What does #SoccerFever in Times Square New York City with the @NewYorkRedBulls look like? Check it out! #VZWBuzz

Above: The New York Red Bulls Players, Times Square in New York City

The Verizon Team hit Times Square in New York City to surprise everyone with Face Painting and a visit from The New York Red Bulls! Verizon invited a group of New York City Bloggers to cover the scene at Times Square and then watch the Brazil vs Croatia game at a local Dave & Busters!

The photo highlights from this one are just too much for one post, so I gave this event its own dedicated pinterest board, I'm posting a few photos here and you can check out the rest via Ascending Butterfly's Pinterest Page.

As you know New Yorker's are far from shy, so it didn't take long to draw a crowd, but the very first person to approach us, was someone from Brazil who came up to the group and spoke to us in a very animated Portuguese, I think the collective look of confusion made her switch to English and then we all were able to easily switch to Spanish, here is a picture of that moment:

She was thrilled we were rooting for Brazil, and the team colors and spirit that were on display gave her a taste of home, while reminding me exactly why I love this city, you never know who you will meet! Chance encounters in New York City are part of what make it so fun to live here.

The New York Red Bulls showed off their skills and even invited the crowd to join in, here is someone who was brave enough to show their skills:

Even kids got in on the action:

Above: First her mom learned the trick, and then she wanted to learn it to! (remember you can check out more shots via Pinterest - where they will also load in full size!)

Above: Let's just say New York Bloggers know this little cutie quite well, even the team couldn't resist her!

I couldn't resist getting a shot with The New York Red Bulls:

That's me standing in the middle of The New York Red Bulls sporting my Brazil shirt and cool Shades!

And eventually we all headed out to a local Dave & Busters (who seemed pretty daunted by the size of our party!) here are some photos:

Above: This bad boy is called a 'Coronarita' - yep, it's a Corona inside a Margarita!

Thankfully with Verizon you can keep track of the games while on the go and never miss a beat! If you want to see more photos of the team, check out our Pinterest Page!

How many Soccer fans do we have in our Ascending Butterfly community? Let us know by posting a comment here telling us your favorite team! (Is there a team butterfly? LOL)

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

FTC Disclosure: Ascending Butterfly was provided was granted VIP/Press access so this event, and there was a gift bag, 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 and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

Foot Reflexology {#WordlessWednesday}

For those of you who like me have been doing a lot of 'running around' lately, I could really use a Foot Massage today!

Bloggers Feel Free to Post your Wordless Wednesday Link as a comment here so we can visit you too! (No Giveaways Please!)

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

FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a Sponsored Post. However any Photography company or brands interested in partnering with us to host a Photo-Centric Wordless Wednesday, please contact our editor! DSLR's welcome!

@BestBuy #GreatestDad #TwitterParty this time co-hosted by yours truly @Tracy_Iglesias #TheOfficialTwitterPartyDJ

#ad: Ascending Butterfly is a member of Best Buy's WOLF Blogger Program and this is a Sponsored Post. Compensation in the form of a Best Buy Gift Card and/or product/services at no or reduced cost has been exchanged, as always, all opinions are my own!

Remember when I told you there would be two Twitter Parties for Dads sponsored by Best Buy? Well number two is coming at ya, and it's going to be co-hosted by yours truly!

Best Buy is hosting another Twitter Party, don't forget to RSVP! Prizes include: Four (4) $25 Best Buy eGift Cards, Two (2) Dyson DC 65 Vacuum Cleaners (which I reviewed HERE), and TWO (2) GRAND PRIZE WINNERS will win an Insignia Flex Tablet!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - What: Best Buy #GreatestDad Father’s Day Twitter Party.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Who: Make sure to follow everyone, so you don’t miss any of the fun: @SunandSipCups and @BestBuy, plus @bestbuywolf, @mommymaestra, and ME! @Tracy_Iglesias

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - When: June 11th (6/11) at 11 AM CST/12 PM EST Twitter Party – #GreatestDad

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Where: On Twitter, use the #GreatestDad hashtag on all of your tweets, and make sure to follow everyone above.

What Best Buy Gift are you getting your Dad for Father's Day?

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

FTC Disclosure: I am a Best Buy Brand Ambassador. This allows me to share information, sales, product reviews and deals on a regular basis!  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 post may contain affiliate links.

