Today's Words of Inspiration - Ah Those Tricky Virtues!

Title: 'Church Banner Patience' Photo Credit @sawlong101

 Ah Those Tricky Virtues!

Learn the art of patience. Apply discipline to your thoughts when they become anxious over the outcome of a goal. Impatience breeds anxiety, fear, discouragement and failure. Patience creates confidence, decisiveness, and a rational outlook, which eventually leads to success. ~ Brian Adams

Patience is one of those pesky little virtues that life constantly puts to the test. And sometimes dear readers, I pass with flying colors. And other times, well, Not So Much!

These week has been a true test of patience on many levels. My PC which is my pretty much lifeline is acting completely wonky, but it's only a few months old! It was purchased mid 2010 and has not even made a full year. It was purchased to replace a dying laptop from the same manufacturer. I guess in this instance brand loyalty, did NOT serve me well. At one point it wouldn't even power on, and I really thought I'd lost a year's worth of music and pictures not to mention my blog back up files.....I haven't been able to process entries or respond to emails in the timely manner I am used to handling things. This week has not made for a happy camper!

This week has also shown me I have a TON more to learn about Patience. Like most I am super glad 2010 is behind me, but I don't want 2011 to be a repeat in any way and to do so, I need to learn to better master the art of patience!

Today's Challenge: So How do you Keep your Cool, when it's hot as Hades in your Life?

The heat is on, certainly not literally we have back to back snow storms in the City that never sleeps, but figuratively speaking it's getting HOT in here! This week deep breathing, affirmations, every positive tool in my arsenal flew out the window. Leaving me quite confused! That's why I'm happy I came across this quote, it served as an instant reminder that my impatience and frustration with the challenges and obstacles I've faced this week, are only putting me in a 'negative catch 22' the more impatient I was about the work piling up that I could not conquer because my PC was down, kept me from doing things that I very well COULD have accomplished. Impatience actually zapped my productivity! Not fun, but lesson certainly learned, and now shared with you!

 

Today's Words of Inspiration'

Use 'Today's Words of Inspiration' as a breathing meditation to still your mind, quiet your thoughts and bring in positive energy. As you inhale bring in only positive energy by saying in your mind, I breathe in positive energy (or you can say creative energy if that is what you wish to create more of) and as you exhale, Affirm out loud 'I am patient, with myself and others and maintain my equilibrium in all situations.'

Spend some time each day enjoying focused breathing AND soul guided meditative visualization, in doing so, you can bring about profound and powerful changes in your life.

Visualize yourself manifesting something unique, guided by universal forces that emerge spontaneously from within your soul. Do this at least twice today and see how by taking a moment away from the hectic pace and breathing in positive energy and affirming what you wish to create, your thinking will become different.

Remember, attitude really does determine altitude.

It is OK to *Re-Tweet* the link to this post and You can find me (@Tracy_Iglesias) on Twitter here! Twitter love: re*tweet by copying and pasting the following into your update field:

@Tracy_Iglesias #ascendingbutterfly - Today's Words of #Inspiration - http://tiny.cc/n4Thx

Make this your best day ever, Bless and Be Blessed!

Active Giveaways!

1) Ends 01/13 - Dear Mr. Patridge Limited Edition Gift Set from Mor Cosmetics Giveaway! - Enter HERE!

 

2) NEW! - Ends 01/13 - NEW YEAR, NEW YOU! Giveaway - Win a pair of Ryn Footwear Shoes with Rocker Technology! Pair of YOUR Choice, Men or Women's! Enter HERE!

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Advertising Special:

For the month of January only, you can purchase ONE month of  homepage advertising on Ascending Butterfly for only $20.11, send all inquiries to us via our online contact form (you can use this promo during the month of your choice, but it must contracted before 01/30/11 to secure the promo rate!) here:

http://www.contactify.com/2ee21

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Today's Words of Inspiration - Did you remember to give yourself Permission?

Our brain is hard wired to deny and permit us to do things. Sometimes our brain denies us something because of the years of negative self talk in our heads! Un-doing that self talk is a pro-active step you must take every day to make the changes you want to see happen.

 Permission



Have you ever heard of someone saying that a person is 'afraid of success' and then causes their own failure?

Don't mock it, it is very much true that we can sub-consciously sabotage our success! Innate fears that tell us we don't deserve it, or it can't last, or it will take to much to maintain that level of success. This negative self talk defeats all of your efforts. Give yourself PERMISSION today to prosper, to succeed, and to be happy!

Today's Challenge: Giving YOURSELF Permission

You must change the negative talk in your head that tells you 'I Can't' with words that affirm that you can. And before you tell me 'easier said than done', I remind you of our recent intention based jewelry giveaway where we learned that it takes 21 days to change a behavior. For the next 21 days, give yourself permission to prosper, succeed and be happy!

Today's Words of Inspiration'

Use 'Today's Words of Inspiration' as a breathing meditation to still your mind, quiet your thoughts and bring in positive energy. As you inhale bring in only positive energy by saying in your mind, I breathe in positive energy (or you can say creative energy if that is what you wish to create more of) and as you exhale, Affirm out loud 'I give myself permission to prosper, succeed and be happy, I affirm my prosperity, I affirm my success and I affirm my happiness!'

Spend some time each day enjoying focused breathing AND soul guided meditative visualization, in doing so, you can bring about profound and powerful changes in your life.

