Saturday, November 27, 2010

Luxury Pillow System (ARV $99) Giveaway! 2 Winners! Ends 12/04

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This giveaway is now CLOSED. Thanks so much to our wonderful sponsor Protect-A-Bed! We look forward to working with you again! The winners are 'Ardy22' and 'AMWeeks'. Remember: There are great giveaways active on the upper right hand side of the page!
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Ascending Butterfly Holidays Buying Guide 2010, Sixth Giveaway sponsored by:



You are probably somewhere in the middle of a leftovers coma, exhausted from shopping, cleaning, decorating, hosting and entertaining. You probably just want to crash. But your mind isn't turning off at night and you toss and turn and fight with your pillow. Yet that never seems to happen when you are on vacation at that luxury five star resort. Are their pillows filled 'magic fluff'? Probably Not, but they are a lot different from the ones you are currently using!

I'm a bit of an insomniac and as a result often-times fight with my pillows. I went through a long period of sleepless nights where I swore if I just could find that magic pillow my sleep would just happen instantly and become better, more profound, somehow more...perfect.

I've learned the hard way that while the wrong pillow does indeed have a lot to do with lack of rest, my night habits before bed could use some improvement too. My bad pre-bed habits will probably take longer to change than adapting to this new pillow system will!

About The Luxury Pillow System

A revolutionary new pillow system featuring Tencel®, the new age fiber better than cotton. The Luxury Pillow System is supersoft and fully adjustable to your own comfort level, while providing ultimate stain, allergy and dust mite protection.

This Luxury Pillow contains extra, specially developed, microfiber filling which makes the pillow supersoft and fluffy. Each Luxury Pillow also has a unique zipper closure which allows you to adjust the amount of inner filling. By removing some of the filling, the pillow can be adjusted to exactly the right balance of height and firmness to suit individual preferences. A luxury pillow - luxury sleep.
First and foremost what I appreciate is the microfiber filling. I am allergic to down, which removes a ton of pillow and jacket options from my life. And for many years it also felt like I had to sacrifice comfort due to my down allergies. I truly missed my Down Pillows from when I was younger, UNTIL NOW. I am super happy to have the comfort of down, without the wheezing and sneezing. My advice, sleep on it, AS IS for a full week before you add or remove the extra filling that comes with it. The first night you will probably be under the assumption that regardless of what it says your head is going to sink into the mattress anyway, it won't. If you are a heavy stomach sleeper you may end up wanting to actually remove a little of the filling. If you are a back sleeper, you will be delighted that your head and neck don't just sink. And if you are a pre-dominant side sleeper you will find it refreshing not to have pillow in your nose!

About Protect-A-Bed’s® Luxury Pillow Protector

Protect-A-Bed’s Luxury Pillow Protector has a natural Tencel® surface which has a soft and silky feel, is hypoallergenic and antibacterial. The product also features the innovative Miracle Membrane® that provides a barrier for the pillow and the user to protect against allergens, dust mites and spills. Protect-A-Bed's® all new Breathe-A-Vent (patent pendling) ensures added comfort by allowing your pillow to breathe.
Again, because of my allergies, I'm very grateful for the Protector serving as a barrier to protect my pillow and my sleep! The fact that the protector still allows the pillow to 'breath' is very important. It allows it to also remain cool, so that you are not seeking out a cool spot even while sleeping which will allow for a much more profound rest.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - WIN IT! - Ascending Butterfly and Protect-A-Bed, would like to provide 2 Ascending Butterfly Followers with a Luxury Pillow System!


 Protect-A-Bed® Luxury Pillow System contains:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 1 Standard Luxury Pillow
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 1 Standard Luxury Pillow Protector

