Thursday, November 17, 2016

Remember when Kissing meant something? #ThursdayTalk

This post is inspired by, but NOT SPONSORED by Glamour's Women of the Year Awards.



Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Remember when Kissing actually meant something?

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - When was the last time a kiss took your breath away?

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - When was the last time talking to your crush gave you butterflies in your stomach?

While watching an Entertainment News Story that was covering Glamour's Women of the Year Awards, a simple quote made me actually look away from my computer and up at my TV screen, Gwen Stefani was honored as 2016's Woman of the Year during the Glamour's Women of the Year Awards in Hollywood, California and during her speech she said something that has stuck with me since I heard it: (this is a snippet of her acceptance speech):

"I just want to say thank you to my parents for that gift of faith," she told the audience. "I want to say thank you to everyone who ever listened to my music. I am so honored and grateful." She continued, getting choked up, "To my children, to my family, to Blake Shelton for kissing me back to life, thank you so much. I am blown away, I'm blown away by this room of unbelievable courage. It's unbelievable to be here tonight. I am really, really grateful." ~Gwen Stefani

I rarely get 'event envy' - I attend amazing ones here in New York City all the time, but I truly wish I could have been there to see/hear her say it.

Oh to be a fly on that wall.

I would have loved to have witnessed the reactions for myself.

In fact, I would love to know what your *REAL* first reaction to that sentence is, before you think about it, before you cautiously consider - write and then re-write your answer. (Did you mentally go all "Bitter Betty" and think 'UGH', "Jaded Jane" and think 'yeah right' or are you a "Swooning Sally" whose heart beats romantic all the time?)

My Take:

I am writing this and listening to Evanesence "Bring Me to Life" and contemplating how that simple yet boldly powerful statement made by Gwen Stefani reminds of a time when kissing and romance was a bit less complex, was *almost* (and I do say almost)... easier.

I want to jokingly say that Blake Shelton must be a damn good kisser, but I get what she means by it.

But as a single gal in New York City who is not into kissing every random frog that comes hopping along my path (hoping one of them might be that elusive Prince), I wonder if I will ever truly experience a "Kiss that Brings Me Back to Life" - I vaguely remember butterflies in my stomach, but don't think I have yet had a kiss that brought me back to life or helped me 'get my life' either.

I hope that this expression "Kiss me back to life" actually becomes bigger and finally drowns out the term 'conscious un-coupling', coined by Gwyneth Paltrow after her messy divorce. Maybe this quote will have more impact than that one. Imagine a world where we have more people open to love and romance and less plotting how to civilly break away from one another....(and I'll refrain from mentioning that affairs caused so much heart ache and heart break for both Gwen and Gwyneth -perhaps a post exploring why men on cheat on amazing women is a topic to be explored?)

I could also write a book on weird dating experiences in the city that never sleeps! But that my dear butterflies is a story for another day.

(And by the way that is a photo prop in my hand in the photo above, NOT my lips!!!)

Readers Sound Off: Have you ever experienced a 'Kiss that brought you back to life'? Do you think a kiss can really do all that?

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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a Compensated or sponsored Post, (while perhaps it should be) and all thoughts and opinions are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

Things that lure Ascending Butterfly out of her butterfly cocoon of fabulosity: Electronics/Technology (yes I am a Gadget Geek first!), Fashion, Jewelry, Bubbly/Spirits, Foodie/Restaurants, Photography and Travel. And remember Ascending Butterfly does NOT have children, please do not pitch her toys (at least not those that are intended for children).

If a campaign doesn't pay, this butterfly won't want to play.

Smile if you got this far, twirl around twice and sing Mariah Carey Butterfly.

Still here? Now go make someone happy today.

Tuesday, November 8, 2016

Just Keep Calm and Chew Gum - Did you kiss a Democrat or a Republican? {#ElectionDay2016 #Humor}

Consider this an early Wordless Wednesday but it was just too good to pass up!



And there is a Gum for the two major parties:


So, did you kiss a Democrat or a Republican today?

Make sure you rock the vote + if you can add kissing to the mix all the better right?

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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a Compensated or sponsored Post, (while perhaps it should be) I took a picture of these at the NYNOW Market Tradeshow, I did NOT get a sample of them, haven't tasted them. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

Things that lure Ascending Butterfly out of her butterfly cave: Electronics/Technology, Fashion, Jewelry, Appliances, Bubbly/Spirits, Foodie/Restaurants and Travel. And remember Ascending Butterfly does NOT have children, please do not pitch her toys.

