#spicy artist ~ cocoa

[starlitfunkster]

[LRG]'s giant Kirby OC post

And by giant.. I mean I redesigned most of my Kirby OC's. Two I did back in January, and also adding newcomers. In total, I now have six OC's. Most being puffballs.. one dubiously a puffball, one's apart of the Waddle Dee species, and one is part cat.

This is Sir Adne, one of the newcomers. He is an Ex-GSA knight, and one who's now training both Juniper and Locke. This is because he has orders from his Kingdom that he protects. He also looks after his crush, Princess Flora.

Speaking of Princess Flora, here she is! She loves flowers, her people.. and especially her knight, Sir Adne! Though she seems like the person who wouldn't fight, she'll join in if the situation calls for it!

Locke is a cat-like spirit in a puffball form who lost to Sir Adne. Now they follow him around idolizing him. They also are now training under him. Beware the yarn-bomb! It won't hurt, but you'll be immobilized!

Juniper is a shy, mute Waddle Dee that wears leaves on their head. They treat it like it's hair.. even if it is just a pile of leaves. They befriended Locke and wanted to be as strong as Sir Adne. So they began practicing archery in their spare time.

Cocoa is a child-hood friend of Flora's, and the artist within the Kingdom. She usually has two paint buckets, one filled with ordinary paint... the other has been spiked with all sorts of spices. It's best not to anger her...

Milo was once friends with Sir Adne, back when he used to work with the GSA. Now he's become a warlock and intends on striking his old friend down. But you have to wonder.. why is he doing this? Surely one's behavior wouldn't change over night.. right?

This is what Milo looks like when his eyes are not obscured. They look foggier when he was under that spell cast by Luna...

Luna is a Succubus in disguise as a puffball. As a result, she has no intentions of following through with her desires. Why would she? She prefers instead seducing men with magic and making them fight their friends. As such, she is considered the embodiment of Lust to some. Others think she's just a coward who hides behind strong men.

[cleolinda]

Patchouli in perfumery, feat. Snake Oil (Black Phoenix Alchemy Lab)

In the course of writing up Coco Mademoiselle (which I'll post after this), I realized that I need to stop and discuss patchouli first, because: wtf is going on there, seriously. Sylvaine Delacourte explains,

Patchouli has a woody, earthy, humid, dark smell and evokes a colour between brown and black.

(I find this to be true; I always picture a very dark, dark brown when I smell it, even if nothing else in the fragrance makes me think of a color.)

A camphor note molecule is identified in it, it also has almost a dusty scent. Patchouli can be reminiscent of a cork or an overripe apple, some find it smells like mushrooms, cellars and mould. Many perfumers have told me that they can detect a hint of cocoa in good quality patchouli.

On the other hand, as the Perfume Society describes it, in "So you think you hate… patchouli?":

Amazingly, from those fragile-looking leaves comes a sweet, spicy, smoky, cedar-y scent so powerful it has to be handled with care: patchouli is the most powerful of any plant-derived essence.

May the odds be ever in my favor.

But, the Perfume Society continues,

perfumers wouldn’t be without patchouli, for the richness that it gives to fragrances – and not just those heady Ambrées: patchouli makes its way into many chypre and powdery fragrances, swirling exotically alongside lavender, sandalwood, labdanum and bergamot, clove, clary sage, as well as vetiver. (It’s a little like vetiver, if you close your eyes.) Used alongside rose, it extends and ‘fixes’ rose’s sweetness.

Back to Sylvaine Delacourte: "Patchouli is the most important raw material in perfumery," a statement that really surprised me, but this is the former Artistic Director of Guerlain talking here. She concurs that it "combines beautifully" with woody notes like cedar, sandalwood, and vetiver, adding,

It brings depth and sensuality and is considered by some to be an aphrodisiac, especially when combined with sweet oriental [often called "ambrée" now] notes such as incense, vanilla and cistus. Patchouli can be refreshed by citrus fruits such as bergamot. It is often associated with rose, sometimes with jasmine, a little less with ylang-ylang. Patchouli is also a perfect match for gourmand notes.

Sure enough, Thierry Mugler's Angel (1992) famously combines patchouli and cotton candy (and several fruits) (and caramel) (and chocolate). That's a fragrance I also have on deck to write about; it was a game-changer, no exaggeration, at the time. I had also thought that Angel was considered the first "fruitchouli" (nsfw photo), as such, but apparently that may be... Coco Mademoiselle.

Delacourte also mentions that patchouli is "sensual and charismatic, often replacing mosses in chypre constructions and is essential in oriental compositions." And here comes Coco Mademoiselle again: it's considered a "neo chypre." If you go back to the Mitsouko post I did, you'll see that a classic chypre involves bergamot, oakmoss, and labdanum. As Basenotes user purplebird7 neatly explains, "This creates a sweet/sour/earthy/wet/dry combination of notes that makes chypres so complex. [...] New chypres use vetiver instead for the sour/dry component. They also use patchouli for the earthiness, and substitute other citruses for bergamot, the way Coco Mademoiselle uses orange, and [Chanel's] Chance uses citron."

Now, I haven't told you how the word "patchouli" comes from Tamil (patchai ellai, green leaf), or how Tutankhamun had gallons of patchouli oil in his tomb, and how it was worth its weight in gold, literally, to European traders. Or, for that matter, how it came to France via the paisley shawls, layered with insect-repelling patchouli leaves, that were so loved by Empress Eugénie. I didn't mention that patchouli is still very much associated with the "dirty hippies" of the 1960s, who (it's said; I wasn't there) used it to mask either weed or body odor. And I didn't mention any of this because I wanted to focus on how patchouli is used today—and because the hippie thing is extremely cliché. But maybe that's exactly what I should touch on, because:

I don't like patchouli. I do, in fact, Think I Hate Patchouli. Or I did, rather, before I started working on this post. And it's because of the "dirty" smell. Something that's like a combination of fermented basement lichen and the stoner guy I knew in college who took 40 minute showers but never washed his clothes? But since patchouli's in the base of just about everything these days—I decided that I'm going to have to get past that. Rather than use a moralistic term like "dirty," I've started calling the persistent aura that smells like "mushrooms, cellars and mold" The Funk.

