Tuesday, December 23, 2014

The five funniest @elfontheshelf Photos across the interwebs + why the elf now sticks around past the holidays!

Elf on the Shelf A Birthday Tradition
Elf on the Shelf A Birthday Tradition


Earlier this year I got to attend the Niche Parent Network's New York City Meetup at Dylan's Candy Bar hosted by Elf on the Shelf. I got to attend the Niche Parent Conference in it's inaugural year in 2012 (when it was branded as Niche Mommy, here is my recap of that conference in case you missed it: http://www.ascendingbutterfly.com/2012/08/weekly-moment-of-gratitude-new-orleans.html) and this year different cities held pre-conference meetups before this year's conference. Since I wasn't able to attend the conference this year, I am glad I had the opportunity to attend the NYC meetup.

As I am not a mom and do not have children, I learned quite a bit about Elf on the Shelf as I was not familiar with the tradition or the company's backstory. Lisa of the blog Atypical Familia is a niche parent ambassador and she coordinated the NYC meetup. In attendance at the meetup was Christa Pitts. Christa, who is the daughter of Carol Aebersold and sister of Chanda Bell who are the co-authors of Elf on the Shelf.  It seems the original story went through quite a bit of rejections before they got a yes, and as an entrepreneur I really enjoyed hearing about how the tradition evolved into a book and how the book and elf are now a part of the holiday tradition in so many homes.

Christa Pitts from Elf on the Shelf
Christa Pitts from Elf on the Shelf

I love this flipagram video that Lisa posted of the event (if you don't blink you will catch ME in the video too!):




Throughout the years I have seen some funny Elf photos on the internet and I couldn't resist sharing a few here!

Here are five super funny Elf on the Shelf Photos from across the interwebs:

She poops peppermints, gotta love it! (Via Flickr)


Chug! Chug! Chug! (Via Flckr)


Maybe the peppermint poops are cuter, LOL! (Via Flckr)


The Sons of Anarchy Edition! LOL (Via Flckr)


Gotta keep fit for all the Elf on the Shelf Hijinx! (Via Pinterest)


But wait there's MORE:

Elf on the Shelf A Birthday Tradition
Elf on the Shelf A Birthday Tradition


Elf on the Shelf now has a Birthday Tradition! There is a book which outlines the little-known story of how Santa's helpers celebrate birthdays at the North Pole and each kit includes instructions for inviting your scout elf for a birthday visit as well as a festive birthday outfit. There is also a Birthday Countdown and Game and the Birthday Chair Decoration Kit too!

Group photo of bloggers at the #NicheParent14 Elf on the Shelf New York City Meetup
Group photo of bloggers at the #NicheParent14 Elf on the Shelf New York City Meetup

My Take:

When I was younger we used Advent Calendars to countdown to Christmas. It seems like the Elf is taking over, and with all the hilarious hijinx the elf can get into I can see where kids really have fun with it. The possibilities are pretty much endless! I may have to bring mine out for some holiday wine tasting!

Where is your Elf on the Shelf right now butterfly?

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

FTC DisclosureThis is NOT a sponsored post, no monetary compensation has been received. Nor are there any affiliate links in this post. 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.


Monday, December 22, 2014

{#Movies} Looking for a family flick to see for the holidays? Check out @AnnieMovie #NorwegianMOMS

Annie Theatrical Movie Poster
Annie Theatrical Movie Poster


As my butterflies know I am NOT a Mom, and I do NOT have children, but that doesn't mean I don't occasionally enjoy a family friendly movie or two. (My movie genre of preference is actually Horror, but there aren't exactly a ton of horror flicks being released during Christmas! LOL Although 'Dexter Claus' has a kind of nice ring to it right?).

I recently had the opportunity to see the new Annie movie at a very special screening hosted by The Moms which was sponsored by Norwegian (ssh don't tell anyone but I have never actually taken a cruise before, I'm a 'Cruise Virgin') and held in the Sony Screening Room in New York City!

And while I am a huge lover of music, I am not normally a big fan of musicals, so I always approach them with a bit of caution, I tend to find them contrived as life doesn't come with people spontaneously bursting into song for hours. So when I actually enjoy a musical - be it a play or a movie, it surprises even me. I read so many bad reviews on this one, and honestly it surprises me. I found it a perfect family movie, and I thought it was very well cast, had a great pace, and the songs were done well.

