We interrupt your summer to tell you that it's almost time for BACK TO SCHOOL! #StaplesHasIt + @NickCannon & a #Giveaway too!

I know the thought of Back to School will send all your child's hairs to stand on end, but doing all your shopping at the very last minute, will do the same to your wallet! Did you know that the bulk of a student's shopping budget is actually in 'tech' products now? And not every back to school shopping retailer can offer a wide range of school supplies AND technology products too at affordable prices that won't break the bank!

I recently attended a Back-to-School event where we got one resounding message loud and clear STAPLES HAS IT, or in this new age of speaking in hashtags: #StaplesHasIt

Back-to-School Made Easy with the Newest Trends

For the 2013 Back-to-School Shopping Season, Staples is offering an expanded assortment of fashionable and super functional must-have supplies, that will make going to back to class more fun! To help families save money on those must-have supplies the popular Back-to-School Savings Pass is back this year which gives you a 15 percent discount on supplies! Remember you can only purchase the pass through August 31st, and it's valid through September 21st which is great, because sometimes despite our best efforts we end up having to make multiple trips to the store for supply runs anyway! The pass costs $10, but if even if you have only one tech item on your list the 15% discount will help ensure that the cost of the savings pass pays for itself!

Some trends you'll spot at Staples this season include:

Neon - Get into the groove will cool and bold hues, Neon Sharpies or the Quilted Collection of Zipper Binders, Pencil Pouches, Tablet Cases and Clipboards!

Exclusive Patterns and Designs - Let's face it, individual expression is what it's all about, and Staples offers unique designs on products like the Staples BETTER binders, sticky notes and index card holders. One of my favorites are the ARC notebooks that offer a customizable cover that you can change whenever you get bored or want to mix things up! (for me it's like the notebook equivalent of swapping out your desktop wallpaper!)

Twinkle, Twinkle - The Glo-Lite Collection lights up when pushed and includes staplers, rulers and dry-erase boards. The Fiber Optic Pencil Pouches which are Exclusive to Staples, twinkle with designs that include shoe, piano and paisley. The Magnetic Motion Sensor Locker Chandelier with seven LED lights, the exclusive Glo-Lite Magnetic Pencil Bin, glitter rugs, Twinkle Scissors and magnetic wallpaper will help students spruce up their space and stand out in style.

Tech You Can Touch - The Acer Aspire Touch Laptop and new tablets like the HP Slate with Beats, Samsung Galaxy II, Samsung Note 8.0, Google Nexus 7 or the Kindle Fire HD help kids stay connected online both in and out of the classroom. (Again that savings pass will come in handy if you plan to purchase any tech for Back-to-School). And of course you need a cool case to protect your new touch device, how about a Zebra Print Tablet Case by Jansport? (pictured above)

Non Basic Basics -  I fell in love with the new, bendable Staples Flexible Calculator, and the Scotch Magic Chameleon Tape Dispenser which changes color when touched! (pictured above)

Lunchtime = Funtime - The Fit and Fresh 14 Piece Healthy Lunch Set features perfectly proportioned containers with ice packs that snap into the lids! Cool It! Ice Packs will keep the chill in any lunch bag or box. Or enjoy the updated classic LEGO Lunch Box. (all are pictured above)

Celebrity Surprise:

Staples surprised us all when Nick Cannon and AJ from Extra payed a visit to promote his Designer N-Tune headphones produced by Monster!

I was there! Here is a picture of Nick giving me, 'The Official #TwitterPartyDJ' my new Monster NCredible N-Tune On-Ear Headphones (Black):

Left: Tracy, Founder, Butterfly-in-Chief, Ascending Butterfly, Right: Nick Cannon

Here is a picture of AJ Calloway from Extra Television, interviewing Nick Cannon, he asked him about his new N-Tune headphones as well as how it was working with Amanda Bynes!

Here is a picture of me and AJ from Extra TV, he just loves bloggers!

