KEEP YOUR COLOR - TIPS FOR MAKING YOUR HAIR DYE LAST
Written by Miss Bliss on September 10, 2008 – 9:47 am -“I read in a magazine that there are salons now where you can get your hair colored with natural eco-friendly dye. Do you think that’s better than the color you get in normal salons?”
I am having an early Thai feast with my man and our friend, J.P. A brilliant make-up artist, naturalist, and vegan, J.P. seems the perfect person to ask whether or not it is time for my color to join the green movement and go “natural.” Besides, she has long, gorgeous hair and her color is always perfect.
“That’s just the marketing rage, these days,” she says with a sigh. “Everything has to be green and organic. But, no, I wouldn’t bother. The natural dyes are hennas and limited in color. Plus they don’t last as long.”
“What about the chemicals in hair color,” I ask. “My next door neighbor swears her mom got cancer from dying her hair too often.”
“All the cancerous stuff they took out of dyes in the early ’80s,” J.P. says as she brushes her long locks back over her shoulder. “Look, I only dye my hair 4 times a year and that won’t hurt you.”
From my dinner with J.P, I learned that when hair is colored less frequently, exposure to harmful chemicals and the risk of cancer is also reduced. So, it is in our interest, dear readers, to do what we can to make our color last until better natural dyes are produced.
TIPS FOR MAKING YOUR HAIR COLOR LAST
1. SHAMPOO ONLY WHEN YOU ABSOLUTELY NEED TO
Washing your hair with shampoo is the fastest way to make your color fade. Each shampoo strips hair of color, which is why if you goof on your hair color and make it too dark, stylists recommend washing it with shampoo until the lighter color you want is achieved. Avoid shampooing, and just rinse your hair with conditioner, which will “wash” your hair and strengthen it from any chemical damage.
2. IF YOU MUST SHAMPOO, USE A COLOR SHAMPOO
Shampoo manufacturers have created shampoos specifically for color treated hair. Pantene’s line is nice and inexpensive. Just pick out the shampoo that matches your color (blonde, red, brunette) and make sure to throw away your other color-stripping shampoos.
3. USE A COLOR CONDITIONER AT LEAST TWICE A WEEK
As I have written before, because my hair is very dry and curly, I NEVER wash my hair except when I am at the salon getting it colored or cut. I do, however, alternate conditioners when I shower. I love Pantene’s line color conditioners and have had excellent results with their line for red hair. I put the conditioner in as soon as I get in the shower and leave it in until I am about to get out. After I towel-dry, I add some moisturizing conditioner into my hair to style it, and my color stays.
4. ONLY COLD/WARM WATER SHOULD TOUCH YOUR HAIR
Hot water is another great enemy to your color. Avoid hot water at all costs as it strips and damages hair. Try rinsing your hair in cold water for a week and see how much shinier, well-moisturized and strong it becomes.
5. CONDITION YOUR HAIR BEFORE SWIMMING IN CHLORINATED WATER
Summer is a tough time for chemically-treated hair. Swimming in chlorinated water will strip your color faster than you can read this sentence. In order to protect it, before you enter the pool, run conditioner through your hair and tie it in a bun (if your hair is short, just run conditioner through it.) The conditioner will “seal” your hair and protect it from the chlorine. Make sure to rinse with fresh water as soon as you are done swimming.
6. SUNLIGHT DAMAGES COLOR, TOO
Make sure to wear sun hats to cover your hair on sunny days, as direct sunlight can strip hair color. You may want to use a hair masque product with SPF to protect your color, too.
And, of course, if you really want to avoid the chemicals in hair dye and make your natural color last as long it can, just don’t color your hair… But that’s not so fun, now, is it?
XOXOXOXOXO
BLISS WARRIOR
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NEW FEATURE AT BLISS WARRIOR: AN EVENTS PAGE FOR BI-WOMEN!
KNOW ABOUT AN EVENT FOR BI-GIRLS? E-MAIL ME AT BLISS@BLISSWARRIOR.COM.
RIGHT NOW, THERE ARE 6 UPCOMING EVENTS FOR BI-GIRLS IN NEW YORK AND SAN DIEGO.
CLICK HERE TO SEE THE EVENTS PAGE AND GET OUT OF YOUR HOUSE AND MEET A BI-GIRL!
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IF YOU ENJOYED THIS BLOG, YOU MAY ENJOY READING:
THE MAN WHO LET CURLY LOCKS DOWN: A HAIR PRODUCT REVIEW
WHERE DO VEGETARIANS GET THEIR IRON?
IS PRETTY LINGERIE JUST FOR GIRLS?
IS YOUR WATER DESTROYING YOUR COMPLEXION?
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Posted in BEAUTY, HEALTH, Uncategorized, cancer |
WHERE DO VEGETARIANS GET THEIR IRON?
Written by Miss Bliss on June 16, 2008 – 3:54 pm -Dearest Bliss Girls,
One of the most common questions I am asked when people discover I am vegetarian is, “Do you take an iron supplement?” As many of you know, I am not a fan of vitamins and supplements. I prefer to eat my vitamins and minerals by eating a variety of whole foods. My pretty and chic dark-haired neighbor writes for a California health magazine. She believes many vitamins are toxic and may even contribute to the development of cancer. So, if you are a vegetarian with a family history of cancer, you may want to replace your bottle of iron capsules with good old fashioned whole foods rich in iron.
1. WHICH VEGETARIAN FOODS ARE RICH IN IRON?
Many vegetarian foods are high in iron, including beans and peas, silken tofu, tempeh, kelp, wheat germ, pumpkin and sesame seeds, blackstrap molasses, dried prunes, miso soup, parsley, nettles, dandelion root, amaranth greens, and almonds
2. ISN’T IT EASIER FOR YOUR BODY TO ABSORB THE IRON IN ANIMAL PRODUCTS?
There is a pervasive myth that the only iron our body can digest comes from animal products. There are two forms of iron: heme and non-heme. It is true that the heme form of iron found in animal products is more easily absorbed than the non-heme form found in plant foods. However, the key here is even iron in animal products is BETTER absorbed when eaten with Vitamin C. To ensure you get the most iron out of your vegetables, seeds, and nuts, eat them with foods rich in Vitamin C, like lemons and limes. The Vitamin C will help your body to maximize iron absorption and you will have no need for the heme form of iron.
