Don't forget it is Giant Pumpkin Weekend at New York Botanical Garden this weekend! Here is a Video Journey with major #Fall and #Pumpkin Vibes! #HalloweenWeekend @NYBG

This month, I have been sharing my experiences at the Kusama: Cosmic Nature exhibit at New York Botanical Garden, here is the link to my last post: http://www.ascendingbutterfly.com/2021/10/catch-kusama-cosmic-nature-at-new-york.html

and a fun one from 2017 that gives you more Halloween and Pumpkin Vibes: http://www.ascendingbutterfly.com/2017/10/check-out-giant-pumpkin-weekend-this.html

The artist, Yayoi Kusama utilizes polka dots to cover and conceal people, animals, the environment and pretty much everything around. She uses the polka dots as a metaphor of giving up identity, abolishing uniqueness, and becoming one with the universe-or "self-obliteration".

One of the most striking pieces on exhibit is called "Starry Pumpkin". A 2-meter tall sculpture whose surface is composed of a shimmering mosaic of blue and white squares that are neatly aligned in parallel rows, the iridescent blue tiles sparkle and gleam and give off colors fluctuating between shades of violet, emerald, and indigo according to the available light.

As I mentioned last week I have been using the On1 Raw 2022 Photo Editing Software program to breathe new life into my photos. Travel and Photography are my passion and while I am happy to spend hours editing one photo, I know most people don't have the patience for it and want an editing software that will allow them to achieve a desired look with ease and in much less time.

Last week I posted a picture of the sculpture "I want to fly to the Universe" this is the very first piece you see when entering the garden through the main entrance (this is assuming you don't veer off to go straight to the Enid Haupt Conservatory instead). I posted my original un-edited photo and then another using On1's AI which auto formats the photo for you.

I wanted to do the same this week focusing on the piece entitled Starry Pumpkin. I compiled the shots into a video so you could view them with more ease and a bit less scrolling. I take you through the sculpture as you first see it, hidden a bit behind the plants and flowers, then as you approach it and another from a third angle. I don't want you to think you are going nuts, you will see my original photo, then one where I use the AI and Noise Removal AI on each photo and a third photo of each angle using a preset called "Golden Autumn" - I stuck with preset 'G6' for all of these - and with the exception of one where I made minor edits to the final outcome of the preset - I wanted to give you an overview of this particular piece and one very happy 'accident'! On the final slide of the video slideshow of photos I use one of my photos to make a Halloween Card. I got nit picky and wanted to edit some of the blemishes on the pumpkins where I planned to place text, apparently a slip of my clumsy hands  and not paying attention to which tool was selected, turned some of the pumpkins a bit of a teal hue - it wasn't on purpose but I really liked the result and left it in!

Also 1 of 13 children have allergies, if you see a teal pumpkin when you are taking the kids trick-or-treating it means that home is offering allergy free options that are safe for children with allergies. I'm kind of glad I ended up with some teal pumpkins in the final edit.

NOTE: PRESS THE SQUARE ON THE LOWER RIGHT HAND OF THE VIDEO TO MAKE IT FULL SCREEN HD. (JUST HIT ESC KEY WHEN YOU ARE DONE AND YOU WILL COME BACK TO THE POST AUTOMATICALLY)

My Take:

Unfortunately with Covid very much still being a buzz 'kill' this exhibit didn't get the foot traffic or word of mouth it truly deserved, it was a feast for the eyes and it was fun seeing the art on exhibit in the library as well. I even met a 'camera twin' - in this age of every photo being taken on a cellphone I am always excited to see a photographer shooting with a DSLR. I met one shooting with my same exact camera (Nikon) and someone shooting with my former camera (Canon) although I hesitate a bit to say former because I still like shooting with it, it is just a bit heavy for me these days.

I wish my surgeries this summer and one this fall didn't keep me from seeing the exhibit sooner.

This is Giant Pumpkin Weekend at the New York Botanical Garden - so if your Instagram feed needs a pop of fall color and pumpkin goodness (no not just a photo of your pumpkin spice latte) then you need to hit up the Garden this weekend. And even though I didn't snap any pictures of  them (because not cool), I love seeing families taking photos of their babies with the pumpkins!