Right: AJ from Extra TV, Left: Tracy from Ascending Butterfly

Staples Gives Back:

Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA) and Staples, Inc have teamed up with teen actor Jake T. Austin for the 6th annual Staples for Students national school supply drive to help kids get the tools they need to be successful in school and achieve great futures!

There are THREE ways YOU can HELP!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Give $1 at checkout - Donate $1 at any Staples register from June 30 - September 28

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Share to Give - Visit Staples for Students on Facebook and they will donate $1 for every share starting July 15th! Isn't that awesome?

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Donate Supplies -  Drop off donated supplies at your local Staples August 11-17th (Just make sure it's not the stuff you pilfered from the office, LOL)

My Take:

As a tech enthusiast I know the Savings Pass will definitely pay for itself! It's been awesome having the opportunity to attend Staples Preview Events, they always present something unique, and their events are always fun, but I will admit I didn't expect the celebrity surprise this time, and Nick couldn't have been more down to earth. I can see why he is so excited about his latest collaboration, Monster produces quality audio accessories and better still they really stand behind them (which I can personally attest to, when my Monster Vivienne Tam Butterfly Headphones died way before they should have, Monster took the time to make it right and send me a replacement, which is not just good customer service, it means they really stand behind the product!). Nick took the time out of his day, to present each and every single one of us with our headphones and to take pictures. He was super approachable and I definitely wish this latest venture of Nick's great success!

YOUR Chance to WIN:

Check out the #StaplesHasIt Photobomb Giveaway - Every Tuesday you can enter the #StaplesHasIt Photobomb Giveaway by submitting a caption for a chance to win a tablet and a Savings Pass! You can enter via Facebook or by following @Staples via twitter and tweeting your caption to the photo of the week! (Hint: That Cool Tape Dispenser I Posted the Picture of above? it just might be in this week's giveaway, so get those creative juices flowing and head on over for your chance to win!)

Have you started your Back-to-School Shopping Yet? What is on your shopping list for this year Butterflies?

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FTC Disclosure: We were provided with the opportunity to learn of Staples Back-toSchool Products at a Digital Press Preview Event, we got to meet Nick Cannon and were supplied with the N-Tune headphones  and a gift bag with an assortment of products to facilitate our review, no monetary compensation has been received in exchange for our event recap coverage. All opinions are 100% my own. See our full disclosure policy for any questions.

New & HOT in #Audio: Headphones that FLIP to powerful SPEAKERS - FlipsAudio™ #solo2social reviewed by the #TwitterPartyDJ

What is the soundtrack of your life?

I normally save my question and my call to action and reserve it for the end of my post, but this time it just seemed so fitting for it to go first! I'll bet there is a song that represents major moments of your life, your first dance, prom, wedding and more. 

or maybe you are like me and there is always a running soundtrack in your head.

Have you ever wished you could share that soundtrack in real time? Now, with a simple flip you can! 

How Flips Works:

Just thought I'd share this video produced by Flips so you can see how easy it is to go from 'solo' listening, to 'social' sharing of your music (I'll try to do a Vine or quick video of my own when I get more caught up!):

It's literally that easy!

You can use them like regular headphones for solo listening, or you can charge them (they have a Lithium Ion Battery that is USB recharge-able) and then flip them and use them as you would any portable speaker!

PROs:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Portable Speakers and Headphones all-in-one! They are lightweight, portable and convenient to use!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Memory Foam Padded Earpiece that is comfortable and if you wear glasses or earrings they don't press them into your head!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - They are compatible with any 3.5 millimeter audio jack which is the standard size on most portable devices including tablets, smart phones, iPods etc.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Comes with Protective Carrying Case

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - If you buy them directly from FlipsAudio, you get free shipping if you buy multiple units in the same order! (So if you have a pal that was looking into these, maybe you can guys can put the order in together and save on the shipping!)

