Shakira's Song "Si Te Vas" Gave Me the Courage to Move to Mexico Alone and Follow My Heart
BY Araceli Cruz | June 13, 2018 AT 9:51 pm
By Araceli Cruz June 13, 2018 at 9:51 pm
As the youngest in five, I rarely had the chance to travel alone.
How could I? With a paranoid mom and a closed off dad, it was hard to ask for permission to venture out on my own. Sure, I had traveled a lot including abroad but I was either always with a family member or close friends. One year, my friend Sandra and I ventured throughout Mexico — a country I had never discovered on my own. When I was younger, I mostly stayed in the state of Nayarit because that's where my family is from. So I never had a reason, or the courage, to learn more about the surrounding states in Mexico.
That was until my friend Sandra introduced me to a magical city, right in the center of the country.
queretaromex / Instagram
She had studied in Queretaro, Mexico, as part of her study-abroad program in college. I felt a little ashamed that someone like me — a proud Mexican Latina — had never been there, let alone any other state outside of Nayarit.
She took me there years later when I was 25 and fell in love with this incredible historic city — and sequentially someone else too.
ready4trips / Instagram
One night — at a club — I saw a man, unlike anyone I had ever seen before.
Think of a Mexican version of John F. Kennedy Jr. He was dapper, preppy, and totally hot.
Completely out of my league too — or so I thought.
I didn't think I'd ever see him again, but the following night we returned to that same club and there he was, but this time at the table next to ours.
"Scarface" / Giphy.com
I coyly started dancing with him because why not? We ended up dancing the entire night together and I felt like I was literally floating.
Being there, in Queretaro, among local Mexicanos, listening to their music — unfiltered and unAmericanized, I had never felt that alive in my life.
qbarlounge / Instagram
This is when I discovered so much incredible Latin music like Fobia, Cafe Tacuba and Shakira.
I should rephrase that. I discovered Spanish-speaking Shakira years after she had released her 1998 album "Dónde Están los Ladrones?"
The album catapulted her into a Latin superstar and I was in awe of her rocker chick vibe.
shakixfan / Instagram
While I loved my individuality as an alternative Chicana, I sure didn't embody the independent woman I longed to be.
Even though I expressed a love for Spanish rock music, I was in a lot of ways very shy.
DaddyIssues / Instagram
But Shakira's album made me feel different.
The song that truly moved me on that album is called "Si te vas."
At first listen the song comes off as a ballad but it's much more of a painful rock song that happens to be about a loss of love — as most songs are.
However, in this track, Shakira's angst is infused throughout it just by the way she vocalizes certain aspects of the words.
But this is my favorite part:
"Si te vas si te vas si te marchas
Mi cielo se hará gris
Si te vas si te vas ya no tienes
Que venir por mi
Si te vas si te vas y me cambias
Por esa bruja pedazo de cuero
No vuelvas nunca mas, ya no estaré aquí."
But back to my imaginary love story. His name was Antonio.
And he was an architect that lived in Queretaro. I was infatuated to say the least. After our night of dancing, we went on a couple of dates, and one, in particular, that is too steamy to get into.
Soon after I returned to California soon after still on cloud nine.
Youtube.com / Giphy.com
But that's all it took.
I really thought I was in love with this Mexican heartthrob.
sova02 / Instagram
When I returned to my real life, Antonio and I kept in touch.
We emailed, talked on the phone, and in my head, I was already scheming about how to go back to see him.
ABC / GIphy.com
I didn't know how I would go back to Queretaro, but I knew that I had to. What I felt for Antonio was undeniable and I wasn't going to let anything get in my way.
I didn't tell anyone about my plan.
ptrzykd / Giphy.com
I would just sit in my room — yes, I was a 26-year-old that still lived at home — and listened to Shakira's album and think about Antonio.
One day it hit me. I would save money, enough for three months worth of rent, and move to Queretaro.
