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She just sings whatever she's seen

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2018 Samhain Seven Qs

Updated 9/19/18

Shortbread? Heck yes. I am up for just about any baked good.

Is there something you’d like from the UK? Pimms is probably out, but I love UK chocos and other edibles.

Do you like Lord of the Rings? Yes, but I"m not a huge fangirl. It is one of those things where I like the movies and such and have read the books, but have no desire to do so again.

Any ceramics you could use? I can always use trays and cups for jewelry.

If you like tea and I have opened tea as well as sealed tea to send would you mind some cleanly decanted and clearly labeled tea I think you would really enjoy based on your preferences? Absolutely!

Would you like anything from my etsy shop? (http://twinklentwilight.etsy.com)
I love a lot of the fabric choices - the dragon/bat (all of the bat options, really), ravens, galaxy, Wonder Woman, Harry Potter and Dr. Who. I want something the blinded me with science for my science loving daughter and the plush monsters are adorable. I don't really knit, so I wouldn't have use for bags as project bags, but I still wants them my precious.

Are you interested in a crocheted monster or unicorn or whatever? Colors?
I am all about the fun plushies.
Lavender Vanilla Bean or Rose Petal liqueur?
Both of these sound AMAZING.

Nail stamping plates
I have no idea what these are and google isn't giving me a good sense of whether I would actually use them. I'm guessing not, since I am fumble fingers with polish and usually go to a nail salon.

knitted things:
Yes please! I would be most interested in arm warmers or socks, or maybe a shawl or cowl.

cylindrical tins:
No thank you. I have a ton of these lying about myself.

What about white witchy items (oils, sage, stones, etc).
No thank you.

What about reusable shopping bags?
If they are fun, from local places and such, sure! I don't need plain store ones and such as I have a ton, but I love getting ones from different locales.

Korean beauty items like sheet masks?
Sure!

Do you like Bath and Body Works and if so, what are your fave products/scents?
BBW is one of my guilty pleasures. I love getting shower gel/lotion combos and I love their foaming hand soap (although I have rather a lot of that at the moment, but I don't have any of their fall scents). I also like the C Bigelow nail and hand care products.

Would you like something from Walt Disney World?
I would love NMBC stuff, but other than that, I'm fine. I was just at Disneyland last December and am pretty stocked up.

So Shihaya & Co has a bunch of fantastic candles, bath & body stuff (from Paintbox Soapworks!), Arcana perfume, etc. Is there anything there you are interested in? Please list products as well as scents. (as an FYI, the Smiles by Wedelstaedt soap is make by Brooke who used to own Villainess.)
In terms of candles, Amber and Velvet, Autumnvale Cafe, Ember and Mallow, Full Moon, Gemini all sound delightful. In terms of other stuff, the Hocus Pocus soap and scrub, Bermuda Triangle soap.

What are your favorite products and scents from Paintbox Soapworks (that are in stock?)
Generally, I love her scrubs and soaps (not as fond of the lotions) I would love to try Abnoba, Indian Summer, Putney Road, Princess Pony Sparklebutt in sample sizes of either scrub or soap. I also adore the Rice Pudding hot process soap.

Fatherhood update desires? I've ordered a bunch, but have added a few that I'd still love to try to my wishlist.

Do you have any interest in fun tees or other goodies either related to your fandoms or otherwise from TeeTurtle or similar sites (https://www.teeturtle.com/)? If the answer is yes, what's your t-shirt size?
Absolutely! I prefer women's cut, 2XL for tees. Generally, darker is better in terms of color.

Do you have a favorite musical, opera, playwright or other theatrical or performing arts interest for which you might like interesting goodies? I am pretty set on this score in that I have easy access to merch along these lines.

Do you have any desire/need for a new umbrella? I always need more small collapsible ones as my children seem to have discovered some sort of portal that devours all umbrellas in the immediate vicinity.

Any desire for mugs - travel or otherwise? How about water bottles?
I am pretty set for ceramic mugs. I can always use more travel mugs if they are both cool and diswasher safe. Same for water bottles.

How do you feel about things like Halloween-themed blankets and throw pillows?
I feel great about them! We have a pumpkin pillow and spider blankie that are used year round. I'd be particularly interested in flying things - bats, owls, ravens, gargoyles in blacks and purples.

Are there any companies you've been wanting to try or would like to try more of?
I would definitely be interested in trying more soap and lotion products from Haus of Gloi and Arcana and Brooke's new stuff. I only wear BPAL perfumes, but am much more flexible with other products.

How do you feel about this: thevampstamp.com
This is pretty much the only way I could possibly attempt that sort of eyeliner, but honestly, I'd probably never use it.

Would you, or your swapee be interested in fall themed Yankee candle small candles?
Sure.

How do you feel about loose eyeshadow? (new of course)
Not really my thing. I have a bunch and while I love the colors, it's just to fussy for me to use much.

How does a scent of rose, mahagony, coffee and tobacco sound to you?
Probably not my thing (sorry!). I only wear BPAL perfumes and that's not a combo that really grabs me for bath stuff.

Is this something you, or your swapee might need or be interested in?
https://www.rekonect...ducts/rekonlife
(its a notebook with a magnetic spine and pages that can be removed and reattached) I have two that are totally unused.
No thanks.

Also, I am brewing my own kombucha now. Would you like a bottle or two?
Sure!


How do you feel about literal pumpkin *spice* - i.e. cinnamon, nutmeg, clove, ginger - as a flavoring (the inclusion of pumpkin is not essential in my plotting)? How about those flavors combined with chocolate in some mystery form?
I am all over this concept (literally).

If you like/want books, do you have a goodreads or other place where you discuss your favorite books? Would you be interested in a spooky Halloween compilation or a classic halloweenie/autumnal book like Ray Bradbury's The Halloween Tree or Something Wicked This Way Comes?
I would love a new weenie compilation (now that I think about it, that's not the word I want, but wev).
emzebel

emzebel

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2018 13 Nights of Halloween Questions~

Here is where I shall keep my questions. I shall keep my questions here.

Updated 9/19/18

What is your favorite thing about Halloween?
I answered this pretty thoroughly in my survey, I think, but kind of everything. I love celebrating with my kids and being able to buy animal skeletons at Target and the flavors and just really kind of all of it, other than not being terribly into orange and brown. I'm more of a black and purple halloweenie.

Would you like a Halloween-themed cross-stitch piece of art done by your partner? If so, do you prefer something practical, like a cross-stitch dishtowel or table runner, or something to be hung on the wall?
I would love this - something useful like a dishtowel (or bathroom towels) would be most beloved, as I have a wonderful house with very little usable wall space.

Are you coveting something from the Lilith release? I've ordered everything I super duper wanted, but there are a few that I was on the fence about in my wishlist, but hey, I'll list them here too: Absurd Origin Story; Blue Blankie; Don't Tell Me Heaven is Under the Earth; Let Your Indulgence Set Me Free; Meditation Buddy; Scorched Marshmallows; Senator Barrial; Spontaneous Argumentation; Suffragium; The Queen of Hel; The She-Goat; The Storm; Theaomai;

Have you seen the Haus of Gloi Fall update? Does anything from that tickle your fancy? I am BPAL only for oils, but I would definitely be interested in trying bubbling scrub, pumpkin butter, hair oil (would probably use for either Mo and/or cuticle oil) or soaps in Apple Milk, Blood Orange Marshmallow, and Cozy Pumpkin! The Maple Vanilla soap sounds lovely too.

Enamel pins - yay or nay? Sure, but they will likely be stolen by my little hooligan.

Would you appreciate handknits? Any preference (socks, hats, cowls, mitts, etc)
Always. Socks and arm warmers would probably get the most use, although a cowl could be cool as that's something I don't have at all.

What kind of local goods do you like to pick up/try when you visit somewhere new?
I usually look for magnets, local honey or jams or other limited reach local foodstuffs. I also love trying regional alcohol specialties, particularly whisk(e)y.

Do you like to cook or bake, and if so, would you like any cooking accessories, mixes, or ingredients?
Absolutely! I particularly love silly holiday themed spatulas and sprinkles and such. There's a bit about this in my questionnaire as well.

Pumpkin Spice:
ALL THE THINGS!

Do you like Day of the Dead goodies? I love skulls and such, but I feel weird about the cultural appropriation aspects of a lot of Day of the Dead stuff as I have no cultural or spiritual connection. That said, I have received lovely items from folks who *do* have that connection in the past. Sorry for being complicated.

How do you feel about homemade edibles? Not just baked goods, but fruit butters, jams and such-like? Do you prefer savory or sweet or yes?
All of them nommy in my mouthy. I am a total sucker for apple and pumpkin and other butters this time of year. If you have a specialty, savory or sweet, I would LOVE to try it.

Quirky Socks: Goodness yes! I especially love silly Halloween themed socks, either ankle or knee length.

Stuff from Japan: Sure! My daughter and I both love Hello Kitty and Tokidoki and are suckers for any sort of mystery plushy sorts of things. I also adore the different flavors of kitkats you can get there and similar snacky goodies.

Yankee Candle: Sure, subject to the limits in my questionnaire. I do have a fondness for Yankee - my husband used to live close to their factory store in Western MA and we would go there all the time when he was in grad school.

Bath and Body Works: Another weakness of mine - I have a bad tendency to get matching shower gel and lotions there in foodie / fruity scents. I'd also love fall scents in their foaming hand soap.

Of the latest updates, Empress, Liliths, Jester, Emperor what are your wants and desires? Recent LES from this year, what are your wants and desires? My wishlist is up to date in this respect.

What about Disney? If you like Disney, what are your favorite characters?
I love Nightmare Before Christmas and the Muppets, but am not that into traditional Disney characters. I do like some of the Villians line, especially Maleficent and Ursula.

Star wars?
YES! Leia, Rey, Yoda, droids generally other than C3P0 who I find annoying. Also porgs were the most brilliant decision ever and I adore those little space puffins with all my heart.

And what about Harry Potter? Whats your favorite house and/or favorite character? I am all about all the HP. I am a Ravenclaw through and through (Slitherclaw if we're talking hybrid houses). Fave characters are Luna Lovegood, Hermione and I am a total puppy shipper (Sirius/Remus). (FWIW, my family already owns a lot of HP stuff - scarves for every house but Slytherin, a Ravenclaw mug and water bottle, robes for me and my wee Hooligan Hufflepuff, a stuffed Hedwig and Pidwigen...which is not to say we wouldn't welcome more. )

Do you like honey/honey products?
​Would you like flavored oils or vinegars?
Answering these together because my answer is absolutely yes to all of these.

Do you have any interest in fun tees or other goodies either related to your fandoms or otherwise from TeeTurtle or similar sites (https://www.teeturtle.com/)?
Absolutely! I prefer women's cut, 2XL for tees. Generally, darker is better in terms of color.

Do you have a favorite musical, opera, playwright or other theatrical or performing arts interest for which you might like interesting goodies? I am pretty set on this score in that I have easy access to merch along these lines.

Do you have any desire/need for a new umbrella? I always need more small collapsible ones as my children seem to have discovered some sort of portal that devours all umbrellas in the immediate vicinity.

Any desire for mugs - travel or otherwise? How about water bottles?
I am pretty set for ceramic mugs. I can always use more travel mugs if they are both cool and diswasher safe. Same for water bottles.

Could you use any BPAL storage? Bottles or imps? I am set personally, but I did realize the other day that my little hooligan is developing a bit of a collection herself that is currently scattered across her dresser, so if you are feeling crafty and felt like making a bottle box in an Owl/MLP/HP-Hufflepuff theme, I would happily regift to her (otherwise I have to do it myself )

Do you like incense, palo santo, sage, etc?
Please no. Even smelling incense in the package these days can trigger my migraines, which teenager me would find tragic, but there it is.