If a campaign doesn't pay, this butterfly won't want to play.

Smile if you got this far, twirl around twice and sing Mariah Carey Butterfly.

Still here? Now go make someone happy today.

Monday, November 7, 2016

{#MotivationMonday} Put a little 'zen' in your election week with the Buddhas of @nynowmarket #NYNOW #Decor #Lifestyle

With election week coming up I thought I would put a little touch of zen in your election week with the Buddhas I found at New York Now Market which a Lifestyle and Décor Tradeshow held in NYC.

You know I keep politics off this page so let's not get into the WHO and just say that 'no vote' this time around is NOT an option, so please rock the vote, and in the meantime, let these pretty photos put some zen in your election week!

My décor style has always been modern zen and you will find a touch of Buddha in almost every room in my home. They bring me a sense of peace and that's just what you want when you come back home after a long stressful day. (Notice the touch of butterflies to the right on the photo above? More on these to come)

I like Meditating Buddha Statues as well and have one in my bedroom (although mine is not blue). I like this calming shade - it's where ocean blue and turquoise meet. and the glass lotus in front of them is a cute touch too.

What do you think about the mottled/weathered look of these? I know I can't pass a Buddha Statue with a big belly without rubbing it for good luck! How about you?

While I still might give the jewelry category from the tradeshow it's own day in the sun, this Buddha was on display at one of my favorite jewelry designers, BUDHAGIRL, who as you may remember we featured before when we partnered with them for a giveaway of this breath-taking bangle bracelet. (Please note that giveaway is CLOSED now). I was so happy to see them again and learn what's new, hopefully we can partner them again soon! (Check out the Budhagirl website and let me know what pieces catch your eye.......no promises, just sayin)

MY TAKE:

The stress of this Election Week has already taken it's toll leading up to it. Remember that the very right to vote is one we fought so hard for, be sure to exercise the option. Just because you HAVE it. Remember there are those that still don't.

Please refrain from commenting with your candidate choice, this post is not for a debate, it's just a fun way to ease election stress with a touch of zen, so here is my suggested talking point for this post:

What is your Décor Style? Do you like Modern Zen as much as I do?

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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a Compensated Post, (while perhaps it should be) Media Access to the NYNOW Market Tradeshow was granted for Editorial Consideration and NOTHING more, all thoughts and opinions are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

Things that lure Ascending Butterfly out of her butterfly cave: Electronics, Jewelry, Appliances, Bubbly/Spirits, Foodie/Restaurants and Travel. And remember Ascending Butterfly does NOT have children, please do not pitch her toys.

If a campaign doesn't pay, this butterfly won't want to play.

Smile if you got this far, twirl around twice and sing Mariah Carey Butterfly.

Still here? Now go make someone happy today.

Friday, October 21, 2016

Initial thoughts on The Rocky Horror Picture Show: Let's Do the Time Warp Again @RockyHorrorFOX #RockyHorror



I just finished watching both The Rocky Horror Picture Show: Let's Do the Time Warp Again Fox TV Reboot, followed by the original on Logo the #cocktailsandclassics version where guest stars share their impressions during the movie breaks. My mom mixed up a batch of cocktails, and it was fitting we watch it together as she introduced me to the original movie. (Don't be jelly because I have the coolest mom eva!)

The Re-Boot Cast:

Laverne Cox as Dr. Frank-N-Furter
Victoria Justice as Janet Weiss
Ryan McCartan as Brad Majors
Annaleigh Ashford as Columbia
Adam Lambert as Eddie
Reeve Carney as Riff-Raff
Christina Milian as Magenta
Staz Nair as Rocky
Ivy Levan as Trixie, the Usherette
Ben Vereen as Dr. Everett von Scott
Tim Curry as the Narrator/Criminologist
Jayne Eastwood as The Butler
Kelly Van der Burg as Betty Hapschatt-Munroe

I have to admit I watched it setting it out to *hate* it. I just don't like re-boots, so far they have *all* disappointed me, until now.

I have watched the original so many times I didn't think anyone would do any of it any justice. And let's face it, as a New Yorker, could anyone play it better than a NYC Midnight Screening Audience? Probably Not! Barry Bostwick who played Brad Majors in the original movie, was interviewed on Logo last night during #cocktailsandclassics and he described what the scene was like at the NYC midnight screenings to a tee.

