@NYBG Celebrates Lilac Weekend and Plein-Air Invitational May 4-5 and this butterfly will definitely be there! #plantlove

New York Botanical Garden Celebrates Nature’s Love Letter to Spring with Lilac Weekend and Plein-Air Invitational

With its floral clusters, sweet fragrance, and heart-shaped leaves, the lilac is nature’s love letter to spring. The Burn Family Lilac Collection at New York Botanical Garden takes the spotlight as we celebrate this American garden favorite in all of its glorious forms, colors, and aromas (both spicy and sweet!) with plein-air painting, music, guided tours, and talks. 

Lilac Weekend and Plein-Air Invitational programming includes:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Fourth Annual Plein-Air Invitational Saturday, May 4 from 11 a.m.–4 p.m., various NYBG grounds locations Every year, to help mark the Garden’s rites of spring, distinguished plein-air artists from throughout the Northeast gather across the grounds in a public display of painterly talent and nature appreciation. Led by plein-air master James Gurney, participating artists work in various media while engaging with Garden visitors. Also joining will be artists affiliated with the NYC chapter of Urban Sketchers, an international nonprofit dedicated to fostering a global community of artists who practice on-location drawing. 

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Plein-Air Drop-In and Draw Saturday and Sunday, May 4 - 5, 11 a.m.–4 p.m., various NYBG grounds locations Draw inspiration from the Garden as a plein-air artist would. Drop in, grab a stool and materials and create an image of the Garden to take home. Instructors offer guided tips every half hour. 

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Lilac Garden Tours with Q&A Saturday and Sunday, May 4 -5 at 11 a.m., 12, 1, 2, & 3 p.m., at the Lilac Collection Deanna Curtis, NYBG’s Curator of Woody Plants, will be on hand to share her expertise on this historic collection. 

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Live Music among the Lilacs Sunday, May 5 at 1, 2, & 3 p.m., at the Lilac Collection String Quartet by so&so (symphony orchestra and select others) is a curating collective whose symphony-centric performances feature young professional, top-caliber musicians from all over the world. For its debut season, NY-based so&so has partnered with several organizations, including The New York Botanical Garden, to present a variety of projects such as symphony performances, opera and original ballet. 

For a complete schedule of events, visit https://www.nybg.org/event/lilac-weekend/

WHEN: Saturday and Sunday, May 4 - 5, 11 a.m.–4 p.m. 

WHERE: The New York Botanical Garden, 2900 Southern Boulevard, Bronx, New York

My Take:

I am looking forward to visiting New York Botanical Garden for Lilac Weekend, this is definitely a wonderful idea as an early Mother's Day Gift for mom, make a day of it!

READERS: Are you finally seeing signs of Spring? What is your favorite flower?

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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a compensated post and all opinions are 100% my own!  The love however is genuine, NYBG is one of my favorite places in New York City! 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.

Let's Digest @GameOfThrones Season 8 Episode 1 Together Shall We? We laughed, We Cried, We read the memes! #GoT #gameofthrones #gots8 #gameofthronesseason8 #demthrones

This is all Spoilers so if you haven't watched it, come back once you have! So much to digest (in no particular order):

(1) The Dragons watching Jon Snow get busy with his Aunt! If you thought it was bad enough to have a dog or cat watching you, imagine a dragon watching you get busy! Although the Dragons watching were less creepy than Tyrion right outside their door listening to them, what was that about?

(2) Tormund is alive! Although his blue eyes almost got him killed again, in what had to be the funniest scene of this episode! Please hurry up and reunite him with Brienne. (although everyone says Brienne loves Jaime, I want her with Tormund!) Don't you want just one person to look at you the way Tormund does with Brienne?
(3) Is it wrong to say Theon Greyjoy finally grew a nut/pair? Oops, too soon? My bad! LOL

(4) The side eye between Sansa Stark and Daenerys Targaryen was literally EVERYTHING!

(5) Sam's face when Daenerys told him she killed his father and brother. OUCH!

(6) Cersei thinking some Elephants are going to sway things in her favor....although we must give her credit for the most quoted of the night on twitter with:

"You want a Whore, Buy One. You want a Queen, Earn Her"

(7) Bran is going to get frostbite sitting out there all day and night like that, just saying! And the 'church lady' judgmental face he has been giving everyone this episode is on point! LOL

(8) Who else jumped out their skin when the kid on the wall started screaming? Although I do love how folks are making some interesting speculations about the fire pattern and its resemblance to the Targaryen house.

