Friday, February 24, 2017

The countdown is on to the #Oscars one of the #movies NOT to miss is @LionMovie #LionHeart

@LionMovie #LionHeart The Moms Screening with Nicole Kidman Talkback Collage with Sunny Pawar
With 'Oscar Sunday' swiftly approaching, time is running out to catch up on the nominated movies. There are a few I have missed myself and need to catch up on, but there is one that I saw earlier this year before it's release that I wanted to make sure didn't slip under your radar.

I had the chance to attend a special screening of Lion Movie sponsored by Stop and Shop and Nature's Promise hosted by The Moms with a talk back with Nicole Kidman that had a special surprise at the end.

Movie Synopsis:

Five year old Saroo gets lost on a train which takes him thousands of miles across India, away from home and family. Saroo must learn to survive alone in Kolkata, before ultimately being adopted by an Australian Couple, when Saroo becomes an adult he journeys to India to find his family and explore his roots.

Here is a Video of the Talk Back with Nicole Kidman:


The special surprise at the end is Sunny Pawar who portrays young Saroo in the movie, his performance is completely absorbing, in fact the movie is very well cast. Long time readers know I was a Professional Film Critic many moons ago (yes you can get paid to watch movies and NO it's no where as glamorous as it sounds), and have been on a ton of real Press Junkets (please don't be mad blogger friends but the customized experiences film companies offer you is nothing like an actual junket - but that's a story for another day). I have had the chance to see Nicole Kidman do many interviews, but I haven't seen her nearly as animated, passionate and 'alive' as she was discussing this movie.

The movie deals with the very real and overwhelmingly heartbreaking reality of the over 80,000 children in India who go missing each year, and the Lion Movie has a giving initiative called #LionHeart that partners with organizations worldwide to help the children in India and all around the world. (The link in the second paragraph that leads to the movie official page has a donation link)

MY TAKE:

Both the film and Nicole Kidman are nominated for this Sunday's Oscars, and like each year I watch the award show I will not envy the committee. The films nominated are usually all powerful and moving and the actors have all delivered strong performances. I'm just afraid that this film will have slipped under the radar of so many and hope that as many of you as possible will take the time to watch it.

This is NOT a compensated post in any way, but Nature's Promise and Stop and Shop did sponsor the screening and gift bags. (Full Disclosure Butterflies).

Readers Sound Off: Which of the 2017 Oscar Nominated Films have YOU seen? Are there any you haven't yet seen that you will be binge watching before The Oscars this Sunday?

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FTC Disclosure: Access to special screening with talk balk was granted to Ascending Butterfly for Editorial Consideration and all thoughts and opinions are my own. This is NOT a compensated post. 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 see our  Disclosure Page for additional information.

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).

Unless it's charity related, 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's Butterfly. Still here? Now go make someone happy today.

Monday, February 13, 2017

#ValentinesDay Gift Buying Guide presented by @Ascending1 and @Corkcicle #wine #whiskey #beer

Disclosure: 2017 Valentine's Day Gift Buying Guide presented by Ascending Butterfly sponsored by Corkcicle. Products were provided for Editorial Consideration.


This gift guide is all about the 'perfect spirits' and has a little 'something-something' for both him or her!

The Corkcicle One, Wine Aerator, Wine Pourer, Wine Chiller
The Corkcicle One

Let's start with the Oenophile in your life who by now has an Electronic Wine Opener, Corkscrew and Foil Cutter at their disposal right? But how about an aerator that also keeps that wine bottle cool? The Corkcicle One (this is an amazon affiliate link) has a built-in aerator that enhances the aromatic profile of any wine, coupled with an easy pour spout that makes serving your favorite wine a breeze, and the unique freezing gel maintains chilled whites for up to an hour without the need for an ice bucket and can cool down room temp reds in 15 minutes.

Corkcicle One, White Wine Pourer, Aerator, Wine Chiller
Prior to this one I owned the Soiree In Bottle Wine Aerator, (this is an amazon affiliate link) and don't get me wrong, I absolutely loved it, but someone dropped it and broke it and shortly after while hunting for a replacement, I met the Corkcicle team at a tradeshow where I got to see the Corkcicle One in action and the ability to chill down a room temp red or keep a chilled white wine cool for almost an hour without the need for an ice bucket is what swayed me to make the switch and I have never looked back. It's the accessory in your wine arsenal that you had no idea you needed and once you have it just can't live without it!

