Wednesday, August 26, 2015

{#WordlessWednesday} Recap of @BloggerBashNYC Blogging Conference #BBNYC #sweetsuite15 in Photos!

@BloggerBashNYC Blogging Conference #BBNYC #sweetsuite15

We have already established I will never be able to go totally Wordless. I try. I really do.

For most of you in the blogger loop this year a very tricky blog conference overlap occured in New York City - two top notch blogging conferences - BlogHer and Blogger Bash both went on pretty much at the same time.

No bueno!

I'm a New York City born and raised girl and I knew that with the venues for both conferences being far from close this was going to be tricky for me. And it was. Decisions were made, and some goings on at both conferences were missed. It's a FANTASTIC problem to have and I am not complaining. I am humbled to have been invited to attend both conferences at no cost to me. (Long time readers know that I am on a very strict budget for a variety of reasons!)

I am not even going to go down the - 'which conference was better road' - at this point in my blogging career I have learned that being asked to pick a favorite conference is like being asked to pick a favorite child (if you have children of course, which you all know I do NOT!) - they all have different strengths and weaknesses.

So what's a butterfly to do?

'Conference hop' of course!

I am a total introvert you all know that. I think my event recaps are popular because I take photos of literally everything I see at events, except myself if at all possible. I have an aversion to 'step and repeats' and my attitude about them is pretty much 'who needs to see another photo of someone in front of a branded backsplash? Tres Dull right?'

I have always had a soft spot for one very specific type of photo, MASCOT photos, I live for them, I am obsessed with them, and they are pretty much the only photos where I am super relaxed and happy and laid back about being photographed.

Now I will say this - PR/BRANDS - please pay attention to this: Do NOT force me to take a photo at your booth with the threat of you not talking to me at all if I don't. I HATE that, all bloggers hate that and even if we would have taken that photo, we will walk away if you directly tell us the only way to get your attention is to be forced into taking a photo. Tres TACKY. and that is not the way to start what should be a 'partnership'.

Here is the rundown of the mascot heaven that was Sweet Suite at Blogger Bash:


Above: The fantasy land fun was established the moment I walked into Sweet Suite!

Above: Pretty in pink!


Above: These friendly smiles set the tone for the fun that was waiting for us inside!


Above: I am big fan of looking both up AND down, I found another shareable sticker on the floor!


Above: Aren't these floral arrangements by Teleflora super pretty?


Above: This is called the Perfect Drink and I NEED one of these in my life right now. I truly wish THIS had been in our box of awesomeness, as a Lifestyle Blogger based in the city that never sleeps mastering the perfect cocktail is an absolute MUST. I will be reaching out to them to see if we can partner and do something fun for you guys (and for me too, tee hee, and wink wink!)

Above: Isn't this SuperGirl Costume awesome? The theme of girls being a super hero too was definitely strong at Blogger Bash and I was all about it!

Above: Like I said unleashing your girl power and super hero power was a running theme, what's NOT to love? Follow the hashtag #IAmElemental on social media to learn more!

Above: And while she is not a 'super hero' Strawberry Shortcake was a big part of my childhood and I was totally stoked to see her at Blogger Bash. You can also follow her hashtag, #StrawberryShortcake

Above: An instagram moment with TWO hashtags no less! Both #StrawberryShortcake and #BerryBestBits

Above: I got to attend the CareBears Breakfast, well more like watch it, although I arrived early there were NO seats and because I did not have a seat I didn't get a gift bag so I was super bummed! Some bad blogger behavior happening with people taking multiple bags or putting pocketbooks on seats and not moving them. When I arrived the bear was on break so it took awhile to nab these shots!

Above: Seriously can anyone really resist the 'cuddly-ness' that is a Care Bear?

Above: Finally! I got my shot with the bear!

Above: A blogging pal took one with her phone and my DSLR just in case, I was NOT missing this moment. If I wasn't getting a gift bag I was getting a photo! (BTW, the 'lei of mini care bears' is a total photo prop, we were not allowed to keep them, le sigh!)

Above: I had to nab a shot with Peppa Pig!

Above: Snoopy was at Blogger Bash last year and I was super happy to see Snoopy again this year, my Godmother even had a poodle named Snoopy! I was so excited I forgot to take off my glasses, you guys know I rarely take photos with my glasses on! Sunglasses yes, 'seeing' glasses NO. LOL

Above: After the Care Bears Breakfast, Blogger Bash attendees were wisked off in buses to a private 'Blue Man Group' experience. Yes I have already seen the show and covered it here on Ascending Butterfly, so it says A LOT that I signed up to do this because I wanted to see it again!