3. ARE THERE VEGETARIAN FOODS RICH IN IRON AND VITAMIN C?
Yes! Save yourself some time and eat these vegetarian foods that are high in both iron and Vitamin C: dried fruits, beets and beet greens, chard, spinach, prune juice and grape juice.
4. COPPER CAN INCREASE IRON ABSORPTION, TOO
These foods are also good to pair with iron rich foods to increase iron efficiency: legumes, nuts, dark dried fruits, molasses, avocados, brazil nuts, and soybeans.
5. WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO ENSURE I AM GETTING IRON?
Darling, girls, the simplest way to make sure you are getting enough iron is to cook in iron pots. That will up the iron level of all of your veggies and grains.
RECIPE SUGGESTION FOR A VEGGIE IRON BONANZA: SPINACH SALAD WITH TEMPEH CROUTONS
From Judith Benn Hurley’s wonderful cookbook, Savoring the Day.
4 ozs. tempeh cut into 1/2 inch cubes
1 clove garlic, minced
1 T toasted (dark) sesame oil
1 t. honey
dash of hot pepper sauce, or to taste
1 T lemon juice
1 t. reduced-sodium soy sauce
1 1/2 t. grated fresh ginger
3 cups spinach leaves, rinsed
1 cup torn pieces romaine lettuce
2 scallions, minced
To make the croutons, heat the tempeh in a large nonstick saute pan on medium high, stirring constantly, until lightly browned, 2 1/2 to 3 minutes. Remove the croutons from the heat and let them relax while you prepare the salad.
In the bottom of a salad bowl, combine the garlic, sesame oil, honey, hot pepper sauce, lemon juice, soy sauce and ginger and whisk well. Add the spinach, romaine and scallions and toss until all of the leaves are lightly bathed with the dressing. Serve the salad on chilled plates and garnish with the croutons.
XOXOXOXOXOXOXOX
BLISS WARRIOR
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THIS SATURDAY AT 2 PM: COME TO HIGH TEA WITH OTHER EXCEPTIONAL BI-GIRLS. E-MAIL ME AT BLISS@BLISSWARRIOR.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.
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Posted in NUTRITION, STDs, Uncategorized, boyfriends, iron, vitamins |
SPIN THE BOTTLE - ANOTHER FRIDAY NIGHT BEDTIME STORY
Written by Miss Bliss on May 30, 2008 – 6:52 pm -
“God, girl, you make a mean gin and tonic.”
“It’s all about the bitters,” Carina says. “And the fresh lime. Without lime, a gin and tonic is just ick.” She scrunches up her freckled nose and shakes her straight strawberry blonde hair. She is utterly adorable and you remember why you first fell in love with her in English Lit. class.
“That’s so true,” says your beautiful friend, George. She is an incredibly stunning blonde dressed in black jeans and a white tank. Her hot pink bra straps hang out and her blue eyes look up at you through thick black liner. You are in love with her and she loves you and you wonder when the right amount of alcohol will bring you together.
You smile, so delighted that George likes your new friend, Carina. This is the first night you’ve hung out with a group of girls in a long time. Most of the time you are out drinking with the boys; the guys who pine for you but are too unattractive or too boring for your heart. Sometimes, one of your good girl friends joins you, or you just go out alone with her. But you rarely go out with a group of girls. It’s just not your scene.
Both George and Carina are fun to split a cheap pitcher of beer with, but their personalities are completely different. George is bisexual, like you, and tells the boys you are both lesbians, so they don’t interrupt your conversation. She holds your hand across the table and kisses it, just to tease you and impress them. All night you talk sex, masturbation, fantasies, and brag to each other about your sexual talents, but you don’t hook up. The flirtation is there but neither of you are willing to make the first move. Well, not yet.
Carina is dreamier, more romantic, and very, very straight. You wonder if she can orgasm, but never say that to her. Instead, you two talk about novels, art, expression, love, old boyfriends and current disappointing dates. Or, rather, she talks, while your mind imagines the day the two of you wake up together nestled in each others’ arms. You wouldn’t find her interesting normally, but she is so sweet and pretty and innocent - and, a challenge. Plus, how straight is she if she holds your hand as you walk down the street and kisses you on the cheek? She must be at least curious, but you don’t say this because you can’t lose her.
“Did you two ever play Spin the Bottle,” George asks, with a wicked smile. You hope she doesn’t freak Carina out.
“Oh, my God! I loved that as a little girl,” Carina says with a giggle.
We are sitting on pillows on Carina’s living room floor. She just moved out of the dorms and doesn’t have any furniture yet. You tell your two friends, glowing in the light of low lamps covered in silk scarves, that when you were ten, you had a slumber party. “We played Spin the Bottle, and for awhile the girls just would answer truth questions. Then it became dares.”
“Did girls hook up,” asks George with a naughty wink.
“Girls kissed each other but it wasn’t considered gay because we were practicing for our first kiss with a boy.”
“I practiced kissing with my best friend,” Carina says, and you notice her cheeks are flushed.
“You never told me that,” you say shocked.
“We should play right now,” says George and you smile at her. A part of you panics that Carina might end up liking George more than you, but you silent that voice with a large gulp of gin.
“So are we playing truth or dare or strip Spin the Bottle,” you ask, determined not to let George outshine you.
“Strip Spin the Bottle,” asks Carina in her innocent voice. “Did you play that? I’ve never heard of that.”
“Let’s play Truth or Dare,” George doesn’t wait for you to answer Carina’s question. She is ready to play. “But, please God, nobody say truth, okay? Because that is way too boring.”
“Only if I get to spin first,” Carina says to George. “And only if we do some more shots.” Carina goes behind the small bar that separates her kitchen from the rest of her living room and lines up three shots of vodka with more lime to chase it. “I definitely need to get drunker!” Each of you down the shots, laugh, she repours, you repeat.
