tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-74036524519162510232024-03-14T03:36:54.082-07:00Comrade Von PussycatMy name is Catherine aka Comrade Von Pussycat, this blog is a cheeky homage to all of the Bond girls I grew up watching on screen and aspiring to be like. I am a California girl who fell in love, and married a Macedonian boy. We have a cat named Samson who we rescued from the snowy winter streets and who now repays me by humping my leg incessantly...such a creep! Oh, and I also happen to love the 1940's and 1950's, so stay tuned if you love vintage too!Comrade Von Pussycathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15006428726087098782noreply@blogger.comBlogger305125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7403652451916251023.post-43430702340555888422016-09-01T19:03:00.000-07:002016-09-01T19:03:10.878-07:00Blogger Reincarnate - Comrade Von Pussycat it moving!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Comrade Von Pussycat is moving! Thank you all for your comments and support, I truly, deeply appreciate you guys - if you would like to continue to follow my whereabouts, please subscribe to:</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="https://thecomradegeneral.wordpress.com/">The Comrade General: A Spy Girls Guide To Life</a></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br />Се гледаме! Чао!</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>The Comrade General</b></span></div>
Comrade Von Pussycathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15006428726087098782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7403652451916251023.post-72403672451799256372016-07-04T12:49:00.002-07:002016-07-04T12:49:58.022-07:00"Woman Is At Once Apple And Serpent" - Heinrich Heine<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>The beginning of the Cleopatra years:</b></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>Wit & Cunning</b></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>Sex & Spectacle</b></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>These are the only rules.</b></i></span></div>
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<i><b>Comrade Von Pussycat</b></i></div>
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<br />Comrade Von Pussycathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15006428726087098782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7403652451916251023.post-43429394309963371962016-05-19T18:03:00.000-07:002016-05-19T22:21:51.555-07:00A Letter From A Glamorous Eccentric...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">Let's face it - to many people, if you are a card carrying <i><b>glamorous eccentric</b></i>, you are viewed as a threat in some way. Many people are especially afraid of individuals (particularly women) with a voice, with a mission, with a strong message, a certain steel-willed independence, and a strong mind. What an <i>archaic</i> pattern of thought! How <b>terrible</b> and <b>tragic</b> that this <i>irrational</i> fear continues to be perpetuated by many today, even by women themselves. For all those women who take pleasure in making fun of another woman's appearance - this applies to you. To every man who rates a woman on a scale of 1-10 and then criticizes her for being "<i>too</i> (fill in the blank)", this goes out to you. <i>Who gave you permission to view any human being as an object of some kind, simply existing to fulfill your every whim, fantasy, and desire?</i> <u><b>I do not exist for your pleasure. My existence doesn't need your approval, please never mistake me for one of those girls who are trying to live just to please you.</b></u></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Truth is, I'm <i>much</i> more preoccupied with plotting my future as a <i><b>grande dame</b></i> who carries a <b><i>brass cobra topped walking stick</i></b>, has <b><i>pale lilac marcelle waves, shimmery jewel toned eyelids and vermillion lips</i></b>, all while maintaining an <b>electric charm</b> tempered with a few <b><i>assorted vices</i></b>. Or I may transform into a <i><b>maestra of mystery</b></i> who wears <b><i>black lace veils </i></b>and <b><i>mantilla combs</i></b> out to the market with a <b><i>glossy black corvid named Vronsky</i></b> perched on my shoulder. Who knows? Only time will tell.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">A glamorous eccentric puts on daily personal performances solely for their own pleasure - <i>the opinions of others matter little.</i>It is these <i>little, secret rituals</i> that give us life. I suppose this is why we baffle so many. <i><b>Refusal to submit to the notion of seeking approval from others is a completely foreign concept to most. </b></i>Those who adhere to the rules and confines of societal norms have yet to unshackle the imagination. They haven't mastered being a lone wolf and running wild. Most tragically, is that they haven't experienced the liberating feeling of an unwavering sense of self.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>Marlene Dietrich, Marchesa Casati, Hedy Lamarr, Ethel Granger, Mr. Pearl, Isabella Blow, Anna Piaggi, Rossy de Palma, Josephine Baker, Oscar Wilde, Johnny Depp, Lady Gaga, Daphne Guinness, John Galliano, Dita Von Teese - a glamorous eccentric is always in good company!</b></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Why are so many people uncomfortable encountering a woman who takes charge of her own destiny? It truly baffles me. <b><i>We claim to be a progressive society, yet largely, there are rules put in place to suppress and oppress the female sex.</i></b> I refuse to be pigeon-holed into one category or another. I have always been sort of a <i><b>chameleon</b></i> - the most significant difference now is that I couldn't care less what others think of me, as opposed to when I was in my early twenties. <b>Life is wasted if you perpetually try to please others. </b>You lose the whole point of it. Don't waste your precious time or thoughts on those who constantly try to tame you, ridicule you, or discourage you. You will regret it, and <b><i>regret is one thing you cannot erase.</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">There are few feelings more satisfying then knowing that you are <b><i>being true to yourself </i></b>- whether behind closed doors or out in public. I enjoy creating facades as an amusement, but to live life behind a mask due to insecurity or fear of what other think? Never. I know that I shock people from time to time, but it always makes me laugh - I suppose I don't allow many people to observe me in my natural habitat, and therefore when I reveal my true nature, it is startling to most. I enjoy the art of surprise. I relish engaging in a challenge. I love to battle social constrictions and watch the dusty walls of "normal" crumble. <i><b>Boring, Never be boring. </b></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b><u>Boring is the kiss of death.</u></b></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">A life without passion is a life wasted. I've long described myself as a raconteuse whose aim is to manufacture a dreamlike aesthetic, every single day. I want to live <b><i>la dolce vita...</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Comrade Von Pussycat</i></b></span></div>
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Comrade Von Pussycathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15006428726087098782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7403652451916251023.post-12783389508293710162016-05-16T19:41:00.002-07:002016-05-19T17:34:39.299-07:00On Corsets, Body Modification, and Fetishes<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>Why do I want to waist train, and what do I hope to achieve by waist-training?</b></i> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> From John Willie girls to famous courtesans such as La Belle Otero, I've been fascinated by the curvaceous female form and extreme silhouettes for quite some time. I have an hourglass fetish. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> I already have a decent hourglass shape to start with (38-27-38), however, I truly long for those "La Loren" proportions (38-24-38), they are just beautiful. I don't aim to ever reduce as dramatically as say, Polaire or Ethel Granger, I am not after the title of "tiniest waist ever". My body is my masterpiece, and I love to experiment with modification - whether that has been piercings, dying my hair, henna tattoos, or 8" high heels in the past. Yes, these modifications vary in intensity and effect, but they are still just that - modifications. </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Starting at 27" - my natural waist measurement. This is a 22" steel-boned corset in an extreme curve silhouette.</i></b></td></tr>
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<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">Isn't it un-feminist to choose to corset train?</span></b></i></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">If you look through the history books and take note of the ever-changing female ideal, you will notice that bodies go in and out of fashion rather quickly. There is nothing more feminist than choosing which form you would like to take on - whether inspired by classical art, a literary figure, or avid intellectual. Inspiration is limitless. I find the current beauty standard of tan, tall (with an obligatory thigh gap), fake lips, fake boobs, contoured, stripper style ideal extremely insulting to my intellect and imagination. I don't like being told what to look like. I like to take pieces of history and fashion a story all my own. Corsets are not for everyone. I happen to enjoy the feeling of compression and control. I love fetishes. I love focusing on silhouette rather than sheer revelation - the idea of playing with shadows and light, protrusions and indentations... just as an artist would...it all fascinates me. Corset training is simply a form of body modification, much like wearing high heels (yes, those 6" Louboutins do force your foot into an extremely unnatural shape), wearing a push-up bra (look at how breast trends have changed in the past 100 years!), and is less extreme than plastic surgery and pregnancy. Yes, pregnancy. Did you know that pregnancy is one of the most extreme forms of body modification? In fact, the pregnant body shifts your internal organs and structure much more drastically than a corset ever could. Consider extreme body-building. Consider orthodontia. All body modifications.Those myths of rib removal? We each have what are called "floating" ribs, which are not attached directly to the breastbone and are actually designed to bend and shift according to the changes to your body in your lifetime. Corsets are not for everyone, and to some they may even seem cruel and grotesque, but to call them "un-feminist" is extremely ignorant. </span></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-size: large;">But doesn't it feel like a torture device?</span></i></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Not at all. As I stated before, I like the feeling of compression and control, and I wear stiff girdles on a regular basis. Actually, a lot of people choose to wear corsets to perfect their posture and to relieve back pain. As long as you have a corset that fits your form perfectly, you will not be in pain. In fact, a corset should never hurt you and if it hurts, take it off immediately! It is so important to choose a properly fitting corset. When choosing a corset, you must be realistic and stick with a corset that is ideal for your own body shape. A more boyish figure would probably not be as comfortable as I am in an extreme silhouette corset. Squishability is also a huge factor - if you are more lean and muscular, there will be less room for creating shape and it may feel more restrictive. Above all else, always listen to your body! </span></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-size: large;">One more thing...</span></i></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This is <b>NOT</b> a corset! These latex tubes that celebrities are toting as "waist trainers" do absolutely nothing for your figure and create a tubular shape. Please...just...no. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>This</b></i> is a corset:</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--D5Xidl9f_o/VzqEOmuwXQI/AAAAAAAAFYo/j2m74qWLWS4poODv9NIoLjNPqLZN8XnnACLcB/s1600/vamp-steel-boned-waist-training-corset.ct.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--D5Xidl9f_o/VzqEOmuwXQI/AAAAAAAAFYo/j2m74qWLWS4poODv9NIoLjNPqLZN8XnnACLcB/s640/vamp-steel-boned-waist-training-corset.ct.jpg" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>"Vamp" corset by What Katie Did</i></b></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>Comrade Von Pussycat</b></i></span></div>
Comrade Von Pussycathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15006428726087098782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7403652451916251023.post-2440754681195368432016-05-13T18:10:00.000-07:002016-06-02T13:31:06.496-07:00Pretty enough...<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-frrQ_CxZWJc/VzZ60ZXi7QI/AAAAAAAAFXQ/XDqx9DoZDvowG4qEdynEcugsoyQ2ebFWACLcB/s1600/12994423_10153730102146715_762077891526135745_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-frrQ_CxZWJc/VzZ60ZXi7QI/AAAAAAAAFXQ/XDqx9DoZDvowG4qEdynEcugsoyQ2ebFWACLcB/s320/12994423_10153730102146715_762077891526135745_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Pretty enough to date, but not pretty enough to marry - or was it the other way around? Too pretty to marry, but good for a fling? I was too afraid to ask. Both answers would leave a bitter taste in my mouth. This is what it feels like to live in a man's world. I don't make the rules, and if I broke any, I was a social pariah. Rape culture. Patriarchy. Misogyny. <br />
