Showing posts with label books. Show all posts
Showing posts with label books. Show all posts

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*.

Thursday, September 17, 2015

I got to see @ParamountPics @Captive #movie before it hits theaters, and so can YOU #FollowYourPurpose

Captive Movie 2015 Theatrical Poster, Entertainment, Movies
"God changed me because he changed my life." ~Ashley Smith Robinson

God Changed My Life
Ashley Smith Robinson gave a 'soundbite' so powerful during her interview recently on the daytime television talk show "The View", that I knew I had to open with those words. That simple sentence IS everything and captures (no pun intended) the essence of the movie that tells the tale of a very harrowing experience that her quick thinking and her faith got her safely out of.

The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren, Book, Books

Can God and a Book Save YOUR Life?

Unlikely Angel by Ashley Smith, Book, Books

ABOUT:

Captive is a crime-drama thriller directed by Jerry Jameson which is based on the non-fiction book Unlikely Angel: The Untold Story of the Atlanta Hostage Hero by Ashley Smith. A very much true story about Brian Nichols (played in the movie David Oyelowo) who escapes from the Fulton County Courthouse in Atlanta - where he was on trial for a rape case (March 11, 2005) and holds Ashley Smith (played by Kate Mara) hostage. During Brian's escape he murders Judge Rowland Barnes, court reporter Julie Brandau and shoots Sergeant Hoyt Teasley while making his escape. He also kills Agent David G. Wilhelm. Brian kidnaps Ashley to use as a hostage. He manages to elude a statewide manhunt and takes Ashley who is a single mother struggling with Meth Addiction (at THAT time) hostage in HER OWN apartment. Over the course of the hours she is held hostage, Ashley desperately uses a book she had been given (one that she rejected when it was first offered to her, but thankfully the person was persistent), Rick Warren's The Purpose Driven Life - What On Earth Am I Here For? and reads from it as a way to reason with her captor who held her captive for SEVEN hours - with surprising results.

TRAILER:


SEE IT FIRST:

TODAY!!!!

Be the first to see the movie "Captive" at one-night only "Captive: Night Of Purpose" Events at Theaters Across the U.S. on Thursday, September 17th! Experience EXCLUSIVE content and conversations (moderated by Gayle King) with the Film's Cast (stars David Oyelowo and Kate Mara) and Filmmakers (Producer Terry Botwick) starting at 7:00 p.m. at participating theaters across the United States. For a list of participating theaters visit: http://captivemovieresources.com/nightofpurpose

Churches and Community Groups can host their own 'Night of Purpose Event'. Buy blocks of tickets or rent out a theater, learn more at http://captivemovieresources.com/hostapremiere or email info@captivemovieresources.com

Left: The real Ashley Smith Robinson now, Right: Actor David Oyelowo who plays her captor Brian Nichols in the movie Captive, in theaters September 18, 2015
Left: The real Ashley Smith Robinson now, Right: Actor David Oyelowo who plays her captor Brian Nichols in the movie Captive, in theaters September 18, 2015
MY TAKE:

This isn't a movie someone can give a 'thumbs up' or 'thumbs down' rating on, this is a TRUE STORY. This is Ashley's story. It's raw and honest. Her life is an open book and I can't imagine that being easy. Overcoming addiction, adjusting to life as a single mother and the night you start getting your new place ready for your little one and you, someone turns your world upside down and holds you hostage. In your own home. Think about that for a moment. Who needs a horror movie, when 'real life' provides the material for a nightmare come true?

Oddly shortly after seeing the press screening for this movie, I experienced being followed into my apartment complex, while it didn't get as bad as Ashley's ordeal (THANK GOD), writing this post was a bit difficult to do.

Want more of the story? You can find out where they are now by watching the all-new season of "Oprah: Where Are They Now?" which premieres on Saturday, September 19 at 10:00 PM on the OWN Television Network. (On the episode Ashley will meet her captor Brian's mother, Claritha Nichols for the first time!)

Today's Talking Points/Call to Action:

Have you ever read a book that changed your life? Please share it's title and author with us! Is there a book you constantly re-read? (does it seem like a new book each time? Reading a book you love with a large gap makes the book feel different, because you are different person in many ways from the last time you read it!) Has your Faith helped you get out of a difficult period in your life?

