Where #Art #Photography #Foodie Fun and #Fragrance Collided, a #SCENTsational #SniffaVoluptuary @maisonten

Sniffapalooza Presents Voluptuary: An Afternoon of Sensual Pairings at MAISON 10 in New York City

I had to immediately open the email, based on the name of the event alone. When you receive an event invite with this title, the curiosity factor alone makes you open the email and entices you to RSVP for it.

Sniffapalooza celebrates perfumery as an art, and they love to create unique experiential events where the olfactive universe is explored with kindred spirits, combining fragrance with other sensorial pursuits. This event was an interactive multi-sensory journey, an evening of sensual delights... fragrant, culinary, artistic and cinematic pairings... created for the voluptuary in us all!

THE SPACE:

The event was a "meeting of sensory minds" held at MAISON 10, NYC's stunning new concept store and gallery space in the heart of Manhattan's exciting NoMad district and was the brainchild of Stephen Dirkes, a Perfumer, filmmaker, multi-media artist, founder of  EUPHORIUM BROOKLYN an innovative niche perfume brand. To celebrate Euphorium's latest fragrance creation, the Voluptuary Trio Set, Dirkes collaborated with Chef Tessa Liebman and Photographer Tal Shpantzer to reinterpret and pair the fragrances in edible and visual format. And quite frankly I have never attended a Fragrance Event that interpreted Scent in quite this way before.

THE SCENT:

The Voluptuary fragrances -  Suédois, Pétales and Chocolatl - were designed with a focus on sensual, decadent and romantic aspects. The intricately layered relationship of fragrance, flavor and imagery in the stories behind the collection came together to find perfect expression in this event.

THE VISUALS: PHOTOGRAPH SERIES

The fragrance Pétales was inspired by Tal Shpantzer's series of photographic portraits, The Petal Series, which Stephen Dirkes brings to life as a perfume. The Petal Series was on view at the event. The photo above is one of the photographs in the series - and that oversized Gorilla Statue is certainly a unique backdrop!

THE EATS: INTERPRETING FRAGRANCE THROUGH FOOD

Chef Tessa and CHOCOLATL

For Chef Tessa's interpretation of CHOCOLATL  she conjured up a Mexican chocolate meringue base with red wine and Piloncillo stewed prunes with a creme fraiche. It was a rich and decadent treat that totally nailed an edible interpretation of the fragrance!

Chef Tessa's challenge was to create an edible that mirrored the notes of Petales, orange blossom, black pepper, honey, ambergris, indole, and galbanum and her creation, the elegant Pavlova pastry was her edible answer!  I loved catching Photographer Tal Shpantzer taking a selfie with Chef Tessa!

The pastry combines grapefruit curd and orange flower water which Chef Tessa dusted with rose petal powder and mixed with rose pink edible glitter to give the effect of petals shimmering in the moonlight which is part of the story of the fragrance.

Close Up of Petales Pavlova Pastry

I wasn't fast enough to nab a shot of the edible interpretation of SUEDOIS (suede) which is a soft leather scent that is part of the trio. The fragrance has notes of  Indonesian sandalwood (you guys know just how much I am drawn to Sandalwood!), raspberry, raisin, labdanum, vanilla cream, and tonka musk which paired perfectly with Chef Tessa’s Suedois Cream Puffs with a Ylang Ylang Profiterole Shell and Tonka Bean and Sandalwood Bavarian Cream, and Raspberries. I love the smell of Leather and Suede so this scent was definitely an appealing one for me.



Stephen introduced a special sneak peek screening of Voluptuary #535, the short film he created in collaboration with Tal which will be premiered at La Jolla International Fashion Film Festival 2017.

Above: From Left to Right: Far Left: Stephen Dirkes, Perfumer, filmmaker, multi-media artist, and the founder of Euphorium Brooklyn, Photographer Tal Shpantzer, Karen Dubin, Sniffapalooza and Far Right: Chef Tessa Liebman

Another Spotlight Scent:

Be Careful What You Wish For 4160 Tuesdays London

I don't want to steal the limelight from Petales, but another scent I was introduced to at the event stayed in my head called "Be Careful What You Wish For" by 4160 Tuesdays a fruity oud that you won't soon forget and I now need in my life!

A Little Lifestyle:

There were a variety of Lifestyle Products on display including these handbags!

A few 'Adult Themed' items were on display as well.

You know I love Zen art/décor accents and the Thompson Ferrier Buddah Candle stopped me in my tracks! WANT IT!!!

Above: From Left to Right: Far Left: Chef Tessa Liebman, Photographer Tal Shpantzer, Stephen Dirkes, Karen Dubin, Sniffapalooza, and Henri Myers and Far Right: Tom Blackie who are the Founders of Maison 10

From a photographic standpoint I love snapping a group shot when the group is looking at a different photographer, for some reason I have always loved doing this - so it's posed and not posed at the same time.

