tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17709019923610945242024-03-12T21:58:34.903-07:00The Vintage ProjectMelinda Djemanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853970999477760060noreply@blogger.comBlogger172125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1770901992361094524.post-61561672774369109562015-04-22T22:01:00.001-07:002015-04-22T22:10:00.320-07:00This Charming Dame Lesson 10 - Walk the Walk"I don't know who invented high heels, but all women owe him a lot."<br />
-Marilyn Monroe<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://opusdesiderium.tumblr.com/post/40335559128/opusdesiderium" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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I have very distinct memories of trying on my mother's heels as a little girl. Doing so always made me feel so glamorous and I would dream of the day that I would be old enough to have heels of my very own! Many, many years later, I am still a huge fan. To me, they're absolutely magical!<br />
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While getting my hair done a while back, I was flipping through a magazine and came across an article: <a href="http://www.allure.com/shopping/fashion-designer/2012/oscar-de-la-renta-style-essentials#slide=5" target="_blank">'10 Things Every Woman Should Have' by Oscar de la Renta</a>. One of the items on this list was A Confident Walk. The quote that accompanied this was "You have to walk like you have three men walking behind you." Some of my friends were offended and/or upset at this assertion, stating that the sentiment was sexist, kinda creepy, and just plain wrong. While I can see where they were coming from, when I read this quote, I immediately knew what de la Renta meant by it. There is something about a woman who inherently knows how to walk in heels. She exudes a certain something. A power. A confidence. She has an air about her that not only men, but women as well, can quickly identify and most certainly notice. Quite simply, she casts a spell.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://mes-grasses-matinees.blogspot.com/2013_06_01_archive.html" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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Coco Chanel once said, "A woman with good shoes is never ugly." I disagree. Marilyn Monroe also had a love affair with the heel and at one point said, "Give a girl the right shoes and she can conquer the world." but that's only half right. The other half of the equation is a woman's ability to REALLY walk in them! A woman who stomps around or wobbles like a newborn calf in heels is not powerful or sexy - no matter how fabulous the shoe. Can every woman live in heels? No. Can every woman pull off a stiletto? Absolutely not! Is there anything wrong with that? Again, I would say no. You do whatever it is that you CAN do.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://ladyroadkill.blogspot.com/2010/05/sharing-circle.html" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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Audrey Hepburn made the <a href="http://www.realsimple.com/beauty-fashion/shoes-accessories/shoes/comfortable-kitten-heels" target="_blank">Kitten Heel </a>her trademark. If she wasn't in ballet flats, you could bet she was in a Kitten Heel - and it is widely accepted that she is one of the most glamorous women of all time. The lesson with a high heel is this: if you can, go for it. If not, find whatever it is that works for you. (Perhaps that's really the lesson when it comes to most things.) It's best to avoid the heel altogether if you find yourself unable to feel safe and comfortable and ESPECIALLY if you are not one of those women who feel like a million dollars in them. Because I've been wearing them for so long and have a lower center of gravity due to my smaller stature (translation, because I'm short), I won't give a pair of heels under 4-inches a second look. I'm steadfastly a 4 to 5 inch heel kinda girl! Manolo Blahnik has said that "the height of a heel should depend on how dangerous you are feeling." So, by that logic, I suppose I'm always feeling pretty ballsy!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://keepdaddyhappy.tumblr.com/post/77414242491/nets" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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"People walk differently in high heels. Your body sways to a different kind of tempo."</div>
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-Manolo Blahnik</div>
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So, what do you do if you have simply never given the whole heel thing a proper try? Well, I'm glad you asked! Years ago, I was in <a href="http://www.zgallerie.com/" target="_blank">Z Gallerie</a>, arguably the happiest place on earth (for me). For many, it's Disneyland, for me it's Z Gallerie. Just thinking about it makes me happy! They always have so many gorgeous, glamorous things and a truly fabulous <a href="http://www.zgallerie.com/c-194-books-stationery.aspx?Ns=srt1" target="_blank">book selection</a> to boot! Their selection consists mainly of novelty or coffee table books. I LOVE going to someone's home and finding books stacked or strategically placed, you get such great insight as to who they really are. Wow - I have REALLY digressed....</div>
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So, long story long...I found a super fun book at Z Gallerie many years ago entitled <i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/How-Walk-High-Heels-Everything/dp/1401302750/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1429682723&sr=1-1&keywords=how+to+walk+in+high+heels" target="_blank">How to Walk in High Heels: The Girl's Guide to Everything</a></i>. It pretty much covers it all - from how to get ready in 5 minutes to how to deal with a bad hair day, hangover, or locking yourself out of your house to how to catch a mouse, hang wallpaper, or feng shui your home to the MOST IMPORTANT thing (and also most relevant to this conversation) - how to walk in high heels! Bet you didn't see that one coming.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-2175891/Short-British-women-copy-Cheryl-Cole-Victoria-Beckham-wear-Europes-highest-heels.html" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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This little treasure covers every aspect of learning to walk in high heels from starting at the grocery store using the cart for balance and leverage to the type of heel that is right for you to how to walk on varying surfaces (ugh, cobblestones are "the HORROR of all HORRORS"!) and how to navigate stairs. I do not agree with every point the author makes - for example, I would disagree that investing in a pair of Manolo Blahniks is necessary or even possible for most women, but by and large there is some really great information here to ultimately get you to the point of strutting in your stilettos - it truly is an art! </div>
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Something else to keep in mind - while I can spend all night in a pair of 5-inch stilettos, I know my limitations. There are simply some things that most women will NEVER be able to do in heels. Running down the street à la Carrie Bradshaw is one of them. I have made peace with the fact that I am one of these people that will never be able to pull that off. And you probably should as well. If there is only ONE piece of advice that you take away from this post, let it be this: most people will never be able to run in heels without falling down or breaking something (and doesn't that really defeat the whole point of a fabulous shoe?). So take comfort in knowing that if you've got a great strut, one where your hips sway gracefully and confidently from side to side, a walk that you indisputably own, one that makes you feel powerful and beautiful, taking a little bit of extra time to get where you're going is totally worth it - and the added time gives those around you more of an opportunity to appreciate your ability to navigate in a great pair of heels. Everyone's a winner!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://mix967.ca/blogs/2013/07/expert-95-of-women-dont-know-how-to-walk-in-high-heels-properly/" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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Ladies, OWN your walk! Learn how to do it right and make sure you've got the right shoe. Like Dita Von Teese has said, "Heels and red lipstick will put the fear of god into people." But carrying your shoes home (and potentially stepping on something and contracting some weird foot disease) will not.</div>
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So for all that is good and holy, do NOT be this girl. You're better than that.</div>
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If you still need some more help, consult Google. There are TONS of YouTube videos that will teach you how to walk in heels and I've also seen classes on the subject. You've got options to help get you there!</div>
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<i>Happy Strutting, Kittens!</i></div>
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<i>XOXO!!</i></div>
Melinda Djemanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853970999477760060noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1770901992361094524.post-68475665015148664532015-04-19T21:51:00.001-07:002015-04-20T09:19:45.445-07:00Mad Men Cocktail Hour - The Brandy AlexanderGood Evening Lovelies!<br />
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This past week has absolutely FLOWN by - I cannot believe we've already found ourselves back at Sunday. Without realizing it at the time, I chose a cocktail for last week's episode that will work well in the spirit of keeping this post short and sweet and posted with more than 5 minutes to spare before tonight's episode! And without further ado, last week's featured cocktail was the Brandy Alexander. The first time I'd ever heard of the Brandy Alexander was when my fabulous friend Stephanie had the girls over for an afternoon of arts and crafts and cocktails last fall. While this is more of a fall-inspired libation since it incorporates a sprinkling of nutmeg, when I ran across it listed on the <a href="http://www.amctv.com/shows/mad-men/cocktail-guide" target="_blank">Mad Men Cocktail Guide</a>, I knew I had to revisit it. And after not really being a fan of the Martini from the week before, I thought a sure thing was the way to go - and a good excuse to use the fireplace. Not that I needed the warmth (I was simultaneously running the A/C), but it set a festive mood!<br />
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Yes, this is more of a desert drink - creamy and slightly sweet, but the Brandy ensures that it does pack a nice punch! But where did this cocktail come from exactly? Well, from what I can gather - your guess is as good as any. Is your name Alexander? Perhaps YOU invented it! Alright - that might be a stretch, but with conflicting reports of it even being an offshoot of the original Alexander which was made with Gin, and everyone from Rector's in New York claiming they invented it for a white-themed party for Pheobe Snow (CLEVER!), a fictional character from an ad campaign for the railroads, to Princess Mary's wedding to Viscount Lascelles in London in 1922 claiming that it was created for the occasion, to opera critic Alexander Dragon and even Russian Tzar Alexander II claiming that this cocktail was named for them, no one really knows where it came from. But most will agree that it is delicious!<br />
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So, that may have been a tad more lengthy than I'd originally planned, but now it's time to get down to the nitty-gritty of the enraging episode that was last week's <i>Mad Men</i> episode... I want to focus mainly on Don and the interesting and incredibly complex relationship with Diana, the waitress that he met at the diner the week prior. There is something so poignant and sad about the connection that they share. This is a side of Don that we haven't seen in some time. He is vulnerable with her and while he's going through a major shift at the moment, he's completely open - something that seems to surprise even him! He seeks her out as if he sees something profound in himself when he's with her. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://blogs.amctv.com/mad-men/photo-galleries/mad-men-season-7-episode-photos/#/82" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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It seems to me that Don feels a sense of purpose with Diana. He's been the broken one for so long that the idea of being someone else's savior appeals to him on a subconscious level. Diana isn't young or stylish or exciting, but she draws Don in like no one we've seen do in a really long time. While she reminded Don of Rachel on a physical level when he first saw her, the more we see of her, the more he's opening himself up to her like he did with Rachel. When Diana tells Don about the death of her child, he comforts her...as if he's trying to provide the support to her that he regrets not giving to Rachel. That may seem like a bit of a stretch, but who would have thought that Don would be interacting with someone like Diana in the way that he is so quickly? We've seen Don with many women - each one of them provided him with something specific that he'd been looking for, but he seems to be doing most of the giving this time around. These two have established a level of intimacy so quickly which makes me wonder what other dark secrets are still lying below Diana's surface. To what end will she feel like she needs to punish herself? Will she be Don's ultimate downfall? With only a few episodes left, it's not altogether outside the realm of possibilities...<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://nypost.com/2015/04/13/actress-who-plays-new-mad-men-character-reveals-shes-a-killer/" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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PS - I'm pretty sure my mother still has the exact towel above!<br />
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Moving on...Megan. Ugh, fucking Megan! I thought we were finally rid of her. I've made no secret about how much I hate her, but now I'm realizing that it's not just her. Her ENTIRE family is terrible. No one cares about anyone but themselves while claiming that they are selfless and simply care TOO much for others. And I call bullshit! After Megan's tearful statement that Don doesn't owe her anything, she starts the episode by calling Don to tell him that she's already run out of money and that he needs to send her more. She then comes back to New York (her mother and sister also come in from Montreal to 'help') to finalize her divorce and collect her things. Don just wants the whole ordeal to be over and agrees that he will not be at home when she comes with the movers. Megan has a business lunch (with sleazy Harry) and leaves her mother to deal with the furniture. While she specified what was taking, her mother had other ideas. Marie has vilified Don from the beginning and while it might seem that she's just looking out for Megan, she's really just out for blood and tells the movers to take EVERYTHING, telling Megan "I took what you deserved"! Marie runs out of money for the movers (are we sensing a pattern with the Calvet women?) and calls Roger, demanding that he come over with the rest. When Megan comes home to an empty apartment and sees the two of them getting dressed after having slept together, she does nothing to try to rectify her mother cleaning out the apartment. In my opinion, her failure to act after the fact is just as bad as having committed the act herself.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://blogs.amctv.com/mad-men/photo-galleries/mad-men-season-7-episode-photos/#/86" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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Later Megan meets Don to finalize the divorce and acts more like a child than we've seen in a while. "I wasn't going to say a word. I wasn't going to give you the satisfaction of knowing that you ruined my life...Why am I being punished for being young? I gave up everything for you, because I believed you and you're nothing but a liar. An aging, sloppy, selfish, liar." Seriously? This is a spoiled brat, a girl who just happened to be attractive - very attractive - and because of that many things have come very easy for her. Could Peggy pull off behaviour like this? No, because, while an attractive girl, she doesn't look like a model or a movie star. But Megan's attributes have led her to believe that she can pull this shit - that somehow it's perfectly acceptable.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://blogs.amctv.com/mad-men/photo-galleries/mad-men-season-7-episode-photos/#/88" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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To prove my point, Don tells her, "You're right. I want you to have the life you deserve." And writes her a check for one million dollars. ONE MILLION DOLLARS! Adjusting for inflation, that would be almost $6.3 million today. Interesting that this 'strong, independent' woman who hasn't worked in a VERY long time and gets money sent to her from her husband can be so self righteous and tell Don "I don't want anything of yours." when he offers her a cigarette, but then puts the million dollar check in her pocket and high-tails it out of there! She's got some really strong convictions.<br />
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Something that has bothered me all week, something I need some help with is...exactly what was it that Megan 'gave up' to be with Don? She was a secretary who wanted to be an actress. His bank account and generosity made that possible. Something she tackily brought that up earlier when she told Don, "Oh please...you were a millionaire when I met you." We've never seen her take anyone into account but herself the entire time she's been on the show, so for Don to tell Roger that she isn't anything like Jane (the young secretary that Roger married and later divorced), well, that's blatantly untrue. She may not be quite as bad as Jane, but they are both cut from the same cloth. <br />
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Perhaps that's why Don is reacting so intensely to Diana. Because she is so different from Megan (and Betty). This is finally an adult woman who is getting by on her own. While she's not as glamorous, that's probably one of Diana's most attractive qualities. I'm not implying that Don is a saint, but ultimately there is a limit to what someone deserves simply for being married for a handful of years. I could go on about this, but look at the time - End Rant!<br />
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<i>So excited and a little nervous for tonight's episode!</i><br />
<i>XOXO!!</i>Melinda Djemanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853970999477760060noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1770901992361094524.post-77923990140465361442015-04-12T21:52:00.002-07:002015-04-12T21:52:42.782-07:00Mad Men Cocktail Hour - The MartiniGood Evening Lovelies!<br />
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Since my post for <i>Mad Men</i>'s mid-season finale was incredibly late, I wanted to make sure that I took care of the one for the first episode back before the second one airs. Admittedly, I'm cutting it close, but I did it! Kudos, Melinda.<br />
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For my cocktail accompaniment to the premiere episode of the second half of this fine last season of <i>Mad Men</i>, I thought I would go with an undisputed classic. The Martini. I should mention that prior to that night, I had - GASP - never had a Martini. 'How is that possible?' you might be asking yourself. Well, I don't really have an answer for you. Since I started the Mad Men Cocktail Hour posts as a way to educate myself in the way of cocktails (something most wine aficionados probably aren't well versed in), I think the fact that it's JUST booze intimidated me a bit. And really, I wasn't wrong in being a little wary of this one. It might be vintage blasphemy, but while I am no longer scared of it, I am also not the Martini's biggest fan.<br />
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Since I aim to be not only fabulous and entertaining, but also educational, we shall commence with the history of the Martini. While this isn't on the top of the list of drinks I'm apt to order the next time I go out, there are certainly mainly people who will. And who have for a very long time. There is no official, agreed-upon, origin story for this cocktail, but there are a few prevailing theories.<br />
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In the mid-1800's, a gold miner struck big and went into the town of Martinez, California to celebrate. He went into a saloon and ordered Champagne, which they did not have, so the bartender concocted a drink from ingredients he had on hand - gin, vermouth, bitters, maraschino liqueur, and a slice of lemon. And thus, the Martinez Special was born. The miner later ordered it in San Francisco (where he had to explain how to make it) and it quickly gained popularity. So much so, that it was published in The Bartender's Manual in 1880. Other theories like the San Francisco and miner angles, but suggest that the drink was invented by a bartender for a miner who was on his way to the town of Martinez. Still others believe it was invented in New York's Knickerbocker Hotel and then there are those that won't cite where it was invented, just that it was named after one of its main ingredients - Martini & Rossi Vermouth. However it actually came to be, its popularity as one of the most classic cocktails is enduring.<br />
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So, Martini in hand, I settled down to watch as my beloved <i>Mad Men</i> came back for its final run - the aptly dubbed, "End of an Era." So much happened in this episode and the way in which the episode opens is such a throw back to the Don from the first season that, while it was a little hard to watch Don walk a girl in a chinchilla coat on how to seduce him and then tell her "You're not supposed to talk", I thought it was perfect!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://blogs.amctv.com/mad-men/photo-galleries/mad-men-season-7-episode-photos/#/70" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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Even though it is revealed that this is for an ad, from the get-go, we know that Don has reverted back to his original form. Ladies' Man. I do miss the old Don, but over the course of the last seven seasons, he has grown a lot. Which leads me to believe that we will see a good deal of introspection from him as well. This has always been a man who has been haunted by his past and I can only hope the final episodes give Don a little solace.<br />
