latinmomof4punks

LATINMOM'S LOCO LUNES

2009-10-19T16:18:00.000-07:00

"May I speak to Mr. Beefy Burger, Please".

When I was in High School I wanted a job.
My Mom had always been the one, to set us up with jobs, but this time I wanted to do it on my own.

I had some friends that worked at a Burger place in town, called "Beefy Burger", so of course that was the place I wanted to work at.

I was nervous, but I called the owners #, that one of my friends had given me.

*This is what I said*

"Ah... yeah..... Ah..... I'm looking for a....... Ah......... job...Ah......... So could I....... Ah.......Please, speak to....... Ah?... Ah??? Ah???! "Mr. Beefy Burger"??"
(I had forgotten to ask my friend for his name!! I was so freaking embarrassed, but I kept my cool.)

*Man on the other line*
"Yeah, this is "Mr. Beefy Burger". (It was the OWNER.)
*It was totally, not his name, but he went along with it* LOL!!

I guess he must have felt sorry for me, or he must have been desperate for a worker? Cause he hired me, right there over the phone. LMFAO!!

Feliz Lunez!!

~Amor, Familia Y Cultura~
Betty

LATINMOM'S LOCO LUNES

2009-10-19T13:59:00.000-07:00

" Ha- Lo - Wee-Ne" (Halloween)

Why can't anyone in my family, just say Halloween? :0)

Growing up I had no idea my " Ha-Lo-Wee-Ne" was different than everyone else *Halloween*.

I had 2 costume choices.

1. Old Christmas play costumes. (Angel, Mary, Joseph etc..)

2. My Tia's (Aunt) disco attire.

Blah!!!

I always wanted one of those costumes that came in a box, with the clear opening that showed the mask. (Ahhhh.... that would have been sweet!)

Treats I received when trick or treating down my street. (Full of my relatives)

Fruit

Nuts

Cheese

Mexican coins

Rosary

Stale candy

Candle (To ward off evil spirits. WTF?? Ha!)

I don't think this was the norm in any other neighborhood?

We learned how to be tough, during Halloween.

This was the time when the older kids (& some adults) would scare us shi% less.

We were scared until we peed, screamed, shook, and ran with no visual direction in sight.

Aww, how I miss those days....

*I think my 4LatinPunks are in for some Good Old Fashion "Ha-L0-Wee-ne" fun this year, "LatinMom" style.* BOo!!! :0P

Feliz Lunes!!!

~Amor, Familia Y Cultura~

Betty

LATINMOM'S LOCO LUNES

2009-10-12T09:36:00.000-07:00

My Madre & "Moy The Police Man"

My Madre was pulled over for running a red light in our small town.

*The "Rookie" Policeman that stopped her was one of our old classmates, and Son, of a Family friend named "Moy"*

(Poor guy he had only been doing this for a few weeks)

She gets out of her car like a fiery bull. (Wearing bifocals, and bobbing her head of coarse!) LOL!!

She proceeded to ask him questions like,

"Isn't your Father and Mother, so and so??? (As if she were the official) Ha!!

"Aren't you that Gordito(Chubby) kid that played in

"MY YARD with MY GIRLS, and you use to cry

because they would beat you up"???

(*Wrong kid, but she used it anyways*)

Poor "Moy". (That was his name, or nickname?)

He was nervous, but he continued to be very professional and tried to calm my mother down.

"But, there is no calming my Madre down once she gets going". *Luckly I am not this way. :0P *

My Madre went on and on, about how she use to change his diapers ("Again" wrong kid),

How she was going to let his parents know about this, How she was going to have to ask for a prayer petition for him at church.

("cause of course she thought he was going to hell".)

LOL!

She then adds ...

"I have lived in this town all my life and, this light has not always been here". But you wouldn't know that, because you are "sooooo young". (using the "Town Elder" card.)

"I use to walk down here to go to the High School, back in the 50's, and I am not use to it being there", "Moy"!! ..... "Ah".... I mean "Officer".....

"Moy" gave my Madre a warning.

He walked away scratching his head with all the craziness and laughing, because he knew,

The High School was built in the 70's!

LMAO!!!

*Feliz Lunes and Happy Monday to "Ju"* :0)

~Amor, Familia Y Cultura~

Betty

LATINMOM'S LOCO LUNES

2009-10-05T16:39:00.000-07:00

Growing up in South Texas I learned many languages like:

English

Spanish

Texan

Tex Mex

"And" Spanglish

I incorporate all of these in my everyday vocabulary.

*Example*

"Hey Y'all",

Por que estan sitting there next to the carro?

*Translation*

"Hey You all"

Why are you all sitting there, next to the car?

*Here is another example*

"La Bumble Bee me pico on my shoulder".

*Translation*

"The Bumble Bee bit me on my shoulder".

Life can get pretty interesting, with so many languages dancing on my tongue.

I never know what sentence will be coming out of my mouth and in what language. :0)

"OH Yeah",

And lets not forget! The total misuse of a word. Ha!!

*Example*

Look at LatinDads "Pata".

*Translation*

Look at LatinDads "Pie". /P- ye/ (Foot)

"Pata" means Paw (like in animals)

LMAO!!!!

I tell 'ya, I'm a Loca LatinMomof4Punks mess. :0P

"Happy Monday"

~Amor, Familia Y Cultura~

Betty

*Unknown Mami just reminded me of something with her comment*

I roll "All" my R's. So.... I always make big language mistakes.

Example:

"Pero" in Spanish means: But

"Perro" in Spanish means: Dog

Either one I say, always comes out sounding like Dog. (Pe Rrrrr O!)

LOL!!!

"Thanx Unkown Mami" :0)

LATINMOM'S LOCO LUNES

2009-09-28T13:54:00.000-07:00

Homecoming is a big thing in Texas!

(*This is Homecoming week for us, so things get crazy*)

Ahhh...

