Weekly Moment of Gratitude - @VLANY Trunk Show AND More Winning!

This week, I am grateful for:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Thursday (3/24), I had the opportunity to attend the VLA New York Trunk Show!

VLA celebrates the contributions of Volunteer Attorneys, Pro Bono Coordinators, Law Firms, and Corporate supporters bi-annually at their Summer and Fall Benefits. Their Board of Directors and the entire organization are proud to recognize the extraordinary efforts of the volunteers who donate legal services worth millions of dollars to the New York arts community each year.

Many of the brands in attendance at this invite only event were donating proceeds from the evening's sales to Japan! Brands in attendance included:

Bria Bridal
Charles Alexander Neckwear
Chaya Gruber
Christopher Beane
Corrente Handbags
Henley and Sloane
Janna Levin
Judith Haas
Khirma Eliazov
Lisa Fiorentino
Louda Larrain
Margo Petitti
Megan Isaacs Jewelry
Molly Rose Post
NALLIK
Prima Zaria
Urban Boulder
Species by the Thousand
Unk & Wil
Very Cool Jewels

The highlight of the evening was the opportunity to meet a very special designer in person, Stella Chang, Founder of Prima Zaria, a line of amazing handbags with not only beautiful design, but amazing attention to detail. Look for an upcoming collaboration here in June! Stella and her team were incredibly approachable, and her love for what she does truly shines through.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ -  An Amazing win to report! I WON the huge Bridal Beauty Blow Out Giveaway on Just Married with Coupons & SweepTight! I have to admit I almost fell out of my chair when I got the email notifying me that I won. The prize haul is so massive, they actually sent me a spreadsheet inventory list! Wow!!! Jennifer and Dawn, thanks you didn't Just make my day, you made my week!

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).

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

Remember, attitude really does determine altitude.

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Active Giveaways!

1) Ends 03/28 - $50 Novica.com Digital Gift Code Giveaway!  - Enter HERE

2) Ends 04/01 - Spotlight Handbag of the Month Giveaway! Pelle Hinges Tote sponsored by Wilsons Leather! ARV $200!  This is a perfect Spring Bag to add to your accessories wardrobe! - 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 where to purchase it:

Make this Your Best Day ever, Bless and Be Blessed!

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Vote Needed!

I am a finalist in Mom Central Consulting's 'Grow Your Personal Brand' Grant Program. I would love your vote, but I would also love for you to read my entry. My essay is entitled 'Project Chrysalis'. A project, which many of you know has already begun. The essay questions I was asked to answer really made me think, about my 'brand' and most importantly about my goals both personally and professionally. I hope reading my entry brings you inspiration! This is a DAILY, 1 click, no registration required vote request. You can vote by pressing the image below:

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FTC Disclosure: I was not asked to write about Mom Central's Grant Program, nor does writing about it improve my chances. I feel the message they are sending by supporting bloggers efforts to grow their brand is an important and powerful one!' I was also not asked to write about the VLANY Trunk Show or the brands featured, I like to share events I attend with my readers! I also was not asked to share about my win, it was too fab not to!

Relief Run in Santa Monica, California - Sunday, March 27th

Some of our West Coast readers mentioned that they wish they could attend the Martha Stewart Pop Up Shop event this weekend that I wrote about yesterday. Well here is something for my West Coast readers!

In an effort to raise money for Japan, actor Josh Duhamel ('When in Rome', 'Transformers', 'All My Children', Soap,  and TV series 'Vegas') is hosting a Relief Run in Santa Monica, CA this coming Sunday, March 27, 2011.

Who: Josh Duhamel  and You!
What: TokiDoki Relief Run - Youth Run 4 Japan
When: Sunday, March 27, 2011
Where: Santa Monica Beach
Why: To raise funds for the Americas Red Cross's Japan Earthquake and Pacific Tsunami fund.

Registration: 10:00 am
Run Starts: 11:00 am

Josh will be there running too!