I am not the greatest with step-by-step tutorials, but I am trying to get better at it. However, I will tell you something very contrary to popular photographer opinion: "The AUTO Setting on your DSLR camera is NOT the devil". Not everyone has the luxury of setting up every shot they take, not all public spaces are easy to navigate with a tripod or don't allow them, not to mention carry full on lighting. While I am trying to get better at memorizing exposure speeds and shuffling quickly to get the light right, I want you to know getting a photo that means something to you is getting what I call 'life' from it - yes even from plants or flowers. Your technical skills can be on point but if you don't have an eye for it, they won't take you very far. And Photo Editing software is your friend. It's obviously more complex than your social filters, but I found On1's AI gives you the feeling of using a filter but with richer results with more detail and depth.

By all means continue to improve your skills, but there is nothing wrong with the Auto setting and post processing either! ;)

And stay tuned Butterflies, your chance to win your own copy of On1 Raw 2022 Photo Editing Software is coming up very soon! This year my Holiday Buying Guide will be focused on thoughtful gifts for (aspiring or pro) Photographers!  Get your photo on!

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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a compensated post. All opinions are 100% my own! I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure. On1 Photo Editing software and passes to the exhibit were provided for Editorial Purposes but no monetary compensation has been received.

Catch Kusama: Cosmic Nature at the New York Botanical Garden + Giant Pumpkin Weekend at @NYBG THIS WEEKEND!

On a super cloudy and overcast day I finally got the opportunity to check out the Kusama: Cosmic Nature exhibit at New York Botanical Garden. I had been wanting to catch this exhibit all summer, but with a surgery early in the summer and some smaller procedures following, I needed time to heal.

Description: Contemporary Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama is one of the most popular artists in the world, drawing millions to experience her immersive installations.

Exclusively at NYBG, Kusama reveals her lifelong fascination with the natural world, beginning with her childhood spent in the greenhouses and fields of her family’s seed nursery. Her artistic concepts of obliteration, infinity, and eternity are inspired by her intimate engagement with the colors, patterns, and life cycles of plants and flowers.

My apologies to my local readers, as this post is normally accompanied by a ticket giveaway, I will work on something hopefully for the holidays. I am ramping up slowly and working on some fun surprises for our annual holiday gift guide which will have some gift suggestions that are sure to please!

The interconnectedness of things is a theme explored in this exhibit, and I was first greeted by this installation: I want to fly to the Universe (I took tons of photos as usual, but I plan to space them out!)

ABOVE: Original, un-edited Photo, I want to fly to the Universe by Yayoi Kusama, October 2021 taken at New York Botanical Garden. Photo Credit: Tracy Iglesias

I am partnering with a very unique Photo Editing Software this year (hint, hint - stay tuned for something fun for YOU very soon!) I am testing out the software and after photo editing this shot, I was able to add some brightness and make the photo appear less overcast.

ABOVE: Same Photo edited using On1 HDR 2021 software

The enhancements are slight but make a world of difference, especially on the tree on the right hand side. My blog template is a little weird, so feel free to press on each photo individually to make them larger, you can hit escape to get back the article after you have viewed the photos. My template accepts JPEG photos so I have to convert the RAW files. I find the RAW files show more detail, but you can see the difference that the Photo Editing Software On1 made with this photo. (I will feature more photos from this exhibit counting down to Halloween). 

If you hit the New York Botanical Garden THIS weekend, you would get a chance to enjoy final days of the Kusama: Cosmic Nature Exhibit and also Giant Pumpkin Weekend. It would literally provide all the fun photo opp goodness you need in your social feed life right now! Here is me dorking out the last time I visited during Giant Pumpkin Weekend, check out this post HERE. (I was so focused on catching the different elements of this exhibit and the Farmers Market that I forgot to visit the Pumpkin Patch while I was there!)

NOTE: You must provide proof of vaccination along with your tickets upon entry. For a completely contactless experience have your app with proof of vaccination (yes you can show the actual card too but the app saves you time checking in and provides a more 'contactless' experience) and have your tickets handy on your phone also ready to be scanned. You will be given a time to visit the Kusama exhibit which means you won't have to worry about too many people around you, which I have to secretly admit I greatly appreciated! I also was asked to show my tickets to the exhibit to enter the gift shop so please note that just in case so you are not caught off guard.