Above: Unfortunately this is the second time my photo WITH a Blue Man didn't come out, next time I am just going to have the person use my cellphone instead of the DSLR but I did nab a shot with fellow bloggers showing off our supercool blue VIP bracelets! And this is my only Blogger Bash 'step and repeat' shot!

MY TAKE:

The exact skinny on my pros and cons? Glad you asked:

PROS

✔ Blogger Bash is totally FUN
✔ Mascots Heaven
✔ Toys - but not just the sheer quantity of them, the fact that the swag is not a bag of goodness, but an entire BOX OF AWESOMENESS that is mailed to you - hello, no back breaking lugging stuff around from place to place or knocking into everyone as you walk around the venue. TOTAL PLUS!

CONS:

This is a con for all conferences, this trend toward "VIP" ticketing is a HUGE Pet Peeve of mine. I wish Blogger Bash would drop this and not follow the herd on this trend. But at the end of the day conferences are a businesses and organizers will do what benefits the bottom line. I get it, I just don't like it.

Overall impression: As a Lifestyle Blogger who does NOT have children, I gravitate more toward the nostalgic toys that bring me back to my own childhood. As I don't have kids I don't have anyone to be a 'product tester' so the ton of toy pitches that follow this conference aren't a real win/win for me in that regard so seeing a bit more variety in brands this year was definitely a plus. I posted some of the standout toys when I un-boxed the swag BOX of awesomeness on instagram, so be sure you are following me there too, time has forced me to do more micro-blogging at events and that's the best way to see the conference unfold in real time or see products that I am sent or pitched that may not get a full feature on these pages due to time constraints.

If you are a parent/mom blogger this is DEFINITELY the conference for YOU, it will have you covered for pretty much any child age range you focus on. As a lifestyle blogger I would love to see a bit more variety next year (I do get it's a 'night of play' - but I miss some of last year's stuff like the covergirl suite (I mean free lipsticks/lippies you know I love wearing a signature red lip everyday, I run out of REDS super fast! LOL), the hijinx of the angry birds after party, and I'm all about last year's wine brand)

Did YOU attend Blogger Bash? If so, what did you think of it? What is your personal favorite of all the blogging conferences you have attended? If you haven't attended one yet, which one is on your wishlist?

As always no formal linky here, bloggers feel free to leave a comment with the link to your Wordless Wednesday Photo this week and we will be sure to pay you a visit! (NO Giveway links please, WW only!)

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FTC Disclosure: This is a NON -compensated post, no monetary compensation has been received and this is an event recap (a gift box was received). All my 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.

Monday, August 24, 2015

During #Blogher15 @Staples took us all #BacktoSchool #StaplesBTS - Are YOU ready?



Blogging Conferences come with their share of private events (and in some cases have VIP badges that offer a very difference experience than the standard conference badge) and this year during BlogHer15, Staples organized an invite only Breakfast to help Bloggers get ready for Back-to-School with special appearances by TV Personality Leeza Gibbons and Jamie Primak Sullivan of #cawfeetawk and Bravo TV's Jersey Belle.

Check out this video!



Some of the 'Trends' & Initiatives by Staples for 2015 include:

Designed by Students - Who knows what students need better than students right? (Well maybe Teachers!), but this line of products and tools designed by students to help address common classroom needs include The Big Pen (a pencil case and writing instrument all-in-one), the Big Props Pencil Case (doubles as a tablet stand) and the Super Folder which includes storage areas, a zipper pouch, clear pockets for class schedules, a pencil sharpener, sticky notes and a writing pad!

Positive Impact/Me to We - Staples and Me to We (a social enterprise that provides people with better choices for a better world) have joined forces to make socially conscious shopping easy with a line of eco-friendly school supplies. Each product provides a life-changing impact in a developing community where Me to We's partner, Free the Children works and the Me to We Collection includes notebooks, composition books, binders, portfolios, backpacks, pencil pouches and more with a price range from $1.99 - $29.99

Want to know HOW your purchase makes a SPECIFIC Impact?

Me to We Core Notebook provides MEDICINE
Me to We 10.5" Notebook provides FARM SEEDS
Me to We Journal provides MEDICINE
Me to We Composition Book provides MEDICINE
Me to We Casemade Binder provides ONE TREE
Me to We Portfolio provides CLEAN WATER
Me to We Water Bottle provides CLEAN WATER FOR ONE WEEK
Me to We Rafiki provides ONE YEAR OF SCHOOL SUPPLIES TO ONE CHILD

Camouflage - an 'army' of backpacks and accessories (no pun intended)! The OGIO Evader and Stellar Backpacks feature a large main compartment, padded laptop sleeve and ergonomic shoulder straps for comfort and there are coordinating Camouflage Composition Books and a Maze Calculator to match.