West Coasters who want to get 'Tweety' with it:

Follow: @tokidoki @joshduhamel @reliefrun
Hashtag:  #reliefrun


East Coasters who can't participate but want to show support:

Join me in tweeting:

Wish I could participate with @tokidoki @reliefrun @joshduhamel tomorrow to #packthebeach for #reliefrun

You can also purchase the Relief Run tshirt online, both men and women's styles as well as a tote bag at tokidoki!

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FTC Disclosure Info: This is a Non Compensated Post, I was not asked to post about the relief run. Ascending Butterfly loves featuring people, companies and brands that give back!

Martha Stewart's Pie Pop-Up shop - THIS WEEKEND ONLY!

PRESS HERE: VIEW LARGER

It seems that the New York Times’ prediction that pie would be a big topic in food this year is proving true. Martha Stewart has a new Pies & Tarts book, on sale March 22, and to celebrate the book, she’s opening up shop – a Pie Pop-Up shop, that is. For two days this weekend, the shop will sell mini versions of the pies and tarts featured in the book, as well as the book itself. Martha’s bakers will be on hand and each book purchase gets you a chance to win great products from the Martha Stewart Collection at Macy’s!



Who: Martha Stewart

What: Pie Pop-Up shop

When: March 26th and 27th (Saturday and Sunday)

Where: 93 Greenwich Avenue (Between Bank Street and West 12th Street in NYC Map HERE)

How: (Can you get involved? Glad you asked!) - Come buy dreamy cream pies, dainty lemon tartlets, classic fruit pies, savory galettes, rustic hand pies... and the brand new book that shows you how to make all of them!

PLUS meet the bakers behind the book! We'll have raffles every hour on the hour!

Don't forget to check in on Foursquare: http://foursquare.com/venue/18279971

*Make sure you grab a recipe card featuring one of Macy's Culinary Council Chefs & their favorite recipes!

I for one love pie! And since I have a birthday coming up soon, Cherry Pie is my favorite, in case you wanted to send me baked goods! :)

All kidding aside, while I love eating Cherry Pie, I have NEVER, EVER attempted to bake one myself. I'm thinking I should head down there early, to secure my cookbook and make sure they don't run out of pie before I get there!

<-Special Thanks to our friends at Everywhere for letting us know about this great event to share with all Ascending Butterfly Readers!

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FTC Disclosure Info: Everywhere provided me with a Macy's Gift Card to help faciliatate this post, however all opinions expressed herein are strictly my own. And because full disclosure is very important, I really do love Cherry Pie! :)

Wordless Wednesday - Remembering Elizabeth Taylor!

Today Hollywood lost one of it's stars. Rest in Peace Ms. Elizabeth Taylor. I love this photo, there is something way more expressive and memorable about Black and White Photography!

Actress. Activist. Business Woman. Mother. Wife. Friend. Passionate......

No matter how you remember her, one thing is certain, you will never forget her!

Feel free to share your favorite Elizabeth Taylor movie!

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FTC Disclosure Info: I was not asked by anyone to post this. I am a fan!

Today's Words of Inspiration - Get outside the comfort zone!

Dancing With The Stars new season began last night, and I never miss this show! Music, Dancing, what's not to love? With the exception of some of the outfits, it's one of the most family friendly shows out there! I love Dancing and I like watching the first episode especially when the cast is revealed. Usually I am really good at picking the first one to go and who will be the last 3 standing right from episode 1.

The thing I appreciate most though is watching the cast progress. Particularly the ones with no real/formal dance training. The ones who are really going outside of their comfort zones, learning something new! There is something exhilarating about going outside of our comfort zones. Tackling a new challenge, especially one we don't think we are necessarily ready for.

You'll see some will come out with enthusiasm and confidence, optimism or bravado, and others won't be as sure on their feet.

Attitude will determine altitude as sure as practice and discipline will. Today challenge yourself to try something outside your comfort zone. It could be anything, volunteer to be a project leader at work, at the PTA, at church. Try a recipe tonight you've never made. The challenge can be as big or small as you like. The rewards of stepping outside of your comfort zone include increased confidence, and who can't use more self-confidence?