I will be going to Son of Monsterpalooza this weekend. Anything look interesting?
I can't think of anything offhand, but if there are cool creepy jewelry vendors, that could be cool.

Wax tarts? No thank you.

How do you feel about literal pumpkin *spice* - i.e. cinnamon, nutmeg, clove, ginger - as a flavoring (the inclusion of pumpkin is not essential in my plotting)? How about those flavors combined with chocolate in some mystery form?
I am all over this concept (literally).

If you like/want books, do you have a goodreads or other place where you discuss your favorite books? Would you be interested in a spooky Halloween compilation or a classic halloweenie/autumnal book like Ray Bradbury's The Halloween Tree or Something Wicked This Way Comes?
I would love a new weenie compilation (now that I think about it, that's not the word I want, but wev).

Hat with pompom or no: I don't have a strong preference, although without is probably slightly more likely to be worn on the regular. I definitely embrace the silly, so if the hat is just screaming for some sort of embellishment, go for it.

Top 3 Weenie Wants: In terms of things I did not already order for myself:
The Hag (I wishlisted this last year and it almost jumped in my cart this year, so this is def. a top wish)
The Goat and the Vine
Pomegranate Grove: Morocco
emzebel

emzebel

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2018 Spring Cleaning Swap Qs

Updated 3/29/18 am

do you need craft supplies? What sorts?
Not particularly. I can always use craft paper and markers and other colorful drawing/kid friendly craft stuff like pipe cleaners and pompoms and such though. I have given up any hope of actually getting back into needlework while my daughter is in elementary school.

do you like fantasy type books?
Oh yes. Check out my goodreads (https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/1543793-em) for more than you could ever hope to know about my reading habits.

What format(s) do you listen to music on?
Mostly on my very old and out of date iPod that I desperately need to transfer back into itunes. Otherwise, I do listen to the occasional cd still in my car, and will listen to stuff off of youtube or Amazon music for that sort of streaming.

Anyone have kids or otherwise can repurpose toys, like Barbies in very good condition, etc?
I do have a kid who would not necessarily be opposed to Barbies and the like. She doesn't play with them a ton, but free is free.

are you interested in preloved tees like BPTP ones? If so, styles and size?
I can wear tissue tees in XL, would need XXL for anything else. I pretty much only wear babydolls and tunics these days.

Do you have a need for costuming pieces? Anything specific you’d like/ not like?
I can't think of anything specific, to be honest. I don't have the time/patience/extroversion to cosplay, although in theory, I would love to.

Interested in vinyl art toys (kid robot & such)?
Sure! Anything for my fandoms that I mentioned in my survey, plus/or specifically because I am too lazy to look it up - Harry Potter, Star Wars, Wonder Woman, Nightmare Before Christmas, Groot, female characters generally, Doctor Who, random super coolness...

I have collected art faster than I can frame it. Anyone interested in prints from Independant artists or do you have a specific decorating scheme happening in the house? (Which is, of course, ok)
I have the same problem, to be honest. I have so many cool things, including some total awesomeness from previous swaps, and not a whole lot of usual wall space thanks to the way my main living areas are laid out.

Do you use K-Cups and would you like a variety of coffee/tea?
I don't use them at home, but would get some use out of them at work.

I've done a few subscription boxes in the past, mostly like Birchbox, Ipsy, Sephora.. sometimes I get samples that I either won't try at all, or I try once and go "not for me." - How do you feel about cosmetic samples as long as they're "clean?" (I wouldn't pass on anything liquid that could have been contaminated, unless it's unopened, but I also have things like spray-on products, which I'd consider uncontaminated due to the nature of dispensing.)
That would be totally cool.

Buying fandom related and "cute" items is my guilty pleasure. That's why I have way too many of them. Are any of the following characters appealing to you?
Harry Potter/Hedwig, Disney, Beauty and the Beast, Little Mermaid/Flounder, Grumpy Cat, Pusheen, Hello Kitty, Pokemon? If there's another character that I've forgotten to mention that ís appealing to you, please tell!
Definitely Harry Potter/Hedwig, Grumpy Cat, Pusheen, anything Hello Kitty/Sanrio, anything from any of my other listed fandoms. Also, pretty much any of the cute little Japanese mystery bag sort of thing, Tokidoki, etc. Basically, I have a 7 year old who will glom on anything super cute.

Would you like to receive silver rings that are worn but still look like new? If so: what ringsize do you wear? And any specific styles that you like?
Or silver earrings (brandnew)?
I don't really wear rings other than my wedding and engagement rings (on separate fingers for reasons). Artsy dangly silver earrings are absolutely wanted if they are either hoops or have hooks. No posts, please.

Do you like animals? If so: any favorites? (Yes! Buying animal related items is another guilty pleasure of mine 🙃 I'm also a photographer and have many animal pictures printed)
Birds - especially owls and other raptors, flying creatures generally, sea creatures, lizards, spiders, bats, frogs, cats. So, er, yes?

Anyone interested in fragrance oils (non BPAL) for soap or candle making, materials to make lip balm?
I would not get any use out of non-BPAL fragrance oils or other soap/candle supplies. Lip balm is kind of intriguing, though.

Jewelry making supplies?
I should say no to this as well. I have a ton of supplies...somewhere in the depths of boxes moved 2 years ago.

Lularoe Leggings? Don't worry, they're NEW and never worn. Would you like them? What is your size? What about other Lularoe clothes?
Sure! I am a TC for LLR leggings, 2xl for Julias and Randys and Madison (I think? The skirt with pocketses), M or L for Irmas, M for Lindsey, L for Sarah & the fringy kimono thing, XL for most everything else I've tried. I haven't bought any of the newer styles that have come out in the past year or so like the jean jackets and such. If you have kids stuff lying around, my daughter is a L/XL in the leggings and an 8 in anything else.

Which reminds me, I have a pair of knock-off leggings with bits of Hamlet written on them that my teenager rejected, OS, never worn. Hamlet leggings, anyone?
These sound AWESOME, but probably too small.

Could you use Melitta filters for coffee?
No thank you.

New - Jewelry making addendum: Gemstones?
Probably not.

Cookbooks (or Magazine back issues) anyone?
I would take fun geekery ones off your hands (I have a Doctor Who cocktail book, but otherwise, not others), or specifically baking, cocktails or Instant Pot/pressure cooking. Otherwise, this is an area I kind of desperately need to purge.

Table cloths, placemats, runners, napkins, dish towels?
Fun graphic dishtowels, yes. My kitchen decor is best described as "eclectic randomness". Just plain or floral or country kitcheny anything will probably languish. Same with napkins and placements. I always mean to use them, but rarely get around to it.

BPAL storage boxes?
I could find a use for one, especially if it were just a box without dividers.

5 strange things, off the top of your head that you need?
Folders and/or file envelopes for organizing paperwork; large printable address stickers (the half-sheet print it out from Paypal/USPS size); fabric organization bins (I have a friend who does Thirty-One and she's always pushing those things, but I cannot bring myself to pay their prices); cuticle oil/cream - my fingers are a disaster; Sharpie type markers

Cookie cutters? Cookie press/cake decorating kit? Mini muffin tins?
Yes to all! Although I have a lot of cookie cutters, so would be most interested in fun geeky shapes.

Are you traveling or contemplating traveling anywhere? I may have a book for that. Not necessarily guidebook, but fiction or non-fiction related to your destination.
Fun! This summer we are going to Grand Teton and Yellowstone with stopovers in Salt Lake City and probably Craters of the Moon in Idaho.

A knight-light? (nightlight shaped like a knight, get it?) Or a plain old still in packaging nightlight?
Sounds fun, but I will pass. I don't have a lot of outlets in places where (k)night-lights would be practical.

I have blank BPAL bottle stickers and CDs for burning...
Not sure if this was actually a question, but I could definitely use blank bottle stickers. I do not need blank CDs.

Could you use any spices, herbs, or salt?
I do not need any plain salt, but I would definitely make use of salt/spice mixtures, or just spice mixtures. Plain spices and dried herbs, I'm pretty good on.

What about reusable totes or bags?
If something is super super cool, sure, but just generic bags from the grocery store, no thanks.

If you're collecting or trying Discworld books, what's the next Discworld novel you'd like to read?
I don't think we have Raising Steam. Otherwise, I think we have them all, but they are in boxes scattered about at the moment.

Would you be ok with a least favorite scent note in a shower gel, soap, scrub, or lotion if it's mixed in a blend of other notes and isn't prominent? or is it totally a no? And are you good with lotions/candles/scrubs/etc. that don't have either your favorite OR least favorite notes in them?
Jasmine is pretty much always a no, and a migraine trigger (although night blooming and sambac can *sometimes* be okay, but are iffy), and oakmoss and poppy/opium notes tend to overwhelm everything else for me, so I'd rather not have anything with those. Otherwise, I am usually okay with things like red wine and strawberries in bath products.

What about colors of things like nail polish? If I don't have your favorite color(s), do you still want polish?
I would lean toward no on polish unless you have something really incredibly glittery bright and fun that you feel like really needs to come to me. Please don't send neutrals or pastels.

New question: do you have a bathtub? Would you like to receive a bubble bar?
Sadly no and no. I am hoping to change this in the next year, but in the meantime, I have too many things I cannot really use already.

how do you feel about knitted things?? More specifically washcloths or scarves?? Colors you love/hate? And fibers you like or don’t like??
I really do not need more scarves. Washcloths/dishcloths, definitely. I prefer brights to neutrals, natural fibers to synthetic.

Do you have a preference for more fitted women's style tees, or are you fine with a basic crew neck?
Definitely more fitted women's styles. Men's style crew neck tees make me look like I am wearing a sack of boobs.

If you were given a choice of a top that was navy and tan stripe vs a more cobalt blue base with a jewel tone stained glass pattern, does one or the other sound preferable? Neither? Both?
This isn't really fair for me to answer, since I know what each one looks like but generally speaking, I do not wear tan and if I do, I pair it with black mainly in order to wear very specific shoes. So definitely the jewel tone for me. (Disclosure, I love the jewel tone top, but it is too small.)

Are you okay with receiving a book that is completely within your areas of interest, but that is in the middle of a series? (Assume a standalone storyline that might reference events in prior books but that is not dependent on them.)
With the caveat assumption, sure. If it picks up in the middle of the plot, I will be sad.

Would you be interested in graphic novels within your areas of interest?
Absolutely.

Would you be interested in new or very gently worn shoes, if so, what size?
Yes, for sure, as long as the heels are not over an inch or so. Size 8US (can sometimes wear 7.5 or 8.5 if they run big or small respectively).

Do you enjoy Tokidoki?
YES!!! I mostly enjoy it vicariously through my daughter, but please send it all our way.
Would you like fabric with one of your favorite fandom on it but chibi/cute style characters?
I really should say no to this, but I am gonna say yes anyway because cutified versions of my favorite things are like ultra faves.

I have a bunch of baking ingredients in my pantry that need to be used up. Would you be interested in receiving any baked goods (like cookies or scones)?
Either cookies or scones or pretty much anything baked goods wise would be awesome. I do have a particular fondness for scones.

Any interest in books about learning other languages?
Not really.

Any interest in reading poetry or plays?
Absolutely!

Do you enjoy audiobooks?
I do - I have discovered they are a great way to experience a lot of the classic literature that I tend not to enjoy reading in printed form.

Any of this year's Lupers you still need/want to try?
Anything I am still interested in is in my wishlist.

Could you use any tealights?
No thank you. I have more candles that I can ever hope to use.

I have an extra book light. Could you use one?
Sure, especially if it is made for an actual book. I have one that I got to use with my old Kindle e-reader, but it doesn't translate well to actual paper books.

Any BPTP swag you would like or are in search of (stickers, bumper stickers, pins, etc.)?
Nothing in particular.