Visualize yourself manifesting something unique, guided by universal forces that emerge spontaneously from within your soul. Do this at least twice today and see how by taking a moment away from the hectic pace and breathing in positive energy and affirming what you wish to create, your thinking will become different.

Remember, attitude really does determine altitude.

It is OK to *Re-Tweet* the link to this post and You can find me (@Tracy_Iglesias) on Twitter here! Twitter love: re*tweet by copying and pasting the following into your update field:

@Tracy_Iglesias #ascendingbutterfly - Today's Words of #Inspiration - http://tiny.cc/n4Thx

Make this your best day ever, Bless and Be Blessed!

Our Holidays Buying Guide is running Overtime! There are still open giveaways from our Holidays Buying Guide on the upper right hand side of the page! And stay tuned this week for the launch of our 'New Year, New YOU!' themed giveaways to help you start your new year right!

 

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Advertising Special:

For the month of January only, you can purchase ONE month of  homepage advertising on Ascending Butterfly for only $20.11, send all inquiries to us via our online contact form here: (you can use this promo during the month of your choice, but it must contracted before 01/30/11 to secure the promo rate!)

http://www.contactify.com/2ee21

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Today's Words of Inspiration - True Happiness!

credit @bing

Do you have true happiness?

Million Dollar Question, Right?

I know readers have been missing the daily words of inspiration, in fact, so have I, and I am happy to be sharing a little inspiration today and an important affirmation! I'd make this one a daily for sure! So let's get back to our roots today, nothing but affirmation and inspiration today, I promise!

Happiness is considered fleeting, mostly because our wants and needs tend to dominate our thoughts. Those wants and needs tend to over-shadow a sense of gratitude for what we DO have. And of course when your thoughts constantly turn themselves back to 'wants' and 'needs', it brings us to a 'lack' mindset. In a 'lack' mindset, you do not experience happiness. That is why I started my gratitude journey daily many years ago. Once a week I stop and read all my entries for the week. That journal is just pure gratitude, when I need to filter my thoughts and vent I use a completely different book. Seeing nothing but what I'm grateful for during that weekly recap of re-reading my entries, puts me back in a state of gratitude where happiness grows.

Is it easy? - NO! Certainly NOT!

Do I have days where I reach for the 'vent' journal before the 'gratitude' journal? - YES, definitely! (I have triggers, when I am feeling over-whelmed, used by people, betrayed or just plain on the receiving end of negative energy I will find myself reaching for the vent journal first. What are YOUR triggers? What changes your mood and thoughts from happiness to despair?)

But striking that balance between shifting my thoughts from lack, which leads to despair, hopelessness and faithlessness and back to gratitude which leads to true happiness is very much a pro-active process.

I strongly recommend starting your day in meditation, in daily affirmational messages and ending it in gratitude with a gratitude journal if at all possible, it helps to re-focus your perspective. That moment of centering helps you start your day off great and end it in tranquility and harmony.

Where does 'True Happiness' Reside?

Within You. It really is that simple. Circumstances will throw you for a loop on occassion, but they can't change your core. When you are in harmony, in gratitude and in an actively upbeat state of being you learn to quiet those sneaky thoughts of lack before they creep in and lead you to despair.

Today's Challenge: Drop Kick 'Lack'!

There is truly nothing in this world that you lack. You have the inner resources to make tremendous change, not only to your world, but the world at large.

Use 'Today's Words of Inspiration' as a breathing meditation to still your mind, quiet your thoughts and bring in positive energy. As you inhale bring in only positive energy by saying in your mind, I breathe in positive energy (or you can say creative energy if that is what you wish to create more of) and as you exhale, Affirm out loud 'I affirm today that I will only allow thoughts that bring me to happiness, there is NOTHING I lack!'

Spend some time each day enjoying focused breathing AND soul guided meditative visualization, in doing so, you can bring about profound and powerful changes in your life.

Visualize yourself manifesting something unique, guided by universal forces that emerge spontaneously from within your soul. Do this at least twice today and see how by taking a moment away from the hectic pace and breathing in positive energy and affirming what you wish to create, your thinking will become different.

Remember, attitude really does determine altitude.

It is OK to *Re-Tweet* the link to this post and You can find me (@Tracy_Iglesias) on Twitter here! Twitter love: re*tweet by copying and pasting the following into your update field:

@Tracy_Iglesias #ascendingbutterfly - Today's Words of #Inspiration - http://tiny.cc/n4Thx

Make this your best day ever, Bless and Be Blessed

Today is a giveaway free day. Our holiday buying guide launches 11/15.

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Today's Words of Inspiration - Only 60 Days Left!

Photo Credit: @funscrape

Are You Ready?

Did you know that there are only 60 days left to the end of the year? We are slowly approaching a time of year that should signal slowing down, spending time with loved ones, yet many of us find ourselves even busier ever! There is always so much to be done, and it seems like the stores usher us straight from one holiday to the next with no pause in between.

How was your Halloween weekend? Did you dress up? (If you have a link to your pictures, please share them!) I hope you remembered to take a moment and enter our fun Halloween giveaway with 1800Baskets.com, if you didn't there is still time, Enter by clicking HERE!

Today's Challenge: Get Your Spirit Ready for this new season!

