Zhorik and a Spy House

Zhorik in his Poker Room

My friend Justin AKA Zhorik wanted to be a spy. Instead he fell in love with a Russian woman 30 years ago. Check out his Memoir on Amazon "How Not To Become a Spy" by Justin Lifflander. 

          https://www.amazon.com/How-Not-Become-Spy-memoir-ebook/dp/B00NOU9XP6

He has lived in Russia for 30 years now and currently lives in what I call a Spy House. He had it custom built and it has several surprises, tunnels, hidden doors, and more. I only spent one night there, and hope to spend more in the future. He also has a 'cabin' in the corner of his fenced in yard that he uses as a Poker House. Of course a hidden tunnel leads to it. It is a poker players dream to play in such "houses". We played poker in the regular house this trip due to snow/cold.

Notice the space helmet and other stuff.

I slept in a room that resembled a rocket. Actually, I am told it is modeled after the bridge of the Starship Enterprise! It was quite cozy and fun, complete with a green light that changed the color of the room. Star Wars and Star Trek memorabilia and a space helmet adorned the cabinets in the room. If you ever want to spend a night in a Spy's House and sleep in a rocket room, let me know. I can probably hook you up. You will have to travel to Russia to do so.

His wine cellar

After lunch the first room we visited was the wine cellar. He has quite the collection. A homemade wine cabinet is on the right wall, beautifully decorated in Russian artwork. Justin and his wife Alla are depicted on the cabinet. On the opposite wall is a hidden door.... Because after visiting the wine cellar you should really go for a swim.

The hidden door is behind the painting on the left wall.

You can not tell there is a hidden door behind the painting on the left wall. I mean it is not noticeable, and YOU CAN NOT TELL ANYONE! :0). The pool and hot tub were very inviting, but alas I was not dressed for a swim. Onto the next room...\

Combo Home Theater and Billiards Room

There are so many twists and turns and hidden passageways that I honestly don't remember how we got to this room. I imagine it could double as a bunker if there was ever a nuclear attack, but just a guess. I could sit in those comfy seats and watch movies all night!

Behind the billiards table (not z bookcase)

Ah, another hidden door and tunnel led us from the Home Theater/Billiards room to another room of intrigue and beauty. I called it the Dragon Room. Justin probably has a more formal name for it? Actually, before I posted this he informed me it is indeed called "The Dragon Room" I like it!

Dragon Room

There is a dragon on the far wall. Another one greets you with wine in it's paws as you enter the room. A small set of stairs leads you to comfortable furniture and over a small "river" that runs from the first dragon to a... I don't remember where it goes to be honest.

A secret attic to play in for the kids.

He even had a small attic made above his office space for his kids and grandkids. The children in the photo are his grandkids. Another hidden door and a secret ladder takes you up to this room, if you can find it and if you can FIT. I barely did!

A 4 season room

There are some "traditional" rooms in the house like bedrooms, kitchen, living room, etc. My favorite of these rooms was the 4 season room. It was so warm and inviting with a view of the yard with big bay windows. A great place to meditate, read or whatever.

Maria's Children artwork

Of course, Maria's Children artwork is throughout the house. This is one of my favorite pieces. As per the theme of the house, there are hidden "things" in it. Can you find the Lions, Elephants, Giraffes and Zebras? These are the 4 family groups at Maria's summer camp. You can click on the photo get a closer look if you wish.

I am posing as the picture of me on the lantern is shown. Fairly accurate. The only addition is "Freddy the Freebird" is holding my poker winnings in his mouth! Yes, I won 200 rubles in a Spy House in Russia once. Can anyone else say that? Ha ha ha!!!

Me and Guillaume

And finally, I am honored to "live" in his house for all eternity. Some of the kids made this stained glass lantern cover. Justin bought it at the auction. I am on it with Guillaume (best humanitarian clown in the world currently). On the other side are Maria and Patch. It humbles me to be in such great company, including Justin's! Thank you my friend for the fun.

Now Go Out and Hug a Friend or a Spy Today!!!