Saturday, March 24, 2012

Weekly Moment of #Gratitude + #Giveaway Updates!


What I am grateful for:


Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ Closer to an answer!  - As many of you already know I have been dealing with a long medical nightmare that has sent me back to the hospital, where I sit now as I write this weekly gratitude post. While to most it would seem very strange to be writing a gratitude post from a hospital bed,  I'm actually a  bit closer to having answers, and for that I am feeling quite grateful. It hasn't been an easy week this week for me or my family by any stretch of the imagination, but I've kept a positive attitude despite all my struggles, and it has served me well. I've met some fascinating and wonderful people here, who knows maybe I'll share some additional stories about my time here on Ascending Butterfly in upcoming posts.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Twitter Party! - That's right, 'The Official #TwitterPartyDJ' is hosting another great twitter party soon! So save the date Butterflies, it will be held on April 24th from 9-11pm EST/6-8pm PST. The prizes are amazing, and the tweet chat is going to be super fun and fast paced as always, RSVP page coming soon!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Duane Reade VIP Blogger - I had the opportunity to meet my fellow VIP Bloggers, members of the Duane Reade Team as well as the firm that is putting the bloggers and brand together, Collective Bias, we had an amazing store walk through, I'll write a full post about it soon, but I'm super excited to be part of this program and I am looking forward to bringing you great information, sales, events and happenings at Duane Reade!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Closed Giveaway Update: As soon as I'm back home I will work on closing out the Macy's Ideology Giveaway!


Hope all my butterflies are having an amazing weekend!

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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

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Active Giveaway:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - ENDS SOONAscending Butterfly Monthly Book Club: Chicken Soup for the Soul: Devotional Stories for Tough Times Book Giveaway! Ends 03/25-This book has brought me a great deal of hope, and the prayers are written in a style that has a simple, yet raw honesty, that they truly touched my soul. I genuinely hope that the winner of this giveaway finds this book to be a huge blessing and source of hope that helps them find the words and faith to pray their life onto a better path.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - {Coming Soon} : The return of our monthly Featured Handbag in the Spotlight with a handbag from Nicole Miller! (A perfect handbag for a night out!)

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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:
















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

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FTC Disclosure: Journal Recommendation uses an Amazon Affiliate Link.

Wednesday, March 21, 2012

Not So Wordless Wednesday: Move over Dancing With the Stars, it's time for your child to shine in the Curious George Dance Contest!


If like me, you enjoyed the first episode of this season's Dancing With The Stars this week, and have been running around the house dancing since, I'm sure your child has been watching and imitating you!

As many of you remember last year I became a 'Curious George Moms' Brand Ambassador and helped host a twitter party for the Curious George Mother's Day/Dia de Las Madres episode (you can read about that HERE if you missed it the first time) and as Curious George was so special to me as a child, and I enjoyed sharing his antics with my niece and my nephews I jumped at the chance to share his latest adventure with you all.

First of all my apologies, my goal was to get this post up yesterday for you guys so I could let you know about a twitter party that happened earlier today, but I didn't come out the hospital feeling well enough so yesterday was a completely internet free day for me as per doctors orders. (I probably shouldn't be on today either, but I won't tell if you won't!)



Our friends at Curious George are back to share a new fun campaign they are working on where your child has the chance to be the star! Curious George is hosting his first ever 'Curious George Dance Contest'. Send in a video of your child doing their best monkey moves along to the Curious George theme song for a chance to win!

For more information, please visit: CuriousGeorgeDanceContest.com



CONTEST DATES: Video Submissions are due by April 2nd.

PUBLIC VOTING PERIOD: April 16th to April 30th.

WINNER ANNOUNCEMENT: For the name of winner, available after May 8 2012, visit www.curiousgeorgedancecontest.com

Four Great Reasons You and Your Child Should Spend Some Time Dancing Together:

1. Dancing Promotes Creativity - It encourages Self-Expression, done in early childhood it helps to develop creativity and creative problem solving will serve your child for life.

2. Dancing Strengthens Social and Emotional Development -  It helps a child express themselves and communicate with the world around them.

3. Active Learning - Children glean a greater understanding of spatial development via dance.

4. Dancing Promotes Fitness - The same Cardiovascular Endurance, Muscular Strength, and flexibility you gain from dance your child does too!