Don't you just ♥ Protect-A-Bed? I know I do!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - How to Win: (1) You must be a PUBLIC follower of Ascending Butterfly to be eligible for this and all giveaways. Indicate in your entry that you follow (if your 'comment name/user id' differs from your profile id, please let me know what name you follow under) and Mandatory Entry: 2) Visit Protect-A-Bed and link us to another fab item you like, just remember it can't be the review item! (3) You must also leave your email address somewhere in your comment. (You can format it this way for security, example: ascendingbutterfly AT mail host DOT com). (If your email is clearly visible in your profile, you can just say so, that's OK!) Please follow the easy 1, 2, 3 steps to winning (or in this case, the A,B,C’s of winning!) This giveaway is open to USA residents who are 18 years of age or older. No PO Boxes.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Please follow directions or you will be disqualified! All comments are moderated, they may not appear on the site right away (comments like "I want this" or "I want to win" will not be entered). You have from Saturday, November 27, 2010 until Saturday, December 04, 2010 at 03:00 PM (EST) to comment and be entered for a chance to win. You will have 48 hours to confirm if we do not hear from you we will be forced to move on to an alternate. (We only notify winners DIRECTLY via email, so if your profile or your comment does not have an email your entry will not be processed)

EXTRA CREDIT:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Blog about this giveaway, linking to this giveaway post. Leave the URL in a comment. (If your blog post contains more than just a pic and link you'll get 5 extra credit entries!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - In the spirit of Christmas fun, how about an extra credit for sharing your night before christmas ritual (if you don't celebrate Christmas, share your favorite New Years Eve ritual)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Grab our Button and put it on your Blog. Leave the URL where we can see it in a comment (if you already have our button, just let us know, you will still get extra credit!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow @Tracy_Iglesias on Twitter (this is ascendingbutterfly’s editor) and give me your twitter ID in a comment

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Tweet this:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ #ascendingbutterfly + @Protect_A_Bed Luxury Pillow System (ARV $99) #Giveaway Ends 12/04 - http://tinyurl.com/28mb7gy

(Leave a comment with the tweet’s url so you can get a valid entry (click on the time your tweet was sent to get the direct URL and then copy and paste it here). You can Tweet TWICE per DAY. If you Tweet more than that, that entry will be disqualified.)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow @Protect_A_Bed on Twitter

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Digg about this giveaway and leave your digg username in your comment

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Fave this blog on Technorati and leave your Technorati user name in your comment

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow Ascending Butterfly on Facebook HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Like Protect-A-Bed on Facebook (and remember to tell them 'Ascending Butterfly sent me') HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow Ascending Butterfly on Networked Blogs HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Join Ascending Butterfly's NEW Community/Real Time Chat, Group HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Vote for Ascending Butterfly on: Fuel My Blog

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Have you entered another giveaway on Ascending Butterfly? Let me know which one and you’ll get more extra credit!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Have you commented on a non-giveaway entry? Let me know which one here and you’ll get more extra credit!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - I could use your vote (please leave me your voting number in the comment field for an extra credit) - http://www.itsthoughtful.com/gift-idea/2758/

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Press the button below and join, you get an extra entry for this giveaway and a shot at more great prizes, lets win together! (one time extra credit, will be verified before entry can be accepted)


Thank you readers, because of your push, this giveaway was listed as a Prizey Pick! I hope you will do the same for all of our wonderful sponsors in this year's holiday buying guide! Ascending Butterfly readers ROCK!




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FTC Disclosure Info for this Giveaway: This is not a paid insertion. This is a non-compensated post and all opinions regarding the product and the sponsor are my own experiences. I was provided product to facilitate the review and giveaway. The sponsor is fulfilling directly to prize winner(s), this in no way influenced my opinion of the product. Once a winner is selected and their information has been forwarded to the sponsor, the responsibility of prize fulfillment rests with the sponsor.

Friday, November 26, 2010

Night Before Christmas Activity Kit Giveaway sponsored by RedEnvelope

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This giveaway is now CLOSED. Thanks so much to our wonderful sponsor RedEnvelope! We look forward to working with you again! The winner is 'GiantSis'. Remember: There are great giveaways active on the upper right hand side of the page!
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Ascending Butterfly Holidays Buying Guide 2010, Sixth Giveaway sponsored by:


What are your christmas family traditions? One of mine is putting up my tree during the Thanksgiving holiday weekend. This year of course, all my traditions were moved up, WAY up. I put up my tree earlier than usual this year because I needed time to field test it and write my review! New tree, new ornaments and now a new way to count down to Christmas with the little ones!