If you are watching who is your favorite team? You can see the team list HERE

Today's Words of Inspiration'

 

Use 'Today's Words of Inspiration' as a breathing meditation to still your mind, quiet your thoughts and bring in positive energy. As you inhale bring in only positive energy by saying in your mind, I breathe in positive energy (or you can say creative energy if that is what you wish to create more of) and as you exhale, Affirm out loud 'I step outside of my comfort zone and tackle new challenges with ease!'

Spend some time each day enjoying focused breathing AND soul guided meditative visualization, in doing so, you can bring about profound and powerful changes in your life.

Visualize yourself manifesting something unique, guided by universal forces that emerge spontaneously from within your soul. Do this at least twice today and see how by taking a moment away from the hectic pace and breathing in positive energy and affirming what you wish to create, your thinking will become different.

Remember, attitude really does determine altitude.

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

@Tracy_Iglesias #ascendingbutterfly - Today's Words of #Inspiration - http://tiny.cc/n4Thx

Make this your best day ever, Bless and Be Blessed!

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Active Giveaways!

1) Ends 03/28 - $50 Novica.com Digital Gift Code Giveaway!  - Enter HERE!

2) Ends 04/01 - Spotlight Handbag of the Month Giveaway! Pelle Hinges Tote sponsored by Wilsons Leather! ARV $200!  - Enter HERE!

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Vote Needed!

I am a finalist in Mom Central Consulting's 'Grow Your Personal Brand' Grant Program. I would love your vote, but I would also love for you to read my entry. My essay is entitled 'Project Chrysalis'. A project, which many of you know has already begun. The essay questions I was asked to answer really made me think, about my 'brand' and most importantly about my goals both personally and professionally. I hope reading my entry brings you inspiration! This is a DAILY, 1 click, no registration required vote request. You can vote by pressing the image below or HERE:



FTC Disclosure: I was not asked to write about Mom Central's Grant Program, nor does writing about it improve my chances. I feel the message they are sending by supporting bloggers efforts to grow their brand is an important and powerful one! I was also not asked to write about DWTS, I do watch the show each season and thought it was a great analogy!

$50 Novica.com Digital Gift Code Giveaway!

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This giveaway is now CLOSED. Thanks so much to our wonderful sponsor Novica! We look forward to working with you again! The winner is Beth E. Remember: There are great giveaways active on the upper right hand side of the page!

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Ascending Butterfly's 'It's MY Birthday, but You Get the Gifts' Giveaways, brought to you by:

It's officially Spring! And you know what that means! Yes that's right, my birthday is coming soon! As far as I'm concerned, having only one day to celebrate is no where near enough. I say celebrating this life will take at least a month!

When I'm giving gifts I look for gifts that are unique and 'fit' the recipient, and I also love creative packaging. I love to add sweet embellishments (like butterflies!) that express my personality and that of the recipient! It's not always so easy to find Unique Gifts and creative packaging! Needless to say when I receive a gift that is creatively packaged it certainly adds to the excitement factor!

Ascending Butterfly has made its mark by making sure we feature 'Corporations With a Conscience'.  Brands that care enough to give back. As far as I'm concerned the best shopping, is 'Guilt Free' Shopping. Where your purchase actually makes a difference. Getting a discount is great, making a difference....like the famous commercial we all know says....PRICELESS!

National Geographic in Association with Novica.com are helping to make art happen in the form of a Microcredit. 0 % Interest Free MicroFinancing for Artisans in developing nations. Now in addition to the fact that your order goes to helping the artisan that crafted your item, you can also get involved in the MicroFinancing and contribute to your favorite Artisan directly and help them meet their Financing Goals, which aids in expansion, adding items to inventory and more! Here is a list of Artisans currently seeking funding, you can also read a little more about each one and how they plan to use the funding.