Does your child love Curious George? Does your child love to dance? Then grab your video camera and film your child dancing to the Curious George theme song for a chance to win. And if your child is already expressing hollywood aspirations, having their dance video featured on a Curious George DVD will help put them on their way that's for sure!

My nieces and nephews are too old to participate in the contest, but I just might get them to dance to it anyway and film them! (Hey our parents have dance videos of us, we should have some of the next generation too, to blackmail them with, ahem I mean reminisce with them about when they get older!)

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FTC Disclosure: I am a 'Curious George Moms' Brand Ambassador. My participation in this program comes with additional incentives. This post was sponsored in collaboration with Latina Bloggers Connect and WGBH.

Images Disclosure: CG (R)& (C) 2012 Universal Studios and/or HMH. All Rights Reserved. FOR PROMOTIONAL USE ONLY.

Monday, March 19, 2012

Monday Motivation: Are you a radiator?




Today's Question: Are you a radiator? Do you give out heat and warmth?

Today's Challenge: You can be that person that everyone looks forward to seeing, you know the one, the one that has a smile for everyone. A smile that somehow lights up a room. The person that has kind words for everyone. The one who avoids all the latest gossip. The one who doesn't repeat it when they do hear it.

When you have that light within and share it with others, it comes back to you! Your day gets that much brighter. You meet the right people. Because they found themselves drawn to you. If being a radiator doesn't come naturally to you, you can develop it! Challenge yourself today to exude the warmth that you want to see come back to you. Smile at the grumpy clerk, make sure to thank someone who holds a door for you, even when you don't feel like it, give out warmth today and watch what comes back when you do. And much like your favorite shampoo, REPEAT, repeat...and repeat.

Todays Affirmation: I am radiating a warmth that is appreciated by all of those around me.

Happy Monday Butterfly!

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Sunday, March 18, 2012

#Giveaway: Win a $100 Gift Card to @LandsEnd with @MomCentral + Discount Alert


The folks at Mom Central are hosting a $100 Lands End Gift Card Giveaway to help you get ready for swimsuit season!

Press on the banner above and be taken directly there! Note: Ascending Butterfly is NOT the host of this giveaway so please do NOT leave comments here, press the banner above and follow the instructions to be entered.

From now through Monday, March 19, enjoy 25% OFF regular-priced swimsuits and accessories from Lands' End! Even sweeter?...This sale includes free shipping with a $50 minimum purchase! Enjoy vintage island prints, and bold pops of color at 25% off all regular-priced swimsuits for women, men's and kids along with swim accessories including: Sandals, Totes, Beach Towels and Watershoes!

With my birthday coming up very soon, I'm feeling a strong sense of wanderlust and I'm thinking a new swimsuit is just what the 'vacation doctor' ordered!

When: Friday, March 16 (today) through Monday, March 19

Where: Head to landsend.com and start shopping at 25% off!

Happy Winning AND Happy Shopping Butterflies!

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FTC Disclosure: Bloggers sharing about this campaign are eligible to win a $100 Lands End gift card.

Saturday, March 17, 2012

Happy St. Pattys Day Butterflies!




I have a 'real' post coming soon, just a quick note to let you know that I am NOT on vacation (far from it) and I'm doing OK! I hope you  are having a very lucky day!

HOT GIVEAWAY ENDING SOON ALERT: Think you've got the moves? Ideology by Macys DOUBLE Giveaway! (ARV $100) Ends 03/19 - 1 winner! - 1 winner will receive their choice of Ideology Tank and Bottom as well as a Yoga Mat from Macy's! Enter HERE

Happy St. Patty's Day Butterflies!

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Wednesday, March 14, 2012

Wordless Wednesday: A Face Only A Mother Could Love!

So I still think Woola is the cutest part of the movie! Did you see John Carter yet? You can check out my no spoiler review HERE



Happy Wordless Wednesday Butterflies!

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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a sponsored post. I really do think that Woola is super sweet!

Tuesday, March 13, 2012

To Pin or Not To Pin? That is the question!



Calling all 'pinners'

I'm usually a Social Media early adopter, but for some reason I haven't yet checked out Pinterest. I don't know why, it seems like a good fit for me, as I love 'vision boards'. Vision boards are great tools to help make your dreams manifest into your reality, and I have often been told that Pinterest is like an online vision board. A visual 'bookmarks'/'favorites' that you can share with friends. (and you know I LOVE to share!)

