Keeping #Health and #Fitness in Focus this Fall with @BuluBox #SubscriptionBox

September 2014 Bulu Box

My October Bulu Box is on it's way and I realized I forgot to share my September Box! 

I have been super over-committed lately and this pace will probably just increase through the holidays so it's great I have Bulu Box to keep me going with great health, weight management and fitness products to keep me fueled for my busy life.

Let's dive into this box in alphabetical order!

The September 2014 Bulu Box Included:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - KIND Healthy Grains Oat & Honey Toasted Coconut Bar - With a foundation of 5 super grains (oats, millet, quinoa, amaranth and buckwheat), gluten free oats that are sweetened with honey and toasted coconut flakes, these are chewy with a crunch! I for one love to have bars in my purse and desk, in case my public transportation commute runs into un-expected delays or I am in a rush and have to skip breakfast. Bars are always a great quick breakfast go-to for me.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Manitoba Harvest HempPro 70 - This plant based hemp protein supplement packs 14g of protein, 2.7 g OMEGA 3 and 6, is water soluble and mixes easily into any drink or you can stir it into yogurt or hot cereal! As it has all essential amino acids it's a great complement to any vegan or vegetarian diet! Smoothie anyone?

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - NuHair For Women Styling Foam - A styling foam with a Natural Peptide Complex that can defend against hair follicle damage and graying hair, nourish hair follicles for fuller more beautiful hair and energize the hair follicles for healthy hair growth as well as revitalize hair texture to add shine? YES, PLEASE!!! Don't hate but I don't have Gray hair so I can't speak to whether or not that part is true because I don't have them, but I do have naturally thin hair so I love trying out thickeners and the foam application is truly easy, this product has no sulfates, parabens, petrolatum, mineral oil or phthalates but it does have Shea Butter, Grape Seed Extract, Chamomile, Sage, and Rosemary and is a DHT inhibtitor. As both men and women age their levels of DHT increase, and increased DHT levels lead to hair loss or thinning hair. As I use it longer I will report back on how well it works for thinning.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Powbab Superfruit Chews - Powbab immunity boosting superfruit chews contain Baobab fruit pulp which is high in anti-oxidants (more so in fact than pomegranate, blueberry, acai, and cranberry!) and they are high in Vitamin C (more Vitamin C than kiwi, strawberry, orange or grapefruit) and contains 12 minerals and vitamins. This chew actually combines pomegranate and acai berry with Boabab - giving you a 'superfood' in a super portable chew. Again I love having immunity boosters in my bag or desk so I don't forget to do something good for myself each and everyday!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - ClearLungs Chest Rub - All natural blend of aromatic oils and Chinese herbs to help sooth coughs and colds, relieve congestion and breath easier! It can also be used on muscles and joints to relieve minor aches and pain, Ridgecrest Chest Rub has been the #1 natural lung health product in the United States for almost 16 years. With winter swiftly approaching here in the North East I am going to need to stock up on this for sure!


Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Swirl Tea - Iced Green Tea in just 10 minutes with convenient stick packs that you just drop into a cold water bottle. Made with premium quality all natural green tea leaves and has no preservatives or artificial additives. Green Tea is a natural source of antioxidants and helps to combat free radicals which helps revitalize the body on a cellular level. (10 minutes for a light brew and 30 for a full-bodied flavor) - and did I tell you there is NO calories or sugar!

GET SOCIAL:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Like Bulu Box on Facebook

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow @BuluBox via Twitter

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Get with the pin program via Pinterest too

DISCOUNT:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Join the Bulugan Nation, Nab a box at a 50% discount by entering code:  BULUGAN707 - or pressing on the banner ad below directly!

MY TAKE:

This was an excellent box and I am looking forward to seeing how the styling foam works for me over time!

Have you tried Bulu Box? If you have, do you have a favorite product that you learned about via Bulu? If you haven't tried them yet, which of the products in this box featured above would you most like to try?

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FTC Disclosure: No monetary compensation has been received. A Bulu Box has been provided to Ascending Butterfly for Editorial Consideration. As always, all opinions are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

How has this Mercury Retrograde Wreaked Havoc on YOUR life so far?

Great Advice from Spiritual Spew - Practicing Patience and the art of 'non-reaction' is still something I am working on!

For those of you who are not clear what a Mercury Retrograde means, it is when the Planet Mercury slows down and appears to 'stop' (or station) and move 'backwards' (retrograde), this happens three to four times per year.

