{Your Opinion Counts!} #ontheblog @Tracy_Iglesias of @Ascending1 (Ascending Butterfly Blog) tries @warbyparker #warbyhometryon - help me pick!

My prescription changed in 2021 so it's all - New Year, New Glasses Who Dis?

Since I do not have an iPhone, I was unable to do a virtual try on with Warby Parker, but the next best thing arrived in the mail - a virtual home try on kit!

I selected five frames I liked best (and that is not an easy task as they have a vast selection of colors, styles and fits) and I got a try on kit in the mail with the five frames I selected. I picked three medium fits (which is the size they recommend for most people, especially if you are unsure of your fit), 1 wide and 1 narrow. I tried two that are definitely cat eye inspired (I have never actually worn Cat Eye Glasses before), and was surprised by how much I actually liked them.

The problem is I like all five of them equally for different reasons. I wish I had unlimited budget problems right about now so I could justify keeping all five!

I tried them all on and compiled them into a cute video below:

Please ignore Pajamas, sloppy bed head hair, and bad lighting! (I was so excited to try these on I forgot I was in my PJ's!) I tried to take shots of the glasses with my hair down and then pulled up but that magic lasted for the first two pairs and then the last three was just one look.

Readers Sound Off: Which pair do you think I should select to have my prescription put in and keep? (The video gives you the name of each pair, but you can also tell me the number of the one you liked best as well). Don't forget to also let me know by tagging me on any of my social channels as well.

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FTC Disclosure: A pair of Warby Parker Glasses have been  provided 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.

{#TechThursday} Found out why the @ASUS_ROG is the first product reco in my #AmazonStore #ROG #Technology

NOT SPONSORED OR COMPENSATED

For the past few years me and gadgets, me and appliances and tech haven't had a very good run. You already know I tend to test stuff for MORE than 30 days to make sure it survives until warranty and I am NOT afraid to update a review if a product dies on me before it should.

A little over a year ago my desktop died out on me. I brought it to the well known Geeks and they could NOT fix it, (they of course offered me the option to escalate it to a higher level of support for an additional fee - I declined on that, um nah!)

I lost a ton of photos, I had all my music backed up but ran out of room on my back up drive and ended up losing more photos than I would have liked.

I have stepped up my photography and I thought only a desktop would be able to handle everything I put a system through in a typical day - I am a Life Coach, Social Media Consultant, Freelance Writer, Blogger and I edit A LOT of photos - RAW, hi-resolution photography, usually have a ton of client databases open and very few systems seem to be able to handle what I dish out.

While at the Geeks I decided to start looking over systems - my gut told me they wouldn't be able to fix it, and I was right. I let them know what I put a system through and asked almost off-handedly if a laptop was even an option for me. What did they recommend that could handle such a heavy workload. They recommended three different systems, unfortunately I ruled the HP out because after 2 decades of using them almost exclusively I was replacing them too quickly and my last one just did not last long enough to justify trusting them with my hard earned cash again.

So that left us down to two.

I took a shot of both spec sheets on my phone, and while I was in the store I toyed around with both machines. When I got home I immediately got on social and polled my tribe: friends, family and colleagues and read pretty much every consumer review from a ton of online sources and narrowed my decision down.

When I got the final call saying my HP Desktop could not be fixed, I went to the store to pick it up and left with one of the recommended laptops the Asus ROG G752VL-DH71.

I will admit I put a three year extended warranty on this little puppy. And vowed that if it survived me for a year and I was just as happy with it as the day I bought it I would share about it.

I am already an Amazon Affiliate, but I also recently got approved for their influencer program, where you can build a store with your custom recos to share with your online tribe via social media. I LOVED this idea.

And because this laptop really has been able to dish out anything I have thrown at it, I thought I would make it the first item in my 'online influencer amazon store'.

You will obviously want the NEWER model which is the G752VS which I am linking you directly to it.

I can whole-heartedly recommend the ASUS ROG (ROG = Republic of Gamers) - this is a 'gaming rig' and so far it has been able to dish out everything I have thrown at it.

PROS:

I operate two different browsers with an average of 30 tabs on EACH of the browsers, several client databases, and I also do a ton of RAW photo editing SIMULTANEOUSLY. This system does NOT hiccup or cough.