A little something for everyone I've been told, Foodies can pin recipes, Fashionistas can pin dream outfits, but yet somehow I haven't felt this sense of urgency to take a peek.

Since my butterflies are definitely social media savvy, I thought I'd put the question to YOU: So butterflies, 'To Pin or Not To Pin' that is the question!

If you are a blogger, I'd love for you to weigh in on the question also! Do you find the traffic benefits are worth it? Do you allow people to 'pin' your blog photos, why or why not?

If you think I should check it out, include an invite with your recommendation! =)

So Butterfly, What's Your Pinterest?

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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a sponsored post. I am not a pinterest member. But I am totally curious as to whether or not it's worth it! :)

Monday, March 12, 2012

Think you've got the moves? Ideology by Macys DOUBLE Giveaway! (ARV $100) Ends 03/19 - 1 winner!

Macys Ideology It's Your Move Dance Video Contest!


Back in December of 2011 I had the chance to attend the launch of Ideology, a premiere fitness line being sold at Macy's. I had a really great time learning all about Ideology and if you missed my original post with my impressions about the line and photos from the event, click HERE. What impressed me then before having the opportunity to actually try any of the pieces, is exactly what impresses me about them now after having had the opportunity to actually try them out, they are really cut with a woman's curves in mind. As many a trip to the gym will tell you, not all workout gear is flattering, not all workout gear actually flatters your figure. Macy's Ideology line of fitness gear actually works with a woman's natural curves and are figure flattering as well comfortable. The pattern on the racerback tanks actually makes your waist appear 'cinched in' a good way. Ladies, you can now work up a sweat, and still look totally hot doing so!

Cheryl Burke, professional dancer and two time Dancing With The Stars Champion is the spokeswoman and face of the brand. Cheryl gets what it takes to make fitness clothes functional, they need to move with you, be comfortable, 'breathable', yet still trendy and fashionable. Ideology has that all on lock!

Now I'm sure you are wondering why this is a DOUBLE giveaway post right? If you have moves, and are not afraid to bring it, then Macy's has got something special for you! I'm sure my Butterfly Fashionistas are already 'liking' Macy's on Facebook, but if you are aren't, this sure may be incentive enough for you to do so. You know those wonderful fitness goals you've been working on since New Years? They just might be about to pay off. Macy's is hosting an 'It's Your Move Dance Contest' on Facebook. Cheryl Burke will determine the grand prize winner, but 5 Fan Favorites will also have a chance to win great prizes.

How it works:

1) Visit HERE on Facebook, then select a music track - You will be provided with 5 choices. Listen to each track and then decide which one you will use, download that track (no worries, it's a FREE download).

2) Here is the fun part: Choreograph and record yourself dancing to the track you selected in step 1. (It can be an individual dance or with a partner, please be sure to tell your partner you are entering a video contest!)

3) Upload your video + Fill out form and hit UPLOAD and you are good to go! But HURRY Butterflies your videos have to be uploaded by March 15th.

Grand Prize:

A VIP trip to Los Angeles including round trip airfare and accomodations for 2, where you will be Cheryl Burke's special guests at a taping of a TV show and enjoy a $1,000 ideology shopping spree!

5 Fan Favorites:

From March 16-29th, you will have a chance to vote on the videos - the top 5 videos will be awarded a $250 Ideology Shopping Spree.

Macy's Ideology Racerback Sleeveless Tank

I had the chance to try out the Sleeveless Striped Racerback Tank and the Ideology Pants Bootcut Leg Pull On, and find them super figure flattering and they make my work outs more fun and fashionable!

Macys Ideology Fitness Pants in three different lengths


Not a dancer? Not big on being on video? No worries, you don't leave here empty handed! I always take care of my butterflies! Macy's has a little something something for YOU too!

One lucky butterfly will have the option of selecting ONE tank and ONE bottom from the Ideology collection and a Yoga Mat (size and color based on in stock availability)! Check out the rafflecopter widget below to get in your entries!

Saturday, March 10, 2012

John Carter The Movie {Review}

Disney John Carter Theatrical Poster


On Thursday night I attended the 3D Imax Screening of Disney's John Carter.  The film chronicles the adventures of former Confederate Captain John Carter, the protagonist of Edgar Rice Burroughs' 11-volume Barsoom series. Hero John Carter is transported to Mars, known by its inhabitants as Barsoom and before John Carter can even figure out how he got there, he is drawn into the conflict among Barsoom's inhabitants, which includes the Helium people, the Tharks, and the  Zodanga.