I found the graphic I used above via websearch on a blog called Spiritual Spew, you should check out the original article this photo is attributed to HERE. And no, I don't know her and this is NOT a sponsored post or plug in any way for anyone, just real talk.

They say during a Mercury Retrograde that you should NOT engage in any binding contracts (you are to postpone signing any contracts until after the Retrograde period is over), expect delays while travelling, don't buy electronic equipment or a new car, and do not go in surgery that is avoidable. You should also take caution while speaking (or in a writers case while writing) as your words may come out in a way you didn't intend them to. During this time period many people experience computer problems or phone lines going down. (This has definitely been happening to me!)

Interesting also to note, a lost idea or person can come back into your life, sometimes someone with a mysterious 'pull' on your psyche. We are to draw hope that this retro back in air signs (those born under the zodiac signs of Libra, Aquarius and Gemini) is allowing us to take a mental review of our mind and it's patterns and what conclusion we draw from our experiences. The positive of this particular retrograde is that it is supposed to be allowing us to see our past from a different angle or perspective.

Great Advice from the folks at Illuminating Souls!

I personally don't remember any retrograde period that I have seen referenced so much as I have this one. Apparently this one is hitting many hard.

For me so far, people from my past have in fact re-surfaced, people who were absolute back-stabbers and sneaky snakes who took way more from my time and energy than they ever added to it and I have refused to re-connect with any of them on any level.

At the end of the day a Mercury Retrograde is also considered a time of 'fated' events. I for one, feel very much like I am at a crossroads in my life. Personally, Professionally, and Spiritually. I feel this retrograde while almost nearing its completion, will reveal a lot more.

This is the last retro for 2014, a fact for which I for one am very much grateful! Take note of any major themes that occur for you during this retrograde period. If you are prone to keeping a journal, this time period will probably offer you some very interesting reads when you look back at this time in your life!

Butterflies how has this Mercury Retrograde Period affected your life? 

(and it is so sad I need to add this, but bible thumpers do NOT try to comment about the evils of astrology, I am just plain not the one, I moderate all comments and will not only delete them but I will block you also, no trolls allowed! Engagement and Conversation always welcome, negativity however is NOT!)

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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a Sponsored Post. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

{#WordlessWednesday} @CarvelIceCream Carvel Ice Cream Cake anyone? (Yes that's an @IGIGI Dress I'm wearing!) {#Photo}

What I'm wearing: Dress: Igigi, Pendant: Macy's, Handbag: Nicole Miller, Cake: Carvel Ice Cream Cake taken during Mom 2.0 Summit in Atlanta, Georgia!

Happy Wordless Wednesday Butterflies! Bloggers link us to your WW post as a comment below! (No Giveaway links!)

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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a Sponsored Post. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

The #Beauty Brands that @beautypress September 2014 Spotlight Day put on my radar! {#Photos}

The team at Beauty Press hosted a Spotlight Day at Midtown Loft & Terrace in New York City and put some great Beauty Brands on my radar! I thought I'd share them all with you and include some photos too.

Packing the bite of a conference and networking seminar into two sessions isn't easy, but they sure make it look like it is!

Here are the Exhibitors in Alphabetical Order:

Pictured Above: ACNEase Botanical Herbal Supplements

ACNEase - All-botanical acne treatment that helps to break the cycle of acne from the inside out, they boast a 96% user success rate! I am currently trying out the supplement myself and will report back soon on my progress with it. I have always had Acne and would prefer to actually treat it, than just cover it up! They were super approachable and the supplements are meant to be taken based on the severity of your acne as well as your weight so you get the right amount. There are no negative side effects, no over dry skin, nor is there a need to hide from the sun as you might with a cosmetic acne formulation skincare product. (as always butterflies please check with your primary doc before adding on any supplement, it is always better to err on the side of caution!) - I opted to use the 'pro-photog's' shot as it came out clearer than mine did! :)

Bodyography Professional Cosmetics - They gave me ice and shade and butterflies you know how I feel about that, if you give me shade I serve it to you right back. I took no pictures and as I didn't like their attitude if you are interested in them, google them. I have no time for snotty people nor do I have free ad space for them either. I truly don't get why brands appear at conferences or events that obviously don't really want to be there. Color me confused. I found it amusing they were trading product samples with other vendors, but wouldn't offer them to the Editors/Bloggers in attendance. I can only give back what I was given, which in this case is absolutely nothing.