"When combined with information and communication technologies, microcredit can unleash new opportunities for the world's poorest entrepreneurs and thereby revitalize the village economies they serve." ~ Madeleine K. Albright and John Doerr

'Wine Bouquet'

No, it's not what you think! lol - Look at how it came wrapped:

 

See the oh so cute little Llama embellishment on the raffia ribbon? This is just the kind of packaging I like, cute, creative and a sweet embellishment!

AND INSIDE THE PACKAGE:



Wine Bouquet

I can't tell you how impressed I am with this sweater! It is mid-weight, keeps me warm on it's own without making me feel weighed down. It's soft, not itchy in any way, and I love the style, the cable detailing in the front is super stylish! I also greatly love the Vneck front, it doesn't plunge as much on me as on the model above, and the sleeves are not as long on me as on the model in the photo. Like little bear said it fit me 'just right'.

Quote From the Artisan:

"I use Peruvian knitting and weaving techniques, along with the incomparable quality of alpaca wool, to design modern classics. My goal is to create apparel that you can use all your life." ~ Laura Anaya

Star Legends

And what's a Birthday without some Bling Bling:

 

 

I love sterling silver, and I also love the Celtic inspired Design on these earrings! Maybe it's because of the Gaelic origins of my first name! I've always been attracted to Celtic inspired jewelry, and what's a birthday without bling?

Quote From the Artisan:

"I believe that opportunities are everywhere, that is, for those who can anticipate and make the risky decision to invest time and money." ~ Wadarat Supasirisuk

By the way the Artisan is also an Aries like me! Coincidence I was attracted to her work? I'll let you decide!

My Take:

When I found out my order was coming from 2 different parts of the country, I had my reservations about fulfillment time. I thought the orders would take forever to arrive, but I was pleasantly surprised by just how fast my order arrived!

I also loved how beautifully wrapped they both were! I would highly recommend Novica for all of your gift giving needs, it's definitely 'guilt free' shopping at its finest! You are not only giving back, you are empowering an artisan to help their small businesses not only thrive, but actually go global! How cool is that?

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - WIN IT! - Ascending Butterfly and our friends at Novica have a very special surprise for 1 lucky winner! 1 winner will receive a $50 Novica.com digital gift code. Like I said, it's my birthday, but you get the gifts!

Don't you just ♥ Novica? 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 (2)MANDATORY entry- Visit Novica.com and link us to what you will buy if you win! (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 everyone 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, March 21, 2011 until Monday, March 28, 2011 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 - NEW! - one click, no registration required, super easy, DAILY vote, I am a finalist in Mom Central's Grow Your Personal Brand Grants Program and would really appreciate your vote! Read more about ‘Project Chrysalis’ and vote here

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 Spring Time Fun share with us your favorite sign of Spring!

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:

Pls RT Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ #ascendingbutterfly $50 @Novica Gift Card #Giveaway! Ends 3/28 http://tinyurl.com/4f7vb35

(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 @novica 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 Novica and tell them Ascending Butterfly Blog Sent You on Facebook 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 active 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 - 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 products and the sponsor are my own experiences. I was provided product to facilitate the review and giveaway. The sponsors are fulfilling directly to prize winner(s), this in no way influenced my opinion of the products. Once a winner is selected and their information has been forwarded to the sponsor, the responsibility of prize fulfillment rests with the sponsor.

Sunday Moment of Gratitude -Winning, Early Birthday Cake and More!

This week, I am grateful for:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Friday, March 18th bloggers were asked to take a day of silence for the people of Japan and Ascending Butterfly decided to participate. I am grateful to be part of a blogging community that thinks globally, not just locally! Remember, Donations can be made to Japan Earthquake and Pacific Tsunami relief by texting REDCROSS to 90999 for a $10 donation.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - That there are still many things that bring out the kid in me, and while I have one of those birthdays ahead of me, that many consider a 'cross roads', I received my first birthday cake WAY early this week (my birthday isn't until April) and it truly brought out the little kid me! I haven't opened it yet, and it's been difficult to resist the urge to dive into it and attack it! :)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - I have had a great mail week this week! While I haven't had time to enter many giveaways this week, I did receive some prizes I won from various contests including some great purex coupons, and I found them on sale 2 for $5 isn't that awesome! And I also received an amazing Crisco Prize pack with gorgeous Pasta Bowls, (hand painted beauties made for William Sonoma!). Not to mention my early chocolate birthday cake!

