I was four years old when I took on my first swimming lesson. My parents said I was an adventurous kid with no fear. I’d like to say that, deep down, I am still that courageous kid. I’ve decided to take the plunge once again, in a different way — by starting my first personal blog, “Queen Bee Latina.” It is a bit scary, but I figure I have nothing to loose.
My papa described the day I decided to “fly” off the the highest dive at the community pool. I remember that day starkly. I shivered as the cold water trickled down my legs. The other kids trembled in fear, but me…? I climbed up that cold metal ladder with a sense of purpose. This scrawny kid was going to take the dive and make my parents proud. I peeked over the diving board and looked down into the clear water below. It was high and intimidating, but I went for it…. Splat! The belly flop hurt a bit but I managed to dog paddle to safety.
Since that day, mi madre knew I would be ready to take on the world. That I –Angela Saldaña – had a “special purpose” in life (*chuckles to self*). At the time, I didn’t know what it meant exactly, and to this day I am still trying to figure out what that purpose is.
My purpose for this new blog?
Hopefully to inspire others to take the high dive and live their lives to the fullest too!
Photography, art, culture, and storytelling make my heart skip a beat.
I love food, travel, movies, fashion, adventure, and I drag my kiddos around with me everywhere to explore their passions as well.
I am a freelance writer, marketing specialist, mom, chauffeur, and momager to an aspiring actress. Yeah – I know it’s a lot of hats, but I enjoy wearing them!
Photo credit to Momfluential
Photo credit to Momfluential.net
You may have seen me on PBS, or in the OC Register giving mama advice, or on the red carpet as a correspondent for Momfluential.net at the Catalina Film Festival. I also co-directed/co-produced and appeared on the Listen To Your Mother Show. Or perhaps you have seen me on BuzzFeed giving my teenage daughter a makeover. For three years, I contributed a little flavor to Momfluential.net as Latinafluential.
I try my best to maintain balance in my life. I have an amazing support system. My faith, my beautiful familia, and amazing friends help me through it all. I love my chaotic life and wouldn’t change a thing…Ok, maybe I can do without the chauffeur gig.
I am a proud Latina, the youngest of six. My immigrant parents have taught me great work ethic and to be proud of my rich Mexican heritage. I intend to instill these same values in my children.
I have four children: Elisha (24), Victoria (20), Clarissa (16) and Andrew (9). These blessings are my life and heartbeat. Elisha, my eldest, was born with special needs and a life expectancy of age seven. She has taught our family about love, patience, and compassion. I encourage my children to follow their dreams. As a family we spend a lot of time in the arts. We paint on canvas, explore photography, and spend hours upon hours in museums and theaters. My life is anything but ordinary, and these kids keep me on my toes.
I am definitely stepping out of my comfort zone by doing this. But I’m doing so as a lead-by-example deal. I want my children to know that they have a voice and should never be afraid to use it. So here I go…
Shoes…. Where will you take me today?
I hope you will follow us buzzing around town!
Queen Bee Latina
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