Thursday, May 30, 2013

Have you tried the Ultra Palmolive Soft Touch with Vitamin E or the Soft Touch with Aloe yet?

#Ad: I was provided with product samples from Influenster

Got it From Influenster, Influenster Badge


While City living has it's perks, one of the major drawbacks about Apartments in my city is that they are super small, most appliances are outdated or worse still there just isn't enough space to have every appliance in a kitchen that is already severely cramped for space as it is.

One of the things I have had to do without is a dishwasher. It's an appliance I'd love to have don't get me wrong, there just really isn't anywhere to put it, basically it's a washing machine or a dishwasher and I opted for the washing machine leaving me to wash dishes by hand. Day after Day. Month after Month. Week after Week. Year after Year. Monotonous Much?

So you now know exactly why I never get jazzed about Manicures or painting my nails, all that work or money spent and they aren't going to last long with my hands in water all the time.

Another negative about dish washing is just how dry it leaves your hands feeling when you are done!

Palmolive Soft Touch Badge


And that's where Influenster comes to the rescue, I received another box of love from my friends at Influenster. This one was actually too big for my mailbox, and when I got the slip to pick it up at the post office, I wasn't expecting just how heavy the package would be! And if the box didn't have a big ole clue I would have been wondering all the way to the train station what it was as I picked it up on the run on my way to an event in the City.

Let's face it butterflies, into everyone's day Chores must fall. Just because we don't want to do something doesn't mean we can get away with avoiding it. I for one can't leave dishes in the sink overnight, actually I can't leave them between meals either, I'm a dirty a dish, clean it as soon as you are done kind of girl. And while I don't find doing the dishes fun in the least, I make the best of it with my music on, and now I have a new solution for the dreaded 'dishpan hands' syndrome.

While Influenster intended me to share by sending me two, I will admit to a very much not like me bout of temporary dishes selfishness! I kept both of them to myself!


Ultra Palmolive Soft Touch Vitamin E, Ultra Palmolive Soft Touch with Aloe
Left: Ultra Palmolive Soft Touch Vitamin E, Right: Ultra Palmolive Soft Touch with Aloe

Normally I don't even have to be told to share, but these were just so awesome I had to try them both out! The pink bottle is Palmolive Soft Touch Vitamin E formulated for Soft Hands, and the blue bottle is Palmolive Soft Touch with Aloe formulated for Dry Skin. (For those interested there is a third formulation, with Cocoa Butter!)

And much like real 'twins' I am actually hard pressed to pick a favorite from the bunch! They both get my dishes clean and don't dry out my hands which makes me super happy! I'm not going to tell you they make dishes less of a chore, but they sure don't leave you with 'dishpan' hands! I still have a favorite moisturizer on my sink because I love putting on a skin oil or moisturizer when my skin is still damp, but on days when I'm in a rush or forget to put on the additional moisturizer my hands are still soft!

You know I love to do my research and keep track of ways to keep things Green, so for those of you thinking 'butterfly, I like the idea of Palmolive but I have an all Eco Kitchen, can I still use Palmolive?', the answer dear butterflies is a resounding YES! If you are all Eco, all the time, then Palmolive Eco + Lemon Splash may be better for you!

For fellow Influenster Members who say they never get picked, don't give up, keep being your fab and social self, because sometimes I go months and months between Influenster boxes, and then some months you get surprised with TWO boxes in the same month! BAM! SCORE!

If it's true that good things come in two's, then May has been a good mail month indeed! :-)

Sound off Butterfly: Still washing your dishes by hand like me, or do you have a dishwasher? (or is your dishwasher your hubby? LOL, I know I made myself laugh with that one!)


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

FTC Disclosure: Ascending Butterfly was provided with product samples for editorial consideration, all opinions are 100% my own. I am an Influenster Member, however this is a non-compensated product review.

Wednesday, May 29, 2013

Not So {Wordless Wednesday} Check out #photos from the @MadisonPlus MP Select Press Preview @alisoneighteen in New York City! #Fashion

Madison Plus Select Logo, Your Style Discovered


One of the best parts of living in New York City is being right smack dab in the hub of Fashion Central! There certainly isn't a shortage of choices here, there is literally something for everyone. Although there is a fashion segment where for a long time options felt super limited, Plus Size Fashion. 

Curvy Girls often feel like there are few options to look stylish and still be on trend in their size.

I'm happy to share that I recently attended a Fashion Event at New York City's Alison Eighteen that was a ray of hope in the sea of floral prints and mom jeans that most people complain is their only choice after a certain size.

