no todo es color de rosa... y el que quiere azul celeste...QUE LE CUESTE!

{Disculpen si algo no esta bien escrito... my MS Word en casa es superr lento! JA!}

JA!

{Updates and then some?}

2011-12-05T21:48:00.000-06:00

Where did we leave off between Leftovers..already forgotten and Baby on the brain... Work, family and just LIFE...we are struck by tragedy in a family with a heart so big we've definitely been hit far too harshly...

My Husband's uncle was killed a week ago today... in a very unsettling way. It's left a family in pieces and trying to catch up with the reality of life and how to move forward. Death is difficult as it is. When it's expected there is some type of closure and understanding... but when it's in such a sudden and abrupt matter...there is only turmoil and broken-ness. But, I pray. I pray for peace. I pray for faith. I pray for life. I pray for justice to be done. Houston is a huge city and I know that the person{s} responsible for this may never be found but I hope that God can give the Amaro family the justice that they are seeking, the answers left up in the air and the love to move forward.

With that said.. I leave you with this...

The priest spoke at the funeral service about a mission... an individual mission in our lives. How God has placed us on this earth only for the sufficient amount of time to fulfill our own individual missions... so I ask you...

What is your mission? Have you found it? Are you seeking it? Are you living it?

Another, thing that he spoke of was forgiveness, and seeking our own faults to correct them. I know I am not perfect and I ask for forgiveness from those whom I have hurt and/or offended with my ways, words and thoughts... I AM SORRY. FORGIVE ME.

Good night....

{Once upon a time....}

2011-12-01T05:30:00.000-06:00

I was pregnant....

THIS MUCH!

{2009}

And then....

I was pregnant again....

THIS MUCH!

{2011}

Ahhhh. I miss the baby belly ......

A lot of my friends are pregnant...

TWO of my VERY close friends...

Just makes me think and wonder...

Do I want another baby?

If so, when?

BUT DO I REALLY WANT ANOTHER ONE?

Only God knows.

{Leftovers} ♥

2011-11-30T17:40:00.001-06:00

I know I had sworn off all things Thanksgiving Turkey BUT I just HAD to do one more gobble-gobble post....

This one comes in the form of leftovers... that's right... leftovers. After a couple of days as you may recall we were all turkied-out! Ha. The traditional turkey that is. How is it possible that after 12 months of anticipation for the day to come and now, I am so ok with it being another 12 months away. Ha.

So, in our futile attempt to waste as little God-given food as possible my Hubby decided to make some TURKEY TACOS!

Yup! They were good. I also discovered that though I am not a good cook, I do make good salsa's ... here is our turkey taco lunch, the Saturday after Thanksgiving!

Recipe:

Take your leftover cooked turkey meat and mix it with diced onions, black pepper and a little bit of salt. This will be your taco stuffing.

Take your corn tortillas and heat them up on your comal. Place about 2 tablespoons of turkey filling in your tortilla and fold it over, like a taco, not a flauta!!

In a pan add some oil, when the oil is hot you lay the folded taco in the oil until it is crispy on one side, then carefully turn it over on the other, until that side is crispy.

Then place fried tacos on a napkin to soak off any excess oil.

Top your tacos with lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, sour cream and of course...SALSA!

And enjoy...some yumma tacos!

{A Menu and some Changes....}

2011-11-25T19:11:00.001-06:00

I wanted to share what we actually ate for Thanksgiving..I don't have pictures, SORRY!

Thanksgiving Menu:

Turkey {Marinaded with Tony Chachere's Injectable Roasted Garlic and Herbs; My Hubby made a rub for the outside from the Tony Chachere's Creole Seasoning} We cooked it for over 5 hours... it was yumma! If I do say so myself!

Ham {from Sam's Club, fully cooked and honey glazed baked with fresh pineapple slices}

Stuffing {my Momma's recipe... bagged seasoned stuffing mix, ground beef, rice, chopped up onions, bell peppers and celery; seasoned with salt and pepper to taste, fried then baked together added broth from boiling the turkey gizzards.} My Mother-in-Law made some as well but I don't know her recipe... :)

Seasoned fresh Green beans { I boiled the green beans then fried them with coarse black pepper and bacon! Bacon makes everything better...}

Corn on the Cob {Boiled with butter and garlic salt}

Mashed Sweet Potatoes {I boiled them then pureed them in the food processor my hubby added nutmeg and cinnamon.}

Lumpy Mashed Potatoes { Made by my Sis; boiled potatoes, heavy whipping cream, salt and pepper to taste}

Fruit Salad {Ric's cousin Erica made it! Very Yumma! }

Green bean casserole {Ric's Aunt MaryAnn made it...also Yumma!}

Pumpkin & Pecan pies and an Apple Cinnamon Bunt Cake { My Momma bought some and Ric's Aunt Yolanda made one from scratch, my Sis-in-Law Ale made the cake..... Yummmmaa!}

Dinner rolls and Tostadas... we is Mexican and some Salsa Verde {Just boiled green tomatoes and jalapeño peppers added some salt and once they were soft I blended them....}

Whole Cranberries Cranberry Sauce {Canned Ocean Spray..HA!}

Gravy { Canned as well; white and brown}

Some White Wine and Coronas....

Ahhhhh. I hope I didn't forgot anything....

So, after TWO whole days of this.... I have decided to make lots of changes in the next 30-days... yep! I am going to do a detox and possible "look" change...I am scared and not sure how it will go..but we shall see!

I will start December 1.

When a Thankful Thursday turns into an Amazing Memory....

2011-11-25T04:35:00.001-06:00

Here is our Thanksgiving in pictures:

We decided on a crafty idea for the boys...they made their own Thanksgiving shirts the night before....

The next day started here....

{Sorry I didn't get a picture of all of our cooked food!}

It went on to this....

And, finally family arrived....

It was Cami's first Thanksgiving...she was excited....

The following were my favorite shots from our Thanksgiving day!

It all ended here:

Happy Thanksgiving from Momma of Dos!!!

