Her Deep Thoughts (sm)

Wordless Wednesday: The Beaten Path

2012-01-31T23:04:00.000-05:00

Change: Uncomfortable, yet necessary

2012-01-31T12:51:00.001-05:00

I don't know what it is but I feel that this year holds some spectacular energy and that it really is going to be amazing. I'm just not tapping into that energy right now.

Just a few weeks into the year, and I've already started to go through some major changes in my life. I gotta be honest - It's uncomfortable. Like a trip to the gynecologist is uncomfortable. Like the dentist is uncomfortable. Bearable, necessary, yet "when is this part gonna be over" uncomfortable.

I'm not usually the type to waver in a decision, but I'm just taking my time to figure out whether or not to move to Los Angeles. I've put a pin in it because emotionally I feel like I've gone through the ringer. And as much as I keep trying to remind myself that I'm a FIREWORK, I kinda just want to be in my bed this very minute.

Why am I feeling this way? I'm just thinking about how my much anticipated trip to L.A. went from total excitement to wanting to get on the next flight home.

My trip didn't start as planned* but I put on my SuperMujer cape and said, "I will go it alone!" [insert resounding superhero voice here.]

Then here's what happened: outside of the awesome people I spent time with (I am thankful for you!), my experience was colored by fear and loneliness when I didn't have those awesome people around me. Fear and loneliness are the world's worst travel companions.

As a result, I didn't give the place a real chance. I didn't allow myself to see it because my eyes were clouded by Fear and Loneliness, who had their meaty hands covering my eyes. I haven't given up on it though- that's why I need to go back to California at least one more time before I make my final decision. I also need a real vacation, but that's another post.

I'm trying to remind myself that I went out to L.A. alone and that in and of itself was courageous. Like, pound my chest courageous. Like I'm King of the friggin' jungle courageous. And I need to keep telling myself that, over and over, acknowledging the big step I took.

It was also brave to allow myself to communicate my plans and let others guide me and connect me with new people. I allowed myself to rely on others for advice, to meet up with me, etc. I allowed myself to be helped. Another huge accomplishment for someone like me.

This trip let me know that I CAN do it. And I can do it alone. There's no doubt about that. The only question is, do I want to? [Insert pin here.] The reality is, I will have times when I'm not busy with work and I will want to turn to my family and friends. And I don't want Fear and Loneliness chillin' in my L.A. apartment during those times. So this little pin is just there to help me sort out my feelings, and to give those asses the boot.

While I manage my discomfort with all this change, I remind myself (lots of self talk) that this is how we grow and become the people we are meant to become. This is necessary. This is how we take care of ourselves, by going through uncomfortable changes that will nurture the seeds in us that are ready to flourish.

*Sorayu & Che couldn't make it because of her work schedule, the actors who had started to plan this trip with me flakedr; Buttercup is recording her album; and I didn't bring my mother for fear she would see a bad neighborhood and panic, etc.

LushLunes: Dream Big. Dream Fierce.

2012-01-30T09:00:00.000-05:00

The words of Viola Davis at the SAG Awards moved me to tears: "Dream Big. Dream Fierce." To that all I can say is YES!!!!

Source: Uploaded by user via Lisann on Pinterest

Today's mission simply requires reflection on one important concept: What is your biggest dream? From the simple goal of allowing yourself the permission to be happy, to the grandiose (yet attainable) concept of winning an award for your works, embrace whatever that dream is and meditate on it. Then share it with the world.

Own it. Live it. Have a LushLunes my deep thinkers.

Celebrate The Movies: The Oscars!

2012-01-26T08:00:00.000-05:00

I spent my life growing up watching movies every weekend with my family. It was an event... no one spoke or interrupted. Or at least that's how I remember it. I was so engrossed in the films that long after they were over I'd repeat the lines to myself, recreating the magic... it's no wonder I gravitated toward acting.