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

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Active Giveaways!

1) Ends 03/21 - LUMIXYL Brightening System 8 weeks to a brighter you Giveaway! 3 winners! ARV $270 PER kit $810 Total! (See Facebook Page and Twitter Page for more exciting ways to win!) - Enter HERE

2) Ends 04/01 - Spotlight Handbag of the Month Giveaway! Pelle Hinges Tote sponsored by Wilsons Leather! ARV $200!  This is a perfect Spring Bag to add to your accessories wardrobe! - Enter HERE

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

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

Make this Your Best Day ever, Bless and Be Blessed!

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

Vote Needed!

I am a finalist in Mom Central Consulting's 'Grow Your Personal Brand' Grant Program. I would love your vote, but I would also love for you to read my entry. My essay is entitled 'Project Chrysalis'. A project, which many of you know has already begun. The essay questions I was asked to answer really made me think, about my 'brand' and most importantly about my goals both personally and professionally. I hope reading my entry brings you inspiration! This is a DAILY, 1 click, no registration required vote request. You can vote by pressing the image below:



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

FTC Disclosure: I was not asked to write about Mom Central's Grant Program, nor does writing about it improve my chances. I feel the message they are sending by supporting bloggers efforts to grow their brand is an important and powerful one!'

Today's Words of Inspiration - Take time for yourself every day!

Thanks to Crystal Light for sponsoring this post. To learn more about how Crystal Light can flavor your day with 30 refreshing flavors, visit facebook.com/crystallight

I have a lot of balls in the air right now! As a result, I've been ignoring my own sage advice, and allowing circumstances to force me to stretch myself thin. And as a catholic, observing the season of Lent brings constant reminders of sacrifice, and 'giving something up'.

But what if there is nothing left to give up? What if time has become your nemesis? What if you are sacrificing sleep to get 'everything' done. What does that leave you to 'give up'? Where does that leave you emotionally?

I'm not going to pretend I have all the answers. I've learned to live in serenity and accept that work/life balance is a struggle. A struggle most of us share!

I have come to value my breathing affirmational excercises even more lately. So much so, that despite being super busy, I actually affirm and take moments of stillness twice a day, once to begin my day and once at the end of my night to help 'program' my sleep. Those albeit brief moments of stillness where I affirm statements that I know will bring about change and greater good within me have become my favorite parts of the day. Which has made me realize exactly how much more I'd like to be doing for myself.

I give a lot of my energy and time, to work, to family, to cultivate friendships, and I don't wan't to let myself 'starve' emotionally in the process. In my post about Lent, a reader told me, that instead of giving something up, they planned to add something on, and while I'm not going to 'add' exactly the same thing, I will add on more time for myself. To unwind, de-stress and even sneak in some pampering! The Flight Attendants in an Airplane even tell you to put the oxygen mask on yourself first, you can't take care of others, if you don't take proper care of yourself first. I am making that my motto today!

In case you missed today's St. Patrick's Day message, click HERE. Remember to throw on a little green today! May the ♣ LUCK O' THE IRISH ♣ be with you!

Today's Words of Inspiration'

 

Use 'Today's Words of Inspiration' as a breathing meditation to still your mind, quiet your thoughts and bring in positive energy. As you inhale bring in only positive energy by saying in your mind, I breathe in positive energy (or you can say creative energy if that is what you wish to create more of) and as you exhale, Affirm out loud 'I take time for myself daily!'

Spend some time each day enjoying focused breathing AND soul guided meditative visualization, in doing so, you can bring about profound and powerful changes in your life.