John Carter played by Taylor Kitsch


Does John Carter ever get back home? That's for you to find out! I won't give you any spoilers, especially for those of you who like me, did not read the books before heading out to see the film. Sometimes reading the books before seeing a movie can be a total mixed bag, you become more critical of the casting, and whether or not the scenes are as you envisioned them to be in your imagination.

I definitely approached this Sci Fi/Adventure film with a totally open mind, but a book that is said to have inspired both Star Wars and Avatar certainly gives an audience big expectations. I have done some research on the history of the rights of the film and the different hands it passed through before it got to it's current team and director, and I read that Robert Rodriguez was once being considered to direct the film, and to some degree I wish that had remained the case, as his sense of pacing would have made the film so much better.

I will say the movie is well cast! The actors definitely gave it their all, but the films pacing and narrative falls a bit short.

Princess of Helium, Dejah Thoris, Played by Lynn Collins


I did love that (for the most part) the Princess of Helium, Dejah Thoris was no fearful shrinking violet who couldn't fight or think for herself. Princess and Regent of the Royal Academy of Science turns out to be a very fierce fighter, and Lynn Collins did a great job striking that balance. Her and John Carter (played by Taylor Kitsch, who you might remember as Tim Riggins in the NBC television series Friday Night Lights) have a great chemistry together and played off of each other well.

But the movie stealer is actually an enormous creature who is very loyal and sweet and looks like a cross between a dog and a dinosaur called 'Woola'. John Carter is the first person to come to Woola's rescue, and as a result Woola becomes very loyal to John and becomes his constant companion and loyal friend. The Woola has this 'aw factor' and endearing appeal that makes him an absolute scene stealer, somehow that face that only a mother could possibly love, becomes the character you find yourself rooting for!

Woola and John Carter, Scene from Disney Pictures John Carter Movie
In fact I was so charmed by Woola I've opted to share a clip of him in action:




Will John Carter make the 250 million dollar budget worth it? The audiences this weekend will decide, as for this butterfly, it's a two out of a possible five butterflies. The pace can get a bit draggy at times, and it's a long run time (so don't go on an empty stomach), I don't see it as a rival to Star Wars or Avatar, but it's an interesting enough start as we wait for this year's summer blockbusters.

 
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FTC Disclosure: I attended the John Carter Screening as a member of the Digital Press. No compensation has been received by Ascending Butterfly for this review. This is NOT a spsonored post.

Wednesday, March 7, 2012

Wordless Wednesday - Welcome Darlings!


Happy Wordless Wednesday Butterflies!


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Tuesday, March 6, 2012

Snack Rut? How does Chocolate and Truffles strike you?



I have had a life long love of travel, and each trip I have had the fortune of taking be it for business or pleasure always has a special memory that is unique to that particular trip. For me it's not about coming back with a ton of dust catchers that get stored away to never see the light of day. I take tons of pictures, visit places on and off the beaten path, and enjoy experiences, sometimes it's the arts, sometimes it's culinary, sometimes it's just being still like at a tropical beach at sunset.

I'm a music lover and somehow am always thinking music and soundtracks to moments in my life. They say smells take us back to a time and place, pictures can do that, tastes can do that and so can music. Everytime I hear Tony Bennett's - (I Left My Heart) In San Francisco, my mind races right back to my very first trip to the city by the bay!

I was there for a convention but everytime I travel I make it a point to factor in some 'ME' time. Time to just let my feet and my mind wander. And one of my favorite 'me' time moments was a visit to Ghiardelli Square. Where I got my first introduction to a brand who had actually relocated there in 1895. Ghirardelli square is where the flagship Ghirardelli Chocolate Ice Cream and Chocolate Shop is located. And the place where I got my first introduction to the brand and their delectable chocolate. I got to try some there, and bought some that I tore into sitting outside where a local band was playing. I picked up several CD's from that band, and each time I hear them I am brought back to that moment. It is a cherished memory for me. And while much like Tony Bennett's song I fear that I may have really left my heart in San Francisco, air travel is expensive, and I don't get out there nearly as much as I'd like, but the closest I can come to an escape is putting on my CD's that I bought at the square and enjoying some Ghirardelli Chocolate at home.