*The memories I have of Homecomings in my Days*

When I was a Freshman in High School (1980's), I wanted a Rabbit Coat & Boots, to wear to the Homecoming Game.

(*Reminder* I lived in South Texas, Where there is no such thing as, Winter!)

*Oh! and I also wanted a Velor "Sweater" and Willie Nelson Blue Jeans*. (WTF???)

LMFAO!!!! (Yes, I was a Loca even then. Ha!!)

My Poor parents didn't have much money, but they got me a Rabbit Coat and pair of cheap vinyl Boots.

(*Tear* I can't believe I was sooooo selfish.)

"God Bless my parents".

I went to Homecoming looking all fancy.

("And Sweaty". LOL!!)

I was sitting there, "Thinking" I was looking all cute, when all of a sudden I feel someone stepping on my boot.

I look down and, OMG!!!!!!!!!

The tip of my boot was all caved in!!!!!

I tried punching it out with my toe, and Nothing happened, I couldn't make it pop out. LOL!!!

"Then"

It starts raining and my Rabbit coat got wet.

So, I ended up smelling like Road Kill, the rest of the night. Ha!!

*Ahhh, the Loco LatinMomof4Punks memories*

"I hope my kids make better memories than this".

(But I think it will be hard to top this one. Ha!!)

Feliz Lunes Amigos Y Amigas!

~Amor, Familia Y Cultura~

Betty

LATINMOM'S LOCO LUNES

2009-09-20T21:07:00.000-07:00

This Camera is too fancy for us. Ha!!

*I had just gotten my new fancy camera*

(I'm always LatinMomof4Punks, but I make my smart hubby into "Loco LatinDadof4Punks". LMAO!!!)

________________________________________

LatinMomof4Punks (Me): "Se Poncha El boton".

("You press the button")

LatinDadof4Punks: "Que Que Mujer"?

(What? Which one woman?)

LatinMom: "El Silver boton".

(The Silver button!)

LatinDad: "Este boton Mujer"?

(This button woman?)

LM: "Si ese".

(Yes that one!)

(*Click*)

LD: %@!#$

(Cursing me out in Spanish. Ha!)

("I Bring out the best in him".) LOL!!

:0P

Feliz Lunes!!!!

~Amor, Familia Y Cultura~

Betty

P.S

My son P.J had a Great 18th Birthday on Friday.

"Thanx to all for the Birthday wishes".

Sometimes they forget what I'm worth!

2009-09-16T17:24:00.000-07:00

My "LatinFamilia" sometimes forgets what I'm worth.
(Or at least I think?)
I don't mean they have stopped loving me, or disrespecting me?
They just seem to have Forgotten...

Today it will stop!
I will remind them of the wonderful treasure that "I AM".

I cooked this dinner to "SLAP" them into reality, about who "I AM".

"I AM" LATINMOMOF4PUNKS and wife to ONE VERY LUCKY LATINDADOF4PUNKS. Ha!

Today my family will eat this wonderful Homemade food. I will give them a guilt trip, while rubbing my legs and complaining about how my "Chess" hurts. Ha!!!

They need a wake up call!
And I'm doing it "MY MADRES (Mothers) WAY".

LMAO!!!!!

"Feliz 16 de Septiembre"

~Amor, Family Y Cultura~
Betty

LATINMOM'S LOCO LUNES

2009-09-14T19:16:00.000-07:00

18yrs. of Loco Fun!!!!!!!!!!

On Friday, it will be 18yrs ago, this Loco was born.

" Pablo Almanza"

AKA: P.J, Pee Pers, Baby Paul, Truman Paul, Peter, J.P, Fee Fers, Dude, Mijo, Papi, Cabesone, Calabaz

He came into this world with a square head and trying to come out of a "Round" shaped opening.

Ouch!!!

(I should have known he was going to make me pay, for all that I had put my parents through!) :0P

~Pre-K Years~

P.J gets into the car and is showing me his "ONE" award that he was so proud of.

He gives me an Apple shaped paper with A's written all over it.

He says, "Mom", look I got all A's.

I said, "Congratulations Mijo". (*insert hugs and kisses*)

Upon further inspection, of the "Award".

I noticed the A's meant "Absences". :0P

(* I didn't have the heart to break it to him*, so he went around showing his Award to everyone. LMAO!!!)

(My Sons actual Student Council badge pic)

~ Kinder Years~

On his 1st day of Kinder, he wanted to come home in the bus, with his big Sis Brandie.
I was awaiting their arrival on a rainy day with wonderful music playing in my mind. (Something like Tiny Tim's, "Dancing through the Tulips"). LOL!!
I was at the kitchen sink washing dishes, since there was a window that over looked our street in front of our home and I could keep an eye out for the bus.
I saw the school bus getting closer to our home, I anxiously awaited, to reunite with my Babies.
1st I saw Brandie getting off the Bus, avoiding mud puddles and being the "Perfect child". (Beautiful music still going on in my head, along with a "Thank You God" prayer).
"Then", I noticed P.J. (Beautiful music is screeching to a halt!)
"He is stepping on every freaking mud puddle in his way".
OMG!!!
In his new shoes!!!!!!!!!!!!
I stomped outside and yelled: (At the top of my lungs)
"When You get in this house, I am going to kick your A$$ little boy".
*He stops, and goes around the last mud puddle*
(What a 1st Day of School memory. Ha!!)

~Senior Year~

The day before Senior Pix, he decides to go blond without telling me.

("Yes, I was upset", but I laughed at him and asked if he was a "True Blond". *LatinMom's tough love* Ha!!)

The Principal at school had a problem with it, so P.J had to turn his hair back to his natural hair color.

*I'm an Ex-licensed cosmetologist, but I let him figure this one out on his own*

He goes and buys brown hair color, and

"Guess What"???