I love film! It can be so powerful in its' ability to move you, make you laugh, smile, and cry...sometimes in the same hour. The stories on screen stir the imagination and the soul ...which is truly a remarkable feat especially for those who have a difficult time suspending disbelief (like Che!).

My photo of "The Film Director ", a sculpture by Andrew Rogers

I am thrilled for the actors and films that have been nominated this year! You can read more about them in this Back Stage article: "'Hugo' and 'The Artist' Lead With Most Oscar Nominations.

Of the movies nominated for Best Picture, I've only seen "The Artist," "The Help" and "The Tree of Life." I must admit I really enjoyed them. I can't wait to see "Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close," "Hugo" and "Midnight in Paris." In the past I have gone to the AMC Best Picture Showcase to get all caught up, but I might skip it this year because it's quite the marathon. I sometimes have marathons at home... which is much better than sitting in a theater in a little tiny seat, unable to curl up into a ball. But I digress...

I am dying to watch "My Week with Marilyn" (Michelle Williams got a nod) since Buttercup and I are HUGE Mariyn fans. And Viola Davis truly deserves her nomination in "The Help" as does Rooney Mara in "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo," (a film I enjoyed despite having loved the original). I admire actors who truly pour themselves into their roles portraying magnificent characters and bringing stories to life! That's what it's all about. It's something I aspire to do as well.

The world of movies... Oh how I love you! I can't wait to see which film will take home an Oscar this year!!! I'm looking forward to the 84th Annual Academy Awards on Sunday, February 26, 2012. Who do you think will take home an Oscar?

Wordless Wednesday: Apothecary of Chocolate Goodness

2012-01-25T00:00:00.000-05:00

a photo from my dinner at Max Brenner's.

The Main Ingredient is: LOVE

2012-01-24T08:00:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago my mom was sick and I really didn't know what to do in terms of food. The kitchen and I are no strangers but we're not like best friends or anything.

I have to be in the mood to cook. Music playing, dancing about with the right ingredients, unrestrained to work my magic... that's the way uh-huh, uh-huh, I like it. There is also this thing called "time." I don't have a lot of it to devote to cooking, but that week, boy oh boy was I quite the little chef.

Ok calling myself a "chef" is stretching it, but I did good by my sick-y mom. Since the season calls for soup, I wanted to share one of two quickie soup recipes that I tried, and loved, that were really manageable for this time-challenged non-chef.

The catch - you need a blender!! And you know I got my blender.

Pea Soup

The soup was quite yummy. The only difference is that I added garlic (because I love garlic) and I skipped the yogurt. It was very good and my mom totally loved it. Why? Besides being a good recipe, I poured my heart into it. Whether you're a novice or a culinary genius, the energy you put into the food really makes a difference.

"Peas" enjoy your soup!! (LOL cheesy incorrect spelling intended!)

P.S.Once I find the two Carrot Ginger Soup recipes that I combined I will share that with you too!!!

LushLunes: Here Comes the Grooming

2012-01-22T22:16:00.000-05:00

I used to say, " if my job were to be hot, then I'd be awesome at it," meaning if I had all the time in the world to prep, primp, and pump iron like celebs do, then I wouldn't roll out of bed, take a 10 minute shower, and look like a wet chihuahua in the morning.

picture of my Glamour Magazine, February 2012 issue, p. 64.

But looking our best IS our job. Why? Because We've got to look our best in order to feel our best.

Here's where your mission comes in:

For Lunes I want you to look your best. Get in the shower, scrub yourself down, and lotion up from head to toe. Plan out your outfit and when you dress, walk out like it's your job to look that good. Like you matter. Because you do.

Laura Mercier Crème Brûlée Trio from my baño

There's no better way to start the week than by feeling 100% hot!!! Grooming should be done mindfully, to show ourselves that we care... we should make it a real ritual, taking the time to appreciate all that we are.

Have a fresh-to-death Lush Lunes my deep thinkers!

Coast to Coast: The Courage to Change

2012-01-20T14:42:00.001-05:00

Travel is all about the experience. I'm back from Los Angeles, a trip I took solita, and I learned a lot. The most important thing I learned is that God totally has my back. I knew this, of course, with the whole Universe-working-in-our favor talk, but sometimes it's good to have the reminder.