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One of the greatest aspects of finding these characters in 1970 are the mustaches. Specifically Roger's. I found a great article, an <a href="http://uproxx.com/tv/2015/04/we-really-need-to-talk-about-roger-sterlings-new-mustache-on-mad-men/" target="_blank">ode if you will, to Roger's mustache</a>! I have nothing further...just wanted to take a moment to acknowledge it!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJWGMKd0rA9_SmC7wdqQb_SL-bbRxJvx0KWOeQUevOZzSACU0bkydFE6N50Rid4ciyHlpa7ddT-CJiz4IZAgRpEVFVdgeZqZk3dRXWAj8oU2itqPvSzriMQCcYiWnjQD05eBFOTw7m9YI/s1600/roger+sterling+mustache.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJWGMKd0rA9_SmC7wdqQb_SL-bbRxJvx0KWOeQUevOZzSACU0bkydFE6N50Rid4ciyHlpa7ddT-CJiz4IZAgRpEVFVdgeZqZk3dRXWAj8oU2itqPvSzriMQCcYiWnjQD05eBFOTw7m9YI/s1600/roger+sterling+mustache.jpeg" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://uproxx.com/tv/2015/04/we-really-need-to-talk-about-roger-sterlings-new-mustache-on-mad-men/" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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While the fashion is definitely moving forward, Don is confronted by (and confronting) the women of his past. While out with Roger and a few ladies, he is sharing a story about his mother and asks their waitress if he knows her. She reminds Don of Rachel Katz (Menken). She was by far, my favorite of Don's conquests - and I've always suspected she was his favorite as well. There was something special about her, she got to him and got him on a level that I don't think any other woman has. After Don dreams about her, he tries to set up a meeting - only to be told that she had died the week before. This news hits Don hard, and I won't lie...I was devastated as well. I couldn't help but see this as a real revelation for Don as well as a turning point for the trajectory of this final season. Though if we can never see Rachel again, I'm glad she got to go out in a chinchilla coat.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.youknowyoulovefashion.com/madmen/2015/4/8/mad-men-severance.html" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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I could talk about Peggy and her Carpe Diem date or about how Ken gave the firm his eye and got fired and could end up besting everyone, but I really want to talk about what Joan and Peggy faced when trying to pitch Topaz Pantyhose as a department store product to a few INCREDIBLY chauvinistic McCann execs. What first struck me was that it was somehow okay for these men to say things like, "They're afraid Leggs are going to spread all over the world? That wouldn't bother me at all." or asking Joan "What's so special about your panties?" and going on to say "Why aren't you in the brassiere business? You should really be in the bra business." <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://blogs.amctv.com/mad-men/photo-galleries/mad-men-season-7-episode-photos/#/74" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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These two ladies stayed professional and kept trying to bring the conversation back to the business at hand, and I didn't think it was possible for me to be more upset about how the meeting went until Joan and Peggy got into the elevator. Joan stated that she wanted to burn the place to the ground and I don't blame her. But then Peggy actually made me more upset than the men in the meeting had! She brushed it off by insinuating that Joan should be used to treatment like that by now and that she was essentially asking for it with the way that she dressed. WHAT?? How can women turn on each other like that? And for the record...how exactly does Joan dress inappropriately? Sure she's well endowed, but she can't help that and always dresses quite conservatively. In that particular meeting, the only way she could have been dressed more conservatively is if she were wearing a turtleneck! But Joan's response was FANTASTIC! "So what you're saying is, I don't dress the way you do because I don't look like you. And that's very, very true." Ouch! But Peggy deserved it - honestly, I wouldn't have blamed Joan if she'd decked her.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.salon.com/2015/04/06/mad_men_recap_don_draper_says_goodbye_to_his_greatest_love/" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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We ended the episode with many of our characters in flux, so this second episode should be VERY interesting. Hope you are enjoying this 'End of an Era' as much as I am! This last episode opened and closed with Peggy Lee's "Is That All There Is?" and since I thought it was so fitting, that I wanted to share it here.<br />
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<i>Happy Viewing, Kittens!</i><br />
<i>XOXO!!</i>Melinda Djemanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853970999477760060noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1770901992361094524.post-50749122388017196922015-04-10T21:43:00.000-07:002015-04-11T08:56:00.116-07:00Mad Men Cocktail Hour - The MoonwalkGood Evening Kittens!<br />
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During The Vintage Project's hiatus, many things fell by the wayside. I realized that one of those things was the Cocktail Hour post for the mid-season finale of <i>Mad Men</i>. Since I'm getting the chance to make certain things right, I'm going to make this one right - right now. There was no way I was just going to gloss over this one - ESPECIALLY since both the cocktail and the episode were ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC!!<br />
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If you somehow missed the first episode of the second part of the last season on Sunday (how's that for a mouthful?), and want a little refresher of how things were left, then this is your lucky day! You're welcome.<br />
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Since I've been watching <i>Mad Men</i> for a good while now, I've got their number. I know how they operate. And I had a rather short list of things that I knew were potentially going to be written into the last season. The first season started in 1960 and this last one started in 1969. There were some really significant things that happened in the second half of 1969: the Moon Landing in July, the Manson Murders in August, and Woodstock in September. Since this show has covered so many historic events, I had REALLY hoped that all three would be incorporated. With all the people who were making the case that there was a <a href="http://uproxx.com/tv/2014/04/15-megan-drapersharon-tate-connections-that-prove-mad-men-is-just-straight-up-trolling-us-now/" target="_blank">Megan Draper/Sharon Tate connection</a>, I was hoping that these theories would pan out and incorporate the Manson family, but my real money was on the Moon Landing being featured on this last episode. So when I went in search of our cocktail for the evening, I came across a drink I had never heard of before. The Moonwalk. This was the <a href="http://giuseppegallo.co.uk/?p=1230" target="_blank">first drink the Apollo astronauts had once they returned from walking on the moon</a>. I chose this on the off-chance that the landing would take place in this episode (instead of that taking place in the second half of the season)...and I celebrated when this actually came to fruition. It was Perfection- both the timing and the libation! This cocktail is simple (1 oz grapefruit juice, 1 oz Grand Marnier, 3 drops rose water, and bubbly) and is definitely going to be incorporated into my cocktail repertoire going forward!<br />
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So now that we have our cocktail situation situated, let's move on to the episode. I know that I rave about <i>Mad Men </i>on a regular basis, but this last episode of this split season was seriously amazing. While we got the regular office politics and drama, what really set this episode apart were the things that brought us, as well as the characters, together. Within the <i>Mad Men</i> universe, the death of Bertrand Cooper was arguably more significant than the Moon Landing. The wise yet largely peripheral character served a patriarchal role in Sterling Cooper and had some really insightful musings over the years. In this last episode, you see that while he seems pretty hands-off most of the time, he understands that the company is more important than the pettiness and politics that seem to be the focus for many. In his last conversation with Roger he tells him, "I'm a leader. And a leader is loyal to his team." and even though it doesn't make Bert happy, he realizes that there isn't anything that he can do to diffuse the situation between Cutler and Don. "No one has ever come back from leave, not even Napoleon." It is this conversation that makes Roger realize he needs to step in to save Don - and in the process elevate himself from 'boss' to 'leader'. Roger really is a remarkable character! But this is about Bert, so let's continue to...NOT talk about him?<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.bowtieaficionado.com/2014/05/27/bow-tie-guy-bids-adieu/#.VSiTdfnF-So" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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The first character that we saw go in this episode was Megan. Did that hurt? Not at all. I have been waiting for this for some time now. And it seems, so has Don. Megan served a purpose in the beginning but in the last season or so, that purpose was gone. Did we need to be reminded the differences between Megan and Betty? No. Did we need to see that Don was desperately trying to be modern and relevant? Not in the least. Did anyone want to hear her whining? Negatory. So buh-bye Megan! Not sorry to see you go at all. But it was kind of sad to watch a marriage end over the phone without either one actually saying it was over...</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://blogs.amctv.com/mad-men/photo-galleries/mad-men-season-7-episode-photos/#/63" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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With the breakup of Don and Megan's marriage we saw two people parting ways, but shortly thereafter we saw millions of people being brought together. With the Moon Landing. My generation has never experienced being part of something like the collective mourning experienced during the JFK or MLK assassinations (both of which were written into prior seasons) or the collective awe and inspiration of the Moon Landing. We, superficially, have been brought together and remember where we were when Princess Diana died or the OJ verdict was read. We live in a time of instant gratification, where literally EVERYTHING - important and impactful or not - is at our fingertips. Watching families (whether they be blood or by some other construct) come together in front of a television set and watch the marvels of both science and man's achievement was pretty magical. Watching the first man walk on the moon brought the country as well as the world together. And the breaking apart of two people was quickly forgotten. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://blogs.amctv.com/mad-men/photo-galleries/mad-men-season-7-episode-photos/#/65" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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The juxtaposition of Roger coming together with his estranged family to watch and the Sterling Cooper 'family' on a business trip sitting together while Bert was watching with his housekeeper made me both sad and instantly I knew we were going to lose him. It was just a gut feeling. The fact that he didn't have any type of family to come together with for such a monumental event was heartbreaking.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://blogs.amctv.com/mad-men/photo-galleries/mad-men-season-7-episode-photos/#/66" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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After everyone was notified of Bert's passing, the partners met in the office and while Cutler had issues with him, his first words to Roger were, "My condolences, he was a giant." And, truly, he was! The somber nature of the scene is lightened a bit by Roger's trademark humor. "Every time an old man talks about Napoleon, you know he's going to die."</div>
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If Bert's last conversation with Roger hadn't truly hit home at the time, it certainly did after his death. Bert was the glue that held Sterling Cooper together and Roger knew it. He was old school and represented the spirit of the company as it once was. When it was good. When politics and mergers and self-interest hadn't been the driving force. To me, it felt like definitive lines had been drawn in Bert's passing - Us vs Them. The original firm and the outsiders that had come in with their own agenda. With Bert gone, I think Roger felt like it was now his responsibility to make things right and look out for both his people and his company. "Cutler's not going to stop until the firm is just Harry and the computer. That means everybody goes. And you know it." Roger was right - and his next move saved the company. Selling 51% to McCann and staying on as President meant the company, and Don, were safe from smarmy Cutler and that all the partners were going to see a very nice bump to their bank accounts. Win-win! That move solidified Roger as the new patriarch of SC&P.</div>
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As a fitting tribute, Don saw Bertrand Cooper one last time in a musical number - a heartwarming, and tear jerking song and dance that may lend some credence to the not-so-heartwarming speculations that Don has a brain tumor... But it was still amazing for a character like Bert to get this kind of a sendoff!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://blogs.amctv.com/mad-men/photo-galleries/mad-men-season-7-episode-photos/#/69" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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I know this was VERY late Kittens, but I've got one more episode to catch up on before Sunday's new episode. So I'm going to have to get cracking!</div>
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<i>Until next time, Kittens, may I recommend having a Moonwalk while you wait?</i></div>
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<i>XOXO!!</i></div>
Melinda Djemanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853970999477760060noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1770901992361094524.post-61163960251978885762015-04-03T16:34:00.000-07:002015-04-03T16:34:14.493-07:00April Book Club Selection(s) - Second Time's the Charm!Hello there Kittens!<br />
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So...Book Club. BOOK CLUB!! Am I excited about bringing this institution back? More than I can express!<br />
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When I began to think about the first selection for The (newly reinstated) Vintage Project Book Club, I went through the list on the <a href="http://thevintageproject.blogspot.com/p/the-vintage-project-book-club.html" target="_blank">Book Club</a> page. I REALLY wanted to come to you with something great! A title that would draw you back in and maybe even persuade you to join me this month! But I couldn't stop thinking about the loose ends I'd left - the fact that the last two selections I made...well, I never finished them. <br />
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I am ashamed, but I am going to make it right! (Doubly right!)<br />
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ALSO...the reason for choosing both titles was prompted by their relevance to <i>Mad Men. </i>Both were referenced in the first and second seasons respectively and in case it's been so long that you've forgotten, I DO love me a good tie-in! Since the second half of the last season starts on Sunday, the idea of having TWO <i>Mad Men</i>-inspired Book Club selections couldn't be more perfect! <br />
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<i>Lady Chatterley's Lover</i> was originally the <a href="http://thevintageproject.blogspot.com/2014/03/march-book-club-selection.html" target="_blank">March 2014 selection</a> and with <i>Fifty Shades</i> still very much on our collective radar, going back and finishing this early piece of 'erotica' seems like a pretty good idea. (Wink wink!) While I'm sure the scandalous nature of this work that had it BANNED and resulted in a British obscenity trial in the '60's for using then unprintable words isn't nearly as shocking today, who can resist a book with such a sordid past? Certainly not me!<br />
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<i>Meditations in an Emergency</i> was originally the <a href="http://thevintageproject.blogspot.com/2014/04/april-book-club-selection.html" target="_blank">April 2014 selection</a>. This collection of poetry is said to perfectly capture New York in the '60's and since I hold a special place in my heart for MidCentury poetry, I have wanted to read this collection for a VERY long time! Another great tie-in? April is National Poetry Month!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Lady-Chatterleys-Lover-Bantam-Classics/dp/0553212621/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1427865677&sr=1-1&keywords=lady+chatterley%27s+lover" target="_blank">purchase your copy of Lady Chatterley's Lover here</a><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Meditations-Emergency-Frank-OHara/dp/0802134521/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1428037763&sr=1-1&keywords=meditations+in+an+emergency" target="_blank">purchase your copy of Meditations in an Emergency here</a></td></tr>
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While <i>Meditations in an Emergency</i> doesn't have the salacious draw of having been on the naughty list, perhaps hearing Don Draper read from this will make you consider picking this one up? Oh, Don, my favorite anti-hero - how sad and lovely you are, made sadder and lovelier only by Frank O'Hara's poetry...<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/PNXGu_9CKoU/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/PNXGu_9CKoU?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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Since I didn't finish either one of these works the first time around - okay, if I'm being perfectly honest, I never even started the second (WHO decided giving me a book club was a good idea? ;) ), I'm essentially starting from scratch and I'd LOVE for you to join me - won't you consider it?!? For one or the other or, if you're feeling ambitious, perhaps both?!? <br />
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<i>Happy Reading, Kittens!</i><br />
<i>XOXO!!</i>Melinda Djemanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853970999477760060noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1770901992361094524.post-48507227574583142172015-04-01T17:20:00.001-07:002015-04-01T17:20:32.107-07:00Returning HomeHello Kittens! <br />
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Did you miss me? I sure missed you.<br />
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The Vintage Project has been on a little bit of a (okay, A LOT of a) hiatus the past few months and while I definitely kept myself busy, there seemed to be something missing. There was a little less sparkle, a little less glam, and a lot less focus on what I set out to do two years ago. Le sigh...<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://rose-tinted-vintage.tumblr.com/" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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It didn't take too much soul searching for me to realize that my fabulous corner of the Blogosphere, this amazing creative outlet, and you kittens have become more important to me than I had originally realized (and I'd like to think that you've gotten a little something from it as well). It's become home. I used to be a rather prolific writer and have the volumes of poetry to prove it - for the record, much/some of it was really quite good! There has always been something about writing that just made me feel whole, that made me feel proud - like I'd created something out of nothing. In the past few months, the NOT writing has left me with a tangible loss that I'd rather not experience. Dramatic? Perhaps. True? Definitely. <br />
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So... effective immediately, I am back! I have returned home!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.marieclaire.co.uk/fashion/ideas/34772/ultimate-style-icons-jacqueline-kennedy-onassis.html" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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I will not abandon you again. You have my word. <br />
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We have so many things to discover and talk about, wouldn't you agree? So let's apply a fresh coat of lipstick, throw on a pair of heels and a big pair of sunglasses, and get started!<br />
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<i>So many great things are in store. Until next time, Kittens!</i><br />
<i>XOXO!!</i>Melinda Djemanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853970999477760060noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1770901992361094524.post-22054285042419613912014-08-16T11:39:00.002-07:002014-08-19T14:25:22.211-07:00Kind of Obsessed with The Bar Method?Hello there Kittens!<br />
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I know I've apologized a few times for not being around more. But really, that's just a nice way of letting myself off the hook a bit for neglecting you. Who decided giving me a blog was a good idea? Oh, that's right, that was me...<br />