Tech Pop Design - Exclusive Teen Vogue products which are only available at Staples (we have featured the collection before HERE), look for Teen Vogue BETTER Binders, Staplers, Patterned Folders and Staples Tech Pop Folders in stores.

Graphic Design - Look for Continental Into the Wild and Continental Vibrance Notebooks and Composition Books and Tie-dye, inspirational sayings and fun graphics (including glasses and mustaches) from Gartner Studios.

Fun for School - with favorite characters including The Avengers, Nickelodeon Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Disney Frozen and more!

Metallic - If your DD loves glitter, diamonds and sassy sayings in combos of pink, silver, purple and bold/sparkly hues this is the collection for her! (or him, just saying, no judgement!)

Technology - From Scientific Calculators to Tablets including my particular fave the Microsoft Surface Pro, you can find the tech that your student needs at Staples as well!

Tech Accessories - Staples Flat Charge & Sync USB Cables, for a 'cool factor' the Light Pulse Electroluminescent Charge and Sync Cable or even iPhone Cases, there are tech accessories to suit a wide variety of tastes.

Organizational Supplies - Mom, Teacher and Students can benefit from desktop organization from Staples Desk Accessories Collection, Sky Planners, Calendars and more! (As a former Special Ed Teacher I can tell you a gift card to Staples is WAY more useful than an Apple! Teachers often fund their classrooms from their own salary, particularly in public schools so a gift card to Staples as a gift to Teacher can really go a LONG way!)

Left: Jaime Primak Sullivan of #cawfeetawk and Bravo TV's Jersey Belle, Center: ME!, Right: TV Personality Leeza Gibbons!
Above: Left: Jaime Primak Sullivan of #cawfeetawk and Bravo TV's Jersey Belle, Center: ME!, Right: TV Personality Leeza Gibbons!

MY TAKE:

With Staples 110% Price Match Guarantee (through 9/15) and Super Wide Selection you can definitely consider them 'your one-stop shop' for Back-to-School this year! I have always admired Leeza Gibbons and it was neat to finally meet her in person! She is super down to earth. The photo above is the pro-shot that was taken, someone accidentally cut off their heads in the personal photo I had someone take with my camera and they were nice enough to take another photo. I didn't notice until I got home and saw the second photo on screen that my eyes were completely closed so I opted to use the pro shot instead for this post!

and what is a Blogging Conference Event without an awesome gift bag right?



Can't get mad at this big bag of 'swaggu'!

Have you done all your Back-To-School Shopping yet? Even if you don't have to shop for BTS (I get ya, I don't have children either!), many of the items above are just as perfect for a Home Office, which item referenced appeals to you MOST?

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FTC Disclosure: This is a NON -compensated post in conjunction with Staples, this is an event recap (a gift bag was received) and all my 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.

Thursday, August 20, 2015

#ad: Photos from the @worldmarket Press/Media Preview of #WorldMarketNYC + a #sweepstakes and MORE ways to win!

Ad: This Post Is Sponsored By:

Cost Plus World Market Logo
Remember on Monday when I told you about the upcoming opening of Cost Plus World Market's Newest Location in New York City? (Refresh your memory HERE!) By the way your feedback on that post was amazing and for those of you in cities where Cost Plus World Market doesn't have a 'brick and mortar' presence I am going to be sure to share your feedback with the 'powers that be' there - you never know when a location may pop up in a city near YOU!

On Tuesday, August 18th I got the chance to attend The Cost Plus World Market NYC Store Press/Media Preview event and it was a blast!

On Monday I shared a few of the publicity photos, which actually gave me a basis as to what I wanted to see up close and personal as well as taking some photos of the goings on at the Media Preview, so here is the opening in pictures, the first one shared is from my instagram feed:


Cost Plus World Market Press Media Preview Event for the New York City Store Grand Opening
This was taken from my phone to post to instagram!
It is definitely a 'power address' - 620 Sixth Avenue (Chelsea area between 18th and 19th Streets) is a bit like a mini-mall and there are a few other stores in that building, so you can call the building a one stop shop! I would have taken an exterior shot for you guys but there was a big construction awning outside the building that day.


DJ at Cost Plus World Market Press Media Preview Event for the New York City Store Grand Opening
DJ at Cost Plus World Market New York City Media/Press Preview Event
The official store Grand Opening begins TODAY (on Thursday, August 20th 2015 at 8:00 am). The first 100 customers through the doors from Thursday, August 20th through Sunday, August 23rd, 2015 will receive a re-usable canvas tote bag, NOTE: Each day 10 totes will contain a $50 World Market Gift Card (which can be used in store AND online at www.worldmarket.com), but they will also be doing a scavenger hunt of sorts around the city for chances to win ADDITIONAL Cost Plus World Market Gift Cards!