One of the most common traditions to prepare for Santa's arrival is with Milk and Cookies! Christmas Eve is usually a flurry of activity, and getting little ones to wind down and go to bed can sometimes be a challenge. Engaging the little ones with fun activities to prepare for Santa's arrival creates a tradition and memories that they will carry over with them when they get older and have families of their own.

One of my favorite signature gifts when there is a newborn in the family is the mobile for above the crib. I just found a new signature gift that I will be giving for baby's first christmas, it's Red Envelope's NEW Night Before Christmas Activity Kit. Red Envelope has been a go to for me for years for corporate gifts, I have both given and received many memorable gifts from Red Envelope! I have come to look to Red Envelope first for innovative, unique and well packaged gifts. This Kit is everything I've already come to expect from Red Envelope, it's uniquely presented, well packaged and just plain fun for kids of all ages as well as kids at heart.

I tried my best to wait until 12/24 but on my next shopping trip I am already going to have to replace the cookies and the cocoa so Santa won't notice! But Ssshh, don't tell anyone!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - WIN IT! - Ascending Butterfly and our friends at Red Envelope would like to provide 1 Ascending Butterfly Follower with a Night Before Christmas Activity Kit!


Night Before Christmas Activity Kit @RedEnvelope

The kit includes:


Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - ceramic plate for cookies for Santa – 8 ½” diameter

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - ceramic mug for cocoa - 11.5 ounces; approximately 4 ½” high x 5 1/4” wide with handle

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 6 Mrs. Field’s chocolate chip nibbler cookies

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 2 packets Mrs. Field’s cocoa mix (makes 2 mugs)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - poem of “The Night Before Christmas” by Clement Clarke Moore

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - “Reindeer Games” activity book that includes games and challenges with a holiday theme such as “Snowflake Match Game”, “Santa’s Secret”, and “Festive Football”

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - packaging: red gift box with ivory grosgrain ribbon

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ -“Instructions from Santa” attached to outside of box instructs the gift to be opened by Christmas Eve and to leave out cookies and cocoa for Santa

Don't you just ♥ Red Envelope? I know I do!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - How to Win: (1) You must be a PUBLIC follower of Ascending Butterfly to be eligible for this and all giveaways. Indicate in your entry that you follow (if your 'comment name/user id' differs from your profile id, please let me know what name you follow under) and Mandatory Entry: 2) Visit Red Envelope and link us to another fab item you like, remember it can't be the review item! (3) You must also leave your email address somewhere in your comment. (You can format it this way for security, example: ascendingbutterfly AT mail host DOT com). (If your email is clearly visible in your profile, you can just say so, that's OK!) Please follow the easy 1, 2, 3 steps to winning (or in this case, the A,B,C’s of winning!) This giveaway is open to USA residents who are 18 years of age or older. No PO Boxes.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Please follow directions or you will be disqualified! All comments are moderated, they may not appear on the site right away (comments like "I want this" or "I want to win" will not be entered). You have from Friday, November 26, 2010 until Thursday, December 02, 2010 at 03:00 PM (EST) to comment and be entered for a chance to win. You will have 48 hours to confirm if we do not hear from you we will be forced to move on to an alternate. (We only notify winners DIRECTLY via email, so if your profile or your comment does not have an email your entry will not be processed)

EXTRA CREDIT:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Blog about this giveaway, linking to this giveaway post. Leave the URL in a comment. (If your blog post contains more than just a pic and link you'll get 5 extra credit entries!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - In the spirit of Christmas fun, how about an extra credit for sharing your night before christmas ritual (if you don't celebrate Christmas, share your favorite New Years Eve ritual)?

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Grab our Button and put it on your Blog. Leave the URL where we can see it in a comment (if you already have our button, just let us know, you will still get extra credit!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow @Tracy_Iglesias on Twitter (this is ascendingbutterfly’s editor) and give me your twitter ID in a comment

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Tweet this:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ #ascendingbutterfly + @redenvelope Night Before Christmas Activity Kit #Giveaway! - http://tinyurl.com/25zzxcc

(Leave a comment with the tweet’s url so you can get a valid entry (click on the time your tweet was sent to get the direct URL and then copy and paste it here). You can Tweet TWICE per DAY. If you Tweet more than that, that entry will be disqualified.)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow @redenvelope on Twitter

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Digg about this giveaway and leave your digg username in your comment