My impressions of the cast performances? I'm so glad you asked:

Tim Curry - seeing him as the Narrator/Criminologist was both heartwarming and heartbreaking. It just didn't feel real that he wouldn't be Dr. Frank-N-Furter but I was so glad he was there in some way. I can't help but think it must have been hard to watch the reboot for him on so many levels.

And I have to put a flashback photo of Tim Curry in his iconic role of Dr. Frank-N-Furter:



Ivy Levan as Trixie, the Usherette - She opens the re-boot with a good deal of sass and energy. Trixie was the original Usherette for the Rocky Horror Show and sang Science Fiction/Double Feature. Patricia Quinn (who played Magenta in TRHPS) was also Trixie for the original stage version.

Here's a throwback to the original:



Laverne Cox - If this makes sense she made the doc somewhat less 'dark' - she brought a lighter touch to the character which was surprisingly refreshing! Tim Curry's Dr. Frank-N-Furter is a bit darker than the doc in this version.

Victoria Weiss - There is something funnier about her Janet being led to the 'dark' side of lust and life, somehow Susan's Janet struck me as an undercover freak so her antics never fully surprised me!

Ryan McCartan - Ryan gets his traction as Brad more toward the middle of the movie for some reason but overall I enjoyed his portrayal.

Annaleigh Ashford as Columbia - She should look familiar if you watch Showtime's Master's of Sex as Betty Dimello. She is honestly my FAVORITE of the cast. She literally plays Columbia to pure perfection. But then again she rocked it in my fave play Kinky Boots as well so I should have known she would dominate the role.

Laura Elizabeth "Little Nell" Campbell was the one who played Columbia in The Rocky Horror Show - In 1986 she opened the nightclub Nell's on W. 14th St in Manhattan and it was one of my fave clubs, did you ever hit Nell's? It was pretty much Webster Hall, Paladium and Nell's for me back then!

Here is a throwback photo of Laura as Columbia:



Reeve Carney as Riff-Raff - I wasn't living for his performance, they nail the look, but I didn't totally feel it with Reeve.

Christina Milian as Magenta - I think she over did her performance to be honest. Reeve underwhelmed me as Riff Raff and Christina was just plain trying too hard and because of that comes up short.

Staz Nair as Rocky - I can't tell you how much I love that he played Rocky as being 'in on the joke'. And I knew he looked familiar and Viggle Trivia confirmed it, he was Qhono on my favorite show Game of Thrones (GoT). He was one of the Dothraki that was contemplating raping Daenarys, I hated him so much on GoT, and love him so much in Rocky Horror.

Adam Lambert as Eddie - Adam definitely brings the right energy to the role, and all of ya'll saying this was Eddie after weight watchers, you are all just plain mean! LOL

Ben Vereen as Dr. Everett von Scott - I did not like him in the role. I like the actor, but he just added nothing to the role. In an interview with Today, Vereen talked about the mission of the remake, saying that:

"It’s a tribute to the original, you cannot reinvent, you cannot touch the original, so we are paying homage to those who went before us." ~ Ben Vereen


My Take:

This has to be one of the most respectful reboots that I have seen in awhile. I think Ben Vereen did describe it best, it's a 'tribute' to the original it's an homage, the movie can't be re-invented, but this an enjoyable reboot in my humble opinion.

Fox got this one right!

And watching it with my mom who introduced me to the original, us throwing stuff at the screen, dancing the time warp and sipping cocktails was another great memory I will always have of the movie.

It was pure fun and silliness for me last night!

Did you watch The Rocky Horror Picture Show: Let's Do the Time Warp Again? If so, what did YOU think of it?

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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a Compensated Post, (while perhaps it should be), all thoughts and opinions are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure. Things that lure Ascending Butterfly out of her hermit hive: Electronics, Jewelry, Appliances, Bubbly/Spirits, Foodie/Restaurants and Travel. And remember Ascending Butterfly does NOT have children, please do not pitch her toys. If a campaign doesn't pay, this butterfly probably won't want to play. Smile if you got this far, twirl around twice and sing Mariah Carey Butterfly. Still here? Now go make someone happy today.

