Showing posts with label Empowerment. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Empowerment. Show all posts

Friday, December 4, 2020

{Digital Conference Alert} I am attending #SmashboxJefaCon THIS Saturday - find out how you can too! Tag a fellow #Beauty #Boss #Babe and #BFF

 

Smashbox, Smashbox Cosmetics, Jefacon, Digital Conference, Conference, Conferences, Latina, Latina Entrepreneurs, Boss Lady, Jefa Mindset, Empowerment








There are three conferences annually that I have always made it a point to attend, one happened well before Covid so it wasn't affected (waiting to find out what will happen for 2021) the other was cancelled and the third happened digitally, which was PhotoPlus Expo (I am still catching up on sessions so I will recap it once I'm caught up - and can figure out a way to take that massive amount of info and make it concise).

I am attending a Digital Conference this Saturday that I felt it very important to put on your radar! (And HURRY because General Admission is only $25!)

BACKGROUND ON SMASHBOX JEFACON:

The Latinx community, fueled by an inherent entrepreneurial spirit, have been leading the charge in new business development. Hispanic-owned businesses rose at a 40% growth rate from 2012 – 2018 (more than 2x the national average), despite the fact that the Latinx community has faced a funding ceiling that hinders entrepreneurship in the U.S.

It was this spirit that inspired the Smashbox North America team, led by Kimberly Villatoro, Vice President, North America Marketing at Smashbox Cosmetics to leverage their resources to create change. Personally and professionally, Villatoro felt moved to gather resources and create a game-changing program.

Jefacon, a multifaceted collaboration platform that empowers women to recognize their inner boss. Inspired by “jefa”, the Spanish word for “boss,” Smashbox Jefacon celebrates the immense power of all women and honors the numerous interpretations of the jefa mindset.

“Smashbox embodies the hustle. As one of Los Angeles’ original indie beauty brands, we know what it takes to build something from nothing. So do our two incredible collaborators, Beauty industry moguls Julissa Prado, CEO and Founder of Rizos Curls, and Patty Delgado, Founder and designer of Hija de tu Madre, have partnered with Smashbox in a double on-and-off-line initiative to help other Latinas connect with their inner jefas and inspire them to act on their goals, dreams and business ideas.” says Villatoro. “Together we will use our voice and amplification power to inspire and empower the women who define history, beauty and evolution.”

With a clear vision, the Smashbox team set out to find partners who embody the hustle. Villatoro and fellow Latina powerhouse colleague Courtney Childress (Smashbox Executive Director, Global Product Marketing) zoned in on Delgado and Prado after discovering they had both been following their entrepreneurial journeys.

OTHER SPEAKERS INCLUDE:

  • Karla Martinez de Salas, Vogue Mexico Editor in Chief will discuss "how to find your most empowering and personal style"

Ana Flores, We All Grow, Latina Leaders, Smashbox Jefacon Speaker

  • Ana Flores, We All Grow Latina Founder will discuss "sharing ways of decoding and manifesting your vision" (Ana and We All Grow Latina have been featured on our pages before, she is incredibly inspiring! 
  • If you are a We All Grow Member, (if you are not you can join for free) - check out this Instagram post to find out how members can access this conference free of charge here!) You should also check out her Hear Us, See Us Panel sponsored by Comcast, it's on YouTube (FREE!) here: Hear Us, See Us - YouTube)
Alexandra Garcia, Google, Program Manager, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

  • Alexandra Garcia, Google, Program Manager, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion will discuss "how to find your "jefa" story" (a workshop focused on storytelling skills).
  • Lilliana Vazquez, Carmen Rita Wong, Janet Jones Veloso, Dulce Candy and many more from the global community of Jefas!

ANOTHER COOL WAY TO GET YOUR VIRTUAL TICKET:














SMASHBOX X HIJA DE TU MADRE BEAUTY BOX

Inspired by Patty’s jefa mood: Muy Bossy. Exclusively available at HijaDeTuMadre.com and Smashbox.com, the kit will include Patty’s favorite Smashbox items to create her versatile bossy bold look.