{Thankful Thursday} Fo'Sho!

2011-11-24T14:33:00.000-06:00

This year our lives have been radically moved!

God like every year has been more than gracious and generous to us!

Though we have struggled and made many a sacrifices, we have NO complaints and our love as a family of NOW four has been far more of a Blessing than we could have ever imagined!

What is the Gomez family Thankful for this year?

Well here let me give you an idea:

I have a BEAUTIFUL family of four; My Hubby, my Santi, my Cami and I are so Blessed.
God is more than amazing to us!

We have not one but TWO sets of very supportive and loving Parents {Grandparents}!

We have siblings who love us and care for us as much as we care for them!

We have a more than loving and supportive extended family who are always willing to lend a helping hand!

We have amazing friends who never leave us!

We have a home, we both have jobs, and we are safe and healthy over all!!!!

MORE IMPORTANTLY we have God and we have each other....

HAPPY THANKSGIVING FROM OUR LOVING HOME TO YOURS!

{BloggyMommas} ♥

2011-11-22T00:00:00.000-06:00

I am not sure if most of you know but I started Blogging as a away to practice my writing/sharpen my skills{total fail} and to kill some time...as my job at that time "required" it. Therefore, I really had NO idea what all the Blog World entailed. I was quickly inspired by THIS amazingly witty and beautiful Momma Blogger. Soon after, I got pregnant and I was inspired EVEN more and MORE then EVER to write. I wanted to join this whole Momma Blogger Revolution...you know, be part of the crowd but at times I limited myself and my writing with my Husband's fear of sharing too much or being too personal that our lives would loose meaning... but little did I know that being REAL is what this whole up-rising is about! Not real like you want to share every bitter remorse of your life but REAL like...I do things the SAME.WAY.YOU.DO.THINGS!

You know what I mean?

Well, Heather has a bazillion followers and I am sure she will never call me for coffee so I quickly started looking for locals...more importantly young {30-something}, Hispanic Bloggers... soon after I just looked for Momma Bloggers who I might just have the possibility of meeting one day...You know regular everyday women with lives similar to mine and everyday struggles and shuffles...

It's been almost 4 years and just this past week I realized..I HAVE A GROUP OF BLOGGYMOMMA'S! Not only do I read their Blogs and they read mine but one day, we could just meet! Amazing? Sure, I would like to call it Godly. I am a firm believer in that God does everything for a reason. And, what more amazing reason to Blog than about being a Momma! Not just the I'm pregnant, having a baby tomorrow, bloated, ahh how cute post but the I think my hair is on fire, get the hose, Santi ran outside, and Cami is throwing up in the hall post! And, you know what...I love it! Real Momma's with real lives, and real drama...not like {High School, hater drama}but Momma {I should be reading a book or napping not chasing this child around the house while he throws goldfish at his sister drama!}Ha!

Here are some amazing Bloggers who, I not only read about everyday but we actually talk to one another and I consider their feedback important and uplifting! You know...like good Amigas should! This group of ladies has definitely been a source of inspiration, motivation and cultivation! I hope to one day be part of an event where I can meet them and bring them all together! I think it would be beyond awesome!

Salena

Marsha

Anne-Marie

Darlene
Jamie
Marcela

Then there are the women that like those mentioned before not only capture my heart but my culture as well and remind me... que SI se PUEDE!

Kathy Cano-Murrillo

Chantilly Patiño

Monique Frausto

And, finally but definitely not least... are the following group of ladies who are amazing Women of Faith and Beautiful Momma's in my EVERYDAY life and I consider them some pretty amazing BFF Momma Bloggers...we actually see one anther regularly! :D

Then there are women like my Mom who I wish had a Blog...because she's always been my BIGGEST motivation,drive,supporter and inspiration!!!!

What about you? Who do you follow? Who do you wish you could meet? Who do you wish had a Blog?

Social Momma?

2011-11-20T09:08:00.001-06:00

This weekend was full of events; for the kids, for me, for all of us! It was fun, tiring and honestly....much needed.

Last week I had friends over at my house....TWICE! As Santi would say...WHOA-WHOA-WHOA! Trust me, it's a big deal. Between; work, getting the kids ready and organizing the Gomez weekly chaos...I rarely attempt to be "social" but some how this week it all worked out for the best. I think my because of my fear of judgement; you know....your house is a mess, you look tired and really you you left your house looking like that today?, I limit weekly friend visits. Plus, it's a challenge with working an hour away from home, having to pick up the kids and making it somewhere before it gets dark. But, thanks to some pretty amazing amigas this week, it happened. I overcame the fear of being judged. Had friends over, and had so much fun! Had some good ol'Momma time and moved on with my week!

Not only did I have friends over but I actually made it to happy hour and a children's birthday party all I could think was; "Wow!, my attempt to be social this week...actually worked out!" I got to see old friend, Santi got to make new friends and we all had a lot of awesome memory making moments... you know for those....when the kids get older stories!

I guess I am finally getting into that comfort zone where balance is not only a must but do-able. I just know that with a little effort on my behalf, some support from my Hubby and motivation from my Momma friends...it's been possible and very fun! I don't feel guilty going out anymore and leaving my beautiful children behind...I see it as a little time away to regroup and remind myself that other adults do exist! It helps you relax and unwind. I think!

What about you, how do you stay social but still find time to be a Momma and/or a Wife?

Potty Trauma

2011-11-18T00:00:00.000-06:00

So, the topic of choice tonight is POOP. Yea. I said it. Caca. And, also number 1! Ha.

Lil'Man is 2 years and 2 months. Around the time when Cami was born {7 1/2 months ago} everyone started asking me about potty training. Being that I now work over 12 hours a day, outside my home and that my Mother-in-Law who not only watches my TWO crazy little ones but also my Hubby's Grandmother who is a Dialysis patient; it has NOT been handled. I just don't feel like we should be that pushy about it. The kid sees a toilet and has a panic attack...I don't think it's worth the trauma... at least not now.