Finding an empty bottle in her recycling, Carina leads us back to the floor and we clear a space to spin the green bottle. She spins first, as requested, and the bottle spins fast, then slows and finally points right at you. “Dare me, darling, dare me,” you say, feeling the alcohol.
“I dare you to drink another shot,” Carina says and George rolls her eyes, showing her disapproval of an utterly lame dare.
“We just did a shot,” you say but wanting to show off how well you hold your liquor, you stand, go over to her kitchen bar and down another. Returning to the girls, you ask, “That was easy. My spin?”
You spin the bottle and let it whirl and whirl. It lands directly between both girls. You spin again. It lands on George. She smiles at you with her cocky grin and you say, “I dare you to kiss Carina’s neck.”
She looks at you with an odd question in her eyes. You seem to have surprised her and enjoy seeing her confusion. “I would love to,” she says, her bravado restored. She comes up to Carina, and slowly, slowly, moves in close to her, tucks her red hair behind her ear and lets her pink, full lips linger - lovingly - on Carina’s neck. For a moment the air is electric and still and you feel a strong throb between your legs. A part of you is frightened by what will happen next. The drunk part of you can’t wait for the bottle to spin again.
Carina, laughs a very drunk laugh, and says, “Wow. That was the best neck kiss ever.” She laughs more and you suddenly feel left out and sad. You wonder why you wanted these two to meet. “Your spin, George,” Carina says in long, smiling, loopy-drunk words.
George spins and it lands on Carina. She smiles, and George says, “I want you to go over to our darling friend kiss her for at least two minutes. I’ll keep time,” she says and gestures to her watch. Carina looks a little scared and George is feeling victoriously naughty. She looks at you and her eyes ask if she’s shocked you yet.
Carina comes over and sits in front of you. Both of you are cross-legged and as she leans in to kiss you, she starts to giggle. “This is so weird,” she says, which shames and embarrasses you. You were right to never tell her about your sexuality.
“The clock is starting. Two minutes. 1, 2, 3 go.”
Intent to prove something, you kiss Carina slowly. You take the time to gently press against her lips. Not pressing too hard, she soon presses harder into you. Slowly, you open your lips and her drunken tongue finds its way into your mouth. Her tongue is as small as her lips and she tastes like alcohol and sugar. Soon, lost in her taste, you forget where you are, and your arms drift up her arm. Deep in your gut, the kiss penetrates you and you wonder if you have just fallen in love.
“Time’s up,” George says. “You two are good kissers.” She crawls up to the two of you and asks with faux innocence, but true charm, “Am I a good kisser?” She looks into your eyes and kisses you just as slowly, just as sweetly, just as delicately. Again, your stomach flips and you cannot believe this is really happening. Both girls you have ached for both kissing you? It feels so perfect you worry you may tear up.
As George pulls away, she turns to Carina. They kiss and you watch these two friends get lost in each other. As they separate, Carina says, “You are both wonderful kissers.” She laughs and says, “I can’t believe this.”
“Time for another round,” George stands and makes her way back to the kitchen.
“Yes,” you say.
“Can we play another round?”
“Oh, we are only just beginning,” you say, and you kiss her once more.
TO BE CONTINUED…..
XOXOXOOXOXOX
BLISS WARRIOR
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IF YOU ENJOYED THIS BLOG, YOU MAY ENJOY READING OTHER EROTIC FICTION BY BLISSWARRIOR
FOLLOW MY RULES PART ONE AND PART TWO
CAPTIVATING THE COLLEGE GIRL PART ONE, PART TWO, AND PART THREE
TOUCHING UNDER THE TABLE
WAKE ME UP WITH YOUR TONGUE
YOU MADE MY BRAIN COME
LEARNING TO LOVE STRAP-ONS
ONE FRENCH AFTERNOON
WALKING HOME IN HER PANTIES
Posted in BISEXUALITY, EROTIC FICTION, FRIDAY NIGHT BEDTIME STORIES, Uncategorized, alcohol, bi-girls, bisexual, bisexual girls, coming out, friends, fun, girls kissing, lovers, women |
ASK MISS BLISS - MEAT MADE MY BODY SICK AND I NEED HELP BECOMING VEGETARIAN
Written by Miss Bliss on May 14, 2008 – 10:23 am -
Dearly loved Bliss,
I recently became very ill and, as a result, had to have my body COMPLETELY flushed. As a result, I am having a really hard time dealing with “normal” food. Even before my illness, I had been considering becoming vegetarian for health reasons, but never really saw it as convenient. I was willing to tolerate my problems with food in exchange for yummy stuff! The more I research it, though, the more I am realizing I don’t have to trade taste for health, but can combine, thanks in part to your lovely blogs about a decadent and healthy lifestyle.
Now more than ever (and because of my illness) I am very seriously considering giving up meat. If you get a chance, I would love your opinion on it, tips on eating healthily, anything. Also…is your delightful husband health-conscious as well? My fiance is an amazing chef who delights in creating wonderful things with food, but he’s never tried cooking anything without meat. I think this could be a challenge for both us - more for him, honestly, because he does all that cooking (I know, I’m totally spoiled. :D).
I guess all I’m asking for is your input. I know living in California and New York probably makes it easier for you because you have more top-quality produce available to you, but here in Atlanta, it seems people haven’t yet discovered the meaning of the word health. 
I know you’re a terrifically busy woman, and if you never get a chance to get back to me, I understand. But I would love to hear your thoughts, maybe glean a bit of wisdom from you.
Love from afar!
Sick of Meat
Dearest Sick of Meat,
I very much understand how scary it must be to know that you no longer have a choice when it comes to food. Due to weak health, you have to dramatically change your diet to return to your vibrant self and the implications of this change do not only affect you, but affect your partner, as well. In a relationship, it can be hard to have different dietary needs, especially when one partner is the primary cook.
