Mari's New Career Adventure

I am a little late  but Happy New Year and Happy Post Valentine's Day. As you all know I was a former capitol chief of staff for State Rep. Aaron Pena (R) District 40 - Deep South Texas. I was fortunate enough to land an awesome new career; something I have quite wanted to do. I am now officially a registered lobbyist. Now some may have a negative perspective on the title, I however have an optimistic outlook on it. My parents have taught me over the years to do my work right, make good choices and never deviate - hard work pays off. They were right. I have a very strong work ethic that at times I can't tell if I am working, that is how much I love my job!

In my former life, I was a cashier at a Burger King. Learned what it was like to take orders, ha, literally. Moved up to head cashier, learned how to give orders. Did pretty well when I got promoted to Shift Manager at 18. That is not bad for a recent high school grad. None the less, education was my number one priority and was enrolled fulltime at The University of Texas Pan American. The higher education institution that allowed me to be the confident, independent and leader that I am.

I am most humbled with all my experiences and excited on where my journey will be leading. I ask that you join me on this adventure for it is an exciting one!

Peace and Love,

Miss Mari

Life -- It Goes On...

What can I say, I need to make sure I make it a habit to write on my blog. For starters my morning was a rather good one. I think my body actually received the necessary rest it deserved. It is funny that I get to rest when I travel to Austin for work.

You see back in February I made a decision to move out of my Austin apartment and head home to Edinburg TX and do the commute to Austin back and forth. Why you may ask? Well, my grandfather was very ill. I could not think of the "what if" I had stayed and not gone home during this time in my families life. This is by far the best decision I had made for myself and my family. On Easter Sunday my grandfather, Lucas De Leon, passed away at age of 89. I found inner strength and inner peace in myself to get through those days and I was reassured by Him that he will be okay.

Since then, I have been finding more meaning in my life. Putting myself first, such as my health and fitness before anything else, aside from work.  I started crossfit training at Crossfit Rockkore where I have met lots of wonderful and amazing people just trying to get fit and improve their body strength and health goals. Plus I have lost one inch in my waist and hips :-) and throughout my body. I LOOK AMAZING! I am proud of myself.

I also started doing more work for my non-profit Just Kauz It's Right. We will be holding our first inaugural fundraiser themed "Soldiers Serving Students" at Club Cimarron in Mission Texas on June 27th. The event begins at 6pm-8pm with U.S. Marine Corps Color Guard opening our event. We are selling tickets at $25.00 donation. All proceeds go to benefit schoolchildren in Edinburg, Mission/La Joya and McAllen. I am very optimistic for this event and I hope and pray we are successful! We have invited General Sanchez to be out guest speakers and my fingers are still crossed!

On another note, today the President announced his vow to not deport illegal young immigrants.  I am excited for those who would benefit from this immigration legislation. However, I am a little peeved in the manner this action or decision was taken. I will not set my hopes high for those close to me who would benefit until I see a plan for implementation and follow through of this policy. It saddens me the timing of this decision being that of an election year, I just hope the effort's and actions were in good faith and not just for political support - "votes". But, despite whatever goes on in our lives as Robert Frost once said:

"in 3 words I can sum up everything I know about life: it goes on"

Peace and Love, Miss Mari

New Beginnings are a Blessing

Not too long ago, December 17th to be exact, I celebrated another milestone in my life, Graduation Day. Everything I had been talking about for the passed couple of months has finally come to an end, I am now a Masters graduate with a degree in Public Administration.  

As I arrived to the McAllen Convention Center, I bumped into my old high school buddy Crystal Rodriguez who also graduated with her Masters degree but in Anthropology.  Pictured with me are my sister, my best friends Giselle and Jessica.  These girls understand what it took to complete my graduate studies and quite honestly without these girls I probably would have pulled all my hair out.

Now that I attained my degree what is next? At least that is the famous question everyone has been asking me. You see my boss, Rep. Aaron Pena is retiring from the Texas House of Representatives. So that means I have a job until December 2012.  Since I manage his Technology committee I have some work set up for me so I will definitely be busy this upcoming year and I am excited.

I have no worries on where my road will lead me because the Lord has led me on a path of great success and wonderful memories overthe years that I know He will surprise me with something great and that I will love.  I have one job prospect in mind and that is my ideal job for this new beginning in my life. I think I would be a great asset to any company quite frankly because I strive to be the best, number one and that is not hard for me to accomplish, I have done it for 8 years for Mr. P.  Now, I wait patiently for my surprise to call on my phone to tell me I got the job! Wishful thinking but I deserve it.