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<br />Comrade Von Pussycathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15006428726087098782noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7403652451916251023.post-58104176390857893892016-04-21T13:26:00.001-07:002016-04-22T11:14:52.619-07:00Things I Love: Glossier Boy Brow & Moisturizing Moon Mask! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Lp_ftjm1Fs4/VxBGNhWwZKI/AAAAAAAAFVw/-0mptPlBQHk4KJ6vDAFR7BoAByOvhbN1gCLcB/s1600/13015645_10153732065806715_2625899334129999026_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Lp_ftjm1Fs4/VxBGNhWwZKI/AAAAAAAAFVw/-0mptPlBQHk4KJ6vDAFR7BoAByOvhbN1gCLcB/s640/13015645_10153732065806715_2625899334129999026_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'm not ashamed to admit it - I've fallen for Glossier! Seeing all the hype and strong social media buzz of Glossier fans made me a little skeptical about the quality of the product, but I was pleasantly surprised that Glossier products actually deliver on all the hype (after all, cute packaging and emoji stickers can only get you so far). Plus, I love their motto of "Skin first, makeup second" and the fact that they aren't promoting fake tans, contouring, and duck lips. Glossier is for girls with their own set of beauty standards.</span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Mx0ktI0QTU8/VxBGunsIsKI/AAAAAAAAFV4/3qYplZFshMIJObAf49SIV2W2r6sCIP0vwCLcB/s1600/Glossier.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Mx0ktI0QTU8/VxBGunsIsKI/AAAAAAAAFV4/3qYplZFshMIJObAf49SIV2W2r6sCIP0vwCLcB/s640/Glossier.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-size: large;">Moisturizing Moon Mask</span></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This baby has become my go-to mask for reviving my tired skin after an arduous work week! It applies kind of like cold cream, then sinks in and becomes an invisible layer of moisture. When you wash it off it leaves your face feeling smooth, plump, and soft. It contains honey, hyaluronic acid, and aloe vera, which is nice. Any time there are natural plant-derived ingredients involved, I am happy. The texture of my skin is already more refined and smoothed, not just temporarily, but even days later. Moisturizing Moon Mask + Amara Organics Retinol Serum = magic!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">By the way, I paid for both products myself - this is not a paid review!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><u><b><i>Browspiration!</i></b></u></span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4YEC-SMyTdM/VxBOj3zdnsI/AAAAAAAAFWM/XCucW3Vgi4s21owmHow3lQwcSyXkP_qOgCLcB/s1600/browsCollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4YEC-SMyTdM/VxBOj3zdnsI/AAAAAAAAFWM/XCucW3Vgi4s21owmHow3lQwcSyXkP_qOgCLcB/s640/browsCollage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><u><b>Why Boy Brow?</b></u></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">There are few things that irk me more than overdrawn, artificial looking eyebrows - on men or women. Perfection is not my aim where my eyebrows are concerned. I fully embrace a little chaos, a touch of the unkempt. I'm not against full bush or unshaved armpits either. Think about the beauty standards that you embrace and why you embrace them. Is it really your ideal of beauty? Perfection and symmetry can be extremely boring. I love how an unkempt brow looks against an otherwise made up face! It is so fresh! A brow that is too sculpted runs the risk of taking away from your natural beauty, it is too distracting. </span><span style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: large;">I like seeing individual hairs, not one painted on eyebrow that looks powdered or coated in paint. You know that look when you take off all of your makeup at the end of the day and slather on the moisturizer, when your skin is all dewy and your brows are glossy and wet looking? That is the look that I'm after.</span></span><span style="font-size: large;"> I feel like donning an unkempt brow in the age of "brows on fleek" is an act of rebellion in a way. The one exception would be Marlene Dietrich brows, but even then, without the correct lighting, they lose their beauty. For me, it is best to stick with </span><i style="font-size: x-large;">au naturelle. </i><br />
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<i style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Boy Brow is money! It is like my eyebrows but better. No crunchiness. No sharpie effect. Just beautiful, full, natural looking eyebrows. You do need to a fairly decent brow to begin with though, it is less for corrective measures and more for taming and defining. </b></i></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-djteRj86wyU/VxB3PYRWHaI/AAAAAAAAFWw/DNfWOFzZjxcRNU5f9oin-vBZ42BXT95rwCLcB/s1600/miss%2Bjulie%2B12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-djteRj86wyU/VxB3PYRWHaI/AAAAAAAAFWw/DNfWOFzZjxcRNU5f9oin-vBZ42BXT95rwCLcB/s640/miss%2Bjulie%2B12.jpg" width="572" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qIUG9bp_4fg/VxB3ay9zZvI/AAAAAAAAFW8/U1Nd2YT6PZIK0yceLgI59EcZ-LG5L3NLwCLcB/s1600/skin2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qIUG9bp_4fg/VxB3ay9zZvI/AAAAAAAAFW8/U1Nd2YT6PZIK0yceLgI59EcZ-LG5L3NLwCLcB/s640/skin2.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-size: large;">Embracing "Museum Beauty"-</span></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Instead of looking to celebrities and the vapidity of the starlet scene for beauty tips, why don't we take a cue from the great masters of art and try to mimic a more divinely inspired form of beauty? Don't fake your bone structure - highlight those cherub cheeks and doe-like eyes with a touch of pale peach shimmer. Naturally pale or beautifully dark? Nothing is wrong with your natural skin color, don't let anyone convince you otherwise. Don't have "brows on fleek"? Trust me, beauty comes in all forms, colors, and sizes. Be you! You're beautiful <3</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>Comrade Von Pussycat</b></i></span></div>
Comrade Von Pussycathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15006428726087098782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7403652451916251023.post-13575410394156215732016-04-20T20:58:00.000-07:002016-04-20T20:58:43.030-07:00Dietrich, Forever!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TFhtj1fFDNU/VwcOMJooDLI/AAAAAAAAFUc/yUADXpr9x_Mhn2MNS0GpwUecLKwxWR7xw/s1600/Marlena.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="420" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TFhtj1fFDNU/VwcOMJooDLI/AAAAAAAAFUc/yUADXpr9x_Mhn2MNS0GpwUecLKwxWR7xw/s640/Marlena.gif" width="640" /></a></div>
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Comrade Von Pussycathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15006428726087098782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7403652451916251023.post-35524584924809946322016-02-23T18:41:00.001-08:002016-02-23T18:41:46.356-08:00All About Eve...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-K2OuZcsxgwo/VqbZVuurtZI/AAAAAAAAFRE/VORjv2jL8T4/s1600/Eve.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-K2OuZcsxgwo/VqbZVuurtZI/AAAAAAAAFRE/VORjv2jL8T4/s640/Eve.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">I have a horrible weakness for anything remotely serpentine. One of my most prized possessions is a small, bronze serpent ring with glowing crystal eyes. Her name is "Vesper". When I was single, I considered her to be a promise to myself. She was my bodyguard and amulet. If anyone dared cross me, one prize punch to the nose and she could make you bleed. I have a penchant for jewelry that doubles as a method of self-defense. Morbid, you say? With a sordid past like mine, you would understand why these things concern me. Remember the times you clutched your keychain, keys between each knuckle to form a deadly weapon - whilst silently praying that you would be safe? Most every woman has whispered that little prayer. </span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">Eve or Medusa?</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">Every woman embodies both. To think otherwise is to be laughably naive.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Comrade Von Pussycat</b> </span></i></div>
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Comrade Von Pussycathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15006428726087098782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7403652451916251023.post-10594132578130019052016-02-08T18:07:00.000-08:002016-02-08T18:12:35.602-08:00Lips the Color of Puttanesca!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MSY3thi86Y8/Vrk8Dvd6YjI/AAAAAAAAFR8/ih5c3JKSfHc/s1600/Besame2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MSY3thi86Y8/Vrk8Dvd6YjI/AAAAAAAAFR8/ih5c3JKSfHc/s640/Besame2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><b>Besame "Red Hot Red" - looks warmer in real life!</b></i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">There is just something about red lipstick. It just has a certain <i><b>je ne sais quoi</b> - non</i>? I have gotten to a point in life where I feel <i>naked </i>without a precisely defined bold lip. It doesn't always have to be red, but it has to provide adequate contrast to my <i>porcelain doll</i> visage. Red. Not only does a <i><b>blood red lip</b></i> conjure up that dangerous image of a <b>film noir femme fatale</b> - but pair a warm tomato red lip with an impossibly <i>tight</i> black skirt suit, sleek cat-eye sunglasses, and rustic raffia tote, and you have a classic <b>Italian screen goddess</b>. Red is simultaneously the color of whores and of glamour goddesses. Red has long since been the color of <b>sinners </b>and<b> heathens</b>. Red has so many incarnations - it can be difficult to choose simply<i> one</i> to be faithful to! This post will be strictly focusing on my favorite warm, orange-based reds. I haven't displayed them all, but here are my <b><i>fail-proof, tried and true, going steady</i></b> standbys:</span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TcGtJaEdmJ0/Vrk8R2OI3kI/AAAAAAAAFSA/4GvN-RUtGrw/s1600/Besame1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TcGtJaEdmJ0/Vrk8R2OI3kI/AAAAAAAAFSA/4GvN-RUtGrw/s640/Besame1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><u><b>MAC "Lady Danger"</b></u></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: small;">(Vivid bright coral-red [Matte] )</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"Lady Danger" was one of my very first reds (obviously if you are going to start with matte red lipsticks, you have to add MAC "Lady Danger" and "Ruby Woo" to your makeup bag - they are cult favorites for a good reason!). While "Lady Danger" is by no means smudge-proof, it is a fairly long-wearing matte formula that can last for a few hours. I actually prefer Besame lipsticks for their rich pigmentation (I love a stain to be left behind, although, not everyone does), but the vivid pure tomato red color of "Lady Danger" makes it one of my favorites.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><u><b>Limecrime "Suedeberry"</b></u></span></div>
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<i>(Coral-Red)</i></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">When Limecrime debuted their first Velvetine colors, "Red Velvet"and "Suedeberry", I snatched them both up immediately. Long-wearing, kiss-proof, smudge-proof, super pigmented liquid lipstick that dries to a velvet matte texture? Yes, please! My dreams came true! Although I wouldn't recommend a full-on makeout session, these babies can last allll day long - trust me, I've put them through the test time and time again. As long as you don't eat anything containing oil, these stay put very well. The formula feels light on the lips, isn't particularly drying, and, most importantly, does not ball up like cheaper formulations from the drugstore. I have tried so many liquid lipsticks and this is the only one that passes the test for me. "Suedeberry" is a little lighter and brighter than "Lady Danger", kind of a light, bright strawberry red. The perfect lipstick for a seaside adventure - you can swim in it and have absolutely nothing to worry about!</span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ew7YpJnY_Z4/VrlIf62a7lI/AAAAAAAAFSU/u5INgs7ErF4/s1600/BesameRHR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ew7YpJnY_Z4/VrlIf62a7lI/AAAAAAAAFSU/u5INgs7ErF4/s640/BesameRHR.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-size: large;"><u><b>Besame "Tango Red"</b></u></span></div>
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<i>(Peachy Orange-Red, perfect for golden and olive skin tones. A
semi-matte finish with one coat full coverage. The highest natural
pigment content for a smooth, indelible, feather-proof finish. Enriched
with squalene, vitamin C and aloe.)</i></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">As mentioned earlier, I find Besame's formulation to be my ideal - moisturizing yet semi-matte, highly pigmented, and instead of leaving an awkward red ring around your lips it fades and stains the lips fairly evenly. This makes required touch-ups minimal - which I love (who has the time to worry about their lipstick all day? Not I! I may look high-maintenance, but that couldn't be further from the truth!). I already have most of the Besame reds, but I added "Tango Red" so that I could have a less shocking red for day-time wear. I will be honest, when I twisted the gilded tube and first saw the color - I wasn't that thrilled. When I put it on? I fell in love! "Tango Red" is more muted than any of the other reds on this list, but once it is on my lips it reminds me of roasted red peppers and Mediterranean summers. It is a great first red lipstick if you are hesitant or shy about wearing red lips on a daily basis. </span> </div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s525Fnoxalw/VrlITDBrxaI/AAAAAAAAFSQ/hrlttJa6qSE/s1600/BesameRedHotRed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s525Fnoxalw/VrlITDBrxaI/AAAAAAAAFSQ/hrlttJa6qSE/s640/BesameRedHotRed.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><u><b>Besame "Red Hot Red"</b></u></span></div>