Pictured Above: CLEANSE by Lauren Napier

CLEANSE by Lauren Napier - Luxury cleansing wipes and makeup remover, remove even long-wear formulation makeup as well as impurities from the skin. Much like ACNEase she believes Beauty comes from within and the facial cleansing wipes are hypoallergenic, dermatologist tested and are even safe for contact lens wearers! She tested the wipe on Mama Butterfly who was truly surprised at just how much it picked up and the amount of impurities in addition to just the makeup it took off her skin, I got to test mine out that night and have fallen in love with them myself. She is right, what you take OFF is just as important as what you put on. With the 'liquid' element of these wipes coming from Aloe, you are removing makeup AND hydrating your skin!

Pictured Above: KISS Products gel Fantasy Ready-To-Wear Gel

Kiss Products - Often times at events I have to pass on the Manicures because waiting for them to dry and shaking hands with people you meet don't go hand-in-hand, (pun sort of intended.) With KISS Products you have the shine of a Gel Manicure with Press-On-Nails that apply easily with adhesive and can be removed by popping off or using regular acetone if one is particularly stuck on. I was impressed with how well these really held up, I'm constantly typing which makes regular manicures chip so easily (or I somehow always manage to run my the zipper of my handbag across freshly manicured nails and ruin them!) with these I didn't have to worry and I could go about my routine as usual! After my recent makeup debacle where a supposed 'celeb makeup artist' made my eyes turn dragon fire red after he ran a mascara wand directly across my eyeball I skipped the lashes station, so thankfully Mama Butterfly took one for the team and tried the lashes which she loved, and we both got imPRESS Gel Press on Manicures in the exact same color and we weren't anywhere near each other when we picked our colors, TWINSIES! They were a popular station and super fun.

KISS Products imPRESS Press-On Halloween Manicure products at beautypress September 2014 Spotlight Day

Above: And because you know I love all things horror and spooky, I had to nab a shot of their Halloween display and nail art! We got some of these in our bags and I'll post a shot of mine when I put them on!

Check Out my KISS Products imPRESS Press-On Manicure at beautypress September 2014 Spotlight Day

Above: For me a Mani that can withstand how hard I hit the keyboard is a total winner in my book. I'm rough on my nails and don't have much time to maintain them so KISS imPRESS Products are perfect for me, this lasted a full week before the adhesive on one nail finally gave. So I removed them all but some were still so strong I did have to use a bit of acetone to remove them I will definitely keep these in stock! Because really waiting for nails to dry is so RETRO!

KISS Products Gift Bags at beautypress September 2014 Spotlight Day

Above: Whoever packed these gift bags deserves a hug, I'm a master packer and the way the person who put these together managed to really stuff it with goodies and leave no space wasted is  truly impressive! Tons of goodies to review so keep an eye out for individual product reviews.

Pictured Above: Lavera Cosmetics Displayed at beautypress September 2014 Spotlight Day

Lavera - (Just a heads up their site has moved, well technically 'True Natural' is Lavera's North American Sister Brand, but I'm sending you to the temp landing page because there is a 10% Discount using promo code: NEWSITE) Lavera translates to 'truth' and they have been pioneering natural beauty in Germany since 1987. What began as a handful of products to address sensitive skin, has grown into more than 300 products of organic/natural skin care and makeup for ALL skin types. Had to use the pro-shot here, as mine was a bit too grainy.

Spadet Team treats press to their 'Bombettes' at beautypress September 2014 Spotlight Day

SPAdet - Founder and Creator Annabelle Santos took her background in biochemistry and holistic health to discover a way to resolve her daughter's chronic eczema and led to the creation of her first natural skin products. I loved the zen esthetic of the packaging and that their products are free of all toxic chemicals!

Pictured Above: Sweet Anthem Perfumes at beautypress September 2014 Spotlight Day

Sweet Anthem Perfumes  - This independent American Perfumery was founded in 2001 and is now located in West Seattle. They offer 'bottled stories' you can read on your skin that are based on legends, lore, literature and scenes from perfumer Meredith Smith's own life. I had done a bit of due diligence when the exhibitor line up was released and went straight for scents with my favorite notes of Amber, Sandalwood, Musk, Frankincense, Myrrh and fell in love with quite a few of their scents! They are definitely one to watch!

Not pictured but included in the Editor Review Bag:

derma e - A Family-Owned and Operated company for 30 years, their vitamin-rich, high-performance antioxidant skincare solutions features over 80 products free of parabens, phtalates, mineral oil or petrolatum!