When I first became vegetarian six years ago last week (my veggie anniversary), my partner panicked. A dedicated carnivore, he liked very few fruits and vegetables and since I was the primary cook, he knew immediately, that my choice to stop eating animals would affect his life, too. At first, I thought it would be easy to continue as we had eaten before. When we stopped at Burger King, I ordered the veggie burger. At Subway, I ate the “veggie delight” sandwich (which basically is a cheese sandwich with lettuce, tomato, pickles, olives, etc.). I ordered pasta with marinara sauce at Italian restaurants and asked for salads without the meat in more traditional places. Basically, I tried to adapt without affecting the way my partner ate because I always saw my vegetarianism as “my choice” and never wanted to push it on my love or anyone else in my life.
But soon, I became bored of icky-tasting veggie burgers and cheese sandwiches. I didn’t want to get fat on carbs and dairy by making the mistake many vegetarians do of overindulging in macaroni and cheese and margherita pizzas. I knew that I had to learn how to cook if I was going to be a happy and healthy veggie girl. And, if I was going to be a vegetarian chef, my man’s diet would have no choice but to change, as well.
WAYS TO HELP TURN YOUR PARTNER ONTO A VEGGIE LIFESTYLE
1. FAKE MEAT HAS NO CHOLESTEROL AND DOES NOT CAUSE HEART DISEASE
Many transitional vegetarians feel confused as to what to eat to replace meat. In the beginning, I could not imagine a meal that did not have some kind of “protein”, so I tried to make my favorite dishes with “fake” soy meats because I had not learned to enjoy tofu and seitan yet (that took a good couple of years) and I also hadn’t realized how many marvelous dishes there are just veggies and grains. I made my man tacos with ground soy “meat”, and stir-fried veggies with soy “chicken” strips. For breakfast, we would make scrambled eggs with soy “bacon”. Even though it was not as satisfying as meat, we learned to enjoy how little cholesterol we were eating and my man got behind the idea that we were lowering our heart disease risk and losing weight. I encouraged him to continue cooking meat for himself, but he did not feel comfortable doing this, and so I tried to think of vegetarian dishes that were “almost” like his favorite foods – all with soy meats.
2. BEING VEGETARIAN IS THE BEST WAY YOU CAN FIGHT GLOBAL WARMING
Goveg.com reports that “A 2006 United Nations report found that the meat industry produces more greenhouse gases than all the SUVs, Hummers, cars, trucks, planes, and ships in the world combined.”
So tell your man if you both reduce your meat intake, you can help stop global warming and ensure there is a beautiful world for your future children and grandchildren. To read Fight Climate Change with Diet Change, CLICK HERE.
3. LEARN TO ENJOY VEGETARIAN MEALS BY EATING IN ETHNIC RESTAURANTS
For some transitioning vegetarians with meat-eating partners, the best way to find new veggie dishes you like (and that he may like, too) is to visit ethnic restaurants that serve both veggie and non-veggie entrees. Indian, Thai, Chinese, and Italian restaurants all have vegetarian options. He can order the flesh meal, and you can try veggie entrees and have him taste them. He might just prefer the meal you chose!
4. ASK HIM TO KEEP THE MEAT ON THE SIDE
Many home-cooked meals can easily be modified to be vegetarian. If he cooks pasta with meatballs, ask him to keep the meatballs on the side so you can have veggie pasta with marinara sauce. If he’s making chicken with a salad, ask him to make an extra large salad for you and augment its protein by adding nuts or cheese. Or, have him pull a soy chicken breast from the fridge and cook that for you. At first, this can seem like a drag, but soon enough, it will get you helping him in the kitchen which can be a lot more fun and good for your relationship.
5. THE BEST PRODUCE IS AT THE FARMER’S MARKET
Even in California and New York, the best produce is not found in the grocery store, but at the Farmer’s Market. And, guess what, darling reader? There are Farmers’ Markets even in Atlanta, Georgia. CLICK HERE to see the many markets in Georgia. Shopping in Farmers’ Markets supports local farmers and also helps stop global warming because you are purchasing food that was not packaged or shipped, wasting precious natural materials, gas and oil. Plus, at the Farmers’ Markets, the prices are cheaper, the produce is fresher, and you get to taste food before you buy it. I personally find it moving to meet the people who make and harvest my food and it is easier to get good, non-pesticide-sprayed organic foods at the Farmer’s Market. Many markets also have musicians, fresh flowers and are a wonderful way to spend a Saturday or Sunday morning with the person you love.
6. WHEN HE FEELS MORE COMFORTABLE, GO TO VEGETARIAN RESTAURANTS TO FIND NEW ENTREES YOU BOTH LIKE
When I did a quick google search of vegetarian restaurants in Atlanta, Georgia, many options came up. So, when you are feeling ready, do a search and explore some new places and new foods in your area.
7. GET ONE NEW BIG VEGETARIAN COOKBOOK
I rarely cooked before I became vegetarian. But when I grew bored of the three or four veggie dishes I knew how to make, I finally purchased Marilyn Diamond’s massive cookbook, The American Vegetarian Cookbook From The Fit For Life Kitchen. With over 400 pages of recipes, you can find some dishes you will both like. And, since they are healthy for you, your new entrees will help you both be thinner, fitter and healthier while not denying you yummy taste.
7. BE GENTLE HELPING YOUR PARTNER TO ACCEPT YOUR NEW DIETARY HABITS
After six years of my being vegetarian, my man is now a vegetarian 26 days of the month. I have never tried to force him to be veggie and understand that sometimes his body needs meat. When it does, we try to purchase clean, organic meat in restaurants we trust. He understands that I will not cook meat and he does not feel comfortable bringing animal flesh into our home, but that is his choice, not mine. The number one thing to being successfully vegetarian is to notice how your body feels when you eat veggie dishes. As your body becomes healthier, you will naturally reach your ideal weight and trust me, your partner will want to be more like you!
XOXXOXOXOXO
BLISS WARRIOR
Posted in HEALTH, NUTRITION, RELATIONSHIPS, body size, boyfriends, natural health, soy, vegetables, vegetarian |
CHOCOLATE PUDDING THAT IS DAIRY, WHEAT AND NUT-FREE
Written by Miss Bliss on April 24, 2008 – 9:43 am -
My darling childhood friend recently found our that her nine-month old baby is allergic to dairy, wheat and nuts. Since she is still breastfeeding, this means she cannot eat dairy, wheat or nuts either!