Monday, October 10, 2016

{#MotivationMonday} @TheMoms @Ford @WarriorsinPink @KChenoweth #MoreGoodDays Luncheon @TheCarlyleHotel

Although I am not a parent I am a long time member of The Moms Network and in October 2012 they hosted an event for Breast Cancer Awareness where Martini Rossi gave $10,000 to actress/singer Kristen Chenoweth's Foundation Maddie's Corner, to be allocated to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation and Right Action for Women. You can see my coverage of the first event HERE.

Things came full circle when they hosted the event again, this time hosted by Ford at The Carlyle Hotel in New York City, where current Cancer Warriors including this time Denise Albert, co-founder of The Moms Network, who is herself now battling Breast Cancer.

Instead of just describing events I thought I would share the video taken at the event instead:


This also saves me days of trying to edit, optimize and watermark my own photos which feels like hours of hell considering the FLU has knocked me on my butt for the past two weeks! So thank goodness for venue photographers right? You can see The MOMS coverage with more photos from the #MoreGoodDays Mamarazzi event HERE.

Here are a select few of my own photos that sum up the range of emotions:



Now I've got a ton of 'ugly cry' photos that I will spare you of, the video is enough to give you the feels, but if you really want to see those let me know and I will try to make a pinterest board for this event when my fever goes somewhere below boiling.

MY TAKE:

I think the one thing readers appreciate about me is my 'good, bad and ugly' approach to everything, when it comes to the truth you will definitely find it here!

As even handed as possible, here is my rundown and personal feelings:

GOOD: You already know my mom is a Survivor which is why I attended the first event with her, and you know what I have been going through personally when it comes to Cancer (although my cancer color would be teal not pink for what I went through which I actually didn't know until very recently). So I take the cause seriously and brands that support it. Ford has supported Warriors In Pink for 22 years now. The courageous women who shared their cancer battles/journeys were definitely an inspiration. Denise catching her Cancer early and using the media as a platform to share her story with others is also an inspiration, and I am glad she is courageously sharing her story.

BAD: Sorry but there were things I can't exactly gloss over. While the Carlyle is certainly a prestigious venue, it was a very small room for the amount of people, and when folks butts are rubbing across your back for an hour it felt a bit more confining than it did 'intimate'. I think the first venue, while also intimate, gave a bit more breathing room.

UGLY: And my last but not least sorry not sorry is that I usually feature the gift bags when I attend an event, and on the outside they were lovely but the contents were all a size small. I did reach out to the PR firm and ask to swap the items but they refused to do so. UM, color me confused, but wouldn't you want two cancer survivors wearing the clothes in their own size and talking about "More Good Days"? We were happy to send the items back to exchange them. But that was a no go. I also wish Kristen Chenoweth's new CD had been in there. The PR firm was lovely enough to tell me where I could buy all of them. (As if I didn't know. ahem. let's just leave that there.)

Besides this specific event, here are my feelings when October rolls around as a Cancer Warrior Myself:

I take on very few Editorials during October for Breast Cancer Awareness, everyone slaps something pink on their site and then think when they reach out to survivors that we are required to give them a free product placement. Warriors have bills people and we can't pay our mortgages, car note or buy food with a picture of your pink product.

Sorry Not Sorry, but the legit reporter in me has questions the moment your emails hit my inbox:

  • How much of the proceeds are being donated to the cause?
  • What do you do throughout the year, not just October?

And of course who gets labeled the "B" of Blogging"? Me! Maybe I should change my blog's name (or is that name already taken?), I was considering a re-branding anyway. Sorry darlings while I like Wool during these long, cold North East Winters, I certainly don't like Wool over my eyes.

Now back to the event, I loved hearing other survivor's share their journey, there is a vein of similarity in so many stories, humor and music is what got so many people through their battles and chemo/radiation, and I loved that this event combined both, yes there were moments with 'the feels', and 'ugly tears' (thug tears folks!) too, but being given one more good day really is a gift.

And the reminder that having a 'bad day', and having one more 'good day' really isn't the same thing, put your perceived problems into perspective and on this Motivation Monday let's take a moment to send Good Vibes to both MEN and WOMEN everywhere battling Cancer and hoping for One More Good Day.

Giveaway Alert:

Ford Warriors in Pink is giving away a FORD FUSION, so don't forget to take a moment to ENTER. And Ford Warriors in Pink Gear that Gives can be purchased HERE.