Curvy Girls rejoice, Madison Plus, a website for plus size Fashions founded by Erica Young and Aimee Cheshire has set out to fill the void and show that curvy girls can still rock the trends! Their mission statement is simple: "Attainable luxe designed for full-figured, fashion-forward plus size women."

As a curvy Latina I can tell you that finding Fashion that is trendy and stylish isn't always easy, for me Jean shopping has always been an expedition even at what I consider my best 'fighting weight'. I greatly enjoyed meeting Aimee Cheshire, CEO of Madison Plus who shared her vision behind the curated content sold at Madison Plus.

Here are my best shots from the Press Preview from the Madison Plus Select Event:

Aimee Cheshire CEO of Madison Plus holds up a White Jacket from MYNT 1792 at Madison Plus Select Press Preview Event at Alison Eighteen in New York City
Aimee Cheshire CEO of Madison Plus holds up a White Jacket from MYNT 1792 at the Madison Plus Select Press Preview Event at Alison Eighteen in New York City

Aimee Cheshire CEO of Madison Plus holds up a Blue Jacket from MYNT 1792 at Madison Plus Select Press Preview Event at Alison Eighteen in New York City
Aimee Cheshire CEO of Madison Plus holds up a Blue Jacket from MYNT 1792 at the Madison Plus Select Press Preview Event at Alison Eighteen in New York City

ambiance at the venue, Alison Eighteen
Just a shot to soak up the ambiance at the venue, Alison Eighteen


Statement Jewelry on Display at Madison Plus Select Press Preview Event at  Alison Eighteen in New York City
Statement Jewelry on Display at Madison Plus Select Press Preview Event at  Alison Eighteen in New York City


Eden Miller, Designer, holds up Fashions from Cabiria Style at the Madison Plus Select Press Preview Event at Alison Eighteen in New York City


My Take:

I greatly enjoyed the Madison Plus Select Press Preview! It was fun to see so many Fashion-Foward styles for us curvy gals on display! Aimee's enthusiasm was definitely infectious, and you can tell she is passionate about curating the best collection of styles possible for style conscious plus size women! I was also impressed with designer Eden Miller who shared her whimsical style and collection of clothing for women in sizes 12-24. And as you can probably tell from my photo choices, the true style standout for me was MYNT 1792! I couldn't get enough of their pieces which matched my personal style to the tee!

If they weren't already on your radar, I hope you now make Madison Plus your one to watch! Because they are definitely on my radar, and I hope to have them back on our pages again soon!

Get Social:

Get social with Madison Plus, and don't forget to tell them you saw them featured on Ascending Butterfly!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 'Like' on Facebook
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow @Madison Plus via Twitter

Butterfly who is YOUR favorite Plus-Sized Fashion Retailer or Designer? Bloggers can also feel free to post your Wordless Wednesday links as a comment so we can check out your photos today too!

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

FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a Sponsored Post. Nor is this a compensated post. I was under no obligation to share my event recap and all opinions expressed are 100% my own. There were no gift bags offered during this event either!

Tuesday, May 28, 2013

So what's inside the @InfluensterVox Spring Fever 2013 VoxBox? Glad You Asked! #SpringVoxBox #BeautyBlogger

Got it from Influenster Badge, Influenster, Badge, Blog Badge


DisclosureI received these products from Influenster for testing purposes. All opinions are my own.

Influenster Spring Fever 2013 VoxBox, beauty, Secret Outlast Clear Gel Antiperspirant, NYC New York Color Applelicious Glossy, Broadway Nails imPRESS Press-on Manicure, OSIS Rough Rubber, Tastykake Kandy Bar Kakes
Influenster Spring Fever 2013 VoxBox

Don't you just love getting boxes overflowing with goodies? I know I do. There is something about this whole 'box a month' phenomenon that is slowly but surely winning me over! Whether it's filled with old favorites or soon to be new favorites, it's like a celebration in a box! We spend so much time taking care of responsibilities and being sensible, that's it's fun to find something that gives you a moment to feel sort of like a kid again!

Influenster Spring Fever 2013 VoxBox, beauty, Secret Outlast Clear Gel Antiperspirant, NYC New York Color Applelicious Glossy, Broadway Nails imPRESS Press-on Manicure, OSIS Rough Rubber, Tastykake Kandy Bar Kakes
Influenster Spring Fever 2013 VoxBox


What's in the Box?