“What I miss most is fat,” says Sonia. “I’m starving and just want to eat chocolate! Do you have any dessert recipes that are dairy, wheat and nut-free?”
“Actually, girl, you are in luck! Did you know you can make an amazing chocolate pudding out of ripe avocados?”
“Shut up,” says Sonia with a laugh. “You are not serious.”
“Really! The avocado is a great creamy base for the pudding and the chocolate masks any avocado taste. Plus, you get lots of really great fats and vitamins from the avocado. Not only will it satisfy your cravings, it will make your skin glow and your hair shine.”
“Send me the recipe. I’m starving for chocolate.”
RAW VEGAN CHOCOLATE PUDDING
2 T organic chocolate
1 cup water
1 t. vanilla extract
1/4 t. cinnamon
10 pitted dates, soaked in water for 5-10 minutes and drained
1 avocado, ripe
strawberries
1. In a food processor or high-speed blender, process all ingredients except strawberries, dates and avocado.
2. While the food processor is running, alternate dates and avocado until the entire mixture is smooth.
3. In a wine or champagne glass, alternate mousse and sliced strawberries to create a layered decadent dessert.
TIP: If you use more water this makes a wonderful chocolate sauce to pour over your favorite vegan ice cream or a dipping sauce for fruit.
This recipe was slightly altered from Robyn Boyd’s amazing raw (and some cooked) vegan cookbook, Rawsome Recipes.
XOXOXOXOXOX
BLISS WARRIOR
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IF YOU ENJOYED THIS BLOG, YOU MAY ENJOY READING:
DRINK YOUR VEGETABLES
GET SKINNY WITH BUTTERNUT SQUASH SOUP
SHE SIPS SAKE
GET SKINNY EATING DECADENTLY (with a recipe for vegan chocolate pudding made from fresh coconut)
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HOTEL BLISS UPDATE:
We approved 100 applications to join Hotel Bliss yesterday, and today even more applications were received. The feedback from users has been great and it is wonderful to see so many bi and bi-friendly girls coming together for friendship, fun and empowerment. Want to join the slumber party? E-mail me at bliss@blisswarrior.com. Only e-mails with pictures or a link to a myspace page will be accepted. If you would like to learn more about Hotel Bliss, please CLICK HERE.
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Posted in GUEST BLOGS, NUTRITION, Uncategorized, cheating, dieting, femme, heterosexual, pearls, pregnancy, raw food, recipes, vegan, vegetarian |
THE GREAT VITAMIN DEBATE
Written by Miss Bliss on March 31, 2008 – 6:31 pm -Do you take vitamins? I rarely - if ever - take vitamins. When I do, they often give me a stomach ache, and as I become healthier, I listen to my body. If a food or supplement makes me feel sick, that tells me I should not eat it.
When you become vegetarian, everyone asks the same questions, “How do you get protein?” and “Are you taking enough vitamins and supplements?” It is hard for many Americans to believe that one can stay healthy eating fruits, vegetables, grains, seeds and nuts alone. When I tell them I get my protein from veggies and nuts and the occasional egg, and never take vitamins, they look at me like I am crazy. “What about the B-vitamins? Vegetarians have to take B-vitamins!”
SHOULD VEGETARIANS TAKE VITAMINS?
A couple of years ago, I started going to a wonderful chiropractor in New York’s West Village. In the early 1980s, he participated in a longitudinal study researching the effects of vitamins on the body. After five years of medical doctors, researchers, and holistic practitioners studying patients and recording data, he said the only vitamin that the body absorbed in pill-form was Vitamin C. “Vitamins,” he told me, “are best absorbed into the bloodstream and the body when they come from whole, unprocessed food.”
Many friends I know swear by vitamins and say they give them more energy and make them more immune to colds and flus. Many medical doctors say that it is always a good idea for adults 40 and over to at least take a multivitamin daily.
For my birthday, my man gave me a copy of Michael Pollan’s new book, In Defense of Food: An Eater’s Manifesto. Pollan argues that prevailingly scientific research has not improved our health, but made us fat and diseased. For decades, scientists have supported “nutritionism”; the theory that health does not come from whole food, but the individual nutrients within food. It is not the orange that is good for you, but the vitamin C within the orange. In “nutritionism,” then, vitamin C can be removed from the orange, be made into a pill, and be considered equally as “nutritious.” But what if there is something else within the orange that helps humans to absorb the natural vitamin C?
IF I CAN’T GET VITAMINS FROM PILLS, WHAT SHOULD I BE EATING?
1. “Eat mostly plants, especially leaves.” From interviewing numerous nutritionists, Mr. Pollan says that the best place to get Vitamin C and many other nutrients necessary for vibrant health, is to eat leaves. Obviously, when he says “leaves”, he means salad: lettuce, spinich, kale, mustard greens, chard, mixed greens, etc. One thing scientists do agree on, he says, one can never eat too many greens.
2. Where do I get vitamin B12? Vegetarians need to be concerned about Vitamin B12 because the only natural source for it is in meat or bacteria. However, Mr. Pollan points out, humans need only a very small amount of B12 and vegetarians may get enough from eating fermented produce or fermented teas, like Kombucha. The Vegetarian Society disagrees with this statement and argues that “the only reliable unfortified sources of vitamin B12 are meat, dairy products and eggs.” They recommend that vegans eat food fortified with B12. One egg a week will supply a vegetarian with enough B12 to not need to take supplements.
3. Juicing! If you missed my blog, Drink Your Vegetables, I recommend checking it out. Juicing fresh, organic vegetables is a great way to inject pure vitamins and minerals directly into your bloodstream.
DO YOU TAKE VITAMINS?
Once again, many people have many different opinions about what vitamins you should take when. I would like to hear from you, darling readers. What vitamins are you taking? Do you feel better than when you aren’t taking vitamins? Let me know!
XOXOXOXOXOXO
BLISS WARRIOR
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IF YOU ENJOYED READING THIS BLOG, YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY READING:
THE ONLY ZERO CALORIE SWEETENER THAT WON’T CAUSE CANCER
GET SKINNY EATING DECADENTLY
BLISS, HELP US BECOME VEGETARIANS!