Readers Sound Off: If you are visiting this weekend, please tag me on Twitter or on Instagram so I can see your cool photos! (@Ascending1 on both Twitter and Instagram and also use the Garden Hashtags and tag them as well @NYBG) Which photo above did you like best, the raw un-retouched version or the one I edited using On1? Also, what Photo Editing software are you using? (Did you know you can utilize On1 on both your computer and your phone, both Apple and Android? and the latest version also plays nicely with software you may already be using like Lightroom or Corel - for full disclosure I use multiple software!)

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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a compensated post. All opinions are 100% my own! I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure. On1 Photo Editing software and passes to the exhibit were provided for Editorial Purposes but no compensation has been received.

Guess who is finally on linktr.ee? Keep up with all things @Ascending1 (Ascending Butterfly) via @Linktree_ #MakingMovesMonday

I finally created a Linktr.ee for Ascending Butterfly!

I like that Linktr.ee organizes all your links in one place, and if you have an event you can add it to your Linktr.ee and it makes easier to highlight, the PRO version of course gives you more benefits, but what is included in the free version is a great place to start. I opted for the free version to start. Once I see how frequently I actually use it I will have an idea whether or not I actually need to upgrade to the Pro version.

I used my photo editing software to merge the URL into the page a bit so it looks slightly different when you actually load the page:

Ascending Butterfly Linktr.ee Profile

If you are currently in the job market you will notice that applications tend to ask for your LinkedIn Profile if you are applying via LinkedIn and your URL. If you don't have a specific portfolio website, this is a perfect substitute for that as it keeps all your URL's in one place that highlight your work and your social. and you can put your LinkedIn profile address as one of the URL's which saves you time on your online job applications. Also, if you use the free version you don't have to worry about the expense of paying monthly site fees just for a resume/portfolio site. And the pro version allows you to password protect it, but that does have a monthly fee, as of the time this post goes live is $6 USD/Month.

Question: Does anyone that has the Pro version know how you use it to accept payments and how that process works?

By the way, this is NOT a sponsored post. When a brand sponsors a post I always let you know!

Readers Sound Off: How many social profiles do you have in total? If you created your own Linktr.ee link how many URL's would you add?

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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a compensated post, all opinions are 100% my own! I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway & Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure. Things that lure this butterfly out of her cocoon: Technology, Travel, Fashion, Beauty, Spirits (Sparkling, Champagne, Prosecco, Sake, Bourbon, Tequila, Craft Brews), and Foodie Fun - really, I'm such a *simple girl*.

Friday Funny: The Hello October Meme that breaks the internet every year! #FridayVibes #FridayMood #FridayHumor #Meme

As a horror movie fanatic, this meme never fails to make me laugh:

I am so happy Fall is here! Leaves are changing color, it's not too hot or cold during the day, cozy sweaters are coming out of storage and soon I will have all the excuses to put on cute booties and boots! While I was born in April and technically am a "Spring Baby" - Fall is definitely my favorite season!

Hopefully you will be greeting October with a giggle after having viewed this silly meme!

Readers Sound Off: What are your Fall Plans? What is your Favorite Horror Movie? (I still have all my original - now probably considered 'vintage' Freddy Kreuger Posters!)

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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a compensated post, all opinions are 100% my own! I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway & Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure. Things that lure this butterfly out of her cocoon: Technology, Travel, Fashion, Beauty, Spirits (Sparkling, Champagne, Prosecco, Sake, Bourbon, Tequila, Craft Brews), and Foodie Fun - really, I'm such a *simple girl*.

It's Certificate City up in here! Check out my shiny new Certificate of Completion from @FacebookElevate #NotSponsored

I am following my Certificate in Women's Entrepreneurship from Cornell University with a study program in Digital Marketing from Facebook Elevate! They are currently offering scholarships for their Digital Marketing Certificate for students of color who identify as Black or LatinX, I applied and got accepted.