Secret Outlast Clear Gel Antiperspirant
















Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Secret Outlast Clear Gel Antiperspirant - I'm already a Secret user but hadn't yet tried the Gel, the great thing about the Gel Formula is that it leaves no white residue on clothes, this one falls under the 'Strong Protection' category on Secret's Website, and says it offers up to 48 hours of odor protection, I will never find that out, and hopefully no one will test that claim out because that means not washing under your arms for 48 hours! EWWW! :-)

NYC New York Color Applelicious Glossy Lip Balm













Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ NYC New York Color Applelicious Glossy Lip Balm - With NYC being called 'The Big Apple' it's only fitting that this apple scented gloss with an apple in the center be included in my VoxBox as I'm NYC based. That definitely brought a smile to my face, and my lips, no pun intended! With ingredients like Shea Butter, Jojoba Oil, Vitamin E and Avocado Oil, I know I'm doing something good for my lips when I put this on!

Kiss Products Holla False Nail, 24 Count

























Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Broadway Nails imPRESS Press-on Manicure - I'm usually more of a solids girl when it comes to my nails, but since I have a dress that matches this pattern, I was pretty excited to see these. I have super short nails so these are perfect for me, but if you have long nails, you may have to trim yours a bit before applying. They last about a week, which is what most regular nail polish would last on me also, so definitely no complaints there. My nails are usually pretty stubby and super short, so these are perfect when I want some length or when I'm dressed up and want to look especially girly.

Schwarzkopf Professional OSiS+ Rough Rubber Texture Paste 50ml


















Schwarzkopf Professional OSiS+ Rough Rubber Texture Paste 50ml


Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ Schwarzkopf Professional OSiS+ Rough Rubber Texture Paste 50ml - The Rough Rubber Texture Paste gives you a moldable, matte look with strong hold. As I have very fine hair, this is perfect for when I cut bangs, it gives strong hold but it's moldable and not stiff like some strong hold hairsprays would be.

TastyKake Kandy Bar Kakes, Peanut Butter: Made with Real Reese's™ Peanut Butter






















Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - TastyKake Kandy Bar Kakes - These offer the best of both worlds, the taste of a candy bar with the freshness of a TastyKake! Chocolate enrobed cakes with a creme filling in a unique Kandy bar shape. They are available in S'mores, Peppermint and Peanut Butter, thankfully I got Peanut Butter because I hate S'mores! I ate mine the same night, it was the perfect late night snack!

Get Social With It:
Want to get social with all things Influenster? 
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ Like Influenster on Facebook
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ Follow @InfluensterVox on Twitter

My Take:

I enjoyed getting the chance to try these products out, for the ones that were entirely new to me, I may not have thought about getting them so having a chance to try them this way was a great way to discover a new product! And since I'm pretty bad about keeping up with my nails and I'm always typing so they get pretty beat up, it's been fun getting a chance to play with the Broadway Nails! My favorite is probably the Secret, because I regularly use it anyway, but I also liked the new Gloss as well. And like many writers who gets my best work done late at night when the rest of the world is quiet, I definitely enjoyed my TastyKake Kandy Bar!

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

FTC Disclosure: I am an Influenster Member and periodically receive a VoxBox with products to Sample. Members are required to fill out surveys about the products but are under no obligation to post about the boxes. This is NOT a sponsored/compensated Post and all opinions are 100% my own! Please visit our Disclosure Page for more information about our policies.

Saturday, May 25, 2013

{#Movie Review} @EpicTheMovie in theaters now + Armando Pérez aka @Pitbull discusses his role as 'Bufo' #EpicMamarazzi



Happy Memorial Day Weekend Butterflies!

It's a rainy Memorial Day Weekend in New York City so far, and I don't know about you, but I'm not letting Mother Nature get in the way of my 3 day weekend! A favorite rainy day activity of mine is definitely the movies, and if a family friendly movie is on your agenda this holiday weekend, then I  have one that just might fit the bill!

Yesterday, the movie Epic hit theaters and last week I had the opportunity to attend the #EpicMamarazzi with the dynamic duo behind TheMoms who hosted a Mamarazzi® With Pitbull.









ABOUT:

EPIC is a 3D CG adventure comedy that reveals a fantastical world unlike any other. From the creators of ICE AGE and RIO, EPIC tells the story of an ongoing battle between the forces of good, who keep the natural world alive, and the forces of evil, who wish to destroy it. When a teenage girl finds herself magically transported into this secret universe, she teams up with an elite band of warriors and a crew of comical, larger-than-life figures to save their world ... and ours.