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Fave this blog on Technorati and leave your Technorati user name in your comment

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow Ascending Butterfly on Facebook HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow RedEnvelope on Facebook (and remember to tell them 'Ascending Butterfly sent me') HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow Ascending Butterfly on Networked Blogs HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Join Ascending Butterfly's NEW Community/Real Time Chat, Group HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Vote for Ascending Butterfly on: Fuel My Blog

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Have you entered another giveaway on Ascending Butterfly? Let me know which one and you’ll get more extra credit!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Have you commented on a non-giveaway entry? Let me know which one here and you’ll get more extra credit!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - I could use your vote (please leave me your voting number in the comment field for an extra credit) - http://www.itsthoughtful.com/gift-idea/2758/

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Press the button below and join, you get an extra entry for this giveaway and a shot at more great prizes, lets win together! (one time extra credit, will be verified before entry can be accepted)


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FTC Disclosure Info for this Giveaway: This is not a paid insertion. This is a non-compensated post and all opinions regarding the product and the sponsor are my own experiences. I was provided product to facilitate the review and giveaway. The sponsor is fulfilling directly to prize winner(s), this in no way influenced my opinion of the product. Once a winner is selected and their information has been forwarded to the sponsor, the responsibility of prize fulfillment rests with the sponsor.

Thursday, November 25, 2010

Happy Thanksgiving! From 'Casa-de-Butterfly' to YOU!



Photo Credit: @Funscrape
From 'Casa-de-Butterfly' to you, wishing you an abundantly blessed Thanksgiving, filled with family, good friends, good food and much laughter. Our 'Giveaway-A-Day' Countdown to Christmas will return tomorrow.

In the meantime, I thought I'd share my recipe for a perfect Thanksgiving

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Give Thanks
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - EAT
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Dessert
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - TV
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - NAP
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - EAT
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Movie
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - NAP

And Repeat! =)



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Wednesday, November 24, 2010

Deals and Steals From Our Friends - Holiday shopping deals from Hayneedle, Elliott Lucca, The Sak, Luxor Linens and Fannie May!

While we are preparing today's giveaway in our prize-a-day countdown to Christmas, I thought I'd share some discounts and steals from some of our favorite friends! (And a new one too!)



http://www.hayneedle.com

Discount Codes:
SHOPEARLY or TD-6868: 11/24 – 11/29
NOLINES or XH-7843: 11/26 – 11/28
SWEETDEALS or JW-8589: 11/29 ONLY

The discount on all codes is as follows:

For orders > $200: $20 off
For orders > $500: $60 off
For orders > $900: $150 off

The following standard exemptions also apply -It will not work on the following sites:

· Binoculars
· Electric Grills Direct
· GrillsDirect
· OperaGlasses
· RadarBusters
· SimplyMicroscopes
· Spotting Scopes
· Telescopes

Or on the following brands:

· Bull
· Dimplex
· ET2
· Cram, Stellanova
· Howard Miller
· Kichler Lighting
· Maxim Lighting
· Murray Feiss
· Netshops Gift Certificates
· Patina
· Poly-Wood
· Corinthian Bells
· Replogle, Tom Torrens
· Ridgeway Clocks
· Sojoe
· National Geographic, Artline
· Teeter
· Classic Flame
· Weber, Ducane

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LuxorLinens.com

(If the name doesn't ring a bell now, it will very SOON, remember you do not want to miss a day in our countdown! Look for a special giveaway coming soon with Luxor Linens!)

Black Friday Deals include 50-80% off select items
Win Your Shopping Bag Sweepstakes! - 3 lucky winners daily have a chance to win their shopping bag, visit directly for full details on this fab promotion and again, watch here for their holiday giveaway with Ascending Butterfly!