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In my lonely little solitary <a href="http://thevintageproject.blogspot.com/2014/06/health-wheels-and-new-exercise-regimen.html" target="_blank">June post</a> I mentioned that I was focusing on establishing an exercise routine. For me, working out on a regular basis has never really stuck. Now I'm realizing that I simply hadn't found the right activity - that is until I found <a href="http://www.everydayhealth.com/fitness/should-you-try-the-bar-method.aspx" target="_blank">The Bar Method</a>! <br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyiBa92cFAYUS1cRi0XfIsHCH8v4xUoRFva8RJQsbtJcG33KBVMSGyl_9-Y4o5nE7DZEtmLBNUjb8PDTiZJEqJM14ha1g8NShEG_Tu4AfQyDspRW9Cwh0s6FwNq5OkoDhaeULKamE9R4g/s1600/Marilyn-Monroe-Ballet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyiBa92cFAYUS1cRi0XfIsHCH8v4xUoRFva8RJQsbtJcG33KBVMSGyl_9-Y4o5nE7DZEtmLBNUjb8PDTiZJEqJM14ha1g8NShEG_Tu4AfQyDspRW9Cwh0s6FwNq5OkoDhaeULKamE9R4g/s1600/Marilyn-Monroe-Ballet.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://romantiqueandrebel.com/classic-hollywood-stars-who-danced-ballet/" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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Every woman was once a little girl who dreamt (at least once or twice) of being a ballerina. There is just something romantic and ultra feminine about gracefully gliding across a stage in a tulle skirt. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhChIHmSa_NGA8RDu5yVrobE7Ctkf-xSlezIG2aBYLKLJd7O5eQJiktZDzOSD8qVSP7CbELoo8zmCCIft7iZGOXjZD3p9iQSJ0ZfC3f14-mLChkRWXnx0pUofm8UXcHgJFGzFhFe_MJ5o/s1600/ballet-600x400-300x200.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhChIHmSa_NGA8RDu5yVrobE7Ctkf-xSlezIG2aBYLKLJd7O5eQJiktZDzOSD8qVSP7CbELoo8zmCCIft7iZGOXjZD3p9iQSJ0ZfC3f14-mLChkRWXnx0pUofm8UXcHgJFGzFhFe_MJ5o/s1600/ballet-600x400-300x200.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.muscogeemoms.com/2010/04/07/summer-ballet-classes/" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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It's easy to understand why little girls would want to grow up to be like these statuesque, graceful dancers. Even to the women who have seen the horrific effects of pointe shoes (if you haven't, DO NOT Google it unless you have a really strong stomach), the cut-throat politics and drama behind the scenes à la <i><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_Swan_(film)" target="_blank">Black Swan</a></i>, and the eating disorders that are common among ballerinas, there is still something alluring and beautiful about ballet.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKrzVLBPC0xTuC8TAZnH8hx6_HeOxvyUitYjMMI0dU_GrN_fUyiF3baRFMcMolL8Zoz4z-EVOhNMg_TQ6QY5Q9-oj7aTG7qsmI58Qr8Dsup4lyi6xy9P-49aPvk0jAvnHK8MP1HjhE1Tk/s1600/ballet+-+life+magazine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKrzVLBPC0xTuC8TAZnH8hx6_HeOxvyUitYjMMI0dU_GrN_fUyiF3baRFMcMolL8Zoz4z-EVOhNMg_TQ6QY5Q9-oj7aTG7qsmI58Qr8Dsup4lyi6xy9P-49aPvk0jAvnHK8MP1HjhE1Tk/s1600/ballet+-+life+magazine.jpg" height="458" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://stayfancyfree.blogspot.com/2011/05/paris-opera-ballet-school-1963.html" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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That was one of the main reasons why my friend Bridget originally wanted to try The Bar Method - she still harbors her fair share of ballerina fantasies. Personally, I'm not into the pointe shoes and bloody toes, but I do very much admire the lines of the long, lean bodies, the flexibility, the great posture, and the graceful way in which trained dancers carry themselves. So off to The Bar Method we went!<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG7DNn9bLX7Kmnn3ZEMQUoVIv2n2JslNQIVZX5cz3WWbMjfn7m47a76qIq-YqE3RVTyUWEuzDNNiDYfbnBgPIzGZnff-nnsgNRuHL9T14_dqKUinE3CjUrieDNbVqrNZxeDnKGt_SOYY0/s1600/audrey+ballet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG7DNn9bLX7Kmnn3ZEMQUoVIv2n2JslNQIVZX5cz3WWbMjfn7m47a76qIq-YqE3RVTyUWEuzDNNiDYfbnBgPIzGZnff-nnsgNRuHL9T14_dqKUinE3CjUrieDNbVqrNZxeDnKGt_SOYY0/s1600/audrey+ballet.jpg" height="420" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://rareaudreyhepburn.com/post/75504096681/audrey-hepburn-with-ballet-coach-lucien-legrand" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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<a href="http://marinadelrey.barmethod.com/our-studio/about-us/" target="_blank">The Bar Method Marina Del Rey</a> offers an absolutely fantastic <a href="https://clients.mindbodyonline.com/ASP/home.asp?studioid=7465" target="_blank">introductory special</a> that we purchased. This offer is an unlimited 30-day membership which I used to take 14 classes, though now I really wish I would have gone more often. <br />
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Initially I was very intimidated to try this combination of Ballet, conditioning, Yoga, Pilates, and light weights. I had never taken a group class before and, honestly, I had allowed myself to become very out of shape, so trying something like this was not high on my list of Things That Sound Like a Good Time. In my head, I saw this happening:<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgnpYdP76j1tqRnTILayiw0gpfxNNtCq0kb0Z4iXSvTJdR9yZnBoj9HdQrWWPMUW-WiR4MEfPE7oBLs1LtZ4f2c9WxB_kYbyATUtxjIJBaWMVsm1_xu0AThssviHfr04eSsLxj9tFopz4/s1600/lucy+ballet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgnpYdP76j1tqRnTILayiw0gpfxNNtCq0kb0Z4iXSvTJdR9yZnBoj9HdQrWWPMUW-WiR4MEfPE7oBLs1LtZ4f2c9WxB_kYbyATUtxjIJBaWMVsm1_xu0AThssviHfr04eSsLxj9tFopz4/s1600/lucy+ballet.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.playle.com/listing.php?i=KDL58133" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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Or perhaps this:<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtZN17tjvz6talR5hc7u8uuiXp82pT7pBH5M7zU-tknaxEgQj5hOsb3-J-ZL3jLd9po1X9S24O4DpDXKJsRsEkayq27_WKIfqPZ_r99H-7JVIBtfO_H55GFqCeMiThG8zUYz8q97SK4p0/s1600/lucy+ballet2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtZN17tjvz6talR5hc7u8uuiXp82pT7pBH5M7zU-tknaxEgQj5hOsb3-J-ZL3jLd9po1X9S24O4DpDXKJsRsEkayq27_WKIfqPZ_r99H-7JVIBtfO_H55GFqCeMiThG8zUYz8q97SK4p0/s1600/lucy+ballet2.jpg" height="632" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://greginhollywood.com/i-love-lucy-friday-in-celebration-of-the-shows-60th-anniversary-here-is-the-shows-rarely-seen-movie-54517" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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But that didn't happened. <br />
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Though, if I'm being honest (and I feel like I can be honest with you), something like this DID happen. While it doesn't seem like it would be, lifting your leg up and off the bar without the using your hands is incredibly difficult - at least it is within the first month!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCjtrQJA8okc09gdg850tItUrhD6aiPIrcyzNlgM-d7Ps-10lPd5M9pX0vDDqcKP8hl3Aywr_y8vbFXfAjXez7tCQXC6K1GR6MjifoDB6mi2uCafAUVP9KmEdRu6nI0h3mNoPnC96uHIY/s1600/lucy+ballet3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCjtrQJA8okc09gdg850tItUrhD6aiPIrcyzNlgM-d7Ps-10lPd5M9pX0vDDqcKP8hl3Aywr_y8vbFXfAjXez7tCQXC6K1GR6MjifoDB6mi2uCafAUVP9KmEdRu6nI0h3mNoPnC96uHIY/s1600/lucy+ballet3.jpg" height="640" width="510" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WKYPH08-dz8" target="_blank">watch the clip - it's hilarious!!</a></td></tr>
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Was The Bar Method difficult? Yes. Did I find myself unable to do things that seemed like they should be easy, things that pregnant long-time practitioners could do with ease? Yes. Did I have a good time? Yes. No. Sometimes? Was it worth every minute? Absolutely!<br />
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The Bar Method is amazing and I've become a total convert, singing its praises to anyone that will listen! I just finished my first month and in just that short period of time, I'm seeing changes in my body that are incredible. I'm seeing definition in my chest and shoulders, noticing muscles in my arms where there were none before, my waist is shrinking, my legs are becoming leaner, and I'm starting to develop 'bar butt!' Oh - and I've lost a pant size!!<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Vy8HioZFSMED0vsifyKTPqWA-_0Fq5qgnxnQ3MvBPu89_udEQ1YwLZ987dRU2NP4W7wDIg8AogtJSrzgNuX6M7ZPqYKeX5vQwQyxz-MxqsK9afN9KbvKbIakXQQpdL7kf9akk0iGFXk/s1600/bar+method.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Vy8HioZFSMED0vsifyKTPqWA-_0Fq5qgnxnQ3MvBPu89_udEQ1YwLZ987dRU2NP4W7wDIg8AogtJSrzgNuX6M7ZPqYKeX5vQwQyxz-MxqsK9afN9KbvKbIakXQQpdL7kf9akk0iGFXk/s1600/bar+method.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.ellejacksonphotography.com/2012/12/bar-method-nashville-business-photography/" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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I still have a ways to go until I reach my goal of being in fantastic shape and while my smokin' introductory deal is done, I am definitely sticking with The Bar Method (despite the hefty price-tag)! In particular, I'm sticking with the <a href="http://marinadelrey.barmethod.com/our-studio/about-us/" target="_blank">Marina Del Rey location</a>. I absolutely LOVE everything about this studio! The instructors are amazing - I am convinced they only hire people who are blessed with photographic memory as each instructor has the uncanny ability to remember the name of EVERYONE in class, even if it's your first class and you've only given them your name once! They are so supportive and encouraging and you truly feel like they care about your progress, your form, and they remind you that each day is different and to honor your body and what it can do that day. (I much prefer that to someone yelling at me like a drill sergeant at boot camp.) The other practitioners at this location are also fantastic. Everyone is so nice and there is this feeling of community. There is no judgement or competition and people are so open about their journeys and experiences. Many of these women have been regulars for years, so they have a lot of experience to share! When someone who has been practicing The Bar Method for years tells you that this is the best studio they've ever been to, you know you're in the right place!<br />
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If you live in Southern California and find yourself near Marina Del Rey, I HIGHLY suggest checking this place out!! You have nothing to lose and a 'bar butt' to gain! And perhaps you'll become obsessed as well!<br />
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<i>Until next time Kittens - tuck-tuck-tuck and embrace the shake!!</i><br />
<i>XOXO!!</i>Melinda Djemanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853970999477760060noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1770901992361094524.post-10428803885515925802014-07-20T09:57:00.000-07:002014-07-20T19:22:51.440-07:00Brunch 05.24.2014 - Pre-Revamp Cuban Goodness<h2>
Habana, Costa Mesa</h2>
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Happy Sunday Kittens! It's been a while and I've missed you. Honest!<br />
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Over the last seven weeks, I've been focusing on revamping my eating and exercise habits. As is probably pretty obvious from the radio silence, it's been rather time-consuming. And working out six days a week and keeping up with a social life is really tiring to boot!<br />
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Just before I started this overhaul, I had a fantastic Brunch with my dear friend Stephanie. The two of us have been Brunching for a while now and <a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/habana-costa-mesa" target="_blank">Habana</a> in Costa Mesa is one of our favorite spots! (It's also great for dinner!)</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgURj3TMQUiy6aEPVpBGsEtPQ5fu_1Uome9Am51NbF3W4CKDtYroDdfiAl-2Idy3-lIjsBi8G5QeY_5TN6Tf7BHzrMJ0f8473Ai2rjDwXqKtwDkvTyVIIYwgBlaTTZ-3QZinXiSaYG4Msg/s1600/habana.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgURj3TMQUiy6aEPVpBGsEtPQ5fu_1Uome9Am51NbF3W4CKDtYroDdfiAl-2Idy3-lIjsBi8G5QeY_5TN6Tf7BHzrMJ0f8473Ai2rjDwXqKtwDkvTyVIIYwgBlaTTZ-3QZinXiSaYG4Msg/s1600/habana.JPG" height="612" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.memoeats.com/2012/06/habana-costa-mesa.html" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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Habana is a fabulous <a href="http://thelab.com/shops/habana" target="_blank">Cuban restaurant at the LAB</a> in Costa Mesa. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTnaBkT2zf1aJpCdTOxsZPUyZTIT0AvoHzuG0-VA8rWT_xuqUEeobQa7hT5cmE2wLWixcLcDqFnfu2xB7r1-jZ3dcDu0LXR9Zi30ySjgO529bFRVp5eTEKhKCFmmQUKuzosyur5wYpDPU/s1600/DSC_2625.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTnaBkT2zf1aJpCdTOxsZPUyZTIT0AvoHzuG0-VA8rWT_xuqUEeobQa7hT5cmE2wLWixcLcDqFnfu2xB7r1-jZ3dcDu0LXR9Zi30ySjgO529bFRVp5eTEKhKCFmmQUKuzosyur5wYpDPU/s1600/DSC_2625.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
While the LAB (or Anti-Mall) is quite the Hipster draw, it has a great little story and is most definitely worth a visit.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS9n25KlEMiyH5H_3LBs3o3Gpo5Fbv3Qp8MXBGX7eEzAY3y7exJX0Do9qatvXsKp_jYp1j6qr7JcAfF-73O0QAlBWYCPfbk42PtzxFywoESLLFNhxIcHDIJtarc3QMA2y_xoyka7ZOvXU/s1600/DSC_2626.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS9n25KlEMiyH5H_3LBs3o3Gpo5Fbv3Qp8MXBGX7eEzAY3y7exJX0Do9qatvXsKp_jYp1j6qr7JcAfF-73O0QAlBWYCPfbk42PtzxFywoESLLFNhxIcHDIJtarc3QMA2y_xoyka7ZOvXU/s1600/DSC_2626.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
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We really can't recommend Habana highly enough!<br />
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Deciding on a dish to order can be difficult as everything is SO tasty, so I suggest starting off with a glass of sangria while you peruse the menu. I can personally vouch for their tastiness and truly, you may want to consider going with a pitcher!<br />
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After ordering your sangria and deciding on your food, take a moment to appreciate your surroundings! I mean who doesn't love a good chandelier?<br />
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Or four? <br />
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The skylight adds something really special to this space and the lights on the chandeliers make it glow at night. You just can't beat the ambiance here!<br />
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For my meal, I ordered the Caribbean Egg Benedict which was a bit small, but amazing nonetheless! Crab and polenta in a Benedict? Heaven! Though if I'm in the mood for something sweet the next time I find myself here, I will definitely be ordering the Plantain Pancakes! I've been eyeing them for a while...</div>
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Stephanie ordered the Skillet of Polenta & Egg with Patata Brava Hash. I'm not exactly sure what Patata Brava Hash is, but I'm told it was quite tasty in addition to being an impressive sight. Stephanie LOVES their Cubano Monte Cristo, and while it's usually her go-to when we Brunch here, she decided to branch out this time. <br />
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On our way out, after a fabulous Brunch, I took a moment to appreciate the patio. <br />
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While it's a very nice patio, I do really prefer sitting inside. While it's a choice that you will need to make for yourself, I don't think you'll be disappointed with either decision.</div>
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Perhaps you'll keep Habana in mind the next time you are tasked with deciding on a Brunch spot? It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!<br />
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<i>¡Happy Brunching Gatas!</i><br />
<i>XOXO!!</i></div>
Melinda Djemanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853970999477760060noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1770901992361094524.post-21752418518941624522014-06-10T21:36:00.001-07:002014-08-19T15:07:37.151-07:00Health Wheels and a New Exercise RegimenHello Kittens! And Happy, Healthy June!<br />
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I apologize for my recent radio silence. While I've had bouts of being MIA in the past, this time I don't have work to blame. No, in this instance, my time I can honestly blame working out. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-2534615/In-need-gym-spiration-kickstart-New-Year-exercise-regime-Check-hilarious-vintage-photos-way-women-used-work-out.html" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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While my eating habits have been quite good for a while now, my activity level has been as close to zero as you can get. In the past it's been easy to attribute being so sedentary on my long hours at work, but since transitioning to a new department earlier this year, that is no longer the case. But old habits die hard and I think I was reveling in the free time a normal work schedule suddenly afforded me. Truthfully, having the time to be lazy felt AWESOME!<br />
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But all good things must come to an end. So when the Wellness Committee at work used its quarterly Wellness Week to kick off a 12-week Biggest Loser Challenge, I was more than ready! For me, starting to work out again needed a push like this one.<br />
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Unfortunately, in addition to establishing an exercise routine, I've also found myself tasked with finding balance when it comes to the attention The Vintage Project requires.<br />
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Throughout the years, there have been many interesting exercises, such as vibrating belt slimming machines...<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-2534615/In-need-gym-spiration-kickstart-New-Year-exercise-regime-Check-hilarious-vintage-photos-way-women-used-work-out.html" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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And the 'health wheel'. (Nothing says fitness like being able to work out in whatever dress strikes your fancy!)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2aGDci6B72Y7xAkeBrJ7VwGVgXgywHS3YSymF_rjWkM6DisLkKj8kSyP4XhW1SHX0kVW8U1-355Crb6TO-TNZEHOZ6Ik374T3hM0dq7hTW7NerdQ7uUhXCWAAbC4u6QoqCiT08N_zPvc/s1600/working+out3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2aGDci6B72Y7xAkeBrJ7VwGVgXgywHS3YSymF_rjWkM6DisLkKj8kSyP4XhW1SHX0kVW8U1-355Crb6TO-TNZEHOZ6Ik374T3hM0dq7hTW7NerdQ7uUhXCWAAbC4u6QoqCiT08N_zPvc/s1600/working+out3.jpg" height="640" width="526" /></a></td></tr>
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It's pretty obvious from the photos of what appear to be INCREDIBLY strenuous workouts, that vintage forms of exercise aren't really the way to go. While I believe wearing a pair of heels is very lady-like, I just don't see how working out in them (or a strand of pearls) can be that effective - call me crazy. Sadly that belief does away with most tie-ins...<br />
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Sure, some exercises have merit, why would you ruin a good pair of heels doing them?<br />
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The moral of this story is - I'm finally starting to find some balance after establishing my new-found exercise regimen. Also, don't work out in heels. So really, it's a multi-moral story!<br />
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<i>Until next time, Kittens! Do a few push-ups, drink eight glasses of water, and check back soon!</i><br />
<i>XOXO!!</i>Melinda Djemanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853970999477760060noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1770901992361094524.post-1949411822861060432014-05-26T21:43:00.002-07:002014-05-26T21:43:53.268-07:00Marilyn - The Premiere CollectionGood Evening Kittens!<br />
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<a href="http://thevintageproject.blogspot.com/2014/05/happy-marilyn-may.html" target="_blank">Marilyn May</a> is underway with the help of a very savvy purchase that I made during the holidays. <br />
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Once I spied this fantastic collection of seventeen of Marilyn Monroe's films, I knew I had to have it! If you feel the same way, I just found the collection online. Give it a Google!<br />
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This collection is made up of seventeen individual discs (one per film) which are organized into three mini books. As if what was inside wasn't enough, the packaging itself is a little treat!<br />
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Each mini-book folds open to reveal a classic photo of the lady of the hour.</div>
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I've got a whole lot of watching to do, Kittens. So, I'll visit with you a bit later.<br />
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<i>XOXO!!</i>Melinda Djemanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853970999477760060noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1770901992361094524.post-17275984206372011892014-05-25T21:45:00.001-07:002014-05-26T09:08:27.607-07:00Mad Men Cocktail Hour - The Daiquiri¡Hola My Lovelies!<br />
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Last week, I sent Bridget an email that listed a few cocktail choices for us to enjoy while watching the second to the last episode before the mid-season finale of <i>Mad Men</i>. That list included everything from simple to elaborate, from Betty-caliber to what we've coined Draper-caliber cocktails. But for all the choices, there was something appealing about a simple Daiquiri. I, myself, had never had a regular Daiquiri, only those of the frozen fruit variety, and while I find Strawberry Daiquiris quite tasty, I thought that it was high time I tried one of the original variety. <br />
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Part of the <a href="http://www.amctv.com/shows/mad-men/cocktail-guide" target="_blank">Mad Men Cocktail Guide</a>, this recipe is super simple - light rum, lime juice, and simple syrup. It's origins are equally simple. Named for a beach near Santiago, Cuba, the story goes that an American miner in a nearby iron mine, named Jennings Cox (great name, by the way) crafted this now classic cocktail. A United States Congressman, William A. Chandler, purchased the mine in 1902 and brought the cocktail to New York. A Navy medical doctor tried the drink, introduced it to the Army and Navy Club in Washington D.C. a few years later and it quickly gained popularity. Funnily enough, the political climate of the time is responsible for this drink becoming so well-known. Roosevelt's Good Neighbor Policy of 1933 opened trade routes and travel relations with Latin America, Cuba, and the Caribbean and while war-time rationing of liquor made most hard alcohol hard to come by, Rum was easily obtainable and far more affordable. We have this political deal, as well as tasty rum-based cocktails, to thank for making Latin America seem fashionable to previously sheltered Americans.<br />
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So, let's sit back with <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buena_Vista_Social_Club" target="_blank">Buena Vista Social Club</a>, raise our Daiquiris, and talk about the best <i>Mad Men</i> episode we've had this season!<br />
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Okay, so A LOT happened in this episode! And while I can't save you from not having watched it, I can most definitely catch you up on the major things that happened.<br />
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I can't talk about this episode without mentioning Bob Benson. This whole season, he's been MIA. After he outed Pete for not being able to drive in front of the GM execs, he took over the account and was based out of Detroit. This sixth episode he reappeared, spent some time with Joan and proposed. As you do, after being gone for a few months. I was SO proud of Joan for telling Bob that it wasn't women that he should be kissing and sent him on his way. His parting words were super fucking harsh! Implying that, at her age, the part of a Beard is the best she'll ever get. This is why I LOVE Joan. She values herself enough to send Bob packing!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://blogs.amctv.com/mad-men/photo-galleries/mad-men-season-7-episode-photos/#/54" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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From the opposite coast, Pete and his Realtor girlfriend and Megan come to New York at the beginning of the episode. Fast forward to the end of the episode and both the Realtor and Megan are on a flight home without their men. I see this as the end or the beginning of the end for both relationships. <br />
