Ascending Butterfly

Win a Got Milk? Themed Gift Basket! Chock of full of great stuff and Gift Cards (like American Express & Starbucks!) too! - 2 winners!

noreply@blogger.com (Tracy Iglesias) — Fri, 24 May 2013 02:45:00 +0000

#ad: This is a Sponsored Giveaway. Full Dislcosure Below

I have a strong feeling that most of you are already familiar with the Got Milk? Campaign and have seen even celebs rocking those iconic Milk Mustaches everywhere! I got to meet the team last year at BlogHer 2012 in New York City and had fun at their booth hamming it up and posing for photos. Check out my picture from BlogHer last year with my Milk Mustache:

Ascending Butterfly & The Milkman at The Breakfast Project Booth, BlogHer12

If you are already following us on Pinterest I'm sure you have already seen that photo. Sometimes we post photos on Pinterest that don't make a blog post, so be sure to follow us there as well! The Breakfast Project, milkmustache.com, knows that every good day starts with Milk, and the campaign is running both in English and Spanish. In Spanish it's called El Proyecto Desayuno and can be found at bigotedeleche.com. Please stop over there right now and take a peek! Guess who the Blogger of the Month/Bloguera Del Mes is? That's right, it's ME!

Making Milk a part of your morning routine has incredible health benefits, including:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Helping to avoid Osteoporosis, Hypertension and Colon Cancer, these benefits come from drinking milk directly and do not come from only consuming a supplement. (talk about 'one to grow on'!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Protecting you from Tooth Decay and Cavity Problems

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Keeping you slim! People who drink Milk regularly actually stay slim and enjoy the many natural vitamins and minerals that help keep you healthy and fit. I know people tend to think the contrary, but Milk as part of a healthy diet can keep you slim and fit!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - By drinking Milk regularly you can help prevent heartburn and other gastric problems. Drinking a glass of milk when you experience heartburn can calm your food pipe from inflammation.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - The calcium in Milk gives you strong bones, teeth, nails and helps your hair too!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - My Grandma swore by a hot glass of milk at night and she was right, it can soothe your nerves and help relax tense muscles which helps put you to sleep.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Also helps to replenish the body and is good after a strenous workout!

Milk provides nutrients that the body requires to function properly, vitamins (for our red blood cells), calcium (for strong bones), carbohydrates (for energy), magnesium (for muscles), phosphorous (for utilizing energy), potassium (for the nervous system), protein (growth and the healing process), riboflavin (healthy skin) and zinc (boosts immune system). Who knew that one simple glass of milk did so much? If you are not Lactose Intolerant, then you should make sure you are drinking at least one glass of milk per day, and adding it on at breakfast will help you start your day right!

The folks at Proyecto Desayuno sent over a great gift basket full of Milk Related Items to help me celebrate making Blogger of the Month/Bloguera Del Mes, check it out here:

I have got to put on the tshirt so I can take a picture with it on! The basket contained Special K Cereal Bars, Ferrero Rocher Chocolates, Chocolate Straws, Sugar Wafers, a Got Milk? tshirt, Cafe Bustelo (which instantly reminded me of my Abeulita!), A Picture Frame with motivational messages about the importance of family (why is it that I can never have too many picture frames? I love to display my photos!), a pitcher, a Got Milk? Cup with straw, H2O Milk Skincare Products (I love all things H2O! In fact I'm currently using their Sea Salt line in my shower!), and great gift cards including a $15 Starbucks Gift Card, and a $50 American Express Gift Card).

WIN IT:

Ascending Butterfly and the folks at Proyecto Desayuno want you to join in the fun too! 2 very lucky butterflies have a chance to win a Gift Basket of their own! While some of the items may vary in your basket, the gift card amounts will remain the same and be the same for both winners! The main entry is easy peasy, so be sure to enter using the Rafflecopter Widget below:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Is Milk already a part of your Healthy Breakfast Butterflies?

˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙

FTC Disclosure: This is a Sponsored Giveaway by Proyecto Desayuno, All Opinions are 100% my own. Visit our Giveaway and Disclosure Policy HERE. I do feel that Milk is a very important part of a healthy breakfast and is very much a part of my personal morning routine!

Wordless Wednesday: Be the Flow!

noreply@blogger.com (Tracy Iglesias) — Thu, 23 May 2013 01:06:00 +0000

We are not formal enough for a linky widget around here, bloggers feel free to comment with a link to your Wordless Wednesday Post and we'll be sure to stop by and say hi!

Happy Wordless Wednesday Butterfly!

˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙

FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a sponsored post.

May is National Moving Month - Tips for a Hassle Free Move + Score a Sweet Discount on your next move here!

noreply@blogger.com (Tracy Iglesias) — Tue, 21 May 2013 14:56:00 +0000

Ad: This is a Sponsored Post on behalf of unpakt, all opinions are 100% my own:

Sadly dear butterflies, Mr. Rogers isn't always right; It's not always a beautiful day in the neighborhood. My neighborhood especially. Loud Music Blaring All Day AND All Night. Tons of nefarious goings on that the both the landlord and super turn a blind eye to, what's a butterfly to do?

With May being National Moving Month, and me being ready for change on so many levels, a Move sounds like a great idea to me! There is very little in my neighborhood that I'll miss quite frankly. If you share my sentiments about being ready for a change of scenery this year and a move is on your agenda, I've got you covered with ideas to get you ready for moving day!

Moving Tips:

TIMING - Spring or late Fall are the best times to move. If possible, avoid the first, last and middle of the month when planning your move.

BOOKING: Moving in the summer? Book at least a month in advance! If you are moving in Spring, Fall or Winter you can book two weeks in advance. Don't forget to consider the weather for your area!

ORGANIZING YOUR MOVE - You need a system, try color coordinating with a designated colored sticker for each box that is based on the room the box should end up in, this way the movers will know where to put everything when you arrive, and you can spend less time directing traffic. Or if that sounds like too much work, you can still try out the color system by assigning each family member a color to keep their belongings organized during the move.

PACK A BOX OF 'MUST HAVES' - This is by far my favorite idea: Pack a box of 'must-haves' that includes items such as a change of clothes, toothbrushes, toiletries, so you won't have to search through all the boxes for these things after a long day of moving. Invariably you won't un-pack everything that first day, but this box will have all the major items you need so you don't have to worry if you decide to stop early and just get some rest!

THINK 'LIKE' - If you keep like items together, it will alleviate time when un-packing.

KEEP 'MUST SECURES' HANDY - Just like you pack a box of must have essentials, you should also consider packing important paperwork and jewelry in a box that stays with YOU at all times!

Save Money on your Move:

DECLUTTER - Before you move, as you are packing, be firm about not bringing anything along you don't really need. (By the way a great rule of thumb is this, if the item you are about to pack up and bring with you hasn't been used in 3 months, chances are you can toss it and not pack it!).

DO YOUR HOMEWORK - An ounce of prevention is always worth a pound of cure my friends! Read Reviews because bad movers will end up costing you more in the long run.

INSURANCE - Take out insurance to protect valuables you cannot afford to replace.

BUDGET - Prepare a budget in advance so you can keep expenses low.

TAX BREAKS - Remember if your move is job-related, you may be able to deduct your moving expenses depending upon how you itemize deductions, check with your accountant/tax professional when filing.

LUGGAGE - In addition to using recycled boxes or renting plastic bins, you can also use existing luggage, use the luggage to move items that you want to remember to have handy so you don't have to search through the boxes or bins.

Tips for Moving With Children:

ONE BOX - Try to pack up child's favorite belongings in one box, and if they have lugguage use their luggage for this purpose, this way you don't spend tons of time sorting through different boxes to find a favorite stuffed animal or pillow.

STICKERS - Let kids decorate their own boxes using fun stickers (if you use something like animal stickers and assign each child a specific animal it will make it easier to sort through when you arrive)

PLAY DATE - If at all possible set up a play date so the kids are away from the moving site, this way you can focus on the move, and the kids won't be under foot of you or the movers. And it also avoids the risk of them getting hurt while furniture and heavy objects are being moved.

UNPACK THEM FIRST - It's easier to un-pack your child's room first and then work on common rooms, this way the move doesn't throw off bed schedules.

About Unpakt:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - First web app/digital marketplace/price comparison site for moving services!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Helps you find reputable moving companies, compare exact prices, read user reviews and book online instantly!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Streamlines the entire 'booking a mover' process to UNDER an hour!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Named one of The Next Web's Top 10 Apps for Home & Work!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Featured in The NY Times, Forbes, TechCrunch, The Huffington Post, Real Simple and more!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Available Coast to Coast!

How it Works:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Enter Move Basics (where/when/what you are moving)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Compare Moving Companies with exact prices, read user reviews and more. You can also save your move plan for later and make changes at any time. Perfect if you want to do preliminary research and then check in with your spouse at a different time.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Book mover at a guaranteed price. Price will not change unless you change inventory or conditions such as distance, stairs, etc.

NAB A DEAL ON YOUR NEXT MOVE:

Not only was Unpakt nice enough to share these great tips, they are also offering a sweet deal to Ascending Butterfly readers! Receive 5% instant cash back on your next move! Enter promo code: BUTTERFLY on Unpakt.com when booking and save. Must book by 07/31/13.

Get Social:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 'Like' Unpakt on Facebook
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow @Unpakt on twitter and tweet them using Hashtags #moving, #movingday, #startup

**Always remember when getting social to tell them you saw them featured on Ascending Butterfly**

So Butterfly, When is YOUR next move?

˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙

FTC Disclosure: This is a Sponsored Post on behalf of Unpakt.com, however all opinions shared are 100% my own. By the way, my neighborhood truly does suck!

{#Motivation Monday} Michael Bublé #ToBeLoved" {#Music #Review}

noreply@blogger.com (Tracy Iglesias) — Mon, 20 May 2013 04:01:00 +0000

Motivation Monday Music Review:

Disclosure: I participated in this campaign for One2One Network. I received a free copy of the album to facilitate my review. By posting, I am eligible for additional incentives. All opinions stated are my own.

With one of my online personas being "The Official #TwitterPartyDJ" I'm sure the reigning assumption is that I listen to Pop/Dance Music all day long, the truth is while I did grow up around DJ's and the music scene and I do have a great ear for transitions and mixing, the nickname came up more for my hosting and co-hosting Twitter Parties then it did for my listening preferences. Over time when the nickname stuck, I started getting Audio Gear to review and I get more emails from labels and artists asking me to 'play' their song on twitter than I can even count. (If only I had one dollar for every request I receive from artists....I wouldn't have to play the Powerball anymore that's for sure!)

Don't get me wrong, I'm not complaining, Music and Travel are my primary passions (and pastimes) and I'm always more than happy to share my favorites every chance I get! I have a pretty eclectic music and book library. My collections are vast and varied, and there is pretty much something to suit almost any taste, preference or mood.

Music sets a tone, it gives a party life, makes long commutes appear to fly by, and can alter one's mood in an instant.

I live in the City and my apartment complex is filled with hugely inconsiderate neighbors who play loud music with such frequency it almost made me start to hate the one thing I really love. But I wouldn't be an Ascending Butterfly if I let anything or anyone get me down!

For me the end of a super long day means seeking peace and stillness, and there is nothing better than a long hot bath, a glass of wine and soothing music, to drown out the annoying neighbors! I put on my headphones, lay back on the bath pillow and just let my mind wander. My bath-time playlist is a mix of jazz favorites, crooners and balladeers!