And I've noticed that aged patchouli is a lot smoother; The Funk gets less rambunctious with time, and this may be why aged bottles of Black Phoenix Alchemy Lab's Snake Oil are so prized. For years, I wasn't even sure what was in it; the original description only mentioned "Indonesian oils sugared with vanilla." But once you find out that 80% of the world's patchouli comes from Indonesia—yeah, you can tell it's the primary note of Snake Oil. BPAL actually sells it pre-aged now, and with a more detailed description:

Snake Oil has shed its skin, and is back — now with vintage patchouli and dark, rich, aged vanilla absolute. Snake Oil is our signature scent, our first perfume: deep, rich, earthy notes swirled with vegetal musks, sugared vanilla bean, and dark spices.

A few nights ago, I pulled out a vial I'd gotten several years back. I remember that Snake Oil was really heady when it was fresh: a vortex of incense, spicy vanilla, and The Funk. This time, it was pure patchouli, albeit a mellow and dignified one; on a second try, I realized I needed to swish the molasses-thick oil back and forth until it was at least somewhat blended again. I then got a unified patchouli-vanilla and what I swear was a very strong ylang-ylang and sandalwood (both of which are cultivated in Indonesia, among other places). It's a good combination; the light, golden sandalwood-ylang note was the only thing I liked about Chanel's No. 5 Eau Première. I know it sounds weird (or immature, even) to say "I like Black Phoenix Alchemy Lab more than Chanel," but Snake Oil picked something to do and did it well, and that something was not giving me a headache or smelling like a diaper.

(But notice that I say I like it more rather than it is better. Skin chemistry is a wild—but incredibly important—card here. Ultimately, there might be a critical consensus on something, but you can only experience what your nose can sense, and what duet the skin of the wearer, yours or someone else's nearby, can produce.)

Come to think of it, Chanel's Jacques Polge may have removed the patchouli from the original No. 5; I didn't see it in the notes for the 1986 formulation still used today. I wonder now if that patchouli served as a bridge between elements that's no longer there, and that's why the extra pared-down No. 5 Eau Première seemed disjointed to me. On the other hand, there are people who think the new No. 5 Eau Première is a masterwork unto itself, and there are people who hate the dizzying baby powder/Play-Doh turn Snake Oil can take. So it goes. I actually think I might prefer fresh Snake Oil, heady as it is, but the aged notes may be more mellow and perhaps more wearable over all (also tenacious as fuck). I may try a new vial of the pre-aged Snake Oil soon and see how the difference splits.

So, aged patchouli: Good! Manageable! Let's try another! I had left a rollerball of Pacifica's Himalayan Patchouli Berry in a drawer for a couple of years; when I first used it (I was trying to broaden my palate!), The Funk was too much. (Side note: This is a weird perfume, in that Pacifica will tell you upfront that it's grapefruit and patchouli, and you can tell it's grapefruit if you mentally squint at it, but it really does smell like some kind of berry. What kind of berry? ¯\_(ツ)_/¯) Here in 2023, the fragrance has mellowed out, and it's a lot easier to wear. Also, it proves Sylvaine Delacourte's point about citrus working well with patchouli, whether it's cosplaying as someberry or not.

I also had a fresh Nemat patchouli on hand. This was interesting because it had a little too much Funk for me, but it was also the first time I'd been able to smell a vetiver-like note in a patchouli. And by this time, I'd worn both Coco Mademoiselle and Snake Oil twice; my nose was tolerating patchouli better overall. After a year or so, this could smooth out into something really nice.

So: you can render patchouli more crowd-pleasing with the slow ingredient of time. What if you just used science? The Perfumer's Apprentice sells a natural patchouli oil that's undergone fractional distillation, which "produces a more elegant smell with less earthy tones, similar to the flower itself." On the other hand, Firmenich straight-up uses white biotechnology (today I learned!) to synthesize its Clearwood aromachemical:

Beaming with light, it offers the creamy warmth of amber and a dark woody character reminiscent of patchouli. [...] At higher dosages it can be used as a new building block. Rich in patchoulol, CLEARWOOD® can elegantly complement a patchouli essential oil.

I don't know for sure, but I'm guessing some kind of defunked patchouli, be it fractionally distilled or wholly synthetic, is what's in Coco Mademoiselle, which has a very elegant patchouli base. I mean, it also busts out harsh and peppery at first, but there is no actual Funk, oddly enough. But we'll get to that in the next post, now that you have the background.

Coco Mademoiselle (Chanel, 2001) and Coco Mademoiselle L'Eau Privée (2020)

Perfume discussion masterpost

[dark9896]

Dog & Deldro Head Cannons

Dog doesn't really have the capacity to sit still for long (unless he's painting or cuddling)

Deldro never knows what to do around the people Dog likes, he still has feelings for Aligula (they're just extra complicated after what she put him through)

Dog (in most fics where Deldro loses consciousness because the procedure didn't work the way Aligula wanted it to) gets to run around free, and he paints as a side to Libra

Deldro was a graffiti artist (among other things) and loved using a New Age style for everything

Dog prefers painting still-life style, but can do surreal (similar to Van Go and Picasso)

Dog prefers sweet foods, but Deldro prefers spicy... and no, sweet and spicy combo foods don't appeal to them

Both would rather have a cold drink over a hot drink (minus hot cocoa in the winter)

Children of Libra AU: ...they aren't allowed near the kids after the accident (Dog was pulling the boys in a wagon, tripped, and all five spilled to the ground and had to go to the doctor. Damien had the worst of it, he broke an arm)

[stresscreation]

★HELLO WELCOME★

Name(s): stress/kia(only by close friends)/lavender/ lav

Age:17yr

Gender+Pronouns: trans man; he/him

Orientation: polyamorous bisexual

>>interest<<

fandoms:welcome home, spiderman, buley, monster high, moral Orel,MLP, gravity falls, South Park, invaders zim, Lego batman, perfect blue,Omori,FNAF,sally face,animal crossing, hello kitty, furry famdom,DHMIS,eddsworld,Minecraft