Would you like any unused tins for tea storage?
Please please please do not send me more tea tins. I have dozens lying around that my son keeps swearing he is going to use for projects.

Would you be happy to receive homemade jams/jellies?
Always!!!

Gardening stuff and or seeds?? yay or nay? If yes, whats your climate/zone?
This is one of those questions that I want to say yes to, but I know that things will never get used. Maybe wildflower seeds (zone 7a) as we always want more pollinators in our yard. We don't have a veggie garden or anything.

Yay or nay? accessory scarves? yknow, the sheer or silky kind? colors, length?
Nay on this. I have a bunch that I never wear and, in fact, really hope my dustpan answers this one, as I have several that should go to new homes.

Tabletop gaming stuff? Board games? Yay or Nay
Yay! Anything Munchkin, D&D, Warhammer or military gaming will get swooped up by the 9th grader, but that's cool. Otherwise, we have a fair amount, but the more the merrier.
emzebel

emzebel

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2018 Imbolic Swap QA

Updated 1/2/18 pm

Do you use, or are you interested in, Twilight Alchemy Lab oils? I have dabbled a bit and find White Light to be useful for working through uncontrollably stressful, although I have no clue where my tiny stash of TALs even are. I am more on the interested in the mythology, not really a practitioner side of things, so if you have oils on hand that you think might be useful in terms of focusing intent for any of my obstacles or interests, I would be happy to receive decants (and instructions). I'm unlikely to go through a whole bottle of anything.

Physical books or ebooks, and if the latter, what format? For straight non-image intensive books, I have a slight preference for Kindle. For comics/graphic novels/interactive/illustrated books, I have a preference for physical books (and used are totally fine in that regard). I do have a Kindle fire in addition to my Paperwhite, so if it's easier or significantly cheaper to send the Kindle version of a comic or something, that's fine. I read them on my Fire on the regular. What I cannot imagine is trying to read something like House of Leaves or Infinite Jest via kindle.

Do you have any interest in receiving items and instructions for a simple Imbolc ceremony/ritual, or do you prefer more pragmatic/prosaic gifts? I am more interested in Imbolic as a historical and cultural touchpoint than in terms of actual ceremony, so while I would potentially be interested in reading about it, I would be unlikely to actually perform a ceremony or ritual.

Poetry, foreign language, facing page translation: how do you feel about these things, in combination? I love poetry and don't read it nearly enough, so I would be happy to receive such a thing.

Any favorite plants? I like plants generally, but kill them, so I definitely do not want actual plants. In terms of depictions of plants, I lean more toward animals than plants, but I generally like trees, especially birches and non-cacti succluents.

Any favorite quotes or sayings? My motto is "Pain is no stronger than the resisting force pain calls up in me. The struggle is equal." From Partuition by Mina Loy (my fave poet).

What are your feelings on glitter, sparkle, and metallics? Very very positive.

Would you enjoy a journal or sketchbook to exercise your creativity in? Theoretically yes, but I have so many notebooks of this sort lying around that I should say no.

Yule decants? There are definitely some Yules on my wishlist that I would be interested in trying. Really anything on my wishlist is fair game (although I did just acquire Jersey Devil and Scheherazade, so I need to check them off of my bottle list).

If you knit or crochet... Unfortunately, this is not a talent I have ever been able to cultivate.   Do you have any favourite gem/semi-precious/other type of stones? I tend to like gemstones in classic jewel tones - sapphire, emerald, amethyst, garnet are all good, also marcacite and other glittery dark tones.   Do you have a firepit or fireplace? I do - technically both, but we don't use the fire places at all, and don't use the fire pit this time of year.
emzebel

emzebel

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2017 Solstice Swap Q&A

Updated 11/18/17

Any Weenies you missed out on?
My wishlist is up-to-date (through Yule! OMG!)

Are you Amazon & Etsy Wishlists up to date? They are - Amazon definitely, although it is a little scattered, but anything on there is stuff I would still like. Etsy hasn't been updated in a while, so I'm not sure how much is still available, but anything on there that is not on my "I own this" or other specialized list is fair game.

How do you feel about animated films? I generally like them, but I am a bit...oversaturated on animation with a 7 year old in the house. And we have a TON of them.

Does anyone need any cosmetic or larger bags? I do really like the box bags, but I'm not sure what I would put in it. I would love something like a hand bag or shopping bag, though.

If I were to knit you something like fingerless mitts, do you like short or long over the fingers? To the wrist, mid arm, or to the elbow? Thumb or a thumb hole? Frilly or not? Preferred color? I prefer gloves a little past the wrist and midlength up my fingers. My armwarmers with a thumb hole and open fingers that I can bury my fists in tend to get the most use, since I'm usually wearing them when my Reynauds flares up and my office is freezing. Colors - dark. Black, dark grey, peacock blue, red, dark green are colors I could acutally use. I have a couple of purple pair already. Not frilly.

Is there a book you've always meant to read, but never got round to it? There is a bunch on my various wishlists. The main thing I'm kind of jonesing for that I should really just buy myself is the Bitch Planet graphic novel.

If you've expressed an interest in candles, do you prefer unscented or scented and if the latter, what scents? No candles for me please!

Do you like windchimes or other similar tinkley noisemakers? I love windchimes, also holiday themed bell ornaments, sleigh bell sort of things are lovely.

Do you/would you like Christmas/holiday music? If so, any particular genres or styles? I think I touched on this in my questionnaire, but I LOVE holiday music, especially rock/punk/goth versions of classics.

Do you have a Goodreads? Is it useful for my stalking purposes? I do and it is and I know I addressed this in my survey.

Are there any holiday movies or shows you would particularly love to get your hands on? I have a lot of holiday shows already, so I am probably set.

Would you prefer your nourishment to be literal (i.e., actual food) or representative? I don't have a strong preference, so whatever seems to sing to you is great!

In terms of actual food, are you comfortable with homebaked goodies so long as potential allergens are not involved? Absolutely!

Do you have favorite holiday foodstuffs? All the cookies! I bake fruitcake every year and then do a baking day with my stepmom where we make peppermint sugar cookies, coconut lime snowballs, and bunches of other noms. I welcome anything decadent, boozy (I love rum/whiskey balls, cocktails, etc), or any other specialty of your house.

Are you adverse to burning things as part of your sacrifice? No incense or anything like that please, but if it involves lighting paper on fire in a sink or something, that's fine.

So how do you feel about teas? Would you be interested in getting some for your "nourishment" part of your gift? If so, are there particular companies you love or have always wanted to try? Special varieties you like- holiday blends, or decaf or solid standards like Earl Grey or Sencha? I have an awful lot of tea, so I should probably pass, but I do love me some holiday blends and Earl Grey variations (or other things flavored and/or scented as such).

And what about tea accouterments, like rock sugar, nice honey (I have a fabulous apiary that is literally 6 blocks from my house!), a special spoon? Honey is always welcome in my house. I don't really need other items, though.

Or maybe coffee is more your thing? I have access to an incredible little shop that sells some of the best bean I've ever had (let me put it this way- even when I lived in Coffee Capital SEATTLE, I had bean delivered to me from this place!). If you like coffee, what kinds? (this place does AMAZING DECAF as well as the strong stuff!). And would you want your beans whole or ground (if ground, what grind do you like?) Coffee is always welcome! NO DECAF please, but anything else, including flavored, is great. I prefer whole beans, but can accommodate either.

Scented candle lovers: do you have a favorite store/brand? Aaaaah. Stop tempting me with candles! (I love them, I just have waaaaaay too many.)

Favorite/Least favorite bath products (e.g. do you like scrubs, bar soap, gel)? I don't have a tub right now, so nothing bath only. Otherwise, I like pretty much everything *except* non-cleansing scrubs. I just don't have the time to wash and scrub, so I need to combine that part of the process.

What sounds are comforting for you? Any that bring up good memories? Waves/water sounds, bird song that isn't too shrill.

Do you like and use christmas/other celebration decorations, baubles and the like? HO HO yes. We bought a new pre-lit tree this past weekend and I am seriously tempted to put it up this Sunday (normally we wait until the day after Thanksgiving, at least). I am not big into "country Christmas" motifs or overtly religious iconography, but bring on the Santas and snowmen and reindeer and silly animals in santa hats.

Last year, some of us that participated in this swap received singing bowls for our "sound" item. Would YOU like to receive a singing bowl? Sure! I might have to steal it back from my spouse, but that is totally fine.

Would you mind receiving a pre-loved book (one in good condition)? Not in the slightest!

How do you feel about fruitcake, assuming that I can make it without any stated allergens? I love love love fruitcake and any other fruity holiday baked good (stollen, panatella, etc)

How about rum/whiskey/bourbon balls (these are no-cook, so the alcohol is still pretty potent)? Sure! I will probably make some of my own this year, but I love trying other people's recipes. All alcoholic holiday goodies are welcome.

What is your favorite store-bought holiday treat? I love those little Pepperage Farm gingerbread people, marshmallow santas, maple sugar candy, marzipan...the list, it goes on and on.
emzebel

emzebel

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2017 12 Days of Christmas Answers Etc.

Updated 11/11/17

Are you coveting anything currently available from Haus of Gloi?
I am not terribly familiar with Haus of Gloi, but the bubbling scrub and pumpkin butter looks good and the Blood Orange Marshmallow scent sounds right up my alley, as do a lot of the yule scents.

Are you coveting anything from the Paintbox Soapworks update that just happened?
Winter Stories, O Tannenbaum - soap or scrub.

Are you coveting anything from Cocoa Pink?
I don't really use CP.

Do you have feelings about fruitcake? We're talking whiskey soaked homemade fruitcake, not a brick in a festive tin.
Personally, I love it and am happy to receive any festive fruity bread product.

Any strong nail polish and/or makeup preferences?
Personally the brighter and sparklier the better for all of it. Except blush. I don't wear blush at all.

How do you feel about pomanders?
I definitely enjoy them!

How do you feel about savor soaps?
I do like what I've tried - I would probably be more into the soap scrubs or whipped soap than the soap itself.

Or Perfectly Posh?
I know nothing about this brand at all. But if something looks like I'd like it, I'd be happy to try it!

Favorite animals?
Bats, owls, spiders, frogs, cats, dinosaurs, cephalopods...not the most Christmassy of critters, but I am a sucker for cute animals in santa hats.

Weird question, but it's on my mind: Do you have a strong preference for consumables (soaps, candles, food, etc.) over other stuff?
Not really.

Would you be interested in one of the Colorpop pallets? Anything else from Colourpop?
I tend to prefer shadow crayons to pressed shadow and honestly none of them really pops out at me, no pun intended. I am curious about the liquid lip color, though.
Would you like any holiday music? if so, do you prefer a CD or MP3?
Yes! I'd prefer CDs or Amazon music - I especially like rock and roll versions of classics.

Do you like toffee or fudge?
Fudge, absolutely. Not a big fan of toffee.

Are you interested in anything from my etsy shop? https://www.etsy.com...winklentwilight(bags, stuffies, hats, fingerless mitts, lefse cozies...)
I absolutely love all of the stuffies! I really like the geeky print project bags, but don't have a lot of use for them, unless they were modified to be more like a handbag.

How do you feel about amigurumi (little crochet stuffies...animals, characters, ornaments, etc.)?
I think they are adorbs!

If I were to crochet you something wearable, do you have any preferences? Do you like hats, scarves, gloves, other? And would you prefer something fun and whimsical (e.g. fox face hat or owl mittens), something delicate and pretty (e.g. lacy wraps or scalloped boot cuffs), or just something like a basic, no frills beanie or cowl? Do you have a Ravelry account and a list of favorite patterns?
No ravelry account. I would especially love something fun and whimsical, a shawl or really big scarf would be especially cool.