He buys an "Ash Brown" and turns his hair a dirty Brown/Green. LMFAO!!!!!!!!!!

"HAPPY BIRTHDAY MIJO"

Love You!!!!!!!!!!

~Amor, Familia Y Cultura~

Betty

"HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY MADRE"

2009-09-10T13:09:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Mom!!

(*Repost from My Sis @ http://laranaad.blogspot.com/ *)

Happy Birthday Wishes to my Crazy yet loving Mom. :)
We were at one of our Craft events a few months ago and I snapped this picture of my Mother you can see her to the right on hands and knees trying to connect some wires and I don't think she was suppose to be doing that. ha!!! Man, I love my Mom!! She was wearing a dress and people were walking and looking at all the stuff that we had in our booth and she's over there with these wires trying to plug them in. hahahahahaha!!!! I was trying not to shake as I snapped this photo. Keep in mind my Mom is turning 63 today.

My Dad goes to bed early at about 7PM every night since I can remember so my Mom spends her evenings working on crafts. This particular evening I was at her house visiting with her as she was working on some projects and it was cold outside so the "Gas" Space heater was on in the living room. I saw her working on a wreath and putting some decorations on the wreath and all of a sudden out of no where she grabs a can of spray paint and starts to spray this wreath. It all seemed slow motion NOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!! I shouted and she looks at me through her bifocal lenses What's wrong? she says I said Mom you are gonna set this place on fire and Dad is sleeping?! She says, " Pssshh I do this all the time so she proceeded to spray. lmao!!! I snapped a photo from the entrance of her front door with one foot out and one foot in. ha!!!

She definitely is one of the lights in my life. I love her dearly. Today is her Birthday and I wanted to dedicate today's blog to her. My Mom may not be perfect but she's perfect to me. I can only wish to be 1/2 of the wonderful and giving person she is.

~Amor, Familia Y Cultura~

Betty

(*MY MOM IS AWESOME!!! "GRACIAS DIOS" (THANK YOU GOD) *)

Over the Top Award!

2009-09-08T12:23:00.000-07:00

Over The Top Award

I got this lovely award from: krazymamakarebare.blogspot.com

Check out her blog she rocks!

Here’s how this one works:USE ONLY ONE WORD! It’s not as easy as you might think.

Copy and change the answers to suit you and pass it on.

It’s really hard to use only one-word answers.

1. Where is your cell phone? Purse

2. Your hair? Brown

3. Your mother? Awesome!

4. Your father? Perfect!!

5. Your favorite food? Seafood

6. Your dream last night? Forgetful

7. Your favorite drink? Tea

8. Your dream/goal? WAHM

9. What room are you in? Office

10. Your hobby? Crafts

I am passing this award on to: unknownmami.blogspot.com

LatinMom's "Labor Day" Loco Lunes

2009-09-07T13:13:00.000-07:00

"Labor Day"

Today I am celebrating "Labor Day" with my familia.

We are relaxing. LatinDad will be grilling for us. ("Let's hope he doesn't give me another Loco Lunes story". Ha!!)

When LatinMomof4Punks (Me) was a teenager, she decided to hop on a truck that took people to work on the Cotton fields of South Texas. (with other close family & friends)

"All I wanted was Make-Up and Hairspray money", I wasn't thinking about the hard work that might be involved.

(It was the 80's, the time of big hair and make-up that was caked on, so things got a little expensive.) LOL!!

As children my parents had been field workers, so they were "Very" against it.

My parents decided to let me go, since I was fighting them tooth and nail about it.

I jumped on that truck, Teased hair and all, and as naive as you could get. Ha!!

OMG!!!! IT WAS HARD WORK!!!!!

"I had no idea, my body could send out such awful smells". (Yuck!)

AND NOT TO MENTION, HAVING TO TAKE A BATHROOM BREAKS IN THE OPEN AIR".

(Yes, I squatted down and got my shoes wet. Blah!)

("I laugh now, because I was so naive and Loca")

By the end of the day, I had my teased hair in dread locks (from the sweat, dirt and wind in my hair), My body giving out some nasty B.O, my (Not so) made up face, full of dirt and grim and just a full understanding of what "Labor" meant.

I never went back! I only worked "1 Day". LOL!!

(*Pic of my Great-Grandparents who "Labored" on the Fields of our great country, just to give their family a better way of life*)

Today I can rest from "My easy Labor", because they (with Gods strength) payed their dues on the fields, so I could have a better life.

"Gracia's"

Happy Labor Day and Feliz Lunes!

~Amor, Familia Y Cultura~

Betty

LatinMomof4Punks Craft Fair Items

2009-09-02T21:32:00.000-07:00

Here are pix of some of our Craft Fair Items.We have a few Craft Fairs in the coming months, so we will be busy!

I am also putting together, "My First Ever Give Away". (Thanx Mamakarebare for the idea!!)

I will be posting that soon, so please check back!

~Amor, Familia Y Cultura~
Betty

LATINMOM'S LOCO LUNES

2009-08-31T17:04:00.000-07:00

"How LatinDadOf4Punks got cable T.V in my Cocina (Kitchen)"

LatinDadof4Punks wanted to run cable into the kitchen for his lovely wife (Me!) who cooks 24/7. ;0)

He starts, with running a long cable wire from the living room, to the kitchen.

Then, in good old fashion, "LatinDadof4Punks style", he wanted to DUCT TAPE the cord to the carpet in the living room, all the way to the floor in the kitchen.

He tells me, "No one will notice it".
WTF????
"Who won't notice 20ft of duct tape in the middle of my Casa (House)"???

LatinMomof4Punks(Me) wouldn't have that!
So I pouted, and told him to forget about "My Dream", to have cable T.V in my Kitchen. :0P

LatinDad wanted to please me, so he heads up to our attic (*it was during a hot Texas Summer*).
He was up there sweating, and "probably cursing the day he met me". Ha!