And guess who already knows where they are going to be giving them out? If you guessed THIS butterfly you are CORRECT! So be sure to follow me (@Tracy_Iglesias) and World Market @worldmarket) on twitter as we will be tweeting out the clues as to where you can find the Cost Plus World Market Street Team around the city! All tweets will include the #WorldMarketNYC hashtag so be sure to follow all for hints so you can win a gift card! (This post ends with another way to win that will be fun for those of you who don't live in NYC to get a chance to win something too!)

There was a photo wall that contained the history of Cost Plus World Market in images which I thought was pretty awesome:

Photo Wall of Store History at Cost Plus World Market Press Media Preview Event for the New York City Store Grand Opening
I fell in LOVE with this sideboard:

Cost Plus World Market Double Shutter Doors Holbrook Sideboard
Cost Plus World Market Double Shutter Doors Holbrook Sideboard
Long time readers know I have thing for Buddha Art, so this little guy who looked ever so lonesome like he wanted me to take him home caught my eye:

Cost Plus World Market Buddha Statue
What is a party in NYC without an 'adult' beverage or two? This wine was great and I am going to have add this one to my wine collection:

SkyFall Vineyard Pinot Gris Columbia Valley 2013 (More Please!)
I fell in love with these for my bathroom, I need to find a cute tray and candle to go with it:
Cost Plus World Market Mediterranean Sea Potpourri
Cost Plus World Market Mediterranean Sea Potpourri


I love how their logo is etched into the wood, I saw this on the wall and had to nab a shot:




DISCOUNT: During Grand Opening Weekend Only shoppers will receive a 20% discount on all purchases made in the Chelsea Store! You can nab the coupon HERE!

WIN IT:

Can't be in New York City for Grand Opening Weekend but would like a shot at a Gift Card too? No worries butterflies, I've got you covered! Check out the Cost Plus World Market 'Spruce Up Your Space' Sweepstakes! Grand Prize Package: a $5,000 World Market Shopping Spree PLUS a FREE room design with Decorist Celebrity Designer Kelli Ellis. Plus, THREE First Place Prizes who will receive a $1,000 World Market Gift Card PLUS a FREE room design with a Decorist Designer. But Hurry, this Sweepstakes ends 8/30 so get in your entry HERE.

GET SOCIAL

Be sure to follow and use the #WorldMarketNYC hashtag to keep track of all the fab happenings and the special surprises around the city on 8/20

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow Cost Plus World Market on FACEBOOK
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ Follow Cost Plus World Market on  TWITTER
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ Follow Cost Plus World Market on INSTAGRAM

MY TAKE:

My only cons are because of New York State Liquor license laws, the NY Chelsea store will NOT offer any wine, and since I can't order it online either, I am bummed I can't get their great selection to my door. They also won't be selling food at the Chelsea store, but their foods will be available at the Bed, Bath and Beyond store right next to them, so at least I can try those. I really loved getting a chance to see the online items up close. There were certain items I was going to discount based on the online descriptions, but seeing them in person changed my mind completely, there are a few storage and living space items that look so much 'richer' in person than they do online, and as for me and sofas, I need to give them a 'butt test' as in 'sit my butt on them and see if they are comfy' - and one of the daybeds which I would have never thought of, was so comfortable when I tested it that I am adding it to my wishlist and will purchase very soon.

The Press Preview was a blast and you may even spot me there for Grand Opening Weekend as well.

Have you ever shopped at Cost Plus World Market? What room in your home most needs a makeover? What items would you purchase if you won the "Spruce Up Your Space Sweepstakes"?

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FTC Disclosure: This is a compensated/sponsored post in conjunction with Cost Plus World Market, and all my 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.

Monday, August 17, 2015

@worldmarket is opening a store in New York City and I've got the Scoop AND some #discounts! #WorldMarketNYC #ad

Ad: This Post Is Sponsored By:

Cost Plus World Market Logo
A little something for everyone? I would say so:

 Furniture
 Textiles
 Ceramics
 Glassware
 Home Decor
 Jewelry
 Accesories
 Global Food
 Wines

With over 270 retail locations (in 33 states) and a strong online presence, Cost Plus World Market is already known for their broad and unique assortment of home goods (and MORE including over 500 international wines!), as a New York City girl I am super stoked to share with you that Cost Plus is coming to NYC! They have a location in Livingston, New Jersey, but that one is a bit too far for me so the fact that one is coming to New York City couldn't make me happier!


Living Room Vignette at Cost Plus World Market
The 5,000 square feet wonderland of shopping nirvana will be housed in the eclectic Chelsea neighborhood of Manhattan and will showcase lifestyle vignettes that serve to provide inspiration on how to design your space, and even better still: NEW YORK area customers will have the opportunity to see in person select 'online-only' offerings (don't you just love an exclusive?).