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Continuing the story arc of the episodes before, Peggy is still heading the team for the burger account and is technically Don's boss, but is having an incredibly difficult time with it. She's allowing Don to get into her head and is smack-dab in the middle of a professional crisis. The burger account is forcing her to confront her feelings of inadequacy with not being a wife and mother. Don suggesting that there may be another strategy for the pitch is somehow making Peggy second guess everything. Working late at the office, Peggy and Don finally rekindle the relationship that we've seen throughout the entire series and it warmed my heart. <br />
Peggy asked Don to tell her how to think about the campaign. And in the most brilliant and most heart-wrenching scene we've had this season, Don breaks down his creative process and Peggy reveals to Don how insecure she is about the fact that she hasn't established a family of her own. In the early seasons, we've seen Don mold Peggy into the professional woman that she's become and we've also seen him comfort her when she's needed it. When she tells Don that she's not sure she can give too much prospective to the family-oriented campaign since she doesn't have one, we see Don step into the role of friend and confidant. Sinatra's "I Did It My Way" starts playing on the radio and Don extends his hand to Peggy. She accepts it and they start to dance. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://blogs.amctv.com/mad-men/photo-galleries/mad-men-season-7-episode-photos/#/58" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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The best line of the episode is Don's. "I worry about a lot of things, but I don't worry about you." I LOVE this relationship and this scene nearly brought me to tears!<br />
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This episode focused on the family, but not necessarily the nuclear family. I especially loved the scene where Peggy, Don, and Pete are are Burger Chef together. Despite their ups and downs, these three have become a family of sorts over the years which is what made this scene so perfect! The new account pitch about families sharing a meal that shows the three of them at a table together brought me back to the dynamic that has kept me addicted to this show for so long.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://blogs.amctv.com/mad-men/photo-galleries/mad-men-season-7-episode-photos/#/59" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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SOOO excited for the mid-season finale tonight, I have the feeling they'll continue on the course of sentimentality and make their audience VERY happy!!<br />
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<i>XOXO!!</i>Melinda Djemanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853970999477760060noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1770901992361094524.post-35281361322184147092014-05-24T15:10:00.001-07:002014-05-24T15:10:33.363-07:00Happy Marilyn May!Hello there Kittens!<br />
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When I came up with the concept of <a href="http://thevintageproject.blogspot.com/2014/04/happy-audrey-april.html" target="_blank">Audrey April</a> last month, I had intended it to be part of a set. I thought that Audrey April would precede Marilyn May quite nicely. I started Audrey April late, so of course, Marilyn May is getting off to a rather late start as well. <i>C'est la vie!</i> I really enjoyed Audrey April (the third film post is still forthcoming) as it gave me an excuse to watch films that I had always meant to see, but simply never got around to. I am hoping that Marilyn May to be very much the same in that respect!<br />
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If you didn't see the Audrey April post, you may not be familiar with the theory that inspired this concept - that brunettes are drawn to Audrey Hepburn while blondes are drawn to Marilyn Monroe. It's a theory that my friend Bridget haphazardly mentioned in conversation once and it prompted me to think about these two very iconic ladies. I realized that I really wasn't nearly as familiar with their films as I thought I should be, so the concept of Audrey April and Marilyn May were born. Since we have two months starting with the letter A and two months starting with the letter M, perhaps we'll be spending even more time with these ladies than I'd originally intended. I'm just going to see how things go, but, personally, I'd be more than fine with it.<br />
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So, Marilyn...Oh Marilyn. I've always been drawn to her. Beyond the fact that she's the most iconic blonde in history (which admittedly makes me a bit biased), there's the fact that she has been the feminine ideal for more than a few generations. Sex symbol, sure, but what people remember her for is not the fact that she was in the very first issue of Playboy, but the fact that she entranced the world. She was known for her perfect coiffe and her knockout figure and the breathy way she would speak. This is the image that most people probably have of Marilyn.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://vintage-dame.tumblr.com/image/37841589234" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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Personally, I cannot think of Marilyn and not think of the vulnerability and sadness that lay just beneath the surface. She had a hard life, was a tragic figure, but still had an innocence about her. The whole world worshipped her, but all she wanted was to be loved. At any cost. And that was ultimately her downfall. <br />
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Sadly, Marilyn Monroe was, and remains, largely pigeon-holed as a dumb blonde sex symbol. While she undeniably had a great deal of sexual magnetism, she was so much more. Her strength, ambition, and talent have been overshadowed by the image of her in a wiggle dress. So, I'd like for you to come along with me in discovering her films. The American Film Institute gave her the sixth spot on the ladies' side of the <a href="http://www.afi.com/100years/stars.aspx" target="_blank">Top 50 Greatest Film Legends</a> List and we're going to let her films tell us why!<br />
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Over this long weekend, why not spend some time with Marilyn? I've scheduled a bit of Marilyn downtime for myself and I'm very much looking forward to it!<br />
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<i>XOXO!!</i>Melinda Djemanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853970999477760060noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1770901992361094524.post-23348537929625133112014-05-22T23:45:00.000-07:002014-05-23T12:00:07.570-07:00A Room With A View - Book Club Meeting and Movie Day<h2>
A Room With A View</h2>
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E.M. Forster, 1908</h2>
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This post has been a long time in the making, but honestly, I just couldn't get excited about it. Overall, Bridget and I have been very lucky in The Vintage Project Book Club picks. The only exceptions have been <i><a href="http://thevintageproject.blogspot.com/2013/08/august-book-club-selection.html" target="_blank">The Alchemist</a> </i>and now <i>A Room with a View...</i></div>
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I'm really not sure why <i>A Room with a View</i> is considered a classic because I liked the idea of this novel far more than I liked the novel itself. Perhaps the novel gained some notoriety for the fact that the main character bucks the societal conventions of repressed Edwardian society. Kind of. While Lucy holds some pretty radical ideas for her time, she doesn't really stray from the expectations that people have of her and, personally, I didn't like her. Or any of the other characters (aside from the unconventional Mr. Emerson). I'm not sure if I can completely blame the elitist, self-righteousness that seemed to permeate the fabric of the upper class or if these characters are ALL terrible people. That's truly a difficult decision.</div>
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I won't really get into the novel too much, and if you enjoy characters that say things like, "Stop a minute, let those two people go on or I shall have to speak to them. I do detest conventional intercourse," then maybe this IS the book for you. To back me up even further, Bridget couldn't even finish it, and this was HER selection! I'll admit that the last quarter of the story was somewhat engaging, but it took too long to get there and it couldn't make up for everything that came before it.</div>
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Seeing as how I'm not selling the novel....because I'm not going to advocate you subjecting yourself to it, if you must know the story, perhaps you'll watch the film like we did.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JFIPjRFuaHA" target="_blank">watch the trailer</a></td></tr>
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In 1985, Merchant Ivory Productions (which evidently means a lot to Anglophiles) released the film adaptation of the novel. The film has an extraordinary cast, including a VERY young Helena Bonham Carter in her breakout role. While the film tells a much better story than the actual story itself, I feel the need to warn you that it is a bit slow and surprisingly long. Oh, and there's A LOT of penis in it. Frankly I was surprised by that aspect, but it managed to make an Edwardian story that was incredibly difficult to finish much more interesting!</div>
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I mentioned the cast - Helena Bonham Carter as Lucy, Maggie Smith as Charlotte, and Judi Dench as Miss Lavish were amazing. I may not have liked their characters, but they brought so much to the flat, irritating characters that were found on the page. But far and away, my favorite portrayal in the film was Cecil, played by a COMPLETELY unrecognizable Daniel Day-Lewis! Now, I know that his 'thing' is to immerse himself in a character and alter his appearance, but this was spectacular! So spectacular, in fact, that while I knew it was him, I kept looking at him and still wasn't able to see Daniel Day-Lewis. Can you tell that it's him? You can? Liar.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.film.com/photos/daniel-day-lewis-movie-photos/attachment/danieldaylewis_2" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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My two cents? Watch the movie. Skip the novel. There are so many other great reads out there, no need to waste your time with this one. Hey, our selections can't all be winners.... So, we'll just call this a Book Club Fail and move on - here's hoping that we all enjoy the next one!</div>
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Have you been following along at home? If so, I do apologize for this one and I hope it doesn't scare you off. Perhaps if a few more of you join in on the fun and let me know, we will have more motivation to actually stick to our <a href="http://thevintageproject.blogspot.com/p/the-vintage-project-book-club.html" target="_blank">Book Club</a> schedule. We're using May to play a little catch up, but new selections are just around the corner!</div>
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<i>Happy Reading!</i></div>
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<i>XOXO!!</i> </div>
Melinda Djemanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853970999477760060noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1770901992361094524.post-9785818920818102232014-05-18T22:18:00.000-07:002014-05-18T22:18:25.643-07:00Mad Men Cocktail Hour - The GrasshopperGood Evening, Lovelies!<br />
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Last week, I found myself without any form of cocktail tie-in. Since the Kentucky Derby was the week before, choosing the <a href="http://thevintageproject.blogspot.com/2014/05/mad-men-cocktail-hour-mint-julep-little.html" target="_blank">Mint Julep</a> was a no-brainer, but this week I simply went to the AMC website, closed my eyes, and pointed. So, the Grasshopper, it was!<br />
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In all the times that I've browsed the cocktails on <a href="http://www.amctv.com/shows/mad-men/cocktail-guide" target="_blank">this list</a>, I've always thought the Grasshopper looked very retro and very interesting and when I told Bridget, my Mad Men Partner In Crime, of my selection, she told me that it was her mother's cocktail of choice when she was a single girl out on the town. PERFECT!<br />
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This is definitely NOT a Draper cocktail as Bridget and I have come to call many of the classic cocktails we've tried. No, this is most definitely more of a Betty cocktail. Even Peggy wouldn't drink a cocktail this girly, but you know, sometimes you just want something yummy and pretty. While I am not a fan of the super sweet drinks, the fact that the Grasshopper tastes like a Girl Scout Thin Mint in a glass, makes it really fun! Made of equal parts green Crème de Menthe and white Crème de Cacao and light cream, it's a super simple cocktail. Since I had half and half on hand, I used that and the result was delicious!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1WY0UZCf9RMIOdrxqVf0jMULa9iXNl7sJod9Dgdw0q3EuthwNn0k-cRtWEwnBviSri9YgN3iK7P3FFyVWrResW2kfgb0c_7yqVz0MhPAQRug7Sux-yh61dxJnISHAqItvN5ngUnQeBPM/s1600/DSC_2586.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1WY0UZCf9RMIOdrxqVf0jMULa9iXNl7sJod9Dgdw0q3EuthwNn0k-cRtWEwnBviSri9YgN3iK7P3FFyVWrResW2kfgb0c_7yqVz0MhPAQRug7Sux-yh61dxJnISHAqItvN5ngUnQeBPM/s1600/DSC_2586.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
Unlike most other cocktails, the history of the Grasshopper is very cut and dry. Philibert Guichet, Jr., the owner of New Orleans' Tujaque's Bar and Restaurant entered the Grasshopper into a cocktail contest and won second place in New York City in 1928. Yes, 1928 - before the repeal of Prohibition in 1933 - I'm pretty sure you had to 'know a guy' in order to get into this contest. Over the years, different variations have been created and when Bridget told me that it was simply too sweet for her, I made a batch of Flying Grasshoppers which substitutes vodka for the cream. This variation is far more potent, but I preferred the creaminess of the original. Try them both and decide for yourself. I promise you it will be a fun evening!<br />
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With our cocktails in hand, we settled in to watch the fifth episode of this short season and all I have to say is WOW! There was sex and violence and computers trying to make people gay (at least according to Ginsberg).<br />
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SO much happened, but let's stick to the highlights. Stephanie, the REAL Don Draper's niece calls Don from L.A. and tells him that she is pregnant and needs some money. He tells her that he will be out the next day and sends her to Megan's to get a shower and something to eat. He genuinely seems excited to hear from her. Mainly I think because she is the only remaining link to his past. When she gets to Megan's, there is an awkward sexual air between the two of them. After Stephanie has a shower and begins talking to Megan, she feels threatened that this girl might know Don better than she does, she freaks out, writes her a check for $1000 and sends her packing. Megan is ALL over the place this episode! And this character that I've never particularly liked is now just someone I'd like to see gone. But not before Lou...no one should go before Lou does!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZNfFGfZ4EE_7_nrzF2y1DykUtigBXXXcoTden_kQGhUZRjlj5Qhk76wYoxEnm_Ws1hqqjhDciGXL_rf6BdUJ9kePFiCMjm4w04fE4amhzE7Of-GFFN-WQt4W6vbfVspd3wFmJnK0PD9Q/s1600/mad+men+705+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZNfFGfZ4EE_7_nrzF2y1DykUtigBXXXcoTden_kQGhUZRjlj5Qhk76wYoxEnm_Ws1hqqjhDciGXL_rf6BdUJ9kePFiCMjm4w04fE4amhzE7Of-GFFN-WQt4W6vbfVspd3wFmJnK0PD9Q/s1600/mad+men+705+2.jpg" height="448" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://blogs.amctv.com/mad-men/photo-galleries/mad-men-season-7-episode-photos/#/47" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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Don is delayed at the office by Asshole Lou and is not able to get to L.A. until the next morning. While it made Don and everyone else incredibly irritated, I'd say hearing this exchange made it worth it for most people.<br />
Lou: "You know who had a ridiculous dream and people laughed at him?"<br />
Stan: "You?"<br />
I laughed out loud and Bridget spilled her Grasshopper on my couch.<br />
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So, Don makes it to L.A. only to find Stephanie gone and Megan getting ready for a party that night. It was just uncomfortable to watch. Don's on edge and Megan seems too stupid or too dense to realize that what she's doing is pushing Don closer and closer to completely losing his shit. After she pushes pretty much every one of his buttons, she decides the best way to fix their problems is a three-way. Um, no. But Don being Don and having all working parts, goes along with it, but leaves for New York the next morning.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://uproxx.com/tv/2014/05/mad-men-recap-weirdest-fking-episode-ever-scouts-honor/" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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Back in New York, Betty is still terrible, but we're seeing that Henry is as well. It's actually pretty sad, I liked Henry for a long time, but when Henry tells her to effectively keep her mouth shut and leave the thinking to him, I about lost it. "Keep your conversation to how much you hate getting toast crumbs in the butter." Really, Henry? You may not be as crazy as Betty, but maybe you deserve her immature, self-righteous butt! While it's really irritating at the time, it's pretty funny to look back at her behavior, like when she tells Henry that maybe she WILL run for public office, because, you know, she's smart - she knows Italian!!<br />
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We know for certain that Betty is delusional, but I never quite realized how mentally unstable Ginsberg was. You would think that the most talked about scene of this episode would be the threesome, but it came in a distant second to the last scene between Peggy and Ginsberg. The last two episodes Ginsberg has been freaking out over the new computer, screaming that it is trying to erase them ("but can't erase this couch!"), but it is not until working on a Saturday alone in the office that he cracks. He tries to stuff his ears full of tissue to drown out the computer's humming (which no one else seems to hear) and sees Cutler and Lou standing very close together in the computer room. This has him convinced that the machine is making people gay, so he goes to Peggy's to work and then tries to have sex with her to prove that he's not gay. Perfectly logical. At the office on Monday, Ginsberg goes into Peggy's office, confesses that he loves her and that his behavior on Saturday was just a build up of pressure. He tells her that she shouldn't worry, because he's found a way to relieve the pressure and hands her a small box. But there is no ring in the box. No, it's his nipple that he's sliced off.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.scottslucher.com/2014/05/12/tv-review-mad-men-episode-705-the-runaways/" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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Poor, poor Ginsberg. Driven insane. I'm sad to see him go down this path and sad to see him go, but things are changing and fast. Don was given information about the agency going after a new cigarette company and that, after his Big Tobacco manifesto a few seasons back, Cutler and Lou were going to use it to force Don out. Don shows up at the meeting and proves to the potential clients that he's indispensable. Don's back. And I'm excited!<br />
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<i>We're only a few minutes from the next episode. Whether you're watching in real time or On Demand-ing it, like we do, I wish you happy viewing!</i><br />
<i>XOXO!!</i>Melinda Djemanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853970999477760060noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1770901992361094524.post-55170342123012205962014-05-18T10:42:00.000-07:002014-07-19T22:53:57.829-07:00Brunch 05.03.2014 - A Mug-Themed Birthday Celebration<h2>
La Creperie, Long Beach</h2>
Good Sunday Morning To You Kittens!<br />
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Two weeks ago, I had the privilege of meeting up with some of my fabulous ladies for Brunch to celebrate the birthday of one of the most amazing people I know, Stephanie. I was so excited since we don't all get together very regularly and I was also very excited for the venue. Stephanie chose <a href="http://www.lacreperiecafe.net/" target="_blank">La Creperie</a> in Long Beach and while I've been there a few times (even to celebrate my own birthday), it's been a few years. Like many of you, I'm sure, I very much enjoy a good crêpe and sample them whenever the opportunity presents itself. Admittedly, those opportunities are rather rare, but I can tell you with certainty that if you are in the mood for a good crêpe (and then some), this is definitely a place to keep in mind!</div>
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Located on 2nd Street in Long Beach, this little gem is located in the Belmont Shore neighborhood. While this area is filled with tons of cute shops and eateries, La Creperie is definitely a standout! The atmosphere is very Parisian Bohemian with murals painted on the walls, large chandeliers, plenty of mirrors, and a piano. Another cool aspect is the window where you can watch the crêpes being made!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPa84XYPxLpdSkPSYZSbrWJRD0uLqOWI6PBsKZeKAGwC9jhnRLN0n9kzM6-xV6_yW-3_31FcNsl7Za4y_iSfjEht4Mtd7zQ_LHAjhrL8ksUQqpVOLovigHyAieCFxKvMwt30FMn3AFmVM/s1600/DSC_2511.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPa84XYPxLpdSkPSYZSbrWJRD0uLqOWI6PBsKZeKAGwC9jhnRLN0n9kzM6-xV6_yW-3_31FcNsl7Za4y_iSfjEht4Mtd7zQ_LHAjhrL8ksUQqpVOLovigHyAieCFxKvMwt30FMn3AFmVM/s1600/DSC_2511.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
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The large window to the left of the bar is the crêpe viewing window. So much fun to watch as you pass by! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisr50fXlv0xz_FEadNztcQM0e-XHRPTKk6A4xOZJQ3V0QFRSM8pSt7Anv_eSmif2gfp06DD1j3fZ6HLtLibbAZvgF-CDMDzbR51rzWiultCS8eApbY8nsgULEdvUT6Ogp6s9sge8RDJR4/s1600/DSC_2550.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisr50fXlv0xz_FEadNztcQM0e-XHRPTKk6A4xOZJQ3V0QFRSM8pSt7Anv_eSmif2gfp06DD1j3fZ6HLtLibbAZvgF-CDMDzbR51rzWiultCS8eApbY8nsgULEdvUT6Ogp6s9sge8RDJR4/s1600/DSC_2550.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