Smashbox x Hija de tu Madre Kit, Cosmetics, Makeup


Smashbox x Hija de tu Madre Makeup Kit will include: ($98 retail, $190+ value)

  • Always On Liquid Lipstick in Bang Bang
  • LA Lights Blendable Lip & Cheek Color in the shade Silverlake Sunset
  • Full Exposure Mascara
  • The Original Photo Finish Smooth & Blur Primer (Travel Size)
  • “Hello, My Name is La Jefa” Tote Bag
  • Limited Edition Hija de tu Madre Sticker Sheet & Jefa Mirror Decals
  • Virtual ticket to Smashbox Jefacon on 12/5

SMASHBOX X RIZOS CURLS BEAUTY BOX

Inspired by Julissa’s ultimate jefa mood: Glow Getter. Available at RizosCurls.com and Smashbox.com, the kit will include Julissa’s favorite Smashbox items to create her signature bronze, dewy, glow-getter look.

SMASHBOX x RIZOS CURLS KIT


Smashbox x Rizos Curls Makeup Kit will include: ($98 retail, $200 value)

  • Photo Finish Vitamin Glow Primer
  • Halo Glow Highlighter Duo in Golden Bronze
  • Cali Contour Palette in Light/Medium
  • Gloss Angeles Lip Gloss in Michelada
  • “Hello, My Name is La Jefa” Tote Bag
  • Limited Edition Jefa Inspiration Guide
  • $10 Rizos Curls Gift Card
  • Virtual Ticket to Smashbox Jefacon on 12/5

MY TAKE:

I know so many people are feeling 'boxed in' with so much being closed off to us this year, but please don't overlook Digital Conferences. Digital Conferences keep you connected not just to your current industry, but to your passions too.

Expand your horizons, your passion projects, your dreams, the smart way - don't attempt to re-invent the wheel - it's been done. But you can listen to podcasts, watch as many digital conferences as you can and listen to speakers who are generously sharing their journey with you. Their mistakes don't have to be yours and their triumphs shared can be your inspiration.

If you are attending the conference & decide to share power quotes that resonate with you, don't forget to use the conference hashtag: #SmashboxJefaCon

READERS SOUND OFF: Do you want to be your own boss? Do you have a Jefa/boss mindset? What was your favorite Digital Conference this year? Which ones do you want to attend next year?

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FTC Disclosure: I will be covering this conference as Digital Press. This is NOT a compensated post, all opinions are 100% 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 & Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure. Things that lure this butterfly out of her cocoon: Technology, Travel, Fashion, Beauty, Spirits (Sparkling, Champagne, Prosecco, Sake, Bourbon, Craft Brews), Foodie Fun - really I'm such a *simple girl*.

Sunday, April 29, 2018

Focus on Gratitude and Wishes, it's #WORLDWISHDAY - What is your favorite way to make a wish and what are you wishing for?

NOT SPONSORED!


Today is World Wish Day!


Happy World Wish Day Butterflies! 

What's your favorite way to make a wish?

 Blowing on a dandelion
 Wishing on a shooting star
 Blowing out birthday candles
 Making a wish at 11:11
 Breaking a wishbone
 Wishing on a ladybug
 Wishing on a fallen eyelash
 Tossing coins into a wishing well

Consider granting a child's wish via the Make A Wish Foundation today!

My current wish: Becoming a Full Time Travel Photographer! I will also take Powerball Grand Prize Winner! or maybe BOTH! Gotta let the Universe know right?

Readers: Share your favorite way to make a wish and what you are currently wishing for!

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FTC Disclosure: No monetary compensation has been received and all opinions are 100% 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.

Friday, January 12, 2018

Fill in the Blank Friday on Ascending Butterfly, this weeks theme: "My focus word/phrase for 2018 is_______" Join us at @Ascending1 and share yours! #FillintheBlankFriday



Fill in the Blank Friday on Ascending Butterfly Blog, self care, writing prompt, blog challenge

I decided to bring back Fill in the Blank Friday! I was channeling my graphic designer roots and decided to create this feature a brand new branded graphic, what do you think?