CONs:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Of course Lithium Ion has it's Pros as well as Cons, if it's not fully charged you aren't going to get a lot of time when you are in Share mode, on a full charge it will give you 3 hours.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - I did notice that it has a bit higher treble than most people are probably used to with standard headphones (probably because it's a Speaker as well as headphones, so you may have to adjust your device's treble settings to get a more 'even' sound.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - For now, the color choices are a bit narrow, All White with Red Accents (which is the color I selected) or All Black with Lime Accents (my fellow Alienware Computer Enthusiasts are going to love that color scheme! But since most of my headphones and earbuds are actually Black like the typical New Yorker I am, I went with white this time around.)

Get Social:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - "Like' FlipsAudioUSA on Facebook
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow @FlipsAudio on Twitter
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Subscribe to the FlipsAudio YouTube Channel

My Take:

Butterflies you all know that I went into headphones kicking and screaming because I have always preferred earbuds. I am an eyeglass wearer and I also wear pierced earrings which makes headphones a pain for me, I can tell you after extended hours of use with these they do NOT hurt my ears or push my eyeglasses or sunglasses or earrings into the side of my head. No Marks, means happy butterfly! I am very happy with the sound as a speaker and as headphones as well. I do have a 'good ear' when it comes to audio so it was hard at first getting used the higher treble capture with these, but I've adjusted my settings and once I did that I found that these really do deliver a quality audio experience across various Musical Genres. I have a very eclectic collection of music (but then again what 'DJ' doesn't?), and despite their bigger profile in my handbag, I have found myself reaching for them all the time (BTW, I love the protective case that comes with these!). They are delivering big price sound that allows you to easily share the beat at a price that won't break the bank. One of the highest ratings I can give with me having a background in music and studios and being a blogger is this 'Would you re-buy them if something went wrong?' and the answer is definitely a re-sounding yes! I of course hope they last a long time (and a long time for me is relative and is WAY different than the average mainstream user) but if I lost them I would re-buy them!

My apologies dear butterflies I was not able to arrange for a giveaway with these this time around, but please visit FlipsAudio on their Social Channels and let them know you saw them reviewed here and would love a giveaway, I'm sure your enthusiasm would help sway 'The-Powers-That-Be' over at FlipsAudio! J

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FTC Disclosure: We were provided with the FlipsAudio #solo2social headphones to facilitate our review, no monetary compensation has been received in exchange for our review. All opinions are 100% my own. See our full disclosure policy for any questions.

Motivation Monday: Aphrodite: Inner Goddess Edition!

I love the message on this Aphrodite Tarot Card:

"Awaken the Goddess within you through dance, self-care, and appreciating your divinity"

On this motivation Monday do something to care for and awaken the Goddess within you, whether it's a full blown day in the spa, or just a long bath and lit candle. Nurture yourself today butterflies, your inner Goddess will thank you! (And Guys this applies to YOU too! Do something that makes you feel alive and happy!)

Happy Motivation Monday Butterfly - Wishing you a day of awakened divinity and inner light!

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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a sponsored post!

Weekly Moment of Gratitude + Giveaway Winner for the @Ascending1 July Monthly Book Club Title!

What I am grateful for:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - ? - These past four days have been so bad, that I have nothing to say. I guess with the year I had last year, I'm supposed to say 'getting one more day', but right now that doesn't feel like much of a consolation or a gift considering this has been an entirely un-bearable past week. Sorry butterflies, usually I'm good at finding silver linings, but I'm just plain not feeling very inspired. So I spent a few days not writing hoping I could find a way to put things in perspective for myself. Hopefully you have been having a better week than I have had and that you have great things to share to be grateful for. Maybe I can find some inspiration in your stories this week.

What are YOU most grateful for today Butterfly?

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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 Active Giveaways!  - http://tiny.cc/n4Thx

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Giveaway Winner:

Ascending Butterfly Monthly Book Club July 2013 Title

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - The Ascending Butterfly Monthly Book Club is Back and we have a winner for our July title, the winner's name is posted in the rafflecopter widget HERE, please join me in congratulating the winner, entry #14, Anita Yancey!