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Stephanie and Alicia and a lovely chandelier.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYm7vzfI1fH4jJiGpjx2K3hy3wsaTfzsNd4vaFFPoZsUSUJbd_hgMbaRdS5hm4h0BP564lX4g5JkCCrmsiEUxsgwYZqONCNgbcAGsIDajgnqQ9xNUF0Zlv1p-BiHkZOLuQU5iuX0ANJfM/s1600/DSC_2507.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYm7vzfI1fH4jJiGpjx2K3hy3wsaTfzsNd4vaFFPoZsUSUJbd_hgMbaRdS5hm4h0BP564lX4g5JkCCrmsiEUxsgwYZqONCNgbcAGsIDajgnqQ9xNUF0Zlv1p-BiHkZOLuQU5iuX0ANJfM/s1600/DSC_2507.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
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The second chandelier was above our heads.</div>
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I've always loved the mirrors and the conversation area created by the couches behind Lisa. Seriously, how fabulous is this place? Oh, but wait...it gets better!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMtOFnr-sfR60_UyPqSDD3dnrPlzKWj41QQOmrMB12bYn4kgBzmy5xafI66C4Z5OJx8AA68vfTU59-S7TNDEOXZOuSlan91DpZXFBu6KEDuHii6NDjpH7lgE7ynMB9N8KNV9UT4aQcPW0/s1600/DSC_2509.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMtOFnr-sfR60_UyPqSDD3dnrPlzKWj41QQOmrMB12bYn4kgBzmy5xafI66C4Z5OJx8AA68vfTU59-S7TNDEOXZOuSlan91DpZXFBu6KEDuHii6NDjpH7lgE7ynMB9N8KNV9UT4aQcPW0/s1600/DSC_2509.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
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After we all settled in, we ordered Mimosas, Bellinis, and Bubbly with pomegranate juice. And toasted the birthday girl. Cheers! Santé!!</div>
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We caught up and laughed and enjoyed each other's company and before long, our food arrived. I don't think I've ever been here and had someone unhappy with their order. Pretty good endorsement if you ask me. Check out their <a href="http://www.lacreperiecafe.net/menus/p200943" target="_blank">menus here</a> and prepare to get hungry!</div>
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Here is my Al Mare Crêpe. For some reason it's not listed as part of their online menu, but it is filled with mushrooms, fresh tomatoes, sundried tomatoes, cheese, and shrimp in a lobster sauce. A-Mazing!! My favorite thing on their menu!</div>
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Lisa ordered the mussels which come with their fabulous garlic fries. Holy Moly! So much garlicy goodness happening here!</div>
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Britni got the Crepe Carbonara which has chicken breast, smoked bacon, and mozzarella in a creamy garlic and Parmesan sauce with pesto. From what I understand, it was delicious!</div>
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Alicia ordered the Belmont Eggwhite Omlete. Spinach, mushroom, tomato, feta, and ricotta. Looked and smelled fantastic!<br />
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And then the Birthday Girl's mystery crêpe. I have NO idea what she ordered. But if I remember correctly, her plate was licked clean just like the rest of ours, so while I don't know exactly what it was, I have it on good authority that it was delectable.</div>
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After we'd finished, we were all in varying stages of food coma, so we took a breather for presents. This was by far the most interesting present opening that I'd ever seen. </div>
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Let me preface by saying that Stephanie has something of a mug fetish. She likes coffee mugs and tea cups. Like she loves them. A lot. To be fair, she has a thing for stemware in general, but cups hold a special place in her heart.</div>
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So, when I came across these super fun, vintage inspired coffee mugs, I knew I had to get them for her!</div>
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I also found these awesome cocktail napkins!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOMrg-GvMjIqSxtrBPY4exOzfOG-Pw3rRTWMwM-jwpcw9xCOXYIcCTOUVGE2DaO64gsCpKx60ravH9WoD9Re6oF1rQVdTOFQZtG_yfxK-K260rWlR_P28cd_WhoC7BBX3E9ymnHVPYzq4/s1600/DSC_2500.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOMrg-GvMjIqSxtrBPY4exOzfOG-Pw3rRTWMwM-jwpcw9xCOXYIcCTOUVGE2DaO64gsCpKx60ravH9WoD9Re6oF1rQVdTOFQZtG_yfxK-K260rWlR_P28cd_WhoC7BBX3E9ymnHVPYzq4/s1600/DSC_2500.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMdPVblQuz6eFTDbAsdSDrsdsB2KTccA5NUGaDHljAvGL4FWBBA72Z_BTErB_g1ylKeZzcF4qHCwDbWFzyKPxXJ8Lub_0UfGXmKHO9YoAtO3poyuec05oTFHvRi2KbW4ocVtWXlROX2qk/s1600/DSC_2502.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMdPVblQuz6eFTDbAsdSDrsdsB2KTccA5NUGaDHljAvGL4FWBBA72Z_BTErB_g1ylKeZzcF4qHCwDbWFzyKPxXJ8Lub_0UfGXmKHO9YoAtO3poyuec05oTFHvRi2KbW4ocVtWXlROX2qk/s1600/DSC_2502.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
I added a bottle of bubbly and thought it was a fun little package!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-zMXEFS-LmFt3wph9h2-IJ4Yot9zfL2OBE_n8x1zurerGiANz_zXlJBQiYfVzUD7zx5AUidaxmrUNZmGutWaSeHk1EWvwqqVRqUUBdN2GWIN9oKWSom4vo7DVNUcFEwSUeu3heXPHL3g/s1600/DSC_2503.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-zMXEFS-LmFt3wph9h2-IJ4Yot9zfL2OBE_n8x1zurerGiANz_zXlJBQiYfVzUD7zx5AUidaxmrUNZmGutWaSeHk1EWvwqqVRqUUBdN2GWIN9oKWSom4vo7DVNUcFEwSUeu3heXPHL3g/s1600/DSC_2503.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
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Evidently, I wasn't the only one who thought of mugs when they thought of Stephanie. She received a set of these beauties from Anthropologie.</div>
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And this beautiful package contained even more mug-y fun!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSsFaqFCBiVI9SAsk7HlR3t99k4jo6YFr5ZB0NyvYjZwCKJSa3OROFvDIamEBjZXxfCvPfo_7igecYYbW4e0j3HysF6atyam2Pa82UHx2Y1mGBPFcu4if-PGc2_l0a8sO0tSbA0805tl8/s1600/DSC_2515.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSsFaqFCBiVI9SAsk7HlR3t99k4jo6YFr5ZB0NyvYjZwCKJSa3OROFvDIamEBjZXxfCvPfo_7igecYYbW4e0j3HysF6atyam2Pa82UHx2Y1mGBPFcu4if-PGc2_l0a8sO0tSbA0805tl8/s1600/DSC_2515.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
Seeing as how Stephanie runs the <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/DarlinglovesDapper" target="_blank">Darling Loves Dapper Etsy shop</a>, this was beyond perfect!<br />
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So every gift that she opened contained a mug! Seriously, what are the chances?? </div>
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Then it was time for dessert. Stephanie selected the Martinique crêpe which was filled with bananas flambéed in dark rum with brown sugar and butter. (It was DELICIOUS!!) I also let our server know that it was Stephanie's birthday, and that we needed two candles. Britni's birthday is just a few days before Stephanie's and we'd already celebrated, but there were no candles involved, so I thought this was a good time to rectify that little faux pas. The staff here is absolutely amazing and this was brought to the table.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja22iMcKdnMFWd_b3ZjFFcFLVFWCk0HATuilMHpNXIiJSVt_EigCQsqpBQlo0V8k1IK17PqHkvrDhheRk-0quDISqv51Lao-c6Ym30Q7w_gwNM2AtwyY6_VPmatUTmOrylcaw7h1hn_8w/s1600/DSC_2544.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja22iMcKdnMFWd_b3ZjFFcFLVFWCk0HATuilMHpNXIiJSVt_EigCQsqpBQlo0V8k1IK17PqHkvrDhheRk-0quDISqv51Lao-c6Ym30Q7w_gwNM2AtwyY6_VPmatUTmOrylcaw7h1hn_8w/s1600/DSC_2544.JPG" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihpksN_ixNthJ_TyAhw2724xSXFZYKMSvSgO0si-4Al29kH6riV_MZygXvObVW9-TV26BPhFui1cbJCP_MeY1VWP9ofKyDe2JuQRi-5FTOKgKE9WhZpcjof2Bc08xLCT6z3D_CdhWUqrk/s1600/DSC_2543.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihpksN_ixNthJ_TyAhw2724xSXFZYKMSvSgO0si-4Al29kH6riV_MZygXvObVW9-TV26BPhFui1cbJCP_MeY1VWP9ofKyDe2JuQRi-5FTOKgKE9WhZpcjof2Bc08xLCT6z3D_CdhWUqrk/s1600/DSC_2543.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
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When in Paris (or a Parisian restaurant)...<br />
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J'aime these ladies so much!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8_WCH4Law1ZtZQv9r-ZerZGPMWlpd4o7WxPZ5eiRq9y8SB59MEK-wPqOYg_-QB1_TAsoKSmUXoerKXZRjsdGb57Evjc5naoIIPdWy-wth_vIPQq2RGFnOVVtCu2knPtoWz4916io4TYQ/s1600/DSC_2549.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8_WCH4Law1ZtZQv9r-ZerZGPMWlpd4o7WxPZ5eiRq9y8SB59MEK-wPqOYg_-QB1_TAsoKSmUXoerKXZRjsdGb57Evjc5naoIIPdWy-wth_vIPQq2RGFnOVVtCu2knPtoWz4916io4TYQ/s1600/DSC_2549.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
For a multitude of reasons.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjeUiB58byCDEGZVdPiIP1N2PIAWr7DRITCVR2ZDCrlBlUI3nOXy77JeftXfkl7QFs1v6b8mGM0RZu1OqR-PIixG79OGTF_q1e24qyikITdgCzQjIQ8UtAegN6rNEcxDeN81RpKfVO9O4/s1600/DSC_2534.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjeUiB58byCDEGZVdPiIP1N2PIAWr7DRITCVR2ZDCrlBlUI3nOXy77JeftXfkl7QFs1v6b8mGM0RZu1OqR-PIixG79OGTF_q1e24qyikITdgCzQjIQ8UtAegN6rNEcxDeN81RpKfVO9O4/s1600/DSC_2534.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
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Was this a fabulous way to spend a Saturday morning? </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYKHShNNpIK5xmAozj0vbmwuu7orZsuwSHPrDlsysbRmnVsXFcFCPh17YOjKHWpWFXwogBQvsmAaqHh5teCwLpILOWn5Ng4wjP1DKjewOMGvTfse-bWPi5z7rQFvODPCehhyphenhyphennGBiYuNdQ/s1600/DSC_2540.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYKHShNNpIK5xmAozj0vbmwuu7orZsuwSHPrDlsysbRmnVsXFcFCPh17YOjKHWpWFXwogBQvsmAaqHh5teCwLpILOWn5Ng4wjP1DKjewOMGvTfse-bWPi5z7rQFvODPCehhyphenhyphennGBiYuNdQ/s1600/DSC_2540.JPG" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
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I think so. And I believe Stephanie would agree.</div>
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The moral of this story is to pop into La Creperie Cafe at your next opportunity (but make sure you type the actual 2nd Street address into your navigation since this restaurant was formerly located elsewhere in Long Beach and Google maps directed two of us to the previous location when we simply typed in the name). Oh, and also mugs are a great gift. So, I suppose this story actually has two morals.</div>
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<i>Happy Brunching, Kittens! I hope you consider this place the next time you find yourself stumped for a location!</i></div>
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<i>XOXO!!</i></div>
Melinda Djemanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853970999477760060noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1770901992361094524.post-16417467634135230492014-05-12T16:01:00.000-07:002014-05-12T18:57:29.435-07:00In Celebration of Mom<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hello there Kittens!<br />
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As I'm sure you're all aware, Mother's Day was yesterday. To celebrate, I spent a fabulous day with my mother, grandmother, and sister. My sister and I made Brunch and we spent a quiet day in with fantastic food, fantastic company, and a few bottles of bubbly! <br />
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Not that I ever really forget, but it again reminded me just how lucky I am to have these ladies in my life (parkas and all). Mother's Day is a day to bring things back into focus. In the relationship between a mother and her daughter there will be many fights and tests of will and even periods of time when the two of you are not on speaking terms. These are rites of passage and are inevitable. Also in the relationship between all mothers and daughters is the love that can erase all that ugliness. <br />
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For the moment, I am simply a daughter. I can only imagine what it is like to be both mother and daughter and what it is to realize that all the special things that were done for you, you have also done for someone else. Aside from the whole giving birth thing, these very special ladies read to us.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://life.time.com/culture/mothers-day-special-life-with-famous-moms/#1" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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They made sure we ate our vegetables, whether we were happy about that or not.</div>
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They made us feel like we could do anything - even if it that only meant figuring out how to get something to work...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNb-mwRvMj9_qAdQbpKbPfpI9jSPvyklhaDR8FraWNZmtsBN3OjInmbmDrto5nguYKn6VUIlQ9vxReNfcH52kbXVj-oIoQ8rx1ToeTDah_OtQrkWXkBJwxF3XBEN0kb_-I55JCVFhLtcw/s1600/daughter-sewing-with-mother.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNb-mwRvMj9_qAdQbpKbPfpI9jSPvyklhaDR8FraWNZmtsBN3OjInmbmDrto5nguYKn6VUIlQ9vxReNfcH52kbXVj-oIoQ8rx1ToeTDah_OtQrkWXkBJwxF3XBEN0kb_-I55JCVFhLtcw/s1600/daughter-sewing-with-mother.jpg" height="506" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://terracottasavannah.com/category/promotion/" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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Or how to NOT burn the cookies.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqsfXmPf8kWb438ibK5zzY3xksrWDmc4PtnZgoNjzxJsoBulnUGTmFdqigYOc-lV_PCF27-0hiF4An6rOYHHtSQYG1gVMuLWbKKBRM52PZAdoauH_nrVBskj3p2ueq38h_l5CHihTwH6A/s1600/making+cookies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqsfXmPf8kWb438ibK5zzY3xksrWDmc4PtnZgoNjzxJsoBulnUGTmFdqigYOc-lV_PCF27-0hiF4An6rOYHHtSQYG1gVMuLWbKKBRM52PZAdoauH_nrVBskj3p2ueq38h_l5CHihTwH6A/s1600/making+cookies.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.today.com/moms/not-your-mothers-motherhood-moms-numbers-through-decades-2D79646659" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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They taught us that sometimes a good hairdo can take quite a bit of work.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2kwe5woiYcQ6RCHxOR7ezaKXNH_5fhKU63HARwondM49w6GQj-ZRuMk9f4PwXLC-gZYWF4yzOtpEZdjhyphenhyphenLq2zAForUhMrj0gbZtRizdKyyjL3gWHccxtDRHLwUemTtJ1IqQ7h0MWINis/s1600/Curlers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2kwe5woiYcQ6RCHxOR7ezaKXNH_5fhKU63HARwondM49w6GQj-ZRuMk9f4PwXLC-gZYWF4yzOtpEZdjhyphenhyphenLq2zAForUhMrj0gbZtRizdKyyjL3gWHccxtDRHLwUemTtJ1IqQ7h0MWINis/s1600/Curlers.jpg" height="640" width="636" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.justfindit4u.com/you-are-due/" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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They made us believe that a kiss could make everything better (which I still believe is the case most of the time).</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://life.time.com/culture/mothers-day-special-life-with-famous-moms/#18" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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And that there is nothing better than a little silliness now and again.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjydJAjeCLTA1bP2InF4PoRANskCsHcOct7hI2KxLxPI9tGjwb1nap3eJ4uKBqAccaG0CSNZ3UuIvR2c5lIwOMjJsUphIoYq9s-kEcgPjqw2BtEtW9Yn0pHRSaqpq4b9RJr12kohmIcc7I/s1600/shirley+mcclain.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjydJAjeCLTA1bP2InF4PoRANskCsHcOct7hI2KxLxPI9tGjwb1nap3eJ4uKBqAccaG0CSNZ3UuIvR2c5lIwOMjJsUphIoYq9s-kEcgPjqw2BtEtW9Yn0pHRSaqpq4b9RJr12kohmIcc7I/s1600/shirley+mcclain.jpg" height="640" width="504" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://indulgy.com/source/life.com/from/122624176748" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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Here's to all the Mamas that made us feel loved and safe and even coordinated outfits with us from time to time. At the end of the day, our mothers are human, but for most of us, they were our first heroes, which made them larger than life. They were smart and beautiful and could do absolutely anything - and they were our first glimpse into what it meant to be a Lady. I remember watching my mother in fascination as she put on her makeup, wishing one day to be able to do the same, to be able to wear heels like she did, and be able to smell as pretty, because, to me, she smelled better than anyone else in the whole world! No one's childhood is perfect, but for a little while, most of us thought that ours was. If you had a mom like mine, you thought that nothing bad could ever happen, she wouldn't let it.<br />
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'Thank You!' to all the Ladies who gave little girls hope that, they too, may one day be as fabulous as their Mommies.<br />
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<i>XOXO!!</i></div>
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Melinda Djemanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853970999477760060noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1770901992361094524.post-15526240895587080202014-05-11T20:43:00.001-07:002014-05-11T20:43:49.655-07:00Mad Men Cocktail Hour - The Mint Julep & A Little Kentucky Derby Fun'Evenin' Darlin's! (Cue curtsey.)<br />
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For those of you who were unaware, the Southern institution that is the Kentucky Derby kicked off the Triple Crown last weekend. There are many really interesting facts about the Kentucky Derby. And here are some of them in no particular order:<br />
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-The Kentucky Derby was started by Col. Meriweather Lewis Clark, Jr., the grandson of William Clark of the Lewis and Clark exploration team.<br />
-The race is called "The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports" or "The Fastest Two Minutes In Sports" as all the hoopla surrounds a race that is two minutes on average. It is also referred to as "The Run for the Roses," a reference to the wreath of 554 red roses that is placed around the winning horse's neck.<br />
-The Kentucky Derby has taken place at Churchill Downs in Kentucky every year since 1875 without fail.<br />
-The Kentucky Derby, the Preakness Stakes, and the Belmont Stakes make up the Triple Crown. Since their inception, all three races have only ever been won by the same horse in one year eleven times, the last time in 1978.<br />
-The 1973 winner, Secretariat, holds the distinction of winning the Kentucky Derby with the fastest time ever, but it is his Belmont Stakes win was ranked #2 behind Wilt Chamberland's 100 point game as being the best sports performance of all time by ESPN in 2005. Secretariat was also the only non-human athlete on the list.<br />
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While I'm not a fan of what happens to these beautiful creatures after they've passed their racing prime, I do love the tradition of the races. And the Kentucky Derby has the richest tradition of any horse race in the U.S. My two favorite traditions are listed below.<br />
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Tradition #1. The Fashion. Specifically the hats. There are only a few events that still have a dress code and the wardrobe and the hats are still an integral part of the Kentucky Derby experience. Despite the tradition and the amount of money to be made, the parade of large, over-the-top hats is the biggest draw for many people.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ-gewzBCmVvejzop2s-fKB0Aio24VuPeugDDarC5QjSG-1SB3lIWwry65hX8Gb-poxAa7r1Yc7RCsZTPCYrV82Ul4Nyrr85ODHFmPlTdLCw6At78H2NkX936SMd7-GFQ2kMZD_iLv9ao/s1600/derby+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ-gewzBCmVvejzop2s-fKB0Aio24VuPeugDDarC5QjSG-1SB3lIWwry65hX8Gb-poxAa7r1Yc7RCsZTPCYrV82Ul4Nyrr85ODHFmPlTdLCw6At78H2NkX936SMd7-GFQ2kMZD_iLv9ao/s1600/derby+1.jpg" height="470" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.thenotvanilla.com/2010/08/16/out-of-the-races-onto-the-tracks/" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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Tradition #2. The Mint Julep. Ah, now we're getting down to the nitty-gritty! The Mint Julep became the official drink of the Kentucky Derby in 1938. Because watching horses run may leave one parched, over 120,000 Mint Juleps are served over the course of the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks racing weekend. Since 2006, Churchill Downs has also served a special (read - ridiculous) Mint Julep that supports a charity for retired race horses. This version sells for $1000 (!?!?) and is made with Woodford Reserve Bourbon, mint imported from Ireland, ice cubes made from Spring Water imported from the Bavarian Alps, and Sugar from Australia. Seriously? Seriously. Oh, did I also mention that they are served in gold-plated cups with silver straws? I didn't? Well, they are. Oh, the decadence of it all... With or without the $1000 price tag, the Mint Julep is a fun drink - a strong fun drink. Which is why it was perfect for this week's Mad Men cocktail! When I found it on the <a href="http://www.amctv.com/shows/mad-men/cocktail-guide/mint-julep" target="_blank">Mad Men Cocktail Guide</a>, I knew my weekly search was over!<br />
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Speaking of tradition, in true cocktail tradition, the Mint Julep has quite a history. This cocktail appears to have originally been prescribed for the medicinal properties it was believed to possess, which is the reason I had one. Wasn't that your reason too? Perhaps its earliest literary mention was in 1784 in <i>Medical Communications - Volume 1</i>, in reference to a patient who was sick to their stomach. "I then prescribed her an emetic, some opening powders, and a mint julep." It was also the Virginians' morning drink of choice before coffee came into vogue as the way to function when getting up before dawn. The Mint Julep made the move from farming fields to the big city when Kentucky senator and future Secretary of State, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Henry_Clay" target="_blank">Henry Clay</a>, made it in the Willard Hotel's Round Robin Bar in Washington, D.C. While the Mint Julep may appear to have strictly Southern roots, the Julep itself is quite worldly! The word "julep" stems from the Middle Eastern "julab", which was a drink containing water and rose petals. Swap mint for the rose petals and add some bourbon and sugar and you've got yourself a mighty tasty cocktail!<br />
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It seems that there are as many versions of this cocktail as there are people who make it, I used <a href="http://www.latimes.com/food/dailydish/la-dd-kentucky-derby-2014-the-best-mint-julep-recipe-20140502-story.html" target="_blank">this one</a> and muddled the mint a bit. If you want to buck tradition, you can take the unnecessary step of making a mint infusion like they did in <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/the-perfect-mint-julep-recipe.html" target="_blank">this recipe</a>. I'm betting that this second recipe makes a Mint Julep closer to what most people who have only ever had a virgin Mint Julep in Disneyland's New Orleans Square think they are. To be honest, I'd never had an actual Mint Julep before now and while I liked it a lot, I have to admit, that Bridget nailed it when she said that people who've never tried one assume that it will taste like mint sweet tea with bourbon. For those of you who have yet to try this cocktail, it does NOT taste like that, but rest assured, it doesn't matter in the slightest.<br />