I just finished one of the modules today and got a Certificate of Completion: "Get Started With Marketing on Facebook"

While I am not new to Facebook or using Facebook for Business, I am aware that in the Digital Marketing Space things change rather quickly and I decided keeping up with my studies is the best way to stay on course. Not to mention all these certifications are going to be wonderful for my LinkedIn profile as well.

I am also trying to keep my study chops sharp while awaiting a decision on an MBA program I applied to.

This year I decided if I couldn't go out I was still going to find ways to stretch and grow and take big leaps of faith.

I have put off my MBA for far too long. It feels like it's time. So please send some good vibes my way!

Readers Sound Off: What big project are you working on this year? No project too big or too small, from home renovations to learning a new language.

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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a compensated post, all opinions are 100% my own! . I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway & Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure. Things that lure this butterfly out of her cocoon: Technology, Travel, Fashion, Beauty, Spirits (Sparkling, Champagne, Prosecco, Sake, Bourbon, Craft Brews), Foodie Fun - really I'm such a *simple girl*.

Back with another (Not So) #WordlessWednesday What I told myself I'd master this summer, and what I actually did instead!

Despite being home recovering from surgery this summer feels like it has literally flown by! 

This year I signed up for a Certificate Program in Women's Entrepreneurship from Cornell University. I finished six months ahead of schedule, I was supposed to complete the program by January 2022. But since I was stuck at home anyway I applied myself and finished ahead of schedule. 

NOT SPONSORED: If you'd like to learn more about the program and get info on how to apply, you can visit: Bank of America Institute for Women's Entrepreneurship at Cornell

The program was fun and challenging and has given me the impetus to want to continue and yesterday I had an interview with an Admissions Recruiter for an MBA program! 

I also applied for an Elevate Scholarship to study Digital Marketing Skills and was accepted! This year is going to be filled with learning and academic achievement! 

I thought this week for my (Not So) Wordless Wednesday I would share my Certificate of Completion!

What have you been up to this summer? 

Feel free to share in a comment here, or tag us on our social channels: 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/Ascending1 or https://www.twitter.com/Tracy_Iglesias 

Instagram: https://www.instragram.com/Ascending1 

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Ascending1 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AscendingButterfly

I had vowed I would spend this summer trying to spend some time on both Clubhouse and TikTok to figure them both out and perhaps start posting content this summer, but so far I'm still lurking! If you are on either channel and have tips/advice I would greatly appreciate it, so please do share!

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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a compensated post, all opinions are 100% my own! . I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway & Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure. Things that lure this butterfly out of her cocoon: Technology, Travel, Fashion, Beauty, Spirits (Sparkling, Champagne, Prosecco, Sake, Bourbon, Craft Brews), Foodie Fun - really I'm such a *simple girl*.

Spadaro House of Fragrances is my pick for National Fragrance Week! #NationalFragranceWeek

Kim Spadaro - BeautyPress Spotlight Day 2014, Photo Credit: Tracy Iglesias

I was originally introduced to Spadaro House of Fragrances in 2014 at a Beauty Press Spotlight Day event. Press the link to read my original introduction to the brand. (The photo above is from BeautyPress Spotlight Day 2014, I was right on time with this shot with the sunlight shining in from the window!)

Beauty Press Spotlight Day was a well curated event that brought the best of skincare, cosmetics, fragrance and more in one place and invited Editors/Bloggers/Influencers to learn more about each brand up close and personal, and in many cases I had the pleasure of interviewing the Founders of each brand.

With it being National Fragrance Week, I just had to be sure that Spadaro House of Fragrances was on your radar.

I honestly haven't met a scent in her line I didn't fall in love with. I had a chance to sniff the bulk of her line at that specific event, but there is a recent scent that I just had to try and that I really want to put on your radar!

The Founder, Kim Spadaro is a literal dynamo in every sense of the word. She credits her mom for encouraging her creativity, and her fragrances are inspired her world travels. She donates a portion of her proceeds to the The Spadaro Foundation which was created as a tribute to Kim's mom wo passed away on 01/11/11. You can hear her speak on it via realTV films Kim Spadaro Interview on The Spadaro Foundation via RealTV Films Youtube.

With our world in flux right now and travel still off limits I personally am turning to the things that 'transport' me - and for me those things include books, fragrances, music and photography!