(9) Jon reuniting with Arya. Third funniest moment, when he asked if she ever used 'needle', she said 'once or twice'.....Tee hee!

(10) Arya and The Hound's reunion? GULP! All the memes offering him chicken though on Twitter kept me laughing out loud.

(11) Jaime and Bran's reunion? AWKWARD! (Above: Jaime pushes Bran from the Tower in Season one) In this episode Bran tells Samwell Tarly he is waiting for an 'old friend' to arrive to Winterfell. You know what they say, 'keep your friends close and your enemies closer'! Can I get a 'frenemies' up in here?

(12) Episode one of Season 8 and everyone asking "Where's Ghost?' - all we know is that Ghost is still alive, but if he will come back remains to be seen. He better not have blue eyes either!

(13) Jon and Dany riding Dragons together prompted quite a few how to train your dragon memes on twitter. and finally: Jon is king Aegon Targaryen, Sixth of his name, Protector of the Realm! There was a lot going on in this Episode, it's going to be quite a final season!

Readers: Was there a highlight of this Episode you want to talk about that is not listed above? Who do YOU think will end up on the Iron Throne?
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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a compensated post, and all opinions are 100% my own!  The love however is genuine,  I am a die hard Game of Thrones Fan! 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.

Not so #WordlessWednesday - What are the signs of Spring in New York City? The Ice Cream Truck and the @NYBG Orchid Show! Sponsored by @Citi and supported by @stb_sg #plantlove

I was beginning to think the Groundhog lied and that Spring would never visit New York City, I mean we recently had SNOW!

This year is my 10 year blogaversary and my birthday is coming up in April - I am so revved up for Spring and warmer weather!

Signs of Spring are finally beginning to show here in New York City. Two solid signs of Spring in my neck of the woods are the sounds of the ice cream truck and the annual Orchid Show at New York Botanical Garden.

It's a show I try hard not to miss and this year the theme is "Singapore". This is the 17th year of The New York Botanical Garden's popular orchid exhibition. It was developed in partnership with Gardens by the Bay and Singapore Botanic Gardens. Supported by the Singapore Tourism Board.

Since I am so lucky to have The New York Botanical Gardens so close to where I live, it was much like taking a trip to Singapore without the expensive airplane tickets!

Let me take you through the highlights of the Media/Press Preview Day:

Above: Members of the Press were greeted with the most delicious Breakfast Empanadas from Empanology. I love Breakfast and I love Empanadas, this combo is definitely working for me! This nod to Puerto Rican Culture right here in the Boogie Down Bronx couldn't have made me more proud.

Above: Couldn't resist nabbing this earthy logo shot - All meat and poultry used is sourced through local farmers raising hormone and antibiotic-free animals, serving locally-sourced product and pasture-raised dairy. The New York Botanical Garden has been inviting so many interesting food vendors to their events and I am so glad that they put Empanology on my radar, I definitely have to visit them at their 2407 Third Avenue Bronx, NY location soon! 

Above: Yes, I took TWO! (In all fairness, it was one of each variety, I had to try them both out of course, it's my job as press!) They both taste as good as they look too! YUMMY! It definitely reminded me of the empanadas we would buy before hitting the beaches in Puerto Rico. This media day literally took me to two places - Puerto Rico with these empanadas and Singapore with the amazing exhibit. This is totally activating my wanderlust!

Above: The Uptown Vegan was also on deck with sweets and treats and I am a bit pleased with how this shot captures the signage against the snowy ground with the Enid Haupt Conservatory in the background! I am also experimenting with my watermark (can you see it?)

Above: The iconic Supertrees of Gardens by the Bay recreated at The New York Botanical Gardens, you know Ascending Butterfly is always looking up, instead of a boring shot from faraway just so you can see how tall it is, I wanted to shoot it from a lower perspective looking up.

Above: The Famed Arches of Singapore Botanic Gardens' National Orchid Garden are replicated to perfection in the Enid Haupt Conservatory of The New York Botanical Gardens

Above: At the Media preview we got to meet 'Awkwafina' -Vanda Awkwafina that is! A Vanda hybrid of Susan Best x Crownfox Black Forest.

"We think Awkwafina is the perfect choice because of her accomplishments in music and film as well as her prominence as a native New Yorker." ~ Marc Hachadourian, NYBG's Director of Glasshouse Horticulture and Senior Curator of Orchids

I want a flower named after me too! Come on, wouldn't an Ascending Butterfly Flower be perfect for The New York Botanical Garden?