"Do not think I take my success these last ten years for granted. I was anything but an overnight sensation,which inspires me to deliver big time for my fans—maybe even make some new ones this time out." says Bublé.

One of the artists that come up in my 'Tub-Time Playlist' is Michael Bublé, his last two albums topped the charts for over a month, and it would be no surprise if he did it again with his newest release To Be Loved. This is his eighth studio album!

There are fourteen songs on the new album, ten are covers, most of those are Frank Sinatra covers. Michael has always been compared to Sinatra since the very beginning, so it's only fitting that this album is practically a Sinatra Tribute.

"I labored over every song, every note and every arrangement because I can’t resist trying to make each record better than my last one." says Bublé.

To Be Loved Track Listing:

1. “You Make Me Feel So Young”
2. “It’s a Beautiful Day”
3. “To Love Somebody”
4. “Who’s Lovin You”
5. “Something Stupid” (featuring Reese Witherspoon)
6. “Come Dance with Me”
7. “Close Your Eyes”
8. “After All” (featuring Bryan Adams)
9. “Have I Told You Lately That I Love You” (with Naturally 7)
10. “To Be Loved”
11. “You’ve Got a Friend in Me”
12. “Nevertheless (I’m in Love with You)” (featuring The Puppini Sisters)
13. “I Got It Easy”
14. “Young at Heart”

I have a feeling you have probably heard about it by now or have even seen it by now, but just in case, here is the "It's A Beautiful Day" [Official Video]:

My Take:

Sometimes a Butterfly just needs to RELAX. This is definitely a great album to un-wind with after a long day, so for Motivation Monday I leave you with one thought 'To Be Loved'!

Buy it at a great price (amazon always has great prices!):

Who makes you feel loved Butterfly?

˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙

Disclosure: I participated in this campaign for One2One Network. I received a free copy of the album to facilitate my review. By posting, I am eligible for additional incentives. All opinions stated are my own. The Banner to buy the album via Amazon is an affiliate link

{#Review + #Giveaway} I Took The Gorton's Seafood (@gortonsseafood ) Challenge & You Can Too!

noreply@blogger.com (Tracy Iglesias) — Sun, 19 May 2013 09:43:00 +0000

GORTON'S SEAFOOD CHALLENGE:

I am a seafood lover, and when I go on vacation it's my favorite part of being near the sea. I like tropical vacations, I guess it's from growing up in the North East where it's cold more months of the year than it is hot. For me a getaway means being by the Beach: palm trees, drinks served in coconuts and some kind of seafood = VACATION.

But when there is no time for a getaway, or I'm nowhere near the beach, or just want seafood for dinner I have always turned to Gorton's Seafood, much like the commercials, I do trust the Gorton's Fisherman, it's what I grew up on when I was younger and the brand I still buy today.

When Gorton's put out the Seafood Challenge, I couldn't resist participating! Gorton's is encouraging families to eat seafood twice a week and they have a collection of recipes as well as 20 products that are 200 calories or less to help encourage a healthy diet!

There are numerous benefits to eating fish:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - They contain Omega-3 fatty acids (my personal fave, Salmon, is very high in Omega-3's)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Promote Heart Health

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Decrease Blood Pressure, triglycerides and cholesterol levels

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Improve Arthritis and Joint Pain

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Lessens symptoms of Depression

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Lessens symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Supports Eye Health

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Enhances Brain Growth and Development

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Aids Brain Growth in unborn babies, infants and kids

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Decreases the risks for certain Cancers (We have done quite a bit of Cancer related Coverage this week, if you missed our coverage, read HERE and HERE)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Reduces the symptoms of Alzheimer's Disease

Try it in a RECIPE:

Part of the challenge was to try out a Gorton's Seafood under 200 Calories Product in a recipe, and I prepared one of my favorites: SHRIMP and SAUSAGE STUFFED MUSHROOMS:

@Wizard Recipes

But I substituted my recipe and instead of using the shrimp from the local fish market I used Gorton's Shrimp Scampi for an extra kick of flavor!

Ingredients:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 1 box of Gorton's Shrimp Scampi

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 1 Kielbasa or Andouille Sausage

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 1 medium yellow or red onion, diced

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 1 small green pepper, diced

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 1 tsp of diced Garlic

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 1 tbsp worcestershire sauce

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 1tbsp balsamic vinegar
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 1tsp of AllSpice
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 1 box of Panko
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 1tbsp Mayo
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 1 tbsp Mustard

Directions:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Pan Fry Chopped/Diced Sausage until done, set aside

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Saute onion, pepper and garlic

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Add Chopped/Diced Shrimp

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - A bit before the shrimp are actually done, mix (Sausage, Shrimp, onion, Pepper Garlic) into a bowl, add Mayo, Mustard, worcestershire sauce and balsamic and mix together evenly, I prefer to mix in my Panko, but if you prefer the Panko on top and not mixed into the mixture then go ahead and spoon the mix into your preferred mushrooms (organic, portobello etc), if you prefer Panko mixed in like I do, all you need to do is sprinkle with a little four cheese mix (if you don't like cheese or don't wish to add cheese you can skip this step) and if you didn't mix in the panko, you would now put it on top of the mushrooms.

Serving Suggestion: You can plate them with sliced lemon as shown above. If you do not eat meat you can omit the sausage and just add extra veggies!

I also used the Gorton's Tilapia to make Fish Tacos, and those definitely went over well!

These can also be made with the Crunchy Breaded Tilapia Fillets for a bolder, crunchier taco!

Win It! - Our friends at Gorton's want you to take the Seafood Challenge too!

GIVEAWAY:

1 Lucky Ascending Butterfly will win a Gorton's Seafood Prize Pack which includes:

5 full-value product coupons so you can sample several different 20 at 200 products
1 Gorton's branded apron
2 Gorton's branded oven mitts
1 Gorton's branded spatula

Get Social/Save Money:

You can get social with Gorton's on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest and right now you can also download a coupon for $1.00 off any two Gorton's items HERE! (app direct links on Facebook can sometimes be tricky so if the direct link didn't work for you just visit Gortons Seafood on Facebook, make sure you are signed in of course) and then you will see a blue banner on the top right that reads 'Download Coupon', press there and the app will launch where you can download/print the coupon.)

Enter using the Rafflecopter Widget Below: (if it takes long to load, just refresh your browser)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

What is your Favorite Type of Seafood Butterfly?

˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙

Disclosure: No monetary compensation has been received by Ascending Butterfly in exchange for this post. A Seafood Challenge pack was provided for editorial consideration and a pack has also been provided for one winner. Prize Fulfillment rests with Giveaway Sponsor. Ascending Butterfly and Giveaway Sponsors are not responsible for lost, late or mis-directed mail. All opinions and stories contained herein are 100% my own. I am a Gorton's Blogger Program Member. Visit our Giveaway Rules and Disclosure Policy Page HERE for full Disclsoure.

#ad: I am joining @AmericanCancer Society to #finishthefight against #Cancer, because for me, it's very much Personal! Learn how YOU can help too!

noreply@blogger.com (Tracy Iglesias) — Fri, 17 May 2013 02:03:00 +0000

Let's Finish The Fight {Sponsored Video}

Disclosure: I am honored to have this opportunity to tell my story as part of the American Cancer Society's 100th Birthday Celebration. While this is a Sponsored Post that includes a Sponsored Video Message, all opinions and stories contained herein are 100% my own. This post is Sponsored by the American Cancer Society.

It's no secret that 'The Big C' has been a major part of my life. I lost my Great-Grandmother to a Brain Tumor, my Grandmother to Uterine Cancer, my Dad to Liver Cancer, and my Mother has battled Ovarian Cancer twice and thankfully is here to tell her tale. Last year I was diagnosed with end stage Lung Cancer despite the fact I have never touched a Cigarette in my entire life. My ongoing battle, (as it stands I am being told by one hospital it's not while another is very sure it is) has not been an easy one. My Godmother, (who is also by blood) my Great Aunt, lost her battle to skin cancer.

I HATE Cancer. There I said it. Hate is not a word I use lightly. I don't use it carelessly. Since I started blogging I have taken as many opportunities as I possibly can to share about initiatives that aid in the fight against Cancer, not just Breast Cancer, but ALL Cancers equally. The fight against Cancer is very much a personal one for me.

In College I helped to put together a Fundraiser Concert for the American Cancer Society, it combined two passions of mine, my love of music (you listen to a lot of music and do a lot of praying while someone you love (or while you yourself), is undergoing testing and treatments) and my desire to aid in the fight in some way. The way fellow students on campus rallied to help is something I have never forgotten.

Will there be a cure in our lifetime? I can't answer that question with total certainty one way or the other, but what I can tell you with 100% certainty is that Cancer does NOT discriminate. It doesn't care how young you are, how much life you have yet to live. It doesn't care if you have a family that needs you. It doesn't care how important you are, it doesn't care what you have done nor does it care what you haven't yet accomplished.

Close your eyes and imagine hearing a Doctor tell you that you have end stage cancer and that you are 'on borrowed' time. How would you feel? What is the first thought that crossed your mind? Was it the loved ones you'd be leaving behind? Something you really want to achieve in life that you haven't had the opportunity to do yet?

About The American Cancer Society:

The American Cancer Society is a nationwide, community-based voluntary health organization that is dedicated to eliminating cancer, they help save lives by helping people stay well by preventing cancer, by detecting it early, by being there during and after a diagnosis, by finding cures through investment in ground-breaking discoveries and by rallying lawmakers and communities worldwide to join the fight.

The achievements of this organization are amazing, they have contributed to a 20% decline in cancer death rates and have helped to save 1.2 million lives. Their efforts have directly lead to a 50% drop in smoking deaths since the 1960's, contributing to a drop in overall lung cancer death rates.

The Fight Continues:

Despite their impressive accomplishments the fight continues! Some current goals include the undertaking of a historic research study called the 'Cancer Prevention Study-3 (CPS-3), the goal is to enroll at least 300,000 adults from various racial/ethnic backgrounds from across the US by the end of THIS year. They want to be sure that people facing Cancer have the help they need including a free place to stay during treatment and a ride to get there (I can't begin to stress how important those two things really are when you are facing such an emotionally, physically and spiritually draining process). In addition to the continuation of giving everyone access to quality health care, lifesaving screenings, clean air and more! The Society currently operates 31 Hope Lodge Facilities around the country, each offering a home away from home for patients and their caregivers traveling for treatment at no cost.

Where my online persona and my real one meet:

On Twitter, I am 'The Official #TwitterPartyDJ' as I'm a Twitter Party online hostess, and I'm also a music lover who shares fun tunes and audio accessories that make music sound better because music, and travel are two of my biggest passions. Online, I may be the TwitterPartyDJ, but offline I'm a lucky survivor, and I was super excited to find out two musicians I really like are joining in the fight too, check out these videos by Mary J. Blige and Josh Groban:

YOU CAN HELP:

Silence Won't Finish the Fight AGAINST Cancer:

My Take:

Will YOU take a moment against silence? You can sign up on the American Cancer Society website to join the boldest move yet in the fight against cancer and I hope you will take a moment to do so. Let's help the society with their effort to help people celebrate more birthdays. After you sign up check out the tab that reads '100 Stories of Hope'. If reading those stories don't put your day-to-day temporary worries into perspective, nothing will. Silence never helps anything, let's make noise, let's give this issue a voice online, talking about it raises awareness and raising awareness is the way to get closer to a cure!