Life is very complex. Too many things to worry about or think about but in moments like today, I contemplate on what lies in my path for my bright future. I feel so excited all I know it is something worth looking forward to!

Peace and Love,

Miss Mari

Giving is better than Receiving

I promised I would try to write down my best and worst experiences to keep track of the moving world around me. Well, I will report on some good things I have done so far this year and will start with one for now.   One of the best things that I could have ever done was to become a Founder for "Just Kauz It's Right" in June 2011.


You see, I was working through one of the toughest legislative sessions in Texas history and a special session as well with a thesis writing at a stand still...I decided to exert all my energy into something that produced something positive and good for the people I live with.  That is when I officially formalized my personal charitable effort into an official non-profit organization with the State of Texas.  I put together a strong team of individuals that understood the importance of education and sense of community and relationship with our teachers, parents, and administrators.


Through some in-kind donations, school supply donations and monetary donations we have our official website for "Just Kauz It's Right" where you can see our mission, board members and our events.  The best thing about the website is our official logo, I could not be any more happier to share that with you here.

This is the beginning of an effort that will help children in South Texas. I know the need, I understand the hardships, and I made a promise that I will help them and I intend to keep that promise. Together and United we will succeed and I wish that the community will continue to support us because we are here to stay and help because its just the right thing to do.

At our first JKIR Showcase event in August 2011 at the Dustin Michael Sekula Memorial Library with State Representative Aaron Pena and Board Members: (left to right) Maribel Reyes, Erika Conde, Rep. Pena, Mari De Leon, Felicia Ramirez, Lyna Campos, Juan De Leon, Jr. and Giselle Mireles. Not Present: Rebecca Villanueva and Victor Flores and Victor M. Garza, of Counsel, pro bono.

"Blessedness consists in the accomplishment of our desires, and in our having only regular desires." - Saint Aurelius Augustine

Life is my Treasure

Each day I wake up with a list of things to accomplish. Whether it is to be nice to the lady at the drive through or to get all the tasks done at work. Lately, I have been consumed with some tasks of my own, grad school. I feel as though I have not gotten past this road that I have been on for the past few months. 


Part of my mind says to give up and move on. The other part says you are almost there, keep going don't stop.  I am more than certain you have come across a time in your life when it is easier to just say "I'm done, done with this." But you gotta ask yourself, is it really? I catch myself doing that all the time. I recall back in my undergraduate college years when I did the best that I could and if I did not need to to do anything further, then I was done. You see things aren't that way anymore. I work full-time, I travel, I have to keep up with lots of news, but more than anything, I am a daughter, a sister, and an aunt.


Giving up is not so much easy for me. Giving up for me is giving up on my parents hard work and efforts of taking care of me over the years. I am their sacrifice. Giving up on my brothers is like giving up on their kids. They need a good role model to ensure that when things get tough there is always hardship but with determination and family support all is possible. To give up is like letting my sister down for all the help she has given me over the years. I have a lot to be thankful for with my family because they have been rock through every step in my life. 



To give up is NEVER NEVER NEVER an option for me and I hope it is never an option for anyone when they are trying to realize their dreams.  For me, it has only been a last resort option and I am glad that I have not had to pull that option out. 


What I can say is that through out the years I have managed to keep myself occupied and busy. My life has been a roller coaster but through it all I have made my parents proud. I have made great friendships and maintained a career.  Through it all though, my persistence to keep moving forward not just come from family support but from the Lord, Savior Jesus Christ. 


His reassurance that everything would fall into place on its own and that all I had to do was trust him is what helped me stay strong and patient. He has tested through out the years and although I may have fallen at times, He always extends his hand to me to help me me on my way to success, love, and happiness. It is through his unconditional love that also fills my heart each day to keep moving forward and enjoying life day by day.  Giving up entirely is like Giving up on Him; for that I can not do. 


My birthday is coming up and I am reminded each day about how blessed I am to have a Lord that loves you no matter what and is my NUMBER ONE SUPPORTER! 

My Checklist: Got it. Check.

After a very long and extensive legislative session I am glad to report I have survived. I am alive and 8lbs heavier...It's not that funny. But I have lost four pounds of that so I am heading in a good direction.  Over the past couple of months I witnessed a lot of debate regarding Voter ID to Redistricting to Pro-Life legislation. I am glad that five bills that were filed within our office were signed by the Governor. That is amazing. Essentially, our legislation is good policy and if it was not it would not have gotten signed.