A @DrMayaAngelou inspired #MotivationMonday

"We delight in the beauty of the butterfly, but rarely admit the changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty" ~Maya Angelou

I was born on April 4th just like Maya Angelou and hers is one of my absolute favorite butterfly quotes. Many of my butterflies noticed I changed my personal Twitter Account to the image above and I thought it would make the perfect Motivation Monday this week. And a special thanks to all the butterflies out there who email me quotes, pictures and poems they find about Butterflies, I cherish them all!

Being a butterfly is about transformation and change, but often we neglect to reflect upon the changes that get us to where we are and who we are at this very moment.

It's OK to be in transition right now butterflies. I know some of you don't feel like you are in the place you belong, or the skin you feel comfortable in, but I can promise you that it's all for a reason. These shifts, transitions and sometimes setbacks and detours are all an important parts of the process.

This Ascending Butterfly definitely mourns the loss of Maya Angelou, but I know her words are a legacy that will plant a seed of greatness in generations to come.

I hope these words will serve as a reminder to be kinder to those around you - we are all in different stages of our transitions butterflies - let's show more empathy to both our fellow caterpillars and butterflies today!

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

FTC Dislcosure: This is NOT a Sponsored Post.

#CasaValentina @TheTonyAwards Nominated Best Play at @MTC_NYC - run extended until June 29th - GO SEE IT!

Butterflies you definitely need to run not walk to Manhattan Theatre Club's Samuel J Friedman Theatre (they are a not-for-profit theatre) to catch Casa Valentina a World premiere play by Harvey Fierstein and Directed by Joe Mantello. It is a Tony Award Nominated Best Play and I got to find out for myself just why!

The play's run got extended until June 29th, and I urge you not to miss it. It received Outer Critic's Circle and Drama League Award Nominations.

Left to Right: (Seated) Patrick Page as Valentina, (Standing) Reed Birney as Charlotte, Nick Westrate as Gloria, John Cullum as Terry, and Larry Pine as Amy. Casa Valentina (Photo Credit: Matthew Murphy)

About/Synopsis:

Casa Valentina, (inspired by true events), is set in 1962 at a Catskill Mountains resort where heterosexual family men could spend weekends living their lives as women. This is Harvey Fierstein's first non-musical in a quarter century.

The bungalow colony at Chevalier d'Eon is run by George/aka 'Valentina' and his wife Rita (played brilliantly by Mare Winningham), the day guests first arrive for the season, which is where the play opens, George has just returned from a meeting with the Postal Inspector regarding homosexual pornographic images meant for a yet un-named guest. In an era where homosexuality was still illegal they are grappling with the prospect of losing their business, and the arrival of a leader of a social sorority for transvetites that has been recognized as a non-profit organization. The leader of the sorority, Charlotte Price, wants to recruit guests to join the board and become the first East Coast Chapter. Guests who visit regularly because they can enjoy the safety of anonymity at this resort are not pleased with the idea of providing their legal name and addresses and signing an affadavit that pledges they are in fact NOT homosexual. The 'self made women' now have to confront whether or not public recognition will help them gain a place in open society or would it in fact spell personal disaster?

MY TAKE:

Harvey Fierstein was actually sitting just across from me and seeing the performance with him being there, made it a bit more magical for me! After a bit of geeking out and a big mental Squee!!! - I summoned up the courage to ask him to sign my Playbill, which he graciously did, and he received a standing ovation when folks recognized him during intermission (I recognized him way sooner but kept it to myself! Which was super hard to do).

This is an incredible ensemble cast and each actor truly embodied their character perfectly. Mare Winningham is a perfect Rita (holding her marriage and her world together as best as she knows how), Patrick Page who portrays her husband George as well as Valentina, gives just as to much the role when he isn't saying a word as his expressions many times says it all. He embodied Valentina beautifully, and his struggles as George and with his own sexuality was amazing to watch!

Reed Birney is a most believable Charlotte. When she tells the 'girls' "I've gone to jail so that you don't have to. I've bared my soul on the battlement, dodged arrows of judgement to shield you." - you understand that she truly believes her way is the right way - for her it's that black and white but sadly those 'shades of grey' catch up with us all! Tom McGowan is a loveable 'Bessie'- while she isn't the oldest in the group she is like the Mother Hen in her own way. John Cullum bring us 'Terry' who I have to say has some of the best lines including:

"Boys, in my day, spent their first years in dresses and gradually worked their way up to knickers and eventually long pants. But a common punishment was to demote a mischievous child back into petticoats. They thought the embarrassment would shame the child into obedience. Oh, the terrible things I'd do to get punished and wear my precious gowns."