Just like I took the StrongMoms Empower pledge, and shared with you recently about #MoonWalkNYC, I have also taken the pledge to help the American Cancer Society to make NOISE to finish the fight against cancer and I hope you will too!

Sixty years ago, 1 out 3 people diagnosed with Cancer survived. Today, thanks in part to the work of the American Cancer Society, 2 out of 3 will survive. Let's make it 3 out of 3!

How has Cancer or the American Cancer Society affected your life Butterfly? Please share your story. Together we can add 100 more stories of hope!

˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙

FTC Disclosure: This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of the American Cancer Society. All stories and opinions are 100% my own. I am a survivor and it's important to me personally to empower others with my story!

Alison Sweeney (@Ali_Sweeney) 'the star attraction' #Book Signing Event @makemeaningUSA cc @GabrielasNYC #thestarattractionmamarazzi

noreply@blogger.com (Tracy Iglesias) — Thu, 16 May 2013 01:18:00 +0000

Alison Sweeney at 'the star attraction' book signing event at the Make Meaning Store in New York City

I have a special (Not Entirely Wordless), Wordless Wednesday Edition this week! I just got back from the City from a super fun book signing and thought I'd share my photos with you!

It's no shocker I'm a Soap Opera Fan (I'm pretty sure the General Hospital Blogger Campaign, and my recent posts on behalf of All My Children and One Life to Live coming back online were a huge tip off), and today I got the chance to attend a Book Signing Event for Alison Sweeney's new book 'the star attraction'.

Alison Sweeney has portrayed the character 'Sami Brady' since she was 16 years old on the NBC hit daytime drama Days of our Lives, and is also the host of NBC's reality series The Biggest Loser. She is also the Author of 'The Mommy Diet' and she has penned another book titled 'the star attraction'.

The new book 'the star attraction' was released yesterday by Hyperion Books, and is about a Hollywood Publicist who scores her PR firm's most important actor client, and after a steamy make out session in a restaurant alley with her big name client, lines start to blur and one woman's daytime soap comes to life.

Sounds 'Tres Steamy' to me and I can't wait to read it! I'm thinking a day at the beach, a pina colada, me and this book have a date soon!

Here are some more pictures from the Book Signing Today:

Left: Denise Albert, Center: Actress/Author Alison Sweeney, Right: Melissa Musen Gerstein, at 'the star attraction' book signing MAMARAZZI event at the Make Meaning Store in New York City

Left: Actress/Author Alison Sweeney, Right: Melissa Musen Gerstein, at 'the star attraction' book signing MAMARAZZI event at the Make Meaning Store in New York City

Left: Mama Butterfly, Right: Actress/Author Alison Sweeney, at 'the star attraction' book signing MAMARAZZI event at the Make Meaning Store in New York City

Left: It's ME! Ascending Butterfly, Right: Actress/Author Alison Sweeney, at 'the star attraction' book signing MAMARAZZI event at the Make Meaning Store in New York City

My Take:

The Moms always take the time to really put thought into their events, the lunch was catered by Gabriela's Restaurant in New York City who put out a wonderful spread, and the Make Meaning Store where the event was held is a space in New York City where you can do crafts (and there is even a 'Wine' night, so I definitely need to go back there and create something fun and kick back with a glass of wine!).

In addition to the lunch and book signing where we got to meet Alison, she also answered questions from the audience and spoke about the difficulties of the work/life balance, and how important it is to truly love what you do. When you love what you do and are excited by it, your children will feel that. You do need to be professionally fulfilled, but if it's not at something you love doing it makes staying energetic for them AND for you, that much harder!

Mama Butterfly asked Alison about her weight struggles and how it was handled by the producers of Days of Our Lives, and Alison said that the Producers were always behind her, but she did read negative comments throughout the years, and that brought me right back to the Strong Moms Empowerment Summit and how important it is not just for press (print or digital) but for all moms to be supportive of each other! Alison was super down to earth and it was a pleasure meeting her! As Mama Butterfly is the one who got me hooked on 'Soaps' on my very first sick day from school as a pre-teen, it was only fitting somehow that we attended this event together!

I will post a full review of the book once I have read it (and I'll try to reach out to publisher and see if they'd like to host a giveaway in an upcoming Ascending Butterfly Book Club, hopefully for the summer as this looks like a great summer read!). I will also create a Pinterest Board for this event on Ascending Butterfly's Pinterest Page!

Here is the video from the Questions and Answers Session:

Video credit: Fredy Mfuko, Mission 101 Media

You can nab the book at a great price below:

What are you reading right now Butterfly?

˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙

FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a Sponsored Post. No monetary compensation has been received to share our recap coverage of this event. A meet and greet and signed book were provided for editorial consideration, however all opinions are 100% my own! The book banner is an affiliate link.

{#Beauty Review} My daytime/night-time #skincare one-two punch! @PURattitude + #RadiantwithAVEENO #SleepoverInfluenster

noreply@blogger.com (Tracy Iglesias) — Wed, 15 May 2013 02:06:00 +0000

I've been using a skincare regimen that's been really showing positive results for me and I just had to share it with you!

I'm a big fan of serums and have been using PUR Attitude's 'Fountain of Youth' Serum during the day and in the evening after removing makeup I have been using Aveeno's Positively Radiant Intensive Night Cream and I can tell you this combination has been a major one/two punch for my skin, they have been doing so much for my skin that even family and friends have noticed a difference, and what I love is how quickly I noticed the difference using them.

PUR Attitude Fountain of Youth Serum

By Day: About PUR Attitude 'Fountain of Youth Serum':

This non-toxic, anti-aging serum combines peptide science with an exclusive blend of Hyaluronix technology to visibly increase the collagen and elastin matrix for firmer skin and less visible wrinkles. It's dubbed as a Botox alternative and much like the Fountain of Youth of Lore, is said to be able to 'turn back the hands of time'!

Dramatic Results Include:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - a 754% Increase in skin oxygenation

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - a 128% Boost in collagen

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - a 90% Increase in skin hydration

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - an 85% Increase in cell renewal

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - a 56% Reduction in the appearance of wrinkles

A 1 fl oz bottle is equal to a 6 to 8 week supply! (I am so happy I got a chance to meet the team behind this fantastic brand at Beauty Press Spotlight Day last year, you can see our original coverage of it HERE)

Aveeno Active Naturals Intensive Night Cream + Sleep Mask in Influenster Box!

By Night: About AVEENO Positively Radiant Intensive Night Cream:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Brightens and evens skin tone

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Reduces skin dullness and improves luminosity

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Helps banish Brown Spots

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Proven concentration of Active Naturals Total Soy Complex boosted with tone-evening vitamin B3

My Take:

I normally like to let each product have it's own day in the sun and feature them seperately, but because they have worked so well for me using them daily in tandem, I had to share them with you together. The day serum isn't cheap at $90 for the 1 fl oz, but for me price isn't nearly as important as efficacy is. This product works, and I noticed a difference immediately, and on the few days that I don't use it, I notice it and that says alot because I'm using quality cosmetics. So if on a day I don't use the serum I can still notice a difference made up, then that's proof in the pudding it's doing what it says it does! What I love is that a very little goes a long way with this. My skin is oil/acne prone and this did not clog my pores and just makes my skin feel incredible and the firming properties are really noticeable!

As you guys know I have been testing Aveeno Active Naturals before receiving this wonderful bundle of love from Influenster (which included a sleep mask, how cute is that?), you can read HERE for our previous coverage of the line, but I can tell you that despite using such a phenomenal serum by day, after I wash off my makeup when I go to put my Aveeno Active Naturals Intensive Night Cream on, my skin literally drinks it in! I love the scent and even make sure to put it on my neck and decolletage at night too! It makes my face feel softer and smoother and in a very short time I noticed a difference in brown spots and my skin's luminosity. I have a lot of brown spots and acne scars which I normally cover up with makeup if I get enough time before running out the door in the morning. With this night cream I actually feel like I'm addressing the problem in a way that makes a more permanent difference than makeup can alone. And at $16.99 for the 17 oz jar this one is definitely a steal!

These are both working very well as a skin 'tag team' of sorts! And considering my skin is oily/acne prone, I love that neither one clog my pores, nor do they make my skin feel greasy in any way. On days where time is crazy and I forget to use either one I do see a difference and it's a great reminder to stick to this effective skin care routine!

Have you tried Fountain of Youth/PUR Attitude or Aveeno Products? Share Your Experiences with us. What is your daily skincare ritual Butterfly?

˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙

FTC Disclosure: Ascending Butterfly was provided product samples of both products for editorial consideration, however all opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own. We share products that we feel will benefit our readers and blog using all Ethical Blogger Standards and Guidelines. You can also check out our Full Disclosure Policy for more information.

Motivation Monday: The Mother's Day + Money Isn't Everything + Winner Edition!

noreply@blogger.com (Tracy Iglesias) — Tue, 14 May 2013 00:02:00 +0000

Yesterday we posted about the the StrongMoms Pledge and a recap of the StrongMoms Empowerment Summit in New York City, if you missed that post, or would still like to take the pledge, click HERE. I hope you do take the pledge, you don't have to be a mom to vow not to bash other moms and always be supportive! As adults this pledge is an example that shows younger people how important it is to be supportive of one another and NOT bully each other both on or offline, let's set the example! We all do the same things in very different ways sometimes, that doesn't make it bad or good, wrong or right, let's embrace what makes everyone unique and be more supportive of each other! I hope all our mom readers had a fantastic day. And for those whose moms are now in heaven, know that they were with you yesterday! And if you saw a butterfly on your path, it was someone who has passed away saying hello to you!
We also announced the winner of our $100 Wilson's Leather Gift Card Giveaway, you can click HERE to go straight to the rafflecopter widget and check it out, the winner was Katie R. who was entry #3394. I am sure she is going to find something that she loves at Wilsons Leather! You guys did a great job, we got just under 3,900 entries and after deleting those did not follow the rules (like not being a GFC follower or just leaving the rafflecopter blank) we ended with a total of 3,563 entries, which is the biggest turnout to date, and I got a lot of emails telling me just how much you guys loved that jacket! I love that Wilson's always provides gift cards so YOU can select your choice of item (which is also great for our male readers who don't want handbags!) :)
And because it's Monday and we can all use some Motivation, or if anything at least a good chuckle, here is some Monday Motivation for you:

Seriously though, if your money is getting you down......LOL

˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙

FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a Sponsored Post.

Happy Mother's Day! Have You Taken The StrongMoms® Pledge Yet? {#Photos and recap of StrongMoms® Empowerment Summit in New York City} #strongmomsempower

noreply@blogger.com (Tracy Iglesias) — Sun, 12 May 2013 11:48:00 +0000

Display Signage at StrongMoms Empowerment Summit in New York City

When a survey leads to a summit you have to figure it must be pretty powerful! The National Motherhood Decisions Survey which was conducted by Mom Central and Similac found that 95% of moms feel negatively judged on their parenting decisions. The online survey included responses from over 1,100 moms with at least one child under 5 years of age and found that moms feel most judged on decisions related to parenting approaches, work, as well as infant feeding. Surprisingly, moms that completed this survey felt equally judged for being 'too strict' and equally judged for 'spoiling' their kids! (Sadly, this judgment goes beyond moms and mom bloggers, it's occurs with all genres/styles!)