Ghirardelli Milk and Truffle Stand Up Bag


While I love most of the stuff I have tried from Ghirardelli throughout the years, I keep going back for their signature squares. My absolute favorite being their Dark Chocolate Raspberry. They are rich and satisfying, a decadent escape indeed and also always take me back to sitting on the square and enjoying my find!

So when given the opportunity to try the Ghirardelli Milk Chocolate with Truffle Filling SQUARESTM, I definitely jumped at the chance. Chocolate AND Truffles? Um, YES Please.

Many moons ago, when financial firms still existed I worked in a firm that had a truffle shop in the lobby. A truffle shop that made each truffle by hand, I was obsessed with that shop, and haven't ever really had a truffle that compared. Ghirardelli's Milk & Truffle Squares were definitely a sensory delight from 'square one' (really no pun intended, well maybe a little), they took me back to two very pleasant memories, my visit to San Francisco's Ghirardelli Square, and my favorite New York City Truffle Shop all in one bite!

Ghirardelli Milk and Truffle Squares


It also somewhat got me out of my Ghirardelli snack rut because each time I reach for the squares when I'm shopping I end up with the Ghirardelli Dark Chocolate Raspberry Stand up Bag which had been becoming a bit of a snack obsession for me until the Milk Chocolate with Truffle filling came along! In my eyes, I'm not really cheating on my favorite snack, since I'm just hanging out with a different variation.....

If you are stuck in a Snack Rut, let Ghirardelli wake up your taste buds! You can get social with Ghirardelli on Facebook and of course, don't forget to tell them you saw them featured here on Ascending Butterfly! (Who knows, maybe you can sway them to return with a fun reader giveaway!)

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FTC Disclosure: I received the product for this review for free, courtesy of Ghirardelli and SheSpeaks. However, all opinions are 100% my own. I am disclosing this information in accordance with the Federal Trade Commisions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. Our full Giveaway Rules and Disclosure Policy can be found HERE.

Monday, March 5, 2012

Monday Motivation



Some Monday Motivation For You! Hope your week is off to a great start!

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Sunday, March 4, 2012

Weekly Moment of Gratitude! + Active Giveaways! + Events + WINS!



This week, I am grateful for:


Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ -  Happy News! (Which I've been long overdue for in my life lately!) - I found out that I was selected as part of Duane Reade's NY VIP Blogger Program! And I found out via my favorite part of the 'SocialMediaVerse', Twitter of course, check out the tweet that put a smile on my face HERE. While many people participated, only 10 New York City based Bloggers were chosen and I am one of them. For all those butterflies who tweeted a vote on my behalf THANK YOU! I am super excited and promise to work hard. And I hope to be able to share great deals with you too! I'm a #DReadeVIP, last year I enjoyed my time as a Blogger Brand Ambassador for Kmart's Latina Smart program and I'm looking forward to working with Duane Reade in 2012.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - A Win! I don't often get too much time to enter giveaways (as I'm mostly hosting them), but I entered a giveaway in conjunction with the New York Toy Fair this year and won! I won a Wonderworld Toys Smart Gear Balance Bike! The news definitely brought a smile to my face.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Another Win! I won a conference pass to Hispanicize! I now have to find sponsorship so I can get out there! The conference is 6 days after my birthday, sounds like a nice birthday present!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Events: I attended an amazing event where I had the opportunity to see the inner workings of a brand with heart, if you didn't have a chance to read the recap of The Royal Asscher event, check it out HERE. I have some fun ones coming up this week, including a screening of Disney's John Carter!

While there is still a bit of confusion in my life as of late, this week was a fresh breeze of relief that makes me feel things are really turning around, and good things are finally headed my way this year! With a few weeks before my birthday, I remember the saying that says your real new year is not December 31st or January 1st, but the actual day of your birthday. I'd like to beleive that is true, as my January New Year wasn't the best ever this year, but these weeks leading up to my actual birthday just feel so filled with hope! I have a strong feeling, that this year, on this particular birthday, the doors will finally open and a floodgate of opportunities are being sent my way!

Hope all my butterflies are having an amazing weekend!