Happy Motivation Monday Butterflies!

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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a Compensated Post, (while perhaps it should be), all thoughts and opinions are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure. Things that lure Ascending Butterfly out of her hermit hive: Electronics, Jewelry, Appliances, Bubbly/Spirits, Foodie/Restaurants and Travel. And remember Ascending Butterfly does NOT have children, please do not pitch her toys. If a campaign doesn't pay, this butterfly probably won't want to play. Smile if you got this far, twirl around twice and sing Mariah Carey Butterfly. Still here? Now go make someone happy today.

Tuesday, September 27, 2016

Last time my @angelodavidhair haircut was for @pantene #beautifullengths but this time it was just for ME! #TressesTuesday #Hair


When an invite to 'Get Gorgeous During NYFW (New York Fashion Week)' hits my inbox and it's from my favorite New York City Salon, I am definitely ALL over it. My love for Angelo David Salon and my Fave Stylist Ivy runs deep, I met them at Getting Gorgeous 2014, and a few months later I went to the salon for a very special haircut - I donated over 13 inches of hair to Pantene Beautiful Lengths (PBL) for women with Cancer. Check out the current PBL #8or8 campaign - where you can either donate 8 inches of hair or donate $8 dollars to help the cause!

You know just how seriously this butterfly takes all cancer related charities! Stay tuned on a Special Luncheon I will be attending later this week.

I hit the Angelo David Salon in between Fashion Week Shows this year and while oddly my hair was super long (almost near my waist), I didn't have enough to donate because I was leaving it a bit longer than last time. The top two photos of the Photo Collage above are the current cut (with bangs), the two on the bottom are from 2014.

This naturally wavy with super thin hair knows better than to cut bangs in summer, so when I want bangs I do them for Fall and this year I decided it was time to re-visit bangs. I did Bangs and long graduated layers to give my hair a bit more volume.

Here is a compilation video of my hair cuts at Angelo David Salon:




MY TAKE:

I definitely trust Ivy completely and it's super nice to be able to just sit back and relax at a Salon and not have to worry in any way. I love the bangs and graduated layers, I definitely needed the refresh, and wanted to break away from always copping out with ponytails, this will force me to do something with it everyday, and I am definitely all about that right now.

I am ready to toy with color and that will be focus of my next visit!

Readers Sound Off: How do you like wearing YOUR hair? Short? Long? Somewhere in Between? Have you tried the Angelo David Salon before? Are you 'hair adventurous' or do you stick to the same style each visit?

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FTC Disclosure: While this is NOT a Compensated Post, Angelo David Salon did provide my cut to facilitate my review for editorial purposes. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure. I can easily be lured out of my bat cave for 'pretty' time and bubbly! :)

Wednesday, September 14, 2016

My New York Fashion Week Pick for most fun show? @kyboeofficial #KYBOE #KYBOEStyle #NYFW

New York Fashion Week 2016 is in my rearview mirror, and I got to 'front row at the Fashion Show' for quite a few shows this year, but you know it is my custom to share the show I found most unique first.

This year's pick is definitely KYBOE! who offered a very 'timely' show. Pun definitely intended as they are a watch brand!

Want to see how does a 'timepiece' does Fashion Week?

Here are shots of mine in action:

From Left to Right: Three Bloggers Showing off their new KYBOE! Watches, I'm the one in the center, no surprise I picked Rose Gold right? (Notice the Rose Gold Ring). In shot two I'm checking the time, don't want to be late for the show, shot three - the BOWL neon sign is from Lucky Strike where the After Party for the Fashion Show was held (one of the After Parties anyway there were actually TWO) and the last shot was taken at Lucky Strike Bowling Alley pointing to a sign that reads: "Stay Out of The Gutter" - very cheeky!

A Quick Slideshow Video of the Show (using only my own photos) - there are WAY more photos and I promise a Pinterest Board will happen once I come up for air (when it does the words 'Pinterest Board' will actually be clickable)


MY TAKE:

KYBOE! is definitely a brand to watch, their timepieces are fun, unique and fashionable and can easily take you from work to play with ease.

I still prefer a quality watch to checking my cellphone for the time, and I love that KYBOE! Watches come in a wide variety of colors and if you are feeling really fancy you can get the version of the watch that offers crystals around the dial. I also love the one touch button to light the watch up making it easier when you are checking the time in a dark room or out and about at night. (See photo four in the photo collage above - the shot on the far right shows the watch lit).