Please Note: Just a reminder to giveaway entrants, please follow mandatory entry instructions very carefully, some of you are not doing the mandatory entry which means you are not entered in the final draw. We eliminate the entries that do not follow the mandatory entry instructions BEFORE we go to draw the winner which means that those going into the final draw have followed all the entry instructions! (We like to keep things fair!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - UPCOMING GIVEAWAYS!: Our next giveaway is going to be another pick your prize promotion from one of our favorite intimate brand partners, so stay tuned! From Bridal lingerie, to loungewear to beachwear this giveaway will have you covered,

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ -Our Featured Monthly Handbag in the Spotlight is back too in case you missed July's featured handbag, click HERE. 

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Gratitude Journal Reco:

For those of you who are interested in keeping a gratitude journal this year, here is my recommendation and where to purchase it (I love that it gives you writing prompts for when you feel stuck on what to say!) You don't have to wait until January 1st to buy a new journal. I actually like to re-set my year and re-visit my goals on my birthday instead of new years eve, so make this a birthday gift for your spirit that you give yourself!

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

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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a sponsored post, all opinions are 100% my own. Journal Recommendation uses an Amazon Affiliate Link. Questions about our Disclosure? Please visit: http://www.ascendingbutterfly.com/p/disclosure-policy.html

Ascending Butterfly Featured #Handbag in the Spotlight: See why the @ElliottLucca Cordoba Flap Tote is our one to watch! + Learn about the 'Choose Your Karma' Campaign! #Fashion

I hope it's no where near as hot where you are as it is where I am. The summer heat is coming on strong here but that doesn't stop us New Yorkers from enjoying the City and all it has to offer! 

Things have been super busy around here and I just realized that our Featured Handbag in the Spotlight has gone dormant a lot longer than usual. So while you search for a cool breeze, I am going to share a HOT bag with you!

I know most people think casual tote bags when summer arrives, but for me, I still have business to do, so while a casual 'summery' tote is what I enjoy during weekends, I need a bag that says business during the week, but won't be too out of place when I attend events in the evenings straight after work.

The bag I have been loving pre-summer and so far right through it, is Elliott Lucca's Cordoba Flap Tote in the color 'Teal', exotic . You know how when you first change bags over it takes you awhile to get used to the new one? I didn't experience that with the Cordoba Flap Tote, it's all Fashion and it's just the right size, I also love the inner organizational compartments!

About the Cordoba Flap Tote:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Exterior: Leather

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Shiny Gold Tone Hardware

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Magnetic Closure

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Two Interior Compartments: Front Compartment features two multi-use, open pockets. Back Compartment features back wall pocket with zipper closure

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 13 in L X 5 in W X 9 in H

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Drop: 7 in

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Strap: 16 in

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Fringed Leather Tassel Accent

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Top Handles for hand toting or Leather and chain link Shoulder Strap

Ascending Butterfly is carrying the Elliott Lucca Cordoba Flap Tote in Teal Exotic, White Cardigan is by Jaclyn Smith Collection for Kmart and Trouser Jeans are by Coldwater Creek 

My Take:

I have been wearing my Cordoba Flap Tote in Teal Exotic everywhere, it's laid out in the inside just the way I like it, and there is room for a 'real camera', phone, tablet, sunglasses, and MORE! It's super roomy without being bulky, well organized and I love how versatile it is, it goes just as nicely with a suit as it does with jeans!

Get Social:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow @ElliottLucca via Twitter

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Like Elliott Lucca via Facebook

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Be Pin friends on Pinterest

CHOOSE YOUR KARMA CAMPAIGN:

As you know The Sak, Sakroots, and Elliott Lucca are all sister brands and Sakroots is currently offering a "Choose Your Karma" promotion where you pick your art of choice among a variety of beautiful prints including 'Peace Print', 'One World', 'Flower Power', 'Dreamland', 'Bambu', 'True Love', 'Water Nation', 'TreeHouse' and then you will have the choice to donate to one of the partner charities associated with each print and Sakroots will match ALL donations received!