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The Sak Brand Group NYC Holiday Sample Sale

When: Thursday, December 2nd 9:30-7 pm + Friday, December 3rd 9-2pm
Where: 339 5th Avenue, 2nd Floor (between 33rd and 34th)
Subway: 34th Street at Broadway– NRW, FV
212.329.4500

Bags range from $5-$60

Examples:

the sak Iris Crossbody was $79 is now $30
the sak Silverlake Bucket was $169 is now $40
the sak Kedize Duffle was $159 is now $40
Elliott Lucca Sintra Tote was $198 is now $60
Elliott Luca Granada Tote was $268 is now $60
Elliott Lucca Madrid Satchel was $218 is now $60
freeBird Tribed Saddlebag was $59 is now $22
freeBird Spirited Drawstring was $89 is now $22
freeBird Rainbow Large Shopper was $89 is now $22
Lina Cassady Medium Shopper was $49 is now $22
Lina Carina Large Satchel was $59 is now $22

American Express, Visa and Mastercard and Cash accepted; No checks

The Sak Brand Group SF Holiday Warehouse Sale

When: Thursday, December 2nd 3-6 pm  + Friday, December 3rd 3-7pm
Where: 211 Harrison St between 17th and Mariposa San Francisco, CA
Call 415.486.1326 for directions

Bags range from $5-$75
Cash & Credit ONLY

Look for a special giveaway coming soon with The Sak!

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http://www.fanniemay.com

Our Friends at Fannie May have a very special discount code that's good from 6 pm cst to midnight cst on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 25, 2010. The code is for 50% off sitewide on the fannie may site. Its a friends and family offer that they are extending to customers.

The promo code is 5050

Look for a special holiday themed giveaway with Fannie's Sister Site, 1800Baskets.com coming SOON!
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Tuesday, November 23, 2010

This Saturday is Small Business Saturday!



Thanks to American Express for sponsoring my writing today about small businesses.  American Express is presenting Small Business Saturday, a way to honor the local merchants who are the backbone of the economy, this Saturday, November 27.  They're offering statement credits to people who shop at small businesses, advertising for small-business owners, and donations to Girls Inc. for "Likes" of the Small Business Saturday page on Facebook.  Join the celebration by clicking the "Like" button and then visiting the Facebook page to learn more about the program and read the terms and conditions that apply.

You know just how much Ascending Butterfly loves companies who give back! I call it guilt free shopping, and it has to be the best type of shopping there is. It means knowing I spent smarter, and actually did SOMETHING with my money and my time!

First there was Black Friday, then Cyber Monday. This year, November 27th is the first ever Small Business Saturday, a day to support the local businesses that create jobs, boost the economy and preserve neighborhoods around the country. Small Business Saturday is a national movement to drive shoppers to local merchants across the U.S.

Small Business Saturday takes place November 27, 2010. AMEX is offering $25 statement credits to people who shop at small businesses, advertising for small-business owners, and donations to Girls Inc. for "Likes" of the Small Business Saturday page on Facebook. So by shopping at a small business you are doing something smart for YOU and helping Amex doing something great for girls! How awesome is that? 

I have always loved the term 'mom and pop shop' for small businesses. It always brought up images of a family working together side by side. Of businesses where you walk in, and are actually greeted by name. A place where you are certainly not another face and not just a dollar sign. A place you frequent because it feels so much like home.

I love that Amex is giving back to us for supporting small business! Communities need neighborhood stores, neighborhood stores care and should be supported. I love the fact that Amex wants to help spread the word by having us spotlight our favorite neighborhood small businesses. The ones that don't have a bottomless pocket when it comes to advertising, the businesses that are sometimes forced to stay open later and work longer hours to stay competitive.

My favorite local business is my local Beauty Parlor! For me finding a good Hairdresser is like finding a good Dentist, it's not easy, and it's something that you can't afford to do via the 'trial and error' method. You want to ensure you are putting yourself in the right hands the first time. You want to WANT to go back regularly.

And that's how I feel at United Skills, it's a Unisex Salon just north of a bustling shopping district. A district located near several well known City Landmarks, the Bronx Zoo and the New York Botanical Gardens! With several University and College Campus' nearby.

I found them when my hairdresser of over 10 years had a heart attack and sold his salon. I was devastated for sure, this was the hairdresser who did my hair for Prom, for my graduations, I knew all his family and he knew just how I liked my hair. I could literally fall asleep on the chair and wake up and know I'd be happy. That level of trust comes over time. I didn't think I'd be able to trust another hairdresser to know how to handle my finicky hair.