This week's theme:

My focus word/phrase for  2018 is: SELF CARE

This is actually both my personal and blog theme this year. I am a Life Coach and Empowerment Writer, I expend a lot of my energy uplifting, motivating, empowering and encouraging others. I sometimes forget the airline theory of air bags: "Put the Bag on Yourself FIRST, then help others" - how else can you be of use to anyone if you can't breathe?

The airlines definitely have it right there.

I need to remember to be just as kind to myself as I am to others.

To recharge my own batteries, to apply a better level of self care to my own life.

And I plan to hold myself accountable and share with you once per month the ways I fulfilled my focus on self care/recharging my batteries in that month. I figure if I also make my focus phrase a blog challenge/writing prompt, I can't use any excuses for not doing it.

What is your focus word this year? or resolution? Have a wonderful weekend Butterflies and I can't wait to read your answers!


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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a sponsored post, all opinions are 100% 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 & Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure. Things that lure this butterfly out of her cocoon: Technology, Travel, Fashion, Beauty, Spirits (Sparkling, Champagne, Prosecco, Sake, Bourbon, Craft Brews), Foodie Fun - really I'm such a *simple girl*.

Tuesday, January 9, 2018

They wore Black to the @goldenglobes and this New Yorker loved every minute of it! For the first time ever we are discussing #GoldenGlobes and #Fashion #TIMESUP #WhyWeWearBlack #MeToo

THIS IS NOT SPONSORED/COMPENSATED!

Award Show season is in full swing my butterflies.

For the history of my blogging career before and after most award shows I get a ton of news releases asking me to share what designers were worn, what makeup was used on who even what shampoo and haircare products were used.

I rarely blog about award shows and when I do it is usually not because of the Fashion, or the makeup, or the haircare products or the jewels they wore.

I rarely write about celebs on these pages either, when I do it is because of a charitable initiative or way they are giving back.

In December I blogged a bit about The Kennedy Center Honors for many reasons, including our President's notable absence from the ceremonies, which has been attended by The President of the United States since the inception of the ceremony, in case you missed it, my blog about it can be found HERE.

For the first time I am blogging about Fashion Choices at an Award Show, because They Wore Black and WHY they wore black:

75th Annual Golden Globes, Nicole Kidman, Allison Janney, Kerry Washington, Penelope Cruz


Above: Left: Nicole Kidman, Allison Janney, Kerry Washington and Far Right: Penelope Cruz - this was borrowed directly from Golden Globes Website, and someone really should let them know they have this captioned wrong they have Penelope Cruz captioned as Salma Hayek - for shame Golden Globes, you need a new Editor!

#whywewearblack is a hashtag that was actually trending BEFORE the Golden Globes. The entertainment industry's most prominent female voices in the industry made a statement of solidarity with their Fashion choices and the #metoo movement strongly influenced the Golden Globes. The CNN has a great article on how the #metoo movement was coloring the Globes ahead of time HERE - it compiles some of the posts made by celebs who used their social media platforms to raise additional awareness.

While the Golden Globes is an award show that many celebs have used their acceptance speeches in the past to share about causes they were passionate about, this year you knew those causes not only with a pin, not only in their speech, but the moment they stepped out on that carpet, it was a POWERFUL display of solidarity.

I remember watching a recent Dave Chappele's Comedy Stand up Special, where he said something I had a recent conversation on, after all these allegations have come to light, if women don't keep up the momentum things will get that much worse and that much harder. On that I very much agree. And this Red Carpet was just that show of solidarity and strength I would love to see continue and grow bigger.

I am a born and raised New Yorker, the color black is almost a daily uniform here, but to see that ocean of black on the red carpet of The Golden Globes filled my heart with pride. I live in a city where many woman have experienced sexual harassment, not just in the workplace but on the commute in the subway, just walking down the street and it is NOT acceptable. It has got to stop!