All I heard (From the comfort of my Bed) was.
"Boom"!!!!!
"MOM COME QUICK & HELP DAD"

I open the door, and see dust flying everywhere.
Through the dust I see two legs dangling from the ceiling and trying to find leverage.

OMG!!!! LatinDad has fallen through the ceiling!!

Luckily he was not hurt(*Just his ego*)

"This is how things role in our LatinHome".
Things get done "The Latin Way". :0)

"LatinMomof4Punks got Cable in her Cocina". (that she doesn't use anymore.) :0P

"LatinDad, until this day, says it's my fault for pouting".
I say it's his fault for marrying a "Loca LatinMom". Ha!!

"Feliz Lunes" (Happy Monday)

~Amor, Familia Y Cultura~
Betty

"Latin Mom's Loco Lunes"

2009-08-24T06:48:00.000-07:00

"I Forgot my Shoe's Ma"

"My Family and Road Trips do not mix well".
(Believe me! We have had many "Griswold" moments.)

A few summers ago we headed out on a 3hr. road trip to go see my nephew swim in a competition, and meet up with my Madre.

We loaded up all our sleepy children in the van.

* Most slept with shoes on, since they know Mom and Dad (Us) will be packing everything else, & we will not have time to worry about that.*

"So", we get to our destination, and as we are getting out of our van,

I hear.............

" I Forgot my shoe's Ma".

I turn to look. I see Brandie's, freshly painted toe nails, and "Shoeless" feet.

( OMFreakingG!!!! Ching%@!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (Spanish curse word) )

!!!! I'm having a total, LatinMomof4Punks break down !!!!

My Madre, takes Brandie into the building.
(After she sees that I'm in my, "bobbing head mode", speaking Spanglish, and totally whacked out with frustration)

"Luckily they were selling shoes @ a table".

One of the girls asks my Mom:
"What kind of shoes are you looking for"?

My Mom then says:

"Some Bit@% Shoes". (*Girl looking at my Mom and Brandie stunned*)

LMFAO!!!!!

Brandie comes and sits down next to me, with her confidence in ruins,("But, wearing shoes") and whispers to me. "Now everyone thinks I'm a Bit@%.

I asked her what happened? and she told me what "Momo" (My Madre) had said.

I just laughed and said: "That's what you get & I hope you forget your shoes again". (*Latinmom's tough Love*)

*All along, my Madre is sitting, & Munching on some Pop Corn, all proud of herself, because she resolved her Granddaughter's problem.*

LMFAO!!!!!!!!!! (" I WANT TO BE JUST LIKE MY MOM")

* My Madre meant: "BEACH SHOES" . *
"And Believe me", Brandie has never forgotten her shoes again. Ha!!!

"Feliz Lunes" (Happy Monday)

(YAY! 4LatinPunks are at school!!!!) :0)

~Amor, Familia Y Cultura~
Betty

16 Years have passed

2009-08-21T07:46:00.000-07:00

In Memory of Pablo(Paul) Almanza Sr.

(last pic of our kids with their healthy looking Father)

*We didn't know he was sick and would be gone in 6 months*

Sunday will be 16yrs. since our children have seen their Father. I will mourn for their loss, and this will be a hard weekend for me.

*I have since remarried, and my 2ND husband has done an awesome job helping me, raise Brandie and P.J as if they were both of "Ours".

"But as a Mother, I still hurt for Brandie and P.J, because no matter what, they will always miss their Dad".*

"I Hate Cancer"!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

*I don't mean to be a "Debbie Downer" today, but this is in Memory to a "Great Man" and it helps me too*

Pancreatic Cancer came into our lives (without an invitation!) and it tore our lives to shreds, within 6 months it destroyed all that we had built.

Paul was 30yrs. old (Dr. said this type of cancer is rare in young people *Just our luck*).

I was 25yrs. old, Brandie was 6yrs. old ("Daddy's Girl"), P.J was a month shy of turning 2yrs. old.

I was a Stay Home Mom, who had "Never" written a check or payed bills. I had always been "taken care of", by my parents and then by my husband.

As awful as this time was in my life, it was also a turning point, and a time of growth for me. This is when I became "LATINMOM".

~Amor, Familia Y Cultura~

Betty

*I will be back in full force for my LatinMom's Loco Lunes and I will have a happier post* "Thanx to all my faithful readers".

4 Latin Punks

2009-08-19T09:11:00.000-07:00

"I just realized this"...........

(4LatinPunks are in pic along with My Brother & Scott)

"School will start for these FOOLS on Monday"

YAY!!!

LatinMomof4Punks is very Happy. LOL!!!

Now, Why is LatinDadof4Punks Celebrating with a cigar??

"He's been at work ALL SUMMER LONG".
(Love you Papi and thanx!)

LMAO!!

(I love my kiddos, so please no hate mail) :0)

Latin Mom's Loco Lunes

2009-08-17T06:12:00.000-07:00

Loco Lunes: "My Son the prankster and my Chancla (Flip Flop)"

A few summers ago, I was painting the trim on the outside of our home, and my hubby was inside doing some work.

I guess, our son P.J (Big Prankster) was getting in my hubby's way, (or nerves?) because he sent P.J outside to help Mom, (Me) "without any warning". (Big mistake!)

I was painting the tallest part of the trim on our home, so I was having to tip toe on the last few steps of the ladder.

"I was scared! But being the tough LatinMom that I am, I didn't back down". :0)

I was concentrating on getting that darn tip, on my house painted, when all of a sudden, I felt the ladder shake, swirl and just moving back and forth like crazy. (My face was not one of a tough LatinMom at this point. Ha!)

"Crap"(I thought),

I'm gonna fall, so I braced myself for it. (almost into a half tuck and ready to role. LOL!)