Youtubers: Ashur Gharavi, Brandon Rogers, Danny Gonzalez,Emily artful, Izzzyzzz,jack pop, jack stauber, drawingWIFFwaffles, jelarts, Kuris Conner, Kwite,Markiplier, Moriah Elizabeth, Myuttz, pricklyalpaca, princy_is_sketchy,Sagan Hawkes,sierra ann ,sodikken, the last coffee bean,verz,tiffany weng,Thomas sanders,stressed pigeon , dollightful, matpat

Hobby’s: art(painting, drawing etc) photography, animation, sewing, film, Band,

Thing I think are cool: witchcraft, makeup art ,acting, history, cooking/baking,drag, cosplay

-Likes/dislikes-

Likes: fluffy stuff, bright colors, coffee, hot cocoa, paint on my clothes, cats, raccoons, star shape stuff, plans, hanging out with people, talking, giving gifts, making stuff, switch games, journals, spicy food, ranting, horror stories, RPG,dolls, stickers,stuff animals,crust punk,BUGS

Dislikes: sexual comments, SH comments,feet, boyfriends webtoons fans, loud stuff, sad stories, people who vent everyday, boba TEA (I’m sorry it’s the texture), DSMP STANS,sitting still, test, math, chemistry,yelling, tight pants, men with J names

~Music~

Artist I like: TV GIRL, Alex G, the front bottoms, Rebzyyx,Jack stauber,car seat head rest, Pat the bunny, acid bath,

Songs:just take my wallet,things to do,bodys,some strange angel,wet

-Good to know-

Willing too: take drawing request! listen to rants (not venting sorry 😕) or just be friend! ><

‼️DNI‼️: MAPS, Transphobic,homophobic, assholes, antisemitic, racist,hateful people, people over 25yr LEAVE ME ALONE, if your a man and your name starts with a J.

Links to my other stuff :D

If you wanna talk you can DM here or Pinterest or my discord is~ stress creations#2186

[ametrinember]

tagged by the fantastic awesome amazing @volchyayagoda, thank you! 😽🤗💜🦆

last song: 꿀 (HONEY) by 솔라 (Solar)

last movie: Rewatched New Gods: Nezha Reborn. Growing up, I’ve always loved Sun Wukong, and this movie did him SO much justice. 🥰

last show: Romantic Killer. I loved every second of it.

currently watching: Chainsaw Man. I’m enjoying the monster violence and I LOVE Makima’s voice. Tomori Kusunoki really brought it. I learned recently that there were some Japanese fans who were dissatisfied with her casting, but I love the juxtaposition of her sweet voice with the enigma and ruthlessness of her character. She sounds all the more intimidating for it, IMO.

currently reading: The Henna Artist by Alka Joshi. Beautiful writing and EXCELLENT pacing. There’s not a moment when I’m bored.

currently working on: My pink heart metal photo board for my BLACKPINK photo cards. My merch displays. My new ita bags. My next manicure. The never-ending queue for this blog.

favourite colour: Purple and its variants 💜

sweet/savoury/spicy: Sweet but as I’ve gotten older, oil and salt are becoming more and more of a regular craving.

coffee/tea/cocoa: Tea for my heart, cocoa for my soul, and coffee for my brain.

craving: I’m out of town right now and I want to bury my face in all my guinea pigs’ fur so bad!

bonus: Here are a couple of pigs (mama and baby) that I’m fostering through a rescue. Fingers crossed that they find a good home soon!

If you would like to do this, then I’m automatically tagging you and you must!! Go forth! 🤗

[nellycanwrite]

First time in your ask box hi 🥹 I have questions

🎨Anything that might inspire you subconsciously (i.e. this horse wasn't supposed to look like the Last Unicorn but I see it)

🎨Estimate of how much of your art you post online vs. the art you keep for yourself

🎨What physical exercises do you do before drawing, if any? Do you just jump into drawing or practice some things first?

Hi Cocoa! Sorry for the late reply to this ask, but I have finally found the time to procrastinate to finally answer!

🎨Anything that might inspire you subconsciously (i.e. this horse wasn't supposed to look like the Last Unicorn but I see it)

Let's see, I find listening to AURORA and fairycore/cottagecore music to subconsciously inspire me! Oddly (not really) enough, once I hear songs by Elvis Presley it sparks creativity, too! And maybe making AUs! My partner and I bond over making AUs for our OCs, so most of the time the artworks stemmed from there no matter how ridiculous of a prompt it is! (And just being around my partner is a subconscious trigger to spark inspiration MYEHE)

🎨Estimate of how much of your art you post online vs. the art you keep for yourself

I'd say about 70:30; seventy (70) being shown to my online audiences and and thirty (30) for more personal art! I like to post my more polished studies and workflow so other beginner artists can have a peak of my journey to being an artist. My commissions and other portfolio and print worthy art are posted online for general audiences! The thirty percent are more spicy art (that I sometimes show to close people only in its appropriate space), personal art for me and my partner, and the more grueling parts of of my studies like quick figure drawings, scratchy perspective practices, and long-term passion projects.

🎨 What physical exercises do you do before drawing, if any? Do you just jump into drawing or practice some things first?

I do ten minute yoga every morning and do quick static chair stretches, wrist exercises, and posture checking every 20 minutes while I draw! My mother raised me to have proper poise so posture is a really big deal for me, that's why I do these simple exercises to maintain my form while I draw! Before I actually dive into a full illustration (the fully rendered ones that take like 17 hours), I do napkin and thumbnail sketches! I don't usually warm up when I start drawing, especially when I have a spur-of-the moment idea that needs to be translated immediately into paper. That's why napkin and thumbnail sketches are more efficient for me!

Here’s some samples of my process! It’s literally just: scribble the rough idea you had on your head (napkin sketch), block out the colors or the lineart (refining), then do a bit of touch up (polishing)!

Napkin sketch > Clean-up > Render

Napkin Sketch > Lineart+Flat Colors > Render

Do note that not every artist have the same process, and not one artist has one method of doing things. Sometimes I’m meticulous with lineart, sometimes I go hyperrealistic, and sometimes I don’t even need to do a thumbnail or napkin sketch. Don’t be confined to Steps One, Two, Three—do what feels right at that moment (but learning and obeying the steps are important too! You just have to get used to it before you go out to explore the right method for you!)