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<i>(Marilyn Monroe's favorite. A bold and brazen warm red. A
semi-matte finish with one coat full coverage. The highest natural
pigment content for a smooth, indelible, feather-proof finish. Enriched
with squalene, vitamin C and aloe.)</i></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">First of all, Besame is genius for coming out with their matchstick books! I had been deliberating for months on which lipstick color to try next, and when I saw that I could get a sample of a few different colors without committing to an entire tube - well, I'm not going to lie, I totally did a little happy dance! Upon first application, I immediately fell for "Red Hot Red" - it is a perfectly bright, classic tomato red that reminds me of puttanesca sauce and makes me feel like a character from a Vittorio de Sica film. Love! I am definitely going to buy the full-size version soon. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I hope you enjoyed this post and found it to be informative - as a fellow red lipstick lover I always enjoy reading reviews from other glamour enthusiasts! I will post my favorite blue-based reds at a later date. Until then, continue to paint those pretty pouts <u><b>red</b></u>! </span></div>
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<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">Comrade Von Pussycat </span></b></i> </div>
Comrade Von Pussycathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15006428726087098782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7403652451916251023.post-66682571641646371182016-01-22T20:33:00.000-08:002016-01-22T20:33:50.490-08:00My Secret Skincare Arsenal<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5qMhwodWp0c/VqL558EdeJI/AAAAAAAAFQo/c9UgoW0yIs8/s1600/NoirCity.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5qMhwodWp0c/VqL558EdeJI/AAAAAAAAFQo/c9UgoW0yIs8/s640/NoirCity.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>I've never believed in hiding my age. I've always thought the entire idea of hiding your age to be laughable and absurd. I refuse to believe that a mere number should serve to shame me into lying or submitting to some ridiculous notion that we get less beautiful with age. Honestly, I feel that my beauty has only just begun. I take care of what I have, however, and I am very selective when it comes to health and hygiene. </b></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>This is my very affordable, and effective, skincare routine:</b></i></span>
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I <b>rarely</b> wash my face with soap or water. Maybe a cold splash or two in the morning to wake up, that is about it.Tap water is usually sterilized and chlorinated, and the harsh chemicals can take a toll on your skin. </i></span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rKBdmft13jU/VqMAjXnVhlI/AAAAAAAAFQ0/ckttoK5U3kA/s1600/skin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rKBdmft13jU/VqMAjXnVhlI/AAAAAAAAFQ0/ckttoK5U3kA/s640/skin.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<u> <i><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>My Secret Skincare Arsenal:</b></span></i></u><span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><br /></b></span></i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>
</b></span><i><br />
<b>Tea tree oil cleansing pads</b> - instead of soap and water, I use these
makeup removal pads after cleansing with coconut oil to ensure that
every trace of makeup has been removed. Not only does it smell nice, tea tree oil is also an amazing
antiseptic!</i></span></i></span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><br />
<b>Virgin coconut oil</b> - I use this as a cleansing oil and a makeup
remover. I gently massage my face in circular motions and under my eyes
before wiping clean with a soft towel. Sometimes I also use a bit more
at the end of my nighttime routine if I need extra
moisture. Makes a great overall skin conditioning treatment and gives
you that glow usually reserved for swimsuit models - shiny!</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><br />
<b>Beauty balm -</b> I like to have a thick, waxy beauty balm available for
those extra dry days, but I also often use this on top of my retinol
serum to reduce the risk of any redness or excessive dryness that the
serum may cause. Also does wonders for moisturizing
tired eyes and lips!</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><br />
<b>Organic retinol serum</b> - this is still relatively new to me, but if
successful, I will write a review at a later date. Although I have no
discernible lines at 31, I can still see a slight difference in texture and a
few developing lines in a few spots, so I just wanted
to act quickly. Even though as a girl I used to get that bronzed glow, I
made a conscious effort to stop tanning in my early 20's (in spite of
the strange looks I got from my peers living the Laguna Beach lifestyle!), and I can say that I feel very
lucky that I don't have any sun spots or
premature wrinkles from my reckless romps in the sun!</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><br />
<b>Olive oil -</b> when anyone asks me what I use on my skin, this is my answer. No expensive creams here. Pricey doesn't necessarily equal effective, remember that! Although I currently keep my complexion pale and in my natural state, at heart I am a Mediterranean girl and I spent much of my childhood bronzed by the ancient Balkan sun. I naturally have the lightest golden-olive skin that bronzes very quickly and I can get quite dark. I used to sneak small amounts of olive oil from the gigantic metal can in the kitchen to use to moisturize my skin, and to this day I still use it. It is truly liquid gold.</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><br />
<b>Daytime lotion with SPF - </b>it is imperative that you find a day-time lotion with SPF in it, just to take the proper precautions.</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><br />
<b>Unsweetened Cranberry Juice - </b>a true glow comes from within! The
tartness might make you pucker, but trust me, it works wonders for the
skin and your immune system! I can honestly say that I've noticed a
change in my skin texture from drinking this 1-2 times
a day (in the morning and before bedtime). It is imperative that you
get 100% cranberry juice, not from concentrate and NO sugar added! </i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>A Smart, Sensible Diet - </b>I indulge on the weekends or whilst traveling, but during the week I eat sensibly. Listen to what your body is asking for. I am very lucky that my parents never bought soda and rarely bought junk food, it taught me to crave real food and this is why I maintain a healthy weight. I don't have a sweet-tooth, so sugar is never really a temptation - I love salty and savoury, but I limit indulgence to the weekend. When you wean yourself off of unhealthy eating habits, you will begin to hear your body asking for what it needs. Skip processed foods altogether and make things from scratch. Choose food that is in its natural state. You can prepare good food quickly, you don't need to resort to a frozen or packaged meal. Simple. It just takes knowledge and discipline. </i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><br />
<b>Maintaining a healthy weight - </b>I know that this is going to be different
for everyone, however, when I weighed 110 lbs. at age 25, I could
definitely tell that my skin was suffering. In high school I weighed
anywhere from 110-115 lbs and that was perfectly
fine then, but when I developed as a woman, such a slight weight
definitely was not ideal for my body. I lost weight due to an extreme
amount of stress, so that also contributed to the poor skin condition.
Being too skinny will make your skin lose elasticity
more quickly and have wrinkles show up sooner (trust me, too skinny isn't pretty!). Being too heavy is also
not good - it can contribute to hormonal imbalance and give you a double
chin! Everyone has a different ideal weight,
listen to your body and not to the "mean girls" or the latest issue of "Cosmo Girl".</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><i>The bottom line is this:</i></span></b>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>I am very particular about what goes into my body and what I put onto my skin, and since you only get one shot at it, you might as well look after it properly! <br />
</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>Comrade Von Pussycat</b></i></span></div>
Comrade Von Pussycathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15006428726087098782noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7403652451916251023.post-59642262753789511172016-01-08T22:28:00.001-08:002016-01-09T20:54:14.972-08:00Bond Villains Are Forever...<div style="text-align: center;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>My first hat! A 1940's mink and berry velvet tilt hat - it completely makes me feel part Bond villain and part Anna Karenina! Wearing my Besame "Red Velvet", a Christmas gift from my Bear <3 </b></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i> I don't believe in making New Year resolutions. I believe in the deliberate reinvention of self; the constant and inevitable evolution that we all face. Reinvention and personal evolution have been two of the main themes in my life. I find it thrilling to think of all of the possibilities that are at my fingertips. I relish knowing that I am in control of my image. I know that many people think that style is frivolous and inconsequential; I strongly disagree. The style that you develop can give you a transformative and even a deeply religious experience. There are few things that make a statement about who you are like your style does. Our style is like a window into our own mad little secret worlds. A deeply personal sense of style is incredibly empowering - and there are few things as satisfying. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8SfjvCkLq3s/VpCg6PFdfXI/AAAAAAAAFP0/IX-EV5SvhLA/s1600/simonedeb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8SfjvCkLq3s/VpCg6PFdfXI/AAAAAAAAFP0/IX-EV5SvhLA/s640/simonedeb.jpg" width="640" /></a></i></span></div>
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<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>I am constantly inspired by women like Valerie Von Sobel, Beatrix Ost, and Carmen Dell'Orefice who reject the notion that being beautiful and stylish is to be enjoyed exclusively during youth; and I am constantly inspired by so-called "unconventional" beauties such as Rossy de Palma, and Catherine Baba for their blatant rejection of the modern beauty standards that perpetuate the myth that a small nose is a pretty nose, that pillowy lips are the sexiest, and that contouring is your best friend. I'm growing tired and bored of seeing eyebrows on "fleek" (can we just get rid of that word altogether, please?), faces contoured into oblivion, and overdrawn lips. It is boring. I long for flaws and imperfection. I long to meet individuals who are unique, eccentric, and interesting...anyone who challenges the norm and doesn't look like a blow-up doll clone.</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>A glamorous transformation is at your fingertips...how imaginative are you? Be an original! What do you have to lose?</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IJEfV1Y_850/VpCbtaciV2I/AAAAAAAAFPQ/Mvf2be2dGTM/s1600/bondvillains.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IJEfV1Y_850/VpCbtaciV2I/AAAAAAAAFPQ/Mvf2be2dGTM/s640/bondvillains.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Channeling my inner Bond villain!</b></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>I've been thinking a lot lately about signatures - from vocabulary to nail lacquer. I've long since been inspired by vintage James Bond (Vesper Lynd is my spirit animal, forever!), tales of espionage, pulp fiction, film noir, Russian fairy tales, Italian & French New Wave film (Fellini! Visconti! De Sica!), Neorealism, the sepia-tone photographs by Jacques Henri Lartigue and explicit photographs of Guy Bourdin... and so much more. I long to express these influences through my style - and I often pick a few references on a daily basis. While I know that I could never stick to that "10 Piece French Classic Wardrobe" ( I have way too many fantasies in my head to live out!) - I do see the appeal of having signatures. I like the idea of having a few steady, foolproof tricks. Here is a list of things that have become my personal signatures:</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><i> <b>"Dollface"</b></i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Black pin-curled hair</i></span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Cat-eye </i></span></b><span style="font-size: large;"><i>in the <b>blackest</b> eyeliner possible!</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>Red nail lacquer - </b>my favorites are <b>NARS "Chinatown"</b> and <b>Estee Lauder "Envious"</b></i></span><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Seamed stockings</i></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><i> </i></span></b></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Rjv5GvPa3AY/VpHgNUz6YUI/AAAAAAAAFQE/cQVvdhrQI8I/s1600/dita.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Rjv5GvPa3AY/VpHgNUz6YUI/AAAAAAAAFQE/cQVvdhrQI8I/s640/dita.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><u><b><i>"Your Beauty Mark" by Dita Von Teese </i></b></u></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Finally, a beauty book that "gets" me. Because I belong to that tribe of glamorous eccentrics, I have long since come to terms with the ridicule and strange glances. I used to be much more concerned with these things in my early adulthood, even though, for the most part, I didn't let other people affect the way that I wanted to present myself to the world. Sometimes, though, after hearing comments like, "Why do you wear so much makeup?" - "Do you use makeup to hide?" - "It looks like you're trying too hard" - or "Why are so dressed up?" - I let these snarky remarks sink in a little too deeply and, at times, I would even have to question my own motivation for wearing my signature cat eye (I've been using liquid liner since...ever since I can remember! I think age 13?) and dark lipstick. I remember purchasing my very first nail lacquer in a bright cherry red, and along with it, a cherry scented red roller lip-gloss - I was 11. So to allow myself to feel like an impostor is unfortunate. I've worked very hard to cultivate the qualities that I possess today, both the physical and more intangible elements. It's taken a lot of blood, sweat, and tears to become the woman that I am today. Regardless of how much you try to block out irrelevant comments, however, we will never be completely impervious to them. Dita's book gave me the reassurance of being in good company - and with each turn of the page I was reminded WHY I am the way I am today. Not everyone will understand your journey, but don't let anyone make you question your validity. Some people may think you are insane, other people may thing that you are the most interesting individual on the planet and admire you for your eccentricities. The bottom line is this: never let anyone question your worth. Love yourself. Improve yourself. Invest in yourself. You have a long journey ahead - why not love every moment of it?</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>George the cat interrupts your regulary scheduled program for cuddles and pets - good night!</i></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>Comrade Von Pussycat</b> </i></span><br />