Then I hear, someone laughing. I opened my eyes, and my son P.J (5 foot 10 inches), was laughing and saying, "You should have seen your face Mom", "Man, Mom your funny".......

My face suddenly turned into "Tough LatinMomof4punks". Ha!

"All 5 foot 1 inch, of me was PISSED".

I am looking at him straight in his eyes, while I'm cursing him out (In Spanish), & trying to get down that ladder as fast as I can.

I saw fear in my sons eyes. P.J wanted to run, but he couldn't, cause his "Mad Madre" was coming down that ladder, and he wanted to make sure she made it down safely. (Awww, how sweet. "But he better Run".)

As soon as P.J saw me, with both feet on the ground, and he felt I was safe, he ran as fast as he could. Ha!

I was chasing after him, while taking off my Chancla (Flip Flop), and luckily he runs and locks himself in our house, cause he knows I mean business. Ha!

"This Latinmomof4punks holds no prisoners", but my son did feel, he had to stay in a locked place until I cooled down. LOL!!!

My children learned at a very young age, that those Chanclas (Flip Flops) are not worn by their Madre as a fashion statement, or just another part of her outfit?

Those Chanclas have a secret purpose, they are my"Weapons" & I'm not afraid to use them. LMAO!!!!!

"Hope you all have a great Week and HAPPY MONDAY". Blah!!

Just a sample of our items

2009-08-12T20:40:00.000-07:00

This is a sample of items we are putting together.

After making one of these Aprons for my Sister Angela, I decided to make one for myself.
I wore mine last Halloween, while I gave candy out, it turned out to be a "HIT".

Blog Award from Katrina @ http://thefamilyties.blogspot.com/

2009-08-10T17:54:00.000-07:00

I was awarded this blog award from: Katrina @ http://thefamilyties.blogspot.com/ "Thanx Amiga".

She listed 10 things about her and so I think I will tell you all 10 things about me. Here I go:

1. My Family is my world!
2. I am the middle child in a family of, 3 sisters & 1 brother
3. I have been married twice but never divorced (?)
4. I was Widowed @ 25yrs. old
5. I Hurt, on a daily basis for my 2 older children that lost their Father
6. I am married to the best Dad & Husband ever!
7. Would die without my Mom & Dad
8. Would be lost without my Sisters & Brother
9. I am a "Mother Hen" & I truly worry about my fellow man
10. "I am strong willed"

So, there's 10 things you may not have known about me. What are 10 things about you? Here are some of the chosen ones that I have passed this award to:

1. http://laranaad.blogspot.com/ : My Sis
2. http://brandiealmanza.blogspot.com/ : My Daughter
3. http://marshacrawford.blogspot.com/ : Our Realtor
4. http://threepinkelephants-lexibrookie.blogspot.com/ : Amiga
5. http://krazymamakarebare.blogspot.com/ : 1st person to welcome me to blogging
6. http://mlcsmom.blogspot.com/ : Has a crazy daughter who likes to sing (LOL! Love the video)
7.http://apartyof6.blogspot.com/2009/08/michigan-vacation-day-4-greenfield.html : Has the cutest Etsy shop
8.http://thecraftychica.blogspot.com/ : Makes awesome art with a Latin flair
9. ??
10. ??

"Latin Mom's Loco Lunes"

2009-08-10T05:40:00.000-07:00

"Loco Lunes"

One day my Grandma Carolina comes over to my parents house. (She lived across the street) She sat down and was looking a little pale and nervous. She wouldn't say anything, but kept looking across the street, to her house. We asked her if she was O.K?
She said "Yes, Mija, me siento muy bien". ("Yes, sweety I feel fine")

She then asked for my Dad. When my Dad came out to greet her, she asked him to go across the street to check on my Grandpa.

When my Dad gets to my Grandparent's house...... There was my Grandpa cleaning their cabinets and scrubbing them down.

He tells my Dad, "Hey Mijo", this works great on greasy cabinets".

My Dad asked, what are you using??

My Grandpa says "Gasolina".

(OMG!!!)

My Dad then notices that my Grandpa was standing right on top of a Gas stove!
My Dad manages to talk my "clueless" Grandfather down from the counter top, and to put the gas drenched towel down.

When my Dad brings my Grandpa to our house, he proceeds to explain to him what kind of danger he was in.
My Grandpa, then looks at my Grandma and says.
"Why didn't you tell me Woman"??(In Spanish of course)
My Grandma says, " Por que, I got scared and I didn't want to blow up".

LMAO!!!

"I tell ya' my familia was not only "FUN but FUNNY" tambien, without even knowing it". LMFAO!!

(We have since lost my Grandma Carolina, but her memory & legacy live on forever. We Luv u Welita (abuelita).

Nuestra Casita (Our Home)

2009-08-07T21:37:00.000-07:00

We are spending our weekend relaxing, BBQ'ing & watching Movies.

"Hope everyone has a good Weekend also".

~Amor, Familia Y Cultura~

Betty

"I'm still here"

2009-08-05T11:46:00.000-07:00

And What a Mess!!

This is my Office/Craft Room, It is a mess!!
Me and Brandie are busy putting our crafts together for an upcoming show. "We are messy crafters". LOL!!

This is a sample of one of our items.
My hubby wanted a clip board for work (we even threw in some paper clips), so we put this one together for him, since he loves sports, the Cowboys and he is a great planner (mild case of O.C.D. Ha!!)

Since I will be busy today, I will be making Frito Pie for dinner. (My kids love this one!)

I call this dish: 3 can chili Frito Pie

In Pot over med. high heat Cook Ground beef until brown. Once meat is cooked add all three cans of : Rotel, Ranch beans, Vegetarian Vegetable soup. Cover and simmer for 15-20min (make sure to mix frequently so not to burn).

When mixture is done simmering, Add Frito's to a bowl and top with Chili mixture. Enjoy!!

This is a quick recipe for when I am on the run. Hope you like it!