I know this is probably the most off handed and weird thing a reviewer might mention in a tech review, but out of all three laptops I played with, I LOVE the keyboard, it just helps me types faster, and I already type pretty fast, I test out at 90 WPM with 0 errors. and it of course has backlight so when my nightly insomnia hits and I decide to write, the keyboard being lit means I do not have to put on the light or break my flow and train of thought.

Cons:

This bad boy is HEAVY. I want something lighter for Press Trips.

And for some reason this is an issue across brands for me, but it does not wake up well from 'sleep mode' but in all fairness it is probably because I had a million things open and I should just shut down more and let it update.

What computer are you currently using? Desktop or Laptop? If you love yours, feel free to drop the model name in your comment, I prefer 'real reviews' and your reco might help someone who is narrowing down choices before they get ready to buy.

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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*.

#ad Objet d'art or cool new #tech toy? I first spotted the @NortonOnline Norton Core™ Secure High Performance Wi-Fi Router at #PPE2017 then @BestBuy Claus delivered one right to me!

♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ As part of the Best Buy Blogger program I have been compensated in the form of a Best Buy Gift Card and have received Product for Editorial Consideration ♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ 

I got to attend PDN PhotoPlus Expo this year in New York City, and one of the most unique non-photography items I saw at the show could easily pass for an Objet d' art!

The booth was fun, you went to each demo station and when they completed the product demo you collected a raffle ticket, the more product demos you experienced the more raffle tickets, this was the product that stood out most from their booth and I garnered as many raffle tickets as I could trying to enter to win it.

While I was not a lucky winner, not shortly after this came up as a blog campaign and I jumped at the chance! The PDN PhotoPlus Expo is tough to recap in one post as there was so much to see and do, so I will try to bring you pieces of what I saw there a bit more organically and try not to overwhelm you guys with a post that would take an hour to read/digest.

What is multi operating system friendly, poses as BOTH a Router and Security Program for not only your home devices but while on the go too?

THIS GUY:

Above: It blends so well into my modern zen home decor that I took a shot of it with my favorite scent warmer, without the box there telling you what it is, it literally would just blend into the background with my current decor. Oddly enough my living room walls are painted grey right now, so the Graphite Grey Color on this unit really does blend into my living room perfectly! Tech can be both functional AND fashionable.

If someone special in your life is getting a new computer, there are certain things you know you need for it, a security/protection software package and a router, so why not get them BOTH in one box?

Above: Another shot sans my scent warmer! I actually have mine situated right next to my smart TV as my TV goes online to update itself and it's apps often!

BENEFITS!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - EASE OF SET-UP - Bluetooth-enabled iOS/Android device with a mobile data plan is needed. Download the Norton Core app to complete set up. Modem required.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - SECURE + HIGH PEFORMANCE - Wi-Fi router helps protect your connected devices on your home network by stopping cyber-attacks at the network level you can stream your favorite movies in 4K, play online games or download content with Core’s powerful dual-core processor. With comprehensive network security to protect your connected home from malware, viruses, phishing tactics and even botnets. Norton Core supports speeds up to 2.5 Gbps* — ensuring fast 4K streaming and lag-free gaming (perfect since I switched from a Desktop to a Laptop Gaming Rig, review of my Gaming Rig coming soon, it was purchased by me at Best Buy, not gifted, although I wish it were!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - PROTECTS ALL CONNECTED DEVICE -  One year subscription to Norton Core Security Plus* is included to protect your Macs, PCs, tablets, smartphones & smart devices. (after the one year is over you pay $9.99 per month)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Bandwidth Optimization - Does one device need a bit more juice than the other? You can give priority to any device in the house with a touch of a button! Downloading music or movies? Give that device the extra bandwidth so the downloads go faster. When you turn in at night, give it to the devices you are leaving running updates or to your smart TV. This by far has to be one of my favorite features!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - SMART PARENTAL CONTROLS - Manage screen time by setting content filters or daily limits on usage. And when needed, pause the Internet. Not a feature I need as there are no baby butterflies here, but it is great to know it's there! The ability to pause the network entirely will leave you drunk with power!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - SECURITY SCORE- Butterflies your credit isn't the only thing with a score, your network and home security gets one too with Norton Core, but it doesn't just score your security, it offers insight and tools to help improve your score. Your devices and smart home can now breathe a sigh of relief!