"We wear black in solidarity with men and women asking for equality, respect and meaningful change within all industries." ~Amy Schumer

Rosario Dawson did a great job with her instagram video (follow her while you are there) in support of the efforts of Times Up Now and the Times Up Legal Defense Fund who utilizes the monies raised to subsidize legal support for men, women, disabled persons, LGBTQIA who have experienced sexual harassment, assault or abuse in the workplace. I also love her makeup free delivery on this one as well, way to go Rosario! She also thanks others who have come forward with their stories.

"It's time to celebrate each other - not just the nominees on our film and television screens but our storytellers who have bravely come forward and courageously shared their stories and liberated so many of us too." ~Rosario Dawson

Reese Witherspoon, Kerry Washington, Brie Larson, Tracee Ellis Ross, Tessa Thompson and Rashida Jones posted a video and you can find that one on Instagram as well on Kerry Washington's Page HERE (follow while you are there!) The group's efforts has driven donations to the legal fund which has raised over $15.7 million to date!

"Wondering #WhyWeWearBlack ?!?!?! Because we stand with YOU! We stand in solidarity. Together we can end harassment, discrimination & abuse. And create safety, inclusion, equity & parity! FOR ALL PEOPLE. ACROSS ALL INDUSTRIES" ~Kerry Washington

Gal Gadot at 75th Annual Golden Globes
Above: Gal Gadot at the 2018 Golden Globe Awards

It annoys me to no end that the only thing people are focusing on about Gal Gadot is her $6 lipstick, I would rather focus on her solidarity to the cause instead. (And secretly admit that I hope the rumors are true about Lynda Carter joining her for Wonder Woman 2)


Women Empowering Women is how 2018 has begun, and this momentum needs to continue.

And while it is sometimes a sore spot in personal conversations with parent friends, I am going to use my platform to remind women who are mothers with sons, that YOU need to teach your son how to be a gentleman, the way he treats women later has much to do with how you raise him NOW. Teach your son to wash his own dishes and laundry, sew his own buttons, iron his own clothes, seek a partner in life because he loves her, not because he needs a replacement mother. Be careful with music videos and listen to how his circle of friends refer to girls and young women, you can set good foundations.

Women can't keep complaining about sexist pigs when they are raising them! We have to do better!

As Fashion has always been the yardstick by which women have been measured and let's face it how we often measure ourselves and each other, for women to turn the tables and turn their fashion on the most watched moment of the year on it's ear and use their very fashion - the thing men notice about us - and use it to make such a powerful political statement is one of the most amazing ways this year could have started in my opinion.

While my Facebook feed has been filled with people 'who just wanted to see pretty dresses' and didn't want 'politics mixed in with their entertainment' - sorry, not sorry to all of you but wake up. Get Woke. If women don't stand up and fight for their place, fight for the respect they deserve and the equality they deserve in the workplace and beyond, we are going to be in trouble, these are going to be the longest four years in history with the person who wants to take us back to the 50's.

That was the point of the show of solidarity people, we are not just stick figure Barbie's who need to dress pretty and put on a show, we are hard working human beings deserving of respect.

And there is also the talk of Oprah Winfrey running for President. I have no idea whether or not she will or she won't, but I can tell you we need to use this impetus to channel and funnel it into a woman taking the White House in 2020. That is not going to be easy.

But think about this, for any Presidential Election, it takes someone with smarts and resources (or the ability to drum up quite a bit of funding) - Oprah is smart, resourceful, always put her money where her mouth is, doesn't back down and has her own school for pete's sake, trying to think of a male candidate in the history of the Presidential Race who came into the game already having built schools.....can you think of one?

In my opinion Presidential Elections have never been more than deciding who the lesser of two evils is.

Don't you want your vote to stand for MORE than that?

Don't you want to vote for a candidate that is smart, savvy, generous, informed and actually gives an eff about people and this planet? I know I do.

Tarana Burke, Social Activist and founder of the #MeToo (2006), Right: Michelle Williams, Actress at the 75th Annual Golden Globes


Above: Far Left: Tarana Burke, Social Activist and founder of the #MeToo (2006), Right: Michelle Williams, Actress at the 75th Annual Golden Globes.