Display Signage at StrongMoms Empowerment Summit in New York City

The survey results and the issue of 'mom-judging' was the focus of the May 7th, 2013 StrongMoms® Empowerment Summit in New York City, hosted by The MOMS and presenting Sponsor Similac. The goal of the Summit was to heighten awareness of the issue and to empower moms by creating a more supportive and less judgmental environment, both on and offline. A panel of influential moms shared stories that included how they created their support systems and how they empower themselves and other daily.

“Similac created StrongMoms Empower^™ to encourage moms to support each other and build confidence in their decisions.” ~ Rhonda Hoffman, Division Vice President and General Manager, U.S. Pediatric Nutrition

Speakers and Panelists Display Signage at StrongMoms Empowerment Summit in NYC

Speakers and Experts on the Panel included:

Three-time Olympic Gold Medalist Kerri Walsh Jennings:

“As someone in the public eye, others have definitely judged some of my parenting choices,” said Kerri Walsh Jennings, three-time Olympic gold medalist in beach volleyball and mother of three. “But I don’t let their comments get to me. I try my hardest and make the decisions I think are the best for my family and me. I think that’s all any mom can do.”

Parenting Expert Michele Borba, Ed.D.:

“It’s not easy being a mom in today’s world,” said Michele Borba, Ed.D., expert on parenting and bullying prevention and StrongMoms Advisory Board member. “Moms face tremendous pressure to make the ‘perfect’ parenting decisions, and there’s not a one-size-fits-all approach to parenting.”

"The Kid's Doctor" Sue Hubbard, M.D.

"Anxiety plays a role in raising stressed out kids!"

Denise Albert and Melissa Musen Gerstein, The MOMS

“There’s no such thing as a ‘Mom Manual,’" said Denise Albert and Melissa Musen Gerstein of The MOMS, StrongMoms Advisory Board Members. “StrongMoms Empower has such an important message for all moms – whether you work or stay home, breastfeed or formula feed, are strict in your parenting or not – the message to support mom is universal.”

The Chatty Momma Blogger, Tonia Sanders

Tonia Sanders (wearing the red dress) blogs at http://thechattymomma.com/

Founder of ExtraordinaryMommy.com Danielle Smith

Right: Danielle Smith, (Who is wearing the Orange striped dress) is the founder of www.extraordinarymommy.com/ and one of the authors of 'Mom, Incorporated'

If you are interested in checking out Danielle's book, you can order it directly from Amazon below:

All Speakers!

Producer Dina Conte Schulz (Far Right) is with 'The Kid's Doctor Media'

Moderator, Darlene Rodriguez

Moderator, Darlene Rodriguez, is co-anchor of the award winning 'Today in New York' and she also fills in as co-anchor for the NBC 4 New York's Evening Newscasts.

My Take:

I love that the StrongMoms Empowerment Summit featured real moms sharing their real world experiences, the good, the bad and the ugly. Those moments where they didn't feel so empowered were used to help empower other moms when they got the chance and that is exactly what it's all about. I firmly believe that every experience we go through, especially the bad ones, are meant as teaching tools, they empower us to help someone else facing the same situation.

I took the Pledge:

And I hope that you will visit StrongMoms® Empower and take the pledge too! Let's stop judging each other, and help empower each other. What better gift can you give Mom, than pledging to empower ALL moms?

I won the centerpiece!

I was at the lucky seat at my table (there was a little purple sticker on my chair) and I won my table's centerpiece (which contained an Orchid, Roses and pretty Carnations!) And the (former) event planner in me must share that the venue, the Apella Event Space at Alexandria Center in New York City couldn't have been more perfect!

Happy Mother's Day Butterflies!

˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙

FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a Sponsored/Compensated Post, no monetary compensation has been received to share our event recap. All opinions are 100% my own. The banner to the book is an affiliate link. I genuinely feel the world would be a MUCH better place if we took as much time empowering one another as we do be-littling each other!

You can only hope to look this good at 90! Check out the #90thAnniversary 90th Birthday Activities with @AlexanderDollCo

noreply@blogger.com (Tracy Iglesias) — Fri, 10 May 2013 03:32:00 +0000

On April 30th, The Madame Alexander Doll Company held a 90th Anniversary (aka 90th 'Birthday) event in their NEW Mid-Town Manhattan New York City Showroom. For those in the know, the iconic doll company was headquartered originally in Harlem New York, so it was a bit weird to see them in their new location, they were such an intrinsic part of the Harlem Community for so long. (Not to mention their new offices with their proximity to Macy's Herald Square is so much more dangerous for me as it's way to tempting to go shopping after leaving their new offices now!)

21" Cissy Doll emulating a photo of Madame Alexander from a 1920's photo, wearing a beaded dress and fur shawl with a rhinestone broach. She was on display in a display case of her own, so please forgive the glare of my flash.

For those that don't know the brand history, Madame Beatrice Alexander initiated an infamous series of 'firsts' in the toy industry including:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - The first doll based on a licensed character, Scarlette O'Hara from Gone With the Wind

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - The first to bring feature Baby Dolls to market

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - The first to create dolls in honor of living people, including Queen Elizabeth, the Dionne Quints and more

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - The first full figured fashion doll, 'Cissy', with haute couture outfits (years before Barbie hit the market!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - The first to invent the 'sleep eyes' mechanism that makes dolls' eyes close

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - The first-ever line of Patriotic Dolls

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - The first to use hard plastic in doll manufacturing

Collection of Madame Alexander Dolls on display in their new midtown Manhattan New York City Headquarters

They have spent 9 decades capturing the imagination and passion of doll lovers and collectors world wide, and at 90 they couldn't look better, we can all only hope to look that good at 90! My introduction to the brand was when my Grand-Mother gave me my first Madame Alexander doll. My Grand-Mother was a nurse but one of her many passions was embroidery and sewing and she would make Bridal Dolls for Weddings, using Madame Alexander dolls and creating a replica of the bride's dress for the doll. Her handi-work was amazing, and after each one was done, I wanted them all! Everytime I get to visit or attend a Madame Alexander event, it's always a bit nostalgic and bitter-sweet for me, because I instantly think of my Grand-Mother and her late night's making Bridal Dress replicas for Madame Alexander dolls for brides (if anyone out there has one of my Grandmother's creations, I'd love to see a photo!). I only wish she would have been here to make one for me for my own wedding.

Dollie & Me Display in the reception area of their headquarters in Midtown, New York City

The famous doll company is now owned by Kahn Lucas Lancaster, Inc, a global designer and wholesaler of branded girls' dresses and fashion collections, and during the 90th Anniversary event, we got the chance to learn more about Dollie & Me, a doll lifestyle brand made by Madame Alexander and designed by Kahn Lucas. In addition to selling dolls with matching outfits for girls, they strive to empower young girls through positive and imaginative play. The 18' dolls and trendy matching girl dresses, outfits and pajamas can also be purchased seperately (in case your little princess doesn't necessarily want her little friend to match her all the time!). And for my fellow butterfly lovers there were tons of fab butterfly dollie & me outfits to choose from.

90th Anniversary Collection Dolls are limited edition and all come with a special 90th anniversary hang tag!

The New York City event included a Dylan's Candy Bar treats station:

Dylan's Candy Bar Treat Station at Madame Alexander 90th Anniversary Celebration in New York City! Notice the Dylan's Candy Bar Queen 8-inch Wendy Doll in the background? She is currently on pre-order and expected to ship September 2013!

90th Anniversary Cupcakes:

Madame Alexander Doll Company 90th Anniversary Celebration in their new midtown Manhattan New York City Headquarters attendees enjoyed 90th anniversary cupcakes

I just had to snap a shot of this Eloise at the Plaza replica that was designed for FAO Schwarz:

The Plaza Hotel Replica designed by Madame Alexander for FAO Schwarz in New York City

and a doll to take home! (A bit hard to explain why I was carrying this doll at the Fashion Events I attended later that afternoon and evening!)

Want to join Ascending Butterfly in wishing Madame Alexander a very Happy 90th Anniversary/Birthday?

Get Social:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 'Like' Alexander Dolls on Facebook

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow @AlexanderDollCo on Twitter

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - You can also become Pin friends with Madame Alexander (Official) on Pinterest

What is your favorite doll Butterfly?

˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙

FTC Dislcosure: This is NOT a sponsored post, no compensation has been received to share our event recap coverage. We were given Dylan's Candy Treats, Cupcakes and a gift bag!

Wordless Wednesday: Butterfly Silent Edition!

noreply@blogger.com (Tracy Iglesias) — Thu, 09 May 2013 00:56:00 +0000

˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙

FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a sponsored post. Shhh.....it's Wordless Wednesday!

Wanna Power Walk an Overnight Marathon in Your Bra? For Real! Let's Do it! #MoonWalkNYC

noreply@blogger.com (Tracy Iglesias) — Wed, 08 May 2013 02:55:00 +0000

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post from One2One Network and Walk the Walk. All Opinions Expressed in this post are 100% my own!

I wasn't around for the Feminist 'Ban the Bra' Movement, but awhile back there was a big controversy in New York City when Men were allowed to go Topless on local beaches but women not only could not go Topless, they would be fined for it. So when I found out about an event that is actually encouraging women to 'Power-Walk' in their bras, I just had to share (and find out more! Color me Intrigued! Time for my Rebel Yell!).

Participants with hands held high wearing decorated bras at Walk the Walk's Moon Walk Marathon

About/History of MoonWalk:

Walk the Walk was formed 17 years ago when a handful of women Power Walked the New York City Marathon in their bras to raise money and awareness for Breast Cancer. What started off as a one time fundraising event grew into a multi-million dollar charity, that to date has raised over $126M for Breast Cancer causes and has engaged over 300,000 participants.

It all began with founder of Walk the Walk, Nina Barough, who after only two months since her adventure at the New York City Marathon, found out in January 1997 that she herself had Breast Cancer. A very aggressive tumor (which is believed she had for three years), turned her world upside down and her treatment included a mastectomy, followed by radiation therapy, and a two year course of Zoladex Injections and Tamoxifen (a drug that has a few side effects of it's own). In 1998 Walk the Walk, became an official charity that not only promotes a healthy and fit lifestyle, but also raises money for breast cancer causes.

Walk the Walk is a grant making charity who has held MoonWalk events in London and Edinburgh as well as SunWalks in Newcastle, Bristol and Southampton.

And amazingly enough the MoonWalk officially comes full circle this year! The inaugural event in America is being held in New York City where it all began for Founder Nina Barough!

Balloons Being Released during MoonWalk Marathon

WHEN AND WHERE/HOW DO I SIGN UP:

Ready to decorate your bra and get started? I thought so! Here are the deets:

MoonWalk NYC presented by Empire BlueCross BlueShield will take place on July 20, 2013 at Randall's Island in New York City. An estimated 8,000 participants will join in an opening ceremony celebration at Randall's Island, walkers will then depart weaving through Manhattan and passing some of the City's most iconic landmarks lit up brightly at night!

There are two courses to ensure that everyone can participate regardless of their fitness levels or abilities, there will be a 'Half Moon' (13.1 Miles) and a 'Full Moon' (26.3) Miles.

Both Women AND Men are welcome to participate!

They are hoping to raise $2 Million dollars in ONE night, the bulk of which will be granted to Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center to help support the Breast Examination Center in Harlem, which is one of the first FREE screening facilities for Breast Cancer in the country. 80% of patients are un-insured, and this center not only provides them free screenings, but support and guidance as well. (You may remember we mentioned the center last year as well!)