Left: Denise Albert, Center: Pitbull, Right: Melissa Musen Gerstein


CAST:

Beyoncé Knowles (Voice of 'Queen Tara')


Colin Farrell (Voice of 'General Ronin')


Josh Hutcherson (Voice of 'Nod')



Christoph Waltz (Voice of 'Mandrake')


Amanda Seyfried (Voice of Mary Katherine 'MK')


Armando Pérez aka Pitbull (Voice of the frog 'Bufo')



Steven Tyler (Voice of 'Nim Galuu')


Aziz Ansari (Voice of 'Mub')



Chris O'Dowd (Voice of 'Grub')
+ Jason Sudeikis (Voice of the dad, 'Bomba')

VIDEO:

Pitbull participated in a very brief Q&A before the movie:


Credit: Fredy Mfuko , Mission 101 media

MY TAKE:

Epic is definitely family friendly fun that offers laughs for both the little ones and the adults! Often times a movie will have what I call a 'scene stealer' and in this movie Aziz Ansari, the voice of 'Mub' steals every scene he is in! Mub and Grub were lovable, cute and provide quite a few of the laugh out loud moments in the movie. Beyoncé is a warm Queen Tara and Pitbull is a believable Frog, and Jason Sudeikis delivers as the clueless Dad that was so tapped into his 'work' that he was missing what was right under his nose.

It's a great reminder for parents to spend more time living than just 'making a living'.

Left: Denise Albert, Center: Pitbull, Right: Melissa Musen Gerstein - Pitbull reminded the young ones in the audience the importance of heeding the advice of their mothers!

I have to apologize for the grainy photos, but for some reason unknown to anyone else who arrived almost 1 hour and a half before start time like I did, we were forced to move super far back, and vacate great seats only to have late comers take our seats. Because the theater wanted the seating filled from back to front upon arrival, so as far as the theater goes AMC 25, in midtown they were an epic fail, but the movie was a definite 'Ticket'. Seeing as how my online persona is 'The Official #TwitterPartyDJ' I was hoping to get a picture with Pitbull, but from my nosebleeds that didn't happen......hopefully I will get the chance to meet him person someday and get my photo opp!


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

FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a Sponsored Post. No compensation has been received to share my event recap or film review. There were no gift bags either, in case you were curious!

Friday, May 24, 2013

TGIF Butterfly: Memorial Day Weekend & Winner Edition!






Thank God It's Friday! And not just any Friday butterflies, it's Memorial Day Weekend! I have a few vets in my family so I hope that even if you don't have anyone who has ever served in your family, that you will still stop and take a moment this weekend especially to send good vibes, prayers and positive energy to all the men and women in the armed forces. This post is not a debate as to whether or not war is right or wrong, so no flames please, this is just my way of taking a moment to thank those who are putting their lives on the line each and everyday, and for their families as well.

Today was a great day, I found out I was a winner in a contest I entered on Facebook, and I also have a winner to announce from our community from our recent Ascending Butterfly Monthly Book Club Giveaway for the Fast Metabolism Diet!

WINNER:

As you can see in the Rafflecopter Widget, the winner was entrant #25 Brutus D. So join me in congratulating our most recent winner!

And carve out a moment to enter some of current Active Giveaways:

(1) Gorton's Seafood Challenge Prize Pack Giveaway which includes: 5 Full Value Product Coupons so you can try the 20 under 200 calories products for yourself, 1 Gorton's Branded Apron (perfect since BBQ/Cookout season has begun!), 2 Gorton's Branded Oven Mitts and 1 Gorton's Branded Spatula.

(2) I was selected as 'Bloguera del Mes'/'Blogger of the Month' with 'Proyecto Desayuno'/The Breakfast Project! And to celebrate my blogger of the month status, we are hosting a Got Milk? themed Prize Basket Giveaway which includes: Got Milk? Branded Merchandise, plus some really cool gift cards including a $50 American Express Card (so you can stock up on Milk of course!) and a $15 Starbucks Gift Card (so you can get your caffeine on and have tons of energy to read our cool blog posts of course!) :-)

And we are days away from June, but don't think we are slowing down for summer, in fact it will be just the opposite! Stay tuned for our next Featured Handbag in the Spotlight, our next Monthly Book Club Title and and awesome Jewelry giveaway coming up soon for our Fashionista Butterflies in the house!

What are your plans for Memorial Day Weekend Butterfly?

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

FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a sponsored post. See our full Giveaway and Disclosure Policy.

Thursday, May 23, 2013

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

Got Milk Logo, Enriquece tu manana,


#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:

The Breakfast Project, The Milkman, BlogHer12, BlogHer 2012, Got Milk?, 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!

Wednesday, May 22, 2013

Wordless Wednesday: Be the Flow!

Be The Flow, Inspiration, encouragement, empowerment, motivation


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.

Tuesday, May 21, 2013

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

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!

Monday, May 20, 2013

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

Motivation Monday Music Review:

Michael Bublé To Be Loved Music Album CD Track Listing


DisclosureI 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!

Michael Buble To Be Loved Music Album CD Track Listing
"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.

Michael Buble
"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·˙

DisclosureI 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