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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

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Active Giveaway:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Press Directly on Description to link to giveaway: Ascending Butterfly Monthly Book Club: Chicken Soup for the Soul: Devotional Stories for Tough Times Book Giveaway! Ends 03/25 <-This book has brought me a great deal of hope, and the prayers are spoking so directly and with a simple, yet raw honesty, that they truly touched my soul. I genuinely hope that the winner of this giveaway finds this book to be a huge blessing and source of hope that helps them find the words and faith to pray their life onto a better path.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - {Coming Soon} : The return of our monthly Featured Handbag in the Spotlight with a handbag from Nicole Miller! (A perfect handbag for a night out!) + Our friends at Smashbox are coming back for a Spring Beauty Promotion with a collection that you will certainly want to add to your beauty bag this Spring!

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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:
















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

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FTC Disclosure: Journal Recommendation uses an Amazon Affiliate Link.

Friday, March 2, 2012

Who is on your ⒻⓄⓁⓁⓄⓌ Friday List? - Happy #FollowFriday #Butterflies!



So you know I'm fondly considered 'The Official #TwitterPartyDJ' because I love spinning virtual tunes during twitter parties and I'm always thinking music.

I'm also known for my extensive Follow Friday tweets. Lately time hasn't allowed me to do them every Friday, but I try to do them as often as I can. I see them as the equivalent of penpal letters, remember those? They made mail FUN. To me, Follow Friday makes twitter fun. They say Follow Friday is becoming a thing of the past and I certainly hope not!

So Butterflies, Who is on YOUR Twitter Follow Friday List? Do you still Follow Friday?

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Thursday, March 1, 2012

Rated P For Parenthood @RatedPMusical {Theatre Review}


There is a new musical playing at Broadway's Westside Theatre in New York City. Rated P For Parenthood made it's New York Premiere at the Westside Theatre off Broadway on February 8th with the official opening held February 26th. I had the opportunity to preview it last week and really enjoyed the mix of music, comedy, and how it captured the good, the bad and the ugly of parenting from a variety of perspectives.

Rated P For Parenthood Entire Cast in Delivery Vignette

The show, which features book and lyrics by Sandy Rustin and music and lyrics by Dan Lipton and David Rossmer has a unique take on parenting from conception to college. With a four person cast carrying the 90 minute show, it's a fast paced ride that shares both the joys and pains of parenthood.  The cast features Courtney Balan (who has played in I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change), Chris Hoch (who has played in Broadway's La Cage Aux Folles 2010 Revival), David Josefsberg (who has played in Broadway's The Wedding Singer) and Joanna Young (who played in Broadway's The Drowsy Chaperone). Director Jeremy Dobrish and Choreographer Rachel Bress keep a brisk and enjoyable pace to the vignette performances that keeps the audience engaged all the way through.

Butterflies you all know I'm not yet a mom, but this play isn't restricted to parents only despite the Parenthood title! I found it sometimes funny, sometimes touching and constantly engaging and entertaining, in fact I went to see it with my mom, and if you get the chance I'd advise you to do the same. Be it your mom, spouse or your bestie, I'm sure you'll be poking each other in the ribs and laughing together in no time! There are so many relatable moments. Some stand out vignettes included a total hysterical performance of Dad's perspective on taking the kids up to summer camp (no spoilers, but it's super funny and I won't say why), a mom up late because of her crying baby (touching), Dads waiting for their childrens Parent/Teacher conference (funny!), and very funny bit about moms and their childrens soccer coach. Again no spoilers, but those were definitely stand out performances.

Rated P for Parenthood Entire Cast in Summer Camp Vignette
While I'm not sure I'll ever be ready for Destination Parenthood, this play certainly chronicles the journey well! I definitely recommend it!

“Rated P for Parenthood” is currently running at the Westside Theatre (for an open ended run so I'm thinking it's the PERFECT Mother's Day or Father's Day gift for your mom or dad), the theatre is located at 407 W. 43rd St., New York. Call (212) 239-6200 or visit www.ratedpthemusical.com. You can also get social with Rated P for Parenthood on Facebook as well as Twitter.

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FTC Disclosure: I was provided with tickets to this play as a member of the Digital press, no additional compensation has been received. All opinions are 100% my own. I was under no obligation to post.

Wednesday, February 29, 2012

Not So Wordless Wednesday: Champagne and Diamonds Event in NYC - Royal Asscher Diamonds, Where Luxury Meets HEART!