I get that we all know the story by now, but so many movies have been re-made with the actors of that generation that I hate to see this one getting so much backlash when it was very well done.  I'm not a big instagram lover and the movie even made me see it in a whole new way! (No spoilers here, but it's the most creative use of a social media channel integrated into a movie - second only to the Facebook movie of course!)

After the screening there was a Questions and Answers Session with the young ladies who play the 'Foster Kids' in the movie, they are not 'orphans' in this movie, they are 'Foster Kids'. Here is the video:




Photos from the Questions and Answers:

@AnnieMovie #AnnieMOMS #NorwegianMOMS Annie 2014

@AnnieMovie #AnnieMOMS #NorwegianMOMS Annie 2014, Annie Mamarazzi
Far Left: Denise Albert of THE MOMS, to her left Nicolette Pierini who portrays 'Mia', then Zoe Margaret Colletti who portrays 'Tessie', then Eden Duncan-Smith who portrays 'Isabella' and Amanda Troya who portrays 'Pepper' and Far Right: Melissa Musen Gerstein of THE MOMS.

My Take:

Oddly enough I was invited to a Sony screening before this one where Jamie Foxx and Quvenzhané Wallis were slated to appear but I wasn't available that night so I was super happy that the chance to catch this movie came around again at a time that I was available to see it!

I personally liked the twists that made this more modern and up-to-date.

Will you catch a movie this Christmas this Butterfly? If you do go so see Annie, then come back here and let us know what you thought!

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

FTC DisclosureThis is NOT a sponsored post, no monetary compensation has been received. Nor are there any affiliate links in this post. This post does serve as a contest entry (so if you want to give it a re-tweet I would certainly LOVE that!). 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.

Sunday, December 21, 2014

Weekly Moment of Gratitude! - Come sound off, What are YOU most grateful for this week?


In daily life we must see that it is not happiness that makes us grateful, but gratefulness that makes us happy
In daily life we must see that it is not happiness that makes us grateful, but gratefulness that makes us happy

Good and Grateful For Stuff:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Developing a case of the 'wanderlust' again and it means it's time to pick a place on the planet I haven't yet seen and book a ticket! I have a feeling a getaway would do me a world of good!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - It's been snowing lately, so hopefully a 'white' Christmas is on it's way for those of us here in the Northeast. Maybe the cold weather and some snow will create a blanket of stillness and peace. With all the insanity right now in New York City, some holiday cheer would be a welcome thing!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - I am also always excited by this time of year. Much like snakes shed their old skin and develop new skin it's place, that is what the ending of one year and the beginning of a new one feel like for me. A time to shed my old skin and make the changes I need for overall renewal. Wishing you all a happy and healthy 'renewal' period as you transition into a new year!


What am I grateful for Today?, Writing in the Sand
Ask yourself at the end of each day: What am I grateful for Today?

My Take:

I always miss this feature when I have to skip it to play catch up or find myself so tired on Sundays that I am just too pooped to write! I love reading what you are grateful for, so please share something good that this week gave you to be grateful for!

My old gratitude journals are my favorite ones to read. I like spending time on New Years Eve reading over old journals - it helps me see how far I have come and re-evaluate the things that both are and the things that are no longer important to me anymore.

What are you most grateful for this week Butterfly? What changes are you going to make for 2015?

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

FTC DisclosureThis is NOT a sponsored post, no monetary compensation has been received. Nor are there any affiliate links in this post. 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.

Saturday, December 20, 2014

#ad: {#Giveaway} The gift of breathing easy this holiday season with #FebrezeAirPurifiers #HolidayFebreze

#ad: This is a compensated campaign in conjunction with Febreze, all opinions are my own.

Being an apartment dweller in the city that never sleeps means not just noisy neighbors but incredibly smelly ones too. Let's just say their 'assorted vices' are very intrusive and the current construction on the building is sending a ton of dust particles into my apartment. Which equals a NOT so happy butterfly.