I love changing up scents seasonally, I can't say I follow the advice out there about matching the fragrance notes that best represent the season, but I normally would just hit a beauty counter and see what resonated. That's definitely not an option for me right now.

Just before NYC went on lockdown I had a mini makeover at Sephora to get me ready for a networking event - and I now wonder when the next time will be that I get to indulge in playing with makeup and sampling scents at a Beauty Counter due to Covid concerns. (Which by the way I was finally able to get the first of the two Vaccines this weekend, been talking about it on Facebook!)

I had the opportunity to try Kasmaran Privé, and I just had to put this entirely unisex luxury scent on your radar!

I have spent a lifetime blending scents to make something that felt like me and I remember clearly when CK One came out, it was OK, but I wore mostly men's cologne's when I was younger, and that is still where my nose gets attracted to, but I've widened up my variety of women's perfumes quite a bit since my teen years.

It was via a random online discussion on Facebook that I was able to re-connect with Kim, I mentioned that one of my all time favorite scent's was CASMIR by Chopard, and she let me know about her new scent Kasmaran.

Kasmaran Privé is a Spadaro Luxury Fragrance (inspired by Bali) that truly blew me away! It truly exceeded my expectations. If you notice you haven't seen very many ode to perfumes posts here and most of you know why - when it comes to lipstick and scent I rarely wear them straight out the tube/bottle - I do a little alchemy to make them more uniquely me. And I started doing so as a teen. Oddly enough if you read the About section on the Spadaro House of Fragrances website, Kim her sister and her mom would experiment with essential oils, herbs and floral essences picked from their home garden. I absolutely love that we have that in common. (not to mention love of travel!)

 "Kasmaran...the scent of the exotic Indonesian island of Bali. Bali, the mysterious Island of the Gods and a Thousand Temples, is a distant and exotic world that was instantly captures and the inspiration behind the Kasmaran fragrance. Explorations through magnificent gardens, coastal rich mountainous land and bucolic scenery were focal points of admiration. The Balinese people captivate with their warm hospitality, peaceful prayers and sacred offerings which became the inspiration for the mystic scent of Kasmaran" ~ Kim Spadaro, Perfumer 

When I tell you I am wearing something that I didn't feel the need to change or customize, it is the highest praise I can possibly give.

My Take: This versatile and unisex scent gives me just the right warmth (Indonesian Musk Pepper) and for me has been the scent that got Oud right - not so overwhelming that you can't detect other notes, but it definitely doesn't get lost either, you know it's there but it's not clawing at you. It is warm, sensual and evocative in all the right ways. I am happy with how long it lasts on me (scents usually dissipate on me right away) and I get a TON of compliments while wearing this one from both men and women! It's a bit chameleon like, men are drawn to it because it's familiar to them, but women still smell feminine wearing it (I attribute it to the powdery notes). This one is a winner and you won't regret taking the chance!

Notes: Agarwood (Oud), Musk, Indonesian Pepper, Coriander, Frangipani, Vanilla, Lemongrass and Exotic Spices.

While writing this, I simultaneously wrote my very first review on Fragrantica so their users would know this fragrance is one they should take a chance on. Online reviews are becoming so much more important as we don't really have the ability to try before we buy like we used to.

The packaging is completely stand out, and if you are thinking of gifts for any upcoming special occasion, Mothers Day, Grads and yes Dads, 60% of Spadaro Fragrance customers are MALE, this would be an amazing gift. A gift that will transport their senses each and every time they wear it.

For me scents that give me an incense vibe in some way are always a favorite of mine, they literally feel like they are taking away negative energy and clearing the atmosphere of both myself and my home. And always remember spray slightly above you and in front of you and walk through the scent mist. I also like to spray just a touch on my hairbrush liner and let it dry and then put the liner on my brush. It kisses your hair with scent. Do you know why they tell you this at the beauty counter? Perfume over time can be very drying to your skin where you apply it and can cause wrinkles to appear, so put the scented lotion on your skin to keep it moist and wrinkle free and spray a mist that you walk into to preserve the youthful appearance of your skin. (and spray in an open area, not over your wooden dresser, you don't want to mar your wood by doing this).