And aren't you proud of me butterflies? I veered away from selecting the typical 'NY Black' watch. (Honestly I was torn on colors - I also wanted the 'spearmint' color because I have a pair of sneakers in that color - but ultimately went with the White/Rose Gold Option because they match my favorite headphones - remember THESE? - I will take a shot of me with the watch and headphones on at the same time so you can see how cute they go together!)

Readers Sound Off: Check Out Their Site and Let Us Know Which Color Would YOU choose for your KYBOE! watch?

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FTC Disclosure: I attended New York Fashion Week as Media and was a guest of the show, while no monetary compensation has been received to share this post, I was provided with a Watch for Editorial Consideration. Always Remember: This Luxe loving Lifestyle Editor can be bribed in custom made fashion, handbags, shoes, boots and electronics. I'm a very *simple* girl. LOL All opinions expressed herein are 100% my own. Ascending Butterfly partners with brands that would be of interest and offer values to our readers. See our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for full information.

Wednesday, September 7, 2016

Roses and Rosé #Fashion Event with @YourEluGirl - A Not so #WordlessWednesday Production (#Photos)

Roses and Rosé #Fashion Event with @YourEluGirl, Roses, Rosé Wine
Ah! It's that time of year again, summer is fading into Fall and New York Fashion Week madness will soon take over the City!

I have had a very challenging summer, but at least a few of those stresses are starting to normalize - I will share more about that tomorrow, as I have had no working computer for most of the summer, I haven't been able to do full blog posts about the events I have been attending, but if you follow us via Instagram and Twitter you have probably seen some photos there! But what good are great photos that don't share the entire story?

Sorry but I don't have the patience for three paragraph photo captions on Instagram! (Bless you millennials born with long pointy texting fingers! LOL)

Roses and Rosé #Fashion Event with @YourEluGirl, Roses, Rosé Wine, Christina Founder of Your Elu
I'm sure by now founder of Your Elu, Christina probably thinks I forgot all about her, definitely not so! You guys know I've been in publishing in some form (TV, Newspapers, Magazines) for so long that Fashion Week doesn't quite hold the same magic for me as it does to someone new to it. I have the luxury of being at a point in my career where I am picking the Fashion Shows and Fashion Related Events that I attend and I always select those that have a unique back story. (Being a Human Interest Reporter never has truly left me. I like real stories.)

I think something has always had to 'resonate truly' for me to cover it, and this event was certainly right up my alley on many levels and for so many reasons!

Your Elu - Beauty to Measure - offers 'custom' made-to-order apparel for ALL women but was totally founded with the Curvy/Plus lady in mind.

Butterflies, tailored clothes plain and simple fall better, look better, and I guarantee that everyone carries themselves with more confidence when they know their look is on point.

I'm always straight-forward, 'made-to-order' is never cheap - but my ideology on the matter is this: Have less clothes in your closet. Yes that's right, I did say 'less' and use the word 'clothes'. Have a wardrobe of apparel that is custom and fits you to perfection, instead of a closet of full of cheap options that still have you saying 'I have nothing to wear today'.

Roses and Rosé #Fashion Event with @YourEluGirl, Roses, Rosé Wine, Fried Calamari
We had an opportunity to get measured at the event, and while folks were being measured there were some nice noshes (check out the fried calamari in the photo above) and some great Rosé Wine. The theme was carried through with lovely Roses everywhere too!

Roses and Rosé #Fashion Event with @YourEluGirl, Roses, Rosé Wine, Christina Founder of Your Elu
Christina showed us some of the current styles available, and it was great getting a chance to feel the weight of the fabric and see the styles up close. And one great trick for us curvies that I have been using since forever is a good statement necklace, check out the one above being displayed with a Your Elu Little Black Dress, can I get a YAS!!!!???

Roses and Rosé #Fashion Event with @YourEluGirl, Roses, Rosé Wine, Christina Founder of Your Elu
Putting an event together takes a great team and it was fun meeting the Your Elu team!

