Monday, December 25, 2017

Feliz Navidad

Mariah Carey "O Holy Night"


Lyrics:

Oh, holy night, the stars are brightly shining
It is the night of our dear Savior's birth

Long lay the world in sin and error, pining
Till He appeared and the soul felt it's worth
A thrill of hope, the weary world rejoices

For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn'
Fall on your knees, oh, hear the Angels' voices Oh, night divine, oh, night when Christ was born Oh, night divine, oh, night, oh night divine

A thrill of hope, the weary world rejoices
For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn'
Fall on your knees, oh, hear, hear the Angels' voices

Oh, night divine, yeah, oh, night when Christ was born
Oh, night divine, oh, night, oh night divine
Oh, night divine
Oh, night divine
Oh, night divine

Feliz Navidad,
Monica




Tuesday, December 19, 2017

EL Maquillaje | Makeup

Makeup and skincare are a part of my daily morning routine. I find as I get older, my skin is getting drier. I get hormonal breakouts too.

Life after 40 is full of surprises. Many of them are great. I feel more comfortable and confident with myself. I don't feel like I need to please others. If someone doesn't like me, oh well!

I used to find reasons to be away from home. Now a perfect night in consists of a homemade  spa treatment, a good book, and an intriguing movie.

Great skincare can be muy caro. I am always looking for ways to save money on my favorite products. I download apps, carefully look through magazines, and visit Amazon daily. I'll be sharing my favorite beauty deals with you in 2018. If I'm happy and saving money, I want the same for you! The deals won't just be on makeup, I enjoy electronics, books, and pet products.

Stay tuned. We're in this together.

Abrazos,
Monica


Thursday, December 14, 2017

Let It Go

*When someone decides to ignore you, let them go. Grieve privately, pray, and go on with your life.

*I never thought I would buy anything from a Kardashian/Jenner. Never say never. Kylie Cosmetics are amazing. The lip-glosses are beautiful. They last for hours, feel great, and smell delicious. I wrote about this before, but back then I only tried a few shades. Now I am hooked!! I recently tried her pressed illuminating powder. It goes on smoothly and stays on. Impressive. Picture of me wearing "Cupid" lipgloss and the "Salted Caramel" powder. 



*I am back in grad school taking classes. I have always loved school. Writing papers, doing homework, and studying are my idea of fun. I have two final exams tomorrow. I have gotten an "A" on the last three ones I have taken this semester. Nervous about the last two. My goal is to renew my Supplemental Computer Technology Endorsement in 2018 and eventually move up to the high school.

*Christmas is just a week nine days away. I am almost ready. I have Christmas dinner mapped out. I just need to finish shopping. I have a badly sprained ankle and a broken foot. The walking boot has slowed me down. Grateful for it, crutches are a nightmare!

*My wonderful manicurist introduced me to the line of CDN Vinylux polishes. Found them online for a bargain price. I have been painting my nails weekly. Haven't done that in years. I am a stickler about getting pedicures, but my fingernails got by with just a clear nail polish after I got tired of "pink and white" tips. Spending more time on me. Hair and makeup really make me feel better. It's an easy pick-me-up on days when I have run out of spoons. The Spoon Theory

*La verdad es muy importante. Working on being honest. Little white lies have ruined many lives. I'm done. Sometimes the truth hurts, but a lie no matter how small leaves scars.

*Thank you amazing readers for sticking with me for all these years. Looking forward to an interesting 2018.

Happy Holidays,
Monica

Sunday, December 3, 2017

Reflexión

Our family had Thanksgiving at my brother's house. This was the first time his wife and he hosted a holiday dinner. Gina did a great job. She decorated the house and cooked a delicious turkey.

This was the first time I didn't spend Thanksgiving con mi hija. It was sad. I missed her. She had a Friendsgiving in Chicago. I am blessed to have have had her by my side for all of her life. Things change. I don't like change, but it is a part of life...

I am grateful for good health, family, friends, and a roof over my head. I hope Christmas at my house will be as delicious as Thanksgiving was at my brother's.


Abrazos, 
Monica 

Saturday, December 2, 2017

Hugh Heffner

It seems that when Hugh Heffner died, some kind of force field that protected powerful men in the United States was destroyed. Almost every week a new man has been found to be some sort of sexual predator.

Matt Lauer is the latest pervert to be brought to justice. He was fired from the "Today Show". His multi million dollar contract will not be paid. The article from Variety made me sick to my stomach. I feel terrible for the women who were subject to his sick actions.

I hope men have learned from all of these reports. No means no! The majority of women aren't turned on by a naked man at work. It's insulting. If I had a meeting with my boss and he took his penis out and expected me to do something to or with it, I would call the police.

If you are reading this and someone at work is sexually harassing you, document everything. Write down everything that has happened. Include dates, times, and as many details you can remember. Note any scars, rashes, or birthmarks. Go to your Human Resources office and file an official complaint. If nothing is done, call an attorney. Keep all records in a safe place. Keep a hard copy of these records in a location that is not at your home.