If you pick Peace Print you can help The Nature Conservancy (one of my favorites! As you guys know I am a Wildlife Conservation Society Blogger Brand Ambassador here in New York City), One World styles go to Elephant Nature Park, Flower Power goes to NABA - North American Butterfly Association (and needless to say I LOVE that!), Dreamland print proceeds can be donated to NPH USA (Raising children. Transforming Lives), Bambu goes to World Bamboo, True Love goes to The HoneyBee Conservancy (as you know they are endangered, and while they can be annoying when they sting you, they serve an important purpose to our eco-system!), Water nation goes to the Whale and Dolphin Conservancy and last but not least, Tree House style bags go to Plant a Billion Trees! So you can express your style, AND give back which in my opinion is all the more reason to add a new handbag to your collection!

Sorry Butterflies we couldn't arrange for a giveaway this time around, but we hope to have Elliott Lucca back soon!

Tell us Butterflies, which 'Choose Your Karma' style would you choose and why?

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FTC Disclosure: We were provided with the Elliott Lucca Cordoba Flap Tote to facilitate our review, no monetary compensation has been received in exchange for our review. All opinions are 100% my own. See our full disclosure policy for any questions.

Wordless Wednesday: The 15 Things To Give Up Edition! #inspiration #motivation #empowerment

Bloggers feel free to post a link to your Wordless Wednesday Posts so we can check out your photos as well. (NO Giveaways Please, all comments will be moderated!) 

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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a Sponsored Post. Stay Wordless My Friends!

Why do you Love @IGIGI? Want to see why I do? + Sharing your story could net you some shopping $ #Fashion

I am a Latina with curves, and I'm super proud of them. Even at my 'smallest' weight number on the scale, my curves are still there and I love them. I'm very ahem 'blessed' on top, I have a small waist in proportion to the rest of me and great hips, I'm a true 'hourglass', normally that makes shopping for things like jeans and pantsuits difficult for me. A pantsuit for me is usually no fun to shop for, they come together but invariably I end up needing one size for the pants, and a different size for the jacket. Again a small waist and ample bottom also makes shopping for jeans pure torture. So when I find a brand that makes styles with my body type in mind, it's hard for me to refrain myself from shopping there all day long and buying everything up!

But let's face it, we have all reached a point where we are no longer buying something just because 'it fits'. That's just not enough anymore. After the roller-coaster year I had last year I am slowly but surely purging my closet of things that merely fit. If I don't LOVE something, it shouldn't be taking up valuable space.

My working environments pre-blogging and social media consulting, were all super corporate, so I'd stock up on classic suits and allow the accessories to do the talking in terms of trends and color. But now I'm slowly veering toward adding color to the clothes not just the accessories and experimenting with more dresses. And for me IGIGI has helped me make these transitions much more easily and effortlessly than I ever expected.

And I have put the fashions I have tried from them through their paces and everything wears well. I have reviewed some amazing styles from them in the past, the polyvore board I created putting together a great evening style feauturing one of IGIGI's most iconic dresses (the Ambrosia Dress) and their Hanna Coat still gets a ton of traffic (you can check that one out HERE) and I also mentioned the suit I am sharing with you today during my Getting Gorgeous recap coverage from New York City.

Now I know I just said I am trying to veer from all black, and I AM, I'm actually doing really well with it, but now that I'm out of a hospital bed and slowly getting back into my routines again I've lost so much weight that my favorite suits were all too big, and some just weren't really worth getting altered at this point. And I strongly want to start over in so many ways. The wonderful folks at IGIGI sent me a Black Suit (in a style called "Monroe") and a gorgeous Tunic Top in the color Scarlet (in a style called "Luella").

Here are some pictures of me wearing the suit and the top:

Tracy from Ascending Butterfly (ME!) is wearing the Monroe Pantsuit in Black and Luella Infinity Tunic in Scarlet by IGIGI by Yuliya Raquel, sunglasses are by Foster Grant!

This suit is comfortable and seasonless and the bright pop of scarlet from the top really helps pull it together!

Hamming it up with a Lei around my neck and fun Elvis Standee!

I definitely love this suit, and am glad I went bright with the top!