Last week I was invited to a Champagne and Diamonds Event, and I have to admit, being born in the month of April (which makes Diamonds my birthright ahem I mean birthstone) I was quite a bit intrigued about what the night would bring! As a girl who of course loves Diamonds, I already knew that the Asscher Cut Diamonds are considered to be among the Worlds Finest. And now the 21st Century brings The Royal Asscher Cut, a signature diamond cut for Royal Asscher.



It is very rare for a brand to open their doors and allow you in for a full behind the scenes no holds barred sneak peek. And bloggers, editors and socialites alike enjoyed an evening in New York City's infamous Diamond District sipping Champagne and learning all about the history of the Asscher Diamond Company run by Fifth and Sixth Generation Asschers upholding a 160 year old tradition of Diamond excellence and innovation. Over 90% of Royal Asscher Diamonds are above VS2 clarity!

An Amazing History:

Both the Excelsior and Cullinan Diamond's were cleaved by the Asscher Family, specifically by Abraham Asscher (Excelsior - 997 carats) and Joseph Asscher (Cullinan - 3,105 carats) respectively. The two largest stones cut from the Cullinan Diamond, called Cullinan 1 and Cullinan 2 can be found in Great Britain's Crown Jewels.

Edward Asscher stands in front of a photo of his Grandfather, Joseph Asscher as he cleaves the Cullinan Diamond

Getting the chance to learn of the company's history and charitable works directly from Edward Asscher was certainly un-forgettable, and team Asscher couldn't have been more personable or more welcoming.

Replica of the Imperial State Crown which contains the Cullinan 1 and 2 Diamonds

The replica for Kate Middleton's Diamond Tiara was also on display and while this isn’t Kate’s official tiara, nor is it the tiara she wore on her wedding day, the tiara was inspired by Kate and is an absolute stunner! (See Photo Below):

Kate Middleton Tiara designed by Royal Asscher’s Reena Ahluwalia

Where Luxury Meets Heart

The Asscher Family has made a commitment to Social Good that extends way beyond just avoiding 'blood diamonds', they don't source from Sierra Leone so all of their Diamonds are considered 'conflict free' but despite the fact they don't use Diamonds from Sierra Leone, they still give back to Africa. They have three main iniatives that I wanted to share with Ascending Butterfly readers because I love when brands find ways to give back!

Stars of Africa:

The Stars of Africa Collection (named after the largest Diamond ever found, The Star of Africa (aka Cullinan Diamond), is a fundraising initiative launched in 2009,  to improve the infrastructure in Africa by creating funding for healthcare, education and self-sufficiency programs with a portion of the proceeds from each piece in the Stars of Africa Collection. The collection is incredibly fashion forward (it includes rings, pendants, cufflinks, colliers and earrings) and have been fondly nicknamed by many 'The Diamond Snow Globes' as the Diamonds are suspended in a silicone fluid that allows them to appear to float.

Stars of Africa Diamond Rings

The floating diamond part came from my love affair with snow globes. It’s always so mesmerizing, I can't stop staring at them, and I have noticed many agree with me. It is such a beautiful concept; it keeps you looking at it all day.” – Lita Asscher

I have to admit to being a bit obsessed with this collection, as it combines two joys of mine, Diamonds (which are certainly this April Baby's best friend) and GIVING. I got to meet Lita Asccher, Royal Asscher's President, during the Champagne and Diamond's event and her passion for helping the people of Sierra Leone is very much infectious!

The Diamond Empowerment Fund - A non-profit international organization

Mission

Founded in 2007, The Diamond Empowerment Fund™ (D.E.F.) is a non-profit international organization with the mission to raise money to support education initiatives that develop and empower economically disadvantaged people in African nations where diamonds are a natural resource.

Seven Bar

Royal Asscher Special Collection in support of Seven Bar Foundation. A Foundation which empowers women via microfinance by helping them out of poverty and into business. Available on CoutureLab. Every sale results in a 25% retail profit to benefit the Foundation and women around the world.

Edward Asscher hinted that another philanthropic effort is in the works and once I have more details I'll be sure to share it with you my butterflies!

More behind the scenes photos:


Left: Lita Asscher Right: Edward Asscher, Father and Daughter face behind the Royal Asscher Brand

Had my camera had burst mode, I would have caught a very sweet kiss on the cheek that Edward gave Lita!