Larry Pine plays The Judge/Amy and it is The Judge that has the most to lose should his secret ever come to light. Lisa Emory portrays Eleanor, The Judge's daughter, (Eleanor of course wants nothing to do with her dad's 'other life')

Gabriel Ebert delivers a perfect Jonathan/Miranda a naive newcomer to the resort. And it is when the girls rally to give Jonathan a proper makeover and transition to a more polished Miranda that the sisterhood truly come together.

Last but certainly not least, Nick Westrate brings us Gloria - "the pretty girl, but irrestitible boy" - sharp, savvy, sassy and un-apologetic, he lit up the stage!

You grow to care for them all. The hallmark of both great writing and great acting! Finding a place in this world where you can truly be yourself is hard enough, but when being yourself goes against the 'norm', when do you stand up and stand out?

There may never be a 'right time' or a 'right place' but their search for acceptance and happiness in their personal 'Garden of Eden' gets threatened, not so much by the sorority leader but by a changing society. I didn't think of the sorority leader so much as a snake in their Garden but as a mirror. She forced everyone to look right at themselves and forced them to decide. A secret Shangri-La or a life lived out loud? And sometimes that's NOT as easy a choice as it may seem.

Harvey wrote two of my favorite Broadway Shows, La Cage Aux Folles and most recently Kinky Boots, and he just has a knack for human stories, this one does it without music, it is raw and powerful, and often times the actors say as much without words as they did with them.

Don't miss this play!

Where do you feel most yourself, Butterfly? Have you ever not felt accepted?

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

FTC Disclosure: Ascending Butterfly was provided with Casa Valentina Press Tickets 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.

{#WordlessWednesday} #Flowers in Bloom! {#Photo}

Happy Wordless Wednesday Butterflies! Feel free to link us to your WW post, by posting the link as a comment here, WW only, no giveaways please!

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

FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a Sponsored Post. However any Photography company or brands interested in partnering with us to host a Photo-Centric Wordless Wednesday, please contact our editor! DSLR's welcome!

@disneypictures @Maleficent Monday! So is #Maleficent a Ticket or Skip It? {#Movie #Review}

Well! Well! If you are here I am taking it you haven't seen it yet, remedy that ASAP! Maleficent is a definite TICKET!

Synopsis:

This is the untold story of Disney's most iconic villain from "Sleeping Beauty" from HER perspective. It shows the elements of her betrayal that ultimately turn her pure heart to stone. This movie finds her driven by revenge and her desire to protect the moors, the dominion in which she lives and presides. Of course you know she places a curse on Princess Aurora who gets caught in the middle of the forest kingdom she grows to love and the kingdom that is her legacy.

My Take:

Butterflies this is NOT your Grandma's Sleeping Beauty tale, it is re-visited, but most importantly, completely re-imagined, the CGI isn't the only thing telling the tale, everyone delivers a strong performance and it's that balance of getting lost in it's world and a strong ensemble that makes it work so well. It's Angelina's ability to take us from young innocent Maleficent, to woman scorned, to vengeance personified and back to 'mother earth' energy that makes the movie so compelling. You find yourself rooting for the villain even when you don't want to. And that's to me the 'beauty' of this 'sleeping beauty' - it isn't just her ability to deliver 'delicious darkness' but to make each phase of her character's arc completely believable.

Elle Fanning as Princess Aurora delivers a wonderful innocence with just enough inner strength, and not to be missed is Sam Riley's performance as Diaval who helps to temper Maleficent's rage (a bird like Jiminy Cricket!). The wall of thorns, and the play between darkness and light, is just all done to perfection.

As in most Disney movies, there are butterfly sightings in Maleficent, many in fact! In a beautiful scene where Angelina's daughter, Vivienne Jolie-Pitt portrays young Aurora and she is chasing butterflies, completely oblivious to her surroundings, and one of the CGI Fairies who watches over Aurora as she grows is constantly surrounded by Butterflies. (I have always wondered why there is always a butterfly sighting in most Disney movies, if anyone knows why, please share!)

This movie is a definitely TICKET, you need to see this on the big screen Butterflies, don't wait for video with this one!

That's me Ascending Butterfly on the left! We all know I have a love of all things with Wings! (and a penchant for Red Lipstick too! She hits all my favorite Fashion notes, all black outfit, wings and red lips!)

Have you seen Maleficent Yet Butterflies? What did you think?

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

FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a compensated post, I was provided Screening Passes 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.