Above: I wish my template allowed this one to be bigger, please press this photo to see it full size, the details here and drops of dew falling off the flowers and frozen in time makes this one of my favorite flower photos captured by me! And this is a compressed version of it because my blog template doesn't allow me to post RAW photo files, in RAW format this is even more stunning.

Above: Look a rare butterfly sighting! LOL You guys know I am much more comfortable behind the camera and way less comfortable in front of it, but with a backdrop like this I literally couldn't resist. (Just sad the photographer didn't nab a full length and get my cute new boots!) Spot my logo watermark?

MY TAKE:

The show runs from February 23rd through April 28, 2019 and is part of NYBG's year-long theme #plantlove featuring exhibitions, programs, and projects exploring the essential connections between plants, people and the environment.

It had actually recently snowed so my plans to wear a cute spring dress were dashed by the need to keep warm - hopefully I can hit one of the Orchid Evenings when the weather gets better and get a more dressy shot of myself with the orchids as a backdrop to all my fabulosity! :)

And no, I haven't forgotten about you butterflies. I am working on a very epic project still in stealth mode which is why this post isn't accompanied by my usual Orchid Evenings tickets giveaway, stay tuned I hope to be able to offer a giveaway before the end of this amazing exhibition, I just need some time to come up for air on what I am working on right now. Which is why I wanted to get this post up so you would add the show to your list of fun spring things to do in the city!

I take inspired photos from this show every year, and it gives me the chance to practice my photography which got re-ignited after the devastating fire I suffered last year where I lost the majority of my photos! I have to start my Photo Memories all over again, now with a much greater perspective on exactly how valuable my visual memories really are.

I took 162 photos in total, editing all that and optimizing them for my template will take awhile, so you will definitely see more floral wordless wednesdays and I will try to get as many as possible on our Instagram Feed too! If you look on my Instagram, there is a very zen video of the Three Graces Fountain inside of the Enid Haupt Conservatory at The New York Botanical Garden HERE!

Now I need to follow this with a trip to both Puerto Rico and Singapore - Tourism Boards are you reading this? :)

READERS: What are the signs of spring where you are?

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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a compensated post, is an event recap, and all opinions are 100% my own!  The love however is genuine! 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.

{TONIGHT} Join us for the #ClaraLume Valentine's Day #TwitterParty - follow @Tracy_Iglesias and @Ascending1 your moderators as well as sponsor @claralumeshop

DISCLOSURE: This is a sponsored post and part of a compensated campaign for Clara Lumé

Happy Valentine's Day Butterflies!

Tonight is the night!

Join us for the Clara Lume Twitter Party tonight at 9pm hosted by yours truly!

Still time to get in your extra credit on the rafflecopter form.

WIN IT:

You are cordially invited to win your own Clara Lumé AURORA Handbag at our #ClaraLumé Valentine's Twitter Party being held on Thursday, February 7th, at 9 p.m. EST - that's 6pm in California for our West Coast friends!

This party is for a half hour, so be sure to be there on time and use the hashtag #ClaraLumé to play along! Using the hashtag is your entry! So the more questions you answer and the more times you use the hashtag the more entries you will receive.

This one is open internationally! All USA, Canada and International Readers are very much welcome to join us!

Are you swooning over Clara Lumé as much as I am?

Here is a chance to RSVP, do some extras like additional social follows and earn some extra credit:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Look for our post about the party on Instagram, tagging friends there will get you extra credit as well!

It's in the rafflecopter, just remember you need to be following both https://twitter.com/claralumeshop and https://twitter.com/Tracy_Iglesias so it will be easy to DM you should you be the lucky winner! (And please note, if I get thrown in Twitter Jail for tweeting too much, yes this has happened, I will switch to the Ascending Butterfly Twitter Account so follow it too just in case: https://twitter.com/Ascending1)

DISCOUNT:

Ascending Butterfly Blog is honored to have the very FIRST and very much exclusive Discount Code!

Can't wait for the party?

Nab 10% off at Shop Clara Lumé by using the code: BUTTERFLY10 - note this code expires June 2019 so nab yours now!

"Sensual Hearts" Light show - Clara Lumé Aurora Handbag

My Take:

This bag has been getting me so much attention at New York Fashion Week events! It makes me a new friend everywhere I go!

Cute photo of me sporting my bag during the Twitter Party! Can't give it all away now right?

Readers: Join us on TONIGHT for the Valentine's Day Twitter Party!

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

FTC Disclosure: This is both a sponsored and compensated campaign, and all opinions are 100% my own!  The love however is genuine! 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.