CW / Giphy.com
I talked to my parents about it and simply said: "I need to get away and just write."
My parents didn't fight with me over the plan.
I secretly think they just wanted me out of the house. And so I saved, and saved, and saved, every penny I could get my hands on. When I finally had enough, I bought a one-way ticket to Mexico City. I don't even remember being scared.
I just remember having a direct plan and listening to my Shakira playlist.
@trulysocial / Instagram
It didn't feel like I was alone either. When you're traveling alone and listening to music, it's like your famous friends are there right there with you.
I stayed at the most picturesque house in Queretaro and didn't even tell Antonio that I was coming to town.
Yes, that was probably a mistake, but I didn't care to hear anything negative. I guess underneath I knew what I was doing was kind of nuts, but love makes you do crazy things. When I did tell Antonio that I was in town, he said what I was dreading:
"You didn't come here for me, did you?" he said.
"No! Of course, not. I came to write," I said quickly.
"Oh, that's good, because I have a girlfriend," he said.
I think at that moment my body went numb because I don't remember feeling sad or angry, just kind of in shock.
"How long have you been with her?" I said. I should note that it had only been a few months since I had last seen him.
"Always," he said. "I've always been with her."
The next couple of hours were a daze, but I cried myself to sleep that night. Here I was in Queretaro, all alone, and three more months to go. The next morning, I got up early, turned on my Shakira playlist and went for a run.
Credit: Araceli Cruz
Even though I was sad about the fact that Antonio had a girlfriend the entire time we were together, I realized how special it was that I was in this amazing city.
For the next three months, I did write.
I wrote a lot in fact, and I also met someone else.
Identity / Giphy.com
That relationship didn't go beyond my time in Queretaro, but I loved knowing that heartbreak would not be the end of me.
The joy of being alone in Queretaro and doing exactly what I had envisioned all on my own was all I needed.
qrobici / Instagram
Even now when I listen to "Si te vas" I never feel sad about Antonio, just pure happiness that I did something pretty extraordinary and have memories that will last me a lifetime.
READ: I Developed At A Young Age, But America Ferrera's Character Was The Only One Who Really Helped Me Channel My Confidence
Is there a Shakira song that inspired you to do something incredible?
Love shakira
20 Lingerie Sets That Will Get You Ready for Valentine's Day
By Samantha Chavarria February 13, 2019 at 6:45 pm
BY Samantha Chavarria | February 13, 2019 AT 6:45 pm
It's only natural to want to look your best on Valentine's Day. This includes your date-night outfit and the look you'll slip into that evening. However, lingerie isn't just for the benefit of your significant other. It should also be something that makes you feel comfortable and confident.
Luckily, there are plenty of lingerie companies ready to cater to our Valentine's Day needs. Just pick your style, color and size and you'll find a lingerie set perfect for your night of amor.
Try one of these lingerie sets for the Valentine's night of your dreams.
1. Get your heart on with this sweet bustier set.
Adoreme.com
Nothing says Valentine's Day like being covered in cute little hearts. Deck yourself out in this adorable matching bustier set and get ready for some love. Available at AdoreMe.com, this set is simple enough to slip on under your little black dress and bold enough for when you're ready to put on a show. Available in plus sizes.
2. The babydoll of your dreams.
You're already the angel of your novio's dreams so this sweet babydoll is icing on the cake. A part of Victoria's Secret Dream Angels line, this set offers a sheer skirt attached to a criss cross peekaboo halter. It's sheer skirt will have you feeling fun and flirty. Available in 5 colors and 5 sizes.
3. A BERRY beautiful Valentine's outfit.
For a sensual play on the typical V-day lingerie, try this deep berry number. From Victoria's Secret, this teddy takes things to the next level with its plunging keyhole and all-over sheer coverage. Scalloped lace will have you feeling delicate but its bold cut just screams daring. Available in 3 colors and 5 sizes.