Aside from wearing black, many actresses also chose to walk the carpet with activists. This year entertainment reporters were tasked with more than just the "what are you wearing question", it was the "who you are with". And it often made them uncomfortable. But when the pre-carpet arrivals included Debra Messings talking about the wage gap at E! while being interviewed by E!, twitter was LIT and it was amazing to see!

It is the #MeToo movement that colored this whole thing. Tarana Burke founded the movement in 2006, and at a very early age she was the victim of sexual assault, the movement picked up momentum again when Actress Alyssa Milano tweeted about it in response to the Harvey Weinstein Allegations unaware of the earlier movement.

The movement was born when Ms. Burke met a young woman named Heaven who had shared with her a story of assault and Ms. Burke regretted not telling Heaven, 'Me Too' and sharing her story with that young woman, and that is how the movement was born.

And now the movement has become a force to be reckoned with.

I hate still seeing commentary that focuses on who started the movement, Tarana did. I hate the commentary talking about Alyssa taking anything away from women of color, she didn't do her research, that she didn't know the movement already existed.

She posted as soon as she learned about it, and quite frankly if her tweets revived the IMPORTANCE of this movement, I'll take it.

Women need to be outspoken and bring these stories to the light.

When it took off again on social, women on my Facebook Feed shared their stories. It was incredibly moving and made my heart hurt to know so many women I actually know have been victims of assault or sexual abuse.

Tracy Iglesias of Ascending Butterfly #MeToo Story





































Above: This was me the year my #MeToo happened.

While I only wrote #MeToo as a status update, I never really shared my story. I know many found it odd, I have been in journalism for over 20 years now.  I'm a Bronxite. A New Yorker, and I am incredibly outspoken, especially about causes I am passionate about. (I started backwards so to speak, first as a Television News Writer, then Editor for a popular Newspaper, then went to Magazines, then when I went Digital in 2008 I was blogging for a high end handbag line before starting my own blog shortly after in 2009). I know many people were waiting for the whole story. Some sent Direct Messages, others just taggged me on their stories after seeing my status update with the hashtag.

It seems only fitting to share my story now.

As a College Sophomore I was attacked on Campus. I lived at home, that school has no dorms, and while I fought off my attacker and he did not succeed, it shook me to my core. At the time I was studying Taekwondo and while I am sure my Martial Arts Background worked to my advantage in taking back the control despite the element of surprise, it remains with me to this day. I have had a gun held to my head on a subway train although that was an attempted mugging, also not successful for my attacker, and incidents like this rob you of feeling secure in the places you visit everyday. The places you can't avoid, the places where you should always be safe.

My Take:

I did not miss the annual pre-carpet Fashion Show one bit, I did LOVE the pre-carpet showing women standing up for women. Showing women highlighting the work of amazing activists, of women sharing their passions and not just the name of a Fashion House. MORE OF THIS, YES PLEASE.

And because I want you to be very careful on your responses, I was NOT wearing what I was wearing in this photo on either occassion, NOT that it should matter, I selected this photo because I am wearing a black dress and that is the year the incident occurred.

I hope PR firms do not even bother with their press releases about who was wearing what dress, what makeup, what shoes, what jewelry, again I focus on empowerment, all those other things are nice and have their time and their place, but please understand this award show and it's 'red carpet' was WAY more than that.

WAY MORE THAN THAT.

Butterflies - Do you have a #MeToo story? Do you know someone who has a #MeToo story? If you posted yours be it your blog or your social channel, please share and by all means post the link to your story as well.


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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a sponsored post, all opinions are 100% 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 & Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure. Things that lure this butterfly out of her cocoon: Technology, Travel, Fashion, Beauty, Spirits (Sparkling, Champagne, Prosecco, Sake, Bourbon, Craft Brews), Foodie Fun - really I'm such a *simple girl*.

Sunday, December 3, 2017

#ad: #OnTheBlog - Looking for a #supermoon2017 #SuperMoonSunday Read? Then Check out this Review and Giveaway of @tylerperry #HigherIsWaiting a @penguinrandom title #rwm

{CLOSED} CONGRATS TO OUR WINNER TOMI C. THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED!

♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄ƷThis is a Sponsored Post on behalf of Review Wire Media for Penguin Random House. I received information to facilitate my review as well as a promotional item to thank me for my participation. All opinions are 100% my own.


This Sunday, December 3rd is the both the FIRST AND LAST supermoon of 2017. The moon is going to appear up to 14 times larger and 30 times brighter than usual, and I can't think of any better way to enjoy it than cozying up to my favorite reading nook by the window with a good book and a nice glass of wine (or eggnog or hot chocolate, whatever floats your beverage boat!) And I will also have my Crystals on the windowsill 're-charging' as it is thought that the full moon shines down with so much pure energy, anything it touches is imbued with powerful radiance and love. And who couldn't use more of that in their life?

The illumination of the supermoon provides not only physical mind-blowing results when it comes to energy healing but on a soul level as well it helps to sort of shine a light on the dark corners of your subconscious and shine a light that gives you insight into your emotions, your soul, and your soul path. And that all ties so superbly with the review and giveaway I bring you today. (And don't forget in case you missed it, we teamed up with Santa.com to host a fun Giveaway that includes a limited edition Christopher Radko ornament, only 300 of them were made, please be sure to enter it HERE

I know it's been ages since we have had an Ascending Butterfly Book Club on a regular basis monthly, not so much because I haven't been reading, I definitely have, but I have had less time to write and a regular feature was becoming too much of a commitment. Lately my blog life has been matching my single life, not much along the way of time to properly devote to either one. Le Sigh. Being a single butterfly in the city ain't easy!

I do have a title I wanted to share with you called Higher is Waiting by Tyler Perry (note this is an affiliate link to the book, when you purchase from our affiliate link it helps support this site and is always appreciated).

There are so many reasons this book resonates with me.

In addition to writing and social media consulting I am life/career coach and I am always scouring self help aisles to keep myself motivated. I know I have to keep my batteries re-charged if I am going to help others.

A Life Coach in a Funk?

Not cute.

Not a Good Look.

Bad for Business.

I love to scour the self-help aisle at the Library and my favorite bookstores for inspiration. And I squeeze in my reading anywhere I can, during my commute to the City each day, when I am traveling or on a plane, somehow despite the popularity of e-readers and even with my love of tech and tech blogging, I am still old school when it comes to reading, I like a hardcover book in my hand.

Whether you know Tyler Perry from his feature films, twenty stage plays or nine television shows, Higher is Waiting is a very intimate look at the Writer, Author, Filmmaker, playwright, songwriter, entrepreneur and philanthropist. Check out Tyler's "The Perry Foundation" which aims to transform tragedy into triumph by seeding individual potential, supporting communities and harvesting real change.

This is Tyler's second title, his first book, which is also a #1 New York Times Best Seller is called "Don't Make a Black Woman Take Off Her Earrings: Madea's Uninhibited Commentaries on Love and Life"

I want to make it very clear that this is NOT a Madea book, nor is this a sequel to that book, this is Tyler Perry opening himself up in a very raw, personal and open way sharing directly from a ten year period of his personal journals with a combination of humor and spiritual hope.

The book is divided into four sections: Planting, Nourishing, Branching Out and Harvesting.

The format is a little bit similar to a book that was a standout pick for me in our Ascending Butterfly Book Club in 2010, called Unforgettable You by Daisy Fuentes, see my review for that book HERE.

Like Unforgettable You, Higher Is Waiting has a call to action at the end of every chapter, and also has recommended bible verses and passages that relate to that chapter and help you expand deeper on the theme in that particular chapter.

WIN IT:

I am partnering with Review Wire Media and Penguin Random House to give one lucky butterfly the chance to win your own copy of "Higher Is Waiting". Use the Rafflecopter Widget Below to enter, if the widget is 'stuck' just refresh the page and it should come back on it's own.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

MY TAKE:

I had seen interviews with Tyler Perry and had some idea of the abuse he endured in childhood, but not quite the extent of what he endured, while I appreciate Tyler Perry's humor it is in Higher Is Waiting that he gives us the biggest glimpse yet into his soul. Memoirs are terribly difficult to pen - just how much of yourself do you give? How does what you give of yourself impact how an already established audience perceives you?

