Winners! Winners! Winners!

We are a bit overdue for a winners list! While winners have been notified and have confirmed, I haven't had a chance to make a winners post in awhile!

Giveaway Name: LUMIXYL Brightening System 8 weeks to a brighter you Giveaway! Ended 3/21.

Winners: Natashagt (twitter winner), Suzanna (facebook winner), susiebhomemaker (GFC winner)

Special Thanks to Lumixyl for hosting 3 winners! This allowed us to pick one winner per channel, a google follower, a facebook 'Liker', and a Twitter Follower!

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Giveaway Name: $50 Novica.com Digital Gift Code Giveaway! Ended March 28, 2011.

Winner: Beth E.

Special Thanks to Novica.com for hosting during our 'It's MY Birthday, but You get the Gifts' promotion!

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Giveaway Name: Spotlight Handbag of the Month Giveaway (MARCH) Ended 04/01/11

Winner: hondaray6

Special Thanks to Wilson's Leather for providing us with such a lovely Spring Bag for our Spotlight Handbag Feature!

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Active Giveaways!

1) Ends 04/12 - Rebecca St. James I Will Praise You CD Review and Giveaway! - Enter HERE!

2) Ends 04/15 - Yanni Truth of Touch CD Review and Giveaway! - Enter HERE!

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Vote Needed!

I am a finalist in Mom Central Consulting's 'Grow Your Personal Brand' Grant Program. I would love your vote, but I would also love for you to read my entry. My essay is entitled 'Project Chrysalis'. A project, which many of you know has already begun. The essay questions I was asked to answer really made me think, about my 'brand' and most importantly about my goals both personally and professionally. I hope reading my entry brings you inspiration! This is a DAILY, 1 click, no registration required vote request. You can vote by pressing the image below or HERE:



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FTC Disclosure: I was not asked to write about Mom Central's Grant Program, nor does writing about it improve my chances. I feel the message they are sending by supporting bloggers efforts to grow their brand is an important and powerful one! All winners listed in winner announcements have been notified directly via email and have already confirmed their win.

{CLOSED} Yanni Truth of Touch CD Review and Giveaway! Ends 04/15!

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This giveaway is now CLOSED. Thanks so much to our wonderful sponsor One2One Network! We look forward to working with you again! The winner is Erin Cook, Congrats Erin!

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Ascending Butterfly's 'It's MY Birthday, but You Get the Gifts' Giveaways, brought to you by:

We are in the middle of the 'it's MY birthday, But You get the gifts' annual promotion! We started with Novica where I shared some great prezzies (including cute and meaningful bling), we then hosted a Lindt chocolate giveaway and we moved to music with the Rebecca St. James I Will Praise You CD Review and Giveaway!

I for one hold certainly nightly rituals sacred no matter how busy I am, and for me, while a shower is great in the morning so I can rush out the door quickly, there is something about my night time long hot bath that sets the tone of my night. I like to light candles and listen to soft music while in the bath, and I found a new CD that's going into my 'relaxation rotation', Truth of Touch by Yanni!

It's incredibly melodic and very soothing after a long day. You can just let the tracks wash over you like a soft spring rain. I enjoy watching Yanni's televised concerts on PBS. In fact the tour for this album is coming soon to a city near you, see Yanni tour dates on his website for a full schedule!

Track Listing:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Truth of Touch

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Echo of a Dream

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Seasons

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Voyage

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Flash of Color

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Vertigo

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Nine

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Can't Wait

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Guilty Pleasure

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - O Luce Che Brilla Nell'Oscurita

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - I'm So

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Long Way Home

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Yanni & Arturo

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Mist of a Kiss

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Secret

My Take:

Yanni's first studio album, Optimystique, was released January 1, 1984. I feel his music has stood the test of time due to strong composition, fluidity, and a genuine passion for music in it's purest form.

Certain tracks that stood out for me were #13 Yanni and Arturo because I am a long time fan of Arturo Sandoval! I was super happy to hear their collaboration! My second favorite is definitely track #10 called O Luce Che Brilla Nell'Oscurita. Before reading the jacket, I thought this was a collaboration with Andrea Bocelli, but the vocals were actually performed by Nathan Pacheco, lyrics were by him as well! Great track! For some reason I like to listen to operatic vocals while cooking Italian! :)

and last but not least, a third standout track is the last track #15 with vocals by Chloe, it stays with you, I wouldn't be surprised to hear it in a movie for some reason, strong almost haunting vocals! Notable Mention is Track #8, Can't Wait with vocals by Leslie Mills.