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Posted in HEALTH, Uncategorized, chiropractic, dieting, natural health, vitamins |
THE DRUG-FREE SOLUTION TO HEADACHES
Written by Miss Bliss on February 27, 2008 – 12:24 pm -Darling Bliss Readers,
When I was in junior high school, I began developing horrible migraine headaches. This was not a surprise to me, as both my mother and grandmother suffered from frequent headaches. I quickly learned that if I did not take a painkiller before the headache was full-blown, I would get sick to my stomach and the only solution would be ice packs, darkness and sleep.
So, like my mother, I was prescribed a high dosage of Motrin (800mg) and began taking that or Ibuprophen every morning to avoid a potential headache later. Taking medication for the prevention of headaches became a norm for me.
In my early thirties, I became vegetarian and began researching natural health remedies. I slowly stopped using all headache medications and started a daily exercise routine. For awhile, the headaches seemed to be stopping.
At the time, I was attending UCLA graduate school full-time and was on the computer all day for the first time since college. By the end of work and class, I tended to have headaches. Since UCLA provided free health-care, I made an appointment with a doctor. Naturally, the doctor’s remedy was to give me a stronger painkiller than Motrin. I declined the prescription.
As I was leaving, the nurse who did my initial paperwork pulled me aside. “We’re not supposed to do this,” she said. “But I used to have terrible headaches and the solution was chiropractic.”
“Really,” I asked.
“Go to a chiropractor, sweetie. You won’t need any more painkillers.”
A friend recommended her chiropractor and I quickly learned the headaches I experienced were caused by the neck vertebra putting pressure on the nerves in the spinal chord. After a few adjustments, the headaches stopped.
Now, I only visit a chiropractor if I get a headache and those are rare.
Since I know the cause of the pain is in my neck, I have learned yoga stretches to stretch the neck muscles and realign the vertebra. Now, by stretching or by getting an amazing massage from my man, I can ease the pain myself. [Make sure to visit a chiropractor or yoga instructor before stretching your neck. The neck is fragile and you need to stretch it properly with supervision.]
So the next time you get a bad headache, reach for the phone instead of the medicine cabinet. Call a chiropractor and get healthy naturally!
XOXOXOXOXO
BLISS WARRIOR
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BLISS IS IN NEW YORK CITY TO CELEBRATE HER UPCOMING FIRST WEDDING ANNIVERSARY!
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Thank you to all the marvelous girls who have offered to help beta test the new community site for bi-girls and their girl friends: Hotel Bliss.
As soon as the site is ready for testing, I will e-mail you an invitation to join the slumber party and check-in to Hotel Bliss.
Want to help us make Hotel Bliss the site to answer the question, How do I meet a bi-girl? Help us beta test the site.
E-mail me for more information at: BLISS@BLISSWARRIOR.COM.
Posted in chiropractic, headaches, painkillers |
SHARING THE SAME SPERM: A LOVE STORY
Written by Miss Bliss on February 6, 2008 – 4:37 pm -
“Darling, girl,” I said to her, “I cannot wait for your book to come out.”
While my husband and I were in Miami, we had the pleasure of dining with our good friend, Andrea Askowitz and her beautiful new girlfriend, Victoria. We first met Andrea in Los Angeles while she was pregnant, single, and writing her upcoming memoir, My Miserable, Lonely, Lesbian Pregnancy.
“May 1, 2008 is the due date. I’m finally having a book,” Andrea said. Curly haired and fiercely funny, Andrea’s book chronicles her artificial insemination and lonely pregnancy as a single mother-to-be.
“When we first met,” said Victoria with a sexy Spanish accent, “I just fell in love with Andrea, and her daughter is so gorgeous! Such a sweet girl.”
“Her daughter is beautiful, isn’t she,” I replied.
“We haven’t seen the little one in over a year,” my man said.
“I wish you could have seen her, but it’s good for us to have a night out once in awhile,” said Andrea.
“She amazes us. She’s so smart, so kind… Just the most perfect little girl.” Victoria smiled and touched Andrea’s hair. “You two don’t know how lucky I am to have met Andrea. When I read her book - you know she has that one chapter where she tries to make love to a man who has come to massage her…”
“That is an amazing chapter,” I said, proud to have been in the same writing workshop with Andrea when she read it for the first time. “A lot of people don’t realize that some lesbians occasionally enjoy being with men or even want to be with a man.”
“I know,” Victoria explained. “I read it and said, ‘This is so hot. You have to expand it. I want to hear more!’”
“See,” Andrea said, “Victoria’s like me. A proud Lesbian Bisexual.”
“I read a study somewhere,” I said, “where lesbians, over the course of their lifetime, tend to have more male sexual partners than straight women do.”
“Really,” Andrea asked. “I guess that makes sense.” We threw around some theories as to why that may be true and decided the cool lesbians were more open to all sorts of sexual encounters as they discovered and defined their own sexual identity. Some girls had to experiment with men and women until they found the right partner and the sexual orientation that fit them.
“Did we tell you that Victoria’s trying to get pregnant,” Andrea asked, changing the subject.
“You are? That’s wonderful,” I said.
“Are you being artificially inseminated like Andrea was,” my husband asked.
“Yes,” Victoria said beaming and Andrea kissed her on the cheek. “I’m on the hormones now. We’re using #3342’s sperm.” In Andrea’s memoir, #3342 is an important - albeit absent - character. The tall, brilliant, anonymous sperm donor who Andrea chose to be inseminated with is only referred to in her book (and in her life) as his donor id: #3342. Victoria continued, “Andrea’s daughter and my baby will be siblings! Little did Andrea know when she purchased eight extra vials of #3342’s sperm and froze it, that someday her girlfriend would use it to get pregnant.”
“That is the most romantic and beautiful story I’ve heard,” said my man.
“Isn’t it,” Andrea said with joy.
“It is,” I said smiling. “Do you want to get pregnant again, Andrea?”