#ad - {Calling All #Fashion Lovers! #GIVEAWAY} Ascending Butterfly is bringing back our "Featured #Handbag In The Spotlight" with a #DesignerHandbag from @claralumeshop and a Valentines Day Themed Twitter Party too! + EXCLUSIVE Discount Code! #ClaraLumé

DISCLOSURE: This is a sponsored post and part of a compensated campaign for Clara Lumé

 

After the major fire I dealt with last year, I have found myself very much in a 'starting over' position. Not exactly a fun place to be. That actually was just one of many challenges on my plate last year. My handbag collection was one of my treasures and having to start that again from scratch feels like an incredibly daunting task. 

I started this empowerment community in 2008, because nothing like it existed at the time. I was looking for empowerment that wasn't necessarily spiritual, I was a long time life coach looking for my own inspiration. I couldn't find it, so I created it. 

'Blogging my way through it' has really been my therapy, and in doing so, I found my tribe. People who wanted a place to turn that was positive. A moment of light. 

With Valentine's Day swiftly approaching, I wanted to find a way to give my butterflies a gift and bring back my all time favorite regular feature! 

I have decided this year I do not want to stick with what I know, I do not want to play it safe, it is time to turn heads! And this Valentine's Day Recommendation and our first Featured Handbag in the Spotlight for 2019 is definitely going to help me achieve that goal.

I have a few Valentine's Day Recos, but I can't help but to start with this one and when you see the bag you will totally get why!

There are several passions I have often dreamed of turning into a full time business (and in some cases have been approached to do so):

Handbag Design (I have been approached about this, but haven't found the right partner yet)

Creating my own Scent (I sort of do this already, I also do it with lipstick)

Owning a Winery (Champagne or Prosecco Please!)

Owning a Casino (I have been enjoying 'Casino-Cations' for years now, in different places, I can take the best from each and avoid the mistakes I have seen along the way, I'd be good at this!)

Some of these being a bit more do-able than others, but all vision board worthy!

One of the things I love do when I collaborate with Designers is pick their brain. I love to know what inspires fellow creatives. How dreamers bring their visions to life.

Five minutes with Richard Hofer of Lucent Wear LLC: 

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - When was Clara Lumé  formed? 

Development of the Clara Lumé bag started in April of 2017. The product was released publicly in September of 2018. 

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ -  What was the inspiration for the design? 

The original inspiration for the Clara Lumé bag was from Burning Man. I have been many times and I absolutely love the culture. Light up fashion is popular at the event and I found it very inspiring. Over the years I have developed and shared a number of art projects at the event. One of these projects was a set of light up coats. They were amazing, but they weren’t something that could be brought directly to the market for everyone to enjoy. They were just too expensive to build, too heavy, too hot, and too fragile for the general public. So, I looked for a way that I could share some of that fun but in an affordable and durable product. And that’s where the Clara Lumé bag came in. 

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ -  Can the fur be water treated like footwear to prevent stains? or is it just the leather that can be treated to prevent stains and make it easier to clean? 

We do not recommend treating the fur with stain preventers. They often change the feel of the fur, and it’s not really necessary anyway. During development we tested many different fur products and one of the reasons we chose the one we did was because of its ability to resist staining. We tested red wine, cola, beer, and several other staining substances and found that they all could be easily removed with water alone. The fur fibers are very stain resistant. If something does get on your bag we recommend spot cleaning with a damp cloth and a small amount of soap. Do not wet the fur all the way through as this can loosen the fibers. 

 Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ -  Will you offer interchangeable straps? 

We are certainly planning on offering different length straps and other styles as well in the future. 

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ -  What is your typical day like, are you involved in other businesses in addition to Clara Lumé?

During development of the bag Clara Lumé was more than a full time job. Once the product was released and production was lined out, the work load started to decrease. As of the last few months I have been taking on other outside engineering consulting contracts to fill my time. As sales increase with Clara Lumé I suspect I will have to devote my entire energy to the business once again. 

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ -  Please consider making matching vests and boots! :) 

Boots are on the horizon, but I need to get this product rolling steadily first.

I got my Clara Lumé Aurora bag all set up this weekend and it is making it's debut for New York Fashion Week events this month!

This bag is well crafted, super soft, and the unique light show feature is going to turn heads. I have had so much fun playing with the app and picking light shows for it that match my personality like Yin and Yang, Cross, Sensual Hearts and She's on Fire! (And don't think I wasn't pumping Alicia Keys' 'Girl on Fire' in tune to the light show on my Aurora!)

WIN IT:

You are cordially invited to win your own Clara Lumé AURORA Handbag at our #ClaraLumé Valentine's Twitter Party being held on Thursday, February 7th, at 9 p.m. EST - that's 6pm in California for our West Coast friends!