What kind of hot drinks do you like, and if tea or coffee or cocoa or cider or alcohol, give specifics?
Please NO cocoa. Honestly, I'd probably prefer no tea at this point as well, as I have way too much of both. Coffee would be great - I have a grinder and would be particularly interested in seasonal flavors or local roasts. And I LOVE mulled white wine and mead and cider.

What kind of candles do you like, scent, etc?
Candles and other home scents are among the things I really do not need more of this year, sorry.

Mixes or seasonings for the kitchen?
Yes please! Garlicky, spicy, are good.

What is something new in your life that you wish you had more "things" for?
Not that I can think of, but if I think of anything as I see other people answer, I'll update.

We do a lot of baking and holiday good ridiculousness around here...house specialties include lebkuchen (flourless, they're mostly nuts, spices, candied fruit), marzipan, butter caramels (flavored or plain), shortbread crisps, and savory cheese shortbread. Any of these sound appealing?
Every single one of them. *makes nommy hands*

What are your top places to get a gift card from?
Starbucks, Amazon, any B&B store you think I might like.
Which holiday symbols/themes do you like the best (or least)? Such as Santas, snowflakes, reindeer, etc.
I tend toward animals in silly Santa hats, snowmen, honestly, I like it all, but not country kitchy.
Do you like puzzles?
Yes! I love puzzles - jigsaw, little figity logic puzzles, all of them.


Do you have a strong preference for numbered packages vs randomly picking with maybe a few hints along the way?
I don't have a strong preference one way or another, so whatever your whims dictate.

Are you jonesing for any particular BPAL right now? Anything you are just dying to try, even just a sniffie?
My wishlist is pretty up to date, so there's nothing additional I really desperately want at the moment.

How do you feel about the following flavors/ingredients:
Coconut? I like it - I prefer it with creamy flavors and textures - so coconut cupcakes or coquito are amazing, not such a big fan of coconut macaroons.
Mint? I love peppermint this time of year.
Lavender? Yes!
Rosewater? Sure - I tend to like floral flavors.
Cardamom? Yes please!
Candied citrus peel/marmalade? This is one of my favorite things. Unfortunately, I am on medication that forbids grapefruit, which is one of my great sorrows ( but worth it not to migraine every day, alas).
Anything to absolutely avoid? Dill outside of pickles, BBQ or smoky flavors (I like actual BBQ, but I dislike it out of context and "smoke" flavor just tastes gross to me), blue/veiny/stinky cheeses. Really intensely bitter flavors (my 7 year old likes darker chocolate than I do).

Would you like anything crafted for the storage or transport of the BPAL? (Travel imp containers, boxes for 5mls, bottle cozy, etc.) If so, do you prefer them to be plain or decorated? If decorated, are there any motifs or art that you'd particularly like?
Not really. I don't need bottle storage, unless it comes with a magic spell that will magically organize the bottles that are all over my bedroom (I have an entire art cabinet for them, I just need to put them in there). A small imp cozy for travel wouldn't go amiss, but definitely not one of my priorities.
emzebel

emzebel

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2017 13 Nights of Halloween Notes and Queries

Updated as of 9/12 am:


Are you ok with homemade food?
Absolutely all the food (within the very broad limits of my questionnaire). I'll note that while I am intolerant of dill in most things, I do love me some pickles.

If you are ok with decorations, do you have a preference for table-top, wall hanging, or window decorations?
Tabletop or window. I don't really have wall space.

How do you feel about stationary and/or papercrafting supplies?
Not so much? I have a lot of random stationary bits and am honestly not even sure what papercrafting supplies consist of.

How do you feel about kitschy/silly Halloween jewelry?
Oh good gracious yes. ALL of the Halloween jewelry. Except zombies. Not really into zombies.

Would you like a Halloween wreath?
Absolutely, those are gorgeous.

What rares are you dying to try???
Most of my super-rare desires are also super old and in my wishlist, which I promise to make a concerted effort to update ASAP.

Do you like comic books and/or graphic novels?
I do! Most of what I have is in my goodreads, with the exception of a few things I've gotten recently. Another thing I should update. I would be particularly interested in picking up where I left off with Fables (I've read through Vol 13), or getting more LumberJanes (I've read the first vol). Oh and all of Bitch Planet.

Would you like to receive anything related to:

Disney?
Maybe if it's really super cool. My Disney fandoms tend to be ancillary - Nightmare Before Christmas, Star Wars, Muppets, some Marvel.

If so, any favorite characters?
Most anything related to the above, especially female characters and Droids for SW, Kermit for Muppets. In terms of Disney generally, the Angelina Joile Malificent, I guess. My daughter would love anything Moana.

And to be more specific about Disney: How do you feel about Beauty and the beast?
Belle was my favorite until I got old enough to look critically at the story. I have a vague interest in seeing the new one, but not burning.

And what about Harry Potter related items?
RAVENCLAW FOREVER. I mean, yes. Absolutely. If I had to pick one fandom to end all fandoms, HP is mine.

Pokemon? Any favorites?
My fave are the bats - I haven't opened Go in ages though and cannot remember their names. My daughter would love HootHoot or Snivy stuff.

Is there any thing, category, or brand from which you would absolutely NOT like to receive things (ie., you're overrun with candy corn, you don't do scents outside of BPAL, or if you ever see another Stephen King item, it will be too soon)?
I absolutely do not do perfume oil outside of BPAL. I can find uses for candy corn, so long as I open it early enough in the swap (one of the things I make for my kid's school Harvest Fest bake sale are bags of popcorn with candy corn mixed in. Easy, cheap and they go like hot cakes. Although the janitors probably loathe me.) In general, I really do not need any more candles or other home scenty things.

What kinds of art/art medium do you most enjoy, or would you most like to receive, in the context of this swap?
I would definitely be up for Halloweenie spooky things. And I always appreciate any sort of yarncraft because I just cannot get the hang of it.

Bath & Body Works - love them or hate them? If the former, fave product types?
I do like BBW shower gels and lotions, mostly, and their foaming hand soap. I probably have more of the first two than I could ever use and just placed an order, though.

I'm in Japan, is there anything specific from here you would be interested in?
Not anything specific, but I do love the variety of kit kat and other chocolate flavors you have available.

Is there anything from The Netherlands/Europe that you're interested in?
I love your licorice! And stropwaffles (which I probably just butchered), and of course, chocolate. <3

how would you feel about receiving a hand-painted container for your bpal and/or other treasures? if you are on board with that, would you want a big wood box (~50 bottles), a small wood box (~20 bottles) or a tin for carrying imps around?
I have a large cabinet that I keep things in and a few boxes as well, so I'm probably all set.

if you were to receive something hand knit, what type of item would you like? hat, cowl, handwarmers, etc. and what color(s)?
Handwarmers or a scarf would probably get the most use, but I'd love just about anything. For outerwear, neutrals like black or gray would probably be best. Handwarmers could be jewel tones of about any stripe, but I already have a couple of purple pair, so probably not that.

Nail wraps - yay or nay? Would including a small manicure set to go with them help?
I would be all over a manicure set. The one I carry in my purse has seen better days. I would be interested in Halloweenie nail wraps as long as I opened them early enough for our party on the 28th.

Do you want wax melts?
No thank you. (Also, in case I didn't make it abundantly clear, ABSOLUTELY NO incense.)
emzebel

emzebel

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12 Days of Christmas 2016

UPDATED 11/18

I love crocheting, it's my favorite hobby. Can I make you a scarf/cowl/sweater/lap blanket to keep you wintery-warm!?

Absolutely! I am not much of a cowl wearer, but otherwise, bring on all the homemade goodies, especially since yarn-craft and I do not get along.

How do you feel about knit socks? (Plain stockinette, lacework, cables, etc). Are there any other hand knit items you'd especially like? (Mittens, fingerless gloves, hats, etc).

Yes please! Fingerless gloves are another desire of mine.

How do you feel about amigurumi (i.e. little crochet toys), either characters from a fandom, wee animals, or as decorations?

I don't really have feelings about them, to be honest, which is a good excuse to show me why they are awesome! (This is as good a time as any to mention that I forgot to include Ghostbusters on my list of beloved fandoms.)

What kind of snacks do you like? Does dried fruit or crunchy dried vegetables sound appealing? Do you like (raw) honey? Jerky? Jam? What sort of local products do you like to receive as gifts? If you're familiar with products in the Pacific Northwest, is there anything specific you'd like to try?

I love dried fruit/veg/nut combos. I love honey, like good jerky, jam is fab. The only thing that jumps out at me from PNW that I wouldn't want is salmon anything. Otherwise, I love to try local snacks, bread mixes, that sort of thing.

If there's one place you could go in the world, where and why?

I really want to go to Australia and New Zealand. Truly, I want to go everywhere, but that's my next big desire.

What sort of dollar store items do you always get a kick out of?

I inevitably get distracted by the wall of tacky jewelry, but I never actually buy anything.

Do you like to receive plants or gardening stuff? Do you grow plants? What's your favourite flower, if you have one?

I would not want gardening stuff or plants. I generally prefer not to receive things I will inevitably kill. Calla lilies are my favorite flower.

If you had a custom perfume/beauty/bath product made for you, what would it be and what would the scent description look like? (everything from prose to the specific selection of notes)

Something spicy/creamy/red musky. Text would be a silly bit of poetry.

I love drawing! Either fanart chibis on the tablet or portrait work in graphite pencil... but it's been a while..so I'd love to use this as an excuse to draw something for you! If you could commission an art piece, would you choose traditional or digital artwork- and what would it be of?

I...have no idea. Sorry, that is totally unhelpful. Maybe sketches of my kids?

Have we already answered questions about Christmas tree themes for this year?
We always do a tree, but it's not themed. Generally, we do a combo of modern bright colors, ornaments from my childhood, things my kids have made, souvenirs from vacations, and whatever characters my kids are currently into.

When it comes to makeup, what is your coloring? Fair, dark? Sensitive skin? Eye color? Hair color? Style....funky, natural? Any additional makeup info?
Fair with ruddy cheeks. Blue eyes. Dyed dark red hair. Makeup style is definitely funky - if I want to look natural, I just don't wear makeup. Otherwise, I usually do a bit of powder foundation, vibrant eye shadow crayon and black or blue/black mascara (note I DO NOT need more black mascara). Then a red or berry or burgundy lip color. I don't wear blush or lip liner or usually eye liner, although I will play with that sometimes. I am always in the market for more bold eye or lip colors, nail polishes (glitter is good) and could legit use a "glue" for loose powder shadow.

Is there any craft or hobby that you are interested in trying?
There's nothing I'm particularly jonsing for at the moment, but I've been a little curious about needle felting if there's an all inclusive kit you like. My daughter also loves crafty stuff, so things we could work on together would be fun.

Would anyone mind bath and body works items? Such as hand sanitizer, lotion, candles, car scents or soap?
I love their lotions and shower gel and some of their specialty spa stuff. I also love their candles, perhaps a bit too much.

Any Lush showergel (or other product) you'd like to try? I sort of collect their showergels, mostly from The Kitchen. So if there's anything you'd like to try, now's the time to tell!
My fave Lush products are their bath products, which I have no current ability to use, sadly. I don't care for their soap at all, their shower gels are okay. I do love me some Lemony Flutter, though.

Do you like licorice or would you like to try it? Would you prefer salt or sweet?
ALL THE LICORICE!!! I generally prefer sweet, but like salty if it is combined with something sweet (Nemi gave me some chocolate covered salty licorice last year that was AMAZING.)

I live in The Netherlands but I will visit England soon and might pay a visit to Germany. Anything special from here that you'd like to try?
Magnets, jewelry, local sweets and candy are among my travel related loves.

is you BPAL wishlist updated? If not: please do!
I will try to get that taken care of ASAP.