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So, now that we're sipping on some tasty beverages, let's talk <i>Mad Men</i>. With or without a Mint Julep in hand, there is such comedic value when it comes to the new fashion styles as we get closer to 1970. I don't know anyone who watched last week's episode and didn't get a good chuckle out of this shot. The men's fashion = comedy gold!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://blogs.amctv.com/mad-men/photo-galleries/mad-men-season-7-episode-photos/#/30" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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This season's fourth episode is finally back on track with the <i>Mad Men</i> that everyone, including me, has been waiting for. There was tension and Roger's one liners and me yelling at my TV screen. And the episode ended with me cheering and it was glorious!<br />
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So first, the tension. After Peggy is given a new account and has Don assigned to her team, the first meeting is SO awkward that Don proceeds to return to his office and throw his typewriter against the window. I was actually expecting the deathstare that he gave her to lead to a fight in her office. That fact that it didn't was probably worse. And it wasn't at all surprising that it prompted him to swipe a bottle of vodka from Roger's office, but when he got tanked at work - breaking one of the explicit rules that the Partners had given him, I was on pins and needles, expecting him to be found out at every turn. Good thing he had Freddie to save his dumb butt and give him the 'Come to Jesus' talk that he desperately needed! <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.glamour.com/entertainment/blogs/obsessed/2014/05/mad-men-season-7-episode-4.html" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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There was tension in Manhattan and there was tension outside of Manhattan. In the season opener, we saw Roger have lunch with his daughter, Margaret. She told him that she forgave him for everything and I automatically thought 'Cult.' I wasn't too wrong. In this episode we learn that she has abandoned her husband and child and has joined an honest-to-goodness hippie commune upstate. Roger and his ex-wife Mona (whom I LOVE) go to the country to bring her back. Heaviness and hilarity ensues. Which means, we have our beloved Roger back. These were my absolute favorite scenes of this episode! I mean, who didn't love Roger in his three-piece suit and Mona in her fur at the commune? If the visuals of the clothing and Mona fixing her makeup before getting out of the car weren't enough to stress the two different lifestyles that are now in play, Mona's line really drove the point home. "These people are lost and on drugs and have venereal diseases!" This scene really was fantastic! <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://blogs.amctv.com/mad-men/photo-galleries/mad-men-season-7-episode-photos/#/37" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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When Mona freaks out after Margaret (who is now calling herself Marigold) tells her that, unlike her, she does not need to lock herself in the bathroom with a pint of gin everyday to be happy, Roger has Mona take the car to go back to the city. He tells her that he'll have "Cletus drive (him) back to the train" and I about lost it! While Roger can appreciate Margaret wanting to escape her problems, he ultimately tries to force her to come back. Unsuccessfully. And when she throws the fact that he was always working and having affairs during her childhood in his face, I almost threw my Mint Julep at the screen! How dare she compare Roger's actions to hers? The fact that he was not around all the time is in no way comparable to her completely abandoning her child! The fact that he is even there trying to bring her back is evidence enough that he never truly abandoned her. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://blogs.amctv.com/mad-men/photo-galleries/mad-men-season-7-episode-photos/#/39" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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Ultimately, after all the ups and downs, the episode ends with Don taking Freddie's advice. He sits himself down in front of the same typewriter that he unsuccessfully attempted to defenestrate at the beginning of the episode. And he starts "doing the work."<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX3N4molnFEAsaZqBQVrFLXVBgi57B8s0t8aWXvxfIxzXjMzgoXPUKYIfKQL7sYa7b-wMh2a3w92ATW-qWMZKICPjQbIchoC-ZnGuvzFwSZy1CVgU3qATY_dIDD4YhKs9nVoDWVJ4BJ7Q/s1600/mad+men+704+5.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX3N4molnFEAsaZqBQVrFLXVBgi57B8s0t8aWXvxfIxzXjMzgoXPUKYIfKQL7sYa7b-wMh2a3w92ATW-qWMZKICPjQbIchoC-ZnGuvzFwSZy1CVgU3qATY_dIDD4YhKs9nVoDWVJ4BJ7Q/s1600/mad+men+704+5.png" height="448" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houseofplay.tv/" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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The final minutes of the episode made me give a cheer. It's so on! And the Partners had better watch themselves because Don Draper is back and he's about to kick some major ass and take some names! (I'm really hoping that the first one will be Lou's! I really hate that guy!)<br />
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PS - If you didn't catch all the <i>2001</i> references in this episode (<i>Monolith</i>), you'll definitely want to give this it another viewing. It was like an hour-long omage to Kubrick. It was so brilliantly and seamlessly done, that it never, in any way took away from the storyline. Oh, <i>Mad Men</i>, how are you this good?!?<br />
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<i>Wishing you a fabulous Episode 5!</i><br />
<i>XOXO!!</i>Melinda Djemanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853970999477760060noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1770901992361094524.post-22961154847794662742014-05-06T22:38:00.000-07:002014-05-06T22:38:40.897-07:00Vino Love - Orin Swift's Palermo, 2012Good Evening, Kittens! And Happy Tuesday?<br />
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I woke up this morning CONVINCED it was Friday. Imagine the crushing blow when I realized that it was only Tuesday!! Oh the injustice!<br />
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Today was actually a good day at work - busy, but not too crazy. I may not have been as productive as I would have liked, but I got a lot done and the day flew by. Regardless of how things turned out, at the end of the day, it was still Tuesday when I wanted it to be Friday. What to do to boost morale? A good glass of wine couldn't hurt.<br />
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A few weeks ago, I was lucky enough to attend two <a href="http://thevintageproject.blogspot.com/2014/03/orin-swift-birthday-wine-tasting.html" target="_blank">Orin Swift tastings</a> in two weeks. (It was a good time to be me!) If you're new to these parts or you haven't been paying much attention, I will reiterate that Orin Swift is one of my favorite labels. And they have some of the best looking labels too!<br />
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The wine that I chose for this evening just happens to have one of the most amazing labels I've ever seen! Dave Phinney (the genius behind Orin Swift) is, like me, a minimalist. A minimalist with a love of the macabre. Arguably the best example of that is Palermo's label. The town of Palermo in Sicily is home to the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Catacombe_dei_Cappuccini" target="_blank">Catacombe dei Cappuccini</a>. These burial catacombs are located under the Capuchin monastery. When the monastery outgrew its cemetery, they began to excavate these crypts and interred the first friar, Silverstro of Gubbio, in 1599. Originally intended only for the brothers of the monastery, being interred here became a symbol of status. <br />
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Whether part of the clergy or just someone with a little money to spend, the remains that have lain in these catacombs for centuries can be absolutely stunning. And it was <a href="http://ngm.nationalgeographic.com/2009/02/sicily-crypts/musi-photography" target="_blank">Vincent J. Musi's photograph for National Geographic</a> that caught Dave Phinney's attention. This incredible photograph of the remains of a Palermo priest is so beautiful that it could very well have been a painting. The image resonated so deeply with Phinney that he chose to use it for a blend that he named Palermo. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.californiahomedesign.com/blog/2013/10/03/behind-edgy-look-orin-swift-wines" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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The wine in the bottles adorned with the image above is just as impressive as the label itself. In true Orin Swift fashion, this wine is an amazing blend, in this instance it is Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc. The blend is 15.5% alcohol by volume, so it's a big fruit-forward wine. A DELICIOUS fruit-forward wine! With aromas of currant and coffee, the notes of berries and chocolate linger on the palate and make your taste buds incredibly grateful to be included as part of this experience. No joke, every aspect of the experience is life affirming. Having to deal with the doldrums of day-to-day responsibilities can wear you down, but this wine will pick you right back up! It's a respite in a glass! And, from personal experience, will make the best out of a Tuesday that truly should have been a Friday!<br />
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<i>Salud, Kittens!</i><br />
<i>XOXO!!</i>Melinda Djemanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853970999477760060noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1770901992361094524.post-30062281304409448212014-05-04T20:36:00.001-07:002014-05-04T20:36:13.361-07:00Mad Men Cocktail Hour - The GreyhoundHello and Happy Sunday My Lovelies!<br />
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I know this post is incredibly late, so I'm going to keep it simple. Sound good? Good.<br />
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While Bridget and I are incredibly happy that <i>Mad Men</i> is finally back so that we can get back to our weekly Mad Men Cocktail Hours and Viewing Parties, we've had to modify slightly this season. Bridget has to get up very early for work, and since AMC does not offer me an East Coast feed, starting at 10:00 simply isn't feasible. Which means, we're On Demanding it on Monday nights. It also means I try to steer clear of any possible spoilers on Mondays...let me tell you, sometimes that's not an easy task!<br />
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So last week, I was browsing through the cocktail options on the Mad Men site and the Greyhound jumped out at me (see what I did there?!?). I decided that simple was good and that a highball was the way to go. Not a <a href="http://thevintageproject.blogspot.com/2013/05/mad-men-cocktail-hour-highball.html" target="_blank">Highball</a>, but a highball - a designation of drinks which are made with a spirit and a mixer. Simple, tasty, what's not to love? For some reason, while I knew what a Greyhound was, up until last Monday, I'd never had one. And let me tell you, now that I've had one, there are more than a few more Greyhounds in my future!<br />
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Greyhounds are simple. Grapefruit juice and vodka over ice (though there are some people who use gin and I can't find that that combination is called by any other name, which is super odd because...) if you choose to salt the rim of the glass, it is called a Salty Dog. So, a new name with the addition of sprucing up your stemware, but no new name if you use different ingredients. Makes absolutely NO sense. Since evidently we can add whatever we want to it and still have it be a Greyhound, we decided to add a little color for the photo by adding a maraschino cherry. I'm guessing it is because the drink is so simple, that there isn't really much history to find. The only thing I could find was that the Greyhound was first published in the Savoy Cocktail Book dating back to the 1930's. The book was written by the barman at the American Bar at the Savoy Hotel in London, who used many original recipes. It's quite possible it is here that this refreshing little gem got its start.<br />
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Now that we've wet our whistle, let's get to the evening's entertainment. <i>Mad Men</i>. There was no post for the second episode because we failed to try a new cocktail (I'm ashamed of us too). And the episode was completely uneventful. That REALLY got me mad. How can you only give us a half a season and then give us a whole episode where really nothing happens??? Why Matthew Weiner, why? Episode 3, well, that made up for the debacle that was the previous episode and has gotten me really excited. Things are starting to happen. Big things! <br />
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Don gets a call from Megan's agent who asks Don to talk some sense into her and calm her down. She's lost much of her confidence and has been doing things that could jeopardize her career. So Don flies out and surprises her. The joy of the surprise is short lived once Megan realizes that he's talked to her agent and Don tells her to "stop acting like a lunatic." The argument quickly escalates to his infidelities, which he denies, but he tells her about being placed on leave and tells her that he's cut back on the drinking. "So with a clear head you got up every day and decided that you didn't want to be with me. This is how it ends." And she sends him home.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://blogs.amctv.com/mad-men/photo-galleries/mad-men-season-7-episode-photos/#/22" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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While I personally think it's about time, Don goes back to New York and realizes that he does not want that to happen. Megan, on the other hand, takes his call and his apology, but does not want him to visit and does not tell him that she loves him after he tells her. Not sure where this leaves them exactly, but not in a great place to be sure.<br />
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We hadn't seen much of Betty until this episode and she is still trying to prove that she is a good mother and volunteers to be a chaperon on Bobby's school field trip. It's pretty comical since they go to a farm, but my favorite part is when you see the old Betty surface. They sit to have lunch and Betty goes to wash her hands. When she gets back, she finds that Bobby has finished his sandwich and has given hers to a girl who forgot her lunch. All the girl had was candy which she gave Bobby and because she wanted to a bitch, Betty forced Bobby to eat all the candy. Later, she cries to Henry that she's a terrible mother and her children don't love her. True and true.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://blogs.amctv.com/mad-men/photo-galleries/mad-men-season-7-episode-photos/#/24" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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As with the other episodes this season, there is drama at SC&P and I want to defenestrate Lou. Such a waste of space as Creative Director and really a terrible person! Peggy may not be a saint, but it seems that he's trying to make things as difficult for her as possible...and mostly at the cost of making really terrible decisions with the campaigns. The drama escalates when Roger tells Don to come back to work but neglects to mention it to anyone else. Don gets to the office and no one is expecting him and no one seems to want him there. I felt absolutely terrible for Don because everyone was just being a jackass. This man and his ideas built the company and now everyone treats him like a leper. Really? Are people worried about their own jobs if Don returns (Lou DEFINITELY should be)? Maybe. But that still doesn't excuse their behavior.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://blogs.amctv.com/mad-men/photo-galleries/mad-men-season-7-episode-photos/#/27" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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The two biggest surprises were Joan and Peggy who were adamant about not wanting Don to return. Obviously Cutler and Burt Cooper weren't big surprises, but Joan and Peggy? Just what has happened since Don's been gone that turned these characters who were so loyal for the last six seasons against him?? In the end, the partners offered Don the opportunity to come back. With a few RIDICULOUS stipulations. He will no longer be allowed to be alone with clients, he will not be allowed to go off a pre-approved script in meetings, there will be no drinking in the office, and will be reporting to Lou. WHAT!!? If he didn't accept the offer or if he didn't comply with the stipulations, he would be terminated and forfeit all his shares. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://blogs.amctv.com/mad-men/photo-galleries/mad-men-season-7-episode-photos/#/29" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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I was absolutely floored when he agreed to the terms! Does he feel a loyalty to this company that he helped build even after all this? Does he want an excuse to not consider firms in L.A.? Or does he have a plan that makes such a ridiculous agreement simply a means to an end? I'm not sure what's going to happen, but I know it will be good!<br />
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Looking forward to the fourth episode! If you are watching tonight, PLEASE don't spoil it for me!<br />
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<i>Hoping you're as optimistic about this season as I am!</i><br />
<i>XOXO!!</i>Melinda Djemanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853970999477760060noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1770901992361094524.post-1716864279079187402014-05-04T11:39:00.001-07:002014-05-04T17:56:27.181-07:00The Cinematic Experience - Sabrina<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<h2>
Sabrina, 1954</h2>
Hello Darlings and Happy May!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AOZuxReeNTk" target="_blank">watch the trailer</a></td></tr>
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While it is technically over, my <a href="http://thevintageproject.blogspot.com/2014/04/happy-audrey-april.html" target="_blank">Audrey April</a> project went swimmingly and I had a marvelous time! I'm happy that it will last a bit longer as I finish the posts for it, I'm hoping you are as well! The second Audrey Hepburn film I chose, unbeknownst to me, was also the second film that she made! What are the odds? Seriously, while it would have been really cute to chose her first film as the first film I watched and then her second as my second, this worked its way out without any premeditation from me! Also something that happened without my doing was this film's addition to the <a href="http://www.loc.gov/film/registry_titles.php" target="_blank">Library of Congress' National Film Registry</a> in 2002. Just as Hepburn's first Film, <i><a href="http://thevintageproject.blogspot.com/2014/04/the-cinematic-experience-roman-holiday.html" target="_blank">Roman Holiday</a></i> was added to this very important list, her second was as well - it seems that she was a bonafide star from the get-go!<br />
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In this classic romantic comedy, we have a love triangle and a predictable plot where one character pretends to get involved with another for a somewhat dubious reason, only to find their feelings develop and end up truly falling in love. We've seen it so many times before and we will see it many times again, but this film truly does it right!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.doctormacro.com/movie%20star%20pages/Hepburn,%20Audrey-Annex3.htm" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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The film stars Audrey Hepburn as Sabrina Fairchild, the daughter of the chauffeur to one of the wealthiest families in New York, the Larrabees. The film opens on the night of the annual Larrabee party. "It never rained on the Larrabee party, the Larrabees wouldn't have stood for it." Sabrina has been living in the apartment above the garage with her father since she was a child. Mr. and Mrs. Larrabee have two sons - Linus, played by Humphrey Bogart was voted the man most likely to "leave his alma mater $50 million", and David, played by William Holden, who "went through several of the best eastern colleges for short periods of time and several marriages for even shorter periods of time." Translation - David is a definite play boy...and kind of a man-whore.<br />
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Linus and David could not be any more different. While Linus is a serious businessman, David has not a care in the world. Currently, he plays semi-professional polo, although we have no proof of that. The only thing we do have proof of is that he likes the ladies. On the night of the party, he is dancing with a vapid, irritating woman who does nothing but giggle. Sabrina watches the party from her vantage point in a tree (obviously 'the help' is not invited) and tells her father "I hate girls who giggle all the time." He responds with, "You hate every girl that David looks at." And David is probably the only person who is unaware that Sabrina has been in love with him for years.<br />
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Sabrina is scheduled to go Paris in the morning, but she is so distraught after watching David play out his tried and true seduction routine with Giggle Girl, that she closes herself up in the garage and starts all eight cars parked inside. Linus hears all the commotion and, unknowingly, puts an end to her plan to end her life. And she goes to Paris. Sabrina's father sends her to culinary school, but the added bonus is to get her away from David in hopes that out of sight truly is out of mind so that she can move on.<br />
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Though it is short, one of my favorite parts of the film is when the instructor tells the class that they should execute the eggs quickly, "like with the guillotine. Tzack!"<br />