MY TAKE:

Norton has always been a reliable security product for me, and now with the added functionality of a 'two-in-one' where I get both a router and security in a package that is sleek, modern and actually quite pretty to look at, what's not to love?

I have always loved that Norton protects my devices at home and on the go and it is the brand of security software I regularly use, even paying for it over the free security software that comes with my Cable! I had a different security program for the past few months because I recently changed from a desktop to a gaming rig laptop and that came with it's own protection built in, but while I have no complaints about the security software that came with my gaming rig (which I did purchase at Best Buy, again with MY money, not gift cards or sponsored), I will say I am very happy to be back with Norton Again! I find Norton easy to use, it's great about updating itself and playing nice with my operating system too! It pretty much takes care of itself and my network so I can worry about other things! (Like Photo Editing, Traveling, Writing, Blogging, Life Coaching, Social Media Consulting, and attending fantastic events and tradeshows in NYC).

I have been making it a point to keep you guys updated over time how products perform like the earbuds I reviewed that literally kept dying at the one year mark (Remember I'm already 8 years into blogging here at Ascending Butterfly), I like to check out my monthly reports with a security software, so I would like to tell you guys how my score changes over time with this one which I hope will provide you with an idea of how well the product performs over time. This butterfly is always thorough!

Spill Butterflies: How old is your current router? What Security Program/Software do you use? What is your current brand of router? Are you happy with it? Have you experienced dead zones for devices in your own home?

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FTC Disclosure: I am part of Best Buy's Blogging Program and I received product at NO cost to me for Editorial Consideration and I also received a gift card, however 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*.

Our #WomenEntrepreneurWednesday #NYNow Spotlight is back with a Flash #Giveaway from @elementstruffle #Spon

 Giveaway Sponsored by Elements Truffles

This summer I met so many inspiring women at the NYNOW Tradeshow (The Market for Home, Lifestyle and Gifts), that instead of lumping my recap of the show into one big post where you might only get a one or two sentence recap, I wanted to give each woman entrepreneur and their amazing brands their own individual day in the sun.

While the first Woman Entrepreneur/Woman Crush Wednesday was not from NYNOW but from a different event entirely (if you missed it I featured Emaurade Toubia from the show Shadowhunters who moderated a great panel on Latina Beauty HERE), I wanted to devote some dedicated time to featuring women who are pursuing their passions and following their dreams.

One of the brands that stood out was Elements Truffles and it's Founder, Alak Vasa who I got a chance to meet in person during NYNOW.

About the Founder:

One of the things that stood out most about Alak Vasa, founder of Elements Truffles is that she was a Wall Street Trader. I worked in Finance for quite awhile during College and I remember working on the Trading Floor for quite a number of Financial Firms and remember first hand just how incredibly stressful the environment is.

Good chocolate is one of the things that kept Alak going and also planted a seed of inspiration. Combining her culinary experiments with her spirituality and the ancient life science of Ayurveda, Alak turned her passion for chocolate and how the five elements - earth, water, fire, air and ether - into an artisanal dessert.

Oddly enough when I worked in Finance we had a great truffle store located inside our building, except those truffles were popular for their 'spirits' not just their spirit! If you know what I mean! Wink! Wink!


About Elements Truffles They contain NO:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - GMO
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Soy or other Emulsifiers
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Preservatives
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Synthetic Flavors
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Gluten
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Cane Sugars
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Refined Sugars
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Dairy

You read it right, Dairy Free and Gluten Free Chocolate and trust me you wouldn't be able to tell by the flavor that these are Dairy Free!

Ingredient Sourcing:

Their ingredients including Cacao made from fine quality Criollo beans from Peru and honey extracted ethically from local honey bees in New Jersey are all from Fair Trade Manufacturers that align with Element Truffles philosophies (high quality with low environmental impact).

Social Stewardship:

Not only do 25% of the profits go towards supporting the education of under-privileged children in tribal areas of India, (their charity partner is www.careforchildren.org) each member of The Elements Truffles team invests at least five hours of their time each week giving back to the community.