Corkcicle One, cool room temperature Red Wine in 15 minutes, Pourer, Aerator, Wine Chiller
You can keep the party going without the need for tons of ice, ice buckets, and honestly I would recommend getting a few, if you have ever hosted a dinner party where pretty much everyone wanted something different, having a few of these on hand is a life saver! I can't remember the last time I drank wine without the use of an aerator.

Corkcicle Whiskey Wedge
Is your sweetie more of a 'hard spirits' lover? Would a bourbon or Whiskey be more up their alley? Then no worries Corkcicle has got you covered there too with the Whiskey Wedge (this is an amazon affiliate link) - keep your Whiskey cool without diluting it or watering it down and do it in style! No shade but I love the look of this WAY better than the stones. (and if you are anything like me you can't help but wonder where those stones are sourced and what might be on them, we know what you nasty boys do in the woods! I am just not about sourcing stones to put in my glasses OK? LOL).

Corkcicle Whiskey Wedge
I have been all over Bourbon ever since the signature cocktail I discovered during my last press trip to Brandywine Valley (read more about the Bourbon St. Margarita that I enjoyed at High Street Caffe & Vudu Lounge HERE) - this is that sexy and grown James Bond way to serve your Bourbon. You go Ms. MoneyPenny Get Your Bourbon On! LOL

Corkcicle Whiskey Wedge
Bourbon and I are still in the "getting-to-know-you" stages, but I do know Corkcicle is making this recent love affair that much more sexy and fun!

Corkcicle Invisiball
























Now I don't want you guys to think I am not team ice, some drinks do need real ice, but that doesn't mean you can't do it the way bartenders do, and again, Corkcicle has got you covered with their Invisiball. (this is an amazon affiliate link)

Corkcicle Invisiball












Here is a video of it in action:


As much as I enjoy a good ice carving, I am NOT about to do all that to get the perfect ice for a drink, so thanks Corkcicle, Invisiball is right up my alley, not to mention I love that can you use it to add fruit, herbs, or flower petals to infuse flavor and get perfect cubes every time that melt super slowly so as not to dilute your drink. You can use a freezer bag to prepare a few in advance and have them ready for your next party, or for Valentine's Day! (How about making some with those cute candy hearts in them to send a special message to your sweetie?)

Corckcicle Chillsner























Is your sweetheart more into a good brewski than a good wine? No worries, Corkcicle GOT YOU! They apply the same technology to the Chillsner that they do with the Corkcicle One - Keep your favorite brew as cold as the first sip with each sip using the Corckcicle Chillsner! (this is an amazon affiliate link)

Corckcicle Chillsner

It is with good reason that the Chillsner is a number one Best Seller in the category on Amazon!

Corckcicle Chillsner



I plan on smuggling mine into the bowling alley to keep my beer cold from first sip to last, the bigger the group the longer the wait between bowls....just saying.

Corckcicle Chillsner
CHEERS!

MY TAKE:

I love that Corkcicle has products that keep the party going with a little something for every type of spirit lover in your life. These are amazing hostess gifts, so whether it's just you and your sweetheart staying in for some Netflix and Chill, or GALentine's Day with the girls, or heading off to a party, bring Corkcicle's innovative products with you and you are bound to set the party off right.

Happy Valentine's Day to all my beautiful Butterflies!

Readers Sound Off: Which Corkcicle Product sounds like the right one for YOU? What is your favorite Spirit? Are you team wine all the time? Beer? Bourbon/Whiskey?

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FTC Disclosure: Corkcicle provided their innovative product line to Ascending Butterfly for Editorial Consideration 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).

Unless it's charity related, 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's Butterfly. Still here? Now go make someone happy today.

Wednesday, February 1, 2017

Not so #WordlessWednesday Photo Tour of The New York Times #Travel Show! @NYTTravelShow #NYTTravelShow

I had no idea when I walked into the Media Day for The New York Times Travel Show this year what a mess there would be at the Airports later that weekend. (And let's not even discuss the weekend schedule into the city on public transpo, thanks MTA! NOT!)

After what was an amazing weekend of  'exploring the world in one place' and connecting with my tribe of fellow travelers, 'wanderlusters' and writers - Editor friends would have trouble getting home, when Airlines experienced computer problems, and our new President issued a Travel Ban that caused chaos.

It took me a few days to figure out how to approach sharing my recap of the show. Should I stay silent about what is going on around the world? Just focus on the exhibitors? Tidbits from the Panels and Learning Sessions from Media Day only?