Remember to give yourself your some time to get your spirit ready for the new season ahead. You need to make your inner house just as ready as your physical house! I know many people cut back on 'me-time', on meditation, yoga, workouts or spiritual walks because of the extra demands of the season, increased work hours, extra shopping, do it yourself projects in the home, and then feel over-worked and over-wraught during the holidays. That frazzled feeling takes away from the fun!

So don't cut back on those things that do your heart and your emotional well-being so much good! It is during this season that you need those things more than ever!

Use 'Today's Words of Inspiration' as a breathing meditation to still your mind, quiet your thoughts and bring in positive energy. As you inhale bring in only positive energy by saying in your mind, I breathe in positive energy (or you can say creative energy if that is what you wish to create more of) and as you exhale, Affirm out loud 'I affirm today that I will ready my inner house before my outer one to ready myself for an exciting new season ahead!'

"Autumn is a second spring where every leaf is a flower." ~ Albert Camus

Spend some time each day enjoying focused breathing AND soul guided meditative visualization, in doing so, you can bring about profound and powerful changes in your life.

Visualize yourself manifesting something unique, guided by universal forces that emerge spontaneously from within your soul. Do this at least twice today and see how by taking a moment away from the hectic pace and breathing in positive energy and affirming what you wish to create, your thinking will become different.

Remember, attitude really does determine altitude.

It is OK to *Re-Tweet* the link to this post and You can find me (@Tracy_Iglesias) on Twitter!

Twitter ♥ : re*tweet by copying and pasting the following into your update field:

@Tracy_Iglesias #ascendingbutterfly - Today's Words of #Inspiration and Great #Giveaways! - http://tiny.cc/n4Thx

Make this your best day ever, Bless and Be Blessed

Active Giveaways! Hurry Enter NOW!

1) Ends 11/02 - Dunkin Donuts Flavored Coffee - Review and Giveaway! Enter HERE

2) Ends 11/08 - 3 Baskets for 3 Winners! Review and Giveaway with 1800baskets.com! Enter HERE

3) Coming Soon: Don't forget the Holiday Buying Guide will be launching in November (11/15), and our book club returns too!

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Today's Words of Inspiration - How can I be the change if nothing ever changes?

credit @littlebuddhadesign

How can I be the change if nothing ever changes?

I know what you are thinking: Million Dollar Question, Right?

As cliche as it may sound, 'the change' that you are waiting for, be it a new job, house, mate, friend, car or lifestyle, starts and ends with you.

If nothing around you is changing, it's because you are doing the same things over and over again, and hoping for a new result. That is defined as insanity. A label that may be a bit harsh, but is certainly rooted in some truth. If your routine is the same now as it was 10 years ago, you can't wonder why things have stayed the same.

When does 'The Change' Happen?

Simply put change happens with or without us. With or without our consent and with or without us being ready, but it happens faster, when YOU get fed up. When you are tired of not seeing the level of progress in your life that YOU measure success by. Notice I said YOU. Your friends, family, parents, partner can tell you where your life should be by now, but until you want it, I mean really want it, you won't get there. We put effort into something that we value. Until the change you want to make becomes something of genuine value to you, you won't make it.

Today's Challenge: Get Fed Up of Being Fed Up!

Use 'Today's Words of Inspiration' as a breathing meditation to still your mind, quiet your thoughts and bring in positive energy. As you inhale bring in only positive energy by saying in your mind, I breathe in positive energy (or you can say creative energy if that is what you wish to create more of) and as you exhale, Affirm out loud 'I affirm today that I will put in the effort necessary to cultivate the changes needed to reach my goals and find fulfillment!'

Spend some time each day enjoying focused breathing AND soul guided meditative visualization, in doing so, you can bring about profound and powerful changes in your life.

Visualize yourself manifesting something unique, guided by universal forces that emerge spontaneously from within your soul. Do this at least twice today and see how by taking a moment away from the hectic pace and breathing in positive energy and affirming what you wish to create, your thinking will become different.

Remember, attitude really does determine altitude.

It is OK to *Re-Tweet* the link to this post and You can find me (@Tracy_Iglesias) on Twitter here! Twitter love: re*tweet by copying and pasting the following into your update field:

@Tracy_Iglesias #ascendingbutterfly - Today's Words of #Inspiration and Great #Giveaways! - http://tiny.cc/n4Thx

Make this your best day ever, Bless and Be Blessed

Active Giveaways! Hurry Enter Now!

1) Ends 10/28 - Breast Cancer Awareness Giveaway with Satya Jewelry! Win the Cherry Quartz Om Bracelet (ARV $48)  HERE

2) Ends 10/31 - Plenty of Dresses Review and Giveaway - Win the Item of YOUR choice! Any Dress, Blouse/Top in any style, size or color! HERE

3) Coming Soon: A special giveaway with Smashbox (this was due to YOUR popular demand), Halloween/Fall Treats from 1-800Baskets and so much MORE! Don't forget the Holiday Buying Guide will be launching in November (11/15), and our book club returns too!

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Today's Words of Inspiration - Sometimes you have to dis-connect to re-connect!

Yesterday thanks to my friends at Heads Up International I ended up taking an un-planned day away from all things electronic to enjoy a Private VIP Dress Rehearsal prior to her world tour of a Jazz Singer named Esperanza Spalding. I wasn't very familiar with her work, but I am very grateful for the opportunity to have attended a very lovely reception, the actual Dress Rehearsal and the very enlightening Questions & Answers session conducted immediately after.