I loved them all, but these were my top two flavors in no particular order:

Above: Peppermint infused with Lavender - Elements Truffles Ayurveda Inspired Artisanal Chocolate Bar

Above: Raspberry infused with beetroot - Elements Truffles Ayurveda Inspired Artisanal Chocolate Bar

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WIN IT + MY TAKE:

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24 Count Assorted Elements Truffles - Photo Used With Permission

What I can't stress highly enough is just how delicious Elements Truffles are! It's rare that people rave that something good for you, tastes good too. That's what amazes me most, they hide all this healthy stuff inside their chocolate, yet it tastes better than most I have tried to date. At this point in my blogging career the highest praise I can give something that helps you understand my sincerity is to tell you I plan to buy these on regular rotation so I can have them at hand, and that is saying A LOT!

Our friends at Elements Truffles want you to experience their artisanal chocolate first hand so we have teamed up to give away a 24 count box of their assorted truffles!

Can't wait to see if you've won, or have a chocolate craving and must get some NOW, now NOW!? I can't say I blame you, shop them here:  Shop Elements Truffles

Follow the instructions in the Gleam widget below so you can be in it to win it (we are switching from Rafflecopter to Gleam this time around, please let us know if you experience any glitches so we know going forward if we should stick with Gleam and consider going Pro or go back to rafflecopter - we are letting you decide!)

Elements Truffles 24 Count Box of Assorted Truffles

I have tried a larger number of 'healthy chocolate' brands than you know dear butterflies. The reason you don't know is because they don't all make these pages. The last time I was this jazzed about a chocolate that could honestly call itself "healthy" was unreal which I featured HERE if you missed it.

READERS SOUND OFF: Visit Elements Truffles and tell us which of their flavors you are most excited to try (by the way that is the mandatory entry for this contest, so don't forget to tell us in the Gleam Widget what name you commented under so you can get your entry!)

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FTC Disclosure: This is a sponsored post sponsored by Elements Truffles, all opinions are 100% my own! They are sponsoring the prize, however this post is NOT compensated! 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.

Buy your #Smartphone, #Tablet or #ebook reader a @FlyGrip - Trust me, You NEED this!

Remember when I told you that the Get Geeked Tech Conference in New York City introduced me to a ton of cool new stuff? If you forgot what or didn't get to read about the conference when I first posted about it, check it out HERE!

One of the coolest products I got to lay my hands on at the conference wasn't even the most expensive, and while I thought it was a neat idea during the demo, it wasn't until I lived with it and played with it daily that I got to understand just how invaluable the FlyGrip really is! It really is one of those things that make you wish you thought of it first! It helps you use your favorite smart device easier AND better.

Left: LG G2 Phone Cover, Center: LG G2 Smartphone for Verizon, Right: FlyGrip

Benefits of utilizing a FlyGrip:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Ergonomically designed to allow you to grip your device safely with ONE hand (i.e, this will help prevent you from dropping your phone!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Allows you to multi-task easier

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Engineered to double as a kickstand in both portrait and landscape

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - For those of you that love taking Selfies or using instagram and vine, this will make it so much easier to do so

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - For those who for a variety of reasons experience weakness in their dominant hand and have had trouble using phones because of it (MS, severe carpal tunnel syndrome) , a FlyGrip will allow you the use of your smart device with so much more ease

FlyGrip in Action:

LG G2 for Verizon Cell Phone shown in cell phone cover with FlyGrip device installed directly on the smartphone cover

I am holding my smartphone upside down with fingers inserted in the FlyGrip which allows me a free hand!

FlyGrip featured on TastyTrade Financial Network:



My Take:

I got the chance to try out quite a few devices this year from cellphones to tablets, once I decided that I was sticking with my LG G2 for awhile, I wanted to invest in accessories that would help me protect it, but the fact that the FlyGrip not only protects my device, but makes using it easier and much more fun and comes in a range of colors and styles to match my mood and express my personality is a great bonus! And by the way they do offer butterflies, but I couldn't resist the animal print against the chic black cellphone cover! I can tell you that after you use it, you will want one for ALL of your smart devices!

This is the perfect holiday gift for everyone on your list! Let's face it, who on your list doesn't have a smart device of some kind? And as a former Special Ed Teacher, I can tell you I would rather have this than an Apple! This is a gift idea that won't break the bank, and that the recipient will always think of you daily with love! If you are giving someone a smart device for the holidays, pick up a case and FlyGrip to go with it as the stocking stuffer!