Here I am again on the far left, this time my Wilsons Leather Animal Print trench is on top of the Monroe Pant Suit by IGIGI. This suit is super comfortable and super versatile too!

My Take:

IGIGI is the perfect compliment to my curves and my wardrobe! From casual to dressy they offer a wide variety of sizes and styles and their clothes are cut with 'real women's curves' in mind!

WIN IT:

Want to win a $100 IGIGI shopping spree? Of course you do! The giveaway is not here, it's on IGIGI's facebook page, (it always pays to Get Social with our Brand Partners!), all you have to do is fill out a super quick entry with your name, email and age (will NOT be disclosed to anyone!) and then answer the question, Why do I love IGIGI? - Every 100th answer will win a $100 Gift Certificate to IGIGI. So make sure to enter HERE for your chance to win!

Check Out IGIGI's website and tell us what you would buy if you won the $100 Gift Certificate to IGIGI

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FTC Disclosure: No monetary compensation has been received to share our review, the Monroe Pantsuit and the Luella Tunic Top were provided for editorial consideration. All opinions expressed herein are 100% my own. IGIGI is the bomb dot com! For real! J

Monday Motivation: Hugs Edition - Just wanted to put a little pretty in your Monday!

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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a Sponsored Post.

Mani's & Pedi's & Hair Oh My! It's going to be a #PGSummer #Beauty #Cocktails @PGBeauty

#PGSummer Event Product Display Table

Remember when I told you had some fun summer events to recap? Here is one of my favorites, a summer beauty Mixology event that gave attendees the chance to mix up their summer beauty routines with P&G Beauty and enjoy an exclusive mixology lesson with acclaimed mixologist Elayne Duke!

After some time to mix and mingle, the evening started with a mixology lesson:

Acclaimed mixologist Elayne Duke teaches us how to mix some fun summer cocktails!

There is an art to shaking which some of us learned the hard way, I think the most re-tweeted quote of the evening was 'Wasted Booze is a Crime' which made us all laugh!

Like most things in life, it's all in the ratio/balance!

I will admit the cocktails were super refreshing for summer and I can't wait to try these out on my friends this summer!

That's me on the very left! We are holding up 'Double Trouble' one of the summer cocktails that Elayne Duke taught us how to prepare!

Here is a picture of the signature cocktail:

Wanna see a hot mama drinking a hot mama?

Tracy of Ascending Butterfly enjoying the Hot Mama Cocktail that she learned how to make!

COCKTAIL RECIPES

Double Trouble:

1.5 oz Vodka

1.5 oz Lime juice

1 oz Lemon Grass Syrup

1 oz Ginger Beer

.5 oz POM Syrup

Serving Instructions:

Glass: Highball

Garnish: Scored Lime and a straw

Hot Mama:

1.5 oz Gin

1 oz St. Germain

1 oz Aperol

1 oz Lemon Juice

Serving Instructions:

Glass: Coupe

Garnish: Lemon twist

Then it was time to explore the Beauty Stations! I got a braided updo, had my makeup touched up and enjoyed a manicure in the color I have been enjoying all summer Orange!

Outlast Stay Brilliant Nail Gloss

I just had to try a Manicure with CoverGirl Outlast Stay Brilliant Nail Gloss in color '245 - Go-Go Mango'. These Glossy Colors last about a week, and they have a built in top coat. Available in 45 High Gloss Shades! (I am so going to try out that blue one next!)

We got to build our own gift bags which was fun, with products including:

CoverGirl Outlast Stay Brilliant Nail Gloss, Vidal Sassoon Pro Series, the NEW Gillette Venus & Olay Razor, Secret Clinical Strength Waterproof Antiperspirant/Deodorant, VS PrecisionMix Color Creme Formula Hair Color, CoverGirl Outlast Stay Fabulous 3-in-1 Foundation, Olay Ultra Moisture Body Wash, Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Eye & Lash Duo, Natural Instincts Hair Color, Head & Shoulders Damage Rescue, Complete All Day Moisturizer with Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 15, Vidal Sassoon Pro Series Color Collection The Color Protect Shampoo & Conditioner as well as The Color Protect Spray, CoverGirl New Clump Crusher by LashBlast Mascara, CoverGirl BlastFlipStick, New Pantene Age Defy Collection.