Do you like office supplies like pens, pencils, highlighters, sticky notes, etc?
I particularly love pens in all sorts of colors and sticky notes.

How do you feel about spicy, cheesy, or sour snacks?
Sure! I particularly like cheesy..

Would you like any cook-able mixes like for soup or baked goods, cooking ingredients like spices, sugars, salts, oils, or cooking gadgets?
Absolutely!

Would you prefer bar soaps or bath gel?
I marginally prefer soap, just because I'm more likely to grab it to use.

Candles, wax melts, or incense - yea or nay?
Candles are fine, although I am kind of drowning in them. Please no incense or wax melts.

Jewelry - any preference about length of necklaces, earrings, etc?
The bigger and bolder the better. I do not wear post earrings, though. Otherwise, in terms of length, anything goes.

Sweeteners:
I don't do artificial sweeteners.Honey, agave, other actual sugar alternatives are fine. No stevia or stuff like that though.

Handmade items & homemade food:
Absolutely!

Shakespearean swag:
This is my question, so I am pretty well set, but yes, I do love me some random Shakespeare.

Favorite Christmas story:
A Christmas Carol all day long, the book, adaptations, everything other than the Jim Carrey version.

Numbered packages or random:
Whatever you prefer, Snow Angel.

Goodreads or other wish lists:
Everything is in my swap help blog entry linked in my sig..

Books in a series-- in order?
If books are pretty much standalone, like Discworld or a lot of police procedural series, I am cool with random entries. For anything that is truly serial and the series is meant to tell a full story together, then I want them in order.

Trader Joe's:
I have one super close but I never actually go there, so it is fair game.(I love cookie butter ; -)

Shoe size
US womens 8, socks are wonderful

I'm going to San Diego next week. Are there any souvenirs from there you'd like? How about any little souvenirs in general that you appreciate receiving?
I can't think of anything SD specific, to be honest, but see above re my usual souvenirs.

Do you like Steampunk? Would you be interested in any jewelry inspired by steampunk?
I yes and yes! The biggest catch is a lot of steampunk jewelry I see is very gold/bronze based.

I make paper albums and journals. Would you be interested in receiving something like that? Would you like some other type of handmade paper craft?
I have so many journals that I never get around to using, so I should probably pass.

Are you currently ISO any BPAL new or otherwise? What are your top 10 scents?
I a not ISO anything in particular right now. I will try to get my wishlist updated ASAP. I listed a lot of my faves in my survey, I think.

Black Friday will be a thing during this swap, anything you might want that will be on awesome sale?
I'm sure there will be some deals on movies or games that are up my alley, but there's nothing specific I can think of (I tend to avoid any offline black Friday shopping).

Homemade stuff specifics:
Would you be interested in:
- Dried honeycrisp apples Yes
- Applesauce (with red hots for sweetness and cinnamon) Yes
- Rose petal liqueur Yes!
- Blackberry, Strawberry Rhubarb, or Peach Jam Yes!
- garlic dill pickles Yes
- raw honey from bees on our property Yes!
- Baked or homemade goods Always. Of particular interest from the list are rum balls, cranberry bars, fudge and trail mix. If you make extra fab brownies or breads, that's cool too.
- handsewn project bags or makeup bags? If you have thematic fabric or the desire to make something that fits with my fandoms, that would be super, but I don't really need them in general. Of particular interest would be Harry Potter, Doctor Who, NMBC, MLP. Bigger bags that could hold some of my daughter's huge MLP collection would actually be pretty fab.
- yarn, roving, batts, fiber? No thank you.
- any cross stitch items like a small wall hanging or bookmark? Bookmarks, dishtowels, pillows, other usable things would be great. I don't have much wall space for hangings, though.
- if you said you'd want a knitted item, are there any particular favorite patterns you'd like - I have no idea and am not on ravelry or relevantly on pinteroist. I am not real big on cable-knit or that sort of classic texture, though. For some reason, I now have an image of some sort of cephalopod texture and would be all over something like that, though. In terms of colors, any of the jewel tones I mention in my survey, especially black/gray/purples/teal.

If you said you liked candles/incense/etc., what are your favorite scents for such things?
I love anything evergreeny this time of year, or spicy foody kind of scents.

Do you like to cook and would you be interested in cookbooks?
I do cook, but I have a lot of cookbooks. I do love quirky fannish ones, though. I have Dining with the Doctor.

Do you like games (board/card), and if so for how many players?
Yes! I would particularly be interested in games that can be played with 2-3 players as well as larger groups.

If you have a Goodreads "to read" list, are those mostly books that you do not have and would like copies of, or are those mostly books that you already have piled on your shelves/lurking in your e-reader?
I have tried to break down what I have and what I want via an "on-my-shelves" sub-category. Anything on my to-read list that is not so marked is something I would be happy to receive, whether it specifically says "want a copy" or not.

Do you have a wood-burning fireplace or fire pit, and if so would you like handmade firestarters or scenting bundles to throw on it? (think bundles of apple wood chips and cinnamon bark, or little wax/herb/paper bundles with a wick)
Technically we have both fireplace and a metal fire bowl thing, although we have never used the former and rarely use the latter. I wouldn't necessarily be opposed, but these sound like the sort of thing I would acquire and never remember to use.

What animals do you think are considered cute?
Penguins, owls, birds generally, bats, lizards, seals, and I have a fondness for arctic animals specifically - white foxes, wolves, polar bears, etc.

You mentioned scarves in your questionnaire. Are you referring to a chunky thick keep-me-warm-in-a-snowstorm scarf, or a light and lacy could-be-warm-if-I-wound-it-a-hundred-times scarf?
I don't think I did, actually. But generally, I like big shawl like winter scarves more than light lacy scarves.

I stalked your etsy and noticed you like gemstones in jewellery!
If yes, what's a list of your favorite semi-precious gemstones?

Sapphires, garnets, moonstone...honestly, I care more about color and overall style than gemstones themselves.

And what is your ring size in US?
I really would prefer not to receive rings. Sorry! I can barely wear my wedding and engagement rings anymore, let alone others.

Would you like to receive a photography print? My pictures are mainly of animals or landscapes. What would you prefer? Any favourite animals you'd like to receive a picture of? Would you also like to receive postcards?
These are beautiful, but outside of owls or birds that I could share with my daughter, I really don't have wall space right now.

Thinking about your package arriving and unwrapping, would you prefer more foody items or more non-foody things?
Non-foody, please. Some food items are wonderful, but I would prefer that less than half be treats, thanks!

Name a handful of things you would LOVE to see in your 12 Days gifts!
Jewelry, books, a mix cd of seasonal music, fun sparkly decorations, socks or arm warmers... Grabbing this from the thread, but I also love fandom blind bags, incl. Lego!

Anybody else pay attention to Solstice Scents?
Nope. I am a BPAL only gal and do not wear anything else.

If I were go get my shit together to actually bake before December 7, would you have any interest in fruitcake?
My own question, so the YES I LOVE IT answer can probably be assumed, but yes, I love fruitcake - even the stereotypical brick - but especially people's different recipes. I go pretty much gaga over any holiday fruit bread - panatella, stollen, etc.

If I were still feeling the alcoholic spirit and decided to make boozy chocolate balls of some sort, do you have a preference for bourbon, rum or Irish whiskey?
I have no real preference. In terms of drinking, I lean toward whiskeys, but all the booze is welcome over here.
emzebel

emzebel

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13 Nights of Halloween 2016

UPDATED 9/14/16

Anything here: http://paintboxsoapworks.com/ look like something you'd like to try (assuming that you're not already ordering it)?
My own answer is that I need just about everything in Red Right Hand, but I will probably be taking care of that myself.

Do you like stuff related to Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead)?
I love Day of the Dead conceptually and have been fascinated with it ever since reading Ray Bradbury's stories about Mexico as a kid, but the mass commodification of it makes me a little uncomfortable as a lily white atheist. I do have some beautiful sugar skull items which were given to me by someone sharing her culture which I treasure and I would absolutely welcome more in that vein.

Knitted Items?
Absolutely! I would particularly be interested in fingerless gloves, but just about anything, really. <3

Fandom/Specific Items?
Harry Potter, Ghostbusters (especially the new one), Doctor Who, Star Wars, also happy to take any My Little Pony stuff off your hands for my 6 year old (or me l).

Fall/Halloween Icons?
Bats, owls, gargoyles, skeletons, ravens,

First, talk to me about soaps- do you like them, and what kinds of scents/lather/varieties do you like?
Love soap! I tend to prefer hot process to glycerin, scents I think I cover pretty well in my questionnaire.

Second, tell me about teas! Favorites? Anything you'd like to try?
I love chocolate flavored and other sweet flavored teas, all the apple, pumpkin, chai this time of year.

Lastly, I go to Renn Faire- is there anything from there you might like?
It has been so long since I've been to one, I'm not even sure what I might like - jewelry, maile, that sort of thing is always good, I guess.

What Weenie of year's past are you seeking from the lab?
Nothing in particular. In terms of what I'm looking for and didn't purchase, my wishlist is in my sig.

Are you a shawl wearer- and if you don't wear one now, would you?
I would happily be a shawl wearer.

Tell me about LUSH- do you like them? If so, what are some of your favorite things from there? Particularly fond scents or products? Stuff you can't stand?
I don't care for their soap and I don't have a bathtub, so I don't currently have a use for bombs or melts...so, basically, I like Lush conceptually, but I don't actually use most of their products right now. I do love me some Lemony Flutter. Maybe lotion?

Japanese goodies?
I love Japanese sweets and Sanrio/Kawaii cuteness.

So, in this swap, you open a goodie every day. I have seen this gift direction done several different ways, but I am interested in which you are most keen to do. Would you rather:

A. have strict direction as to which gift is to be opened on which day(aka the number system)?
B.have a few gifts that are meant to be opened on specific days (ex: *this* one is for Halloween night only), but the rest be your choice?
C. have a free-for-all, grab bag-style box of goodies, where you are the sole arbiter of your goodie grabbing destiny(everything is wrapped but you pick the gift you want to open each day)?
D. be surprised?

I have received and given all of these ways and love them all. I know that is totally no help.

The Witch is In/Out sign?
That is super cute! I could definitely find a use for something like that.

Pumpkin Spice or No Pumpkin Spice?
ALL THE PUMPKIN SPICE!!!!! Although I prefer caramel apple Oreos and Milky Ways.

Milk, white, and/or Dark Chocolate?
Milk or white. If there is something amazing and on the sweet side that only comes in dark, I don't dislike it, but I prefer rich chocolate tastes to bitter ones.

Do you like Yankee Candle? Anything you want from there?
I'm not opposed and I love autumn scents, but I'm not familiar enough with their current line to have strong preferences.

Anything you have your eye on at BPTP?
Not in particular, but I'm always happy for decants from my wishlist.

Bath and Body Works - yay or nay?
Personally, I am a fan of their lotion and body wash, but not any of their perfume/body sprays/etc (unless you have a stockpile of their dry spray that came in an aerosol can that's been out of production for a couple of years). I also really like their handsoaps for the sink, but have a ton. Likewise, candles.

Tell me of your Sock Dreams, please!
Link to my wishlist is in the post below this one!

I'd like to make some baked goods, would you like some? And if you have any food allergies what can I use as substitute?
Absolutely. No allergies, but I definitely want full sugar, no stevia or anything.
Anything special you want from the Target dollar spot?
I haven't checked it out recently, but I often find fun sticky notes or magnetic notepads there, fun pens, little art supplies.

I live in The Netherlands. If there's anything in particular that you'd like to get from here, now's the time to tell!
Struphwaffles (I am sure that I just butchered that), and I still covet more of the chocolate covered salty licorice that you, Nemi, sent me in another swap.