While I have been doing this all along since Ascending Butterfly's inception in 2008, I have been trying my best this year to spend more focus on women and minority owned brands. It feels more important now than ever.

I can tell you that social distancing has been an instant and immediate reminder to all of us that home and self-care are critical now more than ever. While I know everyone wants you to 'Kondo' and make more space and organize and toss everything, I am here with a different message - take that extra long hot bath,(trust me the dishes, the kids, the spouse, the pets, the Netflix can all wait a few more minutes), spray the perfume (the one you hide from yourself that you only use on date night or girls night out), experiment with your makeup, not because of zoom meetings or skype calls or facetime, use the pretty lingerie (yes even if you are like me currently single), paint your nails, do the face mask for no other reason at all but that you are worth it. All your pretty things that you worked so hard to acquire? Spend time enjoying them all. But if you are in toss mode because it's spring, please try to donate what is in good condition instead of just tossing.

I hope this National Fragrance Week Post not only puts an amazing scent, Kasmaran on your radar, but that it inspires you to focus on what makes you feel good about yourself, what brings out your confidence and femininity. Perfume and my signature red lip are like a cape to a super hero. Once they are on, I am in the zone and ready to take on the world.

Let's keep lifting each other up, and be sure that it doesn't stop when the world 'opens up' again. Let's look out for one another everyday!

Readers Sound Off: Leave us a comment with your favorite/signature scent! Is it one scent or do you layer a few to get something a bit more personal to you?

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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a compensated post, all opinions are 100% my own! I received a Press Mailing that did include the Fragrance. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway & Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure. Things that lure this butterfly out of her cocoon: Technology, Travel, Fashion, Beauty, Spirits (Sparkling, Champagne, Prosecco, Sake, Bourbon, Craft Brews), Foodie Fun - really I'm such a *simple girl*.

Happy Women's History Month and a Deal at #Amazon you should not miss!

Happy Women's History Month Butterflies!

Some fun ways to honor the women in your life:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Video Interview - Write a series of questions and video your mother, grandmother, aunts, cousins, sisters giving you their answers. It's a fun way to get to know them better and an amazing memory of them to have and pass down.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Spa night at home - have a spa night at home - manis, pedis, face masks, and a nice glass of wine of course!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Call - Last suggestion ties in with the 'steal' I teased about in the subject of this post. If this Global Pandemic has taught us anything, it's taught us that what matters most is the health and wellbeing of those we love. If you want a fun way to keep everyone connected invest in a Amazon Echo Show Device - it's one of the easiest ways to make a video call with friends and family - and the Alexa your trusty personal assistant can do a whole bunch of fun stuff including games making a virtual game night with family and friends that much more fun.

Amazon is currently knocking off $100 if you buy two Echo Show 10 (3rd Generation) Devices! (These are also perfect to nab now if you need gifts for the major gifting opportunities around the corner: Mother's Day in May, Father's Day in June, or for a June Grad - they may be about to spread their wings, but this gift will let them stay connected to the ones they love.)

Use the code: SHOW102PACK when you buy 2 Amazon Echo Show devices and you will get $100 off!

I ordered the Amazon Echo Show 5 in early February, it actually took awhile to arrive, so I just started playing with mine. Had I known the bigger one was going on sale so soon I would have waited and nabbed this deal instead! Did you know you could push pictures and music to someone's show? I just found this out and I am totally obsessed! Is there a song that reminds of you someone, send that song to their show device, did you scan an old photo of you and your friends and family? Send a copy right to their Echo Show so they can share in the nostalgia too! Don't you just love that as a gift idea, it literally fits anyone in your life perfectly?

Remember most deals are a limited time only, so grab this one while it's HOT:

Readers: What Woman Do You Admire Most and How Do You Plan to Honor Her During Women's History Month?

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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a compensated post, all opinions are 100% my own! I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway & Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure. Things that lure this butterfly out of her cocoon: Technology, Travel, Fashion, Beauty, Spirits (Sparkling, Champagne, Prosecco, Sake, Bourbon, Craft Brews), Foodie Fun - really I'm such a *simple girl*.