I am amazed by how I managed my professional career as an office administrator and more importantly a Chief of Staff. I thought that I would not be that good and I was going to be scattered brains but I did it. I managed to maintain a very professional office with staff and get work done efficiently for our constituents. Working the late and long hours was something I did not really enjoy at time but when you establish great friendships with other staffers it just makes it a whole lot easier. This is was my first time in a different role and position that everyone I interacted with sure helped me grow personally and professionally. I don't know how else to say it but I was really blessed this session by everyone who was around me. For that I am very thankful for.

Yesterday, the Congress voted on a debt ceiling plan which I believe was super necessary. A catastrophe was diverted and I can only pray that we have learned our lessons and that politicians understand to make the right fiscal decisions other than be driving by party platforms. 

Another thing that is new with me is that I purchased a new 2011 Nissan Juke. He is Duke my Juke :) He will be next to me through all my newest and latest adventures! So far he has been good to me and saving me lots of money!

The month of August will be busy. I start finishing up my thesis submission, getting last minute approvals and hopefully I may graduate FINALLY with my masters degree. DEF WILL HAPPEN. I will be attending NCSL conference in San Antonio and I am def looking forward to it. Then I will showcase my non profit "Just Kauz It's Right" on August 20th in Edinburg Texas at the Dustin Michael Sekula Memorial Library.

As you can see I will be extremely busy this month, but it will be all worth it in the end.

Until next time, take care and Peace.

Life's Amazing Experiences

There comes a time in one's life when we reflect on our daily encounters...At least for me that is what I do. I made a promise that I would document my experiences this year as I work this legislative session and finish up my thesis for my graduate studies.

In life nothing is easy. People make sacrifices and people make decisions, at times not the most popular accepted ones. What I have come to learn is that the human behavior is very complex to understand. Lately I find myself consumed in the expectation to finish my studies this semester and managing a state office. I give myself props. My determination keeps me afloat in a very good way. My expectations are set really high that is leaves no room for mistakes. The only challenging part of my educational success is my time management.

Time management is very crucial for me. I have found a balance but as session begins to pick up I am worried I may fall back on my deadlines for graduation...but then I reaffirm to myself that it can be done. I am super determined to finish and graduate with my cohort. I just cannot wait to walk down the graduation aisle to receive my graduate diploma :) that moment keeps running through my head. For now, any words of encouragement would go a long way for me.

Aside from school the Texas Legislature has a very ugly budget deficit to address. University administrators are concerned about their state funding and their student growth population. Teachers are worried about the elimination of Pre-K, their TRS state contributions and education issues in general. Proposed gun legislation is beginning to surface in state offices and well let the lobbying begin.

With all the talks on addressing the budget crisis the State of Texas is facing, I am most heartily concerned about the Egyptian Revolution that occurred last week. Democracy is being to take shape in the middle east and I am trying to keep up with the U.S. role in all of this.

So much information to keep with, redistricting data to voter id. To the simple things...lets just say I need some energy boosters and lots of hugs from family and friends. As I always say the Grace of God is by my side.

I got writers block and listening to Johnny Cash...I think I am picking up speed :)

Until next time. Tootles.

Random Expressions of Kindness

This morning I woke up talking to myself and praying to My Father that he help me get out of bed.  I told him that I felt tired but I still had to get up from bed and get to work. I also asked that he allow me to live in the day and take care of all my worries and thoughts. That was all it took for me to get out of bed, He reassured me that my day will be blessed and full of happiness.

As I was driving away from my house to put some gas at the nearby gas station in the neighborhood, I could not help but notice an older lady walking fast toward the main street, which is quite a distance on foot. The morning was really cold as well and I thought that I should give her a ride. As I pulled over I asked her if she needed a ride and she smiled so very thankful as if I had just rescued her from a chasing dog.