Happy Hands - We originally featured the UV Nail Glove in the coverage of the Beauty Press Spotlight Day on the Zephyr Yacht HERE. The first time around we didn't have a chance to get samples so I'm so glad to see they were included in the bags as I think this is a great idea to protect skin from UV rays especially from shellac/gel manicures!

Xtreme Lashes - Founded by Jo Mousselli, a registered nurse in 2005, their semi-permanent eyelash line of products is perfect for those with 'sparse' lashes who want a little more va-va-voom with their lashes! Check out the specially marked Blink Pink Campaign Products, they will donate 5% of proceeds to MD Anderson Cancer Center and you can get 15% off using promo code: XC14BLINKPINK

My Take:

There was a great mix of 'new-to-me' brands, and new products from brands I knew well which is one of the reasons I make it a point not to miss Beauty Press Spotlight Day!

Butterflies which brand resonates most with you? Which one would you most like to try? Let them know you saw them featured on Ascending Butterfly so we can hopefully come back with something fun for YOU too!

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FTC Disclosure: I am a member of the Beauty Press Network. This is NOT a compensated post, it is an event recap. This is NOT a sponsored post and all opinions are 100% my own! Gift Bags and Press Samples of many of the brands featured were provided. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

Would cooking 2 dishes at 2 different temps at the SAME time cut #holidayprep time? These @BestBuy Stoves can help!

#ad: Ascending Butterfly is a member of Best Buy's WOLF Blogger Program and is also a Brand Ambassador and Blogger Advisory Board Member and this is a Sponsored Post. Compensation in the form of a Best Buy Gift Card and/or product/services at no or reduced cost has been exchanged, as always, all opinions are my own!

As I don't own a house or a fireplace for that matter, I won't be roasting any chestnuts on an open fire this holiday season. However, as an apartment dweller in the North East United States, I can be pretty much assured that Jack Frost will be nipping at my nose!

I don't have a ton of time during the week so anything that cuts down the time I spend in the kitchen is pretty much a life saver for me. I've got my eye on some Kitchen Appliances from Best Buy that offer the latest technology and innovations to help me cut down the prep time.

Because I am a renter I'm forced to stay with Gas, but wanted to present you with more than just one option.

Frigidaire - Gallery 30" Self-Cleaning Freestanding Electric Convection Induction Range - Model: FGIF3061NF:

Press on the image above to purchase this Frigidaire Unit with Induction Technology directly at Best Buy!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Induction Cooking

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Boil water in UNDER two minutes! (I love to cook Italian and Pasta dishes, this would save me so much time!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Smudge Proof Stainless Steel

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Easy to wipe cooktop that does not scorch food

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - One of the racks automatically pulls out when you open the oven door (no more 'oven steam facials')

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ -  5 cooktop elements - between 100W and 3800W of power

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Keep-warm element

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Simmer element

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - True Convection Technology

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Storage Drawer

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Self-cleaning oven

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Sabbath Mode

Notable: So far this appliance has all five star ratings from consumers on Best Buy's Website! (For those of you skeptical about blog reviews, these reviews are from consumers. I personally read reviews across a variety of sites before I purchase anything, especially anything tech or appliance so I'm sure you do too!) a 3-or-4-prong power cord is required and does not come with the unit but can be purchased from Best Buy and the installers are also required to install an anti-tip bracket (they will do so at no additional charge) but if you refuse the installation of the anti-tip bracket it will result in a drop off only delivery only and no connections will be completed.

Whirlpool - 30" Self-Cleaning Freestanding Double Oven Gas Range - Stainless Steel - Model: WGG555S0BS:

Press on the image above to purchase this Whirlpool Self-Cleaning Double Oven Gas Range directly at Best Buy!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 6.0 cu. ft total oven capacity (2.1 cu. ft upper and 3.9 cu. ft. lower oven capacity)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Electronic Clock and Timer

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Full-width cast-iron gates - since they cover the entire cooking surface, you can place pots and pans anywhere on the cooktop

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 4 Burners - Power Burner for Quick Boiling, Searing or Frying (15,000 BTUs), two 9,200 BTU burners and a 5,000 BTU AccuSimmer burner that gives a more gentle heat for melting chocolate or simmering sauces.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - AccuBake System - Built in sensor monitors oven temperatures and controls the cooking elements for consistent results

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Keep-warm setting uses low heat to keep food from getting cold.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - For my Jewish Friends - Sabbath Mode to comply with kosher cooking practices

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - PreciseClean self-cleaning technology - cleans only as long as it needs to to save energy

Notable: Gas Connector is sold separately for this model and is NOT included.