While a trip to the tropics until the construction on the roof blows over (and my stoner neighbors move out - a girl can dream can't she?) isn't quite possible at the moment, I got sent the next best thing, A Febreze Mini Tower HEPA-Type Air Purifier! With the holidays approaching and guests bound to be paying visits, I am glad I have this in my arsenal to keep the air in my apartment smelling fresh and clean!

FHT180W Mini Tower HEPA-Type Air Purifier, Febreze™ Air Purifiers
Febreze™ Air Purifier - FHT180W Mini Tower HEPA-Type Air Purifier

About Febreze Mini Tower HEPA-Type Air Purifiers:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Ideal for up to 85 sq. ft. (small rooms - so close the window and door to get faster results)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Dimensions: 8.66 x 10.16 x 17.32 in

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Weight: 8.22lbs

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Warranty: 3 Year Limited

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Energy Star Certified

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Available in three sizes (1) Tabletop, (2) Mini Tower (3) Tower (I am discussing my experiences with the Tower Unit in this review)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Removes Particles that are typically invisible to the naked eye, yet can contribute to household odors and dust that build up on surfaces.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Triple Duty: (1) Cleans the air through HEPA-Type filtration, (2) Removes up to 99% of airborne particles, and (3) traps household odors while adding a fresh Febreze scent to the filtered air.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - There are currently two scents available for the scent cartridges: Linen & Sky and Spring & Renewal (those are my top two scents when I buy Febreze Sprays for my home, so I was happy to see those are the ones that are currently available for the Air Purifier.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Automatic scent and filter indicator replacement lights (each scent cartridge lasts for up to 30 days and the filter up to four months)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - YOU control the cleaning level AND their is also a freshness control dial so you can customize the scent too

















See it in Action:




My Take:

I put it straight in my bedroom which doubles as my home office as the building construction is taking place right above me at the moment, and I put the control on MAX for scent and the highest for air cleaning and I noticed a HUGE difference even faster than I expected as the dimensions to the room are surprisingly large for an NYC apartment. This is my first Air Purifier ever and the psychological benfits I am reaping on not feeling guilty about dusting enough are PRICELESS!!! Not to mention not having MY spaces smell like other people's vices and habits. I HATE the smell of cigarette smoke, I have never done it, and hate when that smell wafts into my apartment.

Another thing I noticed that I wanted to share with you all, is that as someone who sits in front of a computer for hours is that I tend to breathe more shallow than I should. Office air environments can also be quite stuffy, and one of the real benefits I also immediately noticed is that I have been taking much deeper breaths now and I breathe in less shallow and more profound. As a lifelong asthmatic that has to be by far my favorite plus for the unit.

I like taking Gaming vacations (for regular readers I'm sure that comes as no surprise) and I often have to have the hotels I stay at provide me with an air purifier, especially if I get stuck with a smoking room when I specifically ask for NON-smoking and they can't change me. I usually have to leave those units running during the day while I'm out and about and tend to turn them off at night because they were super noisy! Not with this one. It's quieter than I expected it to be at the max setting for air cleaning. I am NOT saying it is noiseless, but it is significantly quieter than the units I have been exposed to.

This one does get a thumbs up from me, and I am considering the Tabletop unit for the kitchen as I am a seafood and spicy food lover and would prefer my whole apartment doesn't smell like what I am cooking! So a dedicated unit in that room might be a very good idea.

Check out www.febrezeairpurifiers.com for more info!

WIN IT:

You have the chance to win an Air Purifier with extra refill cartridges and extra filters thanks to our friends at Febreze! Who loves YOU Butterfly?

a Rafflecopter giveaway

While the Air Purifier only offers two scent cartridge types at this time, what is your all time favorite Febreze scent? (There are some seasonal ones for the holidays out NOW!)

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

FTC Disclosure: I was provided with a Febreze™ Air Purifier - FHT180W Mini Tower HEPA-Type Air Purifier for Editorial Consideration. This product review and giveaway is part of a compensated campaign, however 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.

Thursday, December 18, 2014

@BestBuy and @CanonUSAimaging want to help you capture those special holiday moments + A #TwitterParty too!!

Canon EOS Rebel T5i, digital camera
For a limited time Get $150 OFF the Canon EOS Rebel T5i at Best Buy!