The Manhattan Store is located in Chelsea at 620 Sixth Avenue between 18th and 19th Streets and the official store Grand Opening begins on Thursday, August 20th 2015 at 8:00 am. The first 100 customers through the doors from Thursday, August 20th through Sunday, August 23rd, 2015 will receive a re-usable canvas tote bag, NOTE: Each day 10 totes will contain a $50 World Market Gift Card (which can be used in store AND online at www.worldmarket.com), but wait there's MORE!


Living Room Vignette with Chair at Cost Plus World Market
DISCOUNT: During Grand Opening Weekend Only shoppers will receive a 20% discount on all purchases made in the Chelsea Store! You can nab the coupon HERE!

Check out the cool video for the NYC store:



Remember how the title of this post talks about 'scoop'? If you are not already following Cost Plus World Market on their social channels, you want to be sure to stop and take a moment to do that right NOW because on Thursday, August 20th there will be special surprises around the city in conjunction with the opening weekend, and the only way to find out WHERE these surprises are going down and when is by following Cost Plus World Market carefully on their social media channels, be sure you are following me too, I will be keeping you abreast of all the happenings on my channels as well, and I will be hitting the Press/Media Preview so I'll get to see the store before it opens and will be posting on my social channels as well!

Bedroom Vignette at Cost Plus World Market
GET SOCIAL

Be sure to follow and use the #WorldMarketNYC hashtag to keep track of all the fab happenings and the special surprises around the city on 8/20 (and get glimpses from the Press Preview by following me as I will be posting on Tuesday evening 8/18).

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow Cost Plus World Market on FACEBOOK
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ Follow Cost Plus World Market on  TWITTER
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ Follow Cost Plus World Market on INSTAGRAM

MY TAKE:

Anytime I can shop globally but do so LOCALLY I am all for it. I like to march to the beat of my own drummer and I want my space to be unique and eclectic, finding items that aren't 'cookie-cutter' and be bought anywhere just appeals to me greatly, always has, always will. I am looking forward to having Cost Plus World Market accessible to me locally, as much as I love shopping online, there are just certain purchases where I need to see, touch/feel and now I have the opportunity to do just that.

Have you ever shopped at Cost Plus World Market? What room in your home most needs a makeover?

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FTC Disclosure: This is a compensated/sponsored post in conjunction with Cost Plus World Market, and all my 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.

Friday, August 14, 2015

Fresh off the @Ascending1 Instagram Feed! Courtesy of @BALIintimates @GetGorgEvents #BaliBeautiful #GettingGorgeous

Bali One Smooth U Ultra Light Lift with Lace Underwire Bra, BALI intimates, Plus Size Bras
Remember when I shared that the BALI Intimates Team was at Getting Gorgeous again this year? Check out my recap of #GettingGorgeous HERE. The bra set that I featured in that recap post is the bra I actually selected, it's from BALI - the Bali One Smooth U Ultra Light Lift with Lace Underwire Bra - and it arrived in today's mail!

Don't you just love when you get another surprise gift well after an event?

I also selected a bra from the One Smooth U collection at Getting Gorgeous last year, so I was excited to see the upgrades made to the collection this year and was happy to find one with the pretty lace detail, the lace actually kinda looks a little bit like a butterfly doesn't it?

The material feels so much softer and silkier than last year's version and I love the lace detail and the cute little touch of bling in the center.

I thought I would share this with you guys while I work on editing and optimizing my images from the #CurveNY expo where I got to see spring/summer 2016 collections among a very wide assortment of lingerie and swimsuit designers, which I hope to have live and posted very SOON.

And make sure you don't miss next week's posts, there are TONS of goodies ahead, starting MONDAY!

Bra Tips:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - You need to get re-fitted and get a new bra every six months

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - hand wash to preserve it, if you machine wash it often you will definitely have to get a new one sooner

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - build your 'foundation wardrobe' - get a white, black and nude to start and then build from there.

Bali One Smooth U Ultra Light Lift with Lace Underwire Bra and panty set
My Take:

I love the One Smooth U collection, just remember these are lightweight and while they are supportive, you may not want to wear them under your sheerest fabrics or if it's super cold if you get my drift! (Especially if you are 'super-endowed' like this butterfly!)

Do you have a favorite bra brand? Please share what it is!

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FTC Disclosure: This is a non-compensated post, however Bali sent bras to all Getting Gorgeous Attendees for Editorial Consideration, no monetary compensation has been received in exchange for this post and my 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.

Thursday, August 13, 2015

#ad: Do you want kids to know they have the power to make good choices? #Wishenpoof #AmazonKids @AmazonVideo @KidzVuz

This is a sponsored post in conjunction with KidzVuz and AmazonKids, in addition to compensation, advance copies of all 13 episodes of Wishenpoof have been provided to us for Editorial Consideration BEFORE they were released to Amazon Prime Members.