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Comrade Von Pussycathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15006428726087098782noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7403652451916251023.post-89613146255211561862016-01-07T22:11:00.000-08:002016-01-07T22:11:28.608-08:00Christmas Proper!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>This Christmas was particularly special to me. As the eldest of six children, you can imagine how difficult it is to get everyone together at one time! This year was the first year in about eight years that we were all home, living in our native California. My sister also married a Macedonian man, my brother was in the Marines (thank you for your service, Stu!), I lived abroad for a few years, etc. It was heart-warming to see everyone together, and while Christmas is most definitely not about the gifts, it touched my heart to see that the spirit of giving among my family members and significant others. I love my crazy, beautiful, big family!</i></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OwA9HX5TWk0/Vo9II4mUc7I/AAAAAAAAFOo/ZkwzsSYCDW0/s1600/buchedenoel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OwA9HX5TWk0/Vo9II4mUc7I/AAAAAAAAFOo/ZkwzsSYCDW0/s640/buchedenoel.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>My Grandma's traditional recipe, "Buche de Noel" that celebrates our French heritage! She even dips glossy citrus leaves in dark chocolate and peels them off to create the most beautifully realistic chocolate decorations - and some years she makes hand made meringue mushrooms dusted with cocoa powder.</b></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9iOEft08GYY/VoSD_A07G1I/AAAAAAAAFNQ/JtKQ3r-xG6I/s1600/Christmas5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9iOEft08GYY/VoSD_A07G1I/AAAAAAAAFNQ/JtKQ3r-xG6I/s640/Christmas5.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Bulgaria; 1991-ish - the sibs and I carrying our Christmas branch (we couldn't source a proper tree because Bulgaria as Christmas trees are more of a Western European tradition and in those days Bulgaria had just come out of Communism, so celebrating Christian holidays was relatively new). My parents used to smuggle Bibles through Eastern Europe because they were illegal - we moved to Bulgaria to plant an evangelical church. More on that adventure another time!</b></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pgnAty8e9WA/VoSEBI16ePI/AAAAAAAAFNY/h5VS7Zv4mdA/s1600/Christmas3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pgnAty8e9WA/VoSEBI16ePI/AAAAAAAAFNY/h5VS7Zv4mdA/s640/Christmas3.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Christmas proper! I love dressing in festive ways - wearing a vintage 1950's knit sweater in pine green and a 1950's cherry and cream wiggle skirt with matching belt. </b></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n3tvZV4dJDE/VoSEGAo3ecI/AAAAAAAAFNg/07dVNYHdPcw/s1600/OeufsCocotteauxGirelles1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n3tvZV4dJDE/VoSEGAo3ecI/AAAAAAAAFNg/07dVNYHdPcw/s640/OeufsCocotteauxGirelles1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Also tried out a new recipe for our weekend brunch - Oeufs de Cocotte aux Girolles. I love eggs with a soft, oozing yolk and this recipe was so luxurious!</b></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>"Oeufs Cocotte aux Girolles" with toasted peasant bread</b></span></td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Being married to a Macedonian, we also celebrated Orthodox Christmas or "Bozik" on the 7th of January - on Christmas Eve, called "Badnik" in Macedonia, I quickly whipped up the traditional bread with a coin in it - the tradition is to break the bread and divide it into God, Home, and for each member of the family. The coin was found in God's piece of bread this year, which, I believe is fitting!</i></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">I hope you all had a wonderful holiday season filled with much <b>love, joy, and kindness! </b></span></i></div>
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<br /></div>
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<i><b>Comrade Von Pussycat</b></i></div>
Comrade Von Pussycathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15006428726087098782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7403652451916251023.post-67400186322790363762015-12-15T21:54:00.001-08:002015-12-15T21:54:29.297-08:00Glimmers of Hope...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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A little peek into what I've been up to:</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Channeling my inner M. Gustave <3 </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Xl3Sh2ULDV4/VmZkCQTUQyI/AAAAAAAAFMA/vksOHbS69ZA/s1600/12249946_10153412314006715_6334253699881401584_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Xl3Sh2ULDV4/VmZkCQTUQyI/AAAAAAAAFMA/vksOHbS69ZA/s640/12249946_10153412314006715_6334253699881401584_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Consuming way too many Maple Bacon Doughnuts <3</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cold feet no more! Finally bought a rug for the kitchen - I love the cream and soft blue color scheme. Slightly reminiscent of the pastel hues so adored by the French court. And it is so toasty warm when I make coffee in the morning! </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thanksgiving Pecan Pie - usually my baking goes fairly smoothly. This year, however, the pie gods were not with me, but I managed to salvage the extremely delicate and finicky pie crust by doing a little creative decorating! Sometimes you just need to pour yourself a stiff one and make a conscious effort to relax and enjoy the process.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There is nowhere like Grandma's house <3</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0edWEh3On0U/VnD6gBjx-xI/AAAAAAAAFM4/lgXpeRmWEo0/s1600/GingerbreadCake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0edWEh3On0U/VnD6gBjx-xI/AAAAAAAAFM4/lgXpeRmWEo0/s640/GingerbreadCake.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I only really make Gingerbread cake once a year, and although the effort this year was a little rushed, once again, decorations saved the day!</td></tr>
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<b><i>Comrade Von Pussycat</i></b></div>
Comrade Von Pussycathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15006428726087098782noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7403652451916251023.post-88312503367902356972015-12-07T20:54:00.000-08:002015-12-07T20:54:19.414-08:00A Very Russian Winter - 1950's Quilted Skirts & Ulyana Sergeenko<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>By now you all know that I am perpetually dreaming of being stuck in an Eastern European fairy-tale. I adore anything that reminds me of my childhood spent in remote Balkan villages inhabited by scarf wearing babushka's. Ulyana Sergeenko's designs definitely make my heart twinge with the fresh sting of nostalgia. I can't afford her designs, however, because she draws so much inspiration from decades past, it was relatively easy to replicate some of her signature looks. This beautiful 1950's quilted skirt was a steal at $14, and it is so much more substantial than many modern counterparts. It will definitely keep me toasty during the cold Winter months, especially with a pair of soft wool stockings underneath! </i></span></div>
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<i><b>Comrade Von Pussycat</b></i></div>
Comrade Von Pussycathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15006428726087098782noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7403652451916251023.post-61679422372383756222015-09-14T14:58:00.002-07:002015-09-14T15:13:30.771-07:00A Few Simple Pleasures...<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BEe4JGfd4EE/VfccBXIjaiI/AAAAAAAAFHc/6XiYA2Vy38M/s1600/12011205_10153301501986715_4900972545822534053_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BEe4JGfd4EE/VfccBXIjaiI/AAAAAAAAFHc/6XiYA2Vy38M/s640/12011205_10153301501986715_4900972545822534053_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;"><i>One of my favorite 1940's rayon dresses in dark navy with cream polka dots - practical and beautiful. It reminds me of the dresses that little old ladies wear in the village. I have a strong affinity for dressing like a peasant - I've never felt particularly comfortable in expensive or designer things.</i></span></b></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><i>"Don't explain your philosophy. Embody it."</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">- Epictetus</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> Life is simply a series (sequence) of fond memories and simple pleasures. Ever since I can remember, I've felt a strong magnetic pull toward the natural, simple things in life. Even as a little girl I saw the beauty in the most modest of my surroundings. I suppose growing up in provincial settings has also contributed to my deep love of village life, although even before that, the nature of my native California completely captivated me as a child. My soul has never been much impressed by earthly riches. <b><i>I truly, deeply believe that a person can be deliriously happy with very few material possessions, in spite of being surrounded by a society that urges you to consume, consume, consume. </i></b>I find it deeply disturbing that my peers are obsessed with fame & celebrity, money, conformist beauty, and material possessions to the point of existing merely to obtain these fleeting pleasures (?). This isn't even coming from a religious perspective, simply a philosophers perspective.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I know I often proclaim my love for <i><b>Federico Fellini</b></i>'s work here, but another reason I deeply respect the man is because of his blatant disregard for money. He rarely carried it. He rarely knew how much of it was in his bank account. He didn't make films with the end goal of obtaining it. Whenever I watch one of his films, or a <i><b>Vittorio de Sica</b></i> film, I can see the most mundane details in a beautiful, almost <i>ethereal</i>, light. <i><b>Housewives wearing simple rayon dresses and wooden clogs coming home from the market carrying cloth bags full of peasant bread, onions, and fresh tomatoes. Stout, sun-wrinkled old ladies in perfect chignons watching their grandchildren play in the cobblestone alleys of the village. Weathered old men in worn trousers and wife-beaters playing chess at the cafe, slowly sipping something clear from shot glasses and shouting obscenities at each other.</b></i> <u>I adore village life.</u> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I am a natural born idealist of the highest order. I see beauty in most things. As an INFJ, I am a strange mix of maverick and traditionalist; empath and hermit; hedonist and innocent. I am constantly a walking contradiction. I absorb other peoples feelings upon first contact, and I can feel your perspective without you explaining it. I know how you feel about everything. Why am I writing this? Because I want to tell you that it is the simple things in life that truly matter. It is my wish that this blog will serve as a documentary of sorts. A documentary of a series of simple pleasures that are attainable to every person, regardless of background and social status. </span></div>
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<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">Take time for yourself. Be positive. Indulge in the little things. Breathe deeply. Take in the details. Put your phone down. Be a conscious being. Feel deeply. Express yourself. Don't let bitterness or regret dominate your life. Don't be afraid of what other people think. Don't be a cynic. Be present. Just be.</span></b></i><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H5T1yV86mFQ/VfdFNNT2VRI/AAAAAAAAFIg/ILD9Nk5f4xI/s1600/caprese.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H5T1yV86mFQ/VfdFNNT2VRI/AAAAAAAAFIg/ILD9Nk5f4xI/s640/caprese.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Enjoying the late Summer produce in the best way