Her name is Ana and she lives near my neighborhood maybe a couple of blocks away. None the less, she was happy that I had even stopped to ask if she needed a ride. As we drove she told me I needed to cover myself with a coat if not I would get sick, she talked to me like my own mother would and that was very comforting. As I headed to the bus stop to drop her off, she mentioned to me that she had two girls, a 21 year old and a 15 year old. Her eldest daughter is graduating from Boston University and her youngest is still in H.S. She says she is happy that her daughter is graduating. Then she asked about me, asked if I was married and what I did. I shared with her that I was a "soltera" not committed or at least absolutely with anyone but that it was complicated. Her advice was, "mija es mejor esperar y saber que sera para siempre sin estar con alguen a fuerza"....let me translate "it is better to wait and know that you both did not make a mistake than to be with someone that the relationship would not last"...These comments from an utter stranger with out me having to share anything at all summed up a simple thought in my mind. Her truth spoken to me in the early morning. She tells me that she told her daughter not to get married anytime soon and that her daughter replied, mother, you are right...marriage is not in my picture but I have someone to share life with at the moment.

This would be the second time well more than that, that I pick someone off the road its just a habit I have, but I promise I will be cautious.

So far my day has been great. No worries, sent out my niece's birthday gift, cleaning up my desk and taking care of stuff for work, not bad for a Thursday.

Peace and Love, Mari.

A Day at A Time

I have had a growing concern over my purpose in this life.  Lately I have been pondering my work assignments and my obligations to my graduate program.  I have been thinking of whether I have been cutting myself thin...but it had dawned on me just today that I am not cutting myself thin.  I believe the stress and the many challenges I have been facing lately are steps to becoming a better mature young woman.

I have been blessed with restless nights and memorable nights with my roommate's and close friends. I talk with my mother when I feel so worthless and helpless and she always reassures me that my time and efforts are not for granted. My mother always has the right words of affirmation to get me through the day.

After this week, I can begin to breathe and enjoy life ever more so.

Absolute Indication

Absolute indication is everywhere.  I tend to resort to it every day of my life. There are days when I want to just drop the ball and move to something else but then I get back in my zone, absolute indication.

I am going on a month in this great city.  The politics that surround me keep me entertained throughout the day for the most part. My mind is caught up in self expectations. My nights and evenings are spent trying to finish up an important paper. But, at the end of the day I feel as though something is still missing.  I know what it is but its not up to me to decide where things will go.  What I do know is what I want, absolute indication.

I was joined with my parents and great friends over the weekend and I realized that I am a very blessed individual. I have friends that literally lift my spirits up when I get in my own zone (for those who know me...its very rare when I am down).  I had an epiphany and a sense of peace surround me, like as if God was reassuring me. I am a strong believer that things happen for a reason. I am not a cold hearted person either. I strongly believe that God blessed me with a very strong loving heart.  Even though I have been hurt, I long for true love to flow back into my heart, but then again who hasn't been hurt?

This absolute indication I talk about is that life for me is only going to get better. Each day I think about how in the world I get through each day and I realize that I have this inner strength that gets me through it and when I am relieved from my work duties I take full advantage of my free time.

I am consumed each day with the many problems that surround us and I question if things really have to be that way. I wonder why the caseworker lets files sit on their desk, why people take advantage of their positions, why people who are just trying to make an honest living always get caught in the middle of government politics, and then why people can be so irrational. I am not saying I have the solution to every problem our country faces but if we just sat together and talked about the real issues then maybe just maybe we would find resolve.


Today, I felt really happy. Actually more happy that what I usually am. I will not indulge on why but lets just say the possibilities are there and I have an absolute indication that things may just be getting better. I look forward to the days to come and I pray each day that this happiness I have right now continues and doesn't stop.

Love you.

Tootles.

Feckless was the word of the day....

As I attempt to keep a record of my life encounters there was a word that we did not use in last Monday's Toastmaster's meeting, "Feckless."  I sure wish I knew this word existed because last week was a day that I felt pretty much feckless.  As I reflected on what I thought was a weakness was more of loneliness. But, I am proud to say that I am long passed that. 

My life now is in a different direction. I feel like I am fully settled in Austin. I got my nameplate, my new office, my new business cards "Maricela De Leon, Capitol Chief of Staff."  Although I have gone through so much to get where I am at, I am now working on positioning myself for a long term career in government.  I enjoy communicating with people especially interacting with them. It is what makes me happy. But, more importantly being within the circle of individuals that have the power to make change. I believe I carry some sort of influence but my opinion is given when it is asked for.

I do not feel weak nor am I a weak individual.  As I look forward to the road ahead of me I am determined to be secure in a career that gives me much fulfillment, desire and love to do what is right. One thing that just amazes me is that I feel as though I have not accomplished enough. I feel as though there is something else out there for me to do or be a part of. I am not certain what my purpose is but I am determined to keep doing what I have been because the road ahead seems pretty promising and exciting.