Not only do they offer a half and full marathon, they also need volunteers, so if you are not up for running or walking, consider volunteering a few hours of your time to make a huge difference for an incredible cause, let's face it, it will be the most unique, rewarding and fun volunteer experience you will ever have!

I am going to check with my doctors and see if they will clear me for this, if I do opt to run I will form a team so if you want to join me you will be able to do so! But if you can't wait for me and decide to form your own team or want help in finding other Ascending Butterfly readers who will be there, please post your comments here! Let us know your team name if you form a team before I do, and a way to contact you if others wish to join your team. You may want to meet in advance to train with your team, or spend an evening decorating coordinated bras to show your team pride! I'm behind you all the way!

Want a sneak peek of what to expect? Of course you do, check it out here:

Who says Breast Cancer Awareness efforts should only happen in October? This is NOT your mama's breast cancer walk! Be sure to share this post on your social media sites butterflies, the more the merrier, the more awareness raised the more lives we can save.

˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙

FTC Disclosure: This is a sponsored post from One2One Network and Walk the Walk. All Opinions Expressed in this post are 100% my own!

Motivation Monday: 'A Good Life' Edition!

noreply@blogger.com (Tracy Iglesias) — Tue, 07 May 2013 00:42:00 +0000

Sometimes we just need a little butterfly to remind us that we really do have a Good Life, and we just need to celebrate it!

Happy Motivation Monday Butterflies, let your wings take flight this week!

˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙

FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a sponsored post.

Weekly Moment of #Gratitude + Active #Giveaway: Happy Cinco de Mayo Edition!

noreply@blogger.com (Tracy Iglesias) — Mon, 06 May 2013 01:58:00 +0000

What I am grateful for:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Girl Time! - I got to spend some time after an event hanging out with one of my favorite bloggy buddies, Milena from beyourbestmom.com, she tagged me on a great post she wrote called the '10 Things I learned this week'. We spent time hanging out at a pub that I had heard the name of, but had never visited, Pig 'N' Whistle (36th Street in New York City). I highly recommend the Calamari there, and I'm pretty picky about my Fried Calamari! It's definitely enough to share! It's actually not far from Macy's, so if you are shopping and want to wet your whistle, I'd definitely recommend them. I get to hang out with such amazing New York City Bloggers, but mostly at events, which means we don't always get a chance to just have girl talk and really connect, so I'm super grateful that Milena and I got to take a moment that wasn't event related to break bread and just talk! (Well it was somewhat event related, because we hung out after an event, that I will recap here soon!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Veg Time! - I spent some downtime catching up on movies I hadn't seen yet on cable, totally dis-connected and just watching some Movies, just what the doctor ordered!

I have been keeping my own daily list of things I am grateful for and taking time to acknowledge my blessings daily. A bit of concentrated focus on what you do have, instead of on what you lack or need, can make a huge shift in your life!

What are YOU most grateful for today Butterfly?

˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙

What are you grateful for today? I'd love for you to write in and share what you are grateful for this week. The more you say it, the more you speak it, and the more you live in gratitude, the more you will find reasons to be grateful for, and the more reasons that the universe will send you to be grateful for. So join me on this journey of gratitude and inspiration. And you can post here daily (even though my list will be posted weekly).

Remember, attitude really does determine altitude.

It is OK to *Re-Tweet* the link to this post and You can find me on Twitter here (@Tracy_Iglesias) Twitter love: re*tweet by copying and pasting the following into your update field at Twitter:

OK to RT: @Tracy_Iglesias This Week's 'Moment of Gratitude' and Active Giveaways! - http://tiny.cc/n4Thx

˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙

Active Giveaway!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Just in time to get my butterflies ready for swimsuit season, this month's Ascending Butterfly Book Club title is The Fast Metabolism Diet by Haylie Pomroy, don't forget to enter, you've got to be in it to win it!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Entries are currently being processed, and we hope to announce a winner soon for the $100 Wilsons Leather Gift Card Giveaway.

˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙

Gratitude Journal Reco:

For those of you who are interested in keeping a gratitude journal this year, here is my recommendation and where to purchase it (I love that it gives you writing prompts for when you feel stuck on what to say!):

Make this Your Best Day ever, Bless and Be Blessed!

˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙

FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a sponsored post, all opinions are 100% my own. Journal Recommendation uses an Amazon Affiliate Link. Questions about our Disclosure? Please visit: http://www.ascendingbutterfly.com/p/disclosure-policy.html

Best Buy Wants to Help You Capture and Store Your Memorable Moments at a Price That WON'T Break the Bank!

noreply@blogger.com (Tracy Iglesias) — Sun, 05 May 2013 03:08:00 +0000

As many of you have already guessed from my recent posts both here and across my Social Media sites, I am on the hunt for a new Digital Camera. Don't get me wrong, my first 'real' Digital Camera is an Olympus that I love, love, love, it's compact, sturdy (over the years it has withstood quite a few steep falls and is still ticking), and it takes way better pictures than any mobile device I've tried.

But much like my blog has evolved throughout the years, so have my photography skills and it's time to make the big (price-wise) and scary leap of upgrading to a DSLR, and I have my choices narrowed down based on recommendations from friends, family, consumer reviews and other bloggers I have queried.

Instagram pictures from events will always have their place to share information when I am at an event or conference and don't have time or access for a full post. But to me nothing, and I mean nothing, beats the optical quality of a picture taken from a camera. Very few smart phone or smart device photos can actually rival those of a good quality camera.

Not to mention, those important memories are ones that you will want to share and even enlarge and frame, and very few smart phone photos are of sufficient optical quality to be able to enlarge them without them becoming blurry, pixelated and for all intensive purposes, useless.

I have been doing my research and I've narrowed down my choices to either the Canon - EOS Rebel T5i pictured below:

or the Nikon - D3200 24.2-Megapixel Digital SLR Camera pictured below:

I hear great things about both cameras, If you have either one, please post a comment and let us know what you think!

As an 'April Baby' Spring is my season, my Spring Memories Season, first my birthday in April, Mother's Day in May, and in June there are June Weddings to attend, Graduation Ceremonies to attend and Father's Day too and let's not even get started on summer vacations! My favorite take home from any vacation is my photos!

With Mother's Day swiftly approaching, many people often wonder what to get Mom, whether it's your mom you are shopping for, or for men that are shopping for their wives & the mother of their children. I will stop and tell you first and foremost what NOT to get mom, do NOT get mom a new household cleaning appliance for Mother's Day. That is not a gift for HER. Get her something that she will cherish and treasure for always.

I for one am incredibly tech oriented, so for me a new DSLR would get my heart racing, but there are ways to get a tech friendly gift for those who are not necessarily tech oriented, a Digital Photo Frame is a great gift for mom (a new DSLR + a Digital Photo Frame would be even better, just saying!), it's a great way to store treasured family memories. (Extra Brownie Points for pre-loading it with her favorite photos and setting it up for her!). And with Best Buy offering Digital Photo Frames less than $50, you can get the moms in your life a meaningful gift that doesn't break the bank!

And butterflies if you think that rocks, what until you find out what else Best Buy has in store for YOU! For a limited time you can get an ADDITIONAL 25% off select digital photo frames with a special Friends & Family Coupon Offer! You can either press the word coupon in the previous sentence, or go directly to www.bestbuy.com and when you purchase a Digital Photo Frame with the SKUs: 2915399, 2915371, 6331239, 3757047, and 3757065, to redeem coupon, enter the code MEMORYMAKER at check out to see an additional 25% savings off the already low price! (Who loves you butterfly?) And if you didn't read our helpful post on Best Buy and Recycling, remember you can trade in your old camera for a Best Buy Gift Card, which you should of course put towards a special Mother's Day Gift for your Mom!

With a low price guarantee, free shipping on cameras and a limited time additional 25% savings on Digital Photo Frames, Best Buy has got you covered for Mother's Day, Father's Day, Graduation, Summer Travel and BEYOND!

So Butterfly, what are you getting for your mom this Mother's Day?

˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙

FTC: Disclosure: This is a Sponsored Post, compensation has been received in the form of a Best Buy Gift Card and/or the products/services referenced have been provided at a reduced price or for free. I am a member of Best Buy's Wolf Blogger Blogging Campaign. All opinions are 100% my own.

Ascending Butterfly May Monthly #Book Club Title: Review and #Giveaway of The Fast Metabolism Diet #FastMetabolismDiet

noreply@blogger.com (Tracy Iglesias) — Fri, 03 May 2013 01:42:00 +0000

This is a sponsored post/Giveaway for SheSpeaks/Fast Metabolism Diet (All opinions are my own):

I spent 2010 and 2011 on a series of Lifestyle Changes that resulted in very healthy weight loss overtime. Getting more excercise and recipe substitions had resulted in the loss of 3 dress sizes and way more energy. I was thrilled!

Then 2012 happened. I spent the bulk of the year at three different hospitals for long term stays. Which meant being sick to my stomach and not wanting to eat due to the medications and surgeries, and a ton of time in a hospital bed which meant no excercise. To say last year threw me off my game is an understatement. Considering I was told I may not make it, I have much to be grateful for. Every few months it's back to the hospital for testing and I still can't go back to a full workout routine yet.

With summer coming I want to have tons of energy because after a year in the hospital, I plan to go out everyday and take full advantage of the sun this summer! I knew I needed to find a way to get my metabolism going knowing full well that I can't yet go back to the workout routine I was enjoying in 2010 and 2011 (which included Zumba and Yoga).

I had actually seen the book on TV before I was invited to participate in this campaign and it had caught my eye. The one thing I've learned through the years is that Lifestyle Changes, (no matter what they are for, to break bad habits, learn new ones, incorporate meditation into your day), have to be logical and not too difficult to incorporate to be successful. From what I had seen this looked easy to do, and seemed to make sense for me with my many restrictions.

I am going to be totally honest, I tried this out and didn't follow it to the letter, but it's OK because I knew I probably wouldn't. My schedule is erratic and because of my varied obligations, it's ever changing. Events in NYC come with cocktails, food, appetizers and all kind of things that are not always what I was meant to be eating that day. And worse still meetings all day and events most evenings including weekends leave very little time for much of a workout routine anyway.

The Science behind The Fast Metabolism Diet is explained graphically on their website and it's worth taking a look at so you can get an idea of 'the HOW' behind the diet. As a single girl in the city I didn't have the problem of worrying about other people in the home not liking the meals, it was just me I had to worry about. Is that how I eat everyday? NO. So it was hard to get adjusted to. For me the biggest problem was the cutting back of refined sugars, I love my chocolate and my Ice Cream and I am NOT going to cut them completely out of my life.

I was excited to discover that some of the foods I already love like Lobster, Shrimp, Avocados, Cashews, Seaweed (Sushi anyone?), stimulate the release of fat-burning T4 and T3 hormones which create a thermogenic effect in the body, melting those hard fat stores and allowing them to be liquified by the Thyroid Hormones, burned for energy and released from the body. This burn boosts your metabolism!

I know what you are thinking by now, 'So Butterfly, Did it WORK?'. Yes it did. I did not lose 20 pounds, but I have a firm policy of not gauging my weight loss with the scale, I lost one dress size so far, and I have maintained that size, my underwear/lingerie are all so loose I have to get new stuff in a size down, and I am happy with that progress. I am not following it to the letter, but with the principles it outlines, and with me slowly but surely being able to become progressively more active I am sure I will be back to where I was in 2011 in no time.