My Take:

This was a fun way for P&G Beauty to share great products with us in a venue with a great view and a fun, relaxed summer vibe. I enjoyed getting my hair done, makeup re-touched and my great Orange Manicure too! But the Mixology lessons just might be my favorite, we were all surprised at just how refreshing the Double Trouble was as few of us had actually tried Ginger Beer and we all expected it to be over-powering but it wasn't. The Hot Mama was delish also!

DID YOU KNOW?:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - The amount of sunscreen needed to cover the entire body is about a shot glass full (and if you are curvy like me, a bit more wouldn't hurt!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - For the face on average you need the size of an almond.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Summer sun is especially dangerous UV intensity tends to be highest during the summer months.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Long Car rides a big part of your summer? Glass does NOT block UVA. Glass filters UVB, but if light shines through, so does UVA.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Eyes age 36% faster than the rest of a woman's body so it's super important to protect them from summer rays!

And of course you can see these photos on our #PGSummer Pinterest Board too!

Butterflies, what P&G Beauty Products are part of your summer beauty routine?

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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a compensated post. This is an event recap, and no compensation has been received to share our recap coverage, all opinions are 100% my own.

July 12 is National Pecan Pie Day! + other fun observances!

Today is a day where those with different colored eyes should have a slice of Pecan Pie in honor of Thoreau's Birth Anniversary and Simplicity Day!

LOL. Simple Enough right?

Today is:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Different Colored Eyes Day

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - National Pecan Pie Day

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - The birth anniversary of Henry David Thoreau

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - and last but not least Simplicity Day. (Had technology been cooperative today, my day certainly would have been more simple!

Did you observe any of these? Do any of you have two different color eyes? Tag us on facebook or twitter, we'd love to see a picture!

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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a Sponsored Post!

Unplug your summer and keep cool with the @BowlAtAMF Summer Unplugged and Summer Pass! #bowling

Have you already exhausted your arsenal of keeping the entire family entertained during the summer? If so, I have a way for you to both beat the heat and provide the family some fun summer entertainment, best part? It's absolutely FREE for Kids ages 15 and under!

SUMMER UNPLUGGED DEETS:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Time: FREE Bowling for KIDS 15 and Under until 8:00 pm, 7 days a week

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Dates: May 14 - September 3, 2013

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Parents click HERE to select a participating center (there are over 250 locations!) and complete a super simple registration form

NOTE: You can register up to six children in the program. There are also $3.29 Kids Meals Available. (And it's way more active than just watching a movie!)

SUMMER PASS DEETS:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Don't think the kids get all the fun! - Check out the deals for those 16 and up:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - An AMF Summer Pass is only $34.95 and includes 2 FREE Games for the Pass Owner per day for up to FOUR people (the owner of the pass and three guests) ALL SUMMER LONG (the same dates and times apply that we listed above for Summer Unplugged)

Worth Noting: Neither Summer Unplugged nor Summer Pass will include shoe rental (I personally own my own bowling shoes, it's something you might want to consider as well!)

My Take:

They've made some improvements for 2013, with one simple sign-up there are now no coupons to be emailed or printed, now you just present your membership card or your name at your local AMF bowling center and you are all set to go which is super convenient. Summer Unplugged Members can also enjoy the "Stay and Play" option, additional games can be added for just $1.49 which is definitely cheaper than it costs at most competing centers near me.

I don't get to go bowling as often as I'd like because of my insane schedule, but I do enjoy it. When I worked in staffing we'd host client/talent bowling nights often and we'd make up crazy gutterball dances! I might just have to pick up a summer pass myself and get back into it again!

What are YOUR best bowling tips Butterflies?

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FTC Disclosure: I participated in this campaign as a member of One2One Network and am eligible for a prize drawing. All opinions expressed herein are 100% my own, please be sure to visit our Disclosure Page for more information about our Giveaway and Disclosure Policies.