Left: Lita Asscher, Center: Ascending Butterfly, Right: Edward Asscher


Left: Ascending Butterfly, Center: Edward Asscher, Right: Mama Butterfly

I love that Royal Asscher is where Luxury meets Heart. The Asscher Family is incredibly down-to-earth, Socially Conscious, Innovative and Fun. I have to say living in the City that Never Sleeps has its perks, but this evening of Champagne and Diamonds, wasn't just another night in New York City, it was an honor and a pleasure! You can stay updated with Royal Asscher on both Facebook and Twitter or sign up for their newsletter.
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FTC Disclosure: Gift Bags were provided to event attendees. All opinions are 100% my own. No additional compensation has been received.

Monday, February 27, 2012

#CloroxLounge Last Comic Sitting Contest - How a little Potty Humor can make you $10,000 richer!



We are a 3 generations Clorox loyal family, it's one of those products on my shopping list, that I will not substitute. And I think The Clorox® ToiletWand™ system is pure genius! It definitely makes the chore of keeping the toilet clean a whole lot easier! and it's so simple it's kids, teens and 'honey' proof, there is no way to goof it up and so easy to use that there are no excuses.

You know how they say when home shopping look for the kitchen and bathroom of your dreams first? I totally get that because let's face it, those are the rooms you will end up spending the most time in. I like spa like bathrooms, they are usually the only oasis of calm in the home. You can go in there, close the door behind you and make the insanity of your day stop, even if it's just for a moment.

And for those of us who are apartment dwellers and don't have back yards, toilets become the final resting place to many a beloved family fish! Telling the little ones we are releasing the fish's spirit back to the Ocean always seems to work! I'm not big on rodents as pets, but I do know some families who have also sent off hamsters and gerbils this way too! I have a trumpet song already on the ipod we can use during the 'services'. What is your craziest use of the family commode? You can share that here if you'd like, but you may want to also share that at The Clorox Lounge instead as they can offer way bigger incentives to do so than I can!

About The Clorox Lounge:

A community hub designed to be mom’s gotta go place for comedy, features hilarious anecdotes, fun contests, exciting give-a-ways, coupons and just the right amount of comic relief. Hosted by comedian, actress and mom Sherri Shepherd of  ABC's The View.

About Last Comic Sitting Competition and Sweepstakes:

The Clorox Lounge activities kick-off with Last Comic Sitting Competition and Sweepstakes, starting February 27, 2012. Over the course of eight weeks, 10 of the funniest mom and dad comics will go head-to-head in a stand-up throw-down for the chance to sit on the throne and be crowned the Last Comic Sitting. Each week, they’ll face a new challenge and based on your votes, one will be eliminated. The grand prize winner will receive $10,000. For four weeks, you will have the opportunity to vote and narrow the comics down to the top mom and top dad.

What's in it for ME?

Well, funny you should ask! Simply visit The Clorox Lounge to sign-up and be automatically entered for a chance to win the top prize. I don't know about you, but I could certainly use $10,000! (With all this medical drama I've been going through, making every penny count right now is super important!) You can generate up to two additional entries each day, per day, by logging in and commenting, until April 22, 2012. Fans can also enter for a chance to win cool prize packs. Ten prizes will be given each week, for twelve weeks, until April 22, 2012.

Will you Take the Ode to the Commode?


So if the prize packs or the 10K aren't enough incentive, they are also offering dicount product coupons and a fun community where you can share your parenting stories and tips and get tips from other parents as well. If you are one of the weekly winners, please come back here and let us know!

Additional Contest Deets:

You may receive one additional entry into the Grand Prize drawing each day by logging-in, commenting on a blog post, photo, or video for a maximum of two (2) entries in the drawing for the Grand Prize each day.

Entry Limit: Each entrant may receive a maximum of two (2) entries into the Grand Prize drawing per day during the Promotion Period.

One Sweepstakes Grand Prize: $10,000.

One Hundred Twenty (120) Weekly Prizes (10 per week): A Toilet Prize Pack. ARV: $50.

Prize Limit: one prize per person per week.

Weekly Drawing Dates: February 7, February 15, February 22, February 29, March 7, March 14, March 21, March 28, April 4, April 11, April 18, April 25, Grand Prize Drawing Date:April 25. Non-winning entries from each Weekly Entry Period will not be included in subsequent Weekly Entry Period drawings.


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FTC Disclosure: I wrote this blog post while participating in the SocialMoms and Clorox® blogging program, for 8,000 My SocialMoms Rewards Points. For more information on how you can participate, click here.