So that is all. Thank you for coming to my TedTalk💃

[archduke-enver-gortash]

thank you for tagging me @dujour13 !

Last song: Ride into Obsession by Blind Guardian. Don’t know why but i listened to it like a billion times and i’m still not sick of it. For sure gonna be my top 1 most listened song in this years spotify wrapped haha

Last movie: Wendell & Wild. The big amount of different ideas and plots in this make it feel unfocused and kind of messy, but it was a super charming and fun watch nonetheless.

Last show: 1899. I enjoyed the first episode a lot, but then i learned that the shows creators blatantly copied a small artists comic. Read the original comic Black Silence by @/marycagnin on twitter if you’re interested in this show!!

Currently reading: Nothing by Janne Teller. I read this ages ago and absolutely hated it, but i recently saw someone talk about it again so i’ve decided to reread it. I’m almost finished, don’t know what past me was on but this book isn’t half as bad as i remember. It’s definitely not perfect tho. A bit edgy at times, but still an intriguing exploration of nihilism.

Favorite color: Red

Sweet/savory/spicy: definitely spicy

Coffee/tea/cocoa: i really can’t stand any hot beverage, but if had to pick, it’d be coffee.

Craving: A bakery in my town has the best chocolate cream cake ever, but the pieces are ridiculously overpriced…

tagging anyone that wants to do it!!

[was-noch]

A tag game! Thank you for tagging me @literarymagpie

last song: I think I ended the day yesterday with Katie Melua's Textures of Memories

last movie: The other day, I saw the documentary Rebellinnen - Fotografinnen - Underground in my local cinema. It's about three women using photography to find their voice and freedom during the oppressive times of the GDR. Hearing them talk about, which consequences perusing their artistic freedom had, was very interesting. One of the artists even came to the screening and answered questions afterwards.

last show: Taskmaster

currently reading: The Fortress of Solitude by Jonathan Lethem, which was given to me by a family member, who found it in an open bookshelve. I like it so far. We are going to ignore the other five books, that are currently sitting on my nightstand. I'm such a slow reader, I'll be glad, if I finish this one!

fav color: in all shades, it's blue 💙

currently working on: (apart from work and my thesis?) Some gif-set ideas for my sideblog. On a more personal note: I want to do a photo series depicting how memories elicit in everyday objects.

sweet/savoury/spicy: all of them, but I also have a sweet tooth

coffee/tea/cocoa: tea, although I love a good cocoa once in a while.

craving: a good night's sleep?

[monriatitans]

Ta-Da! List: Friday, June 21st

The image was made in Canva; check it out at the [referral] link here!

I share my “Ta-Da! List” every day so everyone gets a daily update and I have a reminder of what I’ve accomplished.

To learn more about “Ta-Da! Lists”, and other ADHD life hacks, check out @adhdjesse’s book Extra Focus: The Quick Start Guide to Adult ADHD.

Abbreviations

- O&T: Opinions & Truth Blog - NRL: The Neverending Reading List - WGS: The Weekend Game Show - COTMQ: Cause of the Month Quote - ASO: Artist Shout-Out - IG: Instagram - BMAC: Buy Me a Coffee - TDL: Ta-Da! List

Ta-Da! List

✧ throughout the day: - kept emails manageable - loaded the dishwasher - filled out today’s TDL

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ✧ on the mobile phone: - IG/Hive: shared today’s NRL

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ✧ on the bedroom setup: - Movies: watched The Nightmare Before Christmas - O&T: shared today’s TDL to the WGS Ko-fi

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ✧ on the office setup: - WGS: finished preparing drafts for July’s COTMQ posts; prepared the drafts for July’s ASO posts; prepared the ASO for tomorrow, June 22nd - O&T: shared today’s NRL, The Secret of Clouds, by Alyson Richman, on social media; added dates the NRL posts were shared to the Tumblr page and BMAC post; shared today’s TDL - Gaming: played Final Fantasy XIV - YouTube: watched and/or listened to: 1. Jim Sterling (The Jimquisition)’s videos “I’m Not Saying Emulators Are Cool, BUT…”, “Roadmap To Nowhere”, “Football Jock Games vs. Drama Nerd Games”, “Roadmap To Nowhere”, “Fear & Fury: How The Rockstar Sausage Is Made”, “Look After Your Workers Or Get Out Of Games”, “Article 13 And The ‘Meme Ban’”, “Ubisoft And The Division Of Content”, “Tellfail Games”, “The Social Shitshow Cycle”, “A Frustrated Post-Mortem Of Lawbreakers, Radical Heights, And The Culling”, “A Spicy Anthem Hot Take”, “A Video Discussing Whether Or Not Hello Games Lied About No Man’s Sky”, “YOUTUBE DEAD!? AD-FRIENDLY CENSORSHIP $$$$ IN CS:GO!”, “Content Divided: Death To Pre-Order Culture”, “Steam Refunds”, “Arkham Shite”, “The Silent Hell That Is Konami”, “A Bitter Post-Mortem Of Modern Warfare Remastercarded”, “Shenmue Is The Waterworld Of Videogames”, “Prepare For Titanfail”, “Sky Hype”, “Ten Worst Types Of DLC In History”, “Game Not Included”, “The Deadly Spiral Of Live Services”, “Yakuza’s Open World Is Biggest And Bestest”, “So Are “AAA” Loot Boxes Done?”, and “The Art Of Being Awful” 2. illymation’s video “Video games that haunted my childhood” 3. Listen2Kristen’s video “Stop mistreating women for plot: a controversial opinion (somehow) | Blood at the Root Review” 4. Upper Echelon’s video “Sweet Baby EXTORTING Black Myth Wukong? — I Dont Think So” 5. Robert Reich’s video “How Legalized Bribery Works in America I 10 Economic Myths Debunked #4” 6. Philosophy Tube’s video “Should Politicians be Honest or ‘Electable?’”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ✧ chores and miscellaneous: - Food: had coffee for breakfast; had leftover Extra Crispy Chicken Thighs with Potatoes for lunch and dinner; had hot cocoa - Chores: started, then unloaded the dishwasher; checked the mail

—

Well, these are all the updates I had for today! Thank you for reading!