While we braved a freak storm to get to the venue, and a bit of confusion in getting underway. The venue was intimate, absolutely perfect for capturing the nuances of Esperanza's powerful voice. Her first name translates into 'hope', and right from the very moment she took the stage, I felt hope, hope that there is still 'real' music out there to pass down. She's a musician's musician, who was at ease jamming with her team of amazing musicians and accompanying vocalists. The emotion is still raw, you can tell the 'bigness' that is now encompassing her life, her style and her music yet it is still very new. Much for her to take in I'm sure!

After her captivating debut last year, 25 year old bassist Esperanza Spalding is back for an encore by popular demand. Blending innovative vocal stylings with uncanny instrumental chops, she has already taken the jazz world by storm, performing with such distinguished musicians as Stanley Clarke, Dave Samuels, Pat Metheny and others. Clearly an up and coming star,she performed at the White House in February, 2009 and was also invited to play at the 2009 Nobel Peace Prize ceremony in honor of President Obama. That's BIG!

I love all kinds of music, and apparently so too does Esperanza, there were hints of all kinds of world music in her repertoire, including Argentinean, Brazilean, South African and more. During the Questions And Answers Period, many questions led back to what her influences are and who inspires her, lyrically she cited many great writers, from Herman Melville to Pablo Neruda and musically from Prince, Stevie Wonder, and Beyonce to work from her bandmates who seem to constantly surprise and inspire one another. And her take on the globalization influences in Art was very much spot on. These influences were certainly seen during her set!

There is just something about sitting in a room with Jazz Lovers, you can feel 'one love' amongst people who are passionate for pure music, raw emotion, transcendent flow, it reminds you of similarities and makes differences so irrelevant they disappear, it unites you with perfect strangers. It can even turn a perfect stranger into a friend.

I came back from the concert, renewed, invigorated and energized. The chance to step away from all things technology based, and connect myself with something more powerful, like song, emotion, communion, and a gathering of energy through music; I feel totally renewed!

I plan to reach out to her label in an effort to host a review & giveaway of her album 'Chamber Music Society' which had it's debut as the #1 Jazz Album on iTunes and has remained at #1 for 7 days since release, #65 iTunes Top 200 (Peak #46). And I can tell you it's for good reason that her album attained #1 in it's debut status, her sound took me to that Speakeasy jazz club referenced in movies that I've never actually been to (because I was just too young or in some cases not even born yet!), it transported me to a place of elegant gowns and men in sharp suits, to dancing, standing up and laughing all night long, to drinks with snazzy names and simple ingredients, to night's I didn't want to see end, to that place in my mind I go during a long bubble bath with jazz playing in the background. . . .it just plain took me places. How much of today's 'modern' sounds can you say actually transport you? to somewhere you WANT to stay!

I came home inspired enough to want to see a real inspiration shared today! I was going to put up a giveaway today to help get us caught up so we'll be ready for the Holiday 2010 Buying Guide, but this feeling of inspiration was just too good to put off for another day!

All I know is that I spent a day 'dis-connecting' to actually 're-connect' today. You know I oftentimes tell you all  to 'disconnect from your 'electronic umbilical cords', and connect to an un-tapped source of a different kind, Yourself. Your Soul. Your Needs. The needs outside the emails, texts, tweets and facebook 'likes'. 

Use 'Today's Words of Inspiration' as a breathing meditation to still your mind, quiet your thoughts and bring in positive energy. As you inhale bring in only positive energy by saying in your mind, I breathe in positive energy (or you can say creative energy if that is what you wish to create more of) and as you exhale, Affirm out loud today 'I will be inspired by MY world. I will be inspired by my voice. Today I will seek out the communion of kindred spirits be it at a concert, coffee shop, record store, or place of worship, I will actively seek out a way to uplift my spirit through sound, be it an instrument, my voice or listening in appreciation to music I truly appreciate and re-explore it's value in my life right NOW!'

Spend some time each day enjoying focused breathing AND soul guided meditative visualization, in doing so, you can bring about profound and powerful changes in your life.

Visualize yourself manifesting something unique, guided by universal forces that emerge spontaneously from within your soul. Do this at least twice today and see how by taking a moment away from the hectic pace and breathing in positive energy and affirming what you wish to create, your thinking will become different.

Remember, attitude really does determine altitude.

It is OK to *Re-Tweet* the link to this post and You can find me (@Tracy_Iglesias) on Twitter here! Twitter love: re*tweet by copying and pasting the following into your update field:

@Tracy_Iglesias #ascendingbutterfly - Today's Words of #Inspiration and Great #Giveaways! - http://tiny.cc/n4Thx

Make this your best day ever, Bless and Be Blessed!

Active Giveaways:

1) Ends TODAY - 09/14 - 3pm Eastern Standard Time - "Fall Into Bags' - Elliott Lucca's Granada Trapezoid Satchel in Twilight Giveaway! HERE (Folks this is one of the hottest bags in Fall's Hot Color, with the trendy turnlock closure showing up on the cool bags this fall, You don't want to miss your chance to win this one!)

2) Ends 09/17 - Back to School with Play-Doh Sesame Street Shape & Spin Elmo Playset Giveaway HERE

3) Coming Soon: Ascending Butterfly's Monthly Book Club Returns!!!

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Today's Words of Inspiration - Happy Labor Day Weekend!