This CD is going to remain in my 'relaxation rotation' playlist, evening bath, night time driving, and I'd also add romantic dinners in, you can totally get lost in the music. This is a great CD and I defnitely recommend it!

You didn't think I'd forget about you right? Who loves you butterfly?

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - WIN IT! - Ascending Butterfly and our friends at one2onenetwork have a very special surprise for 1 lucky winner! 1 winner will receive Yanni Truth of Touch CD!

Don't you just ♥ Yanni? I know I do!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - How to Win: (1) You must be a PUBLIC follower of Ascending Butterfly to be eligible for this and all giveaways. Indicate in your entry that you follow (if your 'comment name/user id' differs from your profile id, please let me know what name you follow under) and (2)MANDATORY entry- Tell us your favorite Yanni Album or Track! (3) You must also leave your email address somewhere in your comment. (You can format it this way for security, example: ascendingbutterfly AT mail host DOT com). (If your email is clearly visible in your profile, you can just say so, that's OK!) Please follow the easy 1, 2, 3 steps to winning (or in this case, the A,B,C’s of winning!) This giveaway is open to USA residents who are 18 years of age or older. No PO Boxes.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Please follow directions or you will be disqualified! All comments are moderated, they may not appear on the site right away (comments like "I want this" or "I want to win" will not be entered). You have from Tuesday, April 05, 2011 until Tuesday, April 15, 2011 at 03:00 PM (EST) to comment and be entered for a chance to win. You will have 48 hours to confirm if we do not hear from you we will be forced to move on to an alternate. (We only notify winners DIRECTLY via email, so if your profile or your comment does not have an email your entry will not be processed)

EXTRA CREDIT:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - NEW! - one click, no registration required, super easy, DAILY vote, I am a finalist in Mom Central's Grow Your Personal Brand Grants Program and would really appreciate your vote! Read more about ‘Project Chrysalis’ and vote here

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Blog about this giveaway, linking to this giveaway post. Leave the URL in a comment. (If your blog post contains more than just a pic and link you'll get 5 extra credit entries!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - In the spirit of Music Fun share with us your favorite song ever! (Can be any genre or style!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Grab our Button and put it on your Blog. Leave the URL where we can see it in a comment (if you already have our button, just let us know, you will still get extra credit!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow @Tracy_Iglesias on Twitter (this is ascendingbutterfly’s editor) and give me your twitter ID in a comment

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow @yanni on Twitter

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Tweet this:

Pls RT Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ #ascendingbutterfly @yanni Truth of Touch CD #Giveaway! Ends 04/16! http://tinyurl.com/3uwzwql

(Leave a comment with the tweet’s url so you can get a valid entry (click on the time your tweet was sent to get the direct URL and then copy and paste it here). You can Tweet TWICE per DAY. If you Tweet more than that, that entry will be disqualified.)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow Yanni on his Youtube Channel

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Digg about this giveaway and leave your digg username in your comment

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Fave this blog on Technorati and leave your Technorati user name in your comment

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow Ascending Butterfly on Facebook HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow Yanni and tell him Ascending Butterfly Sent You on Facebook HERE (Please post the link to your facebook comment, you can get that link the same way you get your link to your tweets!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow Ascending Butterfly on Networked Blogs HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Join Ascending Butterfly's NEW Community/Real Time Chat, Group HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Vote for Ascending Butterfly on: Fuel My Blog

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Have you entered another active giveaway on Ascending Butterfly? Let me know which one and you’ll get more extra credit!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Have you commented on a non-giveaway entry? Let me know which one here and you’ll get more extra credit!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Press the button below and join, you get an extra entry for this giveaway and a shot at more great prizes, lets win together! (one time extra credit, will be verified before entry can be accepted)

Can't wait to win it? You can also order it at a great price:

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FTC Disclosure Info for this Giveaway: This is not a paid insertion. This is a non-compensated post and all opinions regarding the product and the sponsor are my own experiences. I was provided product to facilitate the review and giveaway. The sponsors are fulfilling directly to prize winner(s), this in no way influenced my opinion of the products. Once a winner is selected and their information has been forwarded to the sponsor, the responsibility of prize fulfillment rests with the sponsor. An Amazon affiliate link has been included in this post.