My Take:

Since our rental unit is not wired for an electric stove, I am totally leaning toward the Whirlpool model as I'm restricted to sticking with a Gas model for now. But I love just how feature rich the Gas model is so I won't feel like I am sacrificing or giving up features I would like just because I am currently restricted to Gas.

Check out Best Buy Holiday Prep to get more ideas!

Which of the two would you select for your kitchen butterflies, and tell us why?

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FTC Disclosure: I am a Best Buy Brand Ambassador. This allows me to share information, sales, product reviews and deals on a regular basis! As a Best Buy Ambassador I receive products for editorial consideration, use affiliate links in my posts and am sometimes with compensated with Best Buy Gift Cards as well. All opinions are 100% my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may visit our full giveaway and disclosure page for complete policy information.

Fall Wardrobe Upgrade with @Macys Challenge! @polyvore #Contest Entry #fbloggers

Fall Upgrade with Macy's Challenge - Polyvore Contest Entry

Sheath Dress, Smoking Hot Booties, Statement Necklace and Leather Jacket! I love getting high fashion at great prices with Macy's for Fall!

Butterflies you know I can't resist a good Polyvore Challenge, I love getting creative and making new Polyvore Boards, and with this contest the incentive was just too great to pass up! If you like my board, please click HERE and give it a quick heart!

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FTC Disclosure: This is a contest entry, not a compensated post. As always, all opinions are 100% my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

Wash away that "Frizz Halo" with @Aveda 's #AvedaNaturallyStraight #Haircare System! @SheSpeaksUp

Instead of washing that man right out of your hair, do you ever wish you could wash that curl/wave/frizz right out of your hair instead?

Fall isn't all pumpkin and cozy sweaters folks, there is rain, and GASP there is still humidity!

I recently cut off over 13 inches of hair to donate to Pantene's Beautiful Lengths Program for Women With Cancer (if you missed that post, check it out HERE), and while it doing felt great, it also left me with hair way shorter than I have ever cut mine before. The shorter my hair is, the wavier it gets, which to some would be a blessing in disguise as it's naturally thin so the curls do give it body, except my hair in addition to being very thin is also super frizz prone, so while I actually do love my natural wave pattern, I do not love the frizz that comes with it.

To keep the frizz monster at bay I tend to blow dry AND flat iron my hair regularly. This pattern is very much a 'catch 22'. I blow dry then flat iron to knock out the frizz and wear my hair straighter, but doing so does weaken the hair over time making it more split prone. Once you have split ends you tend to have to cut them off to get the hair back to a healthier place.

I may have just found an end to the cycle!

About Aveda Naturally Straight:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Progressively loosens curls every time you style

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - While Chemical Laden Straighteners also change hair's natural texture, Aveda's mixture of Pure Flower and Plant Essences do not change your hair's texture, it works from the outside, adding a surface layer to the hair that loosens curls with each use

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - A barrier of tapioca starch and maize forms a humidity barrier to help you fend off frizz in even extreme humidity

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Uplifting Aroma - features a citrus-floral blend containing bergamot, palmarosa, Turkish Rose and wild-harvested Australian Sandalwood (not to get all political on you, but in other countries the trees are un-ethically poached, Aveda gets it's Sandalwood Oil from Western Australia where the tree is actually a protected species by the Government and they use indigenous harvesters which has been an aid to the aboriginal people of Western Australia - it's another small way YOU can make a big difference and have a say about the sustainability of this planet and the living wage we all deserve to have! Put your money where your politics is butterfly!)

How to use:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Step 1: Wash hair with Aveda Smooth Infusion Shampoo, follow with Aveda Smooth Infusion Conditioner. Towel Dry Hair and Comb Through (aka de-tangle)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Step 2: Apply Aveda Smooth Infusion Style-Prep Smoother to damp hair, work it through from the mid-shaft through to your ends.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Step 3:  Apply Aveda Smooth Infusion Naturally Straight based on your hair's length and thickness, start by using a small coin size drop (think about a dime size) on towel-dried hair one section at a time.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Step 4: Blow Dry hair straight (the larger the brush, think a large round or paddle the straigher your results will be) Flat iron if a sleeker result is desired.

Insider Tip:

Watch this video which shows Aveda working directly on four hair types to show how the Smooth Infusion line works with hair that is naturally straight but frizzy, hair that is wavy, hair that is coily and they give you a tip on just how to measure your hair to determine the amount of product needed.

Yes count me totally jelly that I wasn't invited to get my hair done at Aveda!