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FTC Disclosure: This is a NON -compensated post, no monetary compensation has been received. All my opinions are 100% MY OWN. I attended a Press Screening of the movie Captive. There are Amazon Affiliate Links in this post. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

Thursday, July 24, 2014

{Summer Read} Photo Highlights from the @WendyWilliams #HoldMeInContempt #Book Signing #burlingtonootd



































I got several of my summer reads early this year, but haven't had a chance to start on them yet, yes it's been THAT busy. But with the debut of the trailer today of 50 Shades of Grey (which I also haven't read by the way) it made me realize that those hazy days of summer will soon come to an end, and me and this book still haven't had our much needed 'me' time.

About the Book:

Move over 50 Shades, there’s a new romance in town. Television Personality and Author Wendy Williams brings on the heat in her first ever, no-holds-barred, down and dirty, romance novel.

Kimberly Kind is trying to get beyond her roots. A successful, beautiful, smart lawyer, she’s finally finding direction in her life and getting out of the streets. But a terrible accident threatens to throw her carefully laid plans off course. Now Kim’s hiding a huge secret… one that could threaten everything.

Enter King. A perfect mix of Justin Timberlake and David Beckham, the man oozes sex and has more swagger than anyone Kim’s ever met. Their chemistry is off the charts. But after passion-filled nights, the intensity of their emotions takes both of them by surprise.

Love was not supposed to be an option. Now it’s the only thing holding them together. When their pasts come back with a vengeance, can love possibly be enough?

Photo Higlights from The Book Signing:

Sunday, June 15, 2014

Recap of @RobinRoberts Everybody's Got Something Book Signing! #robertsmamarazzi #OWNERS

Everybodys Got Something Book Cover Art Robin Roberts


Ironically the same hospital that saved Robin Roberts nearly killed me, and since then I have been closely following Robin's story - a story of not just recovery, but of victory, strength, grace and amazing personal triumph.

The Moms (Denise Albert and Melissa Musen Gerstein) put together tons of interesting events, but for obvious reasons the #RobertsMamarazzi event (that is the twitter hashtag for the event if you want to follow the thread and see everyone's photos and perspective on the day), was particularly near and dear to my heart. I had wanted to pick up Robin's book "Everybody's Got Something" since it was released. 

I know this is probably the longest I have ever taken to recap an NYC based event, but I knew somehow that re-visiting this event would inevitably bring me back to my own recent health struggles, and I found myself procrastinating because the memories that those days bring back are tough for me to face.

I thought tonight would be the perfect time to share this book with you as Robin Roberts will appear on The Emmy-nominated series "Oprah's Master Class" on OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network tonight, June 15th at 10:00pm ET/PT. Here is a sneak peek Video! (and no butterflies, this is NOT a network plug nor is this a sponsored post, I just happen to be a fan of the show and I am a huge admirer of Robin and thought you'd like to know!)



The Book signing was held at NYY Steak in Manhattan and the restaurant was quite welcoming and offered a wonderful luncheon menu served directly to us so we could focus on our guest of honor! As you can see from the photo above, it was a wonderful menu!

 "As my mother would say: 'Make your mess your message," ~ Robin Roberts


Robin was as warm in person as she has always struck me from watching her on television, and she took the time to answer all questions and personalize a copy of everyone's book, she was exceptionally gracious with her time, and offered tremendous insight into her recent bone marrow transplant, her battle with MDS, and how she juggled her professional and personal journey - and the marriage of the two as her personal journey was shared along the way before the book was ever released.

Regardless of how much money you have, your race, where you live, what religion you follow, you are going through something. Or you already have or you will. As momma always said, “Everybody’s got something.

I am definitely in agreement with the message that Robin shared from her mom, it's so true, we all have our own struggles, and sometimes we forget to look outside our own pain and personal journey to remember that everyone we meet and everyone we touch also has their own struggles!

And you know how much I love being able to help Ascending Butterfly Readers feel like they were there with me when I attend events, so I thought you'd love to see the video, and hear it directly from Robin:



My Take:

Robin's new memoir is raw, powerful and incredibly candid, she has shared her entire journey with everyone, every step of the way and I know firsthand just how difficult that is. Her strength, grace and sense of humor along with an amazing group of supporters and her sister's amazing gift got her through, and this book is inspiration and empowerment personified, I highly recommend it!

And of course me being a foodie and a snack person I just had to share a shot of my Creme Brulee Dessert:



Butterflies, watch Robin tonight on OWN (or DVR it if you are spending the day with your dad) and just remember, EVERYBODY'S GOT SOMETHING!

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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a Sponsored Post, no monetary compensation has been received in exchange for our event recap coverage. We were provided with a copy of the Book and a Gift Bag courtesy of The Moms. All opinions are 100% my own. See our full disclosure policy for any questions.

