Change is Always Good!

Hola,

I have been trying to find a name that would fully capture all that I am doing.  Although I was happy with SimplyAna02, I didn't like that I had to have a number at the end too. I was looking for something that would show that I am a bi-cultural mother with different struggles.  So I went with Raising Mami.  At the end of the day, my children dictate what direction I need to go, focus more on home, study habits, cultural exposure, while still maintaining myself identity. I have one of the most rewarding responsibilities in the world, and I try to fully embrace it always. Looking forward to many blog posts to come.

Sincerely,

Ana

Matilda The Musical

Their 1st Broadway Show!

Matilda The Musical by Roald Dahl- Met all my expectations and more!

My girls experienced a series of firsts this past week.  Their first time on a plane, to the east coast, to the big apple.  It was truly a better trip than I could have ever asked for.  They were given an even bigger surprise when they were at their first ever show on Broadway.

They were eyes wide open during the entire performance.  The vibrant colors coming from the stage to the actors and their remarkable rendition of scenes from the movie Matilda.  They have watched the movie over and over throughout the years. This show did not disappoint! From Matilda's performance to the very big Miss Trunchbull.  Outstanding attention to detail. My girls were so excited to be there.

Even though the Shubert Theater is on the small side, it was perfect.  There is not a bad seat in the house.  We had orchestra seats and were able to see every last detail.  The way the musical orchestra brought to life the drama and comedy of the scenes was perfect.  My youngest usually gets startled every time she watches the movie and the scene of "The Chokey" comes on.  Presented in this form she was completely focused on Miss Trunchbull, played by Christopher Sieber. Every scene was right on, with the music, props like the desks that lied flat on to the stage floor when not in use.  They thought of everything.  All three of us were completely taken by Matilda, from age seven to forty.  We loved it!

The only downer was that we did not have space in our luggage to bring back the Matilda souvenir cups.  That's ok, as I plan on looking out for some good tickets here in Los Angeles to take them again.  So whether in Los Angeles or New York City, or a city near you, go check it out. Your kids will thank you!

What Broadway shows have you seen with children?

Smiles,

Ana

Essentials for blogger conference!

    Like the first day of school, we all get anxious.  What will I need? What will they offer me? I was fortunate enough to win tickets to the Lifestyle Blogger National Conference 2015 in Los Angeles this past weekend.  I knew that in 2015, I wanted to revitalize my blog.  Attending a conference would not only inspire me but help me learn. I can honestly say I was not prepared to go, but since I won the tickets it was on!  I began by ordering business cards through Vista Print.  I am a baby in terms of blogging, but I wanted to be prepared to network.  After all networking is the second biggest reason to attend any conference.  I was so happy to receive as promised and placed them in another pouch, since I didn't want them to get lost in my large tote.  Next I remembered I saw a video from Jennifer Ross, where she talked about her experience at a blogger's conference in January.

    I knew I was set in terms of taking my Whipping Post Tote, that i received for my birthday. It is an open tote, making sure that nothing falls out is key.  So, I began to gather my essentials.  I knew that I had to take my pencil pouch from my school bag.  I was debating on whether to take my tablet or laptop, but decided to take neither.  I figured with my notebook, I would be able to write down key points.  What I did need, was to make sure that I took a portable charger.  After all, I didn't want to miss out on taking pictures and I still wanted to keep my social media posts up to the minute! I also took a personal pouch, which held items like lipstick, advil, feminine wipes, and translucent powder.  I also took my smaller calendar to quickly jot down goals for my blog.  You never know when a bright idea comes through the brain waves. 

   I can honestly tell you I felt the part, I looked the part but most I was comfortable all day.  I drove over 2 hours to be at this conference and commuted both days.  I knew that I needed essentials to get me through.  What I didn't expect was to form relationships because of my essentials.  I sat at a table with some fabulous ladies.  During the conference we were encouraged to post on social media sites and my neighbor was running low on battery.  I pulled out my pouch and plugged her in to my portable charger.  She was so appreciative of that.  I think that as a woman, its important to be prepared but also share the wealth.  

Are you prepared for your next conference?

 

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