We are happy to make this our first title for the return of the Book Club, and with the advent of swimsuit season upon us, I am happy to recommend this program as the kick start to a series of full Lifestyle changes that will help you get ready to put your best face forward this summer!

Get Social With It:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Like Author Haylie Pomroy on Facebook
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow @hayliepomroy on Twitter

WIN IT:

Our friends at She Speaks and The Fast Metabolism Diet want one lucky Ascending Butterfly reader to have the chance to kickstart and rev up their metabolism too!

Enter using the Rafflecopter Widget below:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙

FTC Disclosure: This is a Sponsored Post for She Speaks/Fast Metabolism Diet. I received compensation and a complimentary copy of the book, the sponsor is also fulfilling to the giveaway winner. All opinions are 100% my own.

{Not So} Wordless Wednesday: @GetGorgEvents - Getting Gorgeous 2013 in New York City! #GettingGorgeous

noreply@blogger.com (Tracy Iglesias) — Thu, 02 May 2013 00:39:00 +0000

I have been a super busy butterfly so keeping up with my event recaps has been a challenge lately, but I wanted to be sure to share highlights with you on one of my favorite annual events, Getting Gorgeous (@GetGorgEvents on Twitter) hosted by Audrey McClellan (@AudreyMcClellan on twitter) and Vera Sweeney (@VeraSweeney on twitter), the event offers attendees the opportunity to truly interact with a wide variety of brands in a way that is fun, stress free and interactive, because the event is held in sessions, it allows for a much easier flow of traffic than conferences afford, which makes it easy and pleasant to be able to have an interaction of more than a split second with the brands in attendance.

This year Getting Gorgeous was held in conjunction with CVS Beauty Club (@CVSBeautyClub on Twitter) as the title sponsor and CVS really pulled out all the stops, like a BB and CC Cream skin match station, hair styling, manicures, and a 'spin the wheel' for fun prizes. I won my choice of hair appliance and I selected the infiniti Pro by Conair 1875 Watt Salon Performance AC Motor Styling Tool. Since I Blow Dry my hair pretty much daily, this is definitely going to come in handy.

Ascending Butterfly holds up Olay Total Effects 7 in one CC Cream Tone Correcting with Broad Spectrum SPF 15

I also took a moment to visit the BB/CC Cream Matching station. Unfortunately, the artist wasn't able to find a good match for me with the Garnier BB Cream (actually I am glad that I tried it that way, it would have been a lot more expensive for me try them out for myself and find out that I couldn't find a true shade match), but I did find a Shade Match with the Olay CC Cream. I love the Olay CC Cream but because I have a ton of Acne Scarring, this gives me a light coverage so I still need some kind of concealer. But I did learn that CC Cream focuses a bit more on concealing pigmentation, redness, fine lines and wrinkles and is a bit more nourishing for the skin. I was glad to try the matching station because I wouldn't have thought that the light to medium would have been my shade and it was. (Since I know that may change when I get more sun, I can still use this and then put a touch of bronzing powder over it to match my skin once I get more sun).

I also had the chance to get my hair styled by Tovah Avigail (@TovahAvigail on Twitter), she blew out my hair which was great because I didn't have a chance to do it that morning before I left the house to catch my train into the city! Thanks Tovah!

The only thing I skipped from this station was the manicure because my mani from the Agadir International Argan Oil event was still going strong (as is my Henna Tattoo Butterfly from that event!). I was tempted to wipe mine off and let them give me a darker color, but I didn't.

Ascending Butterfly enjoying a Light Mojito from the BACARDÍ Classic Cocktails Light collection

BACARDI Light Strawberry Daiquiri

After all that primping and pampering it was a good time for a cocktail break, and since Bacardi was the Beverage Sponsor this year, I was pretty excited about saying hello. As a Latina, specifically 'Puertoriqueña', I have had the chance to visit the Bacardi Rum Bottling Plant in Catano Puerto Rico (if you are visiting you MUST take that tour!), and I was surprised to get the opportunity to sample Bacardi Classic Cocktails Light which is part of their new Low Calorie, Ready-to-Serve Line. The new Light Strawberry Daiquiri joins the Light Mojito and Light Piña Colada, at less than 95 calories for a four ounce serving, and as it's ready to serve, you have no prep time, making this perfect for your upcoming summer gatherings! They were all delicious and refreshing!

While I didn't stop to take photos with the cute backsplash (there were a few folks with little ones around this station when I stopped off), I did enjoy learning about Dial Kids New Body + Hair Wash (@Dial on Twitter) and I of course had to grab a rubber ducky while I was there because let's face it, who can resist a Rubber Ducky right? I know my niece is going to nab the 'watery melon' scent but I'm tempted to keep 'Peachy Clean' for myself because it's such a perfect subtle summer scent!

I got a super cute purple scarf from Thyme Maternity, they offer stylish fashions for expecting and new moms! I'm not yet a mom but they have styles that I would rock and I'm not even a mom!

Check out this look:

Super cute right? BTW Butterflies, if you are not already following them on Facebook you may want to go do so now as they are having a Mother's Day Sweepstakes to win 1 of 2 Thyme Maternity Shopping Sprees Worth $500!

After visiting with Thyme I visited the Tide Station where I took a Tide #Selfie picture:

My #TideDownySelfie says: 'I Rock My Wardrobe by always having the perfect accessories' I was rocking my Kooba Handbag that day!

There was a Tide Pod sample in our gift bags! As well as Downy Scent Booster and a Downy Infusions Fabric Softener in a scent that I have not yet tried, I will definitely share more about it once I try it out.

General Motors (@GM @DistrictDrive on twitter) was also in attendance and they were hosting a contest to see how fast someone could pack items into a vehicle for a chance to win a loaner car for one week.

New Balance also showed some of their newest styles (sadly none were in the bags!) but they did have a photo backsplash with Heidi Klum for attendees to take pictures. Like the Dial Booth there was a bit of a wait so I opted to keep going so I wouldn't miss anyone!

Then I got the chance to visit one of my favorite stations of the day, Foster Grant and try on Sunglasses! And I found a pair that are making me consider switching back to contacts so I can rock these all summer long:

Ascending Butterfly striking a pose with her Foster Grant Sunglasses!

I call this my 'men in black' photo, think they will add me on as an Agent in the next sequel? (The Black Suit I am wearing is by Igigi and so is the red blouse underneath!)

I think next year the Getting Gorgeous team is going to have to partner with a vacation brand, because this year the sponsor brands were all making us think of summer vacations!

I got to get sunAWARE with the folks at Coolibar who make clothing and hats that have UVA/UVB Sun Protection built into the fibers of the clothes! I was lucky that there was no one there when I up to them so I was able to ham it up and take some fun photos with Elvis!

Ascending Butterfly sporting a Lei and hamming it up with Elvis at the Coolibar Station at Getting Gorgeous 2013 (see the rep from the GM booth behind me? He was watching me ham it up!)

Here is the long shot:

Ascending Butterfly sporting a Lei and hamming it up with Elvis at the Coolibar Station at Getting Gorgeous 2013 (Black Suit I am wearing and red shirt under it is by IGIGI)

I found some super cute swimsuit cover ups and fun summer fashions at the Coolibar station. Like Coolibar I take sun protection seriously, I lost my Great-Aunt who is also my Godmother to Skin Cancer, so I take Sun Protection very seriously! I love that not only can you protect yourself with sunscreen creams for your skin, you can also wear clothes with the sun protection built in!

Sunglasses and Summer Fashions definitely have awakened in me a deep 'wanderlust' so I'm thinking it's time to take a long weekend and go exploring!

There was also a very unique station called Love Jac Cards, they make photo mounted greeting cards, limited edition handcrafted cards, custom designed occasion cards and even a card of the month club. I'm a huge stationery buff, I always have been, and have had penpals since childhood, so I was super excited to meet Jac Cards and even gave them a suggestion to add some butterfly designs to their line, I'll definitely keep you all posted when that does happen! We got to select our own card and I can tell you it was a difficult choice because I love them all! My penpals have often told me I should design cards, and this brand certainly made me think more about that idea!

There were quite a few amazing Fashion Brands in attendance, all with different and specific niches, and the third Fashion brand I met was Thread & Butter who specialize in Plus Size Fashions! As a curvy girl, even at my absolute ideal weight I have always had curves, which I'm sure my fellow curvies will understand when I say the hardest thing to shop for is jeans and pants when you are curvy, I have a small waist but wider hips and jeans tend to gap at the back because they are too big from the waistband. And I don't know about you, but this curvy girl is sick of florals and un-sexy and un-trendy fashion, Thread & Butter is here to help address just that and I got to check out their trendy plus fashions first hand during Getting Gorgeous, and this is one of the reasons that Getting Gorgeous is a *MUST* attend event for me. I love meeting brands that are entirely new to me, as well as getting time with Brands that are already trusted household names. I invited Thread & Butter to come back and work with us directly so stay tuned, I hope to feature them again here soon!

Another brand that was new to me was Haute Tags, who make Jewelry that was born out of a love for Social Media and the connections made on sites like Twitter, you can have tags made with your twitter handle or a favorite hashtag. I'm thinking @Ascending1 would make a fantastic Haute Tag, don't you? You can have them custom made and they come with or without Swarovski Crystals. As for me, YES Please with Crystals! or Maybe I should have the hashtag '#TwitterPartyDJ' done, hmmm I wonder if you have can have the tag made double-sided? I'm going to have to look into that!

Stokke was at Getting Gorgeous 2013 and they showed their super cute Strollers (I love The Ultimate Connection Stroller) and the ones they brought for display were all in an aweseom stylish Plum color!) and it's so funny that for the past week while attending various events, I've spotted the Stokke Stroller's in the City. I love that since it raises up the child closer to you (and you can adjust the height) you are able to interact with your baby much easier.

And with Allergy Season upon us, I was happy to see Puffs in attendance, in fact my box is already on my night side table!

Left to Right: Tracy of Ascending Butterfly, (I'm wearing an animal print trenchcoat by Wilsons Leather and a black suit by IGIGI), Patty of Enjoying this Life, Diane of philZENdia and Lisa of New York Chica hold up Harlequin Bella Andre Gift Bags

And last but not least to continue along with the 'travel' vibe that was given off by this year's Getting Gorgeous, Harlequin gave us gift bags with their Romance Title: "Bella Andre The Look of Love", myself and some of my favorite fellow New York Bloggers posed for a photo with our gift bags! You can follow the author on Twitter @bellaandre.

As always, Getting Gorgeous delivered and then some, I got to re-connect with Brands I already love, and meet great brands that were new to me, but I'm sure will become new favorites! The only thing they need next year is a vacation company, because after loading up on great fashion gear, getting new sunglasses and great summer beach or poolside reading material (not to mention having a light summer cocktail by BACARDI) all I need now is the beach resort to haul all my new goodies to!

Happy Wordless Wednesday Butterfly! Bloggers post your link as a comment here so we can visit your Wordless Wednesday Posts too!

˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙

FTC Disclosure: Getting Gorgeous is an invite only event, Gift Bags and Samples are provided at the event for editorial consideration, no monetary compensation has been received to share my event recap and all opinions are 100% my own.

Finally the perfect Argan Oil Product for Fine Hair! My Day in Morocco with @AgadirInt #moroccanspaday

noreply@blogger.com (Tracy Iglesias) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 07:10:00 +0000

Last week the Rooftop bar of the Library Hotel in New York City was transformed into a Moroccan Paradise for the Agadir International's 'Journey to Morocco with Agadir Argan Oil' event. Guests were able to indulge in Manicures, Massages, Henna Tattoos, as well as hair styling to help match each guest to the appropriate Agadir Argan Oil Product for their hair.