Wordless Wednesday: #Cheesecake and #milk @ParkerMeridien New York City! #NYC #wordlesswednesday #lifestyleblogger

Had a gap between events on a hot summer day in New York City and thought I'd kill the time with this:

Cold Milk and a New York Style Cheesecake at Le Parker Meridien Hotel in Midtown , New York City

Happy Wordless Wednesday Butterflies! Bloggers feel free to post the link to your Wordless Wednesday Photo as a comment so we can visit your photos too. (No Giveaways Please, Only WW posts)

And don't forget to leave a comment on THIS post (it could lead to something great for YOU!) And don't forget to enter to win our Ascending Butterfly Book Club Title of the Month - Pancho Land! Also, if you haven't already done so, I need your VOTE. (If for some reason it opens up to all the entries, my entry is Tracy from New York City and I am wearing an Orange Jacket! This is a one time only, super quick, super easy vote!)

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

FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a sponsored post. No monetary compensation has been received to share this photo, all opinions expressed herein are 100% my own.

I can finally fuel my designer #handbag obsession & get great prices, seriously folks there is #MoreatSears than meets the eye!

#Sponsored: This is a Sponsored Post written by Ascending Butterfly on behalf of Sears via the Niche Mommy Network & Conference

It's no surprise to long time followers that I have a handbag obsession. I will never own enough handbags. If there were a support group, I'd be it's President. Since 2009 we have featured a 'Featured Monthly Handbag in the Spotlight' on Ascending Butterfly, it's included both established and emerging brands /designers and probably just about every color of handbag under the sun.

I recently found out a handbag I have been coveting by a major designer is being dis-continued (I know right GASP!) so I went on an online hunt to see who still had it (My top three favorite Manhattan Department Stores were already sold out, UM serious LE SIGH!), and after scrolling was super surprised to find out Sears actually has it, so I skipped off to my nearest store, and they didn't have it. NOT COOL (My city is in the midst of a major heatwave, zapping me of any desire to be outside, walking or moving in general.)

Remember how I was telling you yesterday that the blogging Gods & the Universe have been sending me all kinds of signals? When this info hit my email inbox I have to admit it made me laugh. Not in a bad way, just in a not surprised way because I actually inadvertently discovered this revelation on my own, and I'm more than happy to let you guys in on the secret.

As a curvy Latina one of my biggest pet peeves is finding a super sweet outfit in the store, (or go looking for a coveted handbag), and then find out someone else snatched up the last one. To resolve this very issue, Sears has expanded its website. In fact, the Sears website is now WAY larger than the stores. Sears.com carries more sizes and colors than you can find at your local Sears. And for last minute shoppers, have no fear you can buy it online, schedule an in store pickup and Sears guarantees that they will have your item ready in 5 minutes or less, if they don't, you'll get a $5 in store coupon. (Um, even those pizza folks make you wait 30 minutes before making it up to you for the slow service! Just Saying!)

Aside from having more colors and sizes on the website, Sears.com carries more brands and styles online than they do in store. They really have 'stepped up their retail game' with brands like Ray Ban, Michael Kors, DeWalt Tools, Steve Madden, Nike, Vince Camuto, and one I've been obsessed with for a long time, Tory Burch. (You can't tell me that Capital T Logo of theirs didn't have ME in mind!)

Check out the Newest Arrivals at Sears Market Place!

Screen Capture of Sears.com Front Loader Washers - New Arrivals!

I don't know about you, but this mercury retrograde has been wreaking havoc on my appliances and electronics so I am researching a few major purchases (for after the retrograde dust clears of course) including a new Washer/Dryer, Refrigerator, and hoping somewhere in there I can squeeze in that handbag I'm lusting after, before it totally sells out!

What will YOU buy at Sears.com today?

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FTC Disclosure: This is a Sponsored Post written by Ascending Butterfly on behalf of Sears via the Niche Mommy Network & Conference, however all opinions expressed herein are 100% my own. See our Full Disclosure Policy for additional information.