There is power, there is power in a band of working men, when they stand, hand in hand. That’s a power, that’s a power that must rule in every land - Joe Hill

Organizer, Industrial Pioneer, there are tons of descriptions for Joe Hill, but one thing that can't be refuted is that he beleived in the power of work, hard work, a hard days work for an honest days pay.

While Traditionally, Labor Day is celebrated by most Americans as the symbolic end of the summer, with forms of celebration including picnics, barbecues, fireworks displays, water sports, and public art events, its origins are much more politically based. Now, families with school-age children take it as the last chance to travel before the end of summer recess!

What one word description can be placed under your picture to describe you? I'd like to think mine would be 'motivator'

Like Joe, I have a strong work ethic, I'm not afraid to work hard, pitch in, and get the job done.

It's a great weekend to assess 'labor' in the literal and figurative sense in your life. What role do your labors play in shaping who you are? Do you think what you labor at is WHO you are or WHAT you do? Why?

Do you share the same work ethic as your parents or your grand-parents?

The 'labors' put down by our Grand-Parents paved the way for our Parents, and their labors made our path a bit easier, what labors can you make to make the road that much easier for your children?

Use 'Today's Words of Inspiration' as a breathing meditation to still your mind, quiet your thoughts and bring in positive energy. As you inhale bring in only positive energy by saying in your mind, I breathe in positive energy (or you can say creative energy if that is what you wish to create more of) and as you exhale, Affirm out loud today 'I will put thought and motivation into all of my labors!'

Spend some time each day enjoying focused breathing AND soul guided meditative visualization, in doing so, you can bring about profound and powerful changes in your life.

Visualize yourself manifesting something unique, guided by universal forces that emerge spontaneously from within your soul. Do this at least twice today and see how by taking a moment away from the hectic pace and breathing in positive energy and affirming what you wish to create, your thinking will become different.

Remember, attitude really does determine altitude.

It is OK to *Re-Tweet* the link to this post and You can find me (@Tracy_Iglesias) on Twitter here! Twitter love: re*tweet by copying and pasting the following into your update field:

@Tracy_Iglesias #ascendingbutterfly - Today's Words of #Inspiration and Great #Giveaways! - http://tiny.cc/n4Thx

Make this your best day ever, Bless and Be Blessed!

Active Giveaways:

1) Ends 09/14 - "Fall Into Bags' - Elliott Lucca's Granada Trapezoid Satchel in Twilight Giveaway! HERE

2) Ends 09/07 - Smashbox Brow Tech Trio Review and Giveaway! HERE

3) Coming Soon: Back To School Giveaway with PlayDoh!

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Today's Words of Inspiration - Inspiration in Action

Inspiration rarely falls from mid-air into our laps. Just like inspiration sometimes comes from bold action, action also brings about inspiration.

This week we have been focusing on Companies that give back, 'brands with heart' and the initiatives they are taking to help communities-at-large and the world!

I find it inspiring to just take action! Action for change. Action for realization. Realization that causes change in you that causes you to take action!

Use 'Today's Words of Inspiration' as a breathing meditation to still your mind, quiet your thoughts and bring in positive energy. As you inhale bring in only positive energy by saying in your mind, I breathe in positive energy (or you can say creative energy if that is what you wish to create more of) and as you exhale, Affirm out loud today 'I will put inspiration in action! I will make a BOLD move!'

Spend some time each day enjoying focused breathing AND soul guided meditative visualization, in doing so, you can bring about profound and powerful changes in your life.

Visualize yourself manifesting something unique, guided by universal forces that emerge spontaneously from within your soul. Do this at least twice today and see how by taking a moment away from the hectic pace and breathing in positive energy and affirming what you wish to create, your thinking will become different.

Remember, attitude really does determine altitude.

It is OK to *Re-Tweet* the link to this post and You can find me (@Tracy_Iglesias) on Twitter here! Twitter love: re*tweet by copying and pasting the following into your update field:

@Tracy_Iglesias #ascendingbutterfly - Today's Words of #Inspiration and Great #Giveaways! #eatpraylove - http://tiny.cc/n4Thx

Make this your best day ever, Bless and Be Blessed!

Active Giveaways:

1) Back to School with Staples $50 Gift Card Giveaway! Ends 08/27 Enter HERE
2) Smashbox Brow Tech Trio Review and Giveaway! Ends 09/07  Enter HERE

Keep your eyes on the homepage's 'Win Here - Today's Butterfly' section we have more great giveaways to come! Stay tuned for our upcoming return of our Book Club, and the return of our special Handbags feature, whose name has now changed with the upcoming new season, so keep an eye out for 'Fall into Bags' coming soon! (And a new special feature I am keeping hush hush for now!)

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Life Without Detour - Is it Possible?

I originally had this in mind for Wordless Wednesday, but I didn't want to delay our Back To School Giveaway.

As you all know I went to see Eat Pray Love on opening weekend, and it highlights life's detours. Is Life Without Detour really possible? Would you really want it?

I sometimes think the detours have made life better. The delayed flights, late trains, missed buses,that resulted in great conversations with a stranger who you now can't imagine life without. While we all deserve life wihout detours, sometimes detours happen. Let yourself enjoy them!

Use 'Today's Words of Inspiration' as a breathing meditation to still your mind, quiet your thoughts and bring in positive energy. As you inhale bring in only positive energy by saying in your mind, I breathe in positive energy (or you can say creative energy if that is what you wish to create more of) and as you exhale, Affirm out loud today 'While I deserve a life without detours, I will see them as the opportunities for growth they really are!'