I'm sort of collecting Lush showergels.Regular collection, but also many Kitchen items. Are there any showergels you'd like to try? I'd be happy to make you samples!
I have no idea about any of these, so sure! I do like shower gel.

What is your stance on Glitter?
I have a 6 year old child who loves anything that sparkles. Thankfully, my stance on glitter is essentially bring it on or I would have already become homicidal.

Also, if you have a Goodreads or other online reading log, does it include a wishlist? Otherwise, is it safe to assume books on the 'to-read' section are wishlist items? Or are you less into keeping a physical copy of the book, and instead prefer to turn to the awesomeness of the library to get your to-read need accomplished.
My Goodreads is pretty comprehensive and I try to be good about noting whether I already have a copy or whether I want a copy as part of my sub-shelves - generally speaking, if it is marked as want-a-copy, I specifically want to own it, not get it from the library. If it is marked as on-my-shelves, I have a copy, I've just yet to read it. Otherwise, things are fair game. If I have neglected to note that I already own something that is on my to-read shelf and you end up sending me something that I already have, well, that's my bad.

Tea lovers, what do you like from Whittard?
I have never tried them, but would happily do so!

how about art? (Small/mailing safe sizes, course)
I have fairly limited space in our new house due to the layout, so while my answer is always yes, I'm a little less enthusiastic than I might otherwise be just due to circumstances.

Dearest Pumpkin - how much are you wedded to wishlists, say I have some read once books which I think you might like based on what you've read in the past, but there is nothing of the sort on your current Goodreads "to read" list?
I am not at all wedded to them. I do suggest checking my "read" shelf at Goodreads before investing in off-wishlist books, but I am always thrilled to receive new options that I may not have thought of or discovered yet!

How do you feel about reading series out of order? Obviously not in situations where the subsequent books are part of the same story arc where you will be totally lost and frustrated if you haven't read all of them, but say, standalone stories which are technically part of a series and which might obliquely reference past books, but not in such as way as to spoil the plot of the book which I happen to have in my possession that you might like.
In the situation I'm describing, I am totally fine - if you have, say, the 4th Tana French novel, send it on. If the story relies heavily on past action, I'd rather not, but especially for long detective series and others where the basic plot is wrapped up in each book, that's fine.

Would you be interested in a Halloween themed short story anthology?
Absolutely. I have Halloween edited by Paula Guran, but not any others.

Is there a limit to the number of books you'd like to receive?
I wouldn't want to only receive books, but I would be happy to have 3-4 nights of them if there's stuff you think I'd love.

Movies in 15 Minutes?
Why yes, I have read it and have a copy I'd love to pass on to a fellow forumite.

Question: What kind of phone do you have? I need to know....
I have a Galaxy S5 Active at present, but will hopefully be upgrading to a 7 at some point during the swap.

Have you seen the horror film The Babadook? If so, did you like it? Would you want something Babadook-themed?
I haven't seen it. Based on the description I googled I can't decide if I would probably love it or spend the entire time feeling ill over kids in danger.

Those who are amenable to yarnie things--ok, two questions: Any undesirable fibers (wool allergy, vegan so no critter hair at all, etc.)? and how do you feel about cowls/infinity scarves?
I'm not allergic or vegan or otherwise totally opposed to anything, but wool is definitely not my favorite fiber unless it is super soft. That's really my biggest requirement - I like things super soft. In terms of infinity scarves, I've never really gotten the knack for them. Which doesn't mean I'm opposed to them, I just don't have any.

Motherhood update:
Haven't had a chance to look at it yet, but will update!

So who likes incense? and is there a preferred scent? and cones or sticks? Would you like a burner for it?
Not sure if I mentioned this in my survey, but ABSOLUTELY NO INCENSE PLEASE. It will never ever get used unless I send it to someone else and is frequently a migraine trigger. So please no thank you.
emzebel

emzebel

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Wishlists links and other sundry info for circular swaps.

Rather than trying to trot out info every time I do a circular swap, it has occurred to me that a meta-post covering the basic places where I have wishlists and other relevant info might be useful.

BPAL

Books: Goodreads, Bookmooch (very neglected), useful discussion hereabouts

Other Stuff: Amazon, Etsy, Sock Dreams, Think Geek
Swap Questions: 2015 13 Nights of Halloween, 2015 Spring Cleaning, 2014 13 Nights of Halloween, 2011 Snow Bunny
emzebel

emzebel

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2015 13 Nights of Halloween Answers-o-Doom

Gaming nerd? Kinda sorta. I am definitely on the geek spectrum, but in terms of games, I tend to prefer adventure/mystery type games.   If you have any Chaos Theory bottles on your wishlists, would you mind getting bottles on several days of this swap? I don't think I do have any CT on my wishlist, but I wouldn't mind a bottle or two if they seem like they are within my overall scent desires.   If you listed wearables - what sizes? I think I covered this in my questionnaire, but generally L/XL, feet are US 8.   Are your forearms skinny or bulky? My forearms are pretty...average? I generally do not have issues with my forearm size as it relates to clothing or jewelry. My upper arms on the other hand...they are pretty thick and tend to present problems.   How do you feel about yarn/wearables? Ok with wool as long as it's soft? And any particular things on your wish list as far as knit items go? (Headbands for fall/winter, cowls, fingerless mitts, mittens, socks, etc) Soft anything is wonderful. Hats, scarves, socks are all wonderful. I am always in the market for fingerless arm/hand warmers, that I can both type and hide my always cold fingers in.   What kind of items would you like to get that are not available in your country? I would love candies, jellies, jams, other edibles and local specialties.   How do you feel about home baked cookies? Is there anything that should be left out (nuts, milk, eggs, gluten, etc)? Home baking is love! I have no real restrictions in that area, aside from typical attempts at not overeating. Well, that and no artificial sweeteners.   How do you feel about receiving pens? If you like them, do you have a prefered stroke size (ie: do you prefer a thick or fine stroke)? Any preferred colors (assume the sky is the limit here)? Pens are great. I tend to like mid-range stroke sizes - not extra fine, but not seriously thick. In terms of color, between blue/black/red, I prefer black. Otherwise, I love fun pen colors which are not those three.   Socks? For fall, I tend to prefer knee-highs, as I pretty much constantly wear short boots, at least on the weekends, which is also pretty much the only time I wear socks. I love fun funky socks. My Sock Dreams wishlist is here, which I share not as an OMG BUY ME THESE, but more as an idea of what I tend to gravitate toward.   Tea? I have a bit of a tea problem, as in I have waaaaaaaay too much of it. That said, I am always happy to try any yummy seasonal tea flavors.   Yankee Candle Boney Bunch? The Boney Bunch doesn't actually do much for me, sadly. The Wicked Web (especially the collar or the bat wings), or the silhouettes and spellbound are much more up my alley. I also have a bit of a candle problem, much like tea, in that I have tons, but can't seem to prevent myself from inviting more in.   What are your favorite tv shows, movies, topics of geekery, famous persons, specific objects (like tarot or harpsichords), memes, cultures etc. that you would like to receive items themed around? Fandomish likes include Harry Potter (Ravenclaw with a side of Slytherin or Griffyndor, depending on the day), Star Wars, Muppets, Doctor Who, Firefly. I also watch Castle and Grey's Anatomy, but not in a major fannish way. I enjoy gargoyles, bats and spiders. I'm not sure I'm really answering the question, though. If you've said you like coffee: Do you prefer whole beans or ground? Do you like flavored coffees? Whole beans for unflavored, ground for flavors. Are you a soap only, shower gel only, or an either works person? If you like soap, are you particular about type? (all natural, no glycerine, created on a full moon using the blood of virgins, etc) Another area in which some would say I have a "problem". I will use just about anything, with the caveat that Paintbox is about the only glycerine soap I can use. I particularly love cleansing scrubs. Items you want but never seem to buy? Just as I never buy them, I never remember them. :headdesk: Something that might be fun would be a cool lariat/id card holder.   If you listed you like books: what kind of books? What are your favorites? Do you also like the "English classics"? Are there any books or writers that you really don't like? I definitely do not like "English classics" to the extent that I understand the term. I like Dickens for the most part, but not much else. Well, Shakespeare, but I have the collected works, so I don't need more there. Between my Goodreads and this post, it can tell you most of what you need to know.   What are your favorite musicians, favorite singers or bands? Anything or anyone you really don't like? REM, the Smiths, Nick Cave, Current 93, Sol Invictus, lots of 60s and 70s rock, new wave, 80s college rock, 80s and 90s goth and industrial. I like some country of the old school Patsy Cline/Loretta Lynn variety. Some hip hop. I haven't really kept up with music over the past 10 years or so, which is kind of depressing.   Do you like Japanese/Korean snackies? If so do you prefer sweet/savory or both? I'm not fanatical about them, but I do like interesting sweets. Savories are cool as long as they don't involve seaweed. Do you prefer light lotions or thick butters and do you like scented or unscented? Yes and scented. Do you like small crossbody bags? I am all about the crossbody bag, but on the larger size.   Birthday during swap? Nope.   Pistachio-flavored snacks? Sure!   Do you collect anything? I like bats and skulls and spiders and other creepy crawly things and butterflies and colorful beetles and other insects. But nothing that I'd seriously term a collection. What are some of your favourite things about fall/Halloween, or what do you look forward to? I went into this in a lot of detail in my survey, I think, but I love cooler days and wearing jeans and my favorite Fluevog ankle boots and long sweaters. We throw a big Halloween party every year which I love planning. And pumpkin spice everything and apple cider and spices and caramel. Going to a corn maze and going pumpkin picking and carving pumpkins and taking my kids trick or treating.   Horror themes? I'm not at all into zombies or really seriously goreshock kind of stuff. Also, anything involving mutilation of eyeballs freaks me the right fuck out.   Hey, Pumpkin! How do you feel about lounge pants/pajama pants? Absolutely - cozy lounge pants in an XL would rock. Do you have long, medium, or short hair? What kids of hair accessories do you like to use? Very short, no accessories needed. BUT, my 5 year old has almost waist length hair, so things would have a possible home. If you have an Etsy favorites list, are all of the things on the list things you'd be happy to get, or are some of them gift ideas for other people, or stuff that you've already bought and loved but don't need more of, or for any reason not something you'd want to get in this swap? List 'tis here: https://www.etsy.com/people/emzebel/favorites/items-i-love?ref=favs_index_1 Everything is something I'd love to have, although most of the stuffs have sold, so it can also serve as inspiration for the types of things I tend to go for, as opposed to a shopping list.   Do you bake or cook & if so (or even if not!) would you want Halloween-themed kitchen stuff or sprinkles or similar? Sure! I bake a lot this time of year and we have a fairly extensive sprinkle collection (so, I guess I do collect something?) that I think is low on the autumnal at the moment. And I love love love themey utensils and bakeware. Question: Wishbones, and designs with them ? Yay or nay? I...have no idea. I'm not opposed to them, but I tend to have more of an affinity for skulls and talons and other bony things.   Are there any general catalog/easily found/not crazy expensive BPAL bottles you'd love to get your hands on? I would dearly love a bottle of Scheherazade, which I love, but never seems to make it into my cart. Otherwise, my wishlist is pretty comprehensive and lists some GCs.   Alcoholic beverages in your goodies-- yay or nay-- if yay, what kind? Yay booze! I am on a big gin and bourbon kick right now (and whiskey generally always has a home with me). I also love little sample bottles of random flavored or unusual options in just about any liquor type. I also love seasonal ales this time of year. I am not big on wine. With anything, if there's some sort of local specialty that you just adore, I'd love to sample it!   CANDY CORN--- YAY OR NAY? Nay, sorry.   I'll visit an Asian market later this afternoon/evening. Bit of a last minute decision so last minute question, too. So hope my swappee reads and answers this before I'm there. Is there anything in particular you'd like to get? Sorry, I'm late on this one, but there's nothing in particular that I'm jonsing for at the moment. How disappointed would you be to get a package with little to no spooky themed stuff (except the wrappings)? I do love me some Halloween, but I will love anything you send, spooky or no. <3   Would you be interested in gently used BPAL tees going back several years and/or 80s/90s goth-industrial-generally morbid tees all in crew neck/Men's style, size M - L, all black or dark gray? Since is my question, I'm going with no on this one. I don't wear crewnecks anymore and clearly hubby has too many. How do you feel about superheroes? I adore Wonder Woman and have enjoyed a lot of the newer MCU stuff. How do you feel about Star Wars, especially extension universe comics? Another area where we have more than enough. How extensively have you sampled the Lab's Weenie wares? Any past releases you are dying to get your hands on? Years you missed? Other than what's in my wishlist, I'm good. Weenies tend to be my biggest order of the year.    
emzebel

emzebel

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Spring Cleaning v4.0 2015 Q&A