Wishenpoof An Amazon Original Series

While I don't have children, I was a former Special Education Teacher and if there is one thing I do know it is that making learning 'FUN' is the best way for the lessons to sink in - and make the medicine go down - so to speak anyway!

In addition to Back-to-School shopping, easing kids back into the transition of putting their 'learning caps' back on doesn't necessarily have to be a chore. And for those of you with 'pre-schoolers' who will be watching their older siblings go off to school, I have a show I want to put on your radar!

On Friday, August 14th (THIS Friday Butterflies!), Amazon will premiere all 13 episodes of the Amazon Original Series Wishenpoof for Amazon Prime Members in the US, UK and Germany (shout out to our German Readers, for some reason Ascending Butterfly attracts a ton of LOVE in Germany! Yes I do look at my Google Analytics every now and again!).

My schedule is so nuts that I was invited to but couldn't make the kickoff event here in NYC at Central Park (even though I am based here which totally bummed me out), but when I was offered the chance to screen the series at my leisure I jumped on it! (I'm a lifelong insomniac which is why writing is the perfect gig for me, when the world is half asleep, I'm up writing, for the past few days I have been watching episodes of the show on my computer!)

Bianca and Bob the Bear from Wishenpoof An Amazon Original Series
ABOUT WISHENPOOF:

Supporting kids as lifelong learners and incorporating the "Seven Essential Life Skills" framework (life skills that help children reach their full potential and unleash their passion to learn) by giving children the life skills and mindset they need to lead purpose-filled, creative lives - the series centers on "Bianca" and her ability to magically fulfill her friends' wishes. You can check out the offical trailer on Amazon HERE.

A fun, magical adventure series that teaches lessons through imaginative play, Wishenpoof inspires children to solve life's big preschool problems in creative ways.

Wishenpoof was created by (19 Daytime Emmy Award Nominee) Angela C. Santomero (Blue's Clues, Creative Galaxy, Super Why!) and produced by Out of the Blue Enterprises, and calling all my 90210 fans out there, Bianca's dad is voiced by Jason Priestley (his daughter, Ava is voice talent in the show as well!).

Bob the Bear and Bianca High Five Each Other in Wishenpoof An Amazon Original Series
When Bianca's friends 'wish' it calls her magic to action and with the shake of her hand (and sometimes a cool wand) and a shout of "Wishenpoof!" she brings their wishes to life via magic, it's the learning of the when and how to harness her powers with the help of her teddy bear, Bob and her mom who has the same powers - where she both learns and teaches fun lessons on playing nice, not bullying, being creative, using her imagination, being kind - and she uses her "wish magic" to make her world a better place, but learns that ultimately she doesn't need to always resort to her magic to solve her problems.

"With Magic or Without, you Can do ANYTHING You Put Your Mind to!" ~ Bianca's Mom

Bianca and Bob the Bear as Mermaids with Mom still from Wishenpoof An Amazon Original Series
MY TAKE:

This show made me all kinds of happy. You know I'm partial to all things with wings, she is a fairy, there are butterflies and dragonflies galore and in one episode when even her beloved teddy bear Bob, becomes 'Bob the Butterfly' I may have giggled (let's not tell anyone I got that into it OK?). I only wish my nieces and nephews were still young enough for this show! There is glitter and sparkles and unicorns and magic, it's pretty much perfect! The fact that you can check it out for FREE if you are already an Amazon Prime member and also as part of 'AmazonFreeTime Unlimited' which was designed from the ground up for kids and is exclusively available on Amazon devices including Fire TV, Fire Tablets and a year long subscription is included with every Fire HD Kids Edition too. You can also watch shows using the Amazon Video App, (The Amazon Video App can be found on iPhone, iPad, Android Tablets and phones, Smart TV's, Roku and many Blu ray players as well, so get the App, and the show! (The show will be a total lifesaver during long car rides to keep the kiddos entertained and engaged. You're welcome!).

No spoilers, but the show may just make you crave pickles. Don't say I didn't warn you!

Here is my tribute to Bianca (her ponytail holder is an actual 'wish' aka dandelion - I totally want one by the way!) and Wishenpoof:


I only wish I was holding my butterfly wand in this photo! (YES I have a butterfly wand - courtesy of last year's Blogger Bash!) Hope this show puts a little magic in your weekend! WISHENPOOF! Celebrate your inner magical fairy butterflies! (and I say a Tiara doesn't hurt either!)

Need an Amazon Prime Free Trial? Just press the banner below, I've got you covered!


