Meet Teresa Morales | Former Educator & Author

We had the good fortune of connecting with Teresa Morales and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Teresa, what’s the most important thing you’ve done for your children?
I am a mom to three little boys who are my world, my inspiration, and my motivation to always keep going. The most important thing I think I’ve done as a parent to leave an impact on my children is showing them that anything is possible. If they work hard, they can achieve their dreams and be whoever they want to be, doing whatever they want to do in life. My boys were one of the main reasons why I decided to write a book and pursue it wholeheartedly. I wanted to have something to leave behind for them so they can always remember ‘if mom could do it, so can we…keep going’ and that ‘it’ can be anything they it to be. I always remind them to believe that the sky is the limit, and that possibilities are endless. I want them to know that they are my reason why I work so hard. I hope to impact them in this way while leaving an imprint on their hearts of my unconditional love I have for each of them.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am the creator and author of ‘Papito and The Squeezebox’. It is a children’s picture book about a young boy searching for his identity through his love for Tejano music with the support of his family. I am excited to see something like this published and to be able to share it with the world. Growing up I never saw my Hispanic culture or traditions represented in a book and it was my goal to give kids and families the opportunities to see themselves in my book. It wasn’t easy getting to where I am today. The journey was a rollercoaster, but I am grateful for the ride because without the obstacles I wouldn’t have learned so much. One of the biggest hurdles I dealt with was my book launching right at the beginning of COVID. So, I had to learn quickly that some things are completely out of your control, and you have to try to just roll with the punches making the best of it.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Being an Arizona native, I love my city and all that comes with it. However, if I had to choose just one area that would be my go-to destination when planning a weekend getaway or night out with family or friends it would have to be in Downtown Phoenix. It has grown so much from when I was little. There are a variety of restaurants to pick from, live entertainment, and an overall good time. One of my favorite things to do is to go to a Phoenix Suns game, the upbeat energy is electrifying!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to dedicate my shoutout to my husband Chris. He has been by my side throughout this entire journey, and I wouldn’t have been able to create and publish a book without his support. Chris is always there for me when I need advice, encouragement, and pushes me out of my comfort zone because he knows I can do it. I am so thankful for him and our boys because without them, I would have no purpose for pursing my dreams as they make it all worthwhile. I love you!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/papitossqueezebox/?hl=en

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/papito.squeezebox