possible - a Caprese salad comprised of fragrant basil, ripe tomatoes,
and fresh mozzarella.</i></span></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Beautiful bread. Bread is so important to me. I could never give it up.</i></span></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Is it just me, or does an egg just make anything more luxurious? Saturday morning breakfasts in our home are usually comprised of a hearty piece of toast, smeared with fresh chive cream cheese, topped with creamy avocado, and finished with a slow-poached or crispy fried egg. I call them slutty-fried eggs ;) Add sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Such an aphrodisiac!</i></span></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-954V7dIiikg/Vfccii-fteI/AAAAAAAAFH8/yRqZxuUn4q8/s1600/11905777_10153301501126715_7537408636979824604_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-954V7dIiikg/Vfccii-fteI/AAAAAAAAFH8/yRqZxuUn4q8/s640/11905777_10153301501126715_7537408636979824604_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><b>Autumn decorating - I decided to rearrange a few things around the house and found three of my favorite books to display, along with these brightly colored clementines in an olive green glass candy dish. Surrounding myself with beautiful details makes me happy.</b></i></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-D1zqwfOd7bo/VfccubQkYsI/AAAAAAAAFIE/tTiP9hvXjRo/s1600/1391980_10153280404051715_3105704125012421916_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-D1zqwfOd7bo/VfccubQkYsI/AAAAAAAAFIE/tTiP9hvXjRo/s640/1391980_10153280404051715_3105704125012421916_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;"><i>You don't have to be rich to afford style or luxury. I love serving fresh fruit on these vintage dessert pedestals, they always add a subtle touch of glamour to the room.</i></span></b></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>Comrade Von Pussycat</b></i></span></div>
Comrade Von Pussycathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15006428726087098782noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7403652451916251023.post-3554658143751106542015-09-10T11:44:00.001-07:002015-09-10T11:44:14.284-07:00The Beautiful Sad Rose Of The Nile: Princess Fawzia of Egypt<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5ta52ql4qzk/Ve_E_M_3xkI/AAAAAAAAFFM/p8y1-zxirRs/s1600/Iran_Fawzia_bint_Fuad_of_Egypt2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5ta52ql4qzk/Ve_E_M_3xkI/AAAAAAAAFFM/p8y1-zxirRs/s640/Iran_Fawzia_bint_Fuad_of_Egypt2.jpg" width="494" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Princess Fawzia of Egypt - Queen Fawzia of Iran</i></span></b></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>From the moment I first saw pictures of Princess Fawzia of Egypt, I knew that I had to dedicate a post to her love of glamour - a woman who is never caught without her signature blood red lipstick is certainly worthy of the title "Style Icon" in my book! From her signature pincurled raven tresses to her enigmatic noir red pout, Fawzia clearly favored the 1940's film noir femme fatale aesthetic, and I can't find a single picture of her looking anything but immaculate. Her beauty rivaled the film stars of the time...Hedy Lamarr, Vivien Leigh, Elizabeth Taylor. This beauty, however, truly did not live the fairy-tale that usually goes along with being born a princess. Princess Fawzia was a pawn in a greater political chess game, and the Sunni princess married a Shia prince, Crown Royal Mohammed Reza Pahlavi of Iran, making her Queen of Iran. In Tehran, which was not nearly as cosmopolitan as Cairo, Queen Fawzia suffered a bout of malaria, severe depression, and felt betrayed by her husband, the Shah, due to his adulterous nature. Indeed, their marriage, while it provided numerous beautiful glossy photographs for the world press, failed after a mere six years. The fact that their only child, Princess Shahnaz Pahlavi, would be required to remain in Iran after Fawzia moved back to Cairo, devastated the Princess. After moving back to Cairo, the Princess lived a quiet, private life and passed away at the age of 91 in Alexandria, Egypt, on 2 July 2013. Though born a princess, there would be only a modest ceremony; no glorious processions or nationally televised funeral services worthy of a royal. I can only dedicate this humble post to the beautiful sad rose of the Nile - Princess Fawzia you will always be an inspiration to me.</i></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Always regal - even when donning a simple pair of jodhpurs and crisp cotton shirt, Fawzia always managed to look every part the royal that she was</i>.</b></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Shah Mohammed Reza Pahlavi and Queen Fawzia off-duty (I presume!) - don't they look like film stars? I love the delicate ivory snood and button-up blouse on Fawzia, such a beautiful casual look.</i></span></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7OTfNmV5PKA/Ve9ZgPLKOYI/AAAAAAAAFBk/gGaXrqHHkMs/s1600/282550_130717037020237_6789033_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="450" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7OTfNmV5PKA/Ve9ZgPLKOYI/AAAAAAAAFBk/gGaXrqHHkMs/s640/282550_130717037020237_6789033_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Even in motherhood, she always managed to paint on that signature film noir pout and look like a total femme fatale!</i></span></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Fawzia donning a typical 1940's hairstyle, gorgeous draped rayon dress, and suede peep-toe wedges. I wish there were more color photographs of her outfits!</i></span></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Pincurls, Noir Red lipstick, and pearls = perfection!</i></span></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Perfectly poised - Fawzia definitely had a passion for dolling up! Those ivory peep-toe platforms, so droolworthy!</i></span></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;"><i>High contrast - Fawzia loved to let her glossy dark tresses take the spotlight by wearing bright whites and softer hues.</i></span></b></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>Comrade Von Pussycat</b></i></span></div>
Comrade Von Pussycathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15006428726087098782noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7403652451916251023.post-39263433685156788472015-09-08T14:15:00.000-07:002015-09-08T14:15:40.063-07:00September, Tea Times & Autumn Wishlists<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_Qd2s1CHedE/VeogbtNkjEI/AAAAAAAAE9E/AApcyF8eCzs/s1600/TurmericGingerTea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_Qd2s1CHedE/VeogbtNkjEI/AAAAAAAAE9E/AApcyF8eCzs/s640/TurmericGingerTea.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Au naturel - fresh ginger tea with a dusting of powdered turmeric (look at that color!) Also chock full of health benefits by the way!</i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I know that there are still a few weeks left of Summer, but I couldn't resist posting a few of the items on my Autumn wishlist. I love Autumn fashion very much! Thick wool tweeds, fluffy Angora sweaters, glossy leather boots in dark chestnut or rich cognac, merlot-stained lips, cinnamon spiked latte's...what isn't delicious in the Autumn?</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tnpp6ah86gg/VeokVAqLCTI/AAAAAAAAE9Q/KnOW1yEs778/s1600/1930s%2Bshapewear.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tnpp6ah86gg/VeokVAqLCTI/AAAAAAAAE9Q/KnOW1yEs778/s640/1930s%2Bshapewear.jpg" width="498" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Pretty Foundation Garments - as I've mentioned before on this blog, I abhor ugly foundation garments (Spanx, I'm looking at you...). The frothy confections of the 1930's, 1940's, and 1950's are such a far cry from the flesh colored sausage casing that you find everywhere today in modern stores, and although they are 70+ old, they still manage to be structurally sound due to the top-notch quality. I would love to add a few pieces in soft peach and pale champagne colors to my Autumn wardrobe. </i></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1960h_pxME0/Veolq-ZHAcI/AAAAAAAAE9c/bb6zoPiOT0s/s1600/1930s%2Bdress1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1960h_pxME0/Veolq-ZHAcI/AAAAAAAAE9c/bb6zoPiOT0s/s640/1930s%2Bdress1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>1940's dresses in dark chocolate rayon - I just love the versatility of chocolate, chestnut, and mink hues. Less severe than black, more depth than beige, and the color pair so well with furs! I especially would like to add more peplum dresses to my wardrobe...</i></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7_8SGVEzKkc/Veoop8V5uhI/AAAAAAAAE9w/cKzT1EXD5uk/s1600/Autumn1Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7_8SGVEzKkc/Veoop8V5uhI/AAAAAAAAE9w/cKzT1EXD5uk/s640/Autumn1Collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Fur trimmed tilt hats & thick wool coats - once again, the 1940's aesthetic strikes again. </i></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Stockings and sweaters! I love everything about this photograph :)</i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">That's all for now - but I assure you, there will be a ton more Autumn inspiration posts in the near future!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Comrade Von Pussycat</i></b> </span></div>
Comrade Von Pussycathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15006428726087098782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7403652451916251023.post-27822213085083925862015-09-08T13:24:00.003-07:002016-04-10T17:06:36.428-07:00Cardboard Angels<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Comrade Von Pussycathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15006428726087098782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7403652451916251023.post-47228949013725762222015-09-08T13:18:00.000-07:002015-09-09T10:42:04.223-07:00The Last Days Of Summer<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>The golden hills of California</i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This Summer has passed by so quickly, it seems that I blinked and now Autumn is just around the corner. <u><b>I love Autumn</b></u> - the <i>moody weather</i>, the <i>burnt ochre</i> and <i>crunchy rust colored leaves </i>underfoot, the <i><b>cozy </b></i>wool knits and <i><b>seamed stockings</b></i>! I love it all. I love the earthy taste of <b>pumpkin</b> (although I will be making my own PSL's, thank you very much!), and I will relish the return of <b><i>hearty stews soaked up with crusty pieces of peasant bread </i></b>and <i>hot cups of peppermint tea before bedtime</i>. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Summer. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This Summer wasn't particularly eventful - we didn't go on vacation because we made a trip earlier this year to the Bear's motherland. One of my favorite activities (year-round) is hiking. I am an avid outdoorswoman. I get nearly <i>all </i>of my exercise by hiking. I truly do not believe that we were made to exercise in a little cement box, suffocated by the stifling smell of perspiring bodies. <i>I just can't do it.</i> <b><i>One of my favorite things to is to buy a rustic loaf of bread and layer charcuterie, red onion, fresh basil, cheese, and peperoncini to create a hearty lunch, pack a bottle of water (I use recycled glass bottles, no plastic), put on sunscreen, and head out into the gilded hills for a few hours.</i></b> I usually do a six mile loop, half of which is uphill, so it really makes you work for your lunch! There are few things that are as satisfying as enjoying a meal out in the <u><i>silence of nature</i></u>. The fresh air, the sun, the birds singing...it is just magical. My personality needs a <u><i>LOT</i></u> of quiet time and solitude, so getting away from bustling city life is of the utmost importance to me. Often times I daydream of what it would be like to live alone in the woods, or to ride horseback through the hills and camp under the stars at night as my ancestors did. I've always been a country girl at heart. <i><b>When I was a young girl I would come home at night with sap in my hair from climbing the top of pine trees all day.</b> <b>I could dive deeper into the lake than all of the neighbor boys, and once retrieved a huge rock from the bottom just to prove it.</b></i> <b><i>One time, when visiting a small village in Albania, I hopped onto a strange black horse and galloped, bareback, down the dirt road following Lake Prespa, just hanging on to its glossy dark mane and praying that I wouldn't fall off.</i></b> I am often struck by the sting of nostalgia for those times. At least, for now, I can enjoy the languishing last days of summer.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1950's pale mint cotton dress with the sweetest bright white daisies! Shoes by B.A.I.T </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1D5GTpml6IU/Ve82Y2v-jGI/AAAAAAAAE_Q/9dDSQi0am3A/s1600/11023150_784727421617695_288201993_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1D5GTpml6IU/Ve82Y2v-jGI/AAAAAAAAE_Q/9dDSQi0am3A/s640/11023150_784727421617695_288201993_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Wild sunflowers</i></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RaQDN0SxPy4/Ve82hNr2cHI/AAAAAAAAE_Y/zNGEjmTtKmw/s1600/11898647_10153239586636715_750663680033680604_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RaQDN0SxPy4/Ve82hNr2cHI/AAAAAAAAE_Y/zNGEjmTtKmw/s640/11898647_10153239586636715_750663680033680604_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Triple digit heat - hence the soft makeup!</i></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w0mPFmVkaOE/Ve823QcJD6I/AAAAAAAAE_g/EOuEf3y3HT0/s1600/1435881316.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w0mPFmVkaOE/Ve823QcJD6I/AAAAAAAAE_g/EOuEf3y3HT0/s640/1435881316.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Gingham always reminds me of picnic tablecloths!</i></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hrHcXi15xIc/Ve825hhDmhI/AAAAAAAAE_o/pAugx9kl0gI/s1600/1435889527.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hrHcXi15xIc/Ve825hhDmhI/AAAAAAAAE_o/pAugx9kl0gI/s640/1435889527.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Chipped cherry-red nail polish and a nice cold beer </i></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O-72WQAPocQ/Ve83CWccmlI/AAAAAAAAE_w/iU2QUphXrvQ/s1600/1434230007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O-72WQAPocQ/Ve83CWccmlI/AAAAAAAAE_w/iU2QUphXrvQ/s640/1434230007.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Summer fruits!</i></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p4dPHQIp3lw/Ve83KDWd61I/AAAAAAAAE_4/Dfg_TmNUeB0/s1600/1435950243.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p4dPHQIp3lw/Ve83KDWd61I/AAAAAAAAE_4/Dfg_TmNUeB0/s640/1435950243.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>A bevy of blueberries</i></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HBzXFXhwnGw/Ve83L4lYzJI/AAAAAAAAFAA/TSpxg2JY2so/s1600/1435892440.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HBzXFXhwnGw/Ve83L4lYzJI/AAAAAAAAFAA/TSpxg2JY2so/s640/1435892440.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Smoothies for those hot summer nights</i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>Comrade Von Pussycat</b></i></span></div>