Celebrating the #GreatestDad is Easy w/ Father's Day Buying Guide Selections from @BestBuy + TWO #TwitterParties

#ad: Ascending Butterfly is a member of Best Buy's WOLF Blogger Program and this is a Sponsored Post. Compensation in the form of a Best Buy Gift Card and/or product/services at no or reduced cost has been exchanged, as always, all opinions are my own!

Is your Dad the life of the party? or is he more a Tailgate from the Couch type? I have made it my personal mission each year to bring you 'tie-alternatives' and offer a comprehensive selection of gifts for Dads at various price points that have absolutely nothing to do with a tie.  The Best Buy Gift Center gave me some great ideas:

Press on the image above to buy an Apple TV for your Dad!

Press on the Image Above to go directly to the Bose SoundTouch 20 Wi-Fi Music System

UM, YES PLEASE! Behold the Samsung 48" Class LED 1080p 120Hz Smart HDTV

I think my Dad would have been in heaven to brew his own beer! Let Dad turn his 'Dad Cave' into his own personal Cheers Bar with the Krups Beertender!

HP ENVY TouchSmart Sleekbook Touch-screen Laptop

You might want to order TWO because you are going to end up wanting one for yourself - Microsoft - Xbox One Console with Kinect (don't forget to order the Xbox One Wireless Controllers while you are at it!)

LG Microwave + Pizza Oven - The 1400W Baking Drawer Plus 'Auto Pizza' Feature for precisely prepared Fresh or Frozen Pizza makes this Microwave a standout!

But Wait There's MORE! - TWO TWITTER PARTIES!

Best Buy is hosting not just one but TWO upcoming Twitter Parties, The first is on June 5th at 7:00pm CST so don't forget to RSVP! Prizes include: Four (4) $25 Best Buy eGift Cards, Two (2) Dyson DC 65 Vacuum Cleaners (which I reviewed HERE), and TWO (2) GRAND PRIZE WINNERS will win an Insignia Flex Tablet!

MY TAKE:

As I'm a tech and gadget lover I'd probably get anything on the list above for myself too! I mentioned that there would be TWO upcoming twitter parties, and I am co-hosting the Twitter Party on June 11th where we will be discussing great gifts for Grads, so stay tuned for the RSVP page to that party!

What Best Buy Gift are you getting your Dad for Father's Day?

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

FTC Disclosure: I am a Best Buy Brand Ambassador. This allows me to share information, sales, product reviews and deals on a regular basis! This is NOT a compensated post, I have not been compensated to share this event recap. 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 post contains affiliate links.

My summer skin smoother pick for face (and hands!)? @beautisol Ctirus #FaceExfoliant #bbloggers

#ad: While this is NOT a compensated post, Ascending Butterfly was provided with a product sample for editorial consideration via iFabbo Shop. All opinions are my own:

It is no secret by now to long time readers that I am an Exfoliant Junkie and I'm always up to testing a new scrub (both body and face!) and I may have found a summer perfect pick! I'm testing out beautisol's Exscrub Me? Citrus Face Exfoliant which is safe for All Skin Types and Paraben-free.

About Exscrub Me? Citrus Face Exfoliant:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Exfoliates and cleanses the face (the company also makes self-tanners, so this product was intended to be used to prep the skin for the application of self-tanner, but you can of course use this on it's own even if you don't self-tan)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Contains fine Jojoba beads to remove dead skin cells

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Infused with certified organic orange peel, lemon and grapefruit extracts

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Paraben-free, no propylene glycol, sodium laurel sulfate free, and cruelty free (PETA certified)

My Take:

I love this one for summer as that burst of citrus zing is a great scent during summer months. (I would use it in winter also, but it depends on how you feel about Citrus scents I guess.) This one will surprise you, it doesn't actually feel 'gentle', don't get me wrong, it's not super rough and won't irritate sensitive skin, but you do literally feel it working. It's not one of those 'so soft' exfoliants you wonder if it's actually sloughing off the dead skin, you can feel it but it does not strip or over dry your skin, it leaves your skin feeling soft and smooth and a little went a long way, I was actually able to do my face, neck and hands with a very small amount. Oddly enough I was actually immediately impressed more with the noticeable difference on my hands (so I guess I have been neglecting them lately)! As a result, I would just as easily recommend it for your hands as I do for face.

I for one find my face gets oilier in summer and to keep the skin looking renewed and bright I like to exfoliate as often as my skin will allow. I sweat more in summer so I tend to go lighter on foundation (if I wear it at all, usually I will just do a tinted moisturizer or BB/CC Cream instead), and I try to exfoliate to keep my pores happy.