The Gallery:

Here are TEN things about Maison Ten:

01. is an exciting new concept store and gallery space
02. showcases 10 carefully curated items across 10 categories
03. donates 10% of every sale to one of 10 different charities decided upon by the customer
04. features bags, books, candles, fragrances, gifts, homewares, jewelry, men's accessories, and well-being products
05. has a 10th themed category which it rotates every 10 weeks
06. exhibits 10 works of art for each 10 week period
07. changes everything apart from one top-seller in each category every 10 weeks
08. celebrates its new artist, designers and range of products every 10 weeks with a great event
09. is also online at www.maison10.com
10. LOVES YOU! :)

Above: Some of the guests in attendance pinched hit and rotated as "Guest Bartenders" this is Angus of The Container Globe as guest bartender pouring The Domaine Carneros Brut Rosé Cuvée de la Pompadour.  I borrowed this from Wine.com, but I just had to include it:

"The Domaine Carneros Brut Rosé Cuvée de la Pompadour, celebrates the life and times of Madame de Pompadour (the great courtesan and mistress of Louis XV) who is credited with introducing Champagne to the court and was an influential tastemaker in the matters of art, architecture and philosophy–famous for her comment,

"Champagne is the only wine a woman can drink and remain beautiful.""

MY TAKE:

This event was so "New York" to me in a good way. It was almost too hip for it's own good, I love the sensory interpretation and back story to the Voluptuary Trio by Euphorium Brooklyn. It was a treat for the senses combining sight, sound, scent, and amazing edibles.

Another Fragrance from Euphorium Brooklyn that stood out for me was CILICE, it is not part of the Voluptuary Trio, but notable none the less.

Other Sniffapalooza Events we have featured on Ascending Butterfly:

http://www.ascendingbutterfly.com/2015/07/the-cosmoproflv-beauty-b2b-trade-show.html

http://www.ascendingbutterfly.com/2013/12/sniffapalooza-moltonbrownusa-in.html

Keep up with upcoming Sniffapalooza Events HERE

Happy Sniffing Butterflies!

Readers Sound Off: What are YOUR favorite fragrance notes? What type of scent appeals to you most? Do you stick to the same fragrances or are you always trying something new?

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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a compensated post, press access was granted for Editorial Consideration. 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 see our  Disclosure Page for additional information.

Things that lure Ascending Butterfly out of her butterfly cocoon of fabulosity: Electronics/Technology (yes I am a Gadget Geek first!), Fashion, Jewelry, Bubbly/Spirits, Foodie/Restaurants, Photography and Travel. And remember Ascending Butterfly does NOT have children, please do not pitch her toys (at least not those that are intended for children).

Unless it's charity related, If a campaign doesn't pay, this butterfly won't want to play.

Smile if you got this far, twirl around twice and sing Mariah Carey's Butterfly. Still here? Now go make someone happy today.

How Well Do You #KnowYourYogurt ?

AD: This compensated post is sponsored by The Dannon Company, Inc. and Mamavation Network. All opinions are my own.

GMO-Free Yogurt - From 'Farm-to-Cup'

Learn about the Dannon Pledge: http://www.dannonpledge.com/. And get to #KnowYourYogurt

How well do you know your Yogurt?

Is there a checklist you can use when trying to figure out what Yogurt to buy?

In fact there is, look for a Yogurt that:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - offers Non-GMO Ingredients

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Non-GMO fed Animals

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - engages in Proper Animal Welfare in the production of its food (Dannon works with Dairy Farms that operate under the Validus Certification System)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - and engages in farm-to-table relationships where the farmer is at the center of the process

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - and for my fellow tech inclined friends look for a whole lot of 'WYSIWYG' on the label (What You See Is What You Get - look for the label that reads 'NON GMO Ingredients")

Dannon's Pledge to reinvent the dairy process was featured on the Mamavation website and I highly encourage you to take the pledge yourself at: http://www.dannonpledge.com/

Dannon is launching a multi-year plan to change how they make their Yogurt to give you more choices about your food. The first Dannon Products that were NON-GMO hit the market July 2016. All products offered transparent labeling by the end of 2016 and they are including more natural and non-synthethic ingredients in their flagship brands and are partnering directly with Dairy Farmers. They are also strongly committed to improving sustainable agricultural practices to aim for better soil health, water quality and quantity and a decreased carbon emission and energy use. Brands that respect Biodiversity are important, there is but so damage we can keep doing to this planet and still sustain a quality of life.