This party is for a half hour, so be sure to be there on time and use the hashtag #ClaraLumé to play along! Using the hashtag is your entry! So the more questions you answer and the more times you use the hashtag the more entries you will receive.

This one is open internationally! All USA, Canada and International Readers are very much welcome to join us!

Are you swooning over Clara Lumé as much as I am?

Here is a chance to RSVP, do some extras like additional social follows and earn some extra credit:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Look for our post about the party on Instagram, tagging friends there will get you extra credit as well!

It's in the rafflecopter, just remember you need to be following both https://twitter.com/claralumeshop and https://twitter.com/Tracy_Iglesias so it will be easy to DM you should you be the lucky winner! (And please note, if I get thrown in Twitter Jail for tweeting too much, yes this has happened, I will switch to the Ascending Butterfly Twitter Account so follow it too just in case: https://twitter.com/Ascending1)

DISCOUNT:

Ascending Butterfly Blog is honored to have the very FIRST and very much exclusive Discount Code!

Can't wait for the party?

Nab 10% off at Shop Clara Lumé by using the code: BUTTERFLY10

"Sensual Hearts" Light show - Clara Lumé Aurora Handbag

My Take:

I love that the Aurora Handbag has the light show on BOTH sides, and lets me express a wide range of moods at any given time. For my animal lovers, it's FAUX Fur, while it feels soft like a rabbit, no rabbits were harmed in the making of this handbag.

It gives me ski bunny realness and you are going to turn heads wearing this bag that's for sure!

I will post a photo of myself soon rocking my new Aurora handbag soon (Hmm....or maybe I will save it for the Twitter Party on Thursday!)

Hopefully in honor of our partnership they will develop a butterfly light show on the Aurora just for me!

Readers: Are you joining us on Thursday for the Valentine's Day Twitter Party?

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

FTC Disclosure: This is both a sponsored and compensated campaign, and all opinions are 100% my own!  The love however is genuine! 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.

Not so #WordlessWednesday with @SenteursdOrient and @ElilaFullFigure + Focus Phrase Time! #WednesdayMotivation

Getting my "NEW" on for New Year's Eve + FOCUS PHRASE TIME!

2018 was probably the second worst year of my life, so I decided I was breaking all New Year's Eve patterns completely.

Well maybe not *ALL* of them.

I kept the champagne.

I kept the eating something sweet during the 12 second count down. This alternates each year depending on what I have on hand, sometimes grapes or sometimes chocolate. During that time I read from a list of New Years Wishes - things I want to manifest during the New Year. So I start my countdown at 12 seconds before the new year so I can read off 12 wishes - one for each month of the year.

I normally wear red underwear because I am an Aries and Red is my "Power Color" And it has always been my tradition to do so.

This year I did not do red. I did a most divine plum instead from Elila Full Figure.

And I even changed my soap, using a brand new to me Senteurs d'Orient!

The above photo I edited with Ribbet and the insta art below I did with Corel Paintshop:

FOCUS PHRASE FOR 2018 - You know I have mixed feelings about 'resolutions', I am more partial to the idea of 'goal setting' for your birthday. That is when your personal year actually resets, not December 31st. But my phrase last year was "Self Care" and quite frankly butterflies, I failed MISERABLY at it.

So it is my phrase for this year as well.

Self-Care is and can be so many things.

MY TAKE:

If you remember I first met Elila Full Figure when I was covering Curve Expo, you can get a great description of the brand and see a model wearing Elila in my Curve Expo recap coverage post: HERE

I plan on covering Curve Expo again this year and will definitely be making a beeline directly to Elila's booth to see their new styles. I am obsessed with them now. They need to put a ring on it and make me an official ambassador!

The soap, Senteurs D'Orient I actually won from a Blog Contest being hosted by a blogger via instagram, it is definitely one of my favorite discoveries, I love the rich lather and the amazing scents offered by Senteurs. I haven't tried them all, but definitely love the Amber, and the Almond Exfoliant so far the best.

Both of these would be lovely for VALENTINES DAY or GALENTINES DAY! And this DSLR Photography Enthusiast is always up for creating custom Art Photos/Prints or Posters like the one displayed above, so DM me via Insta (@Ascending1 - this is also the blog Twitter) or email me directly here if you want a custom art piece for your walls.

Hopefully I can get Elila and Senteurs to come back and do something fun for my butterflies.

Readers/Butterflies Sound Off: What is your focus phrase/word for 2019? Do you have an underwear color preference for New Year's Eve?