I have read many other reviews on this book describing it as an easy read. (I always tend to read reviews before I write one.) And I am not quite sure that I agree. A Memoir is something akin to an open sore that you keep peeling the skin off of, it's a raw and a painful process, and to read of someone else's trials and tribulations I would never consider 'easy', but I will agree you can get through each individual chapter quickly because they are shorter chapters.

But the meat is in the end of chapter questions that ask you to probe yourself.

And the soul is in the extra bible verses that he asks you to refer to that expand upon that chapter's theme.

If you are doing it right, and really taking those extra steps at the end of the chapter, this is actually not a fast or easy read, but something that moves you to dig into your own soul in a very empowering way.

And before you say it, yes I am very careful with the three taboo conversation topics even here on my pages: Sex, Politics and Religion. However, I am enlightened enough to say I am open to wisdom and inspiration in any form or shape, and while this book uses bible verses at the end of the chapter for additional sources of inspiration, if you are not inclined, you can skip the bible verses, but please do NOT skip the questions that ask you to probe your own soul or you would be doing yourself a great dis-service. Those questions are for self examination and evaluation, and while you think you may know the answers, keep that pen and paper handy and WRITE out the answers to each question at the end of each chapter, your answers just may surprise you and seeing them written is super powerful.

I recommend this book to my friends in Faith and those who are not Faith inclined, it is an example of endurance, humor, and the wisdom that comes from a life in progress.

A most excellent Holiday Gift in my opinion.

Spill Butterflies: What is your favorite Memoir? or even if it wasn't exactly your favorite, what was the last Memoir you read?

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FTC Disclosure: This is a sponsored post, all opinions are 100% 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 & Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure. Things that lure this butterfly out of her cocoon: Technology, Travel, Fashion, Beauty, Spirits (Sparkling, Champagne, Prosecco, Sake, Bourbon, Craft Brews), Foodie Fun - really I'm such a *simple girl*.

Friday, December 30, 2016

As you say Goodbye to 2016 and Hello to 2017, inspired by @NinoProdigio

Abundance, Cosmic
I welcome ABUNDANCE into my life in 2017

As a Life and Career Coach and Human Interest Reporter the techniques I have adopted over time for preparing for the upcoming year are as follows:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Your birthday is actually your *PERSONAL* New Year - I like my year resetting here instead of New Year's Eve. I like to reflect on what worked or didn't work for me a bit before my birthday.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥ - Pick a word - It is said you should pick a word that reflects what you wish to manifest in the new year.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥ - Intention vs Resolution - If you pick a word that word will become an intention, you have more of a chance of being successful with an intention than you might with a resolution.

Look at the definitions:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥ - res·o·lu·tion
[ˌrezəˈlo͞oSH(ə)n]
NOUN
a firm decision to do or not to do something:
"she kept her resolution not to see Anne any more"
synonyms: intention · resolve · decision · intent · aim · plan
the action of solving a problem, dispute, or contentious matter:
"the peaceful resolution of all disputes"
synonyms: solution to · answer to · end to · ending to · settlement of
chemistry
the process of reducing or separating something into its components.
the smallest interval measurable by a scientific (especially optical) instrument; the resolving power.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥ - in·ten·tion
/inˈten(t)SH(ə)n/
noun
1.
a thing intended; an aim or plan:
"she was full of good intentions"
2.
the healing process of a wound.

My Take:

Instead of just focusing on an 'ending' wouldn't you rather focus on something 'healing'?

Oddly enough an astrologer (for my Latinos in the house, it was "El Nino Prodigio" - in case you are wondering this is NOT a sponsored post and I was not asked to link to him, he has no idea who I am) - suggested that for those born my under my zodiac sign (Aries if you are wondering) - the "intention" word I should select for this year is "Abundance".

Oddly my first name, Tracy - means "The Harvester".

Hmmm...The Harvester of Abundance - there is just something so right about that.