I know that it would save us a ton on insurance.... no wait... that can't be right....I'm tired... it's late... but yes..money saving. On diapers. It would save us some good moola on diapers. But, honestly. Not just cause I am a zombie half the time but cause I really do believe in.... dale tiempo al tiempo. It will come. No one likes to be rushed. We all learn at different paces and we all learn within due time...from life and experience. Santi is TWO, has a good way to go before he can realize that he must go on the potty in order to normally function within social adult settings...but again.. he is TWO! He will one day ask to sit on the potty and just do what is natural to most, poop on the toilet. Too raw? Again it's late. Sleep deprived. Momma of Dos...etc etc. Ha.

What are your thoughts? I don't want to push my son to learn one more thing. He counts to 10, reads to Cami all day, sings the alphabet kinda, can name all his facial features, runs around all day, invests his time in movies, jumps on beds, empties baby powder containers, eats, sleeps and punches his Grandmother when he's wants...I think he has a full day as it is! Why should I push him..to..do..one..more..thing... I feel like it will come..and when it does, we will all smile and say..."Great job Lil'Man!" Hugs and kisses will probably be in order and as adults we will be left with thoughts as to why we don't get proper appreciation when we use the potty. No? Ok, maybe not but you get my point.

It is what it is...it will come. He will conquer the day he can poop on the potty and all the universe will be at ease that one more diaper will not go onto some landfill to decompose after a ba-zilliion years...

I know it's probably important for Santi to start potty training but seriously...is it something that I should be that pushy about, right now?

{Knocks you down...}

2011-11-17T00:00:00.000-06:00

I love THIS song... not only does love knock you down..but so DOES life...all you can do is get back UP...and keep ROCKIN'!

I think.

That's all I know....

Sometimes love comes around
(Love comes around)
And it knocks you down
Just get back up
When it knocks you down
(Knocks you down)
~Keri Hilson

~Table 5~

2011-11-16T00:17:00.000-06:00

This post must begin with a temper tantrum. Maybe this is where Santi is getting it from. Ahiii. Thankfully my Hubby knows me and remained objective. Ha.

It starts out on a Saturday afternoon. Frustration set in as we were getting ready for a very good friends wedding. I didn't like the way my clothes was fitting me. Let's face it. I've never been, naturally, a size 2. I am about a cupcake and a cherry coke away from a meltdown most days. I am a short and curvy Hispanic Momma. Asi soy, lo acepto! I've always had to work at being a stable size 10/12 {does that exist?}. The last five years I've fluctuated between tears and struggles from a size10 to a size 16 while pregnant.

This Saturday I was determined. To fight the pain of these forever unforgiving kidney stones and to forget that I am at 165 in a size 14..but forcing myself into a size12. The aches and pains of being a curvy Momma were overcome and I moved forward. In a black pencil skirt, a nice cream blouse and heels.

We made it to the wedding where we were greeted by smiling faces on a dark patio. I thought, THANK GOD! No lighting! I will appear smaller than I really am, HA. Our friends looked amazing and their happiness and family were more than welcoming. Cocktail hour would come to a close and they would summon us to the dinning room. We assumed we'd be sitting at the "college buddies" table. We waited at the entrance of the reception for our table number and walked in straight past the table that we would have thought to be at, table 8, where all the other "college buddies" were sitting.

Instead our table number, 5, was composed of 3 new couples, none of whom we knew. But, we didn't mind. We awkwardly sat down and took our respective places at the table. Shyly but surly we all started talking, asking how one another knew the happy Mr. & Mrs. Fernandez. As the stories and relationship statuses started pouring out the table became more at ease and the night got started.

Dinner was great and our conversations about marriage, John and Aby {the Mr. & Mrs.}, children, pets, college, technology and careers all seemed to fall right into place. Table 5 had far more in common than we had imagined. Suddenly the table number seemed suitable and age appropriate. Aby {& God} knew the type of company that we needed that night. Grown up company with similar lives. All of the sudden table 5 became our identity and the night had whisked away! Fun, laughter, dancing, singing, Faith, hope, Love and new friendships in the making. It was all worth while.

All I could think was Thank God I didn't give up on that black size 14 pencil skirt and that I decided not to throw a full on tantrum. Otherwise we would have missed out...

Discipline Oyiii!

2011-11-15T06:00:00.000-06:00

I know that I am a new Momma and all, I am probably only just scratching at the surface of what Motherhood, Discipline and having children entails but I am going to dare to give it a whirl. I think though that my Husband and I having children "later" in life {for us Mexican}, was for a good reason. We both believe and know that we will certainly lead by example. Yes, we are all human and yes even at 30 {"a much wiser age"} I continue to make mistakes but if there is something that I have learned is that these mistakes are made for learning and for growth.

Ricardo and I have both established that we should always agree on discipline and should never argue it's validity in front of our children. If Ricardo or myself are in the middle of discipline {yes, with our TWO year old} we support one another. We are yet to find a good balance in tone or firmness of it all but we never undermine one another or favor Santi's tantrum over our decision to act upon his actions. This is where questions arise. Yes, we more times than not agree that Santi needs structure, rules and at times stern reminders of what is right and what is wrong but our tactics are not always effective. He has a very strong personality and can dominate most situations. It's been a true challenge to find the "correct" or most effective type of discipline for his age and for his actions.

We started with "time out" around the time of Cami's arrival. We suspected some sibling jealously or rivalry if you will. But, as time passed and we realized that he was over powering other children and hitting his cousin who is a bit smaller than him in size, then we were faced with a new challenge. Added firmness to our discipline strategies. At times, yes, that means, the "s" WORD. Spanking. And, raising our voice more than once to get his attention. Which then led to empty threats of getting a belt but never really having the heart to do so which then all became a funny situation as he realized that we were really not being as "stern" as we thought we were. He would mimic our actions and mock the "pow-pow" motions with his hands. We couldn't help but laugh as he returned the waving of the pointer finger for him to behave and the gibberish that came out of his mouth was just as irrelevant as the words that were coming out of mine.