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FTC Disclosure: I was provided with a FlyGrip and Cellphone case 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 visit our full giveaway and disclosure page for complete policy information.

This @BestBuyWOLF shares the 'skinny' on the @Philips Viva Collection Air fryer! #PhilipsatBestBuy

The one motto I have always held about Beauty is that it comes from within. What you put in your body is as important as what you put on your body! Every single small step you can take to lead a healthier lifestyle will pay great dividends.

However, me giving up fried foods completely is probably near impossible, but I may just be one step closer to make my favorite fried foods just a little bit 'better' for me.

Press on the image above to purchase the Philips - Viva Collection Airfryer Low-Fat Multicooker at Best Buy

ABOUT:

The Philips Air Fryer utilizes Rapid Air Technology to allow you to fry, bake, roast and grill with a tablespoon or less of oil, allowing you to eat healthier without giving up the taste and texture of your favorite foods!

PROS:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Automatic Shut-off

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Cord Storage - Cord Hides Away!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Non-Slip Feet

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Ready Signal

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ -  Patented Rapid Air Technology

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Digital Touch Screen Interface

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Restaurant quality fries and onion rings without an oily mess or smelly kitchen! SCORE!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Easy to use, load the basket and turn it on!

CONS:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - At 15.4 pounds, this is a bulky/heavy appliance that makes sense if you have dedicated counter space for it. I am an apartment dweller and won't be leaving it out everyday so storing it is an issue when space is at already a premium in my super small kitchen. (If you have a larger kitchen, this con certainly wouldn't apply to you)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - This is not an accelerated cooking device, it cuts the time to cook most favorites, but if you have a larger family or are cooking for a party you'll need to cook in batches.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Temperature Dial is a bit tricky as it is divided by odd numbers, it has hash marks for 360 degrees, 390 degrees (etc) as opposed to the 325, 350, 400 marks that most ovens have. A Digital Temperature Setting probably would have made more sense.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - No timer built it, while it does 'ding' when the food is done, some items need to be 'shook' at the halfway mark in the cooking process.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Chicken skin can stick to it making it hard to clean, a bit of pam should help and I have read other reviews saying to line it in aluminum foil on the bottom like a regular pan, but I haven't tried that yet. I also find Chicken took a bit more time to cook than the manual advised, but that could be because of the amount of pieces I used. Like anything there is an adjustment period to get the timing just right.

INSIDER TIPS:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - If you start to notice a build up of grease around the fan, you can put 3 cups of water in the bottom and then heat the unit to approximately 390 degrees for about 20 minutes. That will heat the fresh grease around the fan and then it will just drip into the heated water for easy clean up!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - While it does have 'non-slip' feet, it should be used on heat resistant surfaces. Do not set it directly on high gloss granite.

MY TAKE:

As a single gal with no kiddos this unit is definitely handy for me, as I rarely cook in large batches anyway! I like having cheese fries on demand! (Take that certain favorite fast food joint that sells cheese fries, I don't need you anymore!!!) You guys also know I am obsessed with SeaPak Spring Rolls and those Spring Rolls and this Air Fryer are certainly a match made in heaven!

I will say that finding dedicated counter space is a challenge so I'll have to store it and lug it out when I need it.

I'd say this unit gets four out of five butterflies from me with only minor 'wish list' items to have given it a total perfect score like a bigger basket, digital temp settings, a non-stick base would have been great, and a built in timer.

For those of you shopping for gifts for a College Student this holiday season or a special guy in your life, the Philips Air Fryer at Best Buy is definitely a winner as a gift idea! (And if this encourages your guy to cook indoors in the Winter after the Grill season is over, then it's a win/win all around in my opinion!)

What recipe would you make first with the Philips Air Fryer Butterfly?

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FTC Disclosure: Affiliate links are used (so please shop away!). I was provided with a Philips Air Fryer by Best Buy to facilitate my review. All opinions are expressly 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 visit our full giveaway and disclosure page for complete policy information.

Take it from #TheOfficialTwitterPartyDJ your music is only as good as your audio player! Try the @DenonAmerica #DenonHEOS

Press on the Image Above to Purchase the Denon HEOS 5 directly via Best Buy

Has your phone or Smart Device replaced your home theater system? C'mon Butterfly be honest, when is the last time you actually listened to an actual CD? I personally can't even remember, but I do know your music is only as good as the device that you use to play it on!