Meeting Spencer {Film Review}

Meeting Spencer, is a Malcolm Mowbray Film, coming to The Quad Cinema  in New York City on Friday, April 8, 2011, it's a contemporary comedy, that takes place in the famed Frankie & Johnnie’s  Steakhouse restaurant in New York City.

It’s a sort of ‘comedy of errors’ that brings new meaning to the ‘Murphy’s Law’ expression “If anything can go wrong, it will’.

ABOUT

Famed director Harris Chappell (played by Jeffrey Tambor) plans to relaunch his Broadway career after suffering a humiliating series of flops in Hollywood. He arrives at Frankie & Johnnie’s restaurant anxious to see his former flame Didi (played by Melinda McGraw) and meet a struggling young actor, Spencer West (played by Jesse Plemons), as a favor to an old friend. A night of revelry and revelations proceeds as Chappell encounters a series of unexpected roadblocks. As his plans for a triumphant comeback spiral wildly out of control, he not only must doubt whether his highly anticipated new play will ever see the light of day, he begins to question his own sanity.

CAST

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ – JEFFREY TAMBOR (Harris Chappell)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ – MELINDA MCGRAW (Didi Ravenal)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ – JESSE PLEMONS (Spencer West)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ – YVONNE ZIMA (Sophia Martinelli)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ – JILL MARIE JONES (Nikki Ross) (some of you may remember her from Television Sitcom ‘Girlfriends’ where she portrayed the very ‘confident’ character, Toni Childs)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ – WILLIAM MORGAN SHEPPARD (Larry Lind)

MY TAKE

This is a well paced movie, that keeps you laughing, so much so that you almost forget that the entire movie takes place inside the Restaurant! You can actually almost see this as being a play instead of a movie, and whenever you can get play caliber these days for the price of a movie ticket, you’d be foolish to let it pass you by!

Harris has a very dry humor coupled with a huge ego and is brilliantly portrayed by Jeffrey Tambor. As a New Yorker myself I did appreciate Melinda McGraw’s portrayal of Didi, she was definitely that theater hound that never misses a show, the one who seems to know almost everyone. And I also thought Jill Marie Jones nailed the relentless Nikki Ross, the reporter who will do anything for the story (and I will say the ‘twist’ given this character was a very surprising one, no spoilers here, so you’ll have to see for yourself!).

For anyone who has a dream and anyone who wants a good laugh!

Keeping it – Social Social Media That is!

Meeting Spencer on Facebook
Meeting Spencer on Twitter @Meeting_Spencer

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FTC Disclosure Info: This is not a paid insertion. This is a non-compensated post and all opinions regarding the movie are my own. I was provided with advanced screening passes to facilitate my review.

Wordless Wednesday - Wishing You A Butterfly Encounter!

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Rebecca St. James I Will Praise You CD Review and Giveaway! Ends 04/12!

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This giveaway is now CLOSED. Thanks so much to our wonderful sponsor Rebecca St. James! We look forward to working with you again! The winner is Margaret R., Congratulations Margaret!

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Ascending Butterfly's 'It's MY Birthday, but You Get the Gifts' Giveaways, brought to you by:

Yesterday was my birthday and we are in the middle of the 'it's MY birthday, But You get the gifts' annual promotion! We started with Novica where I shared some great prezzies (including cute and meaningful bling), we currently have a Lindt chocolate giveaway running and now we are moving to music! When I think birthday or party I think music!

The day I was born fell on a Palm Sunday and my birthday always coincides with the season of Lent, so for me WHAT I listen to during this season is very important to me! I like listening to songs of praise and worship, across all categories and genres including Gospel, Rock, Christian and I've even listened to reggae and rap praise songs.

What we watch, read, and listen to has a huge influence on our thinking both on a conscience and sub-conscience level. For me, especially during the season of Lent, when I listen to music I like that music to fill my soul and lift my spirits.

I also have a keen interest in music released on or within days of my birthday across any genre!

Rebecca St. James I Will Praise You

In the following video, Rebecca explains her song, "Shine Your Glory Down," from the album, I Will Praise You, her first studio project since 2005, available everywhere April 5, 2011.