May every decision you make be *in the spirit of fairness* and may the rest of your day *NOT go to $#!7*!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

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[goodvibescoffee]

Sipping Through Huntington: A Guide to Good Local Coffee Shops in Huntington WV

Nestled along the Ohio River, Huntington boasts a thriving coffee culture that caters to both early risers and leisurely sippers. From cozy neighborhood joints to bustling downtown hangouts, the city offers no shortage of cafés to explore. Let’s take a closer look at what makes Huntington’s coffee landscape so vibrant.

The Importance of Local Cafés

Good local coffee shops in Huntington WV, play a vital role that goes far beyond serving up caffeine. They act as community hubs, creative spaces, and welcoming retreats for residents and visitors alike. Here’s what you need to know about their significance:

Community Connection

As gathering places, cafés foster connections among neighbors, students, professionals, and everyone in between. Whether you’re catching up with old friends, making new ones, or simply working alongside others, Huntington’s cafés provide an inclusive, engaging environment. Their communal tables, relaxed vibe, and regulars from all walks of life facilitate social interaction. By choosing local over chain establishments, you also contribute directly to the local economy. Your coffee purchase supports the livelihoods of passionate baristas, artisan roasters, and small business owners.

The Art of Brewing

Behind each expertly crafted cup, you’ll discover true artistry and craftsmanship. From the roasting process to the brew methods, Huntington’s baristas take pride in their work.

Coffee Roasting 

Many local cafés roast their own beans in-house, emphasizing freshness, quality, and flavor nuance. Ask your barista about their roasting techniques - it’s a fascinating process that transforms raw coffee beans into aromatic, flavorful brews. Some specialty cafés also offer single-origin coffee near Huntington WV, which allows you to taste the distinct characteristics of beans grown in specific regions like Ethiopia, Colombia, and Guatemala.

Brew Methods

In addition to traditional espresso drinks, Huntington’s cafés utilize various brew methods to create an array of coffee experiences:

Pour-Over - Watch as baristas meticulously pour hot water over coffee grounds in a filter. The result is a clean, nuanced cup that highlights subtle flavors.

French Press - This classic, full-immersion technique yields a rich, bold, full-bodied brew.  

AeroPress - Portable and versatile, the AeroPress allows baristas to easily experiment with different roast profiles, temperatures, and brew times.

Beyond the Cup: Café Ambiance 

From the décor and music to the outdoor seating, the overall ambiance plays a key role in the café experience.

Cozy Interiors

The inside of a café often reflects the personality of Huntington itself - expect a relaxed mix of vintage furniture, brick walls, local art, and cozy nooks perfect for reading or working. Many also host live music events or showcases work by local artists.  

Outdoor Seating

Huntington’s mild climate makes al fresco coffee-sipping a delightful option. Neighborhood walk-ups feature petite patios, while spacious courtyards downtown are ideal for an afternoon latte and people-watching.

The Menu

Searching for something beyond the coffee alone? From cottage-inspired to boho chic, the quirky coffee shops of Huntington have you covered.

Beyond Espresso

Furthermore, along with expensive coffee beverages most cafés provide an assortment of special teas, hot cocoa -- especially for cold days, -- and others. Why not savor the floral notes of chamomile tea, the spicy taste of chai latte, or the classic hot cocoa with whipped cream.

Pastries and Snacks

From croissants with flaky crust to cinnamon rolls oozing gooey filling, the cafes of the area are very proud at the sight of their pastry cases stacked high with fresh-made sweets. Others cover range of dietary requirements as well with vegan, gluten-free etc. Whether you just want something sweet and savory or just want to match them with the morning brew coffee in Huntington WV, you will love local-made snacking.

Conclusion

Next time you find yourself in Huntington, skip the crowded chain and step into one of the city’s charming local cafés instead. Savor the welcoming atmosphere, appreciate the dedication behind each cup, and experience Huntington’s coffee culture first-hand. Every sip tells a story - one woven by the hands of passionate baristas and business owners. So, pull up a chair, order your drink of choice, and become part of the city’s rich coffee community.

[bizzna-pop]

Elevate Your Snack Game: Exploring the World of Popcorn Premix Flavor Combinations

Popcorn, cherished by people of all ages, offers a canvas for endless flavor exploration. Its adaptability transforms a simple snack into a culinary adventure. This article dives into the realm of popcorn premix flavors, presenting a variety of combinations to spark your creativity and enhance your snacking experience. Whether you're at the movies or in your kitchen, get ready to elevate your popcorn game.

1. Popcorn Premix: Effortless Flavor Fusion

Popcorn premixes are the secret weapon for effortlessly infusing flavor into your popcorn. Packaged in convenient sachets, these premixes make it simple to experiment with different flavors. From classic butter to exotic options like caramel or cheese, popcorn premixes offer a hassle-free way to elevate your popcorn experience.

2. Exciting Popcorn Flavor Combinations to Try

Satisfying Sweet and Salty: Enhance a butter-flavored popcorn tub with a dash of cinnamon sugar or a drizzle of caramel. This perfect balance of sweet and salty will satisfy your cravings.

Irresistible Cheesy Delight: Coat a plain popcorn tub generously with cheese-flavored seasoning for a burst of cheesy goodness. For those who crave heat, try jalapeno-flavored seasoning for a spicy twist.

Decadent Chocolate Lover's Treat: Mix cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and a pinch of salt to create a chocolatey blend. Sprinkle it over freshly popped popcorn for a delectable treat.

3. Personalize Your Popcorn Experience

While premixes offer convenience, don't hesitate to get creative and customize your popcorn flavors. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

Spicy Kick: Combine chili powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, and a squeeze of lime juice for a fiery seasoning. Toss freshly popped popcorn in this spicy mix for a bold flavor.

Herb and Garlic Explosion: Create an herb blend with dried rosemary, thyme, oregano, and garlic powder. Mix it with melted butter and coat the popcorn for a flavorful experience.

Aromatic Curry Twist: Sprinkle popcorn with curry powder and a touch of turmeric for an exotic flavor profile.

4. Keeping Your Popcorn Fresh

To preserve the flavors of your popcorn creations, store them in airtight containers or resealable bags. This ensures that you can enjoy your flavored popcorn whenever you desire.