My Take:

Made-to-Measure has been available for men in the retail space for ages now, and I truly love seeing custom made apparel for all sizes that also focuses on FASHION for women coming to the forefront. When you are a size that is not on the rack in many trendy retailers it is easy to feel less confident, what better solution than a brand with a fashion focus that does not turn any size away? A brand that wants to empower at all sizes. I say Kudos to Your Elu and I will be keeping an eye on them, they are my 'ones-to-watch' and I hope I get the chance to try out a custom made creation by Your Elu! You know for research purposes, so I can tell you about the comfort and fit! (wink) (wink)

Roses and Rosé #Fashion Event with @YourEluGirl, Roses, Rosé Wine

I wish everyday could be 'Roses and Rosé'

Readers Sound Off: Do you own Custom Made Apparel? If so, who is your designer? Have you/Will you consider trying Your Elu? Tag us on social with your custom made apparel on! @Tracy_Iglesias via Twitter and @Ascending1 via Instagram.

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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a sponsored post. I attended a Press Event and no monetary compensation has been received. But for the sake of honesty I can be bribed in custom made fashion, handbags, shoes, boots and electronics. I'm a very *simple* girl. LOL All opinions expressed herein are 100% my own. Ascending Butterfly partners with brands that would be of interest and offer values to our readers. See our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for full information.

Monday, August 22, 2016

In the Mail Monday: Check out the Goodies inside my @InfluensterVox #BonitaVoxBox #Health #Beauty #Lifestyle #spon

Disclosure: Influenster Vox has provided products for Editorial Consideration free of charge. All opinions however are exclusively my own.

InfluensterVox,  #BonitaVoxBox
Nothing better than an 'In The Mail Monday' when it's a box overflowing with health and beauty goodness!
 
I have to admit two of the items are regular favorites of mine that I purchase regularly, so lets start there!
 
Dickinson's Enhanced Witch Hazel Alcohol-Free Hydrating Toner - On the label it mentions that this product is 'Self Approved' but I think its a way higher honor, that it's 'great-grandma approved'! My Great Grandma loved this Witch Hazel and now I use it regularly too! This newest formulation has hyaluronic acid and Vitamin E to help Hydrate your skin in addition to removing impurities, reducing pore size and leaving skin fresh and clean without tightness. I have always found it scary that even after washing my face or using a makeup remover how much stuff shows on a cottonball after I use this toner! And I also say they get kudos for giving a FULL size sample in the Vox Box!
 
Fiber One Chocolate Fudge Brownie - I got to sample these awhile ago and it was love at first bite! I keep these regularly stocked in my pantry so I was happy to see a sample pack included in my Influenster #BonitaVoxBox I had no idea there was an ice cream with this flavor but I will be on the lookout for it during my next shopping trip. If you haven't tried these yet, give them a go! They are perfect to stash in your desk, car and purse to always have one handy in case of a sweet tooth snack attack!
 
Revlon Ultra HD Matte Lip Color + Super Lustrous Lipstick - This was on a piece of paper, much like a magazine tester and I have never once tried lipstick this way before. I think Revlon could have sprung for putting in a full size sample of each color. Not even going to link to them, why should I do the work for a piece of paper? Sorry guys but this was a 'fail' in my book. I am not game for swiping cardboard across my lips.
 
Sinful Colors Nail Polish - I recieved a Limited Edition Porcelain Matte in a color called We're All Matte Here from Kylie Jenner's Sinful Colors Nail Collection. It didn't really photograph true to color for some reason, it's a 'coral/pink' with great pigment, it's not a muted of soft pink, it's got body and I really like it! And again, Kudos for Full Size Product! (ahem Revlon!) I have been really wanting to try her lipsticks and this definitely makes me want to give them a go! You know I am all about a signature red lip so I am going to check out her reds and report back to you once I've tried them! Sorry, no mani shot with this one yet, but I will post once my nails are 'photo ready' (trust when I tell you that you really don't want to see them right now!)
 
Madam CJ. Walker Beauty Culture Dream Come True Wonderful Deep Conditioning Mask - I wish they would have put full size product in the Vox Box (I have super long hair right now so I hope the packet will cover it - not to mention trying to rip open foil packets in the shower always proves to be quite the challenge doesn't it?), but props for also including their Dream Come True Wonderful Pre-Wash Protein Treatment.