While in Los Angeles, I was surrounded by people that were totally uplifting and supportive, and for that I am grateful. The following post is sort of a play by play, so if you hang on 'til the end, you might get the gist of what I've been teasing you with over the past few months.

While on the other Coast, I met with a lot of people who really made the experience worthwhile.

I had a fabulous dinner with my L.A. Blogueras in Los Feliz - women I initially met through twitter and bonded with at my first BlogHer several years ago (Anna, Rachel & Monique). They listened to me, and gave me sage advice on a West Coast life.

Monique graciously took me to two L'Oreal Paris events celebrating their 40th Anniversary during the weekend of the Golden Globes where I got pampered, got swag, got to ignore celebrities, and got to wear a brand new dress I picked up at Nordstrom Rack.

Rachel took me to see one of my favorite things - Flamenco! - and let me go on and on about my fears. In her strong maternal way, she straight up told me that I was over-thinking everything and that I needed to ease up on myself. Advice I'm still taking in bit by bit every time I get too heady.

Sorayu introduced me to her friend, a kindred spirit (Lawyer / Actor) who sat with me for lunch at The Grove, reminding me that I was in Los Angeles for a reason. Yes, indeed. And that in the end it's all going to be ok, no matter what.

My friend Mas introduced me to a New Yorker living in Los Angeles, who in turn invited me to dinner with a few of her closest friends, who just happen to ROCK. Before I arrived at the dinner I was honestly itching to go back to New York, but I had a very inspired talk with one of her cohorts who motivated me to push forward and embrace the changes I had set into motion. Once again reminding me that I was there for a reason, meeting them for a reason, feeling really understood and in my element among them.

As I was sitting there sort-of awkwardly embracing change, my eyes welling up with tears during my caterpillar-butterfly process, walking on the streets alone (because no one walks in L.A.!) I got a phone call from a producer I've been working with on a webseries, letting me know that the company wants to meet with me to get me involved with a film they're making. Yay to that!

Doing work I love on whatever Coast is welcome, it's just more comfortable to do it when I'm home, among family and friends. But this experience taught me that I am not alone on this journey. Because even on the other coast, I have people who support me and my dreams - who are looking out for me - and for that I feel totally blessed.

All of this to say (without actually saying it) I'm making a move in my life. I'm doing my best to make an informed decision about a life on the West Coast. I'm teetering, I'm scared, and I'm thinking it through. Regardless of the Coast I live on, I am diving deeper into acting and writing...it's happening. "The winds of change are blowing wild and free," but no one promised it would be easy.

This experience was a bit of a looking-glass, 1) showing me that I am more courageous than I could have ever imagined; 2) allowing me to reflect on my life and seeing that I have grown as a person, an artist, a woman and 3) showing me that I am on a journey that will allow me to spread my wings.

I just have to let go of the fear, and fly.

(not so) Wordless Wendesday: The Winds of Change

2012-01-18T00:00:00.000-05:00

Jet-setting: Get Your Tube Socks

2012-01-13T12:30:00.000-05:00

Change is in the air my friends... can you feel it? Daring to try new things is exciting and scary and slide-across-your-living-room-in-socks-crazy! 2012 is exploding with this kind of energy, and I'm so grateful for it.

Well I've got my white tube socks on and am ready to slide across my living room floor, cuz this New Yorker is taking a wessside vacation.

I'm heading to L.A. to get a feel for the City, the people, and the energy. It's an exploratory trip!!! But really, aren't all trips exploratory? Indeed they are my friends... indeed they are.

I really loved San Diego when I was there six months ago and I hope L.A. will be just as kind to me. Let's also hope it's warm enough for a swim when I get there because NYC is supposed to be COLD this weekend. I certainly won't miss that!!!!!

After I'm done traveling and recover from said travel, I will be sure to tell you all about it. I hope y'all will miss this deep thinker!