Si estás leyendo esto y alguien en el trabajo te está acosando sexualmente, documenta todo. Escriba todo lo que ha sucedido. Incluya fechas, horas y tantos detalles que pueda recordar. Tenga en cuenta las cicatrices, erupciones o marcas de nacimiento. Vaya a su oficina de Recursos Humanos y presente una queja oficial. Si no se hace nada, llame a un abogado. Mantenga todos los registros en un lugar seguro. Guarde una copia impresa de estos registros en una ubicación que no se encuentre en su hogar.

2017 keeps surprising me every day...

Take care,
Monica

Monday, November 13, 2017

English Roses

This has been an intense year. It seems 2017 is the year of the "unmasking". It's actually a good thing. I want to know who people really are on the inside.

I have deleted people from my social media and my life. Enough is enough. There is so much negative energy in the world right now, I need positivity around me. Freedom of speech has consequences...

My love for flowers has tripled. When the new 365 Whole Foods Market opened up in Summit County my world changed. They have amazing Fair Trade organic flowers for $5.00. 💟 My home is full of flowers now lol. Los flores son mi pasión. Take a look at my IG. I reposted these beautiful English roses this morning.

More updates coming soon!

Besos,
Monica

Friday, October 27, 2017

Survival

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Monday, October 23, 2017

Myeshia Johnson


This is a photograph of Myeshia Johnson. She is the widow of Srg. La David Johnson, a war hero who died defending the United States of America. Mrs. Johnson and her family will continue to be in my prayers. 

The 45th President of the United States of America made an inappropriate and disrespectful phone call to her last week. Instead of apologizing, 45 has made the situation worse. I am embarrassed that Donald J. Trump holds the highest position in our government. He is NOT my president. I don't agree with 99.9% of the nasty things that come out of his mouth and what is posted on his Twitter account. 

May God bless us all. 

Triste, 
Monica 



Friday, October 6, 2017

Stan Hywet Hall

I had the wonderful opportunity when I was a teenager to be a tour guide at Stan Hywet Hall during the summer months. I was responsible for conducting the Spanish speaking tours. Despite the overwhelming heat, I enjoyed my time at the mansion. I even had the opportunity to see a couple of ghosts!

There were so many places inside and outside of the mansion that brought me great joy. The English Garden was (and still is) my favorite area. If you are ever in the Akron, Ohio area, I highly recommend visiting Stan Hywet Hall. Plan on at least 2 hours minimum to experience all this amazing place has to offer!

(Photo taken by me during a recent visit) 


Sincerely, 
Monica 

Saturday, September 30, 2017

Puerto Rico

Cleveland, Ohio has a large population of Puerto Rican people. At one time it was second after New York. Many of my friends who I love are Puerto Rican. Here is my story.

I have attended the Annual Puerto Rican Parade and Latino Festival since the 90's. After attending for so long, I decided to join the organization who sponsors the parade. That was around 2002 (dates are fuzzy). I wanted to help because the parade and festival gave me so much joy.

The Julia de Burgos Cultural Arts Center in Cleveland is one of the most well known nonprofit organizations in the city. After being a member of the parade and festival planning committee for a few years, I was honored to be asked to join the Board. After serving on the board for one year, I was elected secretary. I actually cried because I was so touched.

Julia de Burgos is a mostly Puerto Rican organization open to any Latinos who want to participate. *They also provide opportunities for all people, not just Latinos. It's a cultural arts center and a second home to many Latinos on the west side of the city.

I still remember the first time I walked into the center. I was nervous because I didn't know one person. The President, Natividad Pagan (RIP) welcomed me con un abrazo fuerte.

Everyone was amazed that I drove all the way from Summit County to attend the meeting. Over the years I would drive back and forth two times a day! I didn't mind. There was work to be done!! Plus I enjoyed my time at the center. It was truly my home away from home. My friends are like mi familia.

I share all of this information to let you know my connection with Puerto Rico and Puerto Rican people. Right now la isla Puerto Rico is suffering. Hurricane Maria destroyed the island. Most are without power, water, and gasoline. People are go to die without our support.

I gave been tweeting legitimate charities and organizations that are helping. My Twitter is http://www.twitter.com/mlvlatina  ➡️@mlvlatina. Please donate. Any amount helps.

Below are some of the organizations I have personally researched and/or donated to over the past weeks:

https://internationalmedicalcorps.org

http://www.humanesociety.org

https://www.globalgiving.org

http://somosunavoz.com

These are just a few. If you are unable to donate, prayers and positive thoughts are appreciated and needed as well.

Sincerely,
Monica


Thursday, September 7, 2017

Better Days Ahead

I just celebrated my birthday on Monday. 🎂Wonderful day with my family. I even ate a piece of cake. I know, living la vida loca Lol.

It's hurricane season. Hurricane Harvey and Hurricane Irma have destroyed many homes and lives. Pets are suffering too. If you are an animal lover please text LOVE to 20222. It's an easy way to donate $10.00 to the Humane Society.

2017 has shown the true colors of several people. Just watch and listen. Remember to vote for the people that share your values. Sometimes it's impossible to vote straight party lines. Good people in the Republican, Democratic, Green, and Independent parties.