Now, almost 8 months after the arrival of his little sister; countless tears on Cami's part, frustration on our part, tears on Santi's part, and at times mine, we are back at square one. Ricardo tries but working 8 hours and going to school until 10pm, results in excuses of being tired. Don't get me wrong, I have the same excuse. I am too tired to make our little man see how bad he is being. Therefore,still, no resolution to Santi's "bad behavior".

When we took him to his two year check up the doctor blamed his "Terrible Two's" but honestly I think Santi knows; A. that he is being bad and can get away with it and B. that at times...we give up...

Now we are here..."those parents" with "that child"... and I really don't think I like it. Just this past weekend a dinner turned into a lecture about the fact that we allow Santi to get away with more than he should and how if we don't get a hold of him now he may end up in jail. I feel horrible. I want to seek help and read up on what the professional have to say. I know that a big part has to be a really good effort on our part. But, we really don't believe in spanking and time out isn't working. We are not sure if taking things from him or not giving him "treats" will work because I really don't think he cares if we tell him he can't watch TV or that he won't get ice cream after dinner, ya' know?

What is this Momma to do? Any advice? Any good books?

{Remedios}

2011-11-14T18:12:00.000-06:00

And no, she ain't my Tia. Just sayin'...

But, she is my Momma.

Ha.

Growing up my Momma and Grad-Ma {my Momma's mom} both had their share of ideas of things and rituals that would make us feel better. Old wives tales if you will about what not to do when you're sick and what you should do to get better. Like, not walking without socks on a cold floor cause it makes colic worse. Or popping your back with aciete de recino and then taking a tea spoon of it as a remedy to make constipation better. Or drinking a mixture of fresh herbal teas for various aches and pains. Even wearing an "ojo de venado" for el mal de ojo, when you are a baby. Or the very popular limpia con el huevo. Yes. My Momma and Grand-Ma both had deep belief in remedios caseros... as we grew older we became a bit more skeptic and kept only those "rituals" which we "thought" helped or soothed....

I thinks it's a cultural tradition that comes from various areas of beliefs; including religious and just everyday wisdom from one Nana to the next...

Hay tantos remedios caseros {some really work, I think!}

These are some that come to mind when I think of remedios...

Miel con limon para la garganta.

Te de Manzanilla para los colicos. {I just love all kinds of teas!}

and warm Savila for various skin issues.{They sell this stuff by the jug so it much work!}

More recently my Momma has been trying to treat my current Kidney condition con agua de uso, which is basically a variety of "leaves" boiled in a pot of water. I joke and tell my Momma that I know she got them from her morning walk off people's lawns but I have faith in her and her mixutres..I drink them and pray to God that I can be healed soon. Inside and out. I need it.

I know this type of remedios aren't "normal" to many but as a Mexican child of a Mexican Momma, I believe in them and their healing relief...My Momma always says... "si no te cura tampoco te hace daño..." but more times than not I feel better...

My agua de uso is composed of "cola de caballo" and "palo azul" so far...I feel better... I think Momma's just have that extra touch that make everything better...

What about you? Do you believe in remedios caseros, if so...what are some of your favs?

{Taking back my LIFE!} Semana: 1

2011-11-11T07:46:00.001-06:00

This week I made a resolution!

After my reservation for...Pity Party, Table of One, was cancelled... I decided to take back my life. Like any other normal human being, I am going to fight this pain! I REFUSE, to allow it to win and steal my joy! It, IT, doesn't have that kind of power over me! It just doesn't! What was I crazy to think that I could wallow for more than a few days! NO!

This morning, I woke up, took my meds, worked through the pain and got moving...I almost, almost put makeup on! {One day at a time Connie. One day at a time! Ha.} I hate to make light of a painful situation..but it's going to be the only way! The only way! As I got dressed Ric said...are you pain? {Yes.} cause you look like your in pain... {Thank you Captain Obvious! HA. Don't tell him I said that..Ha. He'd be mad! Ha.}

This week my goal is to work through the pain every morning and make progress in what ever needs to be done for the week....

I will update everyone soon... in the mean time...

I am looking for Guest Bloggers; I thought I wanted stories of Thankfulness but I think what I really want is a list..in the form of my previous Thankful Thursday's post. You can be Thankful for one thing or a hundred. I would like about 5 people I will be posting the day of Thanksgiving along with my own Thankful List!

Let me know if you'd like to join our Thankfulness party! Just email me at: mommaofdos@gmail.com

(Pity Party}

2011-11-10T05:38:00.003-06:00

That's right.

I woke up at 3 am today. Once more in pain. I prayed. I took my meds and then I thought. Why? Why am I allowing this pain to take over my life? To run me? WHY?!

For days now the pity party has been at my house, with one guest. Yes. Me.

Just now I thought; Ignore the pain, work through it and get past it! I stopped thinking about what was hurting and decided to sit down and read. I started with my good friend Casey's blogs, the Kathy, then Karen... all with the same message. Life. It happens. Why am I wallowing? Why haven't I taken God's offer to hold my hand and walk me through this? Why haven't I gone to church in over a month? Why Connie?

Then I thought. Life is passing you by. Life is happening and you are too busy... having this {ugh} pity party for yourself...everyday. Every hour. Every minute. Get over it.

I am seeking your face dear Lord. I am ready to start over. To take over. My health needs you. My body needs you. My heart needs you. I need you.

No more will allow the enemy to take over me. No more.

He (Jesus) said to her, "Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering.” Mark 5:34

{When Hope is Lost...}

2011-11-08T22:04:00.000-06:00

I have faith in healing. I know God can perform many miracles.

But, on days like today when you feel useless...and yes...hopeless...when I pray and tears are inevitable. I can't help but remember how human I really am.

I am in NO way, shape or form trying to compare my current illness to other chronic and fatal illnesses such as Cancer. I can't imagine the pain the or rigorous treatments without result. But, I am ill. Right now, it feels like a chronic problem.