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While in Paris, Sabrina sends letters back home and it is clear that the distance has not done much to put an end to her feelings for David. In her cooking class, she befriends an older man who notices her undercooked soufflé. "Your mind has been elsewhere...A woman happy in love, she burns the soufflé. A woman unhappy in love, she forgets to turn on the oven."<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://cookingwiththemovies.blogspot.com/2010/07/sabrina.html" target="_blank">photo credit</a><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">It is also this man who gives Sabrina some advice. He tells her, "You need to stop looking like a horse." So she cuts off her ponytail. Which established that Audrey Hepburn does a Hollywood makeover like no one else! After two years in Paris, Sabrina has a new hairdo, a new wardrobe, a new outlook on life, a newfound confidence, and a new poodle named David.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">She returns home and is waiting for her father at the train station when David drives by, spots her, and turns the car around. It does not take long for us to realize that David has absolutely no idea who Sabrina is, and she has quite a fun time keeping her identity from him. It is during this ride back to the house that David 'falls in love with her.' Right. We all know what this guy is thinking, but Sabrina eats it up like a starving woman at a buffet. Though it's a bit hard to blame her...she is finally getting the response from him that she's been aching for for years. He even invites her to the annual Larrabee party that evening.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.gaiahealthblog.com/dinner-and-a-movie-sabrina/" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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While Sabrina was away, David had been seeing a woman named Elizabeth. Elizabeth is the daughter of a plastics manufacturer and, as Linus is trying to put together a merger, he is pushing for a wedding. So much so, that he places an engagement announcement in the paper. Understandably David is upset and marches into Linus' office to confront him. <br />
"I'm supposed to be offered up as a human sacrifice on the alter of industrial progress, is that it?"<br />
"You make it sound so vulgar, David, as if the son of the hot dog dynasty were being offered in marriage to the daughter of the mustard king. Surely you don't object to Elizabeth just because her father happens to have $20 million? That's very narrow-minded of you."<br />
David asks Linus why HE doesn't marry Elizabeth and asks, "You want to die an old maid?"<br />
"I was just thinking if I were ever to get married, I'd have to take a Dictaphone, two secretaries, and four corporation counselors along on the Honeymoon. I'd be unfaithful to my wife every night of my life with vice presidents, boards of directors, slide rule accountants...THIS is my home. No wife would ever understand it."<br />
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So the engagement stands. And when David sees Sabrina in the now iconic white and black Givenchy dress at the party that evening, he spills a drink on his fiancé to buy some alone time with Sabrina. While they are dancing cheek to cheek, he murmurs to her, "Sabrina, Sabrina, where have you been all my life?" To which she responds, "Right over the garage." in classic Audrey fashion.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_fZEq4rFrLsjtRpx4AgvrubU1KHHzluulczj1fnyF3wZay49GE1woiXYEMtfcZEaH_eDVc1ADb3ni_YrwjWRbd-DL0pcEKFU4RbZl2jq4MpZhLhiLzSuUASUpQqsX8H7HU6sx6CbDnIE/s1600/sabrina+4.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_fZEq4rFrLsjtRpx4AgvrubU1KHHzluulczj1fnyF3wZay49GE1woiXYEMtfcZEaH_eDVc1ADb3ni_YrwjWRbd-DL0pcEKFU4RbZl2jq4MpZhLhiLzSuUASUpQqsX8H7HU6sx6CbDnIE/s1600/sabrina+4.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://mrsrobertsdolls.com/2014/02/21/poppy-parker-and-the-cinema-poppy-parker-as-sabrina/" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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David's father gets very upset when he learns that David wants to call off the engagement to Elizabeth. "I'm gelling you Linus, the boy should be thrown out of the family! I'm not saying that all Larrabees have been saints, there was a Thomas Larrabee that was hung for piracy and there was a Benjamin Larrabee who was a slave trader and there was a Joshua Larrabee who was shot in Indiana while attempting to rob a train, but there never was a Larrabee who behaved as David Larrabee has behaved here tonight!" David was planning on pulling the whole seduction routine that he used on Giggle Girl on Sabrina. This routine involved tucking one champagne flute in each of his back pockets, grabbing a bottle of bubbly, and sneaking away from the party out to the tennis court. Linus is fully aware of this game and, in all the commotion with their father, Linus gets David to sit down which breaks the glasses and embeds his backside with hundreds of shards of glass. <br />
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Pretending to be on David's side, Linus takes it upon himself to keep Sabrina occupied while David is recuperating from his injuries. His goal is to flirt shamelessly with her, get her to fall for him, and prove that Sabrina isn't really in love with David so that he will go through with his wedding to Elizabeth. Linus establishes that he is aware of how much older he is than she when he takes a look in the mirror after putting on a college sweater and says, "Look at me, Joe College with a touch of arthritis!" On the first day of 'keeping her entertained,' he takes her sailing. And that is the first time that they share a connection and she starts to crack through his tough outer shell. This young woman is definitely NOT what Linus expected!<br />
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A few days later, they go for a drive and this drive is very different from when David brought Sabrina home from the train station. This one is between two people who are trying to feel each other out and who are actually connecting rather than the shameless flirting of two people who only appreciate the way the other one looks. There's a sadness but a playfulness to this drive, and as much as Linus thinks he's playing a part, the fact that he is softening under her innocent, genuine charm is undeniable.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.bogieonline.com/sabrina.htm" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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Not only does Linus try to deny the feelings he's developed for Sabrina, but she is fighting them as well. Do they give into temptation? Does she go running back into David's arms once he's all healed up? If you've never seen this movie, you will need to watch and find out - you will be left guessing until the VERY end!<br />
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A FEW TIDBITS OF TRIVIA:<br />
-While Cary Grant passed on the part of Joe Bradley in <i><a href="http://thevintageproject.blogspot.com/2014/04/the-cinematic-experience-roman-holiday.html" target="_blank">Roman Holiday</a> </i>because he felt he was too old to play opposite Audrey Hepburn, he accepted the part of Linus, but dropped out only a week prior to shooting.<br />
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-Humphrey Bogart was so unhappy with his decision to take this part that was so unlike the roles he'd been taking that he behaved very badly towards Billy Wilder, the director, and to Audrey Hepburn, who he said was too inexperienced. Years later, apologized to Wilder for it.<br />
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-Audrey Hepburn and William Holden fell in love during the filming. It was rumored that Hepburn broke it off after learning that Holden could not have children.<br />
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-Billy Wilder had already decided on his next project, <i>The Seven Year Itch</i>, which was mentioned twice in this film.<br />
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-Edith Head designed Audrey Hepburn's costumes for the scenes prior to going to Paris. Givenchy designed the ones she wore after she returned.<br />
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-Audrey Hepburn personally called Hubert de Givenchy to ask him to design the clothing for this film. He only took the call because he believed it was Katharine Hepburn, but Audrey charmed him into helping her. <i>Sabrina</i> was the beginning of a very long relationship between the two.<br />
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-The film was nominated for six Academy Awards - Audrey Hepburn for Best Actress, Billy Wilder for Best Director, and Edith Head for Best Costume Design Black and White. It was also nominated for Best Screenplay, Best Cinematography, and Best Art Direction/Set Direction. Only Edith Head won and although she was not responsible for all the costumes, she accepted the award.<br />
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We have one more movie for Audrey April, I hope you're excited!!<br />
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<i>Haven't seen this film? You may want to remedy that. And soon! Happy Viewing Darlings!</i><br />
<i>XOXO!!</i>Melinda Djemanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853970999477760060noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1770901992361094524.post-88108718874057208282014-04-27T10:45:00.000-07:002014-04-27T10:45:41.589-07:00Eating Clean - Blueberry Banana Spinach PancakesHappy Sunday (Brunch Day), Kittens!<br />
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For a while now, I've been collecting some really fabulous Brunch recipes. While there are many wonderful things about living alone, one of the drawbacks is pancakes. Pretty much any recipe will leave you with 10 or 15 pancakes (and I'm certainly not about to cut the recipe in half and go to a bunch of trouble for 5 pancakes), so I've been trying to host more Brunches at home so that I can try some of the recipes that I've found and have help eating the yield. <br />
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A few weeks ago, I planned a morning of yoga and Brunch for my friend Bridget and myself. And it was fabulous! After a lot of stretching and sweating and cursing and somewhat inappropriate groaning (we were working places we didn't even know we had), our relaxed, euphoric selves popped a bottle of bubbly and started making the green pancakes that I've been eyeing for a while.<br />
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Fascinated by the idea of a green pancake? You should be! I start most days with green smoothies, so I know that the mild flavor of spinach can easily be masked by other ingredients. I almost thought about this pancake recipe as a green smoothie in fluffy, solid form and was intrigued! These little babies were so good and I wanted to share the recipe that I found at <a href="http://www.fitsugar.com/Blueberry-Banana-Spinach-Pancakes-32081497" target="_blank">FitSugar </a> with you. I deviated from the original recipe slightly (the next time I make them, I'll probably even add more blueberries) and decided to pass on the banana cream sauce from the original recipe as I'm more of a maple syrup kinda girl myself, but if you decide to try these tasty little beauties, do whatever feels right to you.<br />
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INGREDIENTS:<br />
-1 cup organic raw baby spinach, tightly packed<br />
-1/2 cup organic blueberries<br />
-1 large (very ripe) banana<br />
-1 cup vanilla almond milk<br />
-1 tablespoon pure maple syrup (I might have used a bit more if I'm being honest)<br />
-1 egg<br />
-1 1/4 cups whole wheat flour<br />
-2 teaspoons baking powder<br />
-1/2 teaspoon salt<br />
-1/2 teaspoon cinnamon<br />
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(I've been eating as clean as possible and incorporate a lot of organic foods for a while now. While you can make the choice to go that route or not for yourself, the only non-organic ingredients I used in the pancakes were the banana, baking powder, and salt.)<br />
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1. Put the spinach, banana, blueberries, almond milk, and syrup in a blender and puree.<br />
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2. Pour the mixture into a medium bowl and stir in the egg.<br />
3. In a small bowl, combine the dry ingredients and add to the wet mixture a little bit at a time. (Or you can be a rebel and simply mix in the dry ingredients without combining them beforehand!)<br />
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4. Place a skillet over medium heat and spray lightly with cooking spray.<br />
5. Drop 1/4 cup full of batter per pancake onto the skillet and cook as you would a normal pancake (until it starts to bubble and then flip).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhB5gEhb-Yz15Zx1B0x54xr6iC9q18tDHBJ3MUsiYXu-0SAtdWzqpiCWWMoa6IKj6ysnvA8rM5XwVZYIVF0acZg7Y3e7WGbVI6fVhKAshGHduEo2l9jj9GBFTuF6uwS4T2JAreFm0XXOo/s1600/DSC_2450.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhB5gEhb-Yz15Zx1B0x54xr6iC9q18tDHBJ3MUsiYXu-0SAtdWzqpiCWWMoa6IKj6ysnvA8rM5XwVZYIVF0acZg7Y3e7WGbVI6fVhKAshGHduEo2l9jj9GBFTuF6uwS4T2JAreFm0XXOo/s1600/DSC_2450.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
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6. Makes approximately 12 pancakes.<br />
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We had a fabulous Brunch with coffee, beautiful mimosas, cheesy scrambled eggs, our fantastic green pancakes, and some fruit! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi00cX_sGSNiR1dKPaD_ji5EL8UGPFBFTmB1KdnhbNK8rqVKyVrcOzy-T1DS-A4rR4didjKAIPLHoWIOHZZGH_HzH15SXRaDXRLZiCdt9rXx8ov_S8i_kzbbaHyFVoeIuvNyXqVDiyTaxU/s1600/DSC_2452.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi00cX_sGSNiR1dKPaD_ji5EL8UGPFBFTmB1KdnhbNK8rqVKyVrcOzy-T1DS-A4rR4didjKAIPLHoWIOHZZGH_HzH15SXRaDXRLZiCdt9rXx8ov_S8i_kzbbaHyFVoeIuvNyXqVDiyTaxU/s1600/DSC_2452.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyRF8AHHJC52YJZTcjiPglbO5XXwzlqW9hueTZiZ27In4wdmpj4TyuDiVUgq39QASp83YZk69xgOKrwm02po2eZcfNhxTWIrVVgEjXKrsVxAlXW83TqnQyD96peu7eXwCFtu1aImFB3zU/s1600/DSC_2453.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyRF8AHHJC52YJZTcjiPglbO5XXwzlqW9hueTZiZ27In4wdmpj4TyuDiVUgq39QASp83YZk69xgOKrwm02po2eZcfNhxTWIrVVgEjXKrsVxAlXW83TqnQyD96peu7eXwCFtu1aImFB3zU/s1600/DSC_2453.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a>The pancakes taste a lot like banana bread, so if that sounds appealing, perhaps these super healthy little green babies are for you! I'm pretty sure that you won't have as fabulous a pancake helper as I did, but you know, Bridget can't come to EVERYONE'S Brunch. So, you're going to have to find your own helpful friends.<br />
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If you're looking for a new pancake to try, you may want to consider this one. I highly recommend having these with a few mimosas after some really amazing yoga. It's a fabulous way to spend a Sunday morning! <br />
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<i>Namaste, Kittens!</i><br />
<i>XOXO!!</i>Melinda Djemanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853970999477760060noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1770901992361094524.post-89805621286956698312014-04-26T11:21:00.001-07:002014-04-26T11:21:19.847-07:00The Cinematic Experience - Roman Holiday<h2>
Roman Holiday, 1953</h2>
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Oh hello Darlings, it's nice to see you again!</div>
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When I first declared that April was to be <a href="http://thevintageproject.blogspot.com/2014/04/happy-audrey-april.html" target="_blank">Audrey April</a>, I knew that the first movie I would watch would be <i>Roman Holiday</i>. Little did I know how perfect that was...this was the first studio film that Audrey Hepburn was in! So, if you ask me, it's a pretty great place to start. In 1999, <i>Roman Holiday</i> was also added to the <a href="http://www.loc.gov/film/registry_titles.php" target="_blank">Library of Congress' National Film Registry</a> and holds the 59th slot on AMC's list of the <a href="http://movies.amctv.com/movie-guide/tim-dirks-top-100" target="_blank">100 Greatest Movies of All Time</a>. It's not hard to see why!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9GzCG6lpFUw" target="_blank">watch the trailer</a></td></tr>
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If you've never seen this film, I'm pretty sure you'll love it. I most certainly did! <br />
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The film opens with Princess Ann, played by Audrey Hepburn, who is from an unidentified European country. Over and over they refer to 'her country' or 'her kingdom,' but which European nation she presides over remains a mystery throughout the film. Whichever one it is, it is keeping her busy on an extensive European tour. Princess Ann's itinerary is so jam-packed that even the viewer gets tired. She makes one personal appearance after another, giving interviews, and attending balls thrown in her honor. She is sublimely unhappy and it's not difficult to see why.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.black-and-white-movies.com/roman-holiday.html" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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The pressure finally becomes too great for Princess Ann to bear as she is getting ready for bed while in Rome. She can hear music from her window, sees carefree people dancing just outside the palace walls, and has a breakdown - one that no one can fault her for. The doctor is called and administers a sedative which she is told will take a little time to work. Not being bothered at all by this 'ineffective' sedative, as soon as everyone leaves her room, she quickly gets dressed and sneaks out. It does not take much time for the sedative to take effect and she falls asleep on a public bench. On his way home from a poker game, Joe Bradley, played by Gregory Peck, happens upon her and, believing that she is drunk, ends up taking her back to his apartment when it is obvious that she is unable to tell the taxi driver where she lives. They're pretty sure she DOESN'T live at the Colosseum!<br />
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Audrey Hepburn is so endearing and effortlessly funny when they return to Joe's small studio apartment. It quickly becomes even more evident just how out of her element she is. And in, my opinion, this scene has the best lines! <br />
Ann: "Is this the elevator?"<br />
Joe: "This is my room!"<br />
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She is asleep on her feet and asks Joe, "Can I have a silk nightgown with rosebuds on it?" <br />
"I'm afraid you'll have to rough it tonight. In these."<br />
"PAJAMAS!?!"<br />
"Sorry honey, but I haven't worn a nightgown in years."<br />
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Once she has her sleep attire, Joe is about to leave and she slips back into princess mode and tells him, "You have my permission to withdraw." I may have to start using that line myself...<br />
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After all the fun from the night before, Joe oversleeps, leaves 'Anya Smith' in his studio, and rushes to the office. We learn that he is an American reporter for Rome's <i>Daily American</i> and was supposed to interview Princess Ann that morning. In the wake of her disappearance, the Royal Family had released the statement that she has fallen ill. Unfortunately, Joe is unaware of this fact and tries lying to his boss, telling him that he is just returning from the interview. Once he sees Ann's picture in the paper and realizes who wore his pajamas the night before, he tells his boss that he will be able to get an exclusive interview. <br />
"But tell me, Mr. Bradley, if you are sober, just how you are going to obtain this fantastic interview?"<br />
"I plan to enter her sick room disguised as a thermometer."<br />
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I LOVE the humor of these old films!<br />
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Joe rushes back to his room only to find that Ann is getting ready to leave. He is unable to convince her to stay, so he follows her when she leaves and is surprised when she starts roaming the city, exercising a bit of freedom and anonymity that she most likely had never experienced before, and ends up at a small barber shop. She asks to have her hair chopped off and it ends up looking fabulous! Wouldn't you agree?<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjbYUWe2X0DY8jKQnQKR4-1NFBjZWeFUbd0eOeZZM1NSBotZ2TmCmxX-sucgqb6WthadFVQJArqkvN0HyZUXKkDkfl6j7Gwr7X7ihua0dlH2I6pDEyHXRmN0gb4zH_EBsPTU_4oE6NVPY/s1600/roman+holiday+haircut.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjbYUWe2X0DY8jKQnQKR4-1NFBjZWeFUbd0eOeZZM1NSBotZ2TmCmxX-sucgqb6WthadFVQJArqkvN0HyZUXKkDkfl6j7Gwr7X7ihua0dlH2I6pDEyHXRmN0gb4zH_EBsPTU_4oE6NVPY/s1600/roman+holiday+haircut.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.chud.com/18081/dvd-review-roman-holiday-centennial-collection/" target="_blank">photo credit</a><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">After Ann's transformation, Joe just 'happens' to run into her on the Spanish Steps and, in the interest of getting his story, he proposes that they spend the day doing whatever she wants to do, stating that "Today will be a holiday." First stop? A sidewalk cafe where she has a glass of champagne. On the sly, Joe calls a photographer friend of his, Irving, brilliantly played by Eddie Albert, so that he can get photographs for the story. </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://critics-associated.com/reviews/roman-holiday-60th-anniversary-rerelease/" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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After leaving the café, they embark on the famous Vespa tour of Rome!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://sipyourstyle.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/roman-holiday-PDVD_010-.jpg" target="_blank">photo credit</a><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">One of the stops on the Vespa tour, is the iconic <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bocca_della_Verit%C3%A0" target="_blank">Mouth of Truth</a> which, legend has it, will bite off the hand of someone who tells a lie. The fact that both characters are lying about who they are (Ann neglects to tell Joe that she is a princess and he neglects to tell her that he is a reporter) makes for an entertaining scene. Little secret? Gregory Peck's part of the scene was completely improvised, so Audrey Hepburn's reaction is real!</span></div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/6af1dAc9rXo?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">After a day of fun, our three characters go down to the docks for some dancing. The chemistry between Joe and Ann has been brewing all day, but is never as strong as in this scene. And then chaos ensues! This scene is fun and funny and, much like the rest of the film, it's nearly impossible NOT to get caught up in all the excitement! </span></div>
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Like Cinderella, Princess Ann must go home at the end of the night, her fairy tale (her day of freedom) is over. It's heartbreaking for both characters and the audience wants so badly for her to change her mind. The next day, the princess' press conference is rescheduled and Joe and Irving stand right up front. Now that everyone's real identities are out in the open, surely there is the chance that Ann will chose a life of love and adventure over her stifling life of privilege and duty. <br />
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What does she chose? If you haven't seen this film, I'm not about to give it away!<br />
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A FEW TIDBITS OF TRIVIA:<br />