Are you going to check out Wishenpoof with your little one on Friday? (No little ones of your own? Be sure to introduce the show to any nieces, nephews, godchildren or little ones in your life!) What is your favorite fun and educational show for your little ones?

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FTC Disclosure: This is a sponsored post, compensation has been provided as a thank you for my time, and the series was provided for Editorial Consideration, however ALL opinions are 100% my own! There are Amazon Affiliate links/banners in this 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.

Monday, August 10, 2015

{Todays #Inspiration} Add me to the ranks of the 'consciously un-coupled' #MotivationMonday

Consciously Un-Coupling Cartoon Drawing by mark ewbie

Ah, Butterflies, my very highly imitated (down to my color scheme and font, really folks?), is back by popular demand. You asked for "Todays Inspiration" back - you GOT it. I think I mostly got tired of the second rate imitations of this column and thought I should get back to doing what I do best, INSPIRE.

Point taken butterflies, you wanted something 'from the heart' back, and you wanted a break from 'blog commercials' - duly noted dear ones, just remember a butterfly gotta eat, but I promise I will strike a better balance from now on. (Although in all fairness, most event recaps are NOT sponsored posts by the way! I just happen to attend a lot of events particularly in summer!)

Not sure if it will be totally daily again with inspirational posts or if it will be a strictly Motivation Monday deal until I get my 'groove back', but I know you wanted this feature and our monthly handbag in the spotlight back and I thought I'd get started on resuscitating this feature FIRST, and yes I am working on bringing the Monthly Featured Handbag in the Spotlight back for Fall so please stay tuned.

For Today's Inspiration I am joining the ranks of the 'consciously un-coupled', perhaps Gwenyth Paltrow's speech at the BlogHer15 Conference (are we still calling this a conference, or should we call it a phenomenon unto itself which it always is) is still playing in my head, but this conscious un-coupling thing is making the rounds. It's even taken Gwen Stefani and Gavin Rossdale, Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner (perhaps there was a reason for her never switching to Jennifer Affleck, smart!) and now even Kermit and Miss Piggy are 'un-coupling'.

However in my case it's a MINDSET I want to 'consciously un-couple' with.

Just like we can outgrow a lover or any type of relationship to be frank, we can outgrow a mindset that sneakily permeates itself into our core and slowly and subtly makes us think of ourselves in ways that no longer serve a higher purpose in our life.

Remember when I told you that at Getting Gorgeous there was both a Psychic Reading a 'Face Reader'? (refresh your memory HERE) I had mentioned I wanted to re-visit the Face Reading a bit in another post, here it is. Something entirely dis-concerting happened which I left out of the Getting Gorgeous recap as it was certainly more fodder for this column than it was for an event recap!

For some reason she kept emphasizing that she saw that I was 'quite well off'. She literally peppered this into the conversation at least a dozen times. Mentally I found myself screaming 'what the hell are you talking about? I am FAR from well off Lady!' - this must surely be FAKE. Then I thought maybe I was being punked. At no point did she ask me my name, not my first or my last so this couldn't be some typical association with my last name being Iglesias and the singer Julio that I have had to dodge my whole life right? For the record, as far as I know I am NOT directly related to singer Julio Iglesias.

I wanted to find every reason to interrupt her, to interrupt the session or at least ask her how the heck did she figure me to be 'well-off''?

Empty Piggy Bank, Representations of Lack


But somehow I didn't. Something kept stopping me. I thought if I listened on and didn't interrupt her train of though, somehow she would get to the HOW I get to this 'well-off' life that she perceived me to have.

So I listened.

My face got 'read' and I wouldn't be surprised if it got 'red' too. She revealed quite a bit about me that she had no way of guessing. I was surprised that face reading can tell you so much. But if people can read our 'palms' can it be that far off for them to read our faces as well?

If you are thinking 'Butterfly what on earth does this have to do with you consciously un-coupling? I realized during my Face Reading that somehow it felt like an affront to my person to be accused of being wealthy.

I am NOT even sure why that is.

MY TAKE:

I made the decision that night as the days events played in my head that I MUST for my own good, consciously un-couple with thoughts of 'lack' in all its forms. Those thoughts obviously clawed into my brain and dug root there somehow. Maybe it's living in the city that never sleeps where everyone's 'hustle' has to have a 'side-hustle' to survive. But a 'make ends meet' and not look much beyond that mentality somehow took root in my soul and I have consciously decided to un-couple with it.

Tracy Iglesias of Ascending Butterfly on the $100 Bill
I think I look awesome on the $100 Bill
WILL YOU JOIN ME? Will you release lack and affirm prosperity into YOUR life? What mindset do YOU wish  to 'consciously un-couple' with?

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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a sponsored post, NO monetary compensation has been received, and 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.