It started about a month ago. A visit to the ER for Kidney Stones, a week later an emergency surgery to remove them. A stent in for about a week. {The worse pain and experience of my life, btw.} I went back to work packed with meds, an everyday regime of pain, antibiotic and nausea pills to be a functional daily person. Ridiculous if you ask me. Ridiculous. Here I am almost 3 weeks later, failed medication and a slew of new problems.

More pain, a swollen Kidney, ER visits from what feel like I could give birth to a 10 lbs stone, not fun. I feel useless. I can't even care for my kids. I can't go to work without the anxiousness of being in pain. I can't be me. I want my life back. This, I am sorry, is not life.

I pray that God can give me total healing and health. That the doctor can give me an answer to the pain and that I can truly "normal" again.

Hospital bills are growing. Patience is being lost. Fear of the future is being built. Hope is being lost? I don't want that... I don't want that....

I don't want to be the sick Mom, the ill employee, the wife always in the hospital.... the person with medical issues. I guess no one does... It just reminds me of that movie...again not comparing my illness to illnesses like that but what else can I do when I feel hopeless and helpless...

Medication is my foe. Kidney stone are my enemy. Kryptonite if you will. Like one person said.... "she's always on the injured list...." Perspective I guess.

I don't want this to be my identity. And, the tears are inevitable.

Desperate for healing. UGH. About it all.

I want off of this roller coaster....RIGHT NOW!

"Do not fear. Look beyond what's dying to what's being born."- Marianne Williamson, is a best-selling author, motivational speaker and just a plain amazing woman.

Let's try this again....

2011-11-02T04:26:00.001-06:00

12 years ago today Ricardo asked me for the SECOND time to be his girlfriend...I wasn't tryin' to get married or anything...I was only 18! He was 20!

When was the first time you may ask...well I may have already told this story..but I love it so.

Ricardo and I met in 1999. I wanted to be an accomplish doctor and he was still trying to figure out which direction he wanted to go in... I didn't want a boyfriend. I wanted to go to school and be happy...with ME!

We met in August, we spoke on the phone for about 2 months... finally in October we went on a couple of dates. Again. I didn't want to be serious with anyone...

It was October. Poor guy had to buy a cell phone after a few weeks of using a pay phone to call me...FYI, and he hates this detail...sometimes.. I would tell my mom to tell him I wasn't home. It wasn't that he wasn't a good guy or anything. Ricardo's always been a gentle giant {as my cousins once called him}. He was always sweet, respectful, attentive, and caring. One time, I told him I couldn't go to a concert with him cause I had a stomach flu and he sent me get-well flowers, a card and got the band at the concert to autograph a CD cover for me... I wasn't even that sick... it was uhm, that time of the month for me { I KNOW T.M.I. MOMMA! HA. } and was embarrased to be around hiim! Crazy, I know. But, I was young. Anyway. It was October. Halloween came around and we decided to go to a couple of haunted houses, my least favorite activity, I am not one to like scary anything...call me a whimp! I don't care! I just don't like it!

So. It's Halloween. We are standing outside of a haunted house and as we are walking in...Ricardo said... "do you want to be my girlfriend?"...he had caught me off guard...I said..... "uhm, no. sorry." It ruined the night and we left.... I didn't hear from him until 2 days later...

When he came back he was determined. It was el Dia de los Muertos. My family was in the house and Ricardo came back knocked on the front door asked to speak to me and when he did, he asked...again. Only this time. I said YES. He said that would have been the last time he talk to me had I said No. But, something tells me...that's not true.

I said yes.

and

He didn't give up.

I am so glad he didn't......

Working Momma 101

2011-10-29T23:17:00.000-05:00

Many of us work; inside the home, outside the home, BOTH.

As an outside the home working Momma, I have encountered many stories shared by women in the same place, many accomplishments, many moments of encouragement and Faith, but also challenges and times of true discouragement.

I think it's the enemy trying to deviate my focus.

I am usually a happy go lucky type of person, with many goals in mind but always with my family as a priority; my Husband and my children a like.

I know that where I am now, like many others is only temporary.

I like working and I love my job, my only problem these days is time.

My children are little so I like to think that it's not an issue and that it doesn't affect them as much as if they were older and aware that Momma left when it was dark and came home when it was bed time. It affects me. That's for sure. My Hubby being a Full-time student, I think is used to it. He calls me after class to see if the kids are asleep and rushes home. I on the other hand am not used to it. It's difficult. Small sacrifices now big rewards later?

I don't want to loose focus. I love my job. I love providing for my family. How do I deal though with these moments of Momma blues that just seem to drag me down.... Ahiii.

I pray that in the future my organization and some clarity of mind can help me deal... it's just so difficult tonight...for me to comprehend or grasp the idea that my kids can grow up without a Momma.... it wasn't what I signed up for when I decided to have children but it's how it's worked out.

I sit in the dark. Pray and hope that one day my nights become days and days last forever....

A late night thinkin' Momma.

{Seasons and Reasons}

2011-10-25T16:32:00.002-05:00

We are not here to understand the why…

We are not capable….

God is.

He is able.

He is capable.

God knows the reasons to our seasons.

We are here.

Still.

To remain.

To withstand.

To allow.

To fulfill the purpose that God’s will has given our lives…

Today God, I ask you to take over my life and make it yours.

Your will Dear God is where I want to be.

You're reason is my season.

That’s all I want… all the rest of my life.

That’s all.

{Just Life...Just Sayin'}

2011-10-23T06:00:00.000-05:00

There comes a turning point when things change...your eyes open and LIFE happens.

It's be days...weeks..months even...my LIFE has happened and my thoughts, inspirations and feelings linger in the nothing of the real world....

I haven't had time to express, create and innovate the way I would have like to...or want to.

Sometimes peoples thoughts of me drag me down..am I really who they say I am?