My Take:

The Aveda Smooth Infusion System is working well for me, I have actually not put a flat iron to my hair since I started with this system so I'm noticing a remarkable difference with way less split ends in my hair, Blow drying it has actually been enough which for me has never happened before, since it's shorter I want motion, body and bounce, and I get just that using these products without my flat iron. I love the system as a whole, but the smooth infusion Naturally Straight was the super star of the entire line for me as it made detangling my hair a breeze and I find that the system has also cut down my time spent blow-drying my hair significantly. Anything that gets me out the door faster and keeps the frizz monster at bay is definitely aces in my book.

There are literally NO cons here for me. I would actually advise you to use a bit LESS than you may think you need which is a pro in my book as the product will last longer!

Now please remember you should still blow dry for a straighter finish especially the first few times you use it, but once it builds up depending on just how straight a final look you are looking to achieve you may even be able to skip blowing your hair every now and again.

I found myself tugging at my hair way less to get it straight, it de-tangled my hair quickly and easily and cut my drying time, TOTAL SCORE!

Have you tried Aveda before Butterflies? Which product in their line works best for YOU?

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

FTC Disclosure: This is a sponsored post for Aveda in conjunction with SheSpeaks. As always, all opinions are 100% my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

{#Review} @NintendoAmerica 2DS with #TomodachiLife #NintendoatBestBuy

Don't worry I haven't forgotten that there are in fact several upcoming holidays before Christmas, but this year I am planning some much needed time off which means I have to move up Holiday recommendations if I want you to see them BEFORE the actual holidays! (Yes Halloween is still one of my favorite days! and while you could technically fit this gift idea into a pumpkin, you are probably not going to want to buy one for all the kids in the neighborhood. Unless you are rich and feeling particularly generous!)

There are already a ton of reviews out there that will tell you just how great the Nintendo 2DS is for kids, but since I don't have children I can only report just how much fun I have been having with it! (and please don't tell niece and nephew butterfly about this, let's keep it between us because I am NOT sharing mine!)

Press on the image above to purchase the Nintendo 2DS directly at Best Buy!

About the Nintendo 2DS:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Dual-Core ARM Processor

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 4GB SD Card Included

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 3.5 inch, 400x240 upper display

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 3-inch, 320x240 lower display

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 1300mAH Battery, should give you about 3.5-5.5 hours of play on 3DS Titles (yep you can play 3DS titles on the 2DS) and up to 5-9 hours of battery power playing regular DS games.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Built in WiFi

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Retails for $129.99

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Early Childhood Setting if you want to lock kids out of games that may not be appropriate for them yet!

Press on the image above to purchase Tomadachi Life directly at Best Buy!

About the Tomodachi Life Game for Nintendo:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Create Mii's of your fave celebs - (Great I can be more popular on Tomodachi Life Island than I am on Manhattan Island LOL!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Foodie Fun - You can feed your Mii's what they love (or for fun feed them things they hate just to watch what happens!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Love and Marriage, then comes your Mii with a Baby Carriage - Yes you can experience love, romance, marriage, and the joys of family (this game is the closest my mom is coming to Grandchildren! LOL)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Looks and Sound - You can create Mii's that look like you and your pals and give each their own voice and personality!




Insider Tips:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - It doesn't have a Wi-Fi Toggle button, so use the sleep switch on your device to be sure you don't burn through your battery power!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Connect your game to the Streetpass and you might experience travelers stopping by and camping out on your Island to interact with everyone!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - As it's not a clam shell design, it's not like you can close it, to put it to sleep. And you may want to buy it a protector of some sort to keep the screen scratch free and to not worry about it banging around your bag (or for kids in their backpack)

My Take:

As a daily commuter via public transportation I can tell you this is a lifesaver to kill time during the long commute, it's just sad that my virtual 'Mii' is living a more rich, dynamic life than I am right now! While this device is kid friendly I have absolutely no intention of sharing mine!

This device is perfect for children under 7 as the 3D is not recommended for the younger children, and it's non-foldable design will help prevent broken hinges if your child is accident prone (or for adult female gamers if your handbag like mine is a war zone!)

And did I mention that mine is RED!!!!

Definitely a great Holiday Gift for kids and 'kids at heart' of all ages on your shopping list this holiday season!

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

FTC Disclosure: Affiliate links are used (so please shop away!). I was provided with a Nintendo 2DS and Tomodachi Life Game by Best Buy to facilitate my review. All opinions are expressly my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may visit our full giveaway and disclosure page for complete policy information.