“Didn’t you read my book? No way! No more pregnancies for me.”
We laughed as my man and I held each others’ hands, delighted that science had made a new type of family possible.
XOXOXOXOXO
BLISS WARRIOR
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INTERESTED IN READING ANDREA ASKOWITZ’S MEMOIR, MY MISERABLE, LONELY, LESBIAN PREGNANCY?
check out her site at andreaaskowitz.com and her blog http://andreaaskowitz.wordpress.com/
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Posted in IDENTITY, RELATIONSHIPS, books, couples, dating girls, girls kissing, lesbian, pregnancy |
ASK MISS BLISS - IS RICE MILK RIGHT FOR YOU? & CAN MY TODDLER BE VEGAN?
Written by Miss Bliss on February 4, 2008 – 6:23 am -
Hi Bliss,
I know that Rice Milk doesn’t pack the protein punch of soy or almond milk, but how does it fare nutritionally? Better or worse than soy?
Yours,
Dairy Free
Dearest Dairy Free,
There are three types of dairy-free milks sold in most health food stores today: (1) soy milk, (2) rice milk, and (3) almond milk. All three come in various flavors including plain, vanilla, chocolate, unsweetened, and sometimes, carob. (Carob unsweetened almond milk is hard to find, but one of my personal favorites. Add a little agave nectar and it is just dreamy!)
SOY MILK
Soy milk is the only vegan milk that is comparable to cow milk in terms of protein content. Cow milk has 8 grams of protein, and soy milk can have between 8 and 11 grams of protein per serving. So if you are concerned you are not getting enough protein in your vegan or vegetarian diet, you may want to include soy milk as a part of your daily diet.
As I mentioned in my blog, Is Too Much Soy Dangerous?, soy may be dangerous for non-Asian women with family histories of breast cancer. However, soy milk is safe if you limit total daily soy consumption to one glass of soy milk a day and one serving of tofu (or other traditional soy product).
RICE MILK
Dearest Reader, you are correct when you write that rice milk does not have the protein and good fats that soy milk has. Rice milk is packed with carbohydrates and should not be considered a nutritional replacement for dairy milk because it lacks the fat and protein found in other milks. Most rice milk brands are sweetened with brown rice syrup or evaporated cane juice, which ups the sugar, carbs, and calorie content. However, its sweet taste does make it an excellent replacement for dairy in baked goods.
Rice milk is also low in protein content, having 1 to 2 grams of protein per serving. So why would you choose rice milk over soy, cow and almond milk? If you have nut allergies, are lactose-intolerant and/or have a history of breast cancer in your family, rice milk may be the right vegan milk for you.
ALMOND MILK
Believe it or not, store-bought almond milk is NOT high in protein. Most brands of almond milk sold in stores have only 1 gram of protein per cup. However, “what sets almond milk apart is its high vitamin E content. According to Blue Diamond Growers’ specifications, one cup of almond milk (240 ml) contains 14.99 IU of natural vitamin E (d-alpha-tocopherol). In contrast, the USDA nutrient database reports one cup of soymilk has 3.31 mg alpha-tocopherol and 1.35 mg vitamin E added” (click here to read “Thoroughly Modern Milk”).
If you make almond milk yourself, and do not strain out the almond pulp, you may get up to 5 grams of protein per serving. Raw vegan enthusiasts say it can be easy to make your own almond milk. Take a cup of raw, organic almonds, soak them in purified water overnight, drain and rinse them in the morning, then blend with four cups of water in a high-speed blender. The milk will be chalky when it is not strained, but it will be full of all the protein , fats, and nutrients almonds are famous for. According to sixwise.com, “Almonds are one of the healthiest nuts you can eat. They’re rich in magnesium, potassium, manganese, copper, the antioxidants vitamin E and selenium, and calcium. Almond milk, then, may be one of the more nutritious milk alternatives on the market.”
Vegan milks have no cholesterol or saturated fat and are lower in calories than milk. They are lactose-free, environmentally sustainable, and do not harm animals when produced. Based on your protein needs and your personal family history, I am sure you will find the vegan milk that is right for you.
XOXOXOXOXO
BLISS WARRIOR
Dear Miss Bliss,
I am making the slow transition into veganhood, if you will. My daughter is only two, though. I do not give her meat, but obviously she consumes a lot of other dairy products, mostly milk. I was wondering if you knew any healthy alternatives to cow’s milk for a thriving two year old toddler?
XOXOXO
Vegan Mom
Dear Vegan Mom,
After your child is six months old, almond milk can be used instead of cow milk. Raw food enthusiast, Gabriel Cousens, M.D., recommends breastfeeding your child for the first six months, and then introducing almond milk as a breast milk supplement.
Soy milk and soy products should be avoided as soy is already being overused in baby food and processed foods to up protein counts. Many health advocates say that more research needs to be done to see how high levels of soy protein affect children. According to the Vegetarian Resource Group, “Soy milk, rice milk, and homemade formulas should not be used to replace breast milk or commercial infant formula during the first year. These foods do not contain the proper ratio of protein, fat, and carbohydrate, nor do they have enough of many vitamins and minerals to be used as a significant part of the diet in the first year.”