There are fundamental things in life that have the ability to 'transport' you:

(1) Reading
(2) Music
(3) Education

and last but certainly not least

(4) TRAVEL

Travel at its best expands our horizons, shows us just how much we have in common - it makes the world that much 'bigger'.

And that is exactly what The New York Travel Show achieved for me, here are some photo highlights:


Above: All-Inclusive Travel Panel at The New York Times Travel Show - the all-inclusive travel market is facing a ton of competition - including cruising, improvements are being made but travel buyers still need to research and evaluate a prospective all-inclusive carefully to be sure you are getting the most bang for your buck based on the way YOU travel. When you travel, do you sleep in late most days? Then an all-inclusive that includes breakfast is probably not a necessary expense for you. Do you hate buffets? Make sure your all-inclusive includes more than a buffet dining option.


Above: Focus on Cruising Panel at The New York Times Travel Show -  Norwegian Cruises let us know that the Norwegian Sky is going to Cuba with an overnight in Havana



Above: Focus on Cruising Panel at The New York Times Travel Show - Celebrity Cruises will boast 61 overnight calls in Europe in 2017


Above: Focus on Cruising Panel at The New York Times Travel Show - MSC Cruises focus on wellness powered by Technogym definitely caught my eye, if I can get away but still focus on 'staying centered' that is my idea of vacation nirvana! I have never taken a cruise before, but MSC has definitely got me tempted. Ascending Butterfly has always taken a 'Mind, Body, and Soul' approach to wellness and wellbeing and this is certainly right up my alley!

VIDEO - While I did take photos I thought sharing this video I shot at the Mexico Tourism Exhibitor Booth of a live Mariachi Band would be way more fun!



Below: The Media Day was sponsored by the Costa Rica Tourism Board, they hosted a really nice networking break:


Above: Costa Rican Coffee, an assortment of chocolate, and dried fruit to take home and some delicious empanadas to nibble on between sessions was a great break in between panels during Media Day. Learning is hungry business!


Above: It snowed yesterday here in New York City, I actually wish I was on a beach 'wasting away in Margaritaville' right about now! #LicensetoChill

Below: But it was the Giant Flip Flop that drew visitor's to the booth!




Above: The India Tourism Board caught my eye especially after the special screening of Lion starring SAG nominee Dev Patel that I got to attend earlier in the month (I will share a full review on the movie soon) and I couldn't help but nab a close up of the eye catching elephant statues.




ABOVE: Indonesia also had a super eye catching booth!


Above: At the Indonesia Tourism Booth they offered the chance to customize a bookmark with your name in Javanese Characters which as an avid reader I thought was awesome and I definitely took advantage of this, it will be a very treasured bookmark!


Above: The interactive mailbox at Live the Language definitely caught my eye, I would love to learn a new language abroad! Yes Please!

Cultural Performances:


Above: 2017 New York Times Travel Show  - The New York Korean Performing Arts Center drum and dance in celebration of the Lunar New Year. Asia Stage Cultural Performance.


Above: Korean Martial Arts Group takes Asia Stage at The New York Times Travel Show (I have studied several forms of Martial Arts, seeing this was a great reminder I need to get back into it!)


Above: Cultural Dance Performance - The New York Times Travel Show 2017

Above: What is a tradeshow without a fun cocktail reception right? ManAboutWorld hosted a cocktail reception sponsored by the Tourism Boards of both Florida and Arizona, and they definitely get cool swag mentions for the McClendon's Select Organic Red Grapefruit Soaps! Not to mention the Tequila Glasses for the Margaritas were super cute too! LGBT travel was the focus of this party which I hopes become an annual one for the show.

MY TAKE:

The New York Times Travel Show does a great job of improving it's Media Day each year, I am there now as Press, but many moons ago I worked for an Airline (that is still very much in business) in the Caribbean Sales Division where I sold directly to the Agencies that sold to the end consumer. I will always have a strong interest in the 'business' side of travel and where it's headed, the technology that is always changing and adapting to suit the needs of the tech savvy traveler and finding unique travel ideas, products and experiences.

It also activates a fresh case of 'wanderlust-itis' - that won't go away until I board a plane again!

Readers Sound Off: What destination(s) is top on your travel bucket list this year?

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FTC Disclosure: I was granted Press Access to the New York Times Travel Show for Editorial Consideration 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).

Unless it's charity related, 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's Butterfly. Still here? Now go make someone happy today.