4. You'll love how you feel in this sexy slip.
You can't go wrong with this black set that's anything but basic. Available at AdoreMe.com, this babydoll is lacy in all the right places and comes with a matching panty and adjustable straps. It's little bow details will remind your love just what a gift you are and will have you ready to be unwrapped. Available in plus sizes. Also available in white.
5. Look hot in this hot pink teddy.
You can never go wrong with pink. Available from Victoria's Secret, this hot pink teddy will set the tone for your hot night of passion. It's lacy material, high neckline and thong bottoms are just the the right amount of sexy. Available in 3 colors and 5 sizes.
6. You won't be feeling blue in this babydoll.
Frederick's of Hollywood
Can't choose between lace and mesh? No problem! This gorgeous teddy has them both and comes in a unique royal blue that will catch his attention. Offered by Frederick's of Hollywood, the bodice has an underwire and padded cups to keep you feeling supported. Available in 2 colors and 4 sizes.
7. You'll get all the besos in this bustier.
Every woman should have a good bustier in their lingerie rotation and this beautiful two-toned set perfectly fits that need. From Victoria's Secret Dream Angels collection, this bustier is boned and has lined cups to make this an comfy under-clothing wear. Removable garters add to this hands-on experience. Available in 2 colors and cup sizes A-D.
8. Try on this charming chemise.
Feminine and lacy, this chemise is a vision in lavender. Available from Frederick's of Hollywood, this set features criss cross straps plunging from the bust to navel. These straps are mimicked on the back side — showing off your backstage talent if you know what we mean. Available in 4 sizes.
9. Take the plunge with this babydoll
This babydoll means business. Showing off a plunging neckline and a bare back, this set wants you to feel comfortable in your skin. Offered by Victoria's Secret, it's removable garters and simple silhouette easily make this an every day wear. Available in 3 colors and 5 sizes.
10. Sheer=sexy.
This barely-there chemise mixes sophistication with sexiness. Mostly sheer expect for its padded cups, the set features a high neckline, cap sleeves and a bare back. Available by Frederick's of Hollywood, this chemise says delicate from the front but daring from behind. Available in plus sizes.
11. Who said casual can't be sensual?
If g-strings and thongs aren't your thing, this set's bralette and shorts combo might be your perfect match. Featuring a lace t-back bralette and tap shorts, this set sold by AdoreMe.com is both casual and flirty. Available in 5 sizes.
12. You'll look great in these garters.
This red-hot, all-lace set is dramatic, daring and 100% a Valentine's Day must. It's demi contour corset is sure to show off your shape. The matching bustier set is available from AdoreMe.com. Add thigh high stockings with the garters for a sexier overall look. Available in plus sizes.
13. Mesh never looked so good.
Seductive scalloped edges and see-through mesh make this chemise feel as luxurious as you'll look. A sexy pushup, detachable garters and matching g-string make this Frederick's of Hollywood set a sensual classic. Available in plus sizes.
14. Valentine's Day means lace all over the place.
Fashionnova.com
If you've got it, flaunt it, mama! This lacy body suit leaves little to the imagination and essenuates what it covers. A FashionNova.com piece, it features a bare back and sides, a plunging neckline, and cheeky coverage in the back. Available in 2 colors and 3 sizes.
15. This bodysuit will have you ready to be unwrapped.
Mix some lovely lace and a bit of a bandage edge and you'll get this sexy body suit. Available from AdoreMe.com, scalloped lace is criss crossed across your body using gold o-rings to keep you wrapped up. It's unlined cups and cheeky panty make this an irresistible lingerie choice for your big night. Available in 5 sizes.
16. You'll be sweet like pan dulce in this babydoll.
Fun and flirty, this red number adds a unique texture to the usual lace and mesh lingerie game. An AdoreMe.com original, the sweet babydoll utilizes soft velvet in the bodice and hem. As beautiful as this set will make you feel, it's flyaway back also makes it easy to remove. Available in 5 sizes.