It promises to make your skin feel as soft as a baby's caboose and warns you that it will scrub years off your face so to keep your ID handy! Exscrub Me is a good price point ($17 directly on beautisol's website) and a little goes a long way, if you take a moment to open your pores, either with a warm towel on your face before you apply or a bit of steam from the sink with a towel over your head you will find this even more effective on your skin. I would actually wait a bit after before applying anything over it whether you use it in the morning or at night. With some scrubs I would find my skin feeling too tight afterwards so I would want to apply either serum or moisturizer right away, but with this one, I don't get that tight skin feeling, just smooth and clean!

DISCOUNT ALERT:

Enter the code BOGO2014 to buy one get one free through June 31, 2014

What is your go-to skin Exfoliator Butterflies?

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

FTC Disclosure: I am a member of the iFabbo Shop Network. This is NOT a compensated post, I was provided product for editorial consideration. This is NOT a sponsored post and all opinions are 100% my own!  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

{#Review} @PerlierUSA Royal Elixir Face Serum #iFabboShop #PerlierOnHSN #bbloggers #Luxe

#ad: While this is NOT a compensated post, Ascending Butterfly was provided with a product sample for editorial consideration courtesy of #PerlierOnHSN via iFabbo Shop. All opinions are my own:

Perlier Honey Miel Face Royal Elixir Youth Serum 1.6 fl oz

My first encounter with Royal Jelly was when I working in a hospital and a co-worker was taking it in supplement form, and I inquired why she was taking it. She quickly went into a wide variety of the benefits of Royal Jelly, including: Brain Health, lowering Serum Cholesterol Levels, Anti-Biotic and Anti-Inflammatory Properties, as well as Anti-Aging. She had been taking it as a dietary supplement for over 10 years when I met her and I must admit she really did have amazing skin!

I never really thought about it again until last year when I had the chance to attend a Perlier Press Preview with Princess Amanda Borghese and Prince Scipione 'Skip' Borghese where they showed us a collection of Perlier Products that contain Royal Jelly as an ingredient! (If you missed that recap press HERE)

I had the chance to review the Perlier Imperial Honey Body Butter in the Winter (in case you missed that review, press HERE) and for summer I am testing the Royal Elixir Face Serum!

About Royal Elixir Face Youth Serum:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Formulated with Fresh Royal Jelly Pearls (Super nourishing!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Boosts Cell Regeneration and Cell Energy

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Light-weight Gel formula (Making it perfect for the warm months ahead!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Uses pure rose distillate instead of water which enhances moisturization and adds toning properties.

My Take:

I tend to lean towards serums for my skin in the summer and this one is definitely going to be on heavy rotation for me. It goes on smooth and silky, and does not clog my oily/acne prone skin which is a definitely plus! It does have micro-pearls so there are fine shimmer particles that add a subtle sort of 'healthy glow' to your skin, so if you don't like the idea of a bit extra shimmer, wear it at night after you cleanse your skin. 

Trust me this won't leave you glowing like the Vampires on Twilight or anything, but it's there! This is definitely a luxe category face serum, Perlier lists it at $200 for the 1.6 ounce but you can nab it for $99 at HSN  here: http://www.hsn.com/products/perlier-honey-royal-gold-elixir/7137713

Just remember a little goes a long way, so it will last you awhile, and if the 'Queen Bee' lives at least 5 times longer than the rest of her hive, I say show your best Queen Bee Face this summer and beyond!

What is your go-to skin hydrator for summer this year Butterflies?

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

FTC Disclosure: I am a member of the iFabbo Shop Network. This is NOT a compensated post, I was provided product for editorial consideration. This is NOT a sponsored post and all opinions are 100% my own!  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

{#Giveaway Alert!} Dads AND Grads picks from @wilsonsleather + enter to win a $100 Gift Card via @Ascending1!

June is all about Dads AND Grads!

With it being days away from June I know my butterflies are on the hunt for gifts for both Dads and Grads (and let's not even mention all those June Weddings!).

The little elves at Wilson's Leather have devised the PERFECT most quintessential gift for the discerning butterfly lover out there, it's a Leather Scuba Jacket with super trendy contrast color and a beautiful white and black butterfly lining! If you have a butterfly loving Grad on your list, this gift is for her!

I ADORE THIS JACKET:

It's the details on this jacket that make it such a standout - The unique placket, collarless design and contrast colors on this Leather Scuba Jacket with an amazing black and white butterfly lining that make this absolutely perfect for NOW - while Spring is slowly turning to summer here in the Northeast, I am the type of person that gets cold the minute I sit down when I go to a restaurant or a movie theater, and I personally always carry a jacket with me because of it, THIS is the Jacket that I will be carrying, the caramel color on this is seasonless juxtaposed with black contrast, and rolling up the sleeve shows off just a touch of butterflies when you have the jacket zipped up.