I tried several places in the hunt for a new hairdresser and just wasn't happy. And when I walked into United, everyone seemed to know everyone, and here I was a total stranger walking into a very high energy salon with lots of talking, laughing, loud music, I wasn't quite sure I'd fit in. Well that was over 7 years ago, and it's the only place I'll get my hair done now! (Speaking of which, I'm over due for a haircut!).

This is a great iniative and I would definitely encourage you to make sure you frequent a small business this weekend, whether it's a local salon, or other small business in your neighborhood, make sure that you don't get so swallowed up by post Thanksgiving Chain Store Sales that you forget about the small businesses. They need your holiday dollars too!

If you are ever in the area and want to try them out:

United Skills
2445 Walton Avenue
(off Fordham Road)
Bronx NY, 10468
(718) 329-2421

If you'd like to try my hairdresser, her name is Digna!

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I was selected for this sponsorship by the Clever Girls Collective, which endorses Blog With Integrity, as I do. I will be compensated $75 for my participation in this campaign. However I do prefer local shops and family run businesses, and it is my pleasure to help readers stay informed of ways they can shop smarter and benefit both themselves, and their communities! Way to Go American Express!

Monday, November 22, 2010

The Search For Santa Paws Blu-Ray/DVD Combo Pack Giveaway! Ends 11/28

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This giveaway is now CLOSED. Thanks so much to our wonderful sponsor Disney! We look forward to working with you again! The winner is 'Cheryl'. Remember: There are great giveaways active on the upper right hand side of the page!
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Ascending Butterfly Holidays Buying Guide 2010, Fifth Giveaway sponsored by:

Hits Stores 11/23/10! Image @Disney



Is there anything cuter than puppies and more fun than Christmas? Probably not, but imagine combining the two, and sprinkling in some adventure and hijinx for good measure! Santa Paws, the prequel story to 2009's Santa Buddies, will be released on Blu-ray and DVD on November 23rd.

About the Movie:

In the tradition of Disney's classic holiday tales comes a heartwarming movie about the power of giving and the true meaning of Christmas. Discover how the legendary friendship of Santa Claus and Santa Paws began in the inspiring original film, The Search For Santa Paws.

When Santa and his new best friend, Paws, discover that the boys and girls of the world have lost the spirit of the season, they take a trip to New York City. But after Santa loses his memory, it's up to Paws, a faithful orphan named Quinn (America's Got Talent's Kaitlyn Maher), her new friend Will (The Game Plan's Madison Pettis) and a wonderful group of magical talking dogs to save St. Nick and show the world what Christmas is really all about.

I definitely love Dogs, but want you to know that you don't have to be a dog lover to love this movie, and despite the fact that this is not an animated movie (which is what everyone mostly thinks when they think Disney), this is a great family movie to add to your roster of traditional movies the family watch as they count down to Christmas!

Getting this years buying guide to you on time meant doing a lot of holiday related activities that I would normally be just starting on Thanksgiving weekend! Everyone was a bit confused by my movie selection last weekend, but everyone enjoyed the opportunity to see the movie before it's actual release.

Sneak Peek:





Headshot of Robert Vince Photo Credit @Disney

I was part of the Virtual Round Table! 

Disney recently hosted a Virtual Round Table where bloggers had the opportunity to interview Director/Producer/Writer Robert Vance and Writer/Producer Anna McRoberts online! The Round Table was 2 hours and I won't post the entire transcript here, but I am very proud to say that two of my questions were presented, and I thought I'd share them and the answers I received with you!

Q - Was the film Miracle on 34th Street an influence?

A - Robert Vince: Yes it was actually just as much an influence as Annie, A Wonderful Life and a movie we did a number of years ago called Chestnut. We also looked at all the Christmas classics. It was our goal to create a film that would become a perennial favorite during Christmas.

Q - Kids seem to stop 'believing' earlier and earlier, does that present a challenge in developing story lines that appeal to the entire family?

A - Robert Vince: Unfortunately, children are inundated with commercial messages that can sometimes rob their sense of imagination. Movies are one of the places children can allow their imaginations to run free. We do our best to explain some of the logical issues like "Why are there so many Santa Clauses at every mall?' and so far our "ambassadors for the Santa Cause spreading the message of love and kindness for the one and only Santa Clause" idea has been very well received.