Saturday, May 10, 2014

Have you seen the 'Bali Collection' from @InBloomLingerie? Want to WIN it for yourself? #lingerie #giveaway

This giveaway is sponsored by:

In Bloom By Jonquil Logo


While most people think everyday in New York City is an endless cocktail party, especially if you are single, some days are less 'Sex and the City' and more full day in my PJ's writing and taking endless conference calls.

Not so sexy.

But that doesn't quite mean it has to be 'grungy' either. I do have to greet the Delivery Carriers and Take Out. 

It's been love at first wear ever since I discovered In Bloom by Jonquil, they have been by far the most comfortable PJ's I've ever worn, and they wash amazingly well. And while my taste tends to lean more toward 'loungewear' sets, they have the most beautiful Bridal lingerie and peignor sets ever!






I don't have copies I can offer you yet Butterflies, but In Bloom is more than great PJ's, it's a BOOK too!  (Press on the banner above to purchase it directly at Amazon at a great price!) I can't wait to read this one on my next flight, you guys know how much I love books, so don't be surprised to see this one as an upcoming Ascending Butterfly Book Club Selection. (Yes I know the feature has been missing in action for awhile, but it is coming back soon!)



In Bloom Gift Card Giveaway Polyvore Set via Ascending Butterfly


















WIN IT:

One Lucky Butterfly has a shot at a $75 Gift Card to In Bloom. Use the Rafflecopter Widget/Link below to enter. As always our 'main entry' is easy peasy, and once you do the main entry you unlock a ton of fun extra credit entries.

a Rafflecopter giveaway


My Take:


This particular set does run a bit small, so order this one in a size up just to be safe. Normally In Bloom styles run true to size for me, this set is the first exception to that rule. As an Aries I love red, so the color and style on this set was a hit for me, and I love the detail on the back of the tank top. 

Hey Butterfly What is YOUR favorite style from In Bloom? (Commenting with your answer to this question gets you an extra credit in the giveaway!)

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FTC Disclosure: In Bloom by Jonquil provided Ascending Butterfly with product for Editorial Consideration, 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. There is an affiliate link in this post.

Tuesday, July 2, 2013

@Ascending1 Monthly #Book Club - July #Giveaway: Enter to #win Pancho Land by @Raul_Ramos



No monetary compensation has been received to host this giveaway, full disclosure below:

Butterflies I apologize for the hiatus, but our book club is back just in time for summer, because this is the season where my best reading gets done! Whether it's in the airport lounge, on the plane or beach/pool side I always bring something along to read. And not to knock the 'e-reader' craze, but I still prefer real books. Hard Cover preferably, but even soft covers still have their appeal. Much like music, I still get excited by holding a new CD in my hand, despite having a portable MP3 Player and various services that I love including iTunes and Spotify. There is just something exciting about holding that book in my hand. Like some love their soaps and shows, that's how I feel about books, I can't wait to see where the author will transport me.

We are stoked to have the Monthly Book Club return with Pancho Land by Raul Ramos Y Sanchez!

The author's name should sound familiar to loyal Ascending Butterfly readers, this book is the third in a trilogy of books, and we reviewed the first book in the series (called America Libre) HERE.

I have to start by assuaging a fear I'm sure most of you share with me, starting with a third book in a popular trilogy, but you don't have to worry about that with this book, it does stand alone if you are starting with this book, but the author also weaves in the back story so well that readers of the entire trilogy won't get bored, but new readers get an understanding of the characters and their back stories.

I don't want to give away any spoilers, but I will say that after reading the end of the trilogy, you are going to be amazed at what happens with the characters. The trilogy centers around a family, a family that experiences incredible blows, incredible lows and incredible highs too. It really is the journey butterflies, not the final destination that matters.

Raul is a skilled writer and you can't help but find yourself invested in the family that is at the center of the books. I can totally see this trilogy becoming a movie! (and like every armchair reader I have strong casting ideas on the roles too!)

While you will see this in the rafflecopter widget below when you enter, I wanted to let readers know that if you "Like" the Class H Trilogy Page on Facebook you will be automatically entered each month in a drawing for a signed and dedicated copy of Pancho Land, America Libre or House Divided! Don't you love having not just one shot at winning but TWO shots at winning? I know I do! Not to mention you can get PDF quick peeks of a chapter in the books as well.

Get Social With It:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - "Like" the Class H Trilogy Page on Facebook
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ -  Follow  on Twitter

Remember you get extra credit in the giveaway for social follows so be sure to get your entries

WIN IT: 

One lucky Ascending Butterfly reader can win a copy as well (and based on availability of course) the author will try his best to provide either a physical copy or an electronic copy, winners choice!