With the holidays in full swing, there are tons of holiday moments to capture and share and Best Buy and Canon want you to capture them in style! One of the hottest and best-selling Digital Cameras at Best Buy is The Canon EOS Rebel T5i which offers exceptional image quality and a host of great features including:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Full HD Video
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Continuous Auto-Focus while Taking HD Video
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 18 megapixel CMOS sensor
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - DIGIC 5 image processor
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - 3" vari-angle touch screen to simplify navigation

Canon EOS Rebel T5i Back of unit, digital camera













Nab it at a Steal - Save $150 on the Canon Rebel T5i at Best Buy! (Normally $899, it is pricing at $699 right now, so GRAB it NOW!)

But Wait There's MORE:



What: Twitter Party
When: TONIGHT! Thursday, December 18, 2014
Time: 7pm CST/8pm EST
Prizes: 4 - $100 Best Buy Gift Cards
Hashtag: #CanonatBestBuy and #HintingSeason
Follow all hosts and co-hosts including: @BestBuy, @Gaynycdad, @KittyBradshaw, @BeingAlison, @LatinMami and @StacieinAtlanta

Please Note: I am not hosting or co-hosting this one so please make sure to direct any questions to tonight's hosts directly.

My Take:

I have the Canon EOS Rebel T3i and I love my camera! In fact this summer I took photography classes at a Best Buy retail location and learned so much about how to get more from the camera. They let attendees know that the in-store experts are always happy to help customers learn how to use their camera better or answer any questions you may have about accessories for your camera as well.

Look forward to seeing your holiday photos during upcoming Wordless Wednesdays on the interwebs! Happy Tech Thursday and Happy Holidays, see you at the Twitter Party Tonight!

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

FTC Disclosure: I am a Best Buy Brand Ambassador, gift cards and sometimes products are received to facilitate an editorial, however 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. There are affiliate links in this post.

Wednesday, December 17, 2014

Buy your #Smartphone, #Tablet or #ebook reader a @FlyGrip - Trust me, You NEED this!



Remember when I told you that the Get Geeked Tech Conference in New York City introduced me to a ton of cool new stuff? If you forgot what or didn't get to read about the conference when I first posted about it, check it out HERE!

One of the coolest products I got to lay my hands on at the conference wasn't even the most expensive, and while I thought it was a neat idea during the demo, it wasn't until I lived with it and played with it daily that I got to understand just how invaluable the FlyGrip really is! It really is one of those things that make you wish you thought of it first! It helps you use your favorite smart device easier AND better.

LG G2 Phone Cover, LG G2 Smartphone for Verizon, FlyGrip, One-handed Smartphone Solution,
Left: LG G2 Phone Cover, Center: LG G2 Smartphone for Verizon, Right: FlyGrip

Benefits of utilizing a FlyGrip:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Ergonomically designed to allow you to grip your device safely with ONE hand (i.e, this will help prevent you from dropping your phone!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Allows you to multi-task easier

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Engineered to double as a kickstand in both portrait and landscape

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - For those of you that love taking Selfies or using instagram and vine, this will make it so much easier to do so

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - For those who for a variety of reasons experience weakness in their dominant hand and have had trouble using phones because of it (MS, severe carpal tunnel syndrome) , a FlyGrip will allow you the use of your smart device with so much more ease

FlyGrip in Action:

LG G2 for Verizon Cell Phone shown in cell phone cover with FlyGrip device installed directly on the smartphone cover

I am holding my smartphone upside down with fingers inserted in the FlyGrip which allows me a free hand!

























FlyGrip featured on TastyTrade Financial Network:



My Take:

I got the chance to try out quite a few devices this year from cellphones to tablets, once I decided that I was sticking with my LG G2 for awhile, I wanted to invest in accessories that would help me protect it, but the fact that the FlyGrip not only protects my device, but makes using it easier and much more fun and comes in a range of colors and styles to match my mood and express my personality is a great bonus! And by the way they do offer butterflies, but I couldn't resist the animal print against the chic black cellphone cover! I can tell you that after you use it, you will want one for ALL of your smart devices!

This is the perfect holiday gift for everyone on your list! Let's face it, who on your list doesn't have a smart device of some kind? And as a former Special Ed Teacher, I can tell you I would rather have this than an Apple! This is a gift idea that won't break the bank, and that the recipient will always think of you daily with love! If you are giving someone a smart device for the holidays, pick up a case and FlyGrip to go with it as the stocking stuffer!