I was able to get a walk through of each of the products in the line, and I followed that with hair styling and a very helpful hair consultation with Carlos who asked all the right questions about my hair and my morning routine to help match me to the right products. Since I blow dry my hair daily and flat iron often, he recommended (as well as used on my hair on the spot) the Heat Shield 450 which will protect hair from high heat styling appliances like Blow Dryers and Flat irons, and because I have fine hair he also recommended the Volumizing Shampoo and Conditioner.

Stylist Carlos gave me great ideas on what to do with my hair this summer at the Agadir Argan Oil Moroccan Spa Day Event at the Library Hotel in New York City!

I will tell you that after having it used on my hair I found it to be one of the most light weight Argan Oils I've tried so far, it didn't make the scalp and the hair toward the front look greasy at all, and it also offered me true versatility, whether I choose to wear it curly or straight, my hair looked shinier and healthier, it did hold the curl well and the front of my hair which was styled straight stayed straight.

Stylist Carlos is adding the finishing touches to my hair! I am holding the Heat Shield 450 Plus Treatment.

About Agadir ™ Argan Oil Hair Treatment:

Agadir™ Argan Oil is extracted from the rare and exotic nut (cross between a walnut and almond) of the Argan tree. This wonder oil has the characteristics of being very lightweight and non-greasy. Its conditioning powers are beyond compare when combined with our fine, professional formulation. Argan oil has a low molecular weight, which instantly penetrates into the hair shaft, without weighing the hair down. Agadir™ Argan Oil Hair Treatment is left in the hair for continuous conditioning, leaving it soft, silky, manageable with a long lasting, luxurious shine.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Agadir™ Argan Oil Hair Treatment Properties:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Contains 100% Pure and Certified Argan Oil

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Repairs, softens & strengthens dry, brittle, frizzy hair

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Not oily or greasy + no buildup to make hair heavy and flat

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Reduces drying time (40-50%)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Quick absorbent, alcohol free formula

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Natural Antioxidant

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Moisturizing formula nourishes and eliminates dry, itchy, scalp

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Encourages healthier hair growth

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Great hair control and manageability

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Paraben AND Sulfate Free!

Who I am wearing: Green Jacket: Wilson's Leather, Blouse: Karen Kane Jeans: Signature by Levi Strauss & Co. Women's Curvy Skinny Jeans, Handbag: Ecco "Natal" Handbag in color 'cognac'

While I haven't had a chance to try out all the products that Carlos recommended that I got to take home, I did like the results he achieved with just the Heat Shield 450 plus Spray Treatment (that protects, repairs and shines!) and the Agadir™ Volumizing Hair Spray - Firm Hold. It helped me keep the soft, frizz free curl he added to my hair all day.

Had to capture a shot of this cute vignette I set up with the Daily Volumizing Conditioner and the Agadir Argan Oil Styling Mousse

Because I do have fine hair, he recommended the Volumizing products to help give my hair body, and still having the added benefits that Argan Oil offers the hair. They also have a blow dry round brush that actually has Argan Oil infused into bristles of the brush already, which helps to cut down styling time since the product is already infused into the brush! I have to tell you this brush totally ROCKS!

Got a blush of pink nail polish at the Mani Station plus a super cute Henna Butterfly Tattoo!

I also stopped over at the Manicure Station (they did my nails in the softest hint of pink!) and then followed that with my very first Henna Tattoo, I asked for a Henna Butterfly and couldn't be more thrilled with my Butterfly!

Later in the day the puffy top layer drops off and you are left with the Henna Tattoo on your skin that lasts about 2 weeks!

We even had the option of adding Glitter to the Henna Tattoo which I definitely said yes to! It was also nice to have the chance to eat, enjoy the view on the outside of the rooftop and catch up with my favorite New York Bloggers!

My Take:

Butterflies Agadir Argan Oil is definitely one to watch and put on your Haircare Radar! Right now they are being sold exclusively in salons, but they plan to roll out their website so that consumers may purchase the products online at their site. They did let me know that if you see it right now both online and even at Mass Market Drug Stores, the products you are seeing are more than likely fakes or even expired product which would make it less effective, so only buy these at the Salon for now until they are available for purchase directly from the Agadir International website.

I noticed that it seemed to really work well for ALL types of hair. While I was at each station I got the chance to see different people getting styled, and the products really worked well for such a diverse and wide variety of hair types.

Once I have had the opportunity to try out the entire line from A to Z on a regular basis, I will definitely report back to you with additional feedback!

Butterflies, Have you already tried Agadir Argan Oil? If so, please let us know how it is working for you!

˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙

FTC Dislcosure: This is NOT a Sponsored Post, no compensation has been received to share our feedback of the preview press launch, we were fed, pampered and given gift bags, all opinions are 100% my own!

Motivation Monday: Live Your Dreams!

noreply@blogger.com (Tracy Iglesias) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 00:59:00 +0000

Butterflies, sometimes the only one standing in your way of a major dream or accomplishment is YOURSELF. Let the doubters doubt you, Let the 'haters' hate you, but don't ever give up on your dreams! Does your dream seem un-attainable? GOOD! You are on the right track! This week challenge yourself to do ONE thing you normally would never do! (And come back and share what you accomplished this week here, so we can all encourage you and in the process motivate each other!)

˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙

FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a Sponsored Post!

Weekly Moment of #Gratitude! + Active #Giveaway + Winner Announcement!

noreply@blogger.com (Tracy Iglesias) — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 01:33:00 +0000

What I am grateful for:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - A Week of Pampering Fun! - I got transported to Morocco (for #MoroccanSpaDay check out the tweets!) and I spent a day Getting Gorgeous (at #GettingGorgeous 2013), it's been a fun week of events that will get their own recaps for sure, but they allowed me to take some time for me and reminded me that I don't do that nearly enough! I even got my first Henna Tattoo!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Simple Things! - Time spent with family and spiritual reflection is the exact fuel I needed this weekend, it will help me approach a new week and a growing list of 'to-do's' with a much more positive perspective. It's hard to have it all butterflies, and work/life balance will always be a 'rat race' but downtime and time to recharge is the only way you can really get through it all with a better balance.

I have been keeping my own daily list of things I am grateful for and taking time to acknowledge my blessings daily. A bit of concentrated focus on what you do have, instead of on what you lack or need, can make a huge shift in your life!

What are YOU most grateful for today Butterfly?

˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙

Remember, attitude really does determine altitude.

It is OK to *Re-Tweet* the link to this post and You can find me on Twitter here (@Tracy_Iglesias) Twitter love: re*tweet by copying and pasting the following into your update field at Twitter:

OK to RT: @Tracy_Iglesias This Week's 'Moment of Gratitude' and Active Giveaways! - http://tiny.cc/n4Thx

˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙

Active Giveaway!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - As you know every April is 'It's MY Birthday, But YOU Get the Gifts' time and our current giveaway is for a $100 Gift Card to Wilson's Leather which sells Leather (and non-leather for those of you that don't wear Leather) accessories, apparel, jackets, gloves and more for both men or women, if you haven't already entered, make sure you ENTER, you have to be in it to win it!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - In case you missed it, Please join me in congratulating Dawn S. who is Ascending Butterfly's We Take the Cake Giveaway Winner!

˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙

Gratitude Journal Reco:

Make this Your Best Day ever, Bless and Be Blessed!

˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙

Soap Opera Lovers REJOICE All My Children & One Life to Live are back via The Online Network (@TOLN) on Monday, April 29th!

noreply@blogger.com (Tracy Iglesias) — Sat, 27 Apr 2013 06:33:00 +0000

Butterflies, I don't know if it started for you the same way it did for me, but my first sick day when I was in Junior High School turned out to be a bonding moment and TV habit that would last for decades! I was home sick and well past my cartoon days, so Mom let me in on her favorite daytime 'me time', Soap Operas! Mama Butterfly introduced me to all the characters and patiently caught me up on story lines so I could figure out what was happening. Like many moms, she created a monster, I HAD to know what was going on! And subsequent sick days always meant me in my PJ's watching 'soaps' with mom!

When All My Children and One Life to Live were cancelled it was the shot heard around the world. Many loyal watchers considered each character 'family' and many soaps were passed down throughout the generations in families. Even those who couldn't watch their 'stories' during the day would be sure to record them so they could watch them at night. Soap Operas were favorite water cooler fodder, and the networks were definitely barraged by outraged fans.

And while it had been rumored for what seems like a very long time coming, I can indeed confirm that All My Children and One Life to Live are BACK! The shows are being brought back on The Online Network and can also be viewed on Hulu, Hulu Plus and iTunes! You can check out All My Children (AMC) on Hulu at www.hulu.com/all-my-children and One Life to Live (OLTL) on Hulu at www.hulu.com/one-life-to-live

Fans no longer have to settle for the crossover of their favorite characters on General Hospital. (And while I know I'm in the minority on this one, I didn't like the character crossovers from OLTL characters on General Hospital. I personally felt that they just didn't 'fit'.) They belong back in their home, and now they will be!

I am SUPER excited to know not only that All My Children and One Life to Live are back, but it's like they are re-invented and being re-born on the web. It's like Soap Opera's 2.0, bigger, better and hopefully built to last!

Show synopsis: All My Children revolves around the lives of the residents of fictional Pine Valley. For nearly forty years, this town has seen the trials and tribulations of its dynamic families. Now your favorite stories are back, and more dramatic than ever!

Plot outline: Since 1970, the residents of All My Children's Pine Valley, PA -- including its most famous citizen, Erica Kane (Susan Lucci) have seen their fair share of scandalous hookups, feuds, and devastating murders. Pine Valley luminaries include resident hero Ryan Lavery (Cameron Mathison), Fusion Cosmetics maven Greenlee du Pres (Rebecca Budig), perpetual troublemaker David Hayward (Vincent Irizarry), funnyman Tad Martin (Michael E. Knight), and the unforgettable romantic duo of Angie and Jesse Hubbard (Debbi Morgan and Darnell Williams).

All My Children actors include returning actors include Debbie Morgan as Dr Angie Hubbard, Julie Barr as Brooke English, Sal Stowers as Cassandra Foster, Eric Nelson as AJ Chandler, Denyse Tontz as Miranda Montgomery, Jordan Lane Price as Celia Fitzgerald, Ryan Bittle as JR Chandler, Eden Riegel as Bianca Montgomery, Cady McClain as Dixie Cooney, Ray MacDonnell as Dr. Joe Martin, David Canary as Adam Chandler, Heather Roop as Jane McIntyre, and Francesca James as Evelyn Johnson will be returning once the soap moves online.

What Luke and Laura are to General Hospital, Jesse and Angie are to All My Children! I remember where Dr. Angie Hubbard's storyline last left off, and I literally can't wait to find out what direction they are going to take her character and her storyline!

Show synopsis: One Life to Live follows the complicated lives of three main families: the wealthy Lords, the powerful Buchanans and the strong-willed Cramers. The quiet simplicity of small town living is often interrupted by the drama between them yet despite the struggles, strong family bonds keep them united.