Comrade Von Pussycathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15006428726087098782noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7403652451916251023.post-503123026296456442015-07-23T11:30:00.003-07:002015-07-23T11:30:38.007-07:00Favorites: Raggedy Tiff by Jessica Resendiz!<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>I can't even explain to you how much I adore these pieces by Jessica of <a href="http://raggedytiff.com/shop/" target="_blank">Raggedy Tiff</a>! I definitely do not promote fast fashion/big brand/irresponsible consumerism (which is part of the reason I buy vintage), but I truly believe that if you are going to invest in a new creation, you should definitely support local and small businesses. Jessica truly is an artist - from the Schiaparelliesque ruby velvet El Corazon applique sweater to the whimsical Chola/Frida earrings - I am sure you will fall in love with her designs just as much as I have after you see her work!</b></i></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SJVSd29TEUw/VbExCvyBEfI/AAAAAAAAE6E/Io-CKaV6FVw/s1600/RTcorazon.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SJVSd29TEUw/VbExCvyBEfI/AAAAAAAAE6E/Io-CKaV6FVw/s640/RTcorazon.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><b>"El Corazon" ruby velvet pillow - $60</b></i></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-v30nFMSoOAk/VbExDyha70I/AAAAAAAAE6M/uyNRZ1aJNpo/s1600/RTcorazon2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-v30nFMSoOAk/VbExDyha70I/AAAAAAAAE6M/uyNRZ1aJNpo/s640/RTcorazon2.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><b>"El Corazon" sweatshirt - $75</b></i></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-i4uCbIucCes/VbExcI4SXcI/AAAAAAAAE6c/5TwM2REi1CY/s1600/rtfrida2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-i4uCbIucCes/VbExcI4SXcI/AAAAAAAAE6c/5TwM2REi1CY/s640/rtfrida2.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><b>"La Frida" necklace - $30</b></i></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MVEf3LGj9Dc/VbExc_N1KjI/AAAAAAAAE6k/PDEtNjZ6id0/s1600/rtluna.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MVEf3LGj9Dc/VbExc_N1KjI/AAAAAAAAE6k/PDEtNjZ6id0/s640/rtluna.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>"Luna" mother of pearl earrings - $45</i></b></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Comrade Von Pussycat</i></b></span></div>
Comrade Von Pussycathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15006428726087098782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7403652451916251023.post-83922759892124663072015-07-22T11:21:00.000-07:002015-07-22T11:21:10.483-07:00Style Inspiration: The Love Affair of Manolete & Lupe <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vOeC0O6bPeQ/Va_UXFITNkI/AAAAAAAAE4w/_S55YCK0di4/s1600/manoleteylup1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="358" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vOeC0O6bPeQ/Va_UXFITNkI/AAAAAAAAE4w/_S55YCK0di4/s640/manoleteylup1.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Manolete y Lupe <3</i></b></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Why is it that <span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>tragic love</b></span> stories are so irresistible? Maybe it is because they make you feel something <b>deeper</b>. When it comes to the love story of the legendary <span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Spanish matador Manolete </b></span>(<span>Manuel Laureano Rodríguez Sánchez) and his servant-turned-filmstar lover, <span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Lupe Sino</b></span>, I just can't get enough. There is something so magnetic about their tale of <span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>passion </b></span>and Manolete's other mistress, <span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Death</b></span>. In fact, in bullfighting it is said that <span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>you have to be a little bit in love with death...</b></span></span></i></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fMPMIJ-0Kfw/Va_XO6WtfmI/AAAAAAAAE48/ItT6mBUPZw0/s1600/11755262_10153182709746715_3031243178546286058_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fMPMIJ-0Kfw/Va_XO6WtfmI/AAAAAAAAE48/ItT6mBUPZw0/s640/11755262_10153182709746715_3031243178546286058_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Religious art never fails to inspire me...</i></b></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M8JqnJKGIAk/Va_XU0PIPjI/AAAAAAAAE5E/BPYgz5mAoyw/s1600/1402119203.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M8JqnJKGIAk/Va_XU0PIPjI/AAAAAAAAE5E/BPYgz5mAoyw/s640/1402119203.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>I adore Lana <3</i></b></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><span>I've always had a flair for the dramatic and even though I find myself in the throes of summer and face-melting triple digit weather - I can't wait to invest in a beautiful vintage <span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>mantilla comb</b></span> and <span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>cathedral length black lace veil</b></span>. Along with being deeply inspired by <span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Spanish</b></span> traditional dress, I also adore <span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><u>Diane Pernet</u></b></span>, who never leaves the house without a black veil! A woman after my own heart. The older I get, the more I realize that <span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>being a sex symbol is not my priority</b></span> - I value <span style="font-size: x-large;"><u><b>eccentric glamour</b></u></span> more than anything. </span></i></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1kicBcOqD6A/Va_YqcsAalI/AAAAAAAAE5Q/eIxFcOZqYuY/s1600/11693981_10153180887046715_1912806883706913027_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1kicBcOqD6A/Va_YqcsAalI/AAAAAAAAE5Q/eIxFcOZqYuY/s640/11693981_10153180887046715_1912806883706913027_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Food for thought!</i></b></span></td></tr>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;"><span>I don't know about you, but I truly love to capture the vision of who I want to be on paper. I hadn't sketched for some time, so I poured myself a glass of <span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Cabernet Sauvignon</b></span>, grabbed my sketching pad, sharpened my pencil, and just began putting down what came to me. I didn't have watercolors, so I figured a little wine couldn't hurt to give her a <span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>blush of color</b></span>. I am pretty pleased with the end result! I present to you, my dear <span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Lupe</b></span> <3</span></span></i></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9cat1yGjHaw/Va_aopm6s2I/AAAAAAAAE5g/EBXIkiOIjTU/s1600/11737924_10153182715691715_819924279429553412_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9cat1yGjHaw/Va_aopm6s2I/AAAAAAAAE5g/EBXIkiOIjTU/s640/11737924_10153182715691715_819924279429553412_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Thank you, Mr. Cab Sav ;)</i></b></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-48HQXx5Jqxw/Va_cJtOKgiI/AAAAAAAAE5w/ZclXoHZ4zEA/s1600/11745826_10153182791166715_5499649296832498333_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-48HQXx5Jqxw/Va_cJtOKgiI/AAAAAAAAE5w/ZclXoHZ4zEA/s640/11745826_10153182791166715_5499649296832498333_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>I know its blurry, but I liked the ethereal effect :)</i></b></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CmnULVGMu6g/Va_bKM0uFcI/AAAAAAAAE5o/CuGuFmwqyLQ/s1600/10410666_10153182710886715_2038120066479255466_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CmnULVGMu6g/Va_bKM0uFcI/AAAAAAAAE5o/CuGuFmwqyLQ/s640/10410666_10153182710886715_2038120066479255466_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Favorite things!</i></b></span></td></tr>
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<span><span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Comrade Von Pussycat</i></b></span></span></div>
Comrade Von Pussycathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15006428726087098782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7403652451916251023.post-32326920890551462932015-07-16T14:15:00.000-07:002015-07-16T14:15:52.988-07:00Fire-Roasted Tomato & Chipotle Pepper Soup<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lBOgTMl6W6M/VZoKmbXbZuI/AAAAAAAAE3Y/ghMpeun2e2o/s1600/chipotletomatosoup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="622" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lBOgTMl6W6M/VZoKmbXbZuI/AAAAAAAAE3Y/ghMpeun2e2o/s640/chipotletomatosoup.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><b>Get creative with the garnishes!</b></i></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><b> </b></i></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><b> </b></i></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><b> </b></i></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h0Sr7xDuqCg/VZoKtPVpvqI/AAAAAAAAE3g/ubu0m2iUz4Y/s1600/1432518505.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h0Sr7xDuqCg/VZoKtPVpvqI/AAAAAAAAE3g/ubu0m2iUz4Y/s640/1432518505.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Roasted garlic and red peppers for the soup - roasted sweet corn would be a great addition too!</i></b></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_Dvs0572HvE/VZoKvgt0gHI/AAAAAAAAE3o/MW1AcVnG2LI/s1600/1432523271.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_Dvs0572HvE/VZoKvgt0gHI/AAAAAAAAE3o/MW1AcVnG2LI/s640/1432523271.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Serve with plenty of warm tortillas!</i></b></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><i>Fire-Roasted Tomato & Chipotle Pepper Soup</i></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="ingredientGroup" style="clear: both;">
<ul style="text-align: center;">
<li class="ingredient"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>
<span class="amount">
</span><span class="name">Olive oil</span></i></span>
</li>
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>
</i></span></ul>
</div>
<div class="ingredientGroup" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<ul>
<li class="ingredient">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><span class="amount">
1 </span><span class="name">onion, chopped</span></i></span>
</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div class="ingredientGroup" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<ul>
<li class="ingredient">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><span class="amount">
Garlic cloves, roasted</span></i></span>
</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div class="ingredientGroup" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<ul>
<li class="ingredient">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><span class="amount">
3-4 roasted red peppers, peeled and cleaned</span></i></span>
</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div class="ingredientGroup" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<ul>
<li class="ingredient">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><span class="amount">
2 28 <span class="space"> </span>
ounce<span class="space"> </span>cans </span>
<span class="name">whole fire-roasted tomatoes</span></i></span>
</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div class="ingredientGroup" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<ul>
<li class="ingredient">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><span class="amount">
1 14 1/2<span class="space"> </span>
ounce<span class="space"> </span>can </span>
<span class="name">chicken broth</span></i></span>
</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div class="ingredientGroup" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<ul><span style="font-size: large;"><i>
</i></span>
<li class="ingredient"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>
<span class="amount">
1 <span class="space"> </span>
</span>
<span class="name">chipotle chile in adobo sauce, chopped</span></i></span>
</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div class="ingredientGroup" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<ul>
<li class="ingredient">