MY TAKE:

Oddly there are two dairy delights that I never ate as a child or teen and didn't discover the joy of until quite recently, cheesecake and yogurt. My parents really didn't enjoy either one so it was never really around and I never thought much of it.

My first associations with Yogurt were doing my cubicle days, I would hear co-workers going into tirades over who stole their yogurt from the fridge. I was never looked at as I never ate the stuff. Most office parties offered one of two cakes where I worked, cheesecake or carrot cake, and since I didn't eat either I would tend to avoid the office memo about cake in the break room.

Oddly, now that my cube days are far behind me, I find myself loving both Yogurt and Cheesecake. In fact I did a series of recipes one summer that included Yogurt Substitutions for Favorite Comfort Food Recipes (you guys really responded to it so I may need to do a few more this summer), plus an iconic NYC landmark that launched a farm-to-table dinner series, and Yogurt even made its sneaky way into my smoothies. I even attended a Philharmonic event that was sponsored by a Yogurt Brand. My blogging journey has certainly never been dull.

Farm-to-Table is important to me and when a Yogurt brand like Dannon can provide me with a 'Farm-to-Cup' experience even better. Since I am using Yogurt as a substitute for recipes that call for more fatty ingredients, it makes the decision TWICE as sweet for me knowing that I am selecting a Yogurt that is NON-GMO and that uses Natural Ingredients.

I can't think of a better way to take something healthy and make it that much better - but thankfully Dannon Did!

Readers Sound Off: What is your favorite Dannon Yogurt Flavor? Do you currently use Yogurt in any of your recipes? If so, which ones?

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FTC Disclosure: This is a compensated post sponsored by Dannon and Mamavation. 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 see our  Disclosure Page for additional information.

Things that lure Ascending Butterfly out of her butterfly cocoon of fabulosity: Electronics/Technology (yes I am a Gadget Geek first!), Fashion, Jewelry, Bubbly/Spirits, Foodie/Restaurants, Photography and Travel. And remember Ascending Butterfly does NOT have children, please do not pitch her toys (at least not those that are intended for children).

Unless it's charity related, If a campaign doesn't pay, this butterfly won't want to play.

Smile if you got this far, twirl around twice and sing Mariah Carey's Butterfly. Still here? Now go make someone happy today.

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

With 'Oscar Sunday' swiftly approaching, time is running out to catch up on the nominated movies. There are a few I have missed myself and need to catch up on, but there is one that I saw earlier this year before it's release that I wanted to make sure didn't slip under your radar.

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

Movie Synopsis:

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

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

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

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

MY TAKE:

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

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

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

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FTC Disclosure: Access to special screening with talk balk was granted to Ascending Butterfly for Editorial Consideration and all thoughts and opinions are my own. This is NOT a compensated post. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR Part 255  Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising see our  Disclosure Page for additional information.

Things that lure Ascending Butterfly out of her butterfly cocoon of fabulosity: Electronics/Technology (yes I am a Gadget Geek first!), Fashion, Jewelry, Bubbly/Spirits, Foodie/Restaurants, Photography and Travel. And remember Ascending Butterfly does NOT have children, please do not pitch her toys (at least not those that are intended for children).

Unless it's charity related, If a campaign doesn't pay, this butterfly won't want to play.

Smile if you got this far, twirl around twice and sing Mariah Carey's Butterfly. Still here? Now go make someone happy today.

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

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

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

The Corkcicle One

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here is a video of it in action:

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

























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

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

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

CHEERS!

MY TAKE:

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

Happy Valentine's Day to all my beautiful Butterflies!

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

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FTC Disclosure: Corkcicle provided their innovative product line to Ascending Butterfly for Editorial Consideration and all thoughts and opinions are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

Things that lure Ascending Butterfly out of her butterfly cocoon of fabulosity: Electronics/Technology (yes I am a Gadget Geek first!), Fashion, Jewelry, Bubbly/Spirits, Foodie/Restaurants, Photography and Travel. And remember Ascending Butterfly does NOT have children, please do not pitch her toys (at least not those that are intended for children).

Unless it's charity related, If a campaign doesn't pay, this butterfly won't want to play.

Smile if you got this far, twirl around twice and sing Mariah Carey's Butterfly. Still here? Now go make someone happy today.

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

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

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

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

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

(1) Reading

(2) Music

(3) Education

and last but certainly not least

(4) TRAVEL

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ABOVE: Indonesia also had a super eye catching booth!

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

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

Cultural Performances:

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

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

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

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

MY TAKE:

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

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

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

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FTC Disclosure: I was granted Press Access to the New York Times Travel Show for Editorial Consideration and all thoughts and opinions are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

Things that lure Ascending Butterfly out of her butterfly cocoon of fabulosity: Electronics/Technology (yes I am a Gadget Geek first!), Fashion, Jewelry, Bubbly/Spirits, Foodie/Restaurants, Photography and Travel. And remember Ascending Butterfly does NOT have children, please do not pitch her toys (at least not those that are intended for children).