Tres Leches Cake (for the Baking Challenged)

2012-01-12T01:37:00.001-05:00

Che has been talking about tres leches cake for over a week. He loves it, my mom loves it... but me? Eh, not so much.

After three failed attempts at trying to purchase tres leches, it was serendipitous that I stumbled across a recipe on the Tiki Tiki.

I'm not a baker, nor am I a chef, so this was an experiment. Well, I followed the recipe and made the most delicious tres leches cake EVERRR!

My tres leches cake, with cool whip on top & blueberries...mostly devoured.

I actually enjoyed it, not just because it was AMAZING, but because my picky Puerto Rican family (the baker Buttercup, and Chef's Bubbles & Che) were like fiends eating it all up.

Culinary artists may shun the quick & easy not-from-scratch directions, but this is not for them (though it tastes just as good as from scratch!). If you don't mind baking from a box & opening some cans - especially if you're kitchen challenged - this is a recipe I think you should try (and the results of which you will devour). Get the recipe HERE!

Thanks to Laura for the recipe and to Carrie! Please head over to the Tiki Tiki blog and show their kick-ass contributor Laura some love on her easy Tres Leches!

Wordless Wednesday: Latte With A Lesson

2012-01-11T00:00:00.000-05:00

Taken this weekend at Max Brenner's

Forget Skinny: Be Stronger

2012-01-10T08:00:00.000-05:00

Nothing feels better than completing a kick-ass work out.

I notice that when I don't work out for an extended period of time, my body and my mental state really suffers. Why? Because I feel lethargic, my mind gets bogged down with thoughts, and caffeine just doesn't compare to endorphins.

Source: itstheskinny.tumblr.com via Lisann on Pinterest

If you've been reading here a long time, you know yoga and the Nike Training Club are part of my routine ( I mix it up with running and swimming, but not during the winter months in NYC).

It's not about being skinny... no. I'm petite, but I'm curvy and I love my curves. My focus is on being stronger, leaner, and feeling good. In this respect the NTC app has been pretty amazing.

It's not for those who are clueless about the importance of proper form or who carelessly flail-about while watching instructional videos. No. Way. But if you are somewhat informed in fitness, then you can use this app to your advantage - as your gym-to-go. (And it is muscle-bound boyfriend-approved. Che shows the app respect, and that says a lot!)

It does take a while to get started. Why? You will be watching each portion of the work out routine to see how to properly perform it, practice it to see if you've got it right, and then finally work through the routine you've selected all while listening to the music on your itunes and the Nike chick saying "you can do it!."

But once you've started the initial steps of going through a new routine and learning what "froggers" is, for example, then you will complete each routine during the time alotted. And you will SWEAT. Like that really drippy man-sweat. It's not cute.

I truly feel like a rock star each time I finish a 30-45 minute session. After a week I felt stronger, and at the end of the month my body was tighter and leaner. Going back to a prior routine that once exhausted me was easy as pie.

My body has certainly changed and I love what I see. Having a work out I like and that I don't get bored with is a real find.

What's your go-to work out routine?

LushLunes: First, Love Yourself

2012-01-09T08:00:00.000-05:00

New Years call for new beginnings, and what a fresh way to start than by kicking off your Monday with LushLunes?

Today I want you to think about how you show yourself love - how is your inner self talk? How often do you allow yourself to be put first? Do you allow yourself to wind down and how often? These are some things to consider...and in a guilt-free way.

I think about this a lot when I vanish my negative thoughts or feel down. I correct any actions that may indicate I'm not embracing who I am, flaws and all. And then I implement ways to treat myself better.

For example, every time I meditate or work out, I consider that one of the ways that I show myself some love. Every time I look in the mirror and I start to criticize, I stop and remind myself that I am wonderful just the way I am. These are small ways, but sure ways to transform the way that you look at yourself and feel about yourself.

So all of this is simply to say that your mission today is just to get the ball rolling on how you LOVE YOU.