A - Anna McRoberts: I think children are built to believe, and it is our job as filmmakers to create worlds that enable them to carry on allowing their imaginations to thrive. I think it's one of our greatest responsibilities as family filmmakers - children naturally have great imaginations and we need to do everything we can to make sure they don't stop 'believing earlier and earlier', but in fact learn to believe in magic and possibility and imagination forever

If you are interested in the entire transcript of the virtual roundtable, Pyschic Mama Indigo Child has posted it on her blog!

Learn More About the Santa Cause:




Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - WIN IT! - Ascending Butterfly and our friends at Disney would like to provide 1 Ascending Butterfly Follower with a Disney The Search For Santa Paws Blu-ray/DVD Combo Pack!

Don't you just ♥ Disney? I know I do!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - How to Win: (1) You must be a PUBLIC follower of Ascending Butterfly to be eligible for this and all giveaways. Indicate in your entry that you follow (if your 'comment name/user id' differs from your profile id, please let me know what name you follow under) and Mandatory Entry: 2) Tell us who your favorite Disney Movie Character is and from which movie! (3) You must also leave your email address somewhere in your comment. (You can format it this way for security, example: ascendingbutterfly AT mail host DOT com). (If your email is clearly visible in your profile, you can just say so, that's OK!) Please follow the easy 1, 2, 3 steps to winning (or in this case, the A,B,C’s of winning!) This giveaway is open to USA residents who are 18 years of age or older. No PO Boxes.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Please follow directions or you will be disqualified! All comments are moderated, they may not appear on the site right away (comments like "I want this" or "I want to win" will not be entered). You have from Monday, November 22, 2010 until Sunday, November 28, 2010 at 03:00 PM (EST) to comment and be entered for a chance to win. You will have 48 hours to confirm if we do not hear from you we will be forced to move on to an alternate. (We only notify winners DIRECTLY via email, so if your profile or your comment does not have an email your entry will not be processed)

EXTRA CREDIT:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Blog about this giveaway, linking to this giveaway post. Leave the URL in a comment. (If your blog post contains more than just a pic and link you'll get 5 extra credit entries!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - In the spirit of Christmas fun, how about an extra credit for sharing your favorite holiday movie?

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Grab our Button and put it on your Blog. Leave the URL where we can see it in a comment (if you already have our button, just let us know, you will still get extra credit!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow @Tracy_Iglesias on Twitter (this is ascendingbutterfly’s editor) and give me your twitter ID in a comment

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Tweet this:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ #ascendingbutterfly + @DisneyAnimation Disney The Search For Santa Paws Blu-Ray/DVD Combo Pack #Giveaway! - http://tinyurl.com/2g9u67t

(Leave a comment with the tweet’s url so you can get a valid entry (click on the time your tweet was sent to get the direct URL and then copy and paste it here). You can Tweet TWICE per DAY. If you Tweet more than that, that entry will be disqualified.)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow @DisneyAnimation on Twitter

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Digg about this giveaway and leave your digg username in your comment

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Fave this blog on Technorati and leave your Technorati user name in your comment

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow Ascending Butterfly on Facebook HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow Disney Movie Rewards on Facebook (and remember to tell them 'Ascending Butterfly sent me') HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow Ascending Butterfly on Networked Blogs HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Join Ascending Butterfly's NEW Community/Real Time Chat, Group HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Vote for Ascending Butterfly on: Fuel My Blog

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Have you entered another giveaway on Ascending Butterfly? Let me know which one and you’ll get more extra credit!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Have you commented on a non-giveaway entry? Let me know which one here and you’ll get more extra credit!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - I could use your vote (please leave me your voting number in the comment field for an extra credit) - http://www.itsthoughtful.com/gift-idea/2758/

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Press the button below and join, you get an extra entry for this giveaway and a shot at more great prizes, lets win together! (one time extra credit, will be verified before entry can be accepted)


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FTC Disclosure Info for this Giveaway: This is not a paid insertion. This is a non-compensated post and all opinions regarding the product and the sponsor are my own experiences. I was provided product to facilitate the review and giveaway. The sponsor is fulfilling directly to prize winner(s), this in no way influenced my opinion of the product. Once a winner is selected and their information has been forwarded to the sponsor, the responsibility of prize fulfillment rests with the sponsor.