Track Listing:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - I Will Praise You

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - You Never Let Go

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Shine Your Glory Down

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - You Still Amaze Me
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - In A Moment
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - The Kindness Of Our God
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - When The Stars Burn Down (Blessing And Honor)
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Almighty God
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - You Hold Me Now
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - You Make Everything Beautiful

My Take:

Rebecca St. James first studio album was a self titled album released June 1, 1994. Her career's longevity is a true testament to her Faith. There is an underlying theme in many of the tracks of not letting anything stand in the way of her praising him, which truly resonated with me. There are many stressors in our day to day lives, that pull us away from ourselves, shake our foundations and test our Faith, but actively affirming that you will continue to praise, to let your soul be free, to sing, to work at your happiness and your Faith is a powerful message. This is a beautiful reminder not to let anything get you down or get in the way of your Faith.

Certain tracks were perfect 'road trip' tracks, the kind of songs that urge you to move forward and put trouble behind you, those uplifting, sing a long to type tracks that you are comfortable having the kids hear while they are in the car with you! I enjoyed this album, and definitely recommend it! Would you like to preview the album for yourself? Rebecca St. James is having a listening party, please click HERE!

You didn't think I'd forget about you right? Who loves you butterfly?

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - WIN IT! - Ascending Butterfly and our friends at Propeller have a very special surprise for 1 lucky winner! 1 winner will receive Rebecca St. James 'I Will Praise You CD'! (This is a great idea to slip one in that special someone's Easter Basket)

Don't you just ♥ Rebecca St. James? I know I do!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - How to Win: (1) You must be a PUBLIC follower of Ascending Butterfly to be eligible for this and all giveaways. Indicate in your entry that you follow (if your 'comment name/user id' differs from your profile id, please let me know what name you follow under) and (2)MANDATORY entry- Tell us one way music enhances your Faith. (3) You must also leave your email address somewhere in your comment. (You can format it this way for security, example: ascendingbutterfly AT mail host DOT com). (If your email is clearly visible in your profile, you can just say so, that's OK!) Please follow the easy 1, 2, 3 steps to winning (or in this case, the A,B,C’s of winning!) This giveaway is open to USA residents who are 18 years of age or older. No PO Boxes.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Please follow directions or you will be disqualified! All comments are moderated, they may not appear on the site right away (comments like "I want this" or "I want to win" will not be entered). You have from Tuesday, April 05, 2011 until Tuesday, April 12, 2011 at 03:00 PM (EST) to comment and be entered for a chance to win. You will have 48 hours to confirm if we do not hear from you we will be forced to move on to an alternate. (We only notify winners DIRECTLY via email, so if your profile or your comment does not have an email your entry will not be processed)

EXTRA CREDIT:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - NEW! - one click, no registration required, super easy, DAILY vote, I am a finalist in Mom Central's Grow Your Personal Brand Grants Program and would really appreciate your vote! Read more about ‘Project Chrysalis’ and vote here

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Blog about this giveaway, linking to this giveaway post. Leave the URL in a comment. (If your blog post contains more than just a pic and link you'll get 5 extra credit entries!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - In the spirit of Music Fun share with us your favorite song ever! (Can be any genre or style!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Grab our Button and put it on your Blog. Leave the URL where we can see it in a comment (if you already have our button, just let us know, you will still get extra credit!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow @Tracy_Iglesias on Twitter (this is ascendingbutterfly’s editor) and give me your twitter ID in a comment

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow @RebeccaStJames on Twitter

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Tweet this:

Pls RT Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ #ascendingbutterfly @RebeccaStJames I Will Praise You CD #Giveaway! Ends 04/12! http://tinyurl.com/3c9nmvu

(Leave a comment with the tweet’s url so you can get a valid entry (click on the time your tweet was sent to get the direct URL and then copy and paste it here). You can Tweet TWICE per DAY. If you Tweet more than that, that entry will be disqualified.)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow Rebecca St. James on her Youtube Channel

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Digg about this giveaway and leave your digg username in your comment

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Fave this blog on Technorati and leave your Technorati user name in your comment

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow Ascending Butterfly on Facebook HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow Rebecca St. James and tell her Ascending Butterfly Sent You on Facebook HERE (Please post the link to your facebook comment, you can get that link the same way you get your link to your tweets!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow Ascending Butterfly on Networked Blogs HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Join Ascending Butterfly's NEW Community/Real Time Chat, Group HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Vote for Ascending Butterfly on: Fuel My Blog

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Have you entered another active giveaway on Ascending Butterfly? Let me know which one and you’ll get more extra credit!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Have you commented on a non-giveaway entry? Let me know which one here and you’ll get more extra credit!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Press the button below and join, you get an extra entry for this giveaway and a shot at more great prizes, lets win together! (one time extra credit, will be verified before entry can be accepted)

Can't wait to win it? You can also order it at a great price:

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

FTC Disclosure Info for this Giveaway: This is not a paid insertion. This is a non-compensated post and all opinions regarding the product and the sponsor are my own experiences. I was provided product to facilitate the review and giveaway. The sponsors are fulfilling directly to prize winner(s), this in no way influenced my opinion of the products. Once a winner is selected and their information has been forwarded to the sponsor, the responsibility of prize fulfillment rests with the sponsor. An Amazon affiliate link has been included in this post.