-The part of Joe Bradley was originally written for Carey Grant, but he felt that he was too old to play Audrey Hepburn's love interest.<br />
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-The part of Princess Ann was originally written for Elizabeth Taylor, but she was not available. Which was lucky for Hepburn, since this film launched her career.<br />
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-Gregory Peck originally had solo star billing, but partway through filming, he insisted her name appear above the film title, predicting that she was going to win an Oscar.<br />
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-The film was nominated for 10 Academy Awards, but only won three - Best Actress for Audrey Hepburn, Best Black & White Costume Design for Edith Head, and Best Writing for Ian McLellan Hunter.<br />
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-In 1992, The Academy corrected their records to finally credit Dalton Trumbo for the screenplay. Dalton Trumbo was blacklisted for being part of the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hollywood_Ten#The_Hollywood_Ten" target="_blank">Hollywood Ten</a>, a group of people who were cited for contempt of Congress for refusing to testify before the House Un-American Activities Committee in 1947. He continued to write while being blacklisted and was fronted by Ian McLellan Hunter. Dalton's widow accepted his Oscar in 1993.<br />
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-Frank Capra was originally supposed to direct this film, but refused when he learned that the screenplay was written by Trumbo.<br />
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-<i>Roman Holiday</i> was filmed entirely on location, which was very uncommon for the time. Wilder, the director, insisted on filming in Rome, and this was supposedly the first film to be shot and processed entirely in Italy. Wilder's location budget was so high that they were forced to film in black and white instead of color.<br />
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-In an example of life imitating art, the film was released during the scandal of <a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-99426/Princess-Margaret-love-affair-denied.html" target="_blank">Britain's Princess Margaret who was considering marriage to Peter Townsend</a>, a commoner.<br />
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Have you seen this film? It's essential viewing for Audrey April!<br />
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<i>Happy Viewing, Darlings!</i><br />
<i>XOXO!!</i></div>
Melinda Djemanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853970999477760060noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1770901992361094524.post-87326841483707969992014-04-20T15:21:00.000-07:002014-04-20T15:21:15.954-07:00Mad Men Cocktail Hour - The Old FashionedGood Evening My Lovelies!<br />
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Last Sunday, my beloved <i>Mad Men</i> returned for its seventh and final season. This show got its hooks into me early on and never let go, so I'm VERY sad to know that it won't be long until I have to say good bye to it. Last season, my trusty Mad-woman In Crime, Bridget, and I started holding weekly Mad Men Cocktail Hours/viewing parties. Since we had a <a href="http://thevintageproject.blogspot.com/2013/07/mad-men-cocktail-hour-french-75.html" target="_blank">little finale party</a> which was pretty epic (read epic hangovers from the French 75's), we thought it only fitting that we had another for the season premiere. But without the hangovers.<br />
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And what better way to channel our Don Drapers than with a few Old Fashioneds.<br />
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While doing a little research on the <a href="http://www.amctv.com/shows/mad-men/cocktail-guide/old-fashioned" target="_blank">Old Fashioned</a>, it seems like we've finally found the original cocktail! Imbibing Legend has it that in May of 1806, a man sent an inquiry about the exact definition of the word to <i>The Balance and Columbia Repository</i>. Their published response defined a cocktail as "a stimulating liquor, composed of spirits of any kind, sugar, water, and bitters - it is vulgarly called a <i>bittered sling</i>, and is supposed to be an excellent electioneering potion, inasmuch as it renders the heart stout and bold, at the same time that it fuddles the head." This may be their definition of a cocktail, but it is also that of an Old Fashioned and this publication was definitely not kidding when they say that it fuddles the head! It definitely has the ability to do that and also put some hair on your chest. Proceed with caution!<br />
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Like most drinks, there are many recipes out there. While it's not the most traditional recipe, in my opinion, my sister makes the best Old Fashioned, using Rye whiskey and simple syrup (instead of muddling sugar with water). She also uses more bitters than I've seen in most recipes. And the result is incredibly delicious! Like traditional Old Fashioneds, we also use over-sized ice cubes. So much fun!!<br />
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Since there is no mixer, I find it best to give this cocktail a minute or two and let the ice melt a bit, so that the flavors come together and then you'll see why Don Draper is so fond of them! And to get all dolled up and have an Old Fashioned in a dark smokey bar with Don Draper? That sounds like a phenomenal night!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxu5IwPdoqfs-H_TO9X9qbOsuCeb51VnMATLL21M3_D-Q7xC-XlR4a2E2NtOzlrxKh9cSbdnVu6NTxz4-STsDJtG0FRKDbl7J2TwIjP7vQH2odWZweXHB3kmrdQsBr8i-Iexqc7hifhG8/s1600/mad+men+yourself.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxu5IwPdoqfs-H_TO9X9qbOsuCeb51VnMATLL21M3_D-Q7xC-XlR4a2E2NtOzlrxKh9cSbdnVu6NTxz4-STsDJtG0FRKDbl7J2TwIjP7vQH2odWZweXHB3kmrdQsBr8i-Iexqc7hifhG8/s1600/mad+men+yourself.jpg" height="400" width="640" /></a></div>
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So now, how about we talk about the premiere episode, shall we?<br />
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The opening sequence with Don coming out to visit Megan, who is now living in L.A.? Stunning. The car, Megan's dress, the entire look was simply gorgeous!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmWX5-DF9-EAVhwJlqFxuLkp4Tm5FFQzqvRHo_3IM5XD38PfR2dJtQQ1-F70sl6igrQj5SUHT5EByblh8pZWQ6JtLz1ThXhAxJr8RluJACA_yRBrmU3SbgiQTtZHNRqo8r-5gT5OX4ybM/s1600/mad+men+701+a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmWX5-DF9-EAVhwJlqFxuLkp4Tm5FFQzqvRHo_3IM5XD38PfR2dJtQQ1-F70sl6igrQj5SUHT5EByblh8pZWQ6JtLz1ThXhAxJr8RluJACA_yRBrmU3SbgiQTtZHNRqo8r-5gT5OX4ybM/s1600/mad+men+701+a.jpg" height="370" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-2604726/Mad-Men-season-premiere-gets-WORST-ratings-2008-pulling-million-viewers-last.html" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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A couple this beautiful should be illegal.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTVnmraQCFFLwg6SURlE33VpHF9-5xphmRU0tEBxu9rWLRVNgWN5VCPMpRVyFK58NI_-HqtfaVRO4HQ1edj3-IV_ZEVjif_NmiNYHOFS8WuZ8yYZ7gHI1BTzkb3Vr0uX2-QHBn7PjixI4/s1600/mad+men+701+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTVnmraQCFFLwg6SURlE33VpHF9-5xphmRU0tEBxu9rWLRVNgWN5VCPMpRVyFK58NI_-HqtfaVRO4HQ1edj3-IV_ZEVjif_NmiNYHOFS8WuZ8yYZ7gHI1BTzkb3Vr0uX2-QHBn7PjixI4/s1600/mad+men+701+2.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://nypost.com/2014/04/14/10-things-that-made-us-cheer-on-the-mad-men-season-7-premiere/" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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As a little bit of trivia, the filming of this scene at LAX was <a href="http://www.examiner.com/article/mad-men-season-7-filming-halted-by-lax-shooting" target="_blank">shut down after the shooting</a> there last November.<br />
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Another bit of trivia, the restaurant that Megan has her business meeting in is none other than the fabulous Dresden Room, which <a href="http://thevintageproject.blogspot.com/2014/03/iconic-los-angeles-dresden-room.html" target="_blank">we paid a visit to for my birthday</a> just last month. How appropriate was that?<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYksI0EzPu7uMrtjEYYUlmY1TZkLDv_oqGaLpIDLtIH2qEsKr4Sp7e16SxOUmSmVjG2_LD2gCrhO8kYrxZ7-aRfpRDIY1dci92ytHn8GZ09CpBRtCPn7dgZW0wx-GnQj6tjTrbFriC5IE/s1600/madmen-701+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYksI0EzPu7uMrtjEYYUlmY1TZkLDv_oqGaLpIDLtIH2qEsKr4Sp7e16SxOUmSmVjG2_LD2gCrhO8kYrxZ7-aRfpRDIY1dci92ytHn8GZ09CpBRtCPn7dgZW0wx-GnQj6tjTrbFriC5IE/s1600/madmen-701+3.jpg" height="376" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://blogs.amctv.com/mad-men/2014/04/mad-men-season-7-premiere-full-episode-now-available-on-amc-com/" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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While we only have a few episodes to look forward to right now - the last season is being split in two, the second half will be aired in 2015 - I was surprised that the show stuck to its formula of not revealing too much in the first episode. There isn't a lot of room to play and there were SO many things that were left unanswered. First off - ROGER?? What has he gotten himself into now and will this actually be Roger's final downward spiral? I sure hope not, what would we do without his one-liners? But seriously, are six other people REALLY necessary for a good time? I'd rather him dabble with LSD again, that was <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=29st0tW1Ka8" target="_blank">fun to watch</a>!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://incoherent.net/2014/04/mad-men-season-7-episode-1time-zones/" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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The interesting thing about this first episode is how starkly different the two coasts seem to be. Things are dark in New York. Everyone is profoundly unhappy. <br />
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And then there is chipper Pete in L.A. Even his clothing serves as a billboard that he is no longer in New York.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://incoherent.net/2014/04/mad-men-season-7-episode-1time-zones/" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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When he and Don meet for lunch, Pete picks Canter's. I haven't been there in ages, but will need to pay it a visit again soon. Best. Latkes. Ever.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/tv-movies/mad-men-season-7-premiere-notches-lowest-ratings-2008-article-1.1756098" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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This series has been filming all over Los Angeles for the last six seasons and passing the locations off as New York. While places like Musso & Frank and the Biltmore are hardly a stretch, I'm excited to see the places that they will be using in season seven since they no longer need to be surreptitious about where these locations actually are. <br />
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Am I the only one that's super excited for the next episode?<br />
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<i>Until next time, Lovelies!</i><br />
<i>XOXO!!</i>Melinda Djemanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853970999477760060noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1770901992361094524.post-29627322559042429202014-04-18T16:55:00.000-07:002014-04-19T01:51:55.763-07:00Happy Audrey April!Hello there Darlings!<br />
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A little while ago, I was speaking with my friend Bridget and she offhandedly made a comment that stuck with me. She stated that blondes had Marilyn and brunettes had Audrey. That may not seem like a big or important statement, but it resonated with me. Something as seemingly insignificant as your hair color can determine many things and one of those things seems to be who, and perhaps even what, you feel connected to. Sounds kind of ridiculous, right? But just think of the women you know that are drawn to Marilyn Monroe. Chances are, they're blonde. And those women feel that same draw to Audrey Hepburn, I'll bet money that most of them are brunettes. <br />
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While I have always been more of a Marilyn girl, myself, Audrey holds a great fascination for me. She was always cool and elegant, a little tomboyish while being incredibly feminine. She had this indescribable quality that just drew people to her, something that made her one of a kind.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://strawburry17.com/5-reasons-to-love-audrey-hepburn/" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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Audrey Hepburn landed the number three spot on the lady's side of the American Film Institute's <a href="http://www.afi.com/100years/stars.aspx" target="_blank">Top 50 Greatest Film Legends</a> list . While what made this woman so extraordinary spans far beyond her IMDB page, I realized that the only film I'd seen her in was <i><a href="http://thevintageproject.blogspot.com/2013/02/the-cinematic-experience-02072013.html" target="_blank">Breakfast at Tiffany's</a></i>. So, I thought I would remedy that in April. I've already watched two more and while I haven't put those posts together yet, I thought I'd give you a little teaser so that you have an idea as to what I've got in store for you.<br />
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<i>Perhaps you'll spend the night in with an Audrey film, Darlings, that's my plan!</i><br />
<i>XOXO!!</i>Melinda Djemanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853970999477760060noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1770901992361094524.post-35114451467764458322014-04-13T10:25:00.004-07:002014-04-13T10:25:54.533-07:00Brunch 03.30.2014 - Our Corner Googie Coffee Shop<h2>
Pann's, Westchester</h2>
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Happy Sunday, Lovelies!</div>
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Have you ever found yourself just craving diner food? Some good comfort food? Perhaps after imbibing a bit too much the night before? No? Liar.</div>
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There's no shame in the fact that we all stray from the clean eating program that most of us strive for from time to time. It happens. We're human. And even most health professionals will agree that indulging occasionally is important for keeping yourself sane and on track. So, if you're going to stray, make sure that it's worth it. </div>
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Enter <a href="http://www.panns.com/index.htm" target="_blank">Pann's</a>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwpNkPggFAAHD5kjnjU42RU7eQ2VgJPemLBLiJa6rcX9I-iu8TIvl_ieYgYZ3SpKDh1aiFeIqYQfCN8ytwQABXoLXUTntseB0LQCUZsSsjmRZaimIHKbM1frcLNYc-21RFB-RBE_nW-hM/s1600/DSC_2381.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwpNkPggFAAHD5kjnjU42RU7eQ2VgJPemLBLiJa6rcX9I-iu8TIvl_ieYgYZ3SpKDh1aiFeIqYQfCN8ytwQABXoLXUTntseB0LQCUZsSsjmRZaimIHKbM1frcLNYc-21RFB-RBE_nW-hM/s1600/DSC_2381.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
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Opening its doors in 1958, Pann's has been deemed "one of the last and best of the iconic futuristic coffee shops designed by the prolific firm of Armét & Davis." by the Los Angeles Conservancy. Armét & Davis, an architectural firm that was integral in the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Googie_architecture" target="_blank">Googie</a> movement of the 1950's and 1960's, designed numerous buildings in Southern California. If this style looks a bit familiar, perhaps you're thinking about Johnie's Coffee Shop or the Norm's chain. The Googie coffee shops have been described as "places where George Jetson and Fred Flintstone could meet over a cup of coffee." And how fun is that?</div>
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This style within the more encompassing Mid-Century Modern style is known for its futuristic aspects. Unfortunately, this style is really only still seen in kitschy coffee shops and gas stations which are few and far between. Pann's is still owned by the original Greek immigrant family and in 1993, the second generation owner completely restored the restaurant to its original glory - even going so far as to get the neon sign restored instead of replaced, which goes to show how important preservation is to the family. And that is something that the Los Angeles Conservancy acknowledged with a coveted Conservancy Award.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUP1qUT5UQ_ZgMxADcmjGOVe8arAM8hJmlpPqrI-d1LcdqlpbNqa7t8SkKHR-xewlmwmEPIw9ihbl3tkcH5bxwFPDGgMzWb7OvnzzBLVMQ0e9heyc7R7XU2Xx-pFFu0olTfNQCImfdB_0/s1600/pann's.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUP1qUT5UQ_ZgMxADcmjGOVe8arAM8hJmlpPqrI-d1LcdqlpbNqa7t8SkKHR-xewlmwmEPIw9ihbl3tkcH5bxwFPDGgMzWb7OvnzzBLVMQ0e9heyc7R7XU2Xx-pFFu0olTfNQCImfdB_0/s1600/pann's.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/panns-restaurant-los-angeles?select=3qSsHwUXJOC0DFmAJ0JuAw#nyYCs5DaTN7R8NH5EyQZxA" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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Alright, Googie history lesson? Check. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg_Loh4XhHm-Ue6LsgsannZrTm3f1eBf_GnlmecYAhR-tXajpw5zE3tGUnH4e86CFPNICSSmZTQDLC-L1tiCrLCSfqMqsy_cL_I6YynP4_LY0R3hk1-g5FXX897k-1A6IOuI7ITQt55HQ/s1600/DSC_2359.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg_Loh4XhHm-Ue6LsgsannZrTm3f1eBf_GnlmecYAhR-tXajpw5zE3tGUnH4e86CFPNICSSmZTQDLC-L1tiCrLCSfqMqsy_cL_I6YynP4_LY0R3hk1-g5FXX897k-1A6IOuI7ITQt55HQ/s1600/DSC_2359.JPG" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
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Moving on... Brunch. At a coffee shop? Yes!</div>
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Even if bottomless mimosas weren't being offered, you can never go wrong with All Day Breakfast.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOQMaAT7JqRptK0_7XNeEfblMWzSGH0MtvOffJqz0hj5hESozGMnDevfzYXE8OOCIyjOGzlXTzyPm_qc_CqBckais0TAAW9Om9jyqZsaj2wjBFAkITEd1MGEbuT1O7RMDVIyIEINOM0YE/s1600/DSC_2352.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOQMaAT7JqRptK0_7XNeEfblMWzSGH0MtvOffJqz0hj5hESozGMnDevfzYXE8OOCIyjOGzlXTzyPm_qc_CqBckais0TAAW9Om9jyqZsaj2wjBFAkITEd1MGEbuT1O7RMDVIyIEINOM0YE/s1600/DSC_2352.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
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Especially when you have one or two options to choose from.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip4Wq2yUbf59uxY2ksoU0ztFiX_s6lOwRAigqqK4YaVwc9QsvyFsIE9M57XcsU-5M43so2jShGF27O5hzTUt9WzvDqRwCmHvbJflpTiCZxYWGRlKqkJGIlKFNRdkWUzm5suh9_qDUMB9k/s1600/DSC_2350.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip4Wq2yUbf59uxY2ksoU0ztFiX_s6lOwRAigqqK4YaVwc9QsvyFsIE9M57XcsU-5M43so2jShGF27O5hzTUt9WzvDqRwCmHvbJflpTiCZxYWGRlKqkJGIlKFNRdkWUzm5suh9_qDUMB9k/s1600/DSC_2350.JPG" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
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Bridget and her husband, Mike, have been to Pann's a few times and I have been excited to try it for a while now. I'm not sure why it took me so long to join them, since it is just down the street from the apartment. </div>
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Two reasons this was a fabulous Brunch. We never saw the bottom of our mimosa glasses and these biscuits could be the best I've ever had. Holy Moly, they are AMAZING! Seriously. I can't even talk about it. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2SVmq3DgzGvkeuhShZivO4LCKDysKvMIKUuSJp2Wg64JNCQ80eXJitLxvUjw5DWSK3_qtW-AfaBSvA9xq2AUUrEImdT9ZGhPKlilocvD_Rw-HsVq6ZsZhl_l7Snv0jNqiW2m84MLv7aw/s1600/pann's+biscuit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2SVmq3DgzGvkeuhShZivO4LCKDysKvMIKUuSJp2Wg64JNCQ80eXJitLxvUjw5DWSK3_qtW-AfaBSvA9xq2AUUrEImdT9ZGhPKlilocvD_Rw-HsVq6ZsZhl_l7Snv0jNqiW2m84MLv7aw/s1600/pann's+biscuit.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/panns-restaurant-los-angeles?select=3qSsHwUXJOC0DFmAJ0JuAw#twUZUDnQtJ7ea3FNU1lG1g" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
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In addition to the biscuits, I ordered Crusted Fresh Salmon Patties with grits. So, the patties were great, but I learned that while I LOVE cheese grits, I don't like regular grits. Not at all. Good to know.</div>
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Bridget ordered Uncle Bud's Mississippi Cheese Eggs while Mike had the Country Fried Steak. Both were very happy with their choices.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFEh1Rc1GmVhyphenhyphen0BDa837JSxfCFnJasdogcsObzxq3Q0oQhGq0jAYP01b8CihVwFE3MdmOZ_QxSznQo86Nh2Eic7kqS9lojFaI6dSgDAUPLwK9ceEgtEaFzK-66CdWEQ6NWVQtJ0be7Y9Y/s1600/DSC_2363.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFEh1Rc1GmVhyphenhyphen0BDa837JSxfCFnJasdogcsObzxq3Q0oQhGq0jAYP01b8CihVwFE3MdmOZ_QxSznQo86Nh2Eic7kqS9lojFaI6dSgDAUPLwK9ceEgtEaFzK-66CdWEQ6NWVQtJ0be7Y9Y/s1600/DSC_2363.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
And because we were at a diner, we kind of HAD to order pancakes. I ended up taking them home because they definitely do not skimp on the amount of food they give you, so there was no way we were finishing these. And even hours later, they were absolutely delicious!<br />
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Carbfest? Yes. Were we running the risk of taking a nap at the table? Uh huh. Was it worth it? Absolutely!</div>
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If Pann's breakfast options are any indication, this is the place to go if you're looking for really great diner food at any hour. No question. And the atmosphere? You can't argue that it's super far out!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQnYBDpxChLWDt1QFnks6lQcMWrEKxbOAJ1r2TEP0cxbufUh0HO2hm8wD5H7AuzB8di3662z1l3ncD1IiTDjnYT76XwLmpLKgPXWO2VZq4uxJJOGyZh4rKGxw_td3e1wmyxCBzw-PyY6I/s1600/DSC_2365.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQnYBDpxChLWDt1QFnks6lQcMWrEKxbOAJ1r2TEP0cxbufUh0HO2hm8wD5H7AuzB8di3662z1l3ncD1IiTDjnYT76XwLmpLKgPXWO2VZq4uxJJOGyZh4rKGxw_td3e1wmyxCBzw-PyY6I/s1600/DSC_2365.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
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Or that they have a fantastic lighting concept.<br />
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While this may not be the same diner used in the opening scene in <i>Pulp Fiction </i>as many people claim (that was a second location owned by the family that has since closed called Holly's which was located in Hawthorne), this restaurant is definitely worth a visit! Make sure you get a biscuit. Trust me on this one.<br />
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I have an awesome Brunch planned for a little later, so I'll let you go so that you have some time to consider where you'll be Brunching today. Pann's perhaps?</div>
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<i>XOXO!!</i></div>
Melinda Djemanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853970999477760060noreply@blogger.com0