{Digital Conference Alert} I am attending #SmashboxJefaCon THIS Saturday - find out how you can too! Tag a fellow #Beauty #Boss #Babe and #BFF

 

There are three conferences annually that I have always made it a point to attend, one happened well before Covid so it wasn't affected (waiting to find out what will happen for 2021) the other was cancelled and the third happened digitally, which was PhotoPlus Expo (I am still catching up on sessions so I will recap it once I'm caught up - and can figure out a way to take that massive amount of info and make it concise).

I am attending a Digital Conference this Saturday that I felt it very important to put on your radar! (And HURRY because General Admission is only $25!)

BACKGROUND ON SMASHBOX JEFACON:

The Latinx community, fueled by an inherent entrepreneurial spirit, have been leading the charge in new business development. Hispanic-owned businesses rose at a 40% growth rate from 2012 – 2018 (more than 2x the national average), despite the fact that the Latinx community has faced a funding ceiling that hinders entrepreneurship in the U.S.

It was this spirit that inspired the Smashbox North America team, led by Kimberly Villatoro, Vice President, North America Marketing at Smashbox Cosmetics to leverage their resources to create change. Personally and professionally, Villatoro felt moved to gather resources and create a game-changing program.

Jefacon, a multifaceted collaboration platform that empowers women to recognize their inner boss. Inspired by “jefa”, the Spanish word for “boss,” Smashbox Jefacon celebrates the immense power of all women and honors the numerous interpretations of the jefa mindset.

“Smashbox embodies the hustle. As one of Los Angeles’ original indie beauty brands, we know what it takes to build something from nothing. So do our two incredible collaborators, Beauty industry moguls Julissa Prado, CEO and Founder of Rizos Curls, and Patty Delgado, Founder and designer of Hija de tu Madre, have partnered with Smashbox in a double on-and-off-line initiative to help other Latinas connect with their inner jefas and inspire them to act on their goals, dreams and business ideas.” says Villatoro. “Together we will use our voice and amplification power to inspire and empower the women who define history, beauty and evolution.”

With a clear vision, the Smashbox team set out to find partners who embody the hustle. Villatoro and fellow Latina powerhouse colleague Courtney Childress (Smashbox Executive Director, Global Product Marketing) zoned in on Delgado and Prado after discovering they had both been following their entrepreneurial journeys.

OTHER SPEAKERS INCLUDE:

• Karla Martinez de Salas, Vogue Mexico Editor in Chief will discuss "how to find your most empowering and personal style"

• Ana Flores, We All Grow Latina Founder will discuss "sharing ways of decoding and manifesting your vision" (Ana and We All Grow Latina have been featured on our pages before, she is incredibly inspiring! 

• If you are a We All Grow Member, (if you are not you can join for free) - check out this Instagram post to find out how members can access this conference free of charge here!) You should also check out her Hear Us, See Us Panel sponsored by Comcast, it's on YouTube (FREE!) here: Hear Us, See Us - YouTube)

• Alexandra Garcia, Google, Program Manager, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion will discuss "how to find your "jefa" story" (a workshop focused on storytelling skills).

• Lilliana Vazquez, Carmen Rita Wong, Janet Jones Veloso, Dulce Candy and many more from the global community of Jefas!

ANOTHER COOL WAY TO GET YOUR VIRTUAL TICKET:

SMASHBOX X HIJA DE TU MADRE BEAUTY BOX

Inspired by Patty’s jefa mood: Muy Bossy. Exclusively available at HijaDeTuMadre.com and Smashbox.com, the kit will include Patty’s favorite Smashbox items to create her versatile bossy bold look.

Smashbox x Hija de tu Madre Makeup Kit will include: ($98 retail, $190+ value)

• Always On Liquid Lipstick in Bang Bang
• LA Lights Blendable Lip & Cheek Color in the shade Silverlake Sunset
• Full Exposure Mascara
• The Original Photo Finish Smooth & Blur Primer (Travel Size)
• “Hello, My Name is La Jefa” Tote Bag
• Limited Edition Hija de tu Madre Sticker Sheet & Jefa Mirror Decals
• Virtual ticket to Smashbox Jefacon on 12/5

SMASHBOX X RIZOS CURLS BEAUTY BOX

Inspired by Julissa’s ultimate jefa mood: Glow Getter. Available at RizosCurls.com and Smashbox.com, the kit will include Julissa’s favorite Smashbox items to create her signature bronze, dewy, glow-getter look.