Visualize yourself manifesting something unique, guided by universal forces that emerge spontaneously from within your soul. Do this at least twice today and see how by taking a moment away from the hectic pace and breathing in positive energy and affirming what you wish to create, your thinking will become different.

Remember, attitude really does determine altitude.

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

@Tracy_Iglesias #ascendingbutterfly - Today's Words of #Inspiration - Take time for yourself every day! #CleverRefresh- http://tiny.cc/n4Thx

Make this your best day ever, Bless and Be Blessed!

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

Active Giveaways!

1) Ends 03/21 - LUMIXYL Brightening System 8 weeks to a brighter you Giveaway! 3 winners! ARV $270 PER kit $810 Total! (See Facebook Page and Twitter Page for more exciting ways to win!) - Enter HERE!

2) Ends 04/01 - Spotlight Handbag of the Month Giveaway! Pelle Hinges Tote sponsored by Wilsons Leather! ARV $200!  - Enter HERE!

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

Vote Needed!

I am a finalist in Mom Central Consulting's 'Grow Your Personal Brand' Grant Program. I would love your vote, but I would also love for you to read my entry. My essay is entitled 'Project Chrysalis'. A project, which many of you know has already begun. The essay questions I was asked to answer really made me think, about my 'brand' and most importantly about my goals both personally and professionally. I hope reading my entry brings you inspiration! This is a DAILY, 1 click, no registration required vote request. You can vote by pressing the image below or HERE:



FTC Disclosure: I was not asked to write about Mom Central's Grant Program, nor does writing about it improve my chances. I feel the message they are sending by supporting bloggers efforts to grow their brand is an important and powerful one!

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

Remember, visit facebook.com/crystallight to learn more about how Crystal Light can flavor your day with 30 refreshing flavors. I was selected and paid for this sponsorship by the Clever Girls Collective, which endorses Blog With Integrity, as I do.

Wordless Wednesday - Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Yes, I know it's still the 16th, but I couldn't resist using a fun St. Patty's Day themed Graphic for Wordless Wednesday today!

Here is one of my favorite reads for St. Patrick's Day:

May the road rise up to meet you, may the wind be ever at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face and the rain fall softly on your fields. And until we meet again, May God hold you in the hollow of his hand.

May God grant you always...A sunbeam to warm you, a moonbeam to charm you, a sheltering Angel so nothing can harm you. Laughter to cheer you. Faithful friends near you. And whenever you pray, Heaven to hear you.

May the strength of God pilot us, may the wisdom of God instruct us, may the hand of God protect us, may the word of God direct us. Be always ours this day and for evermore. - St. Patrick

May your days be many and your troubles be few. May all God's blessings descend upon you. May peace be within you may your heart be strong. May you find what you're seeking wherever you roam.

May flowers always line your path and sunshine light your day. May songbirds serenade you every step along the way. May a rainbow run beside you in a sky that’s always blue. And may happiness fill your heart each day your whole life through.

May God give you...For every storm a rainbow, for every tear a smile, for every care a promise and a blessing in each trial. For every problem life sends, a faithful friend to share, for every sigh a sweet song and an answer for each prayer.

For each petal on the shamrock this brings a wish your way. Good health, good luck, and happiness for today and every day.

May St. Patrick guard you wherever you go, and guide you in whatever you do and may his loving protection be a blessing to you always.

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

Whether you spend this day at a Parade, at Church or at the Pub with friends, please use public transportation, do not drink and drive! Have Fun and Please Stay SAFE!

Today's Words of Inspiration - Is Compassion Dying?

I'm normally not prone to celeb gossip and news on Ascending Butterfly. Celebs comings and goings don't interest me much. Normally you will only see them featured here if they are doing something for charity or the world at large. I get press releases all day long from PR folks who seem to think who wore what where is of interest to me and my readers. That some ball gown is earth shattering and important.

I get that there is a market for 'demented humor' and 'snarky' is very popular and has it's place, but today I'm plain disgusted about the lack of simple compassion in the world. As many of you know, there was quite a bit of controversy surrounding Gilbert Gottfried and Rapper 50 Cent.