Just the other day I met two ambassadors.  The ambassadors were from Ukraine and Philippines. I would love to be an ambassador one day. I believe that would be very exciting and also a great contribution to my country and my community. When I dream, I dream BIG. I believe in myself and my abilities and I honestly don't believe in those who would put me down and my successes.

I have learned so far that life isn't easy, its definitely what you make out of it. I will be sitting on panels talking about important issues and seeing through that leadership is important for the success and improvement of every one's lives. I know what it is to struggle and I do not wish that on anyone. I am so glad that my education at a very early age taught me to be responsible, socially responsible and be a leader, a leader of action.  I will continue to do my part and I am very thankful that at such a young age I have accomplished so much.

Tootles.

I wish upon a star...

We all at one point we all have made a wish upon a shooting star randomly.  I know I have more than once. Some of my wishes ranged from I wish my mom would not get mad at me if she found out that...well, I will just keep that one to myself.

As I reflect on my weeks events I have to say that I wished so many things would happen to me differently. But, now I am glad things happened the way they did.  You see, I love being challenged and surprisingly even though I experience a lot of adversity and heartache, I get by and through it all.  I am a unique individual because throwing in the towel is just not an option for me.

I had many opportunities to give up this past week but with lots of prayer and and an understanding family I got through it.  I felt as though my life was falling apart. Being away from family and my very closest friends who have always been there for me with just one ring I learned the most to adapt to my new surrounding.  I adapted in a way that I did what I had to do no matter what because I am all I got.  My dad was wise in teaching me this at the age of 18.  This was my father's first advise to me: "Mija, you gotta do things for yourself and don't assume people will do things for you, you have to do things for yourself because no one else will do it for you."  This day, I could hear him tell me this in my ear when I struggled with my car, LOLA, who was giving me problems.

But as I sat with a manager I befriended on a Wednesday evening after work he complimented me with some nice words.  He told me that he had met many politically involved individuals and those working for elected officials and he said that I was very different from them.  He said some of those people, which some are friends, are very "snobby" for lack of better words, and that they talked too much and did not take it well when there was difference of opinion.  He told me that I am very calm, reserved and I listen. That he is able to have a conversation with me and I tried to understand his point of view. His opinion of me based on his observance and experience with others who do what I do, said that I am a strong willed person that is very grounded and has great strength.  He says one day, I will be recognized and that I will be well known.  I was not sure how to react but with I do talk a lot and I do listen. I don't get angry when someone tells me their position on something but we rather talk about it.  I was very humbled to hear that from him. He had made my day.

Sometimes I wish though that I could just find a person that would compliment me.  I actually don't ask for much, just to be loved and to be supported in what I do.  There is one individual that saying his name makes me very happy.  We may be different but he gives me peace. Just being around him makes me feel connected to someone else other than myself.  The times we have spent with each other are very memorable but are long past.  Men these days are just so confused with what kind of woman they want and vice versus.  But as I reflect in any future relationship I think about how important will I be to this guy and will he even make me feel significant.  I could easily say I would never date again but I will not because I do want to get married one day and have a family and travel the world. But for now, I would like someone to share my life experiences with. I am at a moment in my life that I wish I had someone to call when I had a happy moment, right now when I do call I get no pick up or no call back.

I know there is definitely nothing wrong with me but I know God has someone special for me.  I just pray that God will send me a nice, tall, handsome man soon....hey a woman can wish right.

Well, I am gonna hit the sack. Sorry for my mushiness but this thing called "LOVE" is just too complex.

Tootles.

Loneliness is a sad Feeling

Sometimes I think about how it would feel if I knew no one. I wonder how would it be like if I were to live that way?  Well this morning I felt so lonely that I wanted to cry.  This may sound super emo but I am trying to take it in as an experience that will make me stronger.

This is my third time moving up to Austin and each time it is something new that has to get the most of me.  I can recall the first time I moved here I was about 20 years old. I knew no one but I had my cousin and her husband as family support here. They took good care of me, I cannot complain.  Then the second time I moved up I lived alone and had no problems but getting used to the difference of people and their character and demeanor is what got to me. I could not understand how people could be so cold without knowing me.  My friends know me as a cheerful, talkative and very outspoken person that I could not understand why some people I encountered were just plain rude.  I started to think maybe it had to do with their upbringing, or maybe it was me.  I literally was so pensive about this that I decided to take control of the situation. I just let me be me. If they did not like me it was their problem not mine. So, I got passed that year.