Enter using the Rafflecopter Widget below:

a Rafflecopter giveaway


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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a compensated post, the sponsor is fulfilling to the giveaway winner. All opinions are 100% my own. Neither Ascending Butterfly or our giveaway sponsors will be held responsible for late, lost or mis-directed mail. See our Full Disclosure page for any questions or concerns.

Wednesday, May 15, 2013

Alison Sweeney (@Ali_Sweeney) 'the star attraction' #Book Signing Event @makemeaningUSA cc @GabrielasNYC #thestarattractionmamarazzi

Alison Sweeney at the star attraction book signing event at Make Meaning Store in New York City #thestarattractionmamarazzi
Alison Sweeney at 'the star attraction' book signing event at the Make Meaning Store in New York City




































I have a special (Not Entirely Wordless), Wordless Wednesday Edition this week! I just got back from the City from a super fun book signing and thought I'd share my photos with you!

It's no shocker I'm a Soap Opera Fan (I'm pretty sure the General Hospital Blogger Campaign, and my recent posts on behalf of All My Children and One Life to Live coming back online were a huge tip off), and today I got the chance to attend a Book Signing Event for Alison Sweeney's new book 'the star attraction'.

Alison Sweeney has portrayed the character 'Sami Brady' since she was 16 years old on the NBC hit daytime drama Days of our Lives, and is also the host of NBC's reality series The Biggest Loser. She is also the Author of 'The Mommy Diet' and she has penned another book titled 'the star attraction'.

The new book 'the star attraction' was released yesterday by Hyperion Books, and is about a Hollywood Publicist who scores her PR firm's most important actor client, and after a steamy make out session in a restaurant alley with her big name client, lines start to blur and one woman's daytime soap comes to life.

Sounds 'Tres Steamy' to me and I can't wait to read it! I'm thinking a day at the beach, a pina colada, me and this book have a date soon!

Here are some more pictures from the Book Signing Today:

Left: Denise Albert, Center: Actress/Author Alison Sweeney, Right: Melissa Musen Gerstein, at 'the star attraction' book signing MAMARAZZI event at the Make Meaning Store in New York City



Left: Denise Albert, Center: Actress/Author Alison Sweeney, Right: Melissa Musen Gerstein, at 'the star attraction' book signing MAMARAZZI event at the Make Meaning Store in New York City


Left: Denise Albert, Center: Actress/Author Alison Sweeney, Right: Melissa Musen Gerstein, at 'the star attraction' book signing MAMARAZZI event at the Make Meaning Store in New York City



Left: Denise Albert, Center: Actress/Author Alison Sweeney, Right: Melissa Musen Gerstein, at 'the star attraction' book signing MAMARAZZI event at the Make Meaning Store in New York City



Left: Actress/Author Alison Sweeney, Right: Melissa Musen Gerstein, at 'the star attraction' book signing MAMARAZZI event at the Make Meaning Store in New York City



Left: Actress/Author Alison Sweeney, Right: Melissa Musen Gerstein, at 'the star attraction' book signing MAMARAZZI event at the Make Meaning Store in New York City



Left: Actress/Author Alison Sweeney, Right: Melissa Musen Gerstein, at 'the star attraction' book signing MAMARAZZI event at the Make Meaning Store in New York City



Left: Mama Butterfly, Right: Actress/Author Alison Sweeney, at 'the star attraction' book signing MAMARAZZI event at the Make Meaning Store in New York City



Left: It's ME! Ascending Butterfly, Right: Actress/Author Alison Sweeney, at 'the star attraction' book signing MAMARAZZI event at the Make Meaning Store in New York City


My Take:

The Moms always take the time to really put thought into their events, the lunch was catered by Gabriela's Restaurant in New York City who put out a wonderful spread, and the Make Meaning Store where the event was held is a space in New York City where you can do crafts (and there is even a 'Wine' night, so I definitely need to go back there and create something fun and kick back with a glass of wine!).

In addition to the lunch and book signing where we got to meet Alison, she also answered questions from the audience and spoke about the difficulties of the work/life balance, and how important it is to truly love what you do. When you love what you do and are excited by it, your children will feel that. You do need to be professionally fulfilled, but if it's not at something you love doing it makes staying energetic for them AND for you, that much harder!

Mama Butterfly asked Alison about her weight struggles and how it was handled by the producers of Days of Our Lives, and Alison said that the Producers were always behind her, but she did read negative comments throughout the years, and that brought me right back to the Strong Moms Empowerment Summit and how important it is not just for press (print or digital) but for all moms to be supportive of each other! Alison was super down to earth and it was a pleasure meeting her! As Mama Butterfly is the one who got me hooked on 'Soaps' on my very first sick day from school as a pre-teen, it was only fitting somehow that we attended this event together!