So while I may not set specific resolutions, I *LOVE* the idea of embracing 'Abundance' as my intention word for this upcoming year. Your intention word is something you wish to manifest and create more of  in your life. And since 'abundance' can apply to almost every area of your life, I am embracing this suggestion.

So while I focus on the things I want for the upcoming year I will visualize them coming in abundance.

Wishing all my butterflies out there a Healthy, Happy, Prosperous and Abundance filled New Year. May 2017 be your best year yet.

Please stay safe on New Year's Eve and do NOT get into any car if the driver has been drinking, whether it is someone you know or a taxi, if the driver appears inebriated, do NOT get in.


Readers Sound Off: Do you set resolutions for the New Year? If so, what are some of yours and why? If you don't set resolutions, will you consider an intention word for this upcoming year?

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

FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a Compensated/Sponsored Post 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.

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?

˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙
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! :)

Monday, April 4, 2016

Today is my 'Personal New Year' otherwise known as my 'birthday' - here are some gifts for YOU! #MondayMotivation


I am fascinated by astrology. Years ago I read that our Birthday's are really the start of our year - yes, our astrological year, but our personal year as well.

It resonated.

New Year's Eve never really resonated as a beginning to me, and in 2011 the night lost it's 'joy' for me, some of you will know what I mean by that, others won't. It's a long story and my archives are certainly searchable if you are curious.

Today is my birthday, making 4/4 the start of my year - astrologically and personally.

Here is what I've learned so far:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - I can't make everyone happy. - I am not telling you not to try, but I can tell you to work on making YOURSELF happy - and not just once and awhile. Do one thing each and every single day that brings you joy. For me, it's music, photography and travel. I can't travel everyday (although that would make me super happy) but I can listen to music. So I do.


Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - I can't keep every ball in the air. - I am not a juggler. I am a multi-tasker, but I am not a juggler, some days a ball or two will fall. It's OK.


Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Clothes and Shoes aren't the only things you will outgrow. - We outgrow people, relationships, situations, jobs, as we ascend different things will suit us, others won't. It's OK to Spring Clean your life. Sweep out the relationships that fill you with dread, the people who make you cringe, the ones you send to voicemail when they call you, the ones on Facebook that annoy the hell out of you - use the unfriend button. It's OK. The world and your world won't crumble. Just remember, disagreements are not cause to automatically let go, you aren't always going to see eye to eye with someone no matter how much you love them and how much they mean to you, it's not about seeing eye to eye all the time, it's just knowing when to agree to disagree!


Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Love the person - Remember what I just wrote above - don't sweep someone out of your life because you don't see eye to eye on sex or politics. Love the person not their politics. Love the person, not who they worship. Love the person, don't worry about what goes on in their bedroom. (unless it's the person you are actually in a relationship with, then you should totally know what's going on in the bedroom).


Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - You know nothing about yourself - Ever. You are a constantly changing, ever transforming work in progress. What you feel about politics, sex and religion will change throughout the years. oh, did I say that's OK yet? Because it is. If you can admit you don't always have it all together: (a) you are doing great and (b) be more compassionate of the person across from you (they are juggling shit too).


Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Loss - Loss will hit us all eventually. - There is no right way to handle it. There is no wrong way to handle it. And even in cases where you know it's coming, trust me when I tell you that you still won't expect it.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Turn your mess into your miracle - You know that annoying saying 'You can't get rainbows without the rain'? - Sorry to tell you but it's true. Diamonds are formed via High Pressure (um, not from a lump of coal), and that is exactly what life does to you, puts you through high pressure, if you ride through the waves of pressure you come out polished not demolished! My biggest mess: I'm an insomniac - it's hard to turn my brain off - but I realize I've made really good use of the extra time and that my insomnia is probably why I love to read, research, and write.


Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - And if you can only remember one golden nugget? - JUST SAY NO! - The more you learn to say it, the happier you will be!

I'm off to make a New Year's Wish List just in time for the New Moon on the 7th! Happy Birthday to my fellow Aries peeps!

Readers Sound Off/Your Take: What Day is your personal new year? What is the most important thing you have learned so far?

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


FTC Disclosure:  This is NOT a Sponsored Post, All opinions are 100% 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.