Spend some time each day enjoying focused breathing AND soul guided meditative visualization, in doing so, you can bring about profound and powerful changes in your life.

Visualize yourself manifesting something unique, guided by universal forces that emerge spontaneously from within your soul. Do this at least twice today and see how by taking a moment away from the hectic pace and breathing in positive energy and affirming what you wish to create, your thinking will become different.

Remember, attitude really does determine altitude.

It is OK to *Re-Tweet* the link to this post and You can find me (@Tracy_Iglesias) on Twitter here! Twitter love: re*tweet by copying and pasting the following into your update field:

@Tracy_Iglesias #ascendingbutterfly - Today's Words of #Inspiration and Great #Giveaways! #eatpraylove - http://tiny.cc/n4Thx

Make this your best day ever, Bless and Be Blessed!

Active Giveaways:

1) Back to School with Staples $50 Gift Card Giveaway! Ends 08/27 Enter HERE

Keep your eyes on the homepage's 'Win Here - Today's Butterfly' section we have more great giveaways to come! Stay tuned for our upcoming Smashbox giveaway, the return of our Book Club, and the return of our special Handbags feature, whose name has now changed with the upcoming new season, so keep an eye out for 'Fall into Bags' coming soon! (And a new special feature I am keeping hush hush for now!)

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Today's Words of Inspiration - Every Wall is a Door!

I saw this today on dancelightly.com and it really resonated with me! This is exactly how I've been feeling lately. And this small shift in perspective has moved mountains in my life. You can read quotes and affirmations daily for years upon years until one actually resonates with you in a way that makes changes happen! Those changes happen because of the shift in your perspective, because you are vibrationally aligned with the words, they move you, because you are actually allowing them to!

Don't see walls today, see Doors.

Doors Open. Walls can only be broken to be moved.

Where is the wall in your life? Can you put a doorknob on that wall?

Use 'Today's Words of Inspiration' as a breathing meditation to still your mind, quiet your thoughts and bring in positive energy. As you inhale bring in only positive energy by saying in your mind, I breathe in positive energy (or you can say creative energy if that is what you wish to create more of) and as you exhale, Affirm out loud today 'I walk through doors with ease, Today, I am vibrationally aligned with my intentions!'

Spend some time each day enjoying focused breathing AND soul guided meditative visualization, in doing so, you can bring about profound and powerful changes in your life.

Visualize yourself manifesting something unique, guided by universal forces that emerge spontaneously from within your soul. Do this at least twice today and see how by taking a moment away from the hectic pace and breathing in positive energy and affirming what you wish to create, your thinking will become different.

Remember, attitude really does determine altitude.

It is OK to *Re-Tweet* the link to this post and You can find me (@Tracy_Iglesias) on Twitter here! Twitter love: re*tweet by copying and pasting the following into your update field:

OK to RT: @Tracy_Iglesias #ascendingbutterfly - Today's Words of #Inspiration and Great #Giveaways! - http://tiny.cc/n4Thx

Make this your best day ever, Bless and Be Blessed!

Active Giveaways:

1) Ends 08/13 - 'Slip Into Summer' with a Twisted Orchid Animal Friendly Handbag Giveaway HERE!

2) Ends 08/16 - ProFlowers Organic Extravaganza Fruit Basket Giveaway! HERE!

Keep your eyes on the homepage's 'Win Here - Today's Butterfly' section we have more great giveaways to come!

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

Today's Words of Inspiration - Life is Short!

Ascending Butterfly is counting down to BlogHer 2010 in New York City, and there is so much to do and so little time to do it in!

So please don't be alarmed if posts are sporadic this week and please note it will take a bit longer than usual for comment moderation, so if you don't see your entry, don't put in another one, we are moderating giveaway entries, it's just taking a bit longer than usual!

I love this picture, Life is Short, and time can sometimes be our enemy as well as our friend. So don't let fear hold you back this week!

Do you regret not seizing an opportunity?

This week is all about seizing opportunities for me, and for creating them as well!

If you are going to BlogHer 2010 this year, be sure to look for me, it will definitely be worth it to find me (hint, hint, wink, wink!)

Use 'Today's Words of Inspiration' as a breathing meditation to still your mind, quiet your thoughts and bring in positive energy. As you inhale bring in only positive energy by saying in your mind, I breathe in positive energy (or you can say creative energy if that is what you wish to create more of) and as you exhale, Affirm out loud today 'I make the most of my time and am ready to seize opportunities!'

Spend some time each day enjoying focused breathing AND soul guided meditative visualization, in doing so, you can bring about profound and powerful changes in your life.

Visualize yourself manifesting something unique, guided by universal forces that emerge spontaneously from within your soul. Do this at least twice today and see how by taking a moment away from the hectic pace and breathing in positive energy and affirming what you wish to create, your thinking will become different.

Remember, attitude really does determine altitude.

It is OK to *Re-Tweet* the link to this post and You can find me (@Tracy_Iglesias) on Twitter here! Twitter love: re*tweet by copying and pasting the following into your update field:

OK to RT: @Tracy_Iglesias #ascendingbutterfly - Today's Words of #Inspiration and Great #Giveaways! - http://tiny.cc/n4Thx

Make this your best day ever, Bless and Be Blessed!