Smashbox x Rizos Curls Makeup Kit will include: ($98 retail, $200 value)

• Photo Finish Vitamin Glow Primer
• Halo Glow Highlighter Duo in Golden Bronze
• Cali Contour Palette in Light/Medium
• Gloss Angeles Lip Gloss in Michelada
• “Hello, My Name is La Jefa” Tote Bag
• Limited Edition Jefa Inspiration Guide
• $10 Rizos Curls Gift Card
• Virtual Ticket to Smashbox Jefacon on 12/5

MY TAKE:

I know so many people are feeling 'boxed in' with so much being closed off to us this year, but please don't overlook Digital Conferences. Digital Conferences keep you connected not just to your current industry, but to your passions too.

Expand your horizons, your passion projects, your dreams, the smart way - don't attempt to re-invent the wheel - it's been done. But you can listen to podcasts, watch as many digital conferences as you can and listen to speakers who are generously sharing their journey with you. Their mistakes don't have to be yours and their triumphs shared can be your inspiration.

If you are attending the conference & decide to share power quotes that resonate with you, don't forget to use the conference hashtag: #SmashboxJefaCon

READERS SOUND OFF: Do you want to be your own boss? Do you have a Jefa/boss mindset? What was your favorite Digital Conference this year? Which ones do you want to attend next year?

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FTC Disclosure: I will be covering this conference as Digital Press. This is NOT a compensated post, all opinions are 100% my own! I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway & Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure. Things that lure this butterfly out of her cocoon: Technology, Travel, Fashion, Beauty, Spirits (Sparkling, Champagne, Prosecco, Sake, Bourbon, Craft Brews), Foodie Fun - really I'm such a *simple girl*.

11:11 Are you Paying Attention to the Guidance From The Universe?

Today is November 11th!

There is so much lore surrounding 11:11 It is said that if you look at a clock at exactly 11:11 and have not checked the time before 11:00, then you can make a wish (am or pm). Once you make your wish, you are supposed to look away from the clock immediately, because your wish will not come true if you see the time change to 11:12. (Who knew wishes were so complex?)

It is also said that seeing this number is a sign that you are in the flow and things are aligning for you perfectly. 

Others believe 11:11 is a bit of a portal day where the alignment between our realm and the next align. Many believe if you pay attention that you will receive signs from those you love who has passed on to let you know they are watching and are with you. Anything from seeing a penny on the ground, spotting a butterfly, hearing a song that reminds of you that person etc.

I for one see a different number all the time: 222 - I see it night and day on the clock, sometimes it is the number of a bus or a train car,  I even see it as the number of comments on a social media post. It has a different meaning, which I have already discussed.

But in general repeating numbers are often seen as messages: whether you feel they are from the Universe, or your angels that is totally up to you.

Making a wish today certainly would be a great way to speak your desires and wants into existence. A great first step into making them come true.

Today is also Veteran's Day, be sure to thank our Military Members (both active and retired for their service today!)

Readers Sound Off: Do you see recurring numbers?

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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a compensated post, all opinions are 100% my own! I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway & Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure. Things that lure this butterfly out of her cocoon: Technology, Travel, Fashion, Beauty, Spirits (Sparkling, Champagne, Prosecco, Sake, Bourbon, Craft Brews), Foodie Fun - really I'm such a *simple girl*.

{JUNE 23} New York state primary elections are TODAY! Please don't forget to ROCK THE VOTE!

This is just a reminder for my fellow New York City/State Butterflies, that today, Tuesday, June 23, 2020 is our primary elections.

If you haven't already placed your votes by absentee ballot, then be sure to hit the polls today and cast your vote!

For all those who are Tik Tok inclined, the only challenges I want to see today are the Rock the Vote challenges, make up a 'going to the polls dance', put on your mask and gloves and get out there!

If you could endanger your lives and everyone else's to hit the beach or eat at a restaurant, then you can do it to vote today!

REMEMBER:

**This is NOT a Sponsored Post**