Our friends at Best Buy want you to love the way you listen and even though Audio Fest is coming to an end you can count on Best Buy to offer you quality Audio at great prices year round!  Single girl apartment living means small spaces, but that doesn't mean that I don't want the best quality in Audio available to me.

Let's just say my 'home office' moves with me from room to room and my music is spread out on multiple devices, I don't have room for a big old receiver and a million components, so for me portability and strong sound are not just key, they are both a *must*.

I will spare you my DUH moment with setting it up that actually resulted in me needing a glass of wine (perhaps setting it up while you are cooking is not the best idea), and instead I'll give you device deets:

ABOUT

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - APP: Your Smart Device becomes your remote with the FREE HEOS App

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Multi-Room Capable: Hook this speaker to your home network and stream music in one room while your actual playlist can reside anywhere!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Your Tunes, Your Way: Stream from your favorite music service including Spotify (my personal fave), Deezer, Tunein, Napster, Pandora, Rhapsody - stream music stored on your IOS or Android Smartphone or Tablet. A USB Jack and Auxiliary Input Jack on the back of the unit allow for easy setup. You can also stream tunes from your NAS Drive or Computer! (There is an ethernet Jack as well if you want to go 'old school' and be all wired and stuff.) Supports MP3, WMA, AAC, MPEG4, FLAC and WAV files.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Buy based on room size: HEOS 5 is ideal for medium to large rooms, The HEOS 3 for smaller rooms and The HEOS 7 is ideal for large spaces.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Bass and Treble Control - Now if you need to give it a little more cowbell, I leave that up to you, LOL

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Class D Digital Amplification: With 4 channels of Class D Digital amplification the HEOS 5 offers high efficiency, low distortion and wide dynamic range. It offers a 5 Driver Speaker System, 2 precision tweeters, 2 mid-woofers, plus 1 passive radiator which provides additional base augmentation.

See and hear it in action:

MY TAKE:

The HEOS 5 truly offers amazing sound, and that my butterflies is priceless. I do have a few nit picky cons that keep it from a full 5 star rating from me, I'm a bit spoiled with my portable speakers, to date, all of them have had a remote control, since I'm jacking in the device where I keep my music/spotify not having a remote is a bit annoying as my phone is jacked into the HEOS speaker, and it also does not charge the phone while playing which is something I've grow accustomed to with my previous dock style portable speakers. I guess since you download the app, the device is technically the remote, but the jack is not very long so if you have it setup far from your desk and want to skip a track that can get a bit annoying.

I wish it were truly wireless, it has a pretty big charger cable that you plug into the wall, a bluetooth truly wireless option would have made this one absolute perfection for me.

Denon partnered with the experts at Waves Audio to embed very sophisticated DSP sound enhancement software and audiophile level synchronization into this little beauty and the labor of love does pay off, it's sound is very rich and with the app pushing new updates and upgrades to the device it's a breeze to maintain and it won't become obsolete anytime soon. It's definitely a 'sound' investment (no pun intended) whether you are looking to replace outdated Audio equipment or just want to stream your existing music to another room, you can't go wrong with the Denon HEOS.

What is your favorite portable speaker Butterfly?

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FTC Disclosure: This is a Sponsored Post in conjunction with Best Buy, I am a Best Buy Brand Ambassador and WOLF Blogger. A Denon HEOS 5 review unit was sent to Ascending Butterfly for Editorial Consideration and Affiliate Links are used in this post 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.

{Spring Cleaning}: Get your house @BISSELLclean by TOSSING your mop and broom! @BestBuy #BissellatBestBuy

I absolutely hate taking care of floors, first the sweeping, followed by lugging a heavy pail and mop around, are so NOT my idea of fun. My flooring is inconsistent (which of course doesn't help matters), some is hardwood (un-treated hardwood to boot so sometimes it eats the broom straw and the mop fibers), some laminate and some tile, making it a monotonous and time-consuming undertaking.

I'm all for saving both time and money, and finding a product that helps me to do both is the closest to 'cleaning nirvana' there is! and some additional research on where to buy the product can also yield some extra and unexpected benefits!