I found this broadcast from the Chopra Center to be really helpful, and if you want to let it play in the background for an hour while you clean or cook or type away on the computer, it may be a good first step, for however long you listen.

"... truly loving ourselves for who we authentically are, both the light and the dark – is actually the surest way of cultivating and communicating the love within us with others." - from Healing Wisdom: Choose Love

Have a great LushLunes my deep thinkers!!!

Intentions into Action: 2012

2012-01-04T10:24:00.001-05:00

Where have I been? It's 2012 and I haven't posted yet. But this is a good thing!

Like my fellow Latinas (and women in general) I tend to juggle too many projects, obligations and I take on too much responsibility for others.

Source: marian16rox.tumblr.com via Lisann on Pinterest

I've decided that this year I must prioritize my passions. And the business of acting is first.

That doesn't mean I'm abandoning my deep thinkers, my partner, family friends, or my volunteerism. Never! I am loyal, after all. It just means I'm not going to stress if I slow down occasionally. And neither should you!

I love my LushLunes missions and the catharsis that is HerDeepThoughts; I value my down time and my time bonding; I enjoy my work with Latism; and I love that I am a dream chaser and a doer.

As I sat on the subway, I really felt thankful that God has allowed me the luxury and courage to actively pursue my goals. I wish that for my deep thinkers as well.

So stay focused, take the time to slow down when you need to, and just remember that 2012 is going to ROCK!!! Just you wait and see.

Wordless Wednesday: A Mini Serenade

2012-01-04T10:16:00.001-05:00

Best Wishes, From Her Deep Thoughts

2011-12-31T08:00:00.000-05:00

Meditation In Motion: Nurturing Your Body & Mind

2011-12-30T11:15:00.001-05:00

You all know how much I love yoga (and the Nike Training App). These have been my go-to exercises without joining a gym over the past year.

What I love most about yoga (and the killer body weight training app) is that during these times my mind is calm. I am focused on my breathing and there are no outside thoughts. The mantra becomes, "you can do it" and then I do this miraculous thing and accomplish what I set out to accomplish. Madness, I know!

Exercise (whether its yoga, running, or swimming,) is the quickest way to achieving positive self fulfilling prophecies, kicking up those endorphins, and feeling like a rock star. And you can do it all again the very next day!

Besides, it's good for you. Shocker! Not just for your body, but for your mind. What we learn during exercise - attention to form, focus, and our breath - can be applied to everything we do.

I have to remind myself that this meditation in motion is applicable to my daily life routine. Walking to the train, driving to my next destination, grocery shopping, work, it all can be filled with positive focused thoughts.

I apply this to my acting (being in the moment) but sometimes with the madness of ending a New Year, my mind is racing, a headache ensues, I grab cup after cup of coffee, and I forget to be nice to me.

It's time to remember to calm our internal dialogue and to give our body (and our mind) the nourishment it deserves.

Wordless Wednesday: Cheers to 2012!

2011-12-28T00:00:00.000-05:00

My annual Coquito with coconut shavings

Spreading Our Wings

2011-12-27T08:00:00.000-05:00

All year long we've talked about our minds, our bodies and our emotions. These topics have encompassed swagger, meditation, exercise, rewarding our successes, intention setting (jet setting), mindfulness in our actions and those around us influencing our world.

And it is likely we will discuss these subjects again as they are a part of our everyday existence and especially come into play while we set our resolutions into place.

Ever since I was thirteen, I have made resolutions in the form of a vision board. At the end of the year I look at it and congratulate myself on my accomplishments.

I also take note of my intentions that are still unfolding and remind myself not to give up. I remember that sign on the subway, the words of encouragement from a stranger, and the little moments where the Universe sends me a rainbow.

Earlier this year I made a BIG decision (I know keep teasing you with this) for 2012 that in my heart I know is the right path, though it scares me. But fear of the unknown is good! It allows us to embrace change and to get out of our comfort zones. Because at some point we must allow ourselves to spread our wings.