Sunday, November 21, 2010

Sunday Moment of Gratitude!


Photo Reads: 'Beleive in Gratitude Big' Credit: @Bing

On Sunday's, 'Today's Moment of Inspiration' becomes the weekly 'Moment of Gratitude'. While I do still live in Gratitude each and everyday, I decided to change this feature to a weekly to allow a full week of Inspirational messages and focused breathing meditations.

This week, I am grateful for:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - I am grateful to our friends at Disney for providing me with passes to a Screening of Tangled in 3D this weekend, I needed to get away from the computer for awhile, and it was fun watching the children react to the 3D animation and images seeming to pop right off the screen! (And I think Disney has been writing with me in mind, because there was a butterfly sighting in this movie too!) No spoilers here, but I definitely recommend! I decided to make Saturday a total movie day and I am totally grateful for the day off, it was well-deserved and MUCH needed.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Our 'Surprise-A-Day' Giveaway is in full swing and there has been great response! Thanks readers for all the entries and the emails! And to our wonderful sponsors for making this one of our biggest holiday buying guides ever, there are huge surprises to come. I needed to take the weekend to moderate all the entries in the queue before putting up some new ones!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - The fact that the holiday buying guide pushed up my time frame for getting holiday decorating completed, means that when most people are starting the frenzy I am already pretty much done, which will allow me to be in the moment and enjoy the holidays more this year! It's been a great pleasure enjoying evenings in front of my tree which went up so much earlier than my usual!

What are you grateful for today? I'd love for you to write in and share what you are grateful for this week. The more you say it, the more you speak it, and the more you live in gratitude, the more you will find reasons to be grateful for, and the more reasons that the universe will send you to be grateful for. So join me on this journey of gratitude and inspiration. And you can post here daily (even though my list will be posted weekly).

Remember, attitude really does determine altitude.

It is OK to *Re-Tweet* the link to this post and You can find me on Twitter here (@Tracy_Iglesias) Twitter love: re*tweet by copying and pasting the following into your update field at Twitter:

OK to RT: @Tracy_Iglesias This Week's 'Moment of Gratitude' and Great giveaways! - http://tiny.cc/n4Thx

Active Giveaways:

1) Ends MONDAY 11/22 - Win Your Christmas Tree with a $100 Gift Certificate to Hayneedle.com (or any other product of your choosing in their over 220 stores) Enter HERE (this one ends soon, like TOMORROW so hurry!)

2) Ends 11/23 - Activeion Ionator HOM Review and Giveaway! (ARV $179) An amazing eco friendly cleaner! Enter HERE

3) Ends 11/24 - Disney Tangled Prize Pack Giveaway! Enter HERE

4) Ends 11/25 - Win an Allergy Blocking Window Panels Pair of YOUR choice from CleanRest® - 2 winners (ARV $100 per prize = $200 since there are 2 winners)- (Allergans are not just restricted to Spring, breathe easy in your home YEAR ROUND!) Enter HERE

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For those of you who are interested in keeping a gratitude journal this year, here is my recommendation and a direct link to purchase it:















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FTC Disclosure: This is not a compensated post nor is this a paid insertion. I attended a Disney Screening this weekend, and was under no obligation to post, but I really enjoyed the movie and thought I'd share! All giveaways listed are sponsored and will be fulfilled directly by the sponsor. I really do live in gratitude and this is the journal I use which is why I recommend it.

Saturday, November 20, 2010

SURPRISE!



Ascending Butterfly's Surprise-a-Day Countdown to Christmas Giveaways will return soon! Our server is flooded with entries, and we need to get them processed before we can post new giveaways! Surprise, I just realized there is but so much I can possibly do in a day! :-)

I hope you are having a wonderful weekend! I am off to a Disney 'Tangled' Screening this weekend! While I'm watching the movie, why don't you enter to win a Disney Tangled Prize Pack HERE

And while you are in the Christmas state of mind, don't forget to enter to win our Activeion Ionator HOM giveaway HERE

or a pair of Allergy Blocking Window Curtains from Clean Rest HERE

and ending soon, you can win your Christmas Tree or any other product your heart desires from over 220 Stores with a $100 Hayneedle.com Gift Card HERE

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