17. In blue, he can't take his eyes off of you.
You won't be left feeling blue this Valentine's when your boo catches you in this set. With blue and silver threading laced throughout its mesh front, the bustier adds some glitz to your bedroom. Offered by AdoreMe.com, the form-fitting bodice will show off your curves beautifully. Available in plus sizes.
18. Get cuddly in this teddy.
With shimmering lace, a plunging front, and a cheeky panty, this teddy has sexy down to a science. The adjustable halter top makes sure you'll have the perfect fit every time. Available from AdoreMe.com, this teddy is much more sheer than it appears. Available in plus sizes.
19. Sexual. Sexy. Satin.
Even if you'd rather have a comfy pjs set than traditional lingerie, you can still show off your sexy. This satin two-peice features a pair of lace-lined shorts and an adjustable tank top. Offered by FashionNova.com, this set is available in 8 different colors and 7 sizes.
20. Feel lovely in this lace number.
Don't let the high neck fool you. This teddy's sexy keyhole cut out, bare back and cheeky bottom bring all you'll need for Valentine's night. Available through Victoria's Secret, it's from their Dream Angels lingerie collection. It's adjustable halter offers comfort and style. Available in 3 colors and 5 sizes.
calientefashionlingerieLovesexyvalentine's day
20 Celebrity Couples Who Were Together 10 Years Ago
By Araceli Cruz February 10, 2019 at 2:19 am
BY Araceli Cruz | February 10, 2019 AT 2:19 am
Love in Hollywood is fleeting.
For one reason or another, relationships just don't stick for the rich and famous. Despite their frivolous interchange of boyfriends and girlfriends, each relationship mattered. Heck, they still do! We can clearly remember these couples as they were, young and wealthy with no care in the world. Some of these units had an obvious shelf life, but others truly seemed like they would last — and some of them even did.
Here's a look back at some of our favorite couples from the past that still reminds us that true love exists even if it's for a short while.
1. Madonna and Jesus Luz
Instagram/@world_of_madonna
Madonna has had countless boyfriends, and at least two husbands, but the lady clearly has a thing for Latin men. She dated Jesus Luz, a Brazilian model, and DJ for quite some time. Now, Luz is married (with someone else) and a father of two.
2. Selena Gomez and Taylor Lautner
Instagram/@selmybae_1
Oh Selena…we love her hopeless romantic aura, especially back in the day when she dated Taylor Lautner from the "Twilight" franchise. But then he moved on to Taylor Swift. Wow.
3. Eva Longoria & Tony Parker
Instagram/@ktsanews
When Eva Longoria broke out into the scene as a Desperate Housewife, she had that whole Hollywood picturesque life down cold. Her relationship with NBA star Tony Parker catapulted them into a real power couple. Alas, they divorced. But do not fret, Longoria found love once again with José Bastón, and is now a mother of a baby boy.
4. Alex Rodriguez and Kate Hudson
YouTube/Nertinas
Alex Rodriguez has been around the block, to say the least. From Madonna to Cameron Diaz, the boy has a thing for blondes. Just take his time with Kate Hudson. Perhaps he learned his lesson and decided to stick with brunettes.
5. Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony
Instagram/@binxybaby23
Speaking of A-Rod, his new love — Jennifer Lopez — was married to Marc Anthony ten years ago. We really thought this was it for both them. What did we know!
6. Nick Cannon and Mariah Carey
YouTube/Ken Fuhr
When Nick Cannon got Mariah Carey's name tattooed on his back, we should have known that these two were doomed for splitsville, and yet we still hoped for the best.
7. Nicole Richie and Joel Madden
Instagram/@sofiarichiegirl
America's bad girl, Nicole Ritchie found her bad boy and soul mate in Good Charlotte's frontman Joel Madden. This is another success story because they are still together and have two kids.