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

FTC Disclosure: I was provided with a FlyGrip and Cellphone case for Editorial Consideration. 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.


Wednesday, December 10, 2014

{#WordlessWednesday} @jengroover inspires the crowd at the @ActivateMovmt #Activate2K14 #Conference

I thought this picture of Jen Groover (tagged by Success Magazine as a 'one woman brand') inspiring attendees at the Activate 2K14 Conference would be a perfect empowerment photo for Wordless Wednesday!

"We have control of one thing only in this world ... Our Perspective. Choose a positive one." ~ Jen Groover

























Happy Wordless Wednesday Butterflies, feel free to comment with a link to your Wordless Wednesday Photos as well so we can check them out and leave you some comment love! (No Giveaway Links please!)

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

FTC Disclosure: I was invited to attend the Activate 2K14 Conference as a member of the Digital Media, this is NOT a sponsored post, it is an event recap of my experience. 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. This post may contain affiliate links.

Saturday, December 6, 2014

Highlights from the @InStyle Holiday Preview! Hot Gifts! #CelebrateInStyle

Celebrate the Season InStyle Logo #CelebrateInStyle

With holidays right around the corner there is a ton to think about and a ton to do, What to wear, and of course the gifts we want to give and those we may be hoping to receive.

Celebrate the Season InStyle Decorations Essentials Crafts #CelebrateInStyle
The box of butterflies on the middle tier is what caught my eye!






































InStyle Magazine hosted a holiday preview event that curated the latest and greatest (and most fashionable of course) trends of the holiday season all in one room! They certainly crammed a lot of style into a little space!

I thought I'd share some of the highlights (in alphabetical order):

Celebrate the Season InStyle Bulova Watches #CelebrateInStyle
Bulova Watches on display during the Celebrate InStyle Holiday Press Preview
Above: While smart/notifier wearable tech that tells the time, measures your heart rate and every single step you take may be all the rage, Bulova presented a collection that is where Watch meets Fashion Jewelry. Timeless, Classic, Elegant watches that can take you from boardroom to date night with ease and that's just the way I like it. I still take notes in a notebook, keep a 'real' calendar, and definitely prefer 'real' watches - you know, the ones that still just tell time! LOL (Too bad one of these beauties wasn't in our gift bag! I will have to oogle them from afar for now, AHEM I hope Santa is reading this!)

Celebrate the Season InStyle Kelly Cook Vice President of Customer Strategy and Engagement DSW #CelebrateInStyle
Kelly Cook, Vice President of Customer Strategy and Engagement for DSW
Above: Needless to say DSW's exhibitor booth was always crowded, so nabbing a good shot of it was virtually impossible. They had their own 'step and repeat' but you guys know those are not my thing. I like being behind the camera and sharing WHAT I see with all of you. As cute as I am, how many pictures of me in front of a backsplash does anyone need to see right? I was able to nab a shot of Kelly Cook, VP of Customer Strategy and Engagement for DSW - the Designer Show Warehouse. As you can tell from the shot, her passion for Shoes and DSW are evident. She was awesome! I was surprised to learn about the Shoe Struck random event held at any one of their retail stores at random where they give EVERYONE a free pair of shoes. They need to bring that to their DSW's 'in da hoood' where I live! #JustSayin

Shoe Struck

I can tell you that the gift card in the Gift Bags got to put to immediate use and I spent another $250 on top of it! So it's totally true that those who give also receive! (kind of a holidays motto no?)

Celebrate the Season Elizabeth Arden Red Door Perfume #CelebrateInStyle, Fragrances
Elizabeth Arden classic Red Door Perfume

Above: Elizabeth Arden presented several of their fragrances, and they were creatively displayed with what comprises the notes included in the scent, Genius! The classic Red Door is one I was definitely already familiar with.

Celebrate the Season Elizabeth Arden Red Door 25 Perfume #CelebrateInStyle, Fragrances, Scents
Elizabeth Arden Red Door 25 Perfume

Above: Not quite new, but new to me was Elizabeth Arden's Red Door 25, I found it a more 'sensual' version of the traditional Red Door.