Active Giveaways:

1) Ends 08/10 - Idox360 Review and Giveaway - protect your iPod or iPhone and view video easily on the go! HERE

2) Ends 08/13 - 'Slip Into Summer' with a Twisted Orchid Animal Friendly Handbag Giveaway HERE!

3) NEWEST: Ends 08/16 - ProFlowers Organic Extravaganza Fruit Basket Giveaway! HERE!

Keep your eyes on the homepage's 'Win Here - Today's Butterfly' section we have more great giveaways to come!

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

This Week's Moment of Gratitude! - Well we danced by the light of the moon!

There is an impending Full Moon energy that has been clouding things up a bit cosmically speaking. Full Moons are considered endings; perhaps a chapter in your life is closing now. In the clear light of the Full Moon, you are able to distinguish what may be holding you back and what you need to break free of before you can move forward. Start with a junk drawer, then move to a closet. Maybe the clear light of the moon will help you see your items with fresh new eyes.

Sometimes even songs capture the nostalgia that is arisen during a new moon phase and help us put our feelings into perspective.

Seals & Crofts Dance by the Light of the Moon Lyrics:

Remember the old days when I met you. I never

thought I would get you. Remember the good times

we shared together, and now they're just a song.

Remember the first time that I saw you. Remember

the first time that I taught you. Remember the old

friends we knew together, and how they've all gone

on.

Well we danced by the light of the moon. The band

kept on playing that tune. You asked me to carry

you home, we were alone. And then I saw moonlight

dance in your hair. Now I'll never, never, never

see it again. No I'll never, ever, ever have it

again. It's gone, just like the song that lives

on.

Doesn't it seem like the right time. I wanna go

way back through my lifetime. Gotta go way back

and re-live those days, when everything was mine.

Doesn't it seem like a long ways. Back through the

fog and the byways. Doesn't it seem strange it

took so long, but I saw it all today.

The moon through the trees did go down. The

snowflakes had covered the ground. Morning left

moonlight behind; day was unkind. But then I saw

lovelight dance in your hair. Ah I'll never,

never, never see it again. I'll never, ever, ever

have it again. Oh no, just the snow and I know.

What do these lyrics remind you of? The bolded lines really resonated most with me. This new moon weekend has found many I know purging their closets and while I at first bucked the idea,  I think I will spend the day doing much of the same. Getting rid of the old will make room for the new, and also let me know clearly what I still value by what makes the cut in the 'save' pile by the time I'm through.

After I clean my closets and get nostalgic over what has to go because it no longer serves a purpose or fills a need, I'm also going to take a moment to really enjoy the pieces that 'made the cut' the ones staying with me because I need them a little longer on my journey. Then I'll stare in complete satisfaction at the empty space I've made.  And the wonder and possibility of what is going to fill this new space in my life.

When that's all done.......I may just have to dance.....by the light of moon.....and let moonbeams dance across my hair. What will your full/new moon ritual be?

This Full Moon in humanitarian Aquarius is a time to tie up loose ends and see just how you can make a difference in the bigger worldly picture. Other Aquarius Full Moon themes include a breaking free of the status quo, visionary ideas, worldly knowledge, and unexpected breakthroughs. (I could use a few of those, how about you?)

Make this your Best Week Ever!

Share what you are grateful for this week! (You can share on this thread daily, I will post weekly!) I am grateful for the day of Rest after a long week of hard work! I plan to allow myself work free time and errands free time and just be at peace. I'm thinking it's a great night to catch up with an old friend! Laughter is the most healing medicine I can think of after such a long, stressful week!

Remember Attitude Really Does Determine Altitude!

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Today's Words of Inspiration - Un-answered Prayers!

Do you beleive that some of God's Greatest Gifts are un-answered prayers? If so, Why?

I do beleive in the saying. I prayed for a job in the World Trade Center that I didn't get. For a long time I couldn't understand why, I was qualified, I did well at the interview and I really liked everything about the position.

Thankfully, I didn't get the job.

Thankfully my prayer went un-answered. Or at least, not answered the way I wanted it to. What happened there shortly after, could have very easily been me.

I know many struggle with prayers un-answered, myself included, but before you pump your fists and shout at the sky, think that there may very well be a reason for delays or prayers that go seemingly 'un-answered'.

Use 'Today's Words of Inspiration' as a breathing meditation to still your mind, quiet your thoughts and bring in positive energy. As you inhale bring in only positive energy by saying in your mind, I breathe in positive energy (or you can say creative energy if that is what you wish to create more of) and as you exhale, Affirm out loud today 'I am as grateful for the prayers un-answered as I am for the ones that have been granted me!'

Spend some time each day enjoying focused breathing AND soul guided meditative visualization, in doing so, you can bring about profound and powerful changes in your life.

Visualize yourself manifesting something unique, guided by universal forces that emerge spontaneously from within your soul. Do this at least twice today and see how by taking a moment away from the hectic pace and breathing in positive energy and affirming what you wish to create, your thinking will become different.

Remember, attitude really does determine altitude.

It is OK to *Re-Tweet* the link to this post and You can find me (@Tracy_Iglesias) on Twitter here! Twitter love: re*tweet by copying and pasting the following into your update field:

OK to RT: @Tracy_Iglesias #ascendingbutterfly - Today's Words of #Inspiration and Great #Giveaways! - http://tiny.cc/n4Thx

Make this your best day ever, Bless and Be Blessed!