"LatinMom's Loco Lunes"

2009-08-02T23:21:00.000-07:00

"IT'S LATINMOM'S LOCO LUNES"

"MY HIGH SCHOOL DAY'S". UGH!

In High School, I was a DORK. I was not only a "Member", I was "The Freaking PRESIDENTE". Ha!!! (I can relate to the movie, 13 going on 30)

One morning, my Mom was dropping me off at school. I guess, on this particular morning, I was feeling a little confident? Cause I asked my Madre to drop me off right in front of the Gym, where all the HOT guy's stood. WTF?? (Believe me, "I'm" even amazed at the balls I had on that day??) LOL!!!

I kept thinking in my head. " Hey", your wearing the right outfit, your make-up stayed perfect. "What do you have to lose"? (Why did I listen to myself??)

*Someone (GOD!!!) should have warned me "NOT" to get out of that car. I was sporting the Flock of Seagulls hair. (What did he expect??)*

Well, I opened the car door, grabbed my books, set one foot on the parking lot floor and proceeded to take a step.

But by the time I knew it, I was eating asphalt. OMG!!!! I had stepped on a "FREAKING" hanger, so my feet were all tangled up in this stupid thing. There I was crawling on the High School Parking lot in front of all the "Hot Jocks". LMFAO!!!!

*I can laugh now, because allot of those stupid guy's grew up to be "Nothings", but back then I was soooooo embarrassed.*

Thru my humiliation, I managed to get up from that parking lot floor, untangled my feet from that "Darn hanger", picked up my books, dusted myself off and walked right by those guy's, who I thought for sure would be laughing at me.

The funny thing is, "They hadn't even notice my ordeal". :0/ Ha!!

* I guess sometimes it's good to be a DORK * :0)

HOPE YOU ALL HAVE A GREAT WEEK!

~Amor, Familia Y Cultura~

Betty

"I'm disinfecting & She's Crafting"?? Que Que!!

2009-07-31T17:11:00.000-07:00

PJ is Feeling Better. YAY!!!!

OK, P.J is feeling better, so I have been disinfecting Everything from, walls, counter tops, knobs, remotes ("Si, even those"), I washed clothes, bed covers etc... etc.....etc......Whew! (& I secretly got on the scale to see if I lost some lb's?? "Don't even Ask" *sigh*)

""BEING 40 something SUCKS"" :0P

"Wait what am I thinking"??

My Son was just at deaths door and I'm thinking of "Me"?? "Ay Dios Bendito" :0)

"Bleach was my best friend today".

* It's usually a nice glass of Vino* Mmmm!

But I think I got every stinking bug out of my house. We managed to keep it confined to one person "So Far", so lets see if all my hard work pays off, and no one else gets sick??

Brandie was Crafting

and getting ready for some

Holiday Craft Shows we are doing

*Little Ms. Brandie*, was wonderfully crafting away, while I went Germ CRAZY. Ha!"J/K"

"She would KILL me if she knew, I even said that", cause she was right there beside me

cleaning today. (This pic was taken last week)

"Sorry Mija & Thank You for helping me today"

We have been busy putting items together for some Holiday Craft Shows. I will try to post some samples of our products.

"Have a Wonderful Weekend Amiga's/Amigos"

~ Amor, Familia Y Cultura~
Betty

"My Life is not a bed of Roses".

2009-07-30T06:38:00.000-07:00

Well, as always my life is not a bed of Roses. Ugh!

(My Son PJ is the one lifting the girl)

I took my son P.J to the Dr. yesterday because he wasn't feeling to good.
"Well", seems he came back from camp with a virus. "Influenza" to be precise.
OMG!! I have been going crazy disinfecting every inch of our home and making sure no one else gets sick, since we are a family of "6".
Can you imagine how long it would take to get rid of this bug if we each got sick?? "MONTHS". (Oh No!)

"BUT HAVE NO FEAR"..... LATINMOM (Me :0) IS HERE!
"She's faster than microwave speed , stronger than the strongest Tequila, can make round tortillas in one single role of her rolling pin".
"LATINMOM IS HERE, SHE WILL SAVE THE DAY".

("Yeah right", I've been making him take care of himself. Ha! J/K)

"I hope you feel better soon Son and Mom Luvs you"

"My First Blog Award"

2009-07-29T10:33:00.000-07:00

"I just received my first blog award", from The ramblings of a crazy mom.

I am passing the award to:

http://brandiealmanza.blogspot.com/ - My daughter

http://laranaad.blogspot.com/ - My little Sis

http://threepinkelephants-lexibrookie.blogspot.com/ - Cute blog & Boutique style items. "And she's super sweet".

http://apartyof6.blogspot.com/ - Mommy blog (already has this award, but Oh well!)

http://krazymamakarebare.blogspot.com/ - "The Ramblings of a crazy Mom" this goes back to you. Thanx!

The rules of the “One Lovely Blog Award” are:Accept the award, post it on your blog together with the name of the person who has granted the award, and his or her blog link. Pass the award to 15 other blogs that you’ve newly discovered. Remember to contact the bloggers to let them know they have been chosen for this award.

Tilapia Tuesday (LatinMomof4Punks style)

2009-07-28T16:18:00.000-07:00

Tilapia on a bed of White Rice, topped with Pico de Gallo

We had this for dinner the other night. This is for Tex-Mex Fish Lovers.

I put this recipe together on my own ("So sorry for the lack of precise measurements") I'm more than sure there are better versions of something like this out there, but this is what "My Familia Loves", so just thought I would share it with you all. "Let me know if it worked for you".

To Cook Fish: (Pre-heat oven to 350')

Place 6 to 8 pieces of Tilapia in pan lined with Aluminum foil , sprinkle each fish with Lemon Pepper (to your taste). Cover pan completely with Aluminum foil. Place in oven @ 350', cook for 20 - 25 min.

