Mastering the Art of Traveling with a Baby: From Car Rides to Cruises

The specter of active shootings haunts our every gathering, casting a shadow over places once considered sanctuaries of joy and community. As we unpack the grim reality of this violence, we don't just recount statistics or policies; we share the raw emotions and personal reflections that come with the turbulent aftermath of a recent shooting near the Super Bowl celebrations. Our conversation delves into how these tragedies chip away at our collective sense of security, the contentious debates they ignite about gun ownership, and the sobering necessity for active shooter training in today's workplaces. Join us for a heartfelt discussion on an issue that's as complex as it is critical, where empathy and responsible gun ownership are keys to forging a safer tomorrow.

As parents, as friends, as members of our communities, the rise in mass shootings touches us all, challenging our understanding of safety and responsibility. We take a close look at the unsettling normalization of violence and draw comparisons with different regions, like Puerto Rico's drug-related and interpersonal crimes versus the U.S.'s mass shootings. The chapter also touches on our personal experiences with active shooter training, igniting our call for change and the collective effort needed to restore peace in our daily lives. This episode is a poignant reflection on the reality that every parent grapples with and every citizen can't afford to ignore.

Peering into the complex relationship between mental health and criminal behavior, we explore the intricate web of environmental influences, personal responsibility, and society's role in prevention. We share intimate stories that highlight the warning signs of a potential crisis and the critical need for mental health support and early intervention. The conversation then shifts to the pressing issue of gun control, where we balance our respect for the right to bear arms with a plea for more stringent protocols to safeguard our communities. It's not just a discussion; it's a call to action for unity and awareness as we stand against the tide of violence that threatens to erode our way of life.

Navigating the ever-changing terrain of the housing market can seem like a Herculean task, but equip yourself with our latest episode and you'll be charting your course with confidence. Reflecting on our maiden voyage into homeownership back in 2017, we dissect the complexities of the 2024 housing market, from the surging impact of inflation on property prices to the intricate web of mortgage options at your disposal. Whether you're a first-time buyer or a seasoned investor, our deep dive into the nuts and bolts of conforming and non-conforming loans, credit scores, and the saving grace of private mortgage insurance will leave you with a blueprint for success.

Ever wondered about the alphabet soup of home loans? FHA, USDA, VA—each one offers a distinct flavor, and we're serving up a full-tasting menu. If you're balancing a commission-based income, we share strategies for securing a mortgage that won't leave you high and dry. And for our rural dreamers and valiant military families, we peel back the layers on USDA and VA loans, revealing how these options could turn your dream of homeownership into reality. This episode isn't just about getting your foot in the door—it's about unlocking the right door for you.

As we chart the ebb and flow of real estate market prices, we anchor our conversation on the reality of rising construction costs and their ripple effect on your wallet. We share tales from our quest for the perfect home, weighing the gold dust of location against the value of investing in emerging neighborhoods. And with a nod to our roots in Houston, where the market has been as hot as a Texas summer, we close out our chat with a roadmap for anyone aiming to secure a slice of the American Dream. So, join us, and let's turn the key together on the adventure of home buying in 2024.

Take a journey with us, Enrique and Linda, as we unlock the secrets of Puerto Rico, far beyond what any travel brochure will tell you. We're veering off the beaten path of discussing real estate and the economy, and instead, we take you through the cobblestone streets of Old San Juan, where history is etched into every corner. From the imposing El Morro to the refreshing sips of the original Piña Colada, we've got you covered. And that's just the beginning—get ready to embrace the rush of zip-lining, soak in the beauty of Flamenco Beach, and immerse yourself in the cultural tapestry of the island's art scene.

Now, if you're thinking Puerto Rico is just historical sites and beachside cocktails, hold onto your hats! We're going to reveal a hidden beach that's a real-life 'choose your own adventure' with its secluded rock formations and waves that whisper tales of the Caribbean's past. Surfers, beach bums, and night owls alike will find something to love as we explore Rincon's waves, the Bioluminescent Bays' natural light show, and the local buzz around the T-Mobile District. It's a full spectrum of daytime delights and nocturnal excitements that will have you booking your next flight.

Wrapping up this tropical escapade, we're not just pointing you to the postcard-perfect spots; we're giving you a taste of Puerto Rico's soul. Indulge in a rum tasting journey that dances across your palate, venture into the depths of the Camuy Caverns, and get a snapshot of the heavens from Cueva de la Ventana. For the foodies, we'll even spill the beans on where to get the most authentic and delectable eats in Guavate. Every recommendation is a story waiting to unfold, a memory ready to be made, in this island paradise we can't wait to share with you.

When Linda and I took that daunting leap from our beloved Puerto Rico to the mainland, we became cartographers of change, mapping out a route through the emotional landscapes and logistical labyrinths of moving. Embark with us on a candid journey that spans from the trenches of job hunting in unfamiliar territory to the peaks of personal transformation. We navigate the emotional currents of leaving home and the practical elements of settling into a novel environment – all while sharing our own anecdotes of struggle and success that could very well be the compass you need for your own voyage.

Imagine setting foot in a new city, your dreams packed alongside your belongings, and the pulse of opportunity quickening your step. This episode peels back the layers of relocation, discussing the significance of the initial city choice, financial foresight for those pesky currency conversions, and the benefits of having a job lined up. We dissect the decisions that follow, from weighing the pros and cons of renting against buying, to comparing public transport with owning a car. It's a tale of two hearts taking on the world, and we chart the course for anyone braving their own relocation adventure.