Unless it's charity related, If a campaign doesn't pay, this butterfly won't want to play.

Smile if you got this far, twirl around twice and sing Mariah Carey's Butterfly. Still here? Now go make someone happy today.

In the mail awesomeness with @InfluensterVox @Maybelline #BigShotMascara @Allure_magazine #BeautyBox @preendotme @Elemis #spon

This past holiday season was very much a mixed bag for me. But there was some "In the Mail Awesomeness" that I couldn't resist sharing!

On the minus side:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Lost a family member

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Another had surgery and is still bed ridden

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Writing became one more 'to do' on my plate that I just didn't have very much energy for at the end of the day. Very long, long, long days which are still not totally back to normal, but getting there.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Not to mention I can't remember the last time I took a picture and did photography just for fun and  my own memories and not for work.

On the plus side:

When I did give myself some time to roam on the interwebs, it paid off!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - I stumbled upon the Lands End Marathon Twitter Party this year (which I would love to co-host someday myself) and ended up winning a $50 Gift Card! YAY ME! They host this twitter party marathon every year, and while I have participated each time this is the first time the randomizer Gods were smiling down upon me and I actually won.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - A friend shared a contest entry on her Facebook page as a status update and I entered a weekly contest for Restonic and I won a $100 Target Gift Card. I have a superstore near me and I can't wait to put a dent in that card!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - I still have my Kmart Gift Card from participating in the Kmart Shopping Event in NYC for St. Jude (if you missed that post, click here)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - I entered a contest on Preen.me for an Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream sample and won! (It can be seen in the photo at the top of the page)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - I qualified for an Influenster #BigShotMascara Vox Box and it arrived with the Colossal Big Shot Volum' Express Mascara #223 'Blackest Black' but also included a really neat bonus: Maybelline New York Master Precise Curvy liquid eyeliner #310 'Black' color - I must admit Vox Box is one my oldest box programs and I stick with them for good reason, so far their boxes have never disappointed me in any way. They always curate a great mix of cult classics and 'new to me's' that always end up getting added to my purchase list.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - And for the first year ever Allure Magazine decided to thank members of their insiders program with an Allure Beauty Box - In December I received the October 2016 box which included:

Briogeo Don't Despair, Repair Deep Conditioning Mask (for hair)

Spongelle Freesia Pear Body Wash Infused Buffer (looks sort of like a hockey puck and is stiff when dry but softens nicely in the shower and leaves you with a fresh scent and also buffs away dead skin cells)

Doucce Freematic Eyeshadow Single in 'Kristi' (brown powder eyeshadow with a tinge of shimmer)

Tatcha Indigo Soothing Silk Body Butter - contains indigo extract as well as colloidal oatmeal - allure calls it the 'cashmere onesie of body creams' YAS!!!!

Mally Volumizing Mascara - I will have to have a 'Mascara Off' and do one eye with the one I received from Influenster and the other eye with this one and see which one gives me the eyelashes with the most beautiful volume. 'Flirty Eyes Here I Come!' - I see you 2017! Because just like Jody Watley sings 'I'm looking for a new love baby, a new love....' - so I am fixing to get my flirty self all 2.0 for 2017.

Klorane Dry Shampoo with Oat Milk - I like the gentle scent on this one, the scent doesn't  linger and isn't over powering at all.

My Take:

I haven't torn into all of these new products yet and will do individual reviews of products once I have had a chance to thoroughly test them, these are mostly initial impressions.

It was nice to have "Beauty-Claus" pay a visit during a holiday season where the last thing I was thinking about was myself.

I think maybe it is the Universe trying to remind me to take some time for myself no matter what may be going on around me.

Readers Sound Off: What was your favorite gift from Santa this Christmas? Or if you are totally over the holidays, which of these products would you most like to try?

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

FTC Disclosure: This is a Sponsored Post, all products were provided to me free of charge for Editorial Consideration and all thoughts and opinions are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

Things that lure Ascending Butterfly out of her butterfly cocoon of fabulosity: Electronics/Technology (yes I am a Gadget Geek first!), Fashion, Jewelry, Bubbly/Spirits, Foodie/Restaurants, Photography and Travel. And remember Ascending Butterfly does NOT have children, please do not pitch her toys (at least not those that are intended for children).

Unless it's charity related, If a campaign doesn't pay, this butterfly won't want to play.

Smile if you got this far, twirl around twice and sing Mariah Carey's Butterfly.

Still here? Now go make someone happy today.