To make White Rice:

I usually make white or brown rice, according to instructions on box/bag . I also make sure I add salt(to my taste) and butter, while boiling the rice. (Make sure to follow directions carefully for fluffy rice). I make enough rice for 6 servings.

To make Pico de Gallo:

What you will need:

1/2 chopped Onion

1 chopped bushel of Cilantro

2 chopped tomatoes

1 finely chopped Serrano Pepper (seeds removed)

1 Lime (juice)

Salt

Add first four ingredients into a bowl (I like glass), squeeze lime juice on chopped Vegetables (make sure you take out seeds from lime), add some salt (to your taste). Mix Vegetables around just enough to evenly coat with lime and Salt. Cover bowl and place it in the fridge for about 20 - 30 min.

*I also bake Corn Tortillas in the oven to serve with this dish*

Place Corn Tortillas on a flat Cookie sheet, greased with olive oil, and bake @ 350 for approx. 6min each side or until golden brown.

Final Step: Get 6 or 8 of your best plates. Add some White Rice, followed with a piece of Tilapia and top it all off with some Pico de Gallo and "Enjoy".

*My kiddos "Love" this dish (maybe not an, all kid friendly recipe? But mine love it!). They sometimes don't add the Pico de Gallo. Depends on how hot I made it? But they will eat this every time I make it, so we "All" get to enjoy a nice family dinner together, without anyone whining. "YAY". :0)

"YUMMY"

P.J is back from UT Camp in Austin

2009-07-27T18:34:00.000-07:00

( Pic by Scott Saxton)

P.J is back from the UT cheer camp in Austin. He received a, UCA All American medal.

"We are so excited and proud of our son".

It has been a rough road for P.J. with making the switch from Football to Cheer, in the last couple of months.

He had been a Football player ever since he was around 7 or 8 yrs. old, but this year, he decided to try out for the LHS Bell Crew (part of the cheer team).

P.J has never had any cheer or stunt training at all. He tried out only because some of his cheer friends ("and I'm more than sure they were girls"??? LOL!) asked him to. "And he made Varsity".

And as you can imagine? It didn't sit well with his Sports loving "Hispanic" Dad?

But, Oh well? My hubby will survive.

It seems like Michael(Dad) is coming around to the idea of cheer, only because, there is a higher percentage rate, of P.J receiving a scholarship thru cheer, than thru Football, so that is making Dad except the change his son is making, a little easier.

Let's see what the coming school year (P.J's Sr. Yr.), has in store for him.

*Please keep him in your prayers*

"GO FARMERS"

LatinMom's Loco Lunes

2009-07-26T19:14:00.000-07:00

"LatinMom's Loco Lunes"

(Mascot Pic, for " Loco Lunes" will be this pic of my "Crazy" daughter Brandie. LMAO!!!)

I am going to "try" to dedicate my Monday's (Lunes), to blog about funny things that have happened in our family.

"Stories that bring joy to my heart, because I am proud to be a part of such an imperfect, funny and Crazy Hispanic Family".

I will start off with the one story that comes to mind when I look at my mascot pic.

My daughter Brandie is wearing my Mom's old glasses, and wearing a wig that my Mom found at a Garage Sale.

For some reason, this story comes to mind when I look at this pic:

"Momo Cursed"

My Mom, "who is a straight and narrow Christian", & has never cursed in her life, had gone to the Mall with my nephew R.J on a hot South Texas afternoon.

When they walked into the Mall, my Mom's glasses "fogged up".

She looks at my nephew, and says,(in her Hispanic accent voice.)

"Whew Mijo, my glasses are all, Fu%# up".

My nephew giggled hearing his Mommo curse. And my Mom had no idea what she had said. LMAO!!!

"I love my Mom, and I hope that one day stories like this are being told about me". ( I have the Hispanic accent, so it's a start. Ha!!)

*Pic of what my daughter Brandie really looks like*

(Pic by Scott Saxton)

The Drive In Movies in Ennis Texas

2009-07-25T22:59:00.000-07:00

Tonight we took a trip back in time, to the Galaxy Drive In Movies
in Ennis Texas, which is about an hour away from our home.

Our kids "Love" this place. It also brings back so many wonderful memories, of the few times I went to the Drive In as a child with my parents & Grandparents.

There is nothing fancy about this place? But it is filled with nostalgia, and the spirit of a much simpler way of life.

We had a great time! We watched G-Force. Our kiddos sat on the hood of the car with blankets and pillows, and they even saw a few shooting stars that danced across the dark summer Texas sky.

It was an awesome night!!!

~ Amor, Familia Y Cultura ~

Betty

2009-07-25T14:47:00.000-07:00

"Fun Fajita Friday Night"

Last night we turned on the pit, and made it a "Fun Fajita Friday Night".

Our Backyard was filled with the smell of mesquite smoked fajitas being grilled to perfection, in the Pit that Uncle Ray(My Sis Chris's husband) made for us.

It was a nice warm Summer night, in our quiet North Texas neighborhood. We made sure we brought the night to life, by putting some "Fun" into the Texas air. "Yee Haw". LOL!!

We spent the whole night in our backyard talking, eating, listening to music and just having some good family quality time.

"I live for these moments"

*Tonight (Saturday) we are driving to an old time Drive In Movie Theatre in Ennis, TX. *

"I will post a blog tomorrow".

~ Amor, Familia Y Cultura~
Betty

"Come Follow Me". Here is a Taco Salad recipe 4 U

2009-07-23T19:28:00.000-07:00

"Hello/Hola",

Just wanted to invite you to become a follower .

Please except this welcoming gift as a token of my hospitality, for stopping by and reading my blog. Thanx/Gracias!

This is a quick recipe my Mom use to make for us, when she was pressed for time.
"This is not anywhere near her authentic Tex Mex recipes", but it is quick and tasty never the less, & you only need one pot. Yay!