Gratitude, Re-Discovery, and Getting Gorgeous 2011 New York City!

As you know Sunday is usually dedicated to my 'Sunday Moment of Gratitude' post, but trust me this ties in! My birthday is April 4th, and this weekend has been very much all about me, in the best way possible.

I've been trying despite all the stresses lately to devote a little more time to myself and my own needs. And this weekend I attended an event that dove tailed perfectly with my current theme of taking more time for myself, and discovering who I am under the layers of 'title', 'roles' and 'responsibilities'.

I greatly remember 'younger' me, she was a lot more fun. She spent more time on her face and hair, she had a thing for great shoes and handbags. Well this birthday I decided to 're-discover young me' again. And cast aside the thoughts of guilt that come when you take time away from one area to give it to another. This weekend I took some much needed me time, and met some great brands in the process.

This is my second Getting Gorgeous Event. The first, was last year at BlogHer 2010 in New York City. This year's event started with me checking in my coat, getting a special wristband (for my goodie bag on the way out) and being handed a Mimosa! Simply Orange Juice provided attendees with a fantastic afternoon Mimosa! I couldn't actually remember the last time I had one. (Check number one for rediscovering fun Tracy).

I had a chance to circulate in the place that is somehow slowly but surely becoming my home away from home, The Metropolitan Pavilion! (Many of my Fashion Week Photos were taken here!)  I had the chance to meet some great brands and do tons of things I normally don't do like eat Hummus (my family is going to gasp here, I'm not the biggest garbonzo bean lover and usually shy away from anything which contains it), somehow BJ's got me to try a Guacamole and Hummus Hybrid Dip, and I discovered it's delicious! (Being Adventurous, Check number 2 for rediscovering fun Tracy).

Midway in, I passed a tempting tower of cupcakes provided by Georgetown Cupcakes and decided to sit a spell and try one out. (Cupcakes before dinner, I'm smelling a check 3 here!)

Another highlight was meeting the Tide reps who handed me a Tide 2 Go mini sample and me breaking out laughing, I reached into my handbag and pulled out my full size Tide 2 Go which I never leave home without. I compared it to an American Express, which made them laugh so hard I couldn't help but laugh too! It's like they had me in mind when they invented it. Even when I change handbags, my Tide 2 Go always come with me. I can't tell you how many outfits that thing has saved. How many times have you gone out and had someone spill a drink on you, or a waiter/waitress accidentally put the plate too close to you and get food on your shirt. (and why is it usually your favorite white shirt?) (I’d say a check 4 here for laughter!)

Another table that was memorable for me was Sarah Potempa because she actually made us work for our goodie bag! She did a celeb hair trivia game that was super fun! When I light the candle I won I am sure I am going to remember her!

As you can see from the photo above, I also had the chance to get my picture taken with a life size standee of Brooke Elliott who plays lead character Jane Bingum on the Lifetime TV Series Drop Dead Diva! I love that show! I wish they would have also had a Standee of Margaret Cho who portrays Jane’s fiery Assistant, Teri Lee, I would have definitely posed for that picture as well! I have this thing for taking photos with mascots or standees! (Drop Dead Diva Moment, definitely a check Five!)

Another fun time was had meeting the reps from Sandals! ‘Fun Tracy’ (the one I’m trying to reconnect with!) usually visits a warm, sunny beach vacation each winter. Responsible Tracy has not had her annual beach vacation in 2 years so speaking with the Sandals Reps was a bit bittersweet, as now I’m having visions of sun, sand and fun floating in my head! I’ll be dreaming of Turks and Caicos this birthday weekend!