<span class="amount">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Additions & garnishes: avocado, sour cream, cilantro, black beans, fried tortilla strips, shredded chicken, side of grilled cheese, pickled jalapenos</i></span></span></li>
</ul>
<span class="amount"> </span></div>
<div class="ingredientGroup" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<ol>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span class="amount">In a medium to large size stock pot, saute onion in olive oil until translucent.</span></b></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span class="amount"> Put all ingredients into a blender (except for the garnishes, naturally!) and puree until smooth.</span></b></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span class="amount">Pour soup into stock pot and heat to desired temperature. You can also serve this chilled, it is delicious either way.</span></b></span><span class="amount"><span style="font-size: large;"><b> </b></span></span></li>
<li><span class="amount"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Ladle into soup bowls and garnish as desired! </b></span></span></li>
</ol>
<span class="amount"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Comrade Von Pussycat</i> </b></span></span></div>
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<span class="amount"><span class="space"></span></span><span class="name"></span>
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Comrade Von Pussycathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15006428726087098782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7403652451916251023.post-33203478955017564112015-06-30T16:03:00.002-07:002015-07-01T18:05:47.392-07:00Puerco Pibil So Good You Might Just Die For It.<div style="text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Rn8GJMTJ9nc/VZOHnUZc0VI/AAAAAAAAE0w/BvnQNR8fN5M/s1600/puercopibil1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Rn8GJMTJ9nc/VZOHnUZc0VI/AAAAAAAAE0w/BvnQNR8fN5M/s640/puercopibil1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
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So last week I had a dream about <span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Puerco Pibil</b></span>. Yes, I know, one of these things is not like the other. That whole <i>"omg, don't I look, like, so effing hot in my rainbow colored LuluLemon yoga pants and drinking my gluten-free sugar-free (fun-free) totally organic freshly squeezed green juice omg I hafta, like, totally IG this and send it to my BFF because its the best thing since baby unicorns and fat-free froyo #blessed"</i> thing is just not my bag, baby. Don't get me wrong, I have nothing against trying to eat clean and be healthy - but I hate how people act like lemmings and jump into a diet or "lifestyle" trend just because it is touted by a few popular girls as the new black. Sure, I drink green smoothies on occasion and work out - its just not obsessive. <b><i>You know what is sexy?</i></b> <i>A girl eating a nice piece of bloody meat.</i> Yes, like, literally, <b>BLOODY</b>. A girl who can eat a nice steak is fucking sexy...and unfortunately, a dying breed. So, anyways, I made<b> <span style="font-size: x-large;">Puerco Pibil</span></b><span style="font-size: x-large;">. <b>Cochinita Pibil</b>.</span> Whatever you want to call it, it is damn <u><i>delicious</i></u>. I don't know about you, but if I had my way, every man on the planet would learn how to prepare <b>Puerco Pibil</b>. In fact, it should be a prerequisite before marriage. This is one of those recipes that will become an <i>instant classic</i> from the first time you take it out of your oven. <b><i><span style="font-size: x-large;">Do you want to know what heaven smells like? Prepare this and then get back to me.</span> </i></b>This is that good. Even if you don't consider yourself a great cook, try this. Effort is minimal and the payoff is well worth it! Perfect date night dish in my opinion...I mean, is there anything more beautiful? </span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Oon51lMDFPI/VZQ8WmWTMcI/AAAAAAAAE1c/2A0YbCmCGvc/s1600/puercopibil2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Oon51lMDFPI/VZQ8WmWTMcI/AAAAAAAAE1c/2A0YbCmCGvc/s640/puercopibil2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Anyone who knows me knows that I have a thing for <span style="font-size: x-large;"><i><b>Robert Rodriguez</b></i></span>. But really, can you blame me? The guy behind <b>El</b> and <b>Cherry Darling</b>? I mean, come on, <b>El</b> is the coolest character of all time...and Rodriguez is pretty fucking cool himself. And I just discovered the coolest thing about him - the man can cook. If that isn't a turn on, I don't know what is. In his own words:</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> <i><b>----------------------------</b></i> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>"Not knowing how to cook is like </b></span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>not knowing how to fuck..." </b></span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>- Robert Rodriguez</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>--------------------- </b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/pPRKIYFw9dU/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pPRKIYFw9dU?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">I'll just leave this right here...</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Puerco Pibil (Cochinita Pibil)</b></span></u></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i> <span style="font-size: large;">by Robert Rodriguez</span></i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Ingredients</i></span></div>
<ul id="ingredient_list" style="text-align: center;">
<li><span class="ingredient">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="amount">5 pounds</span> <span class="name"><b>pork butt</b>, cut into 2 inch cubes</span>
</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="ingredient">
<span class="amount">5 tablespoons</span> <b>annato seeds</b> (achiote)<span class="name"></span>
</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="ingredient">
<span class="amount">2 teaspoons</span> <b>cumin seeds</b><span class="name"></span>
</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="ingredient">
<span class="amount">1 tablespoon</span> whole <b>black peppercorns</b><span class="name"></span>
</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="ingredient">
<span class="amount">1/2 teaspoon</span> <b>whole cloves</b><span class="name"></span>
</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="ingredient">
<span class="amount">8 whole</span> <b>allspice berries</b><span class="name"></span>
</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="ingredient">
<span class="amount">2</span> <b>habanero peppers</b>, cleaned and diced<span class="name"></span>
</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="ingredient">
<span class="amount">1/2 cup</span> <b><span class="name">orange juice</span></b>
</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="ingredient">
<span class="amount">1/2 cup</span> <b><span class="name">white vinegar</span></b>
</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="ingredient">
<span class="amount">8</span> <b><span class="name">garlic cloves</span></b>
</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="ingredient">
<span class="amount">2 tablespoons</span> <b><span class="name">salt</span></b>
</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="ingredient">
<span class="amount">5</span> <b><span class="name">lemons </span></b><span class="name">(I used limes)</span>
</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="ingredient">
<span class="amount">1</span> <span class="name">shot of <b>tequila</b></span>
</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="ingredient">
<b><span class="amount">banana</span> </b><span class="name"><b>leaves</b> (optional)</span>
</span></span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-size: large;">
<span class="instructions"><span class="instructions"></span></span></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="instructions">
</span></span><br />
<h5>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="instructions">
Preparation Instructions</span></span></h5>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="instructions">
<span class="instructions">
Grind the annato seeds, cumin seeds, whole peppercorns, whole cloves,
and whole allspice in a mortar and pestle, molcajete y tejolote, spice
grinder or coffee grinder. <br />
Blend the cleaned and chopped habanero peppers with the orange juice, vinegar, garlic and salt.<br />
Mix the dry spices with the liquid. <br />
Add the juice of 5 lemons and a nice splash of tequila.<br />
Place the cubed pork butt in a large zip lock bag and add the marinade. Soak 4-6 hours, in refrigerator, turning several times.<br />
Line (8x13) baking pan with banana leaves. Pour in pork along with
the marinade. Cover with Banana leaves and seal the pan with foil. Bake
in a 325 F degree oven for 4 hours.</span></span></span><br />
<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kR-ABpQ9qGs/VZOH6Es8bAI/AAAAAAAAE04/LewXh-HEk-k/s1600/puercopibil.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="334" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kR-ABpQ9qGs/VZOH6Es8bAI/AAAAAAAAE04/LewXh-HEk-k/s640/puercopibil.gif" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span class="instructions" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="instructions">Serve at your own risk <i>(preferably with pickled red onion and a ton of good tequila)</i>. </span></span><br />
<span class="instructions" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="instructions">Enjoy!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="instructions"><span class="instructions"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9I6FYIOzquI/VZMedrkhmsI/AAAAAAAAE0I/cRD1N0Fb55M/s1600/11419110_1609548239315824_1895002029_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9I6FYIOzquI/VZMedrkhmsI/AAAAAAAAE0I/cRD1N0Fb55M/s640/11419110_1609548239315824_1895002029_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></span></span></div>
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<td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>Comrade Von Pussycat</b></i></span></td>
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Comrade Von Pussycathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15006428726087098782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7403652451916251023.post-65935665019791412942015-06-30T14:35:00.000-07:002015-07-02T22:55:36.497-07:00Honeymooning In The Riviera Maya: Playa Del Carmen!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b><u><span style="font-size: large;">First impressions: </span></u></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">We flew into Cancun International (CUN), naturally, as it was the closest airport to<i><b> <a href="http://www.playadelcarmen.com/" target="_blank">Playa del Carmen</a></b></i>. The Bear and I <i>really</i></span><span style="font-size: large;"> try to avoid tourist traps (although sometimes they are justified), which is why we completely avoided the big name hotels in Cancun and decided to stay in Playa del Carmen instead in hopes of seeing more of the local culture. My favorite thing about Cancun International? The cocktail bar outside! August in the Yucatan is <i><b>HOT</b></i> and <i><b>HUMID</b></i> (goodbye pincurls!), and hits you <b>smack</b> in the face as soon as you exit the airport. Which is why I greatly appreciate the fact that you can order an <i>ice cold beer</i> or <i>Coco Loco</i> as soon as you get off of the plane! </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Obligatory tropical fruit mixed booze upon arrival - I ordered a cantaloupe agua fresca because I was so thirsty!</i></b></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Obligatory chips and guacamole/salsa!</i></b></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><b>Sunset in Playa del Carmen</b></i></span></td></tr>
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<b><u><span style="font-size: large;"> Hotel Kinbe: </span></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">There were so many quaint little boutique hotels to choose from in Playa del Carmen, and <a href="http://hotel-kinbe-playa-del-carmen.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Hotel Kinbe</b></span></a> was no exception. I forgot to take pictures of the hotel, but you should check out the link and see for yourself. <b><i>They have a gorgeous indoor/outdoor pool in the lobby, which was perfect for a midnight dip after way too many tequila shots and countless mojitos! </i></b>We booked a room that had a beach view and private rooftop terrace - it was gorgeous! I really loved the shower (is that weird?) because it had a natural stone floor and a window that opened overlooking the street below. It was also conveniently located in the center of town, about 50 meters away from the beach. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><b>Our private terrace at Hotel Kinbe!</b></i></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dRWSsPqekmA/VZLOObzSjHI/AAAAAAAAEyU/i0sejr_nDp4/s1600/1407888886.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dRWSsPqekmA/VZLOObzSjHI/AAAAAAAAEyU/i0sejr_nDp4/s640/1407888886.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>I love all of the colorful buildings! There was also a coconut stand across the street :)</i></b></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U2mATsuCMXk/VZL939A0UJI/AAAAAAAAEzA/cvIUxnAzKzQ/s1600/Mexico20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U2mATsuCMXk/VZL939A0UJI/AAAAAAAAEzA/cvIUxnAzKzQ/s640/Mexico20.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><b>Downtown Playa del Carmen</b></i></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-r33a_ZhyRnM/VZYjlsgsDZI/AAAAAAAAE2M/eFE-JEk5Y5Q/s1600/Mexico19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-r33a_ZhyRnM/VZYjlsgsDZI/AAAAAAAAE2M/eFE-JEk5Y5Q/s640/Mexico19.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>A beautiful church in downtown Playa del Carmen</i></b></span></td></tr>