For healthy vegan children, the Vegetarian Resource Group recommends the following diet plans:
| Table 17: Diet Plans for Vegan Children | |
| TODDLERS AND PRESCHOOLERS (AGE 1-3) | |
| FOOD GROUP | NUMBER OF SERVINGS |
| GRAINS | 6 or more (a serving is 1/2 to 1 slice of bread or 1/4 to 1/2 cup cooked cereal or grain or pasta or 1/2 to 1 cup ready-to-eat cereal) |
| LEGUMES, NUTS, SEEDS | 2 or more (a serving is 1/4 to 1/2 cup cooked beans, tofu, tempeh or TVP; or 1-1/2 to 3 ounces of meat analogue; or 1 to 2 Tbsp. nuts, seeds, nut or seed butter |
| FORTIFIED SOYMILK, ETC | 3 (a serving is 1 cup fortified soymilk, infant formula, or breast milk) [I PERSONALLY RECOMMEND ALMOND MILK] |
| VEGETABLES | 2 or more (a serving is 1/4 to 1/2 cup cooked or 1/2 to 1 cup raw vegetables) |
| FRUITS | 3 or more (a serving is 1/4 to 1/2 cup canned fruit or 1/2 cup juice, or 1 medium fruit) |
| FATS | 3 (1 tsp. margarine or oil) (use 1/2 tsp. flaxseed oil or 2 tsp. canola oil daily to supply omega-3 fatty acids) |
| CHILDREN (AGE 4-13) | |
| FOOD GROUP | NUMBER OF SERVINGS |
| GRAINS | 8 or more for 4 to 8 yr olds; 10 or more for 9 to 13 yr olds |
| PROTEIN FOODS | 5 or more for 4 to 8 yr olds; 6 or more for 9 to 13 yr olds |
| VEGETABLES | 4 or more |
| FRUITS | 2 or more |
| FATS | 2 or more for 4 to 8 yr olds; 3 or more for 9 to 13 yr olds |
| OMEGA-3 FATS | 1 per day |
| STARRED FOOD ITEMS | 6 or more for 4 to 8 yr olds; 10 or more for 9 to 13 yr olds |
Notes: Serving sizes vary depending on the child’s age.
Congratulations, wonderful reader, for choosing a healthier life for you, your child, and our environment.
XOXOXOXO
BLISS WARRIOR
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HAVE A QUESTION FOR ASK MISS BLISS? EMAIL ME AT bliss@blisswarrior.com.
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IF YOU ENJOYED READING THIS BLOG, YOU MAY ENJOY:
GET SKINNY EATING DECADENTLY
CHANGE YOUR DIET, CHANGE YOUR LIFE
BLISS, HELP US BECOME VEGETARIANS
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Posted in ASK MISS BLISS, HEALTH, NUTRITION, almond milk, breast cancer, cow milk, dairy drama, raw food, recipes, rice milk, soy, vegan, vegan children, vegetarian |
ONE FRENCH AFTERNOON - A FRIDAY NIGHT BEDTIME STORY
Written by Miss Bliss on January 18, 2008 – 12:09 am -Selma knocks on the door and you let her in. “Don’t you just love French afternoons,” she purrs with dramatic flair. She kisses you on the lips and kisses your man on the cheek. She wanders slowly into the apartment, studying the room while filling it with her ginger and grapefruit scent. She is older than you, more aggressive, and today, she wants to be your lover.Wine is poured and music plays, but there isn’t much time for small talk. Selma came over for a reason and only has an hour or two before she goes. “Dance for me,” she says to you. “Let us watch you and salivate.”
“Let me finish my drink,” you say, unnaturally shy and unexpectedly nervous.
“Take your time,” Selma says with a playful wink. “But don’t take too long.” She pats the sofa, inviting him to sit next to her, and he does. Her arm loops around his neck and you see the delight in her eyes that she gets to have him. She’s waited for him, too, but she can’t show that yet. Since the day you met in a dark candle-lit cafe, the three of you have talked about this moment, and here it is.
The first time with anyone is a little awkward, but something about the light in the afternoon makes you feel more exposed than usual. Normally you are the aggressive one, but Selma has thrown off your game by taking over control. “Dance for us,” she says again.
Downing the glass of Pinot, you slowly step out in front of them. Her eyes on you make you shy. Wearing a lace dress, with promises of good things to come underneath, you begin to move. You try to look at her and are surprised when you can’t maintain eye contact. Closing your eyes, you focus on the bass line and let your hips move back and forth in time. The music envelops you and you forget your audience. You let your hands caress the curves of your body, showing her the path her hands will soon follow. Your long painted fingers find the hem of your dress and you lift it to expose a blue satin slip underneath. You turn your back on them and, slowly, ever-so-slowly, lift the hem of your dress. Pulling the lace over your head, you turn, and toss the dress into her lap. An invitation, do you want more? They whistle, tell you how gorgeous you are, and ask to see more.
Smiling, the nerves have worn off and you feel your power. Still moving to the music, you approach her and take her small hands in yours. She stands and you pull her into you and dance with her while he watches proudly. Turning, you press your back against her warm body, reach behind, and wrap her arms around you. Together you move but this time both of your eyes are on him. Placing your hands over hers, you lead her hands down your back, over your hips, down your thighs, until her fingers find the lacy hem of your slip. She pulls it over your head, turns you to face her, and studies the black corset and stockings.
“You’re an angel,” she says, and kisses you lightly, as if asking permission. Suddenly, your roles have changed: she is no longer the aggressor, you are.
From behind, you feel him press into you and his arms surround both of you. Pulling her closer, the three of you become one: for an afternoon.
Over too soon and yet there are too many perfect images to remember. At the door, you notice the back of her hair is mussy and sticking up. You try to smooth it and she laughs and says, “Only a shower will fix that, but thank you, darling.” You wonder if your doorman will notice. She looks at him and says sincerely, “Thank you both. Until the next time.” She opens the door to go, but then, turns and shuts it just as fast. “I don’t want to leave,” she admits and melts back into both of you.
Closing the door behind her, you embrace your man, kissing his eyes, his nose, and his cheeks. He lifts you into the air and carries you back to bed.
XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXO
FRIDAY NIGHT BEDTIME STORIES BY BLISS WARRIOR
a little erotic fiction to help you sleep soundly….
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DID YOU MISS THE FIRST FRIDAY NIGHT BEDTIME STORY?
CLICK HERE TO READ WALKING HOME IN HER PANTIES
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HEY SOUTH BEACH BLISS WARRIORS! TODAY IS YOUR LAST CHANCE TO RSVP FOR SATURDAY’S BRUNCH! E-MAIL ME AT BLISS@BLISSWARRIOR.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.
Posted in BISEXUALITY, EROTIC FICTION, FRIDAY NIGHT BEDTIME STORIES, RELATIONSHIPS, SEX, alcohol, bi-girls, bisexual, bisexual girls, couples, craigslist, dating, dating girls, erotic photography, girls kissing, group sex, kissing, lingerie, love affairs, lovers, marriage |