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

FTC Disclosure: No monetary compensation has been received, 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.

At the corner of #Tech and #Fashion is the OS by Google: @MichaelKors Access Runway #Smartwatch pick yours up @bestbuy today! #MichaelKors #AccessItAll #ad

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. Best Buy provided a Michael Kors Access Runway  Smartwatch for Editorial Consideration. There are affiliate links in this post.

Watches are a staple Fashion statement that are not going anywhere anytime soon. However like most tech, they are getting smarter. A watch is becoming more of a personal assistant than plain wrist jewelry.

You can check off that tech loving Fashionista on your list with the Michael Kors Access Runway  Smartwatch available at Best Buy

Features:

Compatible with Android phones and iPhone®

Wear OS by Google works with phones running Android 4.4 or later (excluding Go edition) or iOS 9.3 or later operating systems.*

Calendar, SMS, email and social apps notifications

Keep you updated on day-to-day happenings.

Touch, tap and swipe for easy menu navigation 

1.19" AMOLED touch-screen display.

Stainless steel case 

Along with a 18mm stainless steel watch band ensures durability and an elegant look.

Water-resistant design 

Defends your smartwatch against submersion in up to 98' of water.

Wireless connection to your device 

Bluetooth 4.1 LE connectivity and NFC technology enables simple one-touch pairing.

Comprehensive monitoring 

Tracks distance, calories burned, activity, sleep activity, heart rate and steps taken.

Vibrate mode 

Quietly alerts you to a range of notifications, such as incoming e-mails, calls and text messages, as well as upcoming calendar events.

Built-in battery

Offers up to 24 hours of use on a full charge for extended operation.

Customizable

Custom Watch Faces and Interchangeable Straps

Pay With A Wave

Wave your wrist and go with Google Pay's NFC Technology

Smarter Health Coaching

Activity Tracking and Coaching based on the guidelines from the American Heart Association & World Health Organization.

If you have been following the "Days of my Computer" Soap Opera Drama, I finally found a laptop, which just like the watch can be purchased at Best Buy! During the Black Friday Sales this year I nabbed the HP - Spectre x360 2-in-1 15.6" 4K Ultra HD Touch-Screen Laptop - Intel Core i7 - 16GB Memory - 512GB SSD - HP Finish In Dark Ash Silver for a steal! (All me, not sponsored, I purchased this one, will give a more detailed review of the computer in a seperate post, still under 30 days and we are focusing on the watch in this post.)

I love how the gold tone accents on my laptop play with the gold tone on the smartwatch!

A few lifestyle shots of my synced up tech in action.

Sync Watch to your Smartphone by downloading the Wear OS App. Smartphone not included, but if you need a new smartphone you can get one at Bestbuy while you are at it.

I did a quick Kiss imPRESS Gel Manicure with a mix of rose gold, gold tone glitter accents and matte burgundy velvet so I could give you some Vanna White cuteness while showing off the watch.

I am happy to report it is also compatible with Spotify! You know I have to have my Music with me everywhere I go.

MY TAKE:

Best Buy can pretty much be your one stop shop this year for holiday shopping. Any entrepreneur, travel lover or time strapped student on your list would love the Michael Kors Access Smartwatch.

My favorite feature? With all the stress on my plate this year it would have to be having the breathing exercise guiding me to be more aware of my breathing and taking a deep breath more often, having my calendar on my wrist to easily see an address without having to pull out my phone is great also.

This watch is definitely a holidays buying guide pick for 2018!

Readers: Are you upgrading to a Smartwatch? Who on your holiday shopping list would most love a Smartwatch?

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

FTC Disclosure: No monetary compensation has been received, a watch was provided for Editorial Consideration and all opinions are 100% my own!  Affiliate links are used in this post. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

These 10 #Travel and #Tech Products are a must have for your Holidays 2018 Wish List! #CTATravel

Disclosure: This is an event recap. This post is NOT compensated.

I am woefully behind on Event Recaps thanks to a summer that brought a devastating fire on the Fourth of July due to someone sneaking up to the roof of my apartment building and throwing illegal fireworks, followed by a death in the family a week later, and culminating in me twisting BOTH my ankles and spraining my wrist a week after that!

To say it has been a "challenging' summer would be a complete understatement.

All the events I did get to attend before my world came crashing down were pretty amazing, and while it may take me awhile I promise I will get to each and every one of them.

I had the chance to attend the Techlicious/Consumer Technology Association/CES Lunch and Learn event at Quality Italian Restaurant in Midtown New York City.