1.Ladies and gents, if you're comfortable receiving clothing, what size(s)? Any particular types of clothing (skirts, oversized t-shirts for crafting, work clothing)? How do you feel about shoes that were bought, worn once, and never brought out of the closet again? Ditto this for anyone else in your household who might appreciate wearables.   I am a L in BPTP tissue tees, XL in just about anything else, including Tee Fury and Threadless. Otherwise, I'm a 12-14 in bottoms (usually larger in pants, smaller in skirts unless they are super form fitting, generally skirts are somewhat safer because I am about the bass, as it were), I don't wear much in the way of button ups because boobage. On the weekends it's pretty much tees- either TP or geeky tee fury type stuff and jeans for me, and pretty business formal during the week. Shoes: I wear a US 8, I love me some funky Fluevogs, or sandals in the summer. I'm trying to keep heels to no more than 1.5 inches because my calves are not what they used to be. Totally happy to take anything that fits this description off your hands.   2.How do you feel about socks that were very briefly on fresh-out-of-the-shower feet & then removed when it was discovered they didn't fit? Absolutely! I do have pretty monster calves, so I have the same "gee these are adorbs except for the circulation in my legs" issue, and I have a couple of pairs in my hope to find a home pile myself.   3.How do you feel about vinyl designer toys? (Ex super7, kidrobot, etc) I've never really gotten into these, which basically means I'm a clean slate. Someone mentioned Lego, which is my obsession. Otherwise, my fandoms are Harry Potter (Ravenclaw represent), Doctor Who (especially 9/Rose), Star Wars, Firefly, GOT (sort of, though I've only read the books), pretty much anything Gaiman related, LOTR sort of.   4.What kind of makeup and/or nail polish would you be interested in receiving? What kind of colors do you like? Sure! I covet bright colors for eyes and lips and could actually use some sort of setting "glue" for sparkly shadows (I know there's a name for this, but search me). Also, I search forever for non-black or brown mascaras (especially need blue-black, but love other colors too). I do not need facial care stuff or foundation/powder and I never wear blush, so anything along those lines would just get a home in the next round of BBBoxes. 5.Speaking of books, are there any books you WOULD NOT READ if something happened to fall into your package? My goodreads has a ton of info about my preferences, but jumping of an earlier answer, I would NOT be interested in anything religious at all, including pagan stuff. I'm an avowed atheist, so it's just not my scene. Otherwise, I'm not real big on non-fiction or much from before 1940 or so. 6.Are there any other hoarders collectors of nail polish? All the bright sparkly colors for my toes. I don't really wear/need neutrals and don't care much for matte.   7. Any hobbies/crafts you would really like supplies for? Similarly, any that you just *really* don't need more stuff of? I keep saying that I want to start doing cross stitch and embroidery again and I can always use polymer clay and related supplies, beads, and jewelry fittings.   8.Are you interested in anything for your kitchen? Pots/pans/gadgets/small appliances/etc. In terms of need, probably not. But I could find a good use for a salad spinner, double boiler, madeline and bakeware. Fun dishtowels and spatulas are cool. And wooden spoons.   9.How about fashion accessories??? I have super short hair, so don't really use hair accessories, but my daughter has really long hair and is growing out her bangs right now, so she would get use out of hair clips, headbands and the like. I have a lot of scarves and such as well, so I don't really need more, but if something seems perfect, I'd be happy to adopt it.   10. Used makeup? I'm not terribly picky about my makeup, other than mascara. No non-cleanly tested mascara, please.   11.Would you like to try anything that may not be so easily available in your country, for those of you who may get an international person? Sure!   12.Kids' stuff? I have a daughter who will turn 5 during the swap who loves owls and rainbows and birds and dolphins. Gently used clothes in a size 5 or above are totally cool, as are Kindergarten age appropriate books and such. I also have an 11 year old son who is gigantic and totally pubescent and who will take anything military history related off your hands.   13.Are there any styles/colors of handbags you won't carry? Anything in the biege/brown/white/yellow/orange spectrum or anything too canvasy utilitarian or patchwork hippy-chic. Otherwise, I prefer cross body bags that are kind of classy-funky, if that makes any sense.   14.Do you play video games & would you be interested in recieving games? If yes, what systems do you have & what types of games do you like? Sure! Personally, I mostly play adventure/HO games on my kindle (think Big Fish/G4), but we do have a Wii that I wish I had more time for and my son and husband play all the time. They are also angling for an Xbox.   15.Are you a BPAL only person, or do you wear other perfumes as well? BPAL only please!   16.Do you have pets and if so what?   Two cats and a tank of guppies, none of whom need anything. The cats don't really like treats and catnip gives one of ours a really bad trip, so we avoid it. Cool aquarium accessories might get some love, I guess.   17. Bath/beauty stuff? Ie oils, salts, bubbles? Masks, bb creams? All the bath stuff. ALL OF IT! Except for non-cleansing scrubs. I have SO many jars of non-cleansing scrubs that I really really should not adopt more. But all the foaming scrubs. I am pretty set for a skincare routine as well, but am always on the look out for a good charcoal face wash to tempt me away from my current decidedly uncool Mary Kay regimen.   18. If you are a dustpan who would like to receive yarn, are you particular about said yarn? Wool allergies? Irrational hatred of acrylics? Can you use partial balls (like I used maybe 50 yards of a 200 yard skein), or do you only use certain weights? Please no yarn. I have no use for it unless you're making something out of it before you sent it to me. No fabric, either, while I'm thinking of it.   19. How does everyone feel about CDs and DVDs? Any preferences? Sure, but I have no idea how to even begin to guide this question, other than to send you to my amazon wishlist.   20. Hey, how do people feel about stripes? Say, black and white stripes? Stripes are love. 21. Do you have any interest or use for anything tarot-related? Not really. 22. Do you like cats? Actual cats are great, have 2. Not that big on stuff with cats on it, unless it's kind of weird (like a cat in a space helmet or something, not anything super cutsie). 23. Do you collect anything? Not super comprehensively, but I like gargoyles and creepy critters. My daughter will take anything you have with owls on it. Lego is probably the biggest thing, now that I think of it. We have several hundred of the actual sets and probably close to a million bricks all told. So there's that. I also love sticker books and adult coloring books and my daughter likes the youngling variety. Son is in a big military history kick right now. 24. Also, I've unearthed a ton of stuff from the regifting heap, so do you have any use for a potpourri container, a bright purple reusable water bottle, or a Massage Envy gift card? As noted in thread, I will take all water bottles or travel mugs that are in good condition and I'd happily find a use for Massage Envy. No potpourri please, containers or otherwise.   25. If you are interested in receiving homemade baked goods, do you have any favorites or limitations not mentioned in your questionnaire? Would you like a full list of ingredients included? Homemade baked goods are awesome, no limitations other than what I listed in my questionnaire. Most salient would be please no no-calorie sweeteners or dill. 26. If you are interested in receiving clothing, would you like any belts, sweatpants, or slippers? And do you have color/style preferences? No sweatpants. Belts would be great. Slippers that can go outdoors would be great in dark colors, or cozy socks. 27. If you are interested in receiving books, would you like to receive ebooks? As in, book files I'd send you on a USB drive, that you can read on your computer or e-reader. Sure!   28. How do you feel about barely-used candles? I have no objection to partially burned candles.
emzebel

emzebel

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13 Nights of Halloween Questions 2014