Celebrate the Season Elizabeth Arden Untold Perfume #CelebrateInStyle, Fragrances, Scents
Elizabeth Arden Untold Perfume
Above: Elizabeth Arden also had their newer fragrance Untold on Display, a creamy white floral with fruitier top notes of pear and black currants.

Celebrate the Season Elizabeth Arden Untold Absolu Perfume #CelebrateInStyle, Fragrances, Scents
Elizabeth Arden Untold Absolu Perfume
Above: Elizabeth Arden also displayed Untold Absolu a more intense version of Untold, ideally you could layer them, if you wore Untold during the day, you might want to use Absolu in the evening on the way out to dinner. Tres Chic bottle! They also gave us lipstick makeovers, I let them take off my signature red (that I custom blend myself) and they took me down, which means lighter. I'm not going to say it wasn't a nice shade because it was, but as soon as it started to transfer from snacks and drinks I did put my 'me' lips back on in the ladies room, sorry guys! I'm a red lip girl for life. At best I'll do some plums in the fall, but it's rare that I'm not wearing my signature red. Untold Absolu is definitely the perfect scent for a red lip and banging outfit for New Years Eve! Go Butterfly, Go Butterfly! Get it girl!

Celebrate the Season Etienne Aigner #CelebrateInStyle, Handbags, Shoes, Accessories, Jewelry
Etienne Aigner offers stylish Shoes, Handbags and Accesories

Above: These Animal Print Handbags from Etienne Aigner caught my eye! I got a lovely snakeskin bangle in my gift bag that I need to get a good shot of so I can share it with you guys, I have read other recaps of this event and we got different styles, so the universe was really watching out for me when the person handed me the gift bag with my bracelet in it because I LOVE animal prints and am super glad I didn't get a solid bangle. Pictures of my sweet score to come, promise! I went through a phase with their shoes, it was insane I tell you, LOVE! (And if Santa is reading this, I am all about the TTT Charm Necklace at Etienne Aigner, I mean ALL about this!)

Celebrate the Season InStyle Gardein's fishless filet used to make Pub Style Fish N Chips #CelebrateInStyle, food, meatless meals
Gardein's fishless filet used to make Pub Style Fish N Chips






































Above: Gardein presented us with some very creative and tasty snack option eats including the Pub style Fish N Chips above that were made using their fishless filets! Their mission is to create healthier versions of the food people love to eat, their versatile protein options were definitely a big hit and I hope to find them stocked near me soon as I would love to try some more of their products! Their website has some great recipes too! For those of you entertaining during the holidays that have a non-meater or vegan visiting, you definitely want to look into Gardein, you will truly be the hostess with the mostest with these on hand! (or non meat eaters might want to also consider throwing these in the hostess basket if they are visiting somewhere and bringing a hostess gift!)

Celebrate the Season InStyle Jergens BB Body Cream #BBgoesBody #CelebrateInStyle, BB Cream, Lotion
Jergen's BB Body






































Above: I posted about Jergen's BB Body on it's own HERE. I did tell you I had WAY more to tell you about how and where I discovered them! Yes butterflies #BBgoesBody!

Celebrate the Season InStyle Jergens BB Body Cream with Make-Up Artist Pati DuBrof  #CelebrateInStyle
Make-Up Artist Pati DuBrof
Above: Make-Up Artist (you know just to Hollywood's Elite, no biggie, lol) Pati DuBrof spoke about Makeup Trends, and the tricks she uses to get the stars 'camera-ready' and you bet Jergen's BB for Body is in her arsenal!

Celebrate the Season InStyle TV Reporter & Stylist Rachel Zalis Metaphor Relaunch by SearsStyle #CelebrateInStyle, clothing, Sears, Fashion, Style
TV Reporter and Stylist Rachel Zalis discusses SearsStyle The Metaphor Collection

Above: TV Reporter and Stylist Rachel Zalis spoke about the relaunch of SearsStyle Metaphor Collection, needless to say they had me at 'Leather', LOL!

Celebrate the Season InStyle TV Reporter & Stylist Rachel Zalis Metaphor Relaunch by SearsStyle #CelebrateInStyle

Above: The Metaphor Collection by SearsStyle includes pieces for work and play! Fashion doesn't get simpler, easier or more affordable butterflies!