But, now I find myself in a rather different situation.  Lately Lola, my car, has been giving me problems. She had a sensor that needed to be replaced and then she was good for a while until yesterday. As I was driving home, she warned me again that she may be sick. So, I took her in to the doctor, car repair shop, and they are trying to figure out what is wrong. That is gonna cost me some good earned money! I think that is the most depressing part for me. I feel like I am sacrificing my MAC make-up and Gianni Bini heels, for car repairs....but I chose Lola because she take me everywhere and without her, I am lonely. I think that is why I feel so sad.  I am used to being with her, enjoying our random drives to meet with friends or to take a scenic route home. I think I am missing her and being away from her is what is killing me. I know I may sound crazy but I love my car. Its just a little Chrysler PT Cruiser but she does the job for me.

Other than Lola, I miss my parents. I am not even sure if it is them that I miss or the fact that I don't got anyone to rely on here. I mean I do got friends but they got their lives to worry about.  The last thing I would want to do is inconvenience anyone. When it comes to my stuff, I am used to taking control of the situation because if anything goes wrong I am the only one to blame.  But then again, it always is good to have friends I can count on.  Iris and Maribel, you girls were always their for me when I needed a ride to the car shop or anywhere back home in good ole Edinburg Texas. You guys didn't ask any questions, you just wanted to help me out in anyway till I got what I needed.   For that I thank you, I am blessed that God has put you two in my life. I also acknowledge that I can be a pain in the ass but you guys love me and see beyond that.  That is what makes you guys even more awesome!

Now, I am at work working on legislation and hoping to get through the rest of the day.

Tootles.

Morning Sunshines

Woke up this morning....not necessarily rested because my back was killing me. I felt like I was not gonna be able to get out of my bed.

Last night, I enjoyed some quality time at DK Sushi Bar. I tasted the Volcano and Jalapeno roll! Oh my, SO delicious.  Plus, I felt like I was not eating to much, I mean sushi is healthy right?

This is the VOLCANO ROLL :)

JALAPENO ROLL - "YUM-O"

This was too pretty of pic not to post

So, got home and head to bed early. I felt super exhausted for some reason. I think I may have to do a walk every morning and stretch my back more.  But, this morning I felt good. I have taken a different route to work that beats the traffic and I enjoy the scenery.

I get to work, start reading up on news on my media outlets till I got distracted by a UT gunmen breaking news on twitter and LIVE News by KEYE.  I felt so worried for Felicia an intern in the office. I felt like crying for some reason. I felt relieved when she messaged me that she was okay. Thank goodness.

I have to say the response by UT-PD, APD, DPS was amazing. They are still doing some sweeping on campus but for now I have been alerted by our capitol DPS that UT is on lock down and we should avoid travel near the area.

My day will be filled with news updates from back home, Austin and researching legislation. Tonight, I should start writing my chapter three and I will be officially done!

Till next time. Tootles.

I feel like I got the Early Bird special!

Good morning!  I woke up today like I had over slept. I said my morning prayer "God grant me the serenity to accept the things I can not change, courage to change the things I can and wisdom to know the difference." This prayer helps me get through the morning and through the rest of the day.

My car had broken down and I was not quite sure how I was gonna get it fixed when miraculously the car turned on Sunday evening.  I was relieved because now I can drive it to a shop.  I got all dressed and ready for work with enough time to stop and get the car checked. I was referred to Leonard's Muffler Shop on South First and St. Elmo! They really put a smile on my face. All my anxieties and worries were gone! I could not help it but to do a review on it.  Aside from waiting, when waiting at shops can be so boring and manly, well let me tell you. They had this really nice coffee machine that I gladly entertained myself with! Plus they had really good creamers.

Alright, I may sound like such a girl but lets just say I am a girl who knows a good deal when she gets one. Being away from home and my personal mechanic I found a shop that will def take care of me. I mean, a single woman that is independent, I feel like I found heaven. But, I think if I had a man this situation would have been less stressful...I think.

Anyhow, I am working on research in the office. I feel like it may be a long day but I sure hope it goes by fast. I am getting into the grove of things and I really want to meet new friends. So, this afternoon I am hitting up a sushi karaoke place with my girlfriend Sabrina and friends. I was told it gets fun there so I am looking forward to it.