There were tons of fabulous brands in attendance including: Tide, Hanes, Simply Orange Juice, Dream Water, Goody Hair, Miraclebody, Shopafrolic, BJs Wholesale, Lifetime Moms, Weight Watchers, Hair Room Service, Amy Tara Koch, Sandals Resorts, Georgetown Cupcakes, Belli and great brands in the gift bags including: Affresh, Nyx Cosmetics, Smashbox (great friends of Ascending Butterfly, we love all things Smashbox), Sue Devitt, Restaurant.com, Moe’s Southwest Grill, Studio Jewel (Lisa Lehmann Designs included a pair of totally fab earrings), Lichi Supplements, Soft Lips, Secret Sleeves, Nick Chavez (his fantastic wet/dry conditioning spray was included in the gift bags), and while I was not able to get my hair done by Hair Room Service (which I would have loved since my big day is coming up!), they did provide great hair samples as well!).

The title sponsor of the event was Degree Women, and I’d like to thank them in addition to the other sponsors and exhibitors for supporting the efforts of Getting Gorgeous, a woman owned events business that does fantastic work connecting bloggers and brands! Degree provided samples of the NEW Degree Women Deodorant with motionSENSE, which I am looking forward to trying out!

I had a fantastic time, and it was a great way to spend my pre-birthday! I like to do goal setting on my birthday instead of New Year’s Eve, and the time I spent at Getting Gorgeous, is a perfect reminder that this year one the biggest goals I plan to set for myself is better work/life balance and increasing the time I spend on myself.

As for me, this ‘drop dead diva’ plans to make everday a perfect excuse for ‘getting gorgeous’, care to Join me?

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FTC Disclosure Info: This is not a paid insertion. This is a non-compensated post and all opinions regarding the products and the brands listed are expressly my own experiences. Getting Gorgeous organizers are hosting a giveaway for attendees who post a recap of the event to have a chance to win $500, this post is my entry for that giveaway, however all experiences cited are my own with each brand. I did receive a gift bag for attending.

{CLOSED} Perfect Pairing Lindt Chocolate Giveaway! Ends 04/07

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This giveaway is now CLOSED. Thanks so much to our wonderful sponsor Lindt! We look forward to working with you again! The winner is CLC408!

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Ascending Butterfly's 'It's MY Birthday, but You Get the Gifts' Giveaways, brought to you by:

Well my butterflies, my big day is coming up on Monday, and we are in the middle of the 'it's MY birthday, But You get the gifts' annual promotion! We started with Novica where I shared some great prezzies (including cute and meaningful bling), and now we are moving to treats!

As you know I celebrate my birthday for a full month, and delectable delights are a big part of the fun! I am definitely a chocolate lover, and a big believer in the saying that you should never trust someone who hates chocolate or puppies (unless of course, it's not that they hate either one, but are allergic).

Besides Milk, Do you know what else pairs quite nicely with chocolate?

If you answered 'Wine' then you and your palate are definitely a friend of mine!

Lindt Excellence Bars



70% Cocoa



Even though this is 70% Cocoa chocolate, there is no 'bitter' taste, it's a very smooth chocolate flavor!

About:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Aroma: Citrus, Vanilla, Fresh Leaves

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Taste: Smooth and Creamy Dark Chocolate that is neither bitter nor overpowering. Bright Floral Flavor with Fruit and Vanilla Notes.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Pairing Suggestions: Sweet Fruit Flavors and pronounced Vanilla found in Merlot compliment the Vanilla in the 70% bar quite nicely!

A Touch of Sea Salt Dark

For those of you who like savory with their sweet, then this bar is definitely for you!

About:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Aroma: Cocoa, Brown Sugar, ocean salt

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Taste: The delicate, sweet Cocoa flavor is intensified by the bite of Fleur de Sel Sea Salt. Delightfully sharp with notes of cocoa and honey.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Pairing Suggestions: The rich berry notes in a Cabernet Franc Ice Wine are a perfect accompaniment to the Touch of Sea Salt Bar.

My Take:

These bars were both super good! And don't be shy about the pairings, you can try the dark chocolate with a crisp white and it's a nice surprise for your palate. I would also go bold, because I did try this, take the Touch of Sea Salt bar, and pair it with a great Tequila! It makes for an incredible combo!

How about discovering your own Perfect Pairing? You can with the awesome new contest from Lindt called 'Discover Your Perfect Pairing'.  You can enter for a chance to win a luxurious trip to the California Wine Country, or instantly win one of over 100 prizes! How cool is that?