Latinmomof4Punks Taco Salad recipe

Here is what you will need:

2lb. Browned Ground beef

Bag of Corn Chips
1 can Ranch style beans

Shredded Cheese(Colby or Sharp)
Shredded lettuce (aprox. 1/2 head)

2-3 chopped tomatoes
1pkg. Taco Seasoning 3/4 cups Water

Brown Ground beef in a large pot. (drain if needed) When meat is done, add can of Ranch style beans, pkg. of Taco seasoning and Water. Stir and bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer 5min.

Add Corn Chips in a bowl. Spoon meat mixture on top of chips, then top with cheese, lettuce, tomato & Enjoy!

"Let me know what you think"?

~Amor, Familia Y Cultura~

Betty

Craft and My Valerio/Gonzalez Family

2009-07-22T08:54:00.000-07:00

Art's & Crafts Fun!

Today I got up with a need to craft, and work on a project. I looked thru my "Handy Dandy Craft Cabinet". (Gift from my Mother-in-Law this weekend)

I wasn't to sure, what I wanted to work on? But I knew I had to work on something!
It had to be something I could take with me, because Haley had a Dr. appointment today.

Today's Craft: "My Valerio & Gonzalez culture"

(Aunt Martha's Transfer: 9475_ "Down Mexico Way")

I decided to work on this guy.

My Tia Fina, taught me the basics to embroidery, when I was 19 yrs. old.

Although I never mastered this craft, I find this inner joy, and a deep connection to my Valerio & Gonzalez Ancestors, with every stitch I make.

My Tia Fina told me how she was taught by her Tia's and my Great Grandmother, when she was a young girl also.

What my Tia Fina taught me on that day, was a tradition that had been passed down from generation to generation in my family, & I am honored to be a part of that wonderful Family history.

I hope to pass this tradition down, to my Children and Grandchildren, and let them know how deep and rich of culture, my imperfect stitches are.

"Familia, Amor Y Cultura"

Austin Bound

2009-07-20T07:13:00.000-07:00

P.J (center in maroon shorts) & James holding up Savy

The LHS cheer team is Austin Bound for camp, at the University of Texas, they have been hard at work practicing their routines & stunts each morning before the crack of dawn.
Coach invited parents for a sneak peek this week, so I got a chance to go see my "Baby Paul" in action with the Bell Crew.

P.J has attended camp at UT before, but it was for Football, this will be his first year as a Bell Crew member, with the LHS Cheer team. I was interested to see him perform, P.J and the whole team did great! I am very proud of my son and I wish them luck at camp. "Go Farmers"

This will be an emotional year for our cheer team, since we lost Coach Wright this week.

Lazy Sunday Rain shower & Wash

2009-07-19T14:55:00.000-07:00

Today we had a Lazy Sunday Rain Shower.

My husband cut the grass today, while cool refreshing rain drops danced on him and a lovely blanket of shading clouds, shielded him from the scorching Texas Sun. Not only did my hard working husband enjoy the lovely weather today, but my backyard plants "LOVED IT", as well . We have had 100 degree temperature readings here in North Texas, so today's weather was a welcoming site.

It wasn't all a wonderful, lazy and relaxing Sunday? I had to wash clothes. Blah!!

I was excited to do my wash today though, because we just got our new economical front loading washer. YAY!!!!

We had been without a washer for a few weeks, so you can just imagine all the piles of clothes a family of Six accumulates? I had been lugging "All that Clothes" to the Laundry Mat and back, "Thank God for my Kids help", and we finally found the washer that fit our needs. "I Love it". (The things a mother gets excited about? LOL!!)

Our trip back home to South Texas

2009-07-16T18:12:00.000-07:00

My Mom made my kiddos some delicious, South Texas Raspas, with that

Oh So Good & Sugary Mexican Syrup. Yummy!!

My parents still live in the same home I grew up in, they even have the same phone number from way back since I can remember, all their neighbors are the same ones that we've had for years.

Down my childhood street, there are a lifetime of memories, that are being stored in the air and in the spirit of everyone that lives down Dakota Street.

Every time I come home those wonderful memories come flashing back. I am greatful for the awesome parents, family, friends and life God has blessed me with.

My memories down our street are endless. Days playing outside with all our neighborhood friends from sun up to sun down, playing Mexican Loteria on our Welita's porch, watching my Grandma Carolina & Mom hand wash clothes, and hang them out to dry, running thru wet damp sheets in the heat of summer, beans cooking and the smell of Pine Oil from a fresh moped floor, walking in our Sunday best to "El Kres"(Store in our small town) with my Mom and Wellita, a street full of Grandparents, Tia's, Tio's, Primo's, Prima's, Comadres y Compadres, and the ultimate feeling of love and security.

Our Street was awesome!!!

Although I didn't think it was, while growing up there? Because there was a "Point Man" at each end of our street. We were allowed to play outside all day, but we were not allowed to enter anyones home, unless my parents knew them well.

If my mother got a call that we entered a home or left our part of the street, we knew there would be trouble once we got home.

Or if one of the Point Men, people came out to re-direct us back into our boundry, we knew we had to listen and head back home.

We didn't understand that we lived in the barrios? Luckly, the part of our street was occupied by hard working honest people, family and friends.

My parents instilled good Christian morals, and they have so much to offer my children.

The legecy they are leaving us is a great one, and that is why I honor my Parents.

"We Love & Miss You Momo & Popo"

My First Blog

2009-07-15T17:21:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone

This is my first blog. I am new to blogging, so please have patience with me.

I will be writing about my Family life, My In home business (latinmomof4punks), cooking, or just anything interesting that happens in my daily life and routine.

You can also find me here:

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6387359

http://www.myspace.com/latinhomedecor

http://etsytx.ning.com/profile/latinmomof4punks