Alright, till the next time. Tootles.

This Game Called Life Is So Serious

Waking up early everyday is becoming a pattern for me. Granted, I am used to waking up thirty minutes before I actually have to head out of the house. But, now I am trying to change that pattern. Lately my alarm has been set at 5:30am and I tend to get out of bed by 7:15am. Reading that sentence makes me want to be a wee bit more responsible.  Also, I am trying to go to bed early so that I don't have such a problem when I wake up.  Alright, like I was saying, I woke up and departed to Jack Allen's Kitchen with my friend Sabrina. I am so glad she invited me because I had been neglecting myself of any social interaction.  If you know me, that is so not normal for me. So Sabrina picked me and we had a nice chat on the way. It feels so heart warming when I can hang out with good friends and especially those who come from the same town as I do, well the Rio Grande Valley.

Brunch at Jack Allen's Kitchen was too good to be true. I mean I arrived starving! Well, not literally.  I enjoyed good company and meeting someone new, Kelly. She is the Executive Manager for Yelp.com. Lets just say I was really impressed and since cooking and eating food is my other hobby other than keeping up with politics, I decided to get more involved about Yelp.com...I have officially done my first review. That was so fun and interesting.

I am not sure if I have mentioned this but I now reside in Austin Texas. I have been here for two weeks now and lets just say I need to make some improvements in my life. I need to create a better circle of friends, for example, surround myself around those who enjoy talking politics and social issues and especially with those who enjoy dancing and having random fun adventures.  My goal is to be spontaneous and spend the least amount of money possible...I think I can do this.

The whole reason for my relocation was my job promotion. I got promoted to Capitol Chief of Staff for State Representative Aaron Pena, District 40 of the Texas House of Representatives.  I must say that even though I am going on 7 years with him, this new transition has me on my toes. I always strive to be the best and I feel like I am at the point where I can apply everything I have learned through my education, life and institutional experience to make a difference.  I may look young but rest assured I mean business.

So, as I reflect on the past two weeks, all I know is that I am a cheerful person blessed to have good friends that understand me and help me.  It has been a little rocky for me but I am behind the wheel of my life. I am taking charge and like my big brother says, never surrender.

Getting Back into the Grove of Things

Yesterday I had a fantastic day!  I mean, I had my coffee...I worked...and then I had some good company for a night out of randomness.  I must say I enjoy things when they are spare of the moment...but if they are weddings or something more special then yeah that deserves a lot of attention.

I originally had planned to attend the Texas Democratic Party State Convention but in the end I had to pass. I wanted to do some many things but I just couldn't.  I really don't like to hear no or say no but I had to say no to myself.  On a good note, I attended the first Drainage Advisory Committee meeting at the ITT building this morning. It ran a little after one but its all good. I learned a lot by all those who were present but more importantly I realized that I had to do a lot more reading.

I have been keeping a peaceful mind lately and believe it or not it has helped me stay focused. Having some Mari-time other than work is always good for the soul. Lets just say I am content and really looking forward to my new life adventures and new beginnings.

Alright friends as for now I got no new updates other than that I gotta go run today and put in some exercises!


Peace and Love, MDL

Its Been A While

Alright so its been about three months since I last posted something. I had a lot on my plate and I actually still do.  But, I realized if I am gonna make this blog relationship work I gotta work at it.  So here I am.

I got good news. I have finished my masters coursework! Finally :) Now I gotta finish up my thesis that is due before the end of this month so that I may graduate for sure in August.

Aside from that I have been dealt with a pretty ugly stack of cards.  I cannot trust men...but after watching "When in Rome" with my lovely cousins and Moses, I have some hope. I guess I gotta find a man that I love more than work. I think that is when I will be serious and committed to someone other than myself. But for now, I am single as a bee.

Also, I am documenting my health plan once again. A year has passed since I last started and I am getting back into the grove of things. Going to the gym and watching my meals have made more happy than I already am.

I am excited about moving back to Austin in September. I am determined to keep doing good and hopefully landing an awesome job...I mean a second job. I just got too much time on my hands.  I am so determined to get my career on its feet and running. My goal of making a minimum of $100k is in reach. My estimate is within the next two years, hopefully by the time I am 30....I am calling that "Mari's Peak." At that point I will and should be ready for anything that comes my way.

Alright, this ten minute break has done me good and now I got 50 minutes for lunch.