My Take:

'Bonita' is the Spanish Word for 'Pretty' - I love that Influenster named this the 'Bonita' Vox Box! I already love Dickinson's Witch Hazel so I loved getting to try their newest 'hydrating' formulation. Fiber One already has a permanent home in my pantry but I would like to branch out and try a few other flavors as well as their ice cream. This introduction to Sinful Colors will definitely have me checking out other colors in the line and I also want to check out Kylie's lip kits which I hope are as nicely pigmented as the nail colors are! (If any of you have tried them already, let me know what you think!)
 
Readers Sound Off: Which Product in the Influenster #BonitaVoxBox would you most like to try and why?

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FTC Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. All opinions expressed herein are 100% my own and do not reflect those of Influenster or it's sponsor brands. Ascending Butterfly partners with brands that would be of interest and offer values to our readers. See our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for full information.

Friday, August 5, 2016

Find out why #MOMSLOVEAMWELL and I do too! #Sponsored by @Amwell - nab a discount to try it yourself!

DisclosureCompensation was provided by Amwell via MomTrends Media.  The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions of Amwell or Momtrends.


American Well, Amwell, Telehealth, Healthcare, Wellness
With a bed this inviting, who wants to get out? Need Bedside Healthcare? Find out why American Well (Amwell) is becoming the 'Amazon of Healthcare'

Regular readers know that this butterfly originally aspired to become a Doctor and while life had other plans for me, I am still fascinated with Science and Medicine and even held the title of Science Editor for a Newspaper early on in my writing career.

The healthcare industry continues to change and evolve and intersects with technology in fascinating ways. Telemedicine is having it's day and with people wearing devices that monitor their fitness, blood pressure, rest/sleep and more it's clear that people are more interested in taking charge of their well-being/wellness in both traditional and non-traditional ways.

American Well (Amwell) is positioning itself to be ‘the Amazon of health care’ and was recently featured in the Medical section of the Wall Street Journal!

Amwell is:

  • Created by doctors
  • The most popular consumer Telehealth app worldwide in 2014 according to App Annie
  • The first Telehealth service awarded accreditation by The American Telemedicine Association
  • The first Telehealth platform to integrate with Apple’s Health App
  • The only service that allows you to select the doctor you want to see for an on-demand visit

Check out this Video on how it works:



Two summers ago I got a bug bite that immediately made my arm swell. I of course panicked, because it happened after hours (and I can never leave a voicemail with my primary so I have to call during office hours to get a human on the phone) - I can tell you I wish I had access to this service that day! Thankfully my local pharmacist pinch hit for me that day and I avoided an emergency room visit. (Which as you know isn't as easy to get covered by most insurance providers anymore - many want you to call them in advance to get the ER visit approved. Literally the LAST thing anyone cares about in the midst of an actual emergency!)

American Well, Amwell, Telehealth, Healthcare, Wellness, Laptop, Smartphone
You can connect with Amwell on your Desktop, Laptop, IPhone, Android Device, Tablet from literally anywhere!
Things never seem to happen during office hours do they? Amwell brings healthcare home and their Doctors are available 24/7 on a wide variety of platforms - your computer, tablet, smartphone - iPhone or Android!

I also see this service as an extra added re-assurance when I travel (I am 'sweet meat' for mosquitos! At home and abroad apparently.) and for those of you with children heading off to live in a dorm, make sure to have them install this app on their phones!

And if you are currently between jobs or for some reason you are currently un-insured, Amwell is a cost effective way to get access to needed healthcare services.

DISCOUNT:

Want to try out Amwell for yourself? Ascending Butterfly Readers can nab a $1 Visit (in conjunction with your healthcare  insurance, a little more without insurance but literally less than half the cost of  a co-pay with many carriers for a primary visit) using the code: TELEVISIT13

MY TAKE:

I wouldn't hesitate to use the service again as the need arises (like every time I get a bug bite! LOL) and I definitely recommend trying it out for yourself (that discount code would the perfect way to try it out!).

Readers Sound Off:

Tell me butterflies, have you already tried out a Telehealth service? Would you do it again? If you haven't tried it yet, what would you encourage you to do so?

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FTC Disclosure: This is a paid campaign and sponsored post. All opinions expressed herein are 100% my own and do not reflect those of Amwell or MomTrends. Ascending Butterfly partners with brands that would be of interest and offer values to our readers. If you are unsure of any medical issue you are experiencing you should seek out a Medical Doctor - be it Telehealth or In Person. This post does not make Medical Claims or Assertions. See our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for full information.