I will start with the hot tech first and then lead into the great food!

These are the great products I was exposed to (these are NOT reviews, I got to see the products at the event, not road test them personally, so these are first impressions)

Since the nice reps from Roku were seated at my table, I will start with Roku first:

Roku Streaming Stick

I am totally getting sick of dealing with my Cable Company, and with features like Hotel and Dorm Connect the Roku Streaming Stick is perfect for both Travelers as well as College Kids hitting the dorm. Why pay the hotel a million bucks to rent a movie when you can just bring along your own streaming stick? Retail Price = $49.99 - these were in our gift bags but I didn't get a chance to test mine as it was lost in the fire, if Roku sends out a replacement I will definitely provide you guys with a full review.

The next brand has been at several events I regularly cover including The Luxury Review/The Luxury Tech Show and I haven't had a chance to take the demo or speak to the reps (in this instance it was my arrival time, at LTS my time at certain booths ran overtime during the Press Preview time period and once that event opened up to non-press it was just too crowded to get in there.) But I have wanted to take the demo and will have to make sure to do it next time I see HTC Vive.

HTC Vive

I love that Virtual Reality is being used by the travel/hospitality industry to help you tour a destination or a hotel room without ever leaving the comfort of your couch. Retail Price = $1,399 (definitely a splurge but Vive Pro definitely has one of the richest content libraries available on SteamVR and VIVEPORT.

Ashley Chloe Helix Cuff

You guys know I am called #TheOfficialTwitterPartyDJ via Twitter because I am a Twitter Party Hostess with the Mostest who LOVES Music and hasn't met the twitter party yet I couldn't find the right song for. I am always on the market for new audio and when I can combine my love of audio and tech with my love of fashion and accessories all the better! My Audio 'Form Meets Function' pick from the event is definitely The Ashley Chloe Helix Cuff. The world's first wearable wireless Bluetooth headphones with cVC noise reduction, AptX Technology, Smart Multipoint Connectivity and Bluetooth 4.1. Retail Price = $99.00 - $249.99 (The pricier one is the Helix 24K Gold Edition, love the exclusive color! I would have to listen to Bruno Mars 24K first on these!) Earbuds not getting twisted or destroyed in my cavernous handbag, PRICELESS!

myCharge Pride Limited Edition Power Bank

myCharge Pride Limited Edition Power Bank was donating 5% of Pride Month Power Bank Sales to The Trevor Project, and since later on this year I got to cross attending Ru Paul's Drag Con off my bucket list (full post to come) - this got me a thumbs up every time I pulled it out to keep my phone charged during the conference. This is a little bulkier than some of the Power Bank's I have used in the past, but love the on and off button, how fast it charges my devices and how long it holds its own charge. The plug for the wall flips out, and this charges itself AND the device simultaneously. This one definitely gets a thumbs up from me, and something like this can cross off nearly everyone on your list! Retails for $34.99

Hum by Verizon 

With holiday travel at it's peak and everyone driving to visit family and friends, the Hum by Verizon certainly helps prove that 'those who wander are not lost'.  With pinpoint roadside assistance, you can get the help you need by using the Hum App to request 24/7 roadside assistance, there is also a mechanics hotline, stolen vehicle assistance, maintenance reminders, you can check your safety score (this helps keeps insurance costs low), vehicle diagnostics and you can also turn your car into a Wi-Fi Hotspot allowing passengers to stream, surf and game on the road (eliminating the dreaded "Are We There Yet?" Questions, PRICELESS).

Sony WH-1000X M3 Wireless Headphones

The Sony WH-1000X M3 are pricey at $349.99, but these wireless, noise cancelling beauties offer five hours playback from a mere 10 minute charge, perfect for us frequent fliers who struggle to find an outlet or left our trusty powerbank behind. We were shown the M2's but the M3's are already out now. I need these in my life and am sad they were not in the gift bag!

Sony SP700N true wireless earphones

With extra bass and the Google Assistant built into these Sony SP700N true wireless earphones, you can make easy hands free at the click of a button, enjoy digital noise cancellation or ambient sound which lets you hear essential sounds. The compact carrying case not only keeps them secure, but holds an additional two full three hour charges, so you can power them on the go! These sound perfect for my morning commute, and I am bummed that these weren't in the gift bag either. These Retail for $149.99.