Above: Silk'n presented a wide assortment of their products/devices to help you look and feel beautiful and confident including their Hair Removal device, Flash & Go, their Anti-Aging Device, FaceFX, their Acne Facial Device, Blue and their MicroDermabrasion device Revit. I was a lucky raffle winner! I wanted the Flash&Go but they didn't have one so I got the Revit system instead, as soon as I try it out I will definitely share how it is working for me! They also gifted attendees with their Silk'in Pedi device which recently arrived in the mail, once I get started with that one I will also post a full review on it. Trust me when I tell you even the girl or guy who 'has everything' will still want, love and need any of these. All of their products are definitely perfect to get you primed and prepped for your upcoming holiday parties and events!



Above: Instyle Magazine's 2014 Holiday Gift Guide winner SugarWish was a popular stop, it's literally the sweetest and easiest gift ever! You select a Sugarwish Git and your recipient gets an eCard, THEY pick the candy of THEIR choice and sweets are delivered directly to their door. No wondering if you are picking something they love, they are picking it themself! LE YUM!!!! I could use this right about now, writing always gives me a case of the 'late night snack attack'.

Gummy Mini Butterflies

Don't think I didn't notice those mini butterfly gummies on their website! Tres Cute AND Sweet!


Above: Want to get into the internet commerce game? Want to sell online without ever stocking inventory yourself? When your friends, family (and in the case of bloggers, followers) ask 'where did you get that?' you can send them straight there, tell them why you like it, rate it, link to it, and when they buy it, you earn cash rewards! (I know right!) Tagspire is the place where you share how fly you are and get paid for it! I am still trying to figure this site out, but once I do I will share my page on Tagspire with you all!



MY TAKE:

I wasn't able to get photos of Skinnygirl who offered their nutrition bars as well as sparklers, sparkling water. And the gift bag sponsors which included: Alassis Candles, RAPProtein, Balsam Hill, and Lovin My Textures. And sadly Vigoss was giving out free jeans, but they did not have any in my size. So huge Le Sigh, no jeans for this butterfly! :-(

This was a well-curated event with a little something for everyone. In the picture right above My Take, I have to highlight that leather totebag with a built in charger, can't ever say you forgot your portable charger with this smart tote. I also fell in love with the Tory Burch for Fit Bit Necklace, I think the InStyle Sign may be covering it. I am trying to get them to send us a review unit, but so far crickets. Double Le Sigh, another thing to add to my growing list to Santa thanks to this event!

There were enough great holiday ideas to keep this butterfly inspired, and a few that I added to my list for Santa Claus that's for sure!

What item featured above would you want to Santa to bring you this year butterfly? Have you been a good butterfly this year?

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

FTC Disclosure: I was invited to Celebrate InStyle as a member of the Digital Media, this is NOT a sponsored post, it is an event recap of my experience. 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. This post may contain affiliate links.

Thursday, December 4, 2014

{#TechThursday} It's #HintingSeason and @BestBuy is hosting the #OLEDatBestBuy #TwitterParty TONIGHT! #spon













You are cordially invited to join @Best Buy@StacieinAtlanta@thedomesticexec, @debthompson, @medictom and yours truly, Ascending Butterfly's official 'Butterfly-in-Chief' @Tracy_Iglesias for the #OLEDatBestBuy Twitter Party where we will be discussing OLED Televisions and giving away $100 Best Buy Gift Cards! RSVP here: http://divinelifestyle.com/join-us-bestbuy-lg-oled-twitter-party-124-8-9pm-est-hintingseason-oledatbestbuy/

Where: on Twitter!

When: TONIGHT! Thursday, December 4th, 2014

Time: 8 pm EST

Prizes: Four $100 Best Buy Gift Cards

Make sure to RSVP before the party and use the hashtag #OLEDatBestBuy on ALL of your tweets! Be sure to follow the sponsor and all hosts, you must be present to win and must respond to the host directly via direct message who tweets your name announcing you have won.

Hope to see all my butterflies there! Do you want Santa to bring you an OLED TV this Christmas?

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

FTC Disclosure: I am a Best Buy Brand Ambassador. This allows me to share information, sales, product reviews and deals on a regular basis!  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. This post may contain affiliate links.