I will post a full review of the book once I have read it (and I'll try to reach out to publisher and see if they'd like to host a giveaway in an upcoming Ascending Butterfly Book Club, hopefully for the summer as this looks like a great summer read!). I will also create a Pinterest Board for this event on Ascending Butterfly's Pinterest Page!

Here is the video from the Questions and Answers Session:

Video credit: Fredy Mfuko, Mission 101 Media

You can nab the book at a great price below:






What are you reading right now Butterfly?


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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a Sponsored Post. No monetary compensation has been received to share our recap coverage of this event. A meet and greet and signed book were provided for editorial consideration, however all opinions are 100% my own! The book banner is an affiliate link.

Thursday, May 2, 2013

Ascending Butterfly May Monthly #Book Club Title: Review and #Giveaway of The Fast Metabolism Diet #FastMetabolismDiet



This is a sponsored post/Giveaway for SheSpeaks/Fast Metabolism Diet (All opinions are my own):

I spent 2010 and 2011 on a series of Lifestyle Changes that resulted in very healthy weight loss overtime. Getting more excercise and recipe substitions had resulted in the loss of 3 dress sizes and way more energy. I was thrilled!

Then 2012 happened. I spent the bulk of the year at three different hospitals for long term stays. Which meant being sick to my stomach and not wanting to eat due to the medications and surgeries, and a ton of time in a hospital bed which meant no excercise. To say last year threw me off my game is an understatement. Considering I was told I may not make it, I have much to be grateful for. Every few months it's back to the hospital for testing and I still can't go back to a full workout routine yet.

With summer coming I want to have tons of energy because after a year in the hospital, I plan to go out everyday and take full advantage of the sun this summer! I knew I needed to find a way to get my metabolism going knowing full well that I can't yet go back to the workout routine I was enjoying in 2010 and 2011 (which included Zumba and Yoga).

I had actually seen the book on TV before I was invited to participate in this campaign and it had caught my eye. The one thing I've learned through the years is that Lifestyle Changes, (no matter what they are for, to break bad habits, learn new ones, incorporate meditation into your day), have to be logical and not too difficult to incorporate to be successful. From what I had seen this looked easy to do, and seemed to make sense for me with my many restrictions.

I am going to be totally honest, I tried this out and didn't follow it to the letter, but it's OK because I knew I probably wouldn't. My schedule is erratic and because of my varied obligations, it's ever changing. Events in NYC come with cocktails, food, appetizers and all kind of things that are not always what I was meant to be eating that day. And worse still meetings all day and events most evenings including weekends leave very little time for much of a workout routine anyway.

The Science behind The Fast Metabolism Diet is explained graphically on their website and it's worth taking a look at so you can get an idea of 'the HOW' behind the diet. As a single girl in the city I didn't have the problem of worrying about other people in the home not liking the meals, it was just me I had to worry about. Is that how I eat everyday? NO. So it was hard to get adjusted to. For me the biggest problem was the cutting back of refined sugars, I love my chocolate and my Ice Cream and I am NOT going to cut them completely out of my life.

I was excited to discover that some of the foods I already love like Lobster, Shrimp, Avocados, Cashews, Seaweed (Sushi anyone?), stimulate the release of fat-burning T4 and T3 hormones which create a thermogenic effect in the body, melting those hard fat stores and allowing them to be liquified by the Thyroid Hormones, burned for energy and released from the body. This burn boosts your metabolism!




I know what you are thinking by now, 'So Butterfly, Did it WORK?'. Yes it did. I did not lose 20 pounds, but I have a firm policy of not gauging my weight loss with the scale, I lost one dress size so far, and I have maintained that size, my underwear/lingerie are all so loose I have to get new stuff in a size down, and I am happy with that progress. I am not following it to the letter, but with the principles it outlines, and with me slowly but surely being able to become progressively more active I am sure I will be back to where I was in 2011 in no time.

We are happy to make this our first title for the return of the Book Club, and with the advent of swimsuit season upon us, I am happy to recommend this program as the kick start to a series of full Lifestyle changes that will help you get ready to put your best face forward this summer!

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FTC Disclosure: This is a Sponsored Post for She Speaks/Fast Metabolism Diet. I received compensation and a complimentary copy of the book, the sponsor is also fulfilling to the giveaway winner. All opinions are 100% my own.