Active Giveaways:

1) Ends 07/27 - Win a turquoise hamsa pendant necklace from Satya Jewelry! (ARV $118.00)  HERE

2) Ends 07/30 -'Slip Into Summer' Special Feature - 3 winners will win their choice of Oka B shoes HERE

3) Ends 07/30 -Enter to win a Beautyzzz Natural Silk Pillow Case (ARV $47 each) - 5 winners - HERE

4) Ends 08/02 -Wanchai Ferry Review & Giveaway!  - HERE

Keep your eyes on the homepage's 'Win Here - Today's Butterfly' section we have some great giveaways still to come!

I try to mix things up and keep it interesting, but I know many expressed a strong desire to have affirmations and an inspiration go up this week, and honestly I was missing it too! Have a great weekend!

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

Today's Words of Inspiration and Great Giveaways - Make A Wish!

Yesterday was not only the Summer Solstice, but last night there was a comet in the sky! The green comet named 'McNaught 2009 R1' was named by Robert McNaught. A Scottish Australian who spots lots of comets. A comet can produce shooting stars, did anyone see the comet or shooting stars last night?

Even if  you didn't see it, Make A Wish today anway! If you need a reminder, visit this fabulous article on eHow called 'How to Wish Upon a Star',  it's so true that in adult-hood we often forget just how fun this can be!

Just remember, don't tell anyone your wish until it comes true!

Use 'Today's Words of Inspiration' as a breathing meditation to still your mind, quiet your thoughts and bring in positive energy. As you inhale bring in only positive energy by saying in your mind, I breathe in positive energy (or you can say creative energy if that is what you wish to create more of) and as you exhale, Affirm out loud today 'I will a make a secret wish upon this night's first star!'

Spend some time each day enjoying focused breathing AND soul guided meditative visualization, in doing so, you can bring about amazing, profound and powerful changes in your life.

Visualize yourself manifesting something unique, guided by universal forces that emerge spontaneously from within your soul. Do this at least twice today and see how by taking a moment away from the hectic pace and breathing in positive energy and affirming what you wish to create, your thinking will become different.

Remember, attitude really does determine altitude.

It is OK to *Re-Tweet* the link to this post and You can find me @Tracy_Iglesias on Twitter here! Twitter love: re*tweet by copying and pasting the following into your update field:

OK to RT: Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - @Tracy_Iglesias #ascendingbutterfly - Today's Words of #Inspiration and Great #Giveaways! - http://tiny.cc/n4Thx

Make this your best day ever, Bless and Be Blessed!

Don't forget to enter the great giveaways on the upper right hand side of the page! It's just our way of saying Thank You for choosing to spend part of your day with us. We are really happy you landed HERE! Don't forget to use the share button below any inspiration to stumble, digg, tweet or share with your friends on facebook and twitter! And if you want to share inspiration with other members, Ascending Butterfly has a Community group with real time chat HERE! (Note we have moved our NING group over to Spruz, if you haven't already done so, please switch over to the new community)

Active Giveaways:

(1) Ends TODAY (3pm EST),  get in your entrry NOW - 'Spring Into Bags' Special Feature - Win the CAMENAE 'Siren Mogano’ Leather Shoulder Bag! ARV $1,135 enter HERE

(2) Win an Underwear Drawer Makeover for Dad (or for you!) - In the form of a Jockey.com e gift card for $50 HERE

(3) Win a Stylish Necktie from abcneckties - it's as easy as 'a,b,c' - 2 winners! enter to win HERE

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TWO WINNER ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Congratulations to 'Louis' (we post our winner usernames instead of full names, this is why it's in quotes) the winner of Ascending Butterfly's Dove Men+Care Giveaway!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Congratulations to 'saphyress' (we post our winner usernames instead of full names, this is why it's in quotes) the winner of Ascending Butterfly's 1800baskets.com Father's Day Meat and Cheese Grand Basket Giveaway!

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It's my 'Blog-A-Versary'

H a p p y B i r t h d a y!

Today, Ascending Butterfly is officially one year old! It's our 'Blog-A-Versary'! And it's thanks to each and every one of you! We've grown in leaps and bounds, THANKS TO YOU!

It has been quite a year. One of trial and error, learning, change and the transformation that butterflies are the very symbol of.

I can only hope I've inspired you all a quarter of how you've all inspired me! From sharing your moments of gratitude & inspiration with me each week, your triumphs, your happy and not so happy moments and the glimpses into your lives that you've shared with me it's been an interesting ride and I look forward to discovering what the next year will bring!

I also want to thank the many giveaway sponsors we have worked with this year. Especially the ones who took a chance on us in the very begining when we were a much smaller community than we are now.

Even though this was just supposed to be a blog-a-versary thread, I couldn't resist leaving you with some words of inspiration anyway, 'Just for Today, I will celebrate the small victories, I will be thankful for all those little things that made my day complete'. Celebrate the small victory you make today, later on, it will become a much bigger deal than it is right now!

Remember, Attitude Really Does Determine Altitude!

We'll meet again here same time next year for another 'Blog-A-Versary', hopefully with triple the amount of people! (By then we will need a party planning committee!) Until then, I'll just keep spreading my wings and see just how far they can take me in my virtual life, and my 'real' one! (I'll admit the lines are getting pretty blurry!)

Make this your best day ever, Bless and Be Blessed!

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