I begrudgingly tried Kylie Jenner's cosmetic line. Lip products to be specific. Me gusta MUCHO. I have to give it to her, Kylie Cosmetics are fabulous. Long lasting glosses and metals. They smell amazing. Count me in as a fan. Who would have thought? 💋



The school year is off to an interesting start. I have a new "room" in the corner of the library (pictured below). It is not considered a room because I have no door and zero privacy. At least I am not in a mold infested room... The problem is I am not allowed to teach. Yes, not a typo. There are two other classes in the library during my class. It has to remain silent, so I now pass out worksheets and walk up and down the aisle. It's sad. I became a teacher to TEACH. There is nothing I can do about it, so I will do as I am told. I cried for two days. I am still hurting, but life goes on. I feel bad for the students. They are the ones that have the raw deal. Please pray and send positive energy our way.



Abrazos,
Monica

Tuesday, July 25, 2017

Every year around the anniversary of mi abuelita's passing there is some new purple flower that grows in my yard. The bush shown below has always been pink. This week there are purple and pink blooms.


I can't explain it, but I think this is her way of telling me she loves me even though she's not walking around anymore. Mi abuelita loved purple. It was her favorite color. 💜

Abrazos,
Monica

Monday, July 24, 2017

A Modern Day Princess

                 A baby girl was born this year.


Her parents are Robert Kardashian and Angela White. 


Rob and Angela have broken up. There relationship has always been unstable according to both of them.


Rob and Angela have joint custody of baby Dream. I hope they will be able to co-parent successfully for the sake of their child. 


*All photos have been taken from public social media accounts. 


I sincerely hope that no matter what happens, Dream will be in a loving and caring environment. 
xxoo, 
Monica 






Tuesday, July 4, 2017

Happy 4th America!!


Happy 4th of July! 
Monica 


Friday, June 30, 2017

The older I get...

The more I realize it's better to keep things to yourself. Your thoughts, opinions, and relationships should be kept private. We live in a world where social media seems to rule the land. I am personally putting a stop to it.

I used to enjoy talking about one of my favorite reality TV shows online. I liked to discuss the episodes with other people who liked the show as much as I did. We didn't always agree, but for the most part almost everyone was respectful. Times have changed!!

This year I haven't decided if I will watch Big Brother 19 yet. If I do I will not discuss it online. The Big Brother Fandom has gotten out of control. Many people are overly passionate about the show. Even I got wrapped up in drama over a showmances during the last season. Wayyy too wrapped up, but in the beginning it was exciting. Towards the end I wanted nothing to do with BB18.

I am still a fan of Zakiyah Everette. I think she is sweet. Zakiyah is also very young and has an entire lifetime ahead of her. There will be ups and downs, but in the end I see her being successful. I hope Zakiyah keeps her future relationships private.

I was also a fan of Paulie Calafiore. This changed when he broadcast a Periscope tells all Zaulie fans what they could or could not do or say online. I was shocked. I then started to really pay attention to how Paulie treated people. I didn't like what I saw. That was the end of the "Zaulie" Fandom for me. I haven't looked back since.

In my personal life I am also keeping all relationships to myself. A little mystery is best lol. This includes friendships. I learned my lesson about true friendship in 2012. Be careful who you let into your life and into your circle of friends.

Abrazos,
Monica

Saturday, May 27, 2017

Risks

I'm still around. It turns out working in a mold filled classroom will make you very sick, especially when you have a severe mold allergy. I can't say much more until I finish the legal process. My advice is to always visit your child's school. Make sure you ask about allergens. No one should have to spend most of their day in a "sick building".

After 22 years in a position it is incredibly scary to make a change. Nothing is happening soon, but plans are in motion. Listening to God. He knows what is best for me.

Memorial Day is approaching. I appreciate all the men and women who gave the ultimate sacrifice for the freedom many of us take for granted. Thank you.

The Cleveland Cavs are going to the NBA Finals again. As a fan I can't stop smiling. Nervous because we will be playing against the Golden State Warriors again. I have confidence in the Cavs. They will continue to #DefendTheLand!!

Spring is not my favorite time of the year, but I do love the beautiful flowers and bushes.
Stopping to smell the flowers, 
Monica 

Saturday, February 25, 2017

Masks

-I am seriously considering purchasing fancy masks. There are so many sick people at school. I have been ill since December 25, 2016.

-Since 45 became president, the world has been protesting. I have limited my time on social media. Too many sad and negative posts. I understand. I just don't want to deal with the negativity.

-Yesterday in Northeast Ohio the temperatures were in the upper 70's. In February. Hello climate change!

-I have stopped watching the news too. Listening to 45 speak is embarrassing and raises my anxiety.

-Hopefully my next update will be full of fun stories and good health news.

Take care,
Monica

Sunday, January 1, 2017

Happy New Year 2017


2016 was rough. Praying 2017 will be full of love, joy, and laughter. May God bless us all. Paz, amor, y salud.

Love,
Monica