About BISSELL Symphony All in One Vacuum and Steam Mop:

What's in the Box? When you purchase it at Best Buy here is what you can expect:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 1 Symphony All in One Vacuum and Steam Mop

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 4 Microfiber Mop Pads (2 soft, 2 Scrubby) - the pads utilize Microban antimicrobial Protection to help you fight odor-causing bacteria

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 1 Water Filter

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 1 Water Cup

Product Features:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Easily clean your floors (including hardwood!) with the only product to vacuum AND steam at the same time in one easy motion

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Allows you to skip using harsh chemicals (perfect for those with severe allergies, sensitivities and Ashthma) because you use just water to eliminate 99.9% of germs and bacteria - clean and sanitize naturally!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Easy to use: With Easy Touch Digital Controls, 5-way adjustable handle and a Quick-Release Mop Pad Tray, you'll literally power through your Spring Cleaning in no time!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Dry Tank Technology keeps your tank dry while you steam

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 2 year limited warranty

{Discount Alert} Purchase the BISSELL - Symphony Bagless 2-in-1 Upright Vacuum/Steam Mop by pressing on the image above! And if you use the online code BISSELLSYMPHONY you will receive a FREE pack of mop pads! (This code is only valid online as the microfiber mop pads are NOT sold in Best Buy Retail Stores!)

MY TAKE:

I LOVE not having to use extra chemicals to get my floor clean, and in this case, not just clean - but clean AND Sanitized! The microfiber pads can be removed and tossed into the washing machine, so you not just save time with it allowing you to vacuum and mop at the same time, but you also save money on not having to run out and buy replacement pads so often (not to mention not having to buy additional chemical cleaners!) - you save both time, AND Money! What's not to love about that?

Are you ready to ditch your mop and broom butterfly? How is your Spring Cleaning Coming Along?


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FTC Disclosure: This is a Sponsored Post. This post also contains affiliate links. 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 was selected for this opportunity as a member of the Best Buy Ambassador Blogging Program, all opinions expressed here are all my own.

If the Polar Vortex still hasn't let up where you are or you are ski slope bound - check out these @muk_luks boots!

Apparently Mother Nature and Old Man Winter have teamed up to keep my City in a Vice Grip of Cold Weather! I was seriously tempted to make a quick recording of the howling winds outside my window right now to give you the soundtrack I listen to all day unless I put my headphones on!

While my mind is on warm Sandy Beaches and Tropical Trade Winds, the slap of cold air when I head out the door brings me right back to reality pretty quickly.

I have been living in these boots during the winter and I thought I'd share them with you!

Gwen Tribal Motif Boots by The Original Muk Luks Company

The 'Gwen Tribal Motif' Boots' by The Original Muk Luks Company:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Style: Cold Weather

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Height: Knee High

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Toe Shape: Round

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Platform Height: 0.5-inch

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Shaft Height: 12.5 inches

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Circumference: 7.75 inches

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Width: Medium (they are really generous for a Medium!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Lining: Fully Lined

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Sole: Water-proof Rubber Sole

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Footbed: Slightly Padded

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Upper/outsole: 100% Suede Leather with acrylic knit and polyester faux fur (so no guilt to all my animal loving butterflies out there!)

My Take:

These have been hit hard by me all winter with the back to back snowstorms and have held up really well for me in places where most boots fail me, these did not turn ugly on me with salt stains and that was a pleasant surprise for me. Usually my winter boots get salt stains no matter how fastidious I may be in trying to wipe them down as soon as I get home. These keep my feet super warm and dry and I also love that they are not too flat, boots that are too flat tend to make me 'duck walk' and these didn't do that. I also prefer a round toe to pointy, and while I normally go wide on something like boots that I know I will hit hard often here, these are actually a very generous Medium and I didn't feel I needed or missed the wide at all. You really can't go wrong with these! They are comfy, fashion forward and really will keep your feet protected in winter, so if the Polar Vortex won't let up or you are headed to the slopes, you definitely want to pick up a pair of these! (BTW, they also have these in a Brown/Red/White Multi called 'Gwen X FairIsle' that are super cute too!)

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

FTC Disclosure: The Original Muk Luks Company provided us with the Gwen Tribal Motif Boots for editorial consideration. 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. All opinions are 100% my own!