{Clearly God knows my heart and holds my soul...they are seeking, conflicting and in turmoil of their own..it's why they think that I am, who they think I am..clearly...GOD knows who I am..and guess what, so do I!}

So, I stand up after my millionth fall and fill myself with GRACE even after another slip of the tongue in that moment of fear and anger. That moment when I feel like acceptance is needed but fail.

While they claim to build and instead.... destroy... it's ok.

I rebuild, renew and SPEAK UP IN GOD'S NAME!

I am stronger today...

I am happy.

I am positive and

I know that God knows me.

Life hasn't always handed me the best....but God has always made things better...and here I am..another lesson learned about truth and sincere friendship... and I move on.

Yes.

This expression of raw, unglued emotions is necessary.

I need to SPEAK.

Even if I am NOT heard...

so that I can deal, handle and throw away what I don't like about me.

What I want to change and move forward..

I think we call it closure..

I think.

Over think and then come back to this....

GOD IS FOR ME!

So, I fear nothing, no-one and MOVE FORWARD!

I love life.

I love TRUTH.

I cherish people who do the same.

Today I have FAITH.

I remain calm.

I stay happy and above all POSITIVE.

About life.

About my friends.

About my family.

I am healing..inside and out..I am seeking inside and out..I am loving.

{Only God can take care of the rest....

Only Faith can lift me when I am down....

Only Love can prevail.

Only TRUTH can be exposed.

Only prayer will get me through this...

Only my family will understand.}

Love, FAITH, Happiness and Positivity..that's what I want from now on...

I am working on ME. That's all.

When life's got you down..look up...

HE is there and HE has the answers...

HE will embrace you and HE will change you!!!

Blessed Sunday.

{Waffles and Oatmeal} ♥

2011-10-22T10:45:00.001-05:00

It's the small things.

It's the simple life.

It's those moments of Blessing.

It's positivity.

It's happiness.

It's loyalty.

It's Love.

It's Friendship....

It's focusing on those who sincerely and truly love you.

Forgiving those who have hurt you...

as I pray they have forgiven me....

We move on.. We move forward. 

Our goal as Parents of Dos is to be AMAZING, STABLE, HAPPY AND THRIVE for these two Beautiful children:

They are our livelihood, they are our family... we can only be here for support of others but THESE two little waffle and oatmeal eating monkey's are the ones that at the end of the day require all of our time, effort, attention, LOVE, support and hugs!

Great Saturday Everyone!

Remain....

Positive!

In Faith.

Happy.

In Love.

Blessed.

{Special Feature} ♥

2011-10-19T11:40:00.002-05:00

I feel so posh today! Don't look it but totally feel it!

I tried Vlogging this morning..and uhm ME GUSTA! :)

Then... I was asked about my Blog Designer!

WOW.

Let me inform you all, my ::insert tickled pink giggles here:: Blog Designer is a fellow Houstonian Momma Blogger!

I love that!

She has done an amazing job on my Blog and here is her info:

Her Name is Jamie Kubeczka from { Family of Four }

She is not only a fellow Momma of Dos but also an awesome Graphic Designer: HERE

And you can contact her: HERE!

Have a GREAT day All.

Blessed.

Positive.

Health.

Healing.

Life.

Faith....

Boiling Point.

2011-10-18T19:05:00.001-05:00

I have a story...about a Momma who wished she could be a stay at home momma....

That's right.

Me.

The times that I have been a "Stay-at-Home" Momma it's been only because I have had a baby! Ha. With my son I was home for almost 8 weeks, I loved it. I didn't want to go back to work and it was a great time. I thought about all the possibilities, I was happy. But, I had to go back to work as my Hubby was laid off and a full-time student. So I went back to work. A year and half later, I had my Cami, I was home for almost 10 weeks and I MORE THAN LOVED IT. The creative me emerged and I was once more happy. I didn't want to go back to work but had to..so I did. These days I have been home a lot but sick..I just had surgery for a pesky kidney stone just last week.

Why am I pointing this out? Because the times that I have been home with my kids it's been because I have been recuperating from surgery. In the end I have to go back to work because for the time being I am the main support of my family; which I don't mind at all!! I know that when it's all said and done my Hubby having his degree will benefit our whole family of Four! These days I am torn. I have a new position at work, which I love. I love working, I have never been scared to work my butt off and then some. When I have had the chance to, I have worked and worked...and worked.

What makes things difficult is that I have 2 amazing little Angels at home. They are growing so fast and right before my eyes! My little man is 2 years old! My little momma is 6 months old! Some days I feel sad, so sad that I can't be home; HEALTHY, and doing different activities with them. Walks to the park at mid-day, a field trip to the Children's Museum or Zoo with girlfriends, and story time during lunch at the library! That's the perfect "Stay-at-Home" Momma day right? Since I have been sick during my stays at home with my kids that has not been the case...at...all.....

It's been more about how frustration sets in, these days tears are inevitable; a fussy and active 2 year old and a hungry 6 month old who is teething makes this Momma wish work was a 7 day a week event! Horrible I know. Because then I have those moments of total heart melting stay with me forever love... when I am in pain and my sweet little Camila just fell asleep next to me so that I can rest and Santi is hugging and kissing me cause Momma is hurting....."aiiishhhh" he says as he rubs my arms. Then there are days when Santi proves to be turning into that terrible TWO baby boy that makes him ire-cognizable. It makes me feel like a failure as a Mom when I tell my son, "STOP THAT Santiago!", and I call his name 20 times in a few seconds, or constantly tell him "SON DON'T HIT YOUR SISTER!" My voice rises and my heart breaks and Santi fights back! That's right. As if he had too many words for me he STOPS me in my tracks, points a finger at me as it waves it back and forth he scolds me in his 2 year old gibberish! His face gets red and tears come as he raises his voice! He then tells me "POW MOM! POW!" As he spanks the side of my thigh and slaps my leg... then the real tears come...mine... all I can think is... "WOW. Connie. You are a HORRIBLE Mom." If you are even worthy of being called MOM. It's been so difficult to grasp that being a "Stay-at-Home Momma" has not been easy for me! If I was well and healthy I wouldn't mind the cleaning and cooking and caring for my kids but I think that because of health...the frustration comes a lot easier! I don't want to be that Momma..~~.grumpy and upset, un-happy and un-fulfilled.~~

That's when I am reminded....that's why it's not your time yet... everything in My timing Connie. I sit in the living room hurting physically and emotionally and I pray. My prayer begins ...Dear Lord, take my home and hold it. Give us favor and Love. Patience and peace. Dear Lord. Make me that loving mom who has kind words and warm arms. Allow me to embrace my life and love my children as they are. For them to love me for who I am... imperfect, human, and attempting to make things right...every day... Dear God hold me. Hold my children and my Husband.