Sony RX100 Advanced Camera

Sony was showing their RX100 Advanced Camera with 1.0 Sensor, while it may be portable, the specs are definitely not 'lightweight'. It is a 20.2 MP, with a SteadyShot that reduces blur even in low light, HD video capabiity for beautiful video and full manual control for creative photography. It retails for $369.99. Not in the gift bag either, le sigh. I have had my eye on the Sony a7rIII which I played with last year during Fashion Week at Sony Square Space in NYC and then again at this year's Photo Plus Expo. I took a picture with it that served as a Best Buy contest entry during the Expo which is featured on my Instagram page here: https://www.instagram.com/p/BpbS1-TAXLt/ - I have to say I am bit more inclined to the A7RIII, but this has a $2,799 retail price tag making the RX100 a bit more holiday budget friendly. But as Photography is a huge part of my career, not just a hobby/passion, I am telling Santa I want the A7RIII (42.4 MP with 14-bit RAW output!) for Christmas! I really have been a very, very, very, good butterfly this year.

Speck Presidio for iPhone X

Speck Presidio for iPhone X offers 8 foot drop protection! While I am an Android girl and have never owned an iPhone, I have witnessed a ton of friends, family and colleagues drop their uber expensive phone and ended up walking around with a cracked screen - not cute. Why not make a small investment in protecting it instead? At $39.95 ($27.96 if you act fast to nab the extended Cyber Week deal) it gives you something absolutely PRICELESS - peace of mind!

Modobag - Motorized Luggage

See that image above? That is a grown man riding on Modobag - Motorized Luggage, it convinced me to give it a go:

Actually I watched TWO men ride this thing before I opted to get on it myself.

Zip through the airport terminals and never miss a flight, on a single charge the Modobag has the ability to travel up to 6+ miles based on a rider weight of 180 pounds, it has an indoor speed of 4 MPH, and outdoor speed of 7 MPH, three times a regular walking pace, and it goes to full charge in two hours. It also has two USB ports for individual or simultaneous charging. I totally want this for Christmas, as a Blogger this would be my portable office for press trips! I really want this! The Retail on Modobag is $1,495 - which considering designer luggage costs three times as much, and does not haul you around in addition to your stuff, this is actually a steal!

I also wanted to share some photos of our meal:

CTA Travel Tech Lunch Menu

Above: CTA Travel Tech Lunch Menu

Shrimp Cocktail Appetizer

Above: Shrimp Cocktail Appetizer (shared by our table, I swear I didn't all that!)

Baby Kale Tricolore Salad

Above: Baby Kale Tricolore Salad

Sausage and Pepper Garlic Toast

Above: Sausage and Pepper Garlic Toast

Mediterranean Branzino, Pesto Rosso with Qi Tuscan Fries

Above: Mediterranean Branzino, Pesto Rosso with Qi Tuscan Fries (you know I usually go for the seafood/fish dish!

Above: Sometimes I am not fast enough to nab a shot before hungry Editors tear into something, but I oddly like this shot all the more for having some pieces missing!

Chocolate Coffee Malt Cannoli with Pistachio Gelato

Above: Chocolate Coffee Malt Cannoli with Pistachio Gelato

QI Signature Lemon Meringue Tart

Above: QI Signature Lemon Meringue Tart

MY TAKE:

These items are perfect for anyone on your list, and are going to score major brownie points with travel lovers and tech enthusiasts of any age. Again these are impressions as I got to play with these products at the event. Should I get review units I will give those items their own day in the sun with full reviews.

My photos are watermarked, un-watermarked photos were used by media with permission.

This is the second year I have attended this event, (the food is always amazing) just in case you missed last year's which focused heavily on Photography and Photography tips for getting better shots, check it out here: https://www.ascendingbutterfly.com/2017/10/techlicious-ctatech-ctaphotonyc-lunch.html

This by far has been the second worse year of my life, second only to almost dying in 2011. It zapped every ounce of writing energy out of me. Not to mention left me without a computer until Black Friday Sales enabled me to get a laptop. I am just not one of those bloggers who can blog solely via phone. I do not have millenial thumbs and have no idea how they can get so much typing done on a mobile touch keypad.

I am slowly but surely trying to get myself ramped up again.

And am considering either a re-design or a complete re-branding.

I do have some overdue giveaways so check back often.

For those of you who have sent me personal emails checking in on me, Thank You!

I know our Inspirational Messages of the Day and Gratitude Sundays have been missed, and I will find a way to bring them back soon. Let's just say getting myself motivated has been difficult enough lately.

This event put some great products on my radar, I definitely wouldn't mind seeing any or all of these under my Christmas Tree or stuffed inside my stocking this year.

Readers: Which of these do you want most? Do you already have any of them?

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

FTC Disclosure: No monetary compensation has been received, 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.