Conclusion:

Popcorn premix and homemade flavor combinations offer endless possibilities for elevating your snacking experience. Whether you're at the movies or at home, embrace your creativity and experiment with different flavors. Unleash your inner flavor artist and enjoy the journey of creating unforgettable popcorn delights. So, grab a tub of popcorn, get creative, and savor every flavorful bite.

[megamobilestylesposts]

The Art of Perfume Layering

Unleash Your Inner Perfume Maestro

Perfume is like an invisible accessory, a statement that lingers in the air long after you've left a room.

But what if you could take that olfactory experience to the next level?

Enter the world of fragrance layering, where you can become a fragrance artist and create a scent that's uniquely yours. 

Whether you're a fragrance aficionado or just getting started, this guide to perfume layering will reveal the secrets to creating captivating scent blends that leave a lasting impression.

Selecting the Right Fragrances for Layering

Before you begin your perfume layering journey, it's important to understand the art of choosing the right scents. The key is to choose scents that complement each other harmoniously. 

Here's how: Experiment with combining floral and fruity scents, oriental and woody notes, or fresh and spicy scents for a dynamic blend.

Layering Techniques for Long-Lasting Scent

Now that you have your fragrance pairings ready, it's time to explore different layering techniques. How you layer your fragrances can affect the longevity and complexity of the scent. Here are two popular techniques.

Top-to-Bottom Layering

In this approach, start with the lightest scent as your base layer, applying it to your pulse points. Then apply the stronger fragrance on top. The top layer adds depth and character to the fragrance without overpowering the base.

Tip: Top-to-bottom layering is excellent for creating balanced and long-lasting scents, ideal for special occasions.

Side-by-Side Layering

For a more unique and complex blend, apply one scent to your upper body and another to your lower body or clothing. As you move, the scents will mix, creating an evolving scent that's uniquely you.

Tip: Side-by-side layering creates a dynamic fragrance experience that is perfect for everyday wear.

The Art of Timing: When and Where to Layer Perfume

Timing and placement play a crucial role in perfume layering. To make the most of your layered scents, follow these guidelines:

Apply your fragrances on freshly moisturized skin: Fragrances adhere better to moisturized skin, helping them last longer.

Layer fragrances before getting dressed: This prevents any potential staining or alteration of clothing colors.

Choose pulse points for application: Wrist, neck, and behind the ears are classic pulse points where the skin generates heat, enhancing scent diffusion.

Perfume Layering for Seasonal Appeal

Seasons change, and so should your fragrance. Perfume layering is an excellent way to adapt your scent to the weather. Here are some examples of fragrance combinations for each season:

Spring: Floral and citrus notes create a fresh, vibrant scent.

Summer: Light, aquatic fragrances layered with a touch of coconut or vanilla evoke a tropical vibe.

Fall: Woody and spicy scents blended with a hint of amber or cinnamon capture the cozy essence of autumn.

Winter: Warm and musky fragrances with a dash of vanilla or cocoa bring comfort in the cold.

Perfume Layering vs. Single Scents: Pros and Cons

While perfume layering offers endless possibilities, single scents have their merits too. Here's a quick comparison:

Perfume Layering:

Pros: Customizable, unique scents, longer-lasting.

Cons: Requires experimentation, and may be time-consuming.

Single Scents:

Pros: Simplicity, easy to choose and apply.

Cons: Limited customization, may not last as long.

Choosing between the two depends on your preference and the occasion.

Tip: Consider layering for special occasions and using single scents for everyday wear.

Tips for Layering Success: Dos and Don'ts

To ensure your perfume layering endeavors are successful, keep these dos and don'ts in mind:

Dos:

Start with clean, moisturized skin.

Before applying the next layer, allow it to dry.

To maintain the quality of your perfume, store them properly.

Don'ts:

Don't overdo it. A little goes a long way with perfume layering.

Avoid mixing too many fragrances at once. Keep to two or a maximum of three.

Don't rub your wrists together after applying perfume; it can alter the scent.

Conclusion: A Symphony of Scents Awaits

Perfume layering is a journey of self-discovery, a way to create scents that tell your story. With the right fragrances and techniques, you can create captivating and long-lasting blends that leave an indelible impression. So open up your fragrance collection, experiment fearlessly, and embark on a fragrance adventure that's uniquely yours.

At MOBILESTYLES, we understand the importance of fragrance in your beauty routine. Our beauty experts are here to help you discover fragrances that complement your style and provide personalized beauty services to keep you feeling fabulous all year long. Explore the world of beauty on-demand with MOBILESTYLES and unleash your inner fragrance artist today.

[theworldimworkingtowards]

Culinary Accountability:

Cookbook zine

Sweet:

Banana black pepper cardamom

Vanilla donut with pistachio curd

Salt and vinegar cookies with lavender fudge

Smoked black pepper honeycomb and vanilla

Lime leaf and vanilla

Passion fruit milkshake

Peaches and lime

Rose hibiscus pepper ginger tea

Sumac spice cake

Guava , chili pepper, lime, star anise

Rose cinnamon eggnog

Fig cinnamon eggnog

Coffee with fig whipped cream

Fig coffee

Chocolate mint muffins

Borage lemon cookies

Candied borage flowers

Rhubarb lemonade

Mint panna cotta

Raspberry scones with lavender glaze

Lemon balm iced tea with borage flowers

Dates soaked with jasmine syrup

Lemon cupcake with vodka frosting

Cream cheese pastelitos dipped in red chocolate coating

Birch cookies and cream

Sweet nestautrium cream

Raspberry cheesecake

Salty Potato chip tempura macaroon

Raspberry sugar - Raspberry powdered sugar

Pumpkin pie shakes

Rose milk tea cream puffs

Licorice seasalt gummy candy

Candy bowl with black licorice, elderberry gummy, ginger chews, raspberry fruit leathers

Raspberry pomegranate honey amaranth bars (popped amaranth)

Amaranth flower iced coffee

Elderberry ginger granola

Roses dusted with powdered sugar sifted

Savory:

Amaranth pizza

Lavender salt and vinegar chips

Honey Wheat Sandwich with purple sauerkraut, pulled pork, and lavender vinegar

Amaranth stir fry

Amaranth dolmas

Garlic scape pesto pizza

Garlic bread but with chive butter

Tacos with chard spinach and day lilies

Garlic scape pesto

Meatballs in a tomato base with amaranth and spinach on bread (gluten free option too)

Green Pesto meatball sandwich

Amaranth leaf dolmades

Fried amaranths stem fries / tempura

Red sandwich: Amaranth leaves sautéed Medium rare beef Honey berry sauce Pepper jack Red onions Beet powder buns Pine nuts Burrata cheese Brie cheese mushroom

Green:

Venus fly trap salad

Lime leaf and red pepper

Fermented passionflower

Borage leaf smoothie

Lemon butter

Carrot powder cinnamon buns

Ice Cream:

Salted guava ice cream

Black pepper ice cream

Banana ice cream

Honey fig ice cream

Star Anise + burbon fudge ice cream

Saffron ice cream in cardamom / star anise cone with pistachio/ star anise glaze shell dip

Vanilla saffron ice cream

Tea Blends:

Lavender magnolia tea

Lavender magnolia catnip tea

Sumac tea

Raspberry leaf, rose, rhubarb,

Blueberry (white flower like jasmine/cosmo/elderflower/berry/ lavender leaf) lemon peel, white chocolate

Nasturtium leaf and flower, chili pepper, ginger, marigold, expresso powder, lemongrass

Lemongrass, expresso powder / coffee bean, white chocolate, fennel seed, mint

Marigold, expresso powder, reishi, echinacea root

Calendula, corn silk, sunflower leaf, cosmo, some sort of root, rose hip, Mullein leaf

Tulsi and strawberry

Chocolate mint + rose + cocoa + rosemary + orange peel

Cocktails:

Serviceberry sake

Orchid inspired cocktail menu - with an illustration of the specific orchid

Breakfast food inspired cocktail menu

Interest/ themed inspired cocktail menu: Shibari, Scuba Diving, Oyster fishing, Boxing. Etc

New Years Intentions And Prosperity cocktail menu: Money- green, eucalyptus. Love Life- Rose, Berries, sweets. Self Fulfillment- Mint, Refreshing,. Ease Tension- Lavender, Loving,. Physical Activity- Spicy, activating. Academic- Focused, woody, smokey. Career- Lemon, woody smokey. Artistic- Mulberry, anise, sparkling. Exploration- Green, Red, cherry, lime, fun

Hibiscus champagne

Borage spritzers with lemon slices

Star fruit margarita with lime

Red Plumeria Cocktail

Cocktail with prickly pear syrup, aloe versa juice, cane sugar, lime, plumeria flower

Rose - white chocolate - expresso martini - seasalt - cardamom

[xstarxgazerx]

Would you rather...

1.) Go snow tubing for the day or go snowboarding for the day?

Tubing with my boys  😍

2.) Wear a winter hat every day or wear snow boots every day?

Boots? I don’t think my hair can take a hat every day

3.) Drink hot cocoa with marshmallows or eat ice cream every night?

I’m so cold right now I vote HOT cocoa, but that will change when I get warm

4.) Have to wear wet mittens or have to wear wet socks for a day?

Mittens, I think the socks would be worse

5.) Live in an igloo for a month or live in a gingerbread house for a month?

Igloo, I can practically smell the rot of cookies and that makes me sad  😂

6.) Build one giant snowman or make ten snow angels?

TEN SNOW ANGELSSSSS

7.) Wear a swimsuit all winter long or wear a snowsuit all summer long?

Swimsuit while I hide in @rykeranders‘ jacket with him

8.) Take a long ride in a dogsled or in a bobsled?

Dogsled! And then we can stop and play in the snow

9.) Go snowshoeing up a mountain or go snowmobiling down a mountain?

Down please!

10.) Wear a purple polka dot snowsuit or wear a yellow striped snowsuit?

Polka dots please!

11.) Sit by a warm fire in a cabin or go ice skating on a frozen pond?

I know I’ll find my love by the fire and that’s where I always want to be, with him.

12.) Soak in a natural hot spring or participate in a polar bear plunge?

Hot spring for sure

13.) Eat a bowl of spicy chili or a bowl of hot chicken noodle soup?

Ooooo, spicy chili

14.) Sled down a huge mountain once or sled down a small hill ten times?

Small hill with my small love 🥰  

15.) Go ice fishing on a lake or build a snow fort in your backyard?

I will never pass on fishing with my guys, but snow fort in the yard sounds like heaven too.

16.) Make friends with a wild polar bear or a crazy penguin?

We’re all a little crazy so you know, birds of a feather and all

17.) Have it snow every day or never snow at all?

... never at all I guess  😕

18.) Catch snowflakes on your tongue or eat an icicle popsicle?

I’m catching snowflakes every day

19.) Wear mittens on your feet or snowshoes on your hands?

Mittens here I come

20.) Build an awesome snow castle or build an amazing ice sculpture?

Ryker is the ice sculpture artist, I stick to snow castles 

21.) Meet Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer or Frosty the Snowman?

Mr. Snowman

22.) Roast marshmallows on a campfire or in a fireplace?

Always a campfire, it just hits different, though I wouldn’t turn down in the fireplace 

23.) Live inside of a giant snow globe or live in an igloo?

I think the igloo since there is an escape hatch  😋

24.) Jump in a mound of snow or jump in a puddle of mud?

Into a mound of snow I go

25.) Always wear gloves or always wear mittens?

I love mittens, but if I can’t take them off, then gloves.

[chadwick211]

Top Hennessy Cognac Gifts

When it comes to hennessy cognac gifts, you can't go wrong. As having one of the big four cognac houses, Hennessy is the world's largest producer and seller of cognac.

In the modern era, Hennessy Cognac is now part of one of the most prestigious luxury goods conglomerates in the world. The spirit of France in black culture became even stronger after the union. Its attractiveness increased as a result.

At sendgifts.com, you can purchase hennessy cognac online. Providing a wide selection of liquors at discounted prices, Sendgifts is the best liquor store in the USA.

Shop online for Hennessy Cognac at our online liquor store.