I want a happy, loving home, amidst the chaos where WE make mistakes, accept the responsibility for OUR actions and words and correct them. I want a home filled with God. Grace. Understanding. Because we are human..and we. will. make. mistakes. Hopefully we will be grace-filled and correct our errors to make a better home. I pray. I Thank God for my life. Our lives together. My inspiration flies HIGH! Faith is restored and my slips are forgotten.

Is your home perfect? If so, HOW DO YOU DO IT?!

{How the "Kindey Stone" Crumbles!}

2011-10-17T15:44:00.000-05:00

I am sure that's not the saying but it's the truth in my case!

Just as I was getting newly inspired and I truly was on a roll...HA. I get sick. I wish it was a 24 hour bug but it's been a two week pain in the buttocks! I had a kidney stone; it was a big booger... 6mm, on the bigger end of kidney stones, yes ONLY ME! My Husband says; "I have a kidney stone and you have to have SURGERY to get yours removed, why are you always trying to one up me!" Ha. He is silly. But, I finally had surgery on Friday and am now recovering. I don't wish this kind of pain or situation on anyone, it's not a comfortable one. I also realized that I have full blow panic attacks during surgery... well, that I have had them during my 2 C-Sections! The Anesthesiologist on Friday pointed that out...Thanks Doc, as if I don't have enough faults already! HA!

Also going on; my Dad, a construction guru decided that this weekend...while I was sick and in the hospital was the weekend to start remodeling my house! Yes! What are we doing? Camila's room, finally being started on; she needs her big girl crib cause her bassinet is no longer cutting it! Also, my bathroom needed some re-doing and that was started also; and even though I am laying on the couch or in bed directing it all it's still a bit stressful; but it's much needed and very much appreciated!

So; with the remodel of Cami's room came, moving our computer! Yep it used to be in the room in a corner by a small window and even though it provided much inspiration for a couple of years, I think that I was in need of this change! It now sits in the core of the HOUSE. Where all the fun happy Blessed chaos happens! I think oodles of inspiration will come from it!Yes. Oodles! He.He.

That's what my absence from Blog-Land has led me to.... what about you?

What are you up to these days!?

I pray that you are renewed, inspired and Blessed!

Moving Forward.

2011-10-11T17:20:00.000-05:00

All I know, is that life goes on...

Everyday...

We must worry about our loved ones and more so about our own little families more than those around us. People are people. Everyone has problems. We are not here to fix others lives we are here to support and move forward in our own.

My family; my kids and my Hubby are what I strive to improve and protect everyday! I try to be there for others..but at the end of the day, I can't be every where...at least not successfully...

With that said...

Welcome...

This is a new season to Momma of Dos...

In a few months my Hubby will be, God willing, closer to a college degree! We will have placed yet another election behind us {I work in the Elections Division } and my kids will continue to grow before my eyes....everyday!

I have several topics to discuss in the months ahead some of the topics include:

Daycare Dilemma's...still..
Potty Training and more...
That pesky Vlog
My Health and Staying Healthy as a Momma of Dos...
Never loose Hope... La Esperanza muere al ultimo...o nunca muere...
Momma Wish List
Recipes for the Holidays
Momma Friends
And SO MUCH MORE!

Oh yes..did I mention... I'M BACK!!!!!

Camila {6 MONTHS!} ♥

2011-10-10T16:50:00.000-05:00

6 months ago; lifewas different.

Just as we were adjusting to sleeping all night and wholemilk, we are Blessed to be there again….

A beautiful little Angel fell from the sky and into ourarms.

Her name.

Camila Isabel.

Her grace, abundant.

The love, showered.

My heart once more filled.

My Husband once more on his knees, to pray, to Thank, toBless, to praise, worship and Love.

For God has been so good to us, it’s unimaginable.

I can’t remember life as 3…we are now 4.

I can’t imagine life without her.

Now a Momma of Dos.

Dos vecesBlessed.

Dos veces,AMOR!

Today we live, we cry, we praise, we Love.

Camila has been more than a true dream come true…she’s beenour little Angel to help fill the empty spaces in our home, her grandma smiles fillthose empty places in our hearts and her girly giggle fills everyone with joy!

I have been here before once.

It’s the story of an amazing 6 month old who is not just aray of sunlight and Blessing from the sky..but a true BUNDLE OF HAPPINESS.

She is a little circle of babble and love…

My Cami came into our lives 6 months ago…and it’s like we’veknown her and had her in our arms our whole lives.

Nothing should ever be different.

Blessings are so beautiful and we are more thanThankful!

Santi has a sister, Ricardo and I have a daughter and lifehas one more sweet little girl to embrace! .

I pray over her every night.

I pray that her life be filled with happiness throughout.

That even if she suffers she knows that God is has her heartin His hands.

Her life will be a great one….

We love her.

Her brother marvels at her…

Her father falls in love more and more every day….

Me, I was already in love, she has been in my heart all mylife.

Now, she is in our lives and we couldn’t ask for anythingMORE!

Blessed.

Today more than ever....

Santiago (My ALREADY 2 Yr Old!} ♥

2011-10-08T19:46:00.000-05:00

Ahii. Mi Gordo. He just turned 2!!! I can remember finding out I was pregnant in January of 2009 like it was yesterday and here we are today; My Big Boy!!!!

I have decided to write about Santi's Birthday in a letter to him!