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<u><b><span style="font-size: large;">The cuisine of the Yucatan:</span></b></u></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I have to say that the restaurant options in Playa del Carmen severely disappointed me. I really expected more regional cuisine and less nacho stands (not even traditional Mexican cuisine!) and pizza joints (there were soooo many!). One of my pet peeves is when servers automatically assume that because you are a "gringo/a" you don't like/can't handle hot and spicy. I live for spicy, tangy, sour, tart, bitter, salty, etc. My palate gets bored very easily (mostly because its been very spoiled!). Nearly every restaurant we went to, I had to specifically request the "not for gringo" dishes - much to the amusement of my servers! One of the more memorable dining experiences was when we went to <span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>"<a href="http://mayacuisine.com/" target="_blank">Yaxche</a>"</b></span> - a high end restaurant specializing in traditional Maya cuisine. Naturally, when one visits the Yucatan, one must try the famous <i><b>Cochinita Pibil </b></i>(Yucatan style slow roasted pork that is marinated in citrus juice and bright red annato paste, then baked in a banana leaf). I definitely had a <b><i>"Once Upon A Time In Mexico" </i></b>moment ;)</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B9T_KTq7Kec/VZK8af4FCAI/AAAAAAAAEwg/lB0iWX-Xhm8/s1600/P1050998.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B9T_KTq7Kec/VZK8af4FCAI/AAAAAAAAEwg/lB0iWX-Xhm8/s640/P1050998.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Cochinita Pibil here we come! I forgot to take a picture of it, damn...too busy living life I guess :P</i></b></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qI_hfc1uFBY/VZK5394iwhI/AAAAAAAAEwU/It5JHmVqdX4/s1600/Mexico9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qI_hfc1uFBY/VZK5394iwhI/AAAAAAAAEwU/It5JHmVqdX4/s640/Mexico9.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Beautiful presentation at restaurant "Las Delicias"</i></b></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N7TM93MJmzE/VZK86XzaBZI/AAAAAAAAEwo/X-li3B4FhFc/s1600/P1060002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N7TM93MJmzE/VZK86XzaBZI/AAAAAAAAEwo/X-li3B4FhFc/s640/P1060002.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Chips and guacamole were everywhere...not that I have a problem with that. See that bright green sauce on the left? BEST THING EVER! Guess what? I discovered the secret formula...more to come!</i></b></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RjJKiLbnuqk/VZLBgssmnCI/AAAAAAAAExM/U6QxEH8v6ik/s1600/Mexico10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RjJKiLbnuqk/VZLBgssmnCI/AAAAAAAAExM/U6QxEH8v6ik/s640/Mexico10.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Besides bottomless margaritas, fresh seafood Ceviche was my favorite way to beat the tropical heat! The balance of freshly squeezed lime, crisp cilantro, sweet red onions, and beautiful array of seafood is just perfect.</i></b></span></td></tr>
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<u><b><span style="font-size: large;">Beauty and the late August humidity:</span></b></u></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">If you decide to visit the <i><b>Yucatan Peninsula</b></i> in the peak of summer, let me just prepare you for a little of what to expect. This was my first time experiencing a <b><i>tropical heat</i></b>, which is so much different than Mediterranean summers. Unless you are sitting by the beach/pool all day in your swimwear, be prepared to be damp all day. Wear the </span><i><span style="font-size: large;">lightest</span></i><span style="font-size: large;"> of fabrics, and know that at some point of the day you will be all wet from sweat (especially if you are out sightseeing). Needless to say, pincurls do not fare well in this kind of humidity (at least mine didn't, even with setting lotion)! Again, <u><i>be prepared</i></u> and practice your updo skills and bring a ton of cute hair accessories (<b><i>Carmen Miranda style <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/162798982/you-pick-3-carmen-miranda-mini-fruit?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=shopping_us_accessories-hair-clip-low&utm_custom1=1aa4e19a-9a5d-47ec-a05f-f413e2edd2ec&kpid=162798982&gclid=CjwKEAjw_MisBRCTuNPfoMqU4ngSJACrJv1VBXL2qHHu0qup7-wJMNMCttww-wAYtXNDKmNxBPC73RoC_tDw_wcB" target="_blank">fruit clips</a></i></b>, floral hair clips, and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Goody-Simple-Styles-Assorted-Colors/dp/B003FVDNO6" target="_blank">spin pins</a> (best invention ever!). <u><b>Waterproof</b> </u>eyeliner and mascara (if you are planning on wearing makeup) is an absolute necessity! Longwearing lip colors are also a wise investment - <b><i><a href="https://www.limecrime.com/velvetines/" target="_blank">Limecrime's Velvetine</a> in Suedeberry </i></b>(a bright orange based red) was a definite go-to throughout my trip! </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rRNtUjEnbzM/VZL5fNlh7DI/AAAAAAAAEy0/yMmwDQ-8a1Q/s1600/1398022618.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rRNtUjEnbzM/VZL5fNlh7DI/AAAAAAAAEy0/yMmwDQ-8a1Q/s640/1398022618.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Wearing Limecrime Velvetine in Suedeberry</i></b></span></td></tr>
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<u><b><span style="font-size: large;">What I packed:</span></b></u><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I had a lot of fun shopping for this trip! Brightly colored <i>peasant skirts</i>, high waist bikinis in <b><i>citron stripes</i></b> and <b><i>leopard prints</i></b>, tight black peasant tops, ankle tie <i>espadrilles</i>, 1940's <i>playsuits</i>, and lots of fun accessories like those lemon yellow lucite hoop earrings pictured above. <i><b>Remember to pack comfortable walking shoes.</b></i>..espadrille wedges are always my go to sightseeing shoes because they are easy to walk in, absorb shock, and also happen to be very stylish. <i><u>Espadrilles never go out of style!</u></i></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8UMkLOnkxYk/VZLIfx4Gv4I/AAAAAAAAExc/7l3wDpl3Sm4/s1600/1406845845.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8UMkLOnkxYk/VZLIfx4Gv4I/AAAAAAAAExc/7l3wDpl3Sm4/s640/1406845845.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>A tropical inspired wardrobe: 1950's tangerine colored lace peasant skirt and 1940's citron striped high waist bikini. </i></b></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nVNgCOYDozU/VZLpuZ-EnkI/AAAAAAAAEyk/_F88P1YbeN8/s1600/11427396_841081355975228_1420704184_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nVNgCOYDozU/VZLpuZ-EnkI/AAAAAAAAEyk/_F88P1YbeN8/s640/11427396_841081355975228_1420704184_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></i></b></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>DIY tip: for extra support, sew a supportive nude bra into your swimsuit top. If you are a DD or larger, you know how frustrating shopping for supportive swimwear is! Necessity is the mother of invention...</i></b></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-83gqQE3ku-0/VZLJB_xnYFI/AAAAAAAAEx8/Zdlvr8u3hjk/s1600/1515871_668074296573502_1594038591_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-83gqQE3ku-0/VZLJB_xnYFI/AAAAAAAAEx8/Zdlvr8u3hjk/s640/1515871_668074296573502_1594038591_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Muy caliente!</i></b></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FXHloP4XmEY/VZLIp4jKusI/AAAAAAAAExs/-ywY8lcg_9I/s1600/MexicoWardrobe%2BCollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FXHloP4XmEY/VZLIp4jKusI/AAAAAAAAExs/-ywY8lcg_9I/s640/MexicoWardrobe%2BCollage.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i>Achiote hues and the most adorable rope tie belt! </i></b></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><b>1940's playsuit in creamy banana plaid with Bakelite buttons!</b></i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">All in all, although a bit too touristy for my taste, Playa del Carmen was a pretty little town and best of all it was relatively close to a lot of archaeological sites that I was dying to see, including (but not limited to): <i><b><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tulum" target="_blank">Tulum</a>, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chichen_Itza" target="_blank">Chichen Itza</a>, </b></i>and <b><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coba" target="_blank"><i>Coba</i></a>. </b>It was also closely located to <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Valladolid,_Yucat%C3%A1n" target="_blank">Valladolid</a> (a Spanish colonial town), <a href="http://www.xcaret.com/" target="_blank">Xcaret </a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">(</span><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="st">the best eco-archaeological park in Cancun and Riviera Maya), and of course, the Cancun International (CUN) airport. I am still not sure if I would return to Playa del Carmen, not because I didn't enjoy it, but because I realized that I am not the type of person who likes to lounge on the beach for the entire length of my vacation. Thankfully there were enough tours based out of Playa del Carmen, or I would have gotten bored very quickly! I will write individual posts for both Tulum and Chichen Itza later on :)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>Comrade Von Pussycat</b></i></span></div>
Comrade Von Pussycathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15006428726087098782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7403652451916251023.post-8725190845879516902015-06-05T14:58:00.003-07:002015-06-05T17:59:47.568-07:00Besame Noir Red, Gourmandises & My Life Of Crime<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>A good red wine, meat in tube form, and beautiful lipstick. Life is about savoring the little pleasures. I hate the term "guilty pleasure". Why the fuck should I ever feel guilty about eating anything? I can tell you right now, I am not one to go to for diet advice - actually, I've never been on a diet in my life. I don't believe in it, its against my philosophy</i>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i><b>"Never trust a woman who doesn't like to eat. </b></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i><b>She is probably lousy in bed"</b></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i><b> - Federico Fellini</b></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>I would add to this. Never trust a woman who doesn't like to eat. She is probably a lousy friend. I trust people who eat well. I admire a woman who can consume an entire baguette, a wedge of triple cream brie, and a whole bottle of red wine (no wine spritzers, please...I know, I'm such a snob) in one sitting and not feel like she has committed a cardinal sin. I admire a woman who just doesn't give a fuck about what the latest diet trends are and still eats bacon even though it is the anti-christ of the health world. I'll be completely honest...if you are an obsessive calorie counter, can't go anywhere without ordering a skinny girl margarita, and basically live at the gym...we will probably not get along very well.</i></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Maria Callas obviously knew how to choose her friends! </td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Anyways, I digress. Being the <b>gourmand</b> that I am, I couldn't resist smuggling in a few foodie goodies back into the country on our way back from Macedonia, and thankfully, my precious undocumented meat in tube form made it across the border and lasted a whole two weeks...savored to its very last spicy, fatty bite. I have a weakness for <b>smoked</b> and <b>cured </b>meats. <b>Kulen</b> (a traditionally Croatian cured meat in tube form) has always been my favorite as it contains a <b>rich smoked paprika</b> and a unique mixture of earthy spices from the Balkan region. It is also one of the toppings on my favorite pizza <b>"Il Diavolo"</b>, which I always order at restaurant <b>Cosa Nostra</b> when I visit my adopted hometown <b>Ohrid</b>. </i></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-INM5FMJ2tAM/VXIX7S5St7I/AAAAAAAAEu4/soyR59phF8s/s1600/11376418_1423162024673878_2034603627_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-INM5FMJ2tAM/VXIX7S5St7I/AAAAAAAAEu4/soyR59phF8s/s640/11376418_1423162024673878_2034603627_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hello, beautiful :)</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Also, we discovered another amaaaaaaaazing Californian wine this weekend...<b>Carnivor</b>'s Cabernet Sauvignon is deep, dark, and delicious!</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>And this spicy <b>Habanero Cheese</b> from <b>Sonoma Jack</b> is another new favorite! Anyone who knows me knows that I could live on cheese alone...</i></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Rt9hrsWiqTU/VXIY2V3M5NI/AAAAAAAAEvI/XoqxZI4Jbcw/s1600/11142146_358762364333528_1044357683_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Rt9hrsWiqTU/VXIY2V3M5NI/AAAAAAAAEvI/XoqxZI4Jbcw/s640/11142146_358762364333528_1044357683_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Last but not least, my new favorite lipstick! <b>Besame Noir Red</b>! Anything wine colored and vintage inspired is right up my alley...and it makes me feel like a modern day flapper ;) All I need is a garter flask and freshly bobbed hair...</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>Comrade Von Pussycat</b></i></span></div>
Comrade Von Pussycathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15006428726087098782noreply@blogger.com0