Thursday, August 6, 2015

{#TheatreThursday} @OnYourFeetBway 's journey to Broadway this Fall, previews begin October 5th! #OnYourFeet

This post is sponsored by:

On Your Feet Broadway Musical, Photographer: Chad Griffith
Photographer: Chad Griffith

When my blogging world and real world collide and I can shout from the rooftops about something I am truly passionate about, it's a GREAT 'day at the office' in my book. As a born and raised New Yorker I can say the theatre is in my blood and so is music.

Being contacted to share the journey of Emilio and Gloria Estefan's journey to Broadway and their upcoming musical was something I have been following along with very closely anyway and I couldn't possibly be more excited to share about this with you butterflies. I saw some coverage on TV about this show months ago and I have been following it's progress since with baited breath.

While I am sure many of you know Gloria and Emilio from Miami Sound Machine, their marriage and partnership have endured such tremendous highs and lows and their new upcoming Broadway Musical On Your Feet! set to debut at the Marquis Theatre this Fall, shares the story of their true love and international success on a new stage, the Broadway stage to be exact.

The site has a wonderful timeline of photos that span their career, which you should definitely check out, HERE.

With all the recent 'un-coupling' these days - Ben and Jen, Gwen and Gavin and now even Miss Piggy and Kermit there are very few love stories standing the test of time - The Estefan's give me HOPE! Piggy and Kermie may have thrown in the towel at the 40 year mark, so watching Gloria and Emilio beat the odds is giving me life right now!

ABOUT:

Her Voice. His Vision. Their Story

Here is Episode One - Here We Are - of their Journey to Broadway for your viewing pleasure:



I have to admit re-watching the news footage of the accident in her tour bus still gives me goose bumps to this day!

Here is Episode Two - Writing The Show:



As I writer myself, I can't even say enough how these words from the video resonated, I just had to quote it:

"In America You Can Dream Big - And if You Are Willing to Sacrifice It All, there's A Chance!" ~ Alexander Dinelaris, reveals how he captured the lives of the Estefans in his writing for the show. (Alexander is an Academy Award Winner for Birdman)
Here is Episode Three - Casting the Story:



Here is Episode Four - Directing the Musical:



It's full of passion, it's full of color, it's full of people, it's full of life - it's going to be really incredible! ~ Tony Award winner Jerry Mitchell (of Kinky Boots! You know how much I love that play, see my review of Kinky Boots HERE!) BTW, choreography is by Olivier Award Winner Sergio Trujillo (Jersey Boys)

My Take:

Episode 5 reveals the actors portraying Emilio and Gloria, and for that episode my lovely butterflies, you will have to check out the show's YouTube Page. I can't give it ALL to you here! This post is meant to entice you, the rest is up to you!

I am looking forward to seeing On Your Feet! The Musical and my hope is this post will make you want to see it too. I want to see this show surpass it's own box office sales expectations and literally SWEEP the TONY Awards. I want to see the Latino community rally around this one hard. We can't complain that there aren't show's 'made for us' where we can see people 'we can truly identify with' and then when they are produced not support it. Latinos please join me in putting your money where your mouth is with this production. THIS is exactly the story about our culture that we want out there, that we are passionate, focused, driven men and women with so much to contribute. Let's put aside the where a Latino/Latina is from nonsense - the country of origin separation thing does more to hurt our community than help, that's not what is important, this is a human story, an inspirational and powerful story, and one we should rally around seeing be told, and being told BOLDLY on the Broadway Stage no less.

As a Latina I feel an extra sense of pride seeing their story hit the Broadway Stage, they are a Latino 'Power Couple' (sorry bae and jay but the Estefan's were doing it FIRST!) and that is to say the least, they have been making amazing music together and they have also been giving back, supporting charitable organizations such as We Are The World Foundation and Disaster Relief among others.

They are hardworking, focused, determined and driven and that drive has been channeled into this Production, I have no doubt in my mind it will be an amazing night on Broadway. One that I can't wait to experience for myself. The show will be in previews starting October 5th 2015. I may or may not be camped out by the theatre the night before! (Will have to check my closets for a sleeping bag!)

****I hope to be able to bring you all a tickets giveaway as well, so please stay tuned!****

In the meantime get social with On Your Feet! The Musical here: and don't forget to use the hashtag: #OnYourFeet

Twitter - @On YourFeetBway 
Facebook - On Your Feet The Musical
YouTube - On Your Feet Bway
Instagram - OnYourFeetBway

What is your favorite all time Play/Theatre Production/Musical? Do you have a favorite song from Gloria Estefan, if so which one? Did any of my Chicago based readers catch the show there? - If so PLEASE spill the tea here!

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FTC Disclosure: This is a sponsored post, monetary compensation has been received, 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 check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.