Have a Super Duper Awesome Day Everyone!

Peace and Love, MDL

Pink Braces Do Make a Statement---Mari statement that is.

I have been MIA for the past month and a half.  I must say I have been a little overwhelmed with school and family responsibilities.  But, through trust in the Lord I have surpassed an obstacle in my life. 

This past month I got a denial letter to the White House Fellow Program.  It really didn't hit me hard at first but as the day came to the end I started feeling a sense of failure. Yes, FAILURE, started bringing me down.  I prayed that I would be considered since I had a lot of support and was considered to apply.  I was really hurt.  I was even tempted to write to the program but I had to accept that it was just not meant to be. There is another plan out there for me. I am still wondering what is out there for me.

I have friends that kept reassuring me there was nothing wrong with me but they sure did make a bad decision not picking me.  That really made me feel happy.  Other than that, I kept moving forward.

Since my boss got an appointment to chair a select committee I knew that information was going to be key.  I have been trying to keep up with all there is to know about emergency preparedness and then Lord and behold the issure of border security and spillover is a state and national issue. 

I live in deep South Texas. I love it here. Its small. No heavy rush hour, but we do have problems with drug smuggling and violence.  Am I scared? Not really...I have lived here all my life. Outsiders reading on the area...yeah they are probably afraid but why if they don't live here. Do we have a problem? Yes we do. But what will the government do to protect the safety of the people in the are while not impacting the commerce these border cities recieve due in part to trade with Mexico?  I think about this all the time. I wake up and when I drive to work, I see a beautiful new day each day.  This topic is of great interest to me I just gotta keep up with it.

Another topic of interest is Redistricting.  It is here in Texas.  I just attended an NCSL Redistricting Law Conference for the weekend.  It was so much information but I feel like I am gonna get this. 

Aside from work I have had the pleasure of spending time with my great friend Genevee. She opens her home to me when I have to come to the Austin area for work.  We had a good day at Zilker park playing volleyball and a nice dinner afterwards. 

I also, miss my Chloe. I have not been apart from her for this long so I just hope I am greeted with lots of love when I get back.

Aside from my stay here, I have noticed that people like my braces. I believe this is funny. So funny that its time for them to be removed next month.  I just hope they like my smile after they are removed.

Peace and Love.

If at first you don't succeed try, try again!

On Wednesday and Thursday I attended two Tech Prep events for work. On Wednesday night I made a drive out to TSTC Cultural Arts Center in Harlingen, Texas. It's about a 40 minute drive from Edcouch. I arrived and was well greeted. I must say I had never been welcomed in that fashion before at a district event. Shortly after my sign in I bumped into some Veterans that I had met last year. But, new to my networking list is Ron Tupper. He is a great man. He actually accompanied me to my table and made small talk with me. He is also a funny man. Well, shortly after the reception began when they were getting to announce the guest speaker I was like who is Tony Hill? Well, if I was a super duper Cowboys fan like my very good friend Iris I would have known better.

He spoke about the importance of trying hard to achieve success, because without trying you will not experience it. He talked a little more about the importance of an education and how much he loves his kids. As I snuck out of the reception, I bumped into Tony as he was leaving as well. We had a nice conversation as we walked to the parking lot. I had told him that I appreciated his little speech and that was exactly what I needed to hear at the perfect time. After we talked a little further he said I sounded like a well grounded women and that men can see "quality." When he asked if I had a boyfriend, I was rather shy to answer but I had to say no. He was even surprised as I was. He told me that the day will come when a man will see all the quality in me and at that point he will grab on to me and lever let go. I think he hit it right on the nail. Hearing him say that was like hearing my father say that to me, which probably would never happen because my dad is not a "mushy mushy" man as he would call it. But Tony's sincerety made me appreciate him as a person. I am sure glad we were able to cross paths.

I drove home with a smile on my face like you not imagine. I let the course of love in my life in the hands of the most important being in my life, Jesus my Lord and Savior. The next day, I prepared for the luncheon which was just as great as the reception. I got an autograph for Iris and we shared one last picture moment before he departed back home.

You will hear me occasionally talk about love, maybe men, my family, and work. I just got to learn to stop talking about work but it's just that there is never a dull moment.

Alright, I can't seem to have anything else to share but I am supposed to go on a "movie date" tonight and see Valentine's Day. I sure hope he doesn't cancel.

Peace and Love!