Plot outline: The good people of Llanview, Pennsylvania, lead complicated lives. In a town of questionable marriage ethics, teenagers grow up fast and fall in love quickly. The quiet simplicity of small-town living on the Llantano River is frequently upset by an over-abundance of multiple personalities who disturb the peace. Despite the jealousy, betrayal, and occasional baby-swapping, Llanview is where the Buchanan, Lord, and Cramer families struggle to retain the strong family ties that have always united them.

One Life to Live actors include Corbin Bleu as Jeffery King as well as returning actors Erika Slezak as Victoria Lord Buchanan, Robin Strasser as Dorian Lord, Tuc Watkins as David Vickers, Robert S. Woods as Bo Buchanan, Kassie DePaiva as Blair Cramer, Jerry verDorn as Clint Buchanan, Florencia Lozano as Tea Delgado, Melissa Archer as Natalie Buchanan Banks, Hillary B. Smith as Nora Buchanan, Kelley Missal as Danielle Manning, Josh Kelly as Cutter Wentworth, and Andrew Trischitta as Jack Manning. Recurring actors include: Sean Ringgold as Shaun Evans, Shenaz Treasury as Rama Patel, and Nick Choksi as Vimal Patel.

The Buchanans are the power family of OLTL, and true fans know that Erika Slezak who portrays Victoria Lord Buchanan is a very versatile actress, she certainly plays many roles!

I got to see the premiere episodes and am sworn to secrecy, but I do have previews I can share with you!

All My Children | New Season Preview:

After a gunshot was fired five years ago, how has life in Pine Valley changed? Who will find love? Who will seek revenge? The characters you have come to love, the characters you will meet for the first time..Find out when all new daily episodes begin, Monday, April 29th!

One Life to Live | New Season Preview:

Character driven drama One Life to Live is back with all new must-see episodes. Filled with action, romance, comedy and it pushes the boundaries of entertainment by exploring cutting-edge social issues.

I just couldn't resist including this Photo of Snoop Lion helping to countdown the days until OLTL's return!

30 minute episodes will be available each weekday with a recap on Friday, and with Guest Appearances by Snoop Lion (formerly known as Snoop Dogg, notorious OLTL fan who has appeared on the show before), as well as Riff Raff and Nervo, and without the restrictions that sometimes come with daytime TV, folks this is NOT your mama's Soap Opera!

Get Social:

A fun way to get ready for Monday would be to interact with each show's Social Media Pages:

All My Children:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - If you aren't already, you can 'Like' AMC on Facebook

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Stalk, ahem I mean Follow them on Twitter (as shown above, the hashtag is #WATCHAMC)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Wanna see their pictures? Then Follow via Instagram too!

One Life to Live:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 'Like' OLTL on Facebook

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow them on Twitter (as shown above, the hashtag is #WATCHOLTL)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow via Instagram too!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - And for my Tumblr Peeps: Follow OLTL on Tumblr too

The Online Network:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow them on @TOLN on Twitter

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow them on YouTube/tolnsoaps

My Take:

Again, I have seen the first episodes but I am sworn to secrecy and cannot reveal any spoilers, but I am so happy to have both shows back on the air! This is not your Mama's Soap Opera butterflies, this is the digital age at it's finest, taking the old and adding a whole new twist to how you watch your beloved shows and now with the added availability of watching on the go, what's NOT to love?

Butterflies, on Monday after you've seen both episodes, come back here and sound off, let us know what YOU think!

˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙

FTC Disclosure: This is a Sponsored Post from One2One Network and The Online Network, however all opinions expressed herein are 100% my own. I am a long time Soap Opera fan, and a 'General Hospital Moms' Blogger.

The Official #TwitterPartyDJ Reviews the Voxx International 808 Studio Quality Headphones!

noreply@blogger.com (Tracy Iglesias) — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 01:43:00 +0000

I grew up around DJ's both family and friends, not just weekend enthusiasts, but pros that started off in clubs and many now own their own Audio Production Companies, for my family Music wasn't just entertainment it was always very much business. So when it comes to Audio Products and Accessories I'm pretty picky and I learned early on that labels, names, flash and floss didn't always mean great sound.

I love Music and feel blessed to have grown up in a family that takes it so seriously and also exposed me to such a wide variety of artists and musical genres. Their love of music and sound and what goes behind creating memorable musical moments definitely rubbed off on me, but there is always one place where I differed from the Pro's in my family. I prefer earbuds. That's definitely not a secret to long time readers, but it's still where me and my family members in the industry differ. And they spent years trying to convert me to headphones but they were never successful. I always hated how they 'crushed' my hair (remember how high 80's hair used to be right?), I have always worn eyeglasses and the headphones would press my glasses into my temples which after awhile would hurt and as I live in the Public Transportation Capital of the Planet, New York City, I always hated how headphones drew too much attention to you. To my fellow individualists, trust me when I tell you that the one place you don't want to draw too much attention to yourself is on a New York City Subway Train.

808 Studio Quality Headphones in Matte Black

So when a pair of 808 headphones arrived for editorial consideration to say I was a bit skeptical would probably be an understatement. I recently reviewed my new HP Envy Desktop computer which I absolutely love (which is awesome because I had purchased a few lemons over the last few years and was slowly losing faith in them), one of the things that stand out about my new desktop is the amazing Audio. As a long time HP owner (both at work and at home both desktop and laptop), I was never all that impressed with their Audio, until my new Envy, the Beats Audio on my new system is fantastic. Like many writers I have a tendency to write better late at night and once I get into the flow I could write until the wee hours of the morning. That means I'm up clicking away while my world is asleep and for me not to disturb anyone I always listen to music at night while on my computer or desktop with earbuds on.

Studio Quality 808 Headphones Un-boxed showing Headphones, Instruction Manual and Protective Travel Case

I've spent the past few weeks listening to music on my HP Envy Desktop Computer wearing my new 808 headphones and I've also been bringing them with me on roadtrips on weekends and I have to tell you in all the years of my family members in the Audio Industry trying to get me to switch to headphones, this time spent road testing the 808's has made me a convert!

About the 808 Studio Quality Headphones:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Advanced and Powerful 40mm Dynamic Range Audio Drivers with outstanding response and accuracy

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Soft, Comfortable earcups

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 2 Detachable Cables - round without mic and flat with mic

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - High Quality Durable Protective Travel Case

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 3 colors: Black Matte, Black High Gloss, and White High Gloss

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Compatible with iPod, iPhone and iPad

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Works with Android

Watch them in Action:

My Take:

With a street smart style, cutting-edge audio technology, and an affordable price tag, these headphones prove that style, substance and smarts can be achieved at a price point that is reachable for everyone. It brings out nuances in some songs that I don't hear when wearing other headphones/earbuds, there were songs from U2 and Sheryl Crow that I've heard over and over that sounded so much different to me with these. They blocked outside noise (like when I'm in the bus with them on, I don't hear ambulance sirens blaring in my ears and interrupting my tunes) and in the trains I can use these to block out the Garbled MTA messages (Perhaps the MTA should retain Voxx International to re-do the audio in the subway system, maybe then you'd actually be able hear to the announcements!), they also smartly help me tune out wailing infants, obnoxiously loud cell phone conversations and just immerse myself in the escape that my music collection provides me during a hectic rush hour traffic commute into the city.

Warning to the wise, turn DOWN your current audio level setting on your device before you plug these in, you won't need to have the volume anywhere as close to the setting you are using now. These deliver a rich, even consistent sound, rich bass, and definitely have style for days. I love my 808 headphones, and am excited about their upcoming On-Ear (the Drift) and In-Ear Earbuds that are set to release in 2013 in the months ahead!

I am going to have to see if our friends at Voxx International will consider joining us in our upcoming June 'Dads N Grads' annual gift buying guide with a reader giveaway, because I know you are going to LOVE these as much as I do.

808 'Gloss White' Headphones

Get Social:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Like 808 Headphones on Facebook

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow @RCA_Scoop on Twitter as well as on @Audiovox_Corp on Twitter

They post tons of fun contests, promotions and giveaways and hint, hint, there is one going on right NOW! (and don't forget to tell them on facebook or on twitter that you saw them featured on Ascending Butterfly)

Can't wait for us to offer a giveaway? (I can't say I blame you!), Amazon has them at a STEAL, and I mean that literally, you can order them NOW on Amazon by pressing the banner below:

Butterfly what is your favorite Audio Product or Audio Accessory?

˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙

FTC Disclosure: Voxx International has provided me with a product sample for editorial consideration, however all opinions expressed herein are 100% my own.

Wordless Wednesday: Are Your Excuses More Important Than Your Dreams?

noreply@blogger.com (Tracy Iglesias) — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 15:47:00 +0000

Happy Wordless Wednesday Butterflies - Bloggers feel free to post the link to your photos as a comment (we are too casual for a formal linky widget around here) and we will visit your site and show you some Wordless Wednesday comment love!

˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙

FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a sponsored post!

Set Your Inner Child Free with Peter and the Starcatcher at the New World Stages Theater!

noreply@blogger.com (Tracy Iglesias) — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 21:47:00 +0000

Can you still tap into your inner child? If you need a little help with that then you might want to check out Peter and the Starcatcher (A Grown Up's Prequel to Peter Pan!) now playing at the New World Stages Theater in New York City!

Peter and the Starcatcher won five Tony Awards and was named one of New York Times, New York Magazine and New Yorker's Top 10 Shows of the Year! It recently moved to the New World Stages Theater at 240 West 50th Street.

SYNOPSIS:

This imaginative prequel to the story of PeterPan, (based on the best-selling Disney-Hyperion novel by Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson), tells the story of an Orphan who heads to a faraway land, where he finds love, friendship, and ultimately, himself. The show is comprised of twelve actors playing more than a hundred unforgettable characters, all on a journey to answer the century-old question: How did Peter Pan become the boy who never grew up? The epic story of one of popular culture's most enduring and beloved characters proves that an audience's imagination can be the most captivating place in the world.

MY TAKE:

What I love about anything that is even remotely Disney related is that somehow, somewhere in the show there will be something with wings, Peter Pan of course has Tinkerbell (or in this version we learn how Tinkerbell comes to be), but my favorite quote from the play was: 'To Have Faith, is To Have Wings'.

Isn't that a perfect Ascending Butterfly quote? Faith really is the wings that allow us to soar in life, to take chances, to follow our dreams and to become the person we are meant to be!

But the best life lesson that comes from Peter and the Star Catcher, is that Peter keeps reminding the adults around him, that 'he just wants to be a boy' for awhile. Sometimes we cram so much into a child's schedule that they don't get time to just 'be', to just 'breathe' and enjoy what is supposed to be a care free time in their lives.

The performance is recommended for children ages 10 and up, and that sounds about right to me, there are some double entendres and an appearance of men dressed as mermaids, so I'll let you decide how young you feel comfortable in going.

This is a definite 'Ticket', and for my fellow cocktail lovers, I tried a cocktail called 'The Bad Idea' which was fantastic! (It's a bit like a Long Island) And they will bring it to at your seat if you don't feel like getting back up to hit the bar!

I greatly enjoyed Peter and The Star Catcher! Trust me, your inner child will thank you!

GET SOCIAL:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow @StarcatcherBway on Twitter

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Like Peter and the Starcatcher on Facebook

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Keep up with Peter and the Starcatcher on Pinterest as well (I like the 'Imagination' Board!)

If you've seen it, or plan to see it, let us know!

˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙

FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a sponsored post, no monetary compensation has been received by Ascending Butterfly, we were provided only with our seats for editorial consideration. All Opinions are always 100% my own. Special thanks to Culture Mom Media!