 Hennessy Cognac Range

According to the aging and blending processes, Hennessy cognac comes in the following varieties. These are used to indicate the cognac's age:  V.S ("very special," minimum of 2 years), V.S.O.P ("very superior old pale," minimum of 4 years), and X.O ("extra old," minimum of 10 years).

 Hennessy V.S

Hennessy Very Special (V.S) is a popular cognac all over the world. Hennessy V.S is rich in aroma and bold in flavor after being matured in new oak barrels. There is nothing else like Hennessy when it comes to its seductive character. It is a timeless choice with its own intensity. With toasted and fruit notes, Hennessy V.S offers a rich, clear palate and a welcoming exuberance.

Through annual limited editions and unique artist partnerships, Hennessy V.S expresses its vibrant and dynamic personality. This cognac is perfect for high-energy occasions and sharing moments with friends.

The round and robust flavors of Hennessy V.S make it suitable for a wide variety of cocktails, from classic recipes to sophisticated creations to easy mixed drinks.

Tasting Notes:

Hennessy V.S Cognac is very bold and opens with sweet wood and nutty fragrances to remind you that it is in the room. The palate is warm and filled with grape, citrus, and apple notes, along with a considerable amount of wood, which is not overpowering but eminently pleasing.

 Hennessy V.S.O.P Privilege

Hennessy V.S.O.P Privilege is a well-balanced cognac expressing 200 years of Hennessy craftsmanship. As a result of nature's uncertainties, this unique blend has tamed the elements to encapsulate the original concept of cognac. Every sip reveals a new aspect of its personality.

Maison Hennessy's savoir-faire is fully expressed in this balanced cognac: the selection of Eaux-de-vie, the aging process, and the assemblage process. Hennessy V.S.O.P Privilege is a cognac that embodies all the master blenders' knowledge that has ensured Hennessy's continuing success for 200 years.

Tasting Notes:

Eye: Warm mahogany.

Nose: Oak, vanilla, cinnamon, candied fruit and clove.

Palate: A harmonious balance of smoothness and strength, the structure is softened by a fresh burst of grapes. A long finish.

Finish: Medium length, soft caramel and light spice.

 Hennessy X.O

In 1870, Maurice Hennessy developed Hennessy X.O for his circle of friends and introduced a new style of cognac. Original Hennessy X.O is the emblematic icon of Hennessy Maison.

With a deep and powerful aroma, the Eaux-de-vie of this Hennessy X.O cognac has been aged in young barrels and has a roundness that can only be achieved through time and experience.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: A rich, fruity palate with prunes, Corinth raisins and sticky toffee pudding.

Palate: Dark chocolate and over-ripe plums. A little sultana character, cocoa butter and spice.

Finish: Spicy, vanilla-led finish with all kinds of dark fruits.

 Hennessy Paradis

The cognac Hennessy Paradis was created by Maurice Fillioux in 1979 and is known for its voluptuous and harmonious aroma. Eaux-de-vie reflect the character of such a delightful cognac: supple, light, and round.

They are blended together to create an excellent cognac. In addition to its fine nuanced and harmoniously balanced aromatic qualities, it has a graceful, silky character. Having aged in old casks for many years, it displays superb coppery gold colors.

Tasting Notes:

Appearance: Dark Copper.

Nose: Dark fruits, roses, and spice.

Palate: Rich, with rancio, juicy plum, honeysuckle, and wood.

Finish: Medium length with complex fruit and spice.

 Hennessy Black Cognac

Hennessy Black Cognac is the highly versatile, decidedly different new cognac from the world’s leading cognac house. Distinctively smooth with a fresher, lighter flavor, it is a blend of 35 to 45 unique pale and gold colored eaux-de-vie selected for their elegant floral characteristics. They are then aged in French Limousin oak casks which have been previously used at Hennessy for a gentler maturation, and an elegant wood influence.

Hennessy Black offers an exciting alternative to vodka and tequila, and can be enjoyed on its own or mixed.

Tasting Notes:

Eye: Golden amber color.

Nose: Citrus, fresh grapes, honey with delicate floral aromas of jasmine.

Palate: Smooth and intense with sweet honey and a touch of citrus, complex roundness.

Finish: Evolves into a more masculine, woody taste.

 Hennessy Pure White

Hennessy Pure White Cognac is an intriguing blend of eaux-de-vie between two and 50 years from the Grande Champagne, Petite Champagne, Borderies, and Fins Bois regions, which yields a very intricate, pure cognac. Challenge to produce, this distinctive cognac is light and delicate in character with its fresh, simple notes.

Hennessy Pure White Cognac is as fascinating as it is popular. It has bottled at 40% alcohol by volume. It is for a perfect reason, as the White Hennessy is a Cognac that can be experienced in so many ways. Light and round, definitely not aggressive, it combines deliciously fresh aroma with a young, pure, clean taste. This makes Hennessy White the perfect Cognac to drink neat, over ice, in a cocktail, or with your favorite mixer. It's an excellent cognac for those who appreciate simplicity and lightness in their drink. Enjoy!

Tasting Notes:

Subtle floral aromas on the nose. The palate is fruity with a delicate, intricate character. The finish is lingering, smooth and light.

[gambitandrogues]

ya know what, I'm bored, so we're doing this

dni if you think stuffed animals are for kids only, think neon green is valid, ship drarry (or "separate the art from the artist" with j*r), are in your hamilton phase, don't like dogs or cats, keep an updated bullet journal, hate hot cocoa, get disappointed when ya books aren't spicy, dislike thunderstorms, have a duolingo streak longer than 20 days, have led lights, have never been to your local library (if there's one near you), have a key west stick on your car, want a house with entirely white appliances, say you were "born in the wrong time", think encanto needed queer characters, are a disney adult(tm), consider your birthday your favorite holiday, consider the catcher in the rye one of the best classics, don't like succulents, simp for any man written by sarah j. maas, don't have seasonal allergies, dislike himbos, can play more than three instruments, have multiple beach vacations planned for the summer, don't have a favorite historical period, have ever treated a person in customer service like shit, know what I'm talking about if I say "you're my sister, my blood, my family," have never created an oc or dislike romcoms