8. Sarah Michelle Gellar and Freddie Prinze Jr.
Instagram/@2000strashed
The union of Freddie Prinze Jr. and Michelle Geller is like a page out of the movie scene. The two did meet on the set of "I Know What You Did Last Summer," which came out in 1997, and they have been together ever since.
9. Jessica Alba and Cash Warren
Instagram/@jessicaalba_queen
California native Jessica Alba — who now runs a multi-million empire — met her baby daddy, Cash Warren in 2004, and got married in 2008. Still going strong till this day.
10. Justin Timberlake and Cameron Diaz
YouTube/@robott707
Cameron Diaz dated former 'NSYNC-er Justin Timberlake post-Britney Spears in the late aughts. They dated for a couple of years until they both started dating other people.
11. Penelope Cruz and Javier Bardem
Instagram/@ingenuemood
Penélope Cruz and Javier Bardem are Spanish royalty. Way before they even got married, these two were the most famous Spanish actors in American cinema that one would have thought "why aren't these to together?" Well, eventually, after years of meeting on the set, they finally did and have been married since 2010.
12. Demi Lovato and Wilmer Valderama
Instagram/@i_need_a_life_2002
Between 2010 to 2016, Demi Lovato began a long-term relationship with actor Wilmer Valderrama. Despite their 12-year age difference, these two have remained in contact long after their breakup.
13. Cassie and Diddy
Instagram/@popcultureinashell
In 2007, mode and performer Cassie became the face of Diddy's fashion label Sean John, but the couple didn't make it official until 2012. In a 2013 interview, Cassie said about Diddy that "just being around him is a completely inspiring experience." The couple recently split up, but it's clear the hip hop mogul wants her back.
14. Matt Damon and Luciana Damon
Instagram/@doraziopr
When actor Matt Damon spotted waitress Luciana Bozán Barroso in Miami in 2003, the boy was hooked. The couple married two years later and have been together ever since. The couple has four daughters together.
15. Matthew McConaughey and Camila Alves
Instagram/@people
Another love at first sight moment came when Matthew McConaughey met model Camila Alves at an L.A. club in 2006, even though he wasn't ready to settle down. "Out of the corner of my eye, this sort of aqua-green figure went floating across the frame about 20 feet in front of me," McConaughey said in a 2016 interview. McConaughey and Alves married in 2012 and have three children together.
16. Zoe Saldana and Keith Britton
YouTube/Incredible Top 10
Way before Zoe Saldana was a loving mom of three boys with Italian hubby artist Marco Perego, she dated and was engaged to Keith Britton. Britton, a CEO of a fashion website, and Saldana were together for 11 years but broke up in 2011.
17. Jennifer Esposito and Bradley Cooper
YouTube/Welcome
Before Bradley Cooper became the mega-famous, Academy Award-nominated actor and director, that he is today, he was just a struggling actor in 2006. That's the year he married actress Jennifer Esposito. Unfortunately, the couple divorced after five months of being together.
18. Lenny Kravitz and Adriana Lima
YouTube/TheChatter
The now-retired Victoria Secret model, Adriana Lima was actually engaged to artist Lenny Kravitz but it was all on the down low. He spoke about their engagement briefly in a 2004 interview — during the height of his career. They both, however, went their separate ways. In 2008, the model became engaged to Serbian NBA player Marko Jarić.
19. Selena Gomez and Justin Bieber
Instagram/@boyfriendbiebs
One of the most tumultuous relationships in Hollywood has to be that of Justin Bieber and Selena Gomez. The couple met in late 2010 and began an off-and-on relationship for the next few years. They were back together in 2017 but broke up soon after. Bieber is now married to model Hailey Baldwin.
20. Anna Kournikova and Enrique Iglesias
Instagram/@e_iglesias08
In 2001, Enrique Iglesias met his baby mama Russian tennis player Anna Kournikova and were hot and heavy for several years. While they broke up in 2013, they soon got back together and had twins in 2017.
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