As we gear up for 2012, I want to remind myself and you my deep thinkers that life is not linear and you can create what you want out of this world with your talents.

When you allow your courage to outweigh your fear, you fly.

Wordless Wednesday: From Christmas Past

2011-12-21T00:00:00.000-05:00

LushLunes: The Moments

2011-12-19T08:00:00.000-05:00

It's LushLunes and there's so much going on for the Holidays! I celebrated my birthday yesterday and really enjoyed myself during this crazily wonderful time of year.

Che gave me a fun birthday weekend (I'm not the birthday weekend type, celebrating several days in a row, but I let myself be pampered)... I even opened presents at midnight!

opening Birthday presents!

Then on the big day, I spent the majority of the day cleaning my place while listening to merengue, preparing for the intimate party that evening. On the actual evening of my birthday I had a great get together with family and friends, enjoying every moment. I just felt so grateful to be at this point in my life, surrounded by incredible people. That's the lesson here, and of course your mission.

With Noche Buena coming up, Christmas, and New Years... family and friends come together with food, gifts, dancing... and sometimes it can feel chaotic. And it's not supposed to be.

Today is the day to give yourself at least 5 minutes of a breather. Give yourself at least five minutes to recount how thankful you are for just being! And remember to do this time and again over the next two weeks if it tends to feel overwhelming.

Remember that it's about enjoying the moments. Embracing the present and not worrying too much about tomorrow.

This will be the last LushLunes for 2011 so make it count my deep thinkers!!! Have a wonderful Holiday and a kick-ass start to 2012!!!!

Wordless Wednesday: A Toy Soldier

2011-12-14T07:30:00.002-05:00

Party For A Good Cause

2011-12-14T00:29:00.001-05:00

If you're in New York and want to experience the hip and trendy Williamsburg vibe (for a good cause) I hope you can attend the LATISM sponsored Pa’L Pueblo” Charity Holiday Drive.

"The event is a community effort to change the way these children experience the holiday... In addition to distributing toys, the event will feature “Parranda” style music...and community."

WHEN & WHERE?

Friday, December 16, 2011 from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM (ET) at the EvilOlivE Bar, in Williamsburg, Brooklyn ...Make sure to RSVP!

CAN ONLY ATTEND IN SPIRIT?

Donate online or Help spread the word! You can post or tweet:

You're invited to the ”Pa’L Pueblo” Charity Holiday Drive in NYC on 12/16/11! http://ow.ly/1C0ogH #LatISM

It's the last LATISM party of the year! So come spread love and joy this Holiday season!

Revamp Your UnderThings

2011-12-08T15:49:00.000-05:00

When it comes to the ladies, we've talked a bit about jeans. I've preached about avoiding muffin tops and getting the right fit for your body type. But I left out an important piece of advice: what you wear underneath counts too!

Clothes that fit well bring out your confidence, and the same holds true for underwear. So what kind are you wearing?

Just hanging out with Candice

I'm a fan of seamless yet breathable underwear. You never want lines and bulges so you've got to wear what fits. Plus you want to feel like a W-O-M-A-N ...so no old-lady pantaletas here (regardless of your age).

Personally, when making this type of purchase I go one size up so that the garment sits on me, instead of squeezing me. This way my underwear is a mystery and is not making a statement with my outfit. I shop at either Victorias Secret, Maidenform or Macy's.

My most recent finds were at Victoria's Secret where I fell in love with two types of underwear that are incredibly comfortable and seamless:

The Lacie Thong

Dream Angels Lace Boyshort

They are both comfortable, there won't be any lines in your clothing,and they've got the right amount of cotton where it's needed...all while while remaining cute and sexy.

Now that you've got some direction, remember that it's the season of giving: gift yourself some new undergarments! As you revamp your wardrobe, you revamp your swagger.

HAPPY SHOPPING!

(footnote: Now here's where I get all grandma - even though my underwear is seamless, I always wear a slip when wearing dresses or skirts. It's the security that lines won't show. Nor will your alma.)