September 16, 2011

Lil'Daddy,

It's been 2 whole years since you physically entered our lives; you lived in our hearts for many years before that. You've been the rock that holds us down, the glue that keeps us together and the wheel that helps this little family of four train keep chugging along. You've been the most beautiful little man to enter our lives, EVER! 

I want you to know that you are an amazing Blessing, your an awesome Big Brother, you are the Best Son that God has given us! 

I pray that as the years go by you can learn that Jesus is the one who can transform us from ordinary to extraordinary. That life is not perfect and neither are people but with hard work, TRUTH, and dedication anything is possible. That even though we can struggle at times NOTHING is too difficult to overcome. That your strength comes from God, prayer and keeping in constant contact with our loved ones. I pray that you can grown to be a respectful man of true honor and integrity but that you  know that you can stand up to anyONE no matter what in order to be a fully respectable person! Your Dad and I will be here for you as much as we can but there will be a day when you have to leave our side and become an adult. With that said I pray that we can make your childhood and adolescence an enjoyable time and not a stressful stage. That we can then teach you that as you become an adult you should be independent, self-sufficient, and  considerate. I also pray that God continues to protect you from harm and that you can choose friends who will allow you to grow, build you up and protect you. Know that God is truly good. Learn that although life is not fair, it is what we make of it. 

I also want you to know that your Dad and I, love you, and Cami, more than life. That the sacrifices we make now are for the better of our family in the future. Please don't resent us for working long hours and going to school when we should be cuddling with you on the couch at night. Know that what we do, we don't do for recognition but for the economic stability of our little family.  Our parents came to the U.S. many years ago for us to have a better life than they had and the same way that I hope we are making them proud, I pray that in the future you can be proud of our struggles and accomplishments for the better of our family. 

I know you are only TWO but this is life. These days you spend your time running around and never tiring. Whining but not really crying. Laughing with your heart and soul and enjoying life as every child should. You love to make your sister nervous as you playfully pull her from side to side, don't worry she is a tough one...you don't scare her, she loves when you're silly and is never bothered by your screeching yells! You are ALL boy. The sweat in your eye and boogers on your shirt don't phase you, you thrive on the everyday excitement of learning and living to the fullest. You dance and repeat almost every word we say! You are playful and a joke-ster but  you hate being scared or caught off guard. You know how to push our buttons and that even though we play and have fun there are serious times when you know you are not suppose to do certain things. You are fearless against the chancla and punch your great-grand-ma when she tells you..."ven hijo"..ahii. You love rock music and can dance to just about anything. You love music and for some reason your fascinations are Yo-Gabba-Gabba and the Wiggles. Ahiii. You know Spanish and English and I hope  you keep it that way, trust me, you will thank me later. Te lo juro, es lo mejor para ti, y tu futuro!

Your Dad. He is a strong person of Faith even though he claims to be otherwise. You should respect and look up to him, he is doing a lot for us right now. He loves you more than you will ever know. I am sure that as the years pass his ways will change but for now, he holds you when you cry, he eat your go-gurts, and he loves Rio! He's prayed for you many a nights and he will give his life to see you happy. I hope you can more than appreciate everything that he does and listen to his every words with Faith that he only wants the best for you. Know that you can go to him for anything. He is a great person. Know that when he is serious he is serious but when he is joyful he is amazing! 

Your little sister Camila. She is only 6 months and already you are her world and amazement. She wants to be YOU! She wants to keep up with you and be with you all the time. She laughs when you're silly and cries when you hurt her feelings. Be gentle, protect her and keep her close. She will be all that you have when we are gone. 

I don't want to scare you but I always want to speak to you with the truth. Know that we love you and that we've needed you in our lives always....

Happy 2nd Birthday Santi! 

Tu eres todo para nosotros. Tu eres quien ha llenado nuestras vidas de amor. Y entre tu y tu hermana son todo lo que necesitamos para vivir. 

We love you, 

Momma

P.S.{You are 32lbs, and 35 inches tall. The day of your 2 yr check up your doctor gave you 4 months to start talking in TWO word phrases. You are still drinking our of your bottle and not potty trained yet. I am giving you time. You are a healthy little boy and love to eat!}

On your second birthday your Grlan'ma' Chelo bought you a cake and we gave you a movie...Madagascar, which you broke in half the following morning... Ahii. 

{Your Momma was working outside the home for Harris County in the Elections Dept and your Daddy was doing an Internship at 32 with Vaughn Construction, he was also taking his last 5 of 6 classes and keeping a tight budget for us to make it through one more semester. You and Cami are being taken care of by your Gran-Ma' Martha, at her home, everyday. I know you give her a hard time but she doesn't mind it at all. Ever.}

You love your Cowboy Hat and boots, you LOVE your rocking horse, you feed it and ride it almost everyday. You love your tent which sits in the middle of the living room and you love s'plite and go-go's. You are great at sharing food but not so much your toys, you'll learn. You love movies and think that if you tap the side of the TV a new movie will start. Everyday you do a different dance and you sing along with all your movies. We can't get enough of all the silly things you do and learn. We laugh everyday and love you more and more as time goes by.....

I am sure I have forgotten many other things that we want to say, that we love about you and that you have learned in these 2 years but know that you are loved. That you love everyone. Smile and kiss every girl you can and hug just about anyone. You love to high five and knuckle love. You say Go'nite and 'sta manana {without the accent, Ha.}. 

{Out of Pocket}

2011-10-04T11:12:00.002-05:00

I know.

I have lost touch.

Not sure when I will be back..but I hope it's soon.

For now..I have one request...

Prayer Request that is....

For our family.

Extended family that is....

My Husband and his family need your prayers....for healing...strength...faith...clarity...victory!

I know they will overcome.

God performs miracles...and we are seeking his Faith! His Face!

Psalm 21:11; "though they plot evil against you and devise wicked schemes, they cannot succeed; for you will make them turn their backs!"

Thank You for your patience....

May you have a Blessed week....