But it's not all about the allure of new horizons – some paths are forged by necessity, with safety and survival as the guiding stars. We turn our gaze to those forced from their homelands, acknowledging the complexities they face and the resilience required to start anew. Whether it's the nuts and bolts of setting up your utilities, or the more profound considerations of moving with children or elderly family members, our conversation spans the spectrum of emotions and actions that shape the mosaic of moving. Tune in and let our experiences illuminate your path, as we share the wisdom of our journey and the lessons learned from uprooting life's delicate roots.

Wondering how to navigate the new normal? The rising trend of side hustles is becoming a popular solution for many Americans as they grapple with increasing inflation rates. Linda and I (Enrique), in our latest podcast episode, unpack the reasons behind this trend as we share about our personal journey of starting a business during a pandemic. 

We dive into the realities of side hustles, sharing the ups and downs of our personal journey, and exploring how the pandemic has amplified the trend. Amidst financial challenges, many have turned to social media and the internet to create new financial opportunities. Take a deep listen as we share our experience with selling products on Amazon and the lessons we've learned along the way. We also highlight the importance of resilience, passion, and creativity when starting a new venture.

Finally, we discuss numerous options for starting a side gig, and how to leverage social media for marketing. We hope our experiences will spur you to consider launching your own business, no matter how small. Stay tuned for our next episode as we continue to explore life in these changing times. Remember, we’re available on Instagram, YouTube, Apple Music, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Amazon. Until then, keep hustling!

Have you ever wondered how to keep the peace on a long car ride with a baby? Let's embark on a journey of discovery as we share our tried and tested travel tips and advice for parents. From entertaining babies during car rides, navigating the airport security checks with a stroller, to making the most out of a cruise trip with a baby - we spill it all! Our personal anecdotes and practical tips will arm you with confidence to tackle the challenges of traveling with your little one head-on.

Been on a flight and had to do a diaper change in an airplane washroom? We've been there! Tune in as we share our own in-flight experiences with babies. From wise meal timings to picking the right airplane seat and carrying only the essentials to the restroom, we’ve got you covered. And for those considering a cruise with a baby, hang tight! We’ve sailed that ship and have a treasure trove of advice to share. 

Rounding up our parenting series, we delve into the logistics of taking a baby on a cruise. We stress the importance of bringing enough supplies, planning for emergencies, and keeping the baby entertained on board. And if you're thinking of bringing someone along to help, we've got thoughts on that too! So, get ready to set sail on your next adventure, equipped with all the right information to make it a smooth voyage. Sit back, relax, and let our personal experiences guide your way through the world of traveling with a baby.

Ever wondered what goes on behind the curtain leading up to birth? Join us on this enlightening journey, where we pull back the veil and reveal our own personal birth story. We start with Linda's decision to be induced, the paperwork, and the insurance processes, all while giving you a sneak peek into what to pack in preparation for the big day. Our conversation is raw and real, filled with insights that we hope will prove beneficial to many.

Having a baby is a life-changing event, but what about the nitty-gritty details of labor and delivery? That's what we dive into next, discussing everything from the supplies you'll need, what the hospital provides, to what to expect during the process. We also shed light on postpartum challenges like bathroom problems, tearing, and jaundice in newborns. Hear about how we navigated these challenges and what we learned from the experience.

Lastly, we expose the reality of adjusting to parenthood - it's not all sunshine and rainbows! We explore the lifestyle changes, the physical transformation, and the pinnacle of exhaustion that comes along with the beautiful chaos of becoming a parent. We don't shy away from topics like postpartum depression, feelings of isolation, and the barrage of advice that new parents often receive. Tune in to hear about our experiences, our struggles, and our triumphs in the hope that it offers some solace for those navigating similar paths.

Have you ever felt the worry and frustration of struggling to conceive a child? Like you, we've faced the arduous journey of fertility issues; it's a road littered with pitfalls, heartbreak, and immense challenges. In our three-part parenting podcast series, we kick-start the discussion with our personal journey to parenthood. Join us, Enrique and Linda, as we share our experiences, from dealing with Linda's cyst and resultant single ovary, navigating fertility treatments, to finally realizing the joy of parenthood.

We promise to take you behind the scenes of fertility treatments, offering a firsthand account of various procedures, including hystereoscopies, ovulation induction, insemination, and in-vitro fertilization. We found out in our journey that medical facts can sometimes be surprising, like when Linda's fallopian tubes were open contrary to the initial diagnosis. We also shed light on the three primary fertility treatments out there and their associated costs, hoping to make this complex process less intimidating.

We believe that managing the emotional aspects of fertility issues is just as critical as the physical ones. Thus, we delve into how we journeyed from feeling lonely and anxious to having a healthy baby and being parents. We underscore the importance of emotional support, a compassionate medical team, and the role of a supportive partner in maneuvering through infertility. We discuss our experiences with the emotional roller coaster that comes with trying to conceive, and our long, 10-year journey to parenthood. Join us for this intimate conversation, and let's navigate this journey together.

Ever wondered what it's like when two contrasting souls navigate life together; a tennis professional and a corporate architect? Join us, Enrique and Linda, as we unveil the magic and mayhem of our daily lives, and how we turn our differences into strengths. Juggling new parenthood, experimenting with entrepreneurial ventures, and making life-altering decisions without a familial safety net, we're on a thrilling journey of self-discovery and growth, one that we're eager to share with you.

We're also excited to welcome friends and professional acquaintances onto the show, offering you a wealth of knowledge and insights across diverse fields. So, whether you're an artist, a business professional, or simply someone seeking to explore different perspectives, we're here to engage, enlighten, and entertain. You can connect with us on Amazon, Apple, Spotify or Instagram at Honey, Let's Do a Podcast. We release a new episode every Wednesday, and we're thrilled to have you with us on this exciting voyage!