You didn't think I'd forget about you right? Who loves you butterfly? This is one of those times I truly wish I could pull an oprah winfrey on you and say 'you get Chocolate, you get Chocolate, you are all getting Chocolate!' I can't do that unfortunately, but you can try winning some here!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - WIN IT! - Ascending Butterfly and our friends at Lindt Chocolate have a very special surprise for 1 lucky winner! 1 winner will receive the same bars I tried! You can slip one in that special someone's Easter Basket and still keep one for yourself!

Don't you just ♥ Lindt Chocolate? I know I do!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - How to Win: (1) You must be a PUBLIC follower of Ascending Butterfly to be eligible for this and all giveaways. Indicate in your entry that you follow (if your 'comment name/user id' differs from your profile id, please let me know what name you follow under) and (2)MANDATORY entry- Visit Lindt Excellence and link us another bar you'd like to try! Do NOT Post the Name/URL to the bars reviewed or your entry will be disqualified. (3) You must also leave your email address somewhere in your comment. (You can format it this way for security, example: ascendingbutterfly AT mail host DOT com). (If your email is clearly visible in your profile, you can just say so, that's OK!) Please follow the easy 1, 2, 3 steps to winning (or in this case, the A,B,C’s of winning!) This giveaway is open to USA residents who are 18 years of age or older. No PO Boxes.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Please follow directions or you will be disqualified! All comments are moderated, they may not appear on the site right away (comments like "I want this" or "I want to win" will not be entered). You have from Thursday, March 31, 2011 until Thursday, April 07, 2011 at 03:00 PM (EST) to comment and be entered for a chance to win. You will have 48 hours to confirm if we do not hear from you we will be forced to move on to an alternate. (We only notify winners DIRECTLY via email, so if your profile or your comment does not have an email your entry will not be processed)

EXTRA CREDIT:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - NEW! - one click, no registration required, super easy, DAILY vote, I am a finalist in Mom Central's Grow Your Personal Brand Grants Program and would really appreciate your vote! Read more about ‘Project Chrysalis’ and vote here

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Blog about this giveaway, linking to this giveaway post. Leave the URL in a comment. (If your blog post contains more than just a pic and link you'll get 5 extra credit entries!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - In the spirit of Chocolate Fun share with us your favorite way to eat chocolate!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Grab our Button and put it on your Blog. Leave the URL where we can see it in a comment (if you already have our button, just let us know, you will still get extra credit!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow @Tracy_Iglesias on Twitter (this is ascendingbutterfly’s editor) and give me your twitter ID in a comment

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Tweet this:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ #ascendingbutterfly @Lindt_Chocolate Perfect Pairing #Giveaway! Ends 04/07 http://tinyurl.com/3s6z63s

(Leave a comment with the tweet’s url so you can get a valid entry (click on the time your tweet was sent to get the direct URL and then copy and paste it here). You can Tweet TWICE per DAY. If you Tweet more than that, that entry will be disqualified.)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow @Lindt_Chocolate on Twitter

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Digg about this giveaway and leave your digg username in your comment

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Fave this blog on Technorati and leave your Technorati user name in your comment

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow Ascending Butterfly on Facebook HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow Lindt Chocolate and tell them Ascending Butterfly Blog Sent You on Facebook HERE (Please post the link to your facebook comment, you can get that link the same way you get your link to your tweets!)

*You might want to enter the Lindt Gold Bunny Photo Contest While You Are There!*

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow Ascending Butterfly on Networked Blogs HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Join Ascending Butterfly's NEW Community/Real Time Chat, Group HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Vote for Ascending Butterfly on: Fuel My Blog

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Have you entered another active giveaway on Ascending Butterfly? Let me know which one and you’ll get more extra credit!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Have you commented on a non-giveaway entry? Let me know which one here and you’ll get more extra credit!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Press the button below and join, you get an extra entry for this giveaway and a shot at more great prizes, lets win together! (one time extra credit, will be verified before entry can be accepted)

Can't wait to win it? You can also order it at a great price:

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FTC Disclosure Info for this Giveaway: This is not a paid insertion. This is a non-compensated post and all opinions regarding the products and the sponsor are my own experiences. I was provided product to facilitate the review and giveaway. The sponsors are fulfilling directly to prize winner(s), this in no way influenced my opinion of the products. Once a winner is selected and their information has been forwarded to the sponsor, the responsibility of prize fulfillment rests with the sponsor. An Amazon affiliate link has been included in this post.