I recently met Gilbert at an event for Fisher Price. He was personable and very friendly, and even he himself seemed very surprised that he was selected to speak to the blogging audience in attendance that day. I was actually quite amazed at his ability to go from 'himself' one minute, directly into 'character' the next.

Here is what he tweeted:



@TMZ 2011

 and:

@TMZ 2011

There were 12 insensitive tweets in total, which were deleted and I noticed this on his timeline recently:

I meant no disrespect, and my thoughts are with the victims and their families. (That tweet can be seen HERE)

As you may also know he lost his gig as the voice of the AFLAC duck because of this.

In the case of rapper 50 Cent he tweeted:

"Wave will hit 8am them crazy white boys gonna try to go surfing."

And: "Look this is very serious people I had to evacuate all my hoess from LA, Hawaii and Japan. I had to do it. Lol"

He then explained:

"Nah this is nuts but what can anyone do about it. Let's pray for anyone who has lost someone"

And: "Some of my tweets are ignorant I do it for shock value. Hate it or love it. I'm cool either way 50cent."

Would Gilbert be that blasé about the Holocaust? Would 50 be that blasé about Katrina?

I've also been following the news stories about the 2 bus accidents by buses returning from Casino Day Trips and I've seen such a lack of sensitivity there as well, with people saying they shouldn't have gone to a Casino in the first place and other such insensitive remarks.

I send my prayers to the people of Japan. I send my prayers to those in the 2 bus accidents as well as their families and friends. Donations can be made to Japan Earthquake and Pacific Tsunami relief by texting REDCROSS to 90999 for a $10 donation.

I'm honestly completely appaled by all this! I get that Gilbert tells for the most part insanely dirty jokes and that hardcore rappers are not prone to public bursts of sentimentality, but when do we as human beings hold ourselves accountable for what we say and do. Is compassion dying?

Today's Words of Inspiration'

 

Use 'Today's Words of Inspiration' as a breathing meditation to still your mind, quiet your thoughts and bring in positive energy. As you inhale bring in only positive energy by saying in your mind, I breathe in positive energy (or you can say creative energy if that is what you wish to create more of) and as you exhale, Affirm out loud 'I radiate compassion!'

Spend some time each day enjoying focused breathing AND soul guided meditative visualization, in doing so, you can bring about profound and powerful changes in your life.

Visualize yourself manifesting something unique, guided by universal forces that emerge spontaneously from within your soul. Do this at least twice today and see how by taking a moment away from the hectic pace and breathing in positive energy and affirming what you wish to create, your thinking will become different.

Remember, attitude really does determine altitude.

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

@Tracy_Iglesias #ascendingbutterfly - Today's Words of #Inspiration - http://tiny.cc/n4Thx

Make this your best day ever, Bless and Be Blessed!

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

Active Giveaways!

1) Ends 03/21 - LUMIXYL Brightening System 8 weeks to a brighter you Giveaway! 3 winners! ARV $270 PER kit $810 Total!  - Enter HERE!

2) Ends 04/01 - Spotlight Handbag of the Month Giveaway! Pelle Hinges Tote sponsored by Wilsons Leather! ARV $200!  - Enter HERE!

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

Vote Needed!

I am a finalist in Mom Central Consulting's 'Grow Your Personal Brand' Grant Program. I would love your vote, but I would also love for you to read my entry. My essay is entitled 'Project Chrysalis'. A project, which many of you know has already begun. The essay questions I was asked to answer really made me think, about my 'brand' and most importantly about my goals both personally and professionally. I hope reading my entry brings you inspiration! This is a DAILY, 1 click, no registration required vote request. You can vote by pressing the image below or HERE:



FTC Disclosure: I was not asked to write about Mom Central's Grant Program, nor does writing about it improve my chances. I feel the message they are sending by supporting bloggers efforts to grow their brand is an important and powerful one!