Above is a closeup of the lining. It's like someone at Wilson's Leather peeked into my dreams and designed this jacket. It is beautiful!

Wilson's Leather has Men's Jackets too!

Wilson's Leather has a great selection for Men as well as Women (and Women's PLUS too!), they have handbags as well as gifts for Business and Travel as well!

MY TAKE:

I have been shopping at Wilson's Leather for a LONG time now, they were actually my very first Leather Handbag Purchase when I was a teen and working my first job! I have had great experiences with Wilson's Leather, like most leather it actually gets more character as it ages. But you have to start with quality Leather for it to wear so well and that's were Wilson's always exceeds my expectations. I always urge people to read the reviews, as sometimes with Wilson's you do need to size up, although I normally advise sizing up with most outerwear from most brands, as you are going to be wearing it over sweaters, especially during Winter (and sometimes in Spring also as evenings are still a bit nippy!).

WIN IT!

Wilson's Leather wanted to help us kick off Dads and Grads with a BANG, and are offering one lucky butterfly a chance to win a $100 Gift Card to buy just the right gift for your special Dad or Grad!

Enter using the Rafflecopter Widget Below:

a Rafflecopter giveaway


Who will you be shopping for butterfly your Dad or a Special Grad?

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

FTC Disclosure: I was provided some of the products featured for editorial consideration. Ascending Butterfly blogs by Ethical Blogging Guidelines. 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.

A Moment to Remember Our Fallen #MemorialDay #NeverForget

The Ascending Butterfly Editorial Team wanted to remind everyone to take a moment to remember our fallen. I do pray for a day when this planet knows true 'Peace' but in the interim it is important to recognize the countless men and women who have sacrificed their lives for our country, for our freedom.

I was inspired by re-reading the story of the Red Poppies, and the poem written by Moina Michael:

"We cherish too,
the Poppy red
That grows in fields where valor led,
It seems to signal to the skies
That blood of heroes never dies."

It was her idea to wear red poppies on Memorial Day in honor of those who died serving the nation during war. She sold poppies to her friends and co-workers and the money was used to benefit servicemen in need. (By the way, Arizona Poppies are great for attracting butterflies!)

Find a way to be of service today. Moina found a creative way to help our servicemen, certainly we can too!

How are you remembering our fallen today butterflies?

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

FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a Sponsored Post!

This Weekend I Plan to _____ #FillintheBlankFriday

TGIF Butterflies! 

It's Fill in the Blank Friday on Social Media and I thought it would be fun for our community to play along!

This Weekend I Plan To: 
_______________________________

Post a comment with your answer!

Have a wonderful weekend Butterflies and I can't wait to read your answers!

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

FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a Sponsored Post.

We have THREE Winners to Announce + Teaser on upcoming #Fashion #Giveaway + Flash Poll!

We have THREE winners!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Congratulations to Entry #1368 Lucki G. and Entry #150 Margaret E. who won our Ascending Butterfly $100 Gift Card to shop at IGIGI Giveaway! - Join me in congratulating both winners and thanking our generous sponsor IGIGI for hosting an extra winner this time! Happy Shopping Ladies!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Congratulations to Entry #816 Dominique S who won our  $75 Gift Card to shop at In Bloom Giveaway!

I thought before posting any new giveaways we should do some 'book-keeping' and get up an official winners announcement for our last two giveaways first!

We do have another fantastic Fashion Giveaway coming soon! (Hint: It's a long time favorite Giveaway Sponsor who has sponsored both Fashion and Handbag Giveaways with us) All I can say is I'm bringing you the ULTIMATE gift for a butterfly lover. (Boys don't lose heart, oddly enough you will be able to use this prize too!)

And I do want you to know I am listening, I did a Flash Poll on our Facebook Page and asked which giveaway category you guys wanted to see next, you guys picked Beauty, so I just want you all to know it's duly noted, and I'm working on it!

What is YOUR Favorite Reader Appreciation Giveaway Item to win Butterfly?

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

FTC Disclosure: This winner announcement is NOT sponsored or compensated. Giveaway sponsors for all giveaways are responsible for prize fulfillment. Ascending Butterfly and Giveaway Sponsors are NOT responsible for lost or mis-directed mail or prizes damaged in transit.