What are your thoughts on yarn and handmade yarny things?   Handmade anything is awesome and love and fabulous. But despite many many attempts at yarncraft I have come to the conclusion that I shall never be adept at things involving anything larger than an embroidery needle and floss.   For bath and body products: do you have a bathtub or shower?   I can do either with pretty much anything. All the bath and shower things!   Dear Swappee: is there anything you might have forgotten to put on your survey?   Nothing I can think of at the moment.   Are there any particular fandoms that you follow?   Fandoms (by which I mainly mean things I would be happy to receive swag about): Harry Potter (Ravenclaw here), Doctor Who, Muppets, Nightmare Before Christmas, StarWars (especially Yoda or Princess Leia or droids), Game of Thrones, Sandman, Firefly, Lego, Princess Bride   Do you own a wax/oil burner? (If no, would you like one?) Incense, y/n?   Oil/Wax/Incense/Candles:Scented candles in nommy autumnal scents are cool, no incense, wax melts/tarts or burning oils, please.   Would you like loose, fancy tea?   All the chocolatey, autumnal flavored tea.I also love a good Earl Gray.   What is your favorite fall activity?   Favorite activities - I have to go to a pumpkin patch with the kids. And then we have to carve crazy-ass jack o lanterns. October is probably my favorite month of the year - the weather here is fabulous - cool and crisp, but not cold yet. I love having whatever giant creature my husband and son come up with in our yard, and our skelemingos and other silly-creepy things. I love prepping for our Halloween party and then Halloween itself - filling the big candy bowl and getting the first wee trick-or-treaters...I really can't pick just one thing, but if I absolutely had to, it would probably be the pumpkin patch.   I'm in Japan, anything specifically Japanese-y you want?   Cute Halloweenie Sanrio stuffs would be fun, or other similar items. Probably not much in the way of sweets or snacks.   Please briefly describe (color, style, preferred type of beads) or provide a picture of (if it is suitable), the type of necklace (if any) you would be interested in getting. If you do not like necklaces, what kinds of jewelry (if any) would you want to wear?   What I really seriously kind of sort of need, to the extent that it is possible for me to actually *need* jewelry at this point in my life, is a bracelet in purples/blues. I particularly like loose bracelets with a single charm. I don't like what I think of as hippy-quasi-Indian flowery fittings between beeds. I would also love Halloweenie themed bracelets or earrings (I have a necklace that I love and can only wear this time of year already).   In terms of necklaces, something purple and/or red would be cool. I have a lot of blues and plain silver and oranges and even a couple of green tone ones, but purple in particular is missing, despite being my favorite color. I have been particularly drawn to long drapey multi-strand things lately, but really, I just love big bold colorful statement jewelry that leans modern (as opposed to Victorian or hippy costume beads), although I also love art deco/nouveau.   What about hot chocolate/malt drinks?   I kind of have more hot chocolate than I will ever be able to use and most of the time I am too lazy to actually heat milk, etc unless I'm making Hershey's for the kids. That said, if you have a line on amazing pumpkin spice hot chocolate where you just add water, I'm all in. As for malt drinks, assuming you mean like Ovaltine or something, I'm not strictly opposed, but it's not something I seek out and I'd probably prefer my carbs elsewhere.     If you said that you are interested in books (or DVDs or any relatively big standalone sort of item), would you be okay with having multiples of such items spread over a couple of days, or would you prefer 13 distinct themish packages?   Personally, while I wouldn't want, say 4 days of books and 5 days of DVDs and just 4 of other goodies, I would be cool with receiving 2-3 days of books if they are things you think I would really love.   How into the day themeing mentioned in the first post are you? All themed? A few maybe if they are fun? Not at all?   I would probably be more into general Halloweenie/Autumnal theming than say bologna or mincemeat. If it helps my treater out of a bind or if zie really can have a lot of fun with it, have at.   Speaking of DVDs - are you interested in receiving movies and if so, what sort?   Anything on my Amazon wishlist is fair game, if not terribly thematic. I don't have a whole lot of time to watch tv, period, unless it's at least 11 year old friendly, but I would love to see "Let the Right One In" and I have a fondness for old Steven King movies.   Back to the books - if you said you would like books, would you prefer I send you, say, my favorite Halloween anthology or something else spooky/scary, or something off your wishlist/want-to-read on goodreads?   Personally, books are love. I would particularly love a new thematic anthology (I have Halloween by Paula Guran and send it to everyone in these things...which means I'll have to make that last this time if I repeat it) or something kind of scary or otherwise autumnal, but really anything you think I'd love would be fabulous. My next project still in progress on goodreads is shelving my "want to read" books into "have them/don't have them", since right now it's a mix, but it should give you some ideas at the very least.   Process question: Do you want to know who is sending to you right away, or would you prefer to be surprised on the last day, to the extent possible? Likewise, do you have a preference for specifically numbered packages or for reach in and grab according to your fancy?   I definitely want to know who you are. I don't feel super strongly about when I find out, although tradition leans toward the end. In terms of numbering, both a free for all and specific numbering are fun, so whatever strikes you as most appropriate.     Would you be interested in solid perfume? What about lip balm?   I'm very much a BPAL only girl, so no on solid perfume. Lip balm forever, though, especially if it has SPF.     There was a lot of mention of not wearing costumes/not being allowed to at workplaces. Would you be interested in goth style or Halloween-themed(pumpkins, ghosts,etc.) normal clothes to wear instead, and what would be suitable?   I could probably get away with a costume more than actual club-wear and since I never actually get to wear any of the club wear I already own (and in fact might be raiding my stash of jewelry from my hardcore goth days for this swap, I'm a no on the gothy clothes question. I would love Halloweenie socks, accessories, fingerless gloves/armwarmers, t-shirts and other accessories (I'd lean more toward black/purple/spiders/bats than orange and pumpkins for anything other than socks or maybe jewelry). For that matter, a long wig could be fun - I actually borrowed a long black and purple wig and wore it to a work lunch for Halloween last year.   Rose City Comicon - Are any of them particularly appealing to you and/or your inner twelve-year-old (mine is calling dibs on the Goonies stuff)? I didn't see anything that jumps out at me in the vendor list, but my inner 12-year-old will fight your inner 12-year-old for Goonies. Day of the dead/ Dia de los Muertos stuff? I go back and forth on DDLM stuffs (as opposed to my much hoarded stash of the 2004 DDLM oil. I would love some sugar skull earrings, otherwise, I'm pretty particular. Question for all you knitters,crocheters and people who like yarn and yarnie things; can you give somebody just one or two balls of yarn? Can you make something out of that? Is it useful? This is definitely not directed at me, but no, I would get absolutely no use out of yarn, unless you made it into something for me. Does anything from this shop catch your eye? I have a lotion in some sort of vanilla from Debauchery that I really love and I'm a sucker for bubbling scrubs, so I'd be happy to try those - in terms of scents, the Black Honey and Buttermilk Nectar both look fabulous and every single one of the autumn scents I looked at looked promising. Dear Pumpkin: Do you have aversions to any animals or insects? Centipedes/millipedes, wasps, cockroaches. I would not want anything with them on. Otherwise, there's not much that freaks me out. How do you feel about canned foods like jams and things along those lines? They are love! Do you have a favourite colour scheme? Black/gray, jewel tones and dark, almost black versions of same. How do you feel about stickers (and stationery in general)? Stickers and cute note cards are fine. Pretty papers are not likely to get used. How do we feel about fibercrafting (knit, crochet, etc.)? wearables? crafted critters? If you would like a scarf or something similar, would you like it to be themed, like fall colors, or have a skull or other halloweenie motif/border? We think that any of these are amazeballs, particularly in halloweenie themes. What makes you feel pampered? A long hot bath with some sort of scented product (bath oll, bomb, something), with a cup of hot tea and a good book. OR a really luxe massage or a pedicure. New Question! We've covered what critters you don't like, but what about the critters that you DO like? What are your favorite animals/creatures, real or imagined? Bats, owls, ravens, spiders, lizards, gargoyles, pegasi, DRAGONS!   I have a dumb question! I know it's a big joke that we get everything five years later than everyone else in the world, but is there anything specifically Canadian you'd like? Maple things, chocolate bars, or any of our creepy chip flavours? Totally not a dumb question! I want maple everything and maple sugar candy is one of my favorite things in the world. Also, cheap Canadian chocolate is infinitely superior to cheap USian chocolate and I am happy to try any creepy chip flavors that do not include any of my blackout items (so no salmon dill blue cheese crisps). A new question from me: While I am stalking the restock of the Rice Pudding hot process soap, does anything from Paintbox Soapworks catch your eye?   My answer - the afore mentioned Rice Pudding soap, also sorbetto, soaps (I prefer the hot process to glycerin, but both are fabulous) or lotion in any of the following (in order of preference): The Bees Lament, Indian Summer, Avast, Little Paper Umbrellas, Candy Floss, Guy Falkes, Pink Salt, Beet It   Is there is any TAZO tea you have a hankering for? Zen, Awake, Passion, China Green Tips, Vanilla Roibois, Calm, Refresh? (tea bags in a tin) Cocoa Mint Mate looks yum, as does the Bushberry Black Iced.   How about any Teavana tea? (loose leaf) I love their toasted mates. Also, anything fruity/chocolaty. How about Starbucks coffee beans? If so, ground (and for what kind of filter) or whole bean? Whole bean, all the way. How about Starbucks coffee via (italian, columbia, anniversary, vanilla latte?) or Iced coffee via (caramel or regular?) Fruit flavored via (berry hisbiscus, cool lime, strawberry lemonade?) Pumpkin Spice Latte via? Pumpkin Spice Latte!!!!!!!!!! Nothing else there I'm willing to take the carbs for, though. Starbucks K-cups or Verismo pods? No thanks. Coffee/tea travel mugs or ceramic home mugs? Travel mugs would be fabulous. Coffee maker (french press) or tea steeper? A tea steeper would be cool. Anything else from Starbucks/Teavana? Syrups, honey, whatever? I always love honey. How would you feel about a gently-used card game? For example, something I may have purchased several years ago and maybe played with my daughter *twice* before she became a moody teenager, and too cool for card and/or board games? Oh, absolutely. Especially if it is pre-moody teen friendly. Alcoholic beverages in your goodies-- yay or nay (mostly I'm thinking minis, tho I did get a full bottle of liqueur in a Switch Witch years ago!)-- if yay, what kind? Total yay! I love whiskeys of pretty much all sorts, flavored vodkas, gin, weird artisan brews. Really there's not much I won't drink. CANDY CORN--- YAY OR NAY? Nay for me.   New question! Name at least one thing that you really wouldn't like to receive in your package.   Totally cribbing from someone else's answer and saying Spongebob stuff.   I have eyeshadow pigments which have been decanted from--as in the powder tapped out into another container,never used directly. (I don't use very much makeup, though I love it, so I keep shadow pigments clean so I can safely share.) Would a jar of pigment handled thus bother you or are you ok with costmetic-type stuff that has not been directly touched?   That is totally cool with me. Bring on the bright sparkles!   ETA: For those with fiber allergies, is it ok if you get, say, an ornament/amigur-whatsit yarn thing that has wool in the blend, as long as it's not something to be worn? Also, because I don't know, do people with wool allergies generally also have sensitivity to other fibers like alpaca? No fiber allergies here, so no worries. Just nothing too scratchy.   does anyone especially like or want anything from cost plus/world market?   I love World Market with an unholy passion. In fact, I should probably swing by there this weekend for my pumpkin, but the short answer is yes, that is a very safe place to shop for me.   does anyone need any small kitchen items or utensils?   Need is such a strong word. I would love measuring cups in weird sizes - 2 cup, 2/3, 3/4 sorts of things. I can always use more spatulas and measuring spoons, especially if they are colorful and/or seasonal. Also, wooden spoons or other non-stick pan friendly spoony things. And baking stuff - cupcake liners, sanding sugars, that sort of thing, are always grand.   Dearist Pumpkin- do you have a preference of edible/drinkable vs. non edible items in your package? Would you prefer your package heavier on one side or the other?   Probably more on the non-edible side. I'd be happy to have some edible/drinkables, though.   Any guilty pleasures? TV show you're embarassed to admit you like? Musical group/preference that seems out-of-place for you? Gray's Anatomy is probably the closest thing.   And now, a new question: to sort of piggy-back onto the question about small kitchen items, do you like to bake or cook, and if yes, are there any special ingredients, spices, or decorations for baked goods (like sprinkles in seasonal shapes or those decorative picks you put on top of cupcakes, for instance) that you would like? I love baking and would definitely love Halloweenie accessories, especially early on in the swap where I could incorporate things into our party.   Hey, Pumpkin! How do you feel about lounge pants/pajama pants? Sounds great. I probably need an XL.   Do you have long, medium, or short hair? What kids of hair accessories do you like to use?   Very very short is my hair. I make it kind of spiky with pomade and that's about it. My daughter has super long hair and will adopt any styling related goodies, hair oils, etc.   If you could have a lotion/soap scented just for you, what are some notes you'd like to see? Autumn themed? or tried and true loves?   I would love something autumnal, but not pumpkin (I have a Punkie Night lotion from Paintbox, so I'm good there). Maybe a spicy apple cidery scent or something? I tend toward more foody in my body products.     Pumpkin: Is there something that catches your eye from this shop?   I love love love the overall style, but I never wear gold. Very occassionally I'll wear copper, but in general, I prefer my jewelry silvertone, so assume that all of my lusting is imagining silver. To the extent that is possible, the Games necklace is amazeballs and now I want one in silvertone. I also like Rough Diamond, Circle Bib, Lightning Cloud, any of the Feathers and all the bracelets.   If I were going to the mountains tomorrow, for the apple harvest, would you wanted some dehydrated apple rings??? Late to this party, but sure!   If you have an Etsy favorites list, are all of the things on the list things you'd be happy to get, or are some of them gift ideas for other people, or stuff that you've already bought and loved but don't need more of, or for any reason not something you'd want to get in this swap? Everything on there is for MEMEMEME. Mostly it's sort of a general idea list, or a way for me to sort out the items I want to seriously consider from an update, but generally speaking, if you got me anything from there, I would be thrilled.   New question from me! how do you feel about music? would you like some? if so, what would you be interested in & in what format (do you still have somewhere to play CDs, or would a flash drive be better, etc)? Music would be cool, probably best as a burned CD. I don't have much of anything from the last 4-5 years or so, so indie/alt-country/rock in that vein would be fun.   Lilith Update?   I am interested in decants of Goofballs, Mermaid, Venustas, Very Pink Surprise Cake
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2014 Reading

ATTN! I HAVE MOVED MY BOOK TRACKING TO GOODREADS : https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/1543793-em   2014 Books @ Goodreads     So...what is here right now is a snapshot up to about April, otherwise, check my bookshelves! I'm also in the process of moving each year over and will note that in the relevant posts. Or, what is on by kindle/bookshelves/library record...   Read Entirely in 2014 1. Hopeless - Colleen Hoover (romance, maybe series?) 2. S - JJ Abrams, Doug Darst 3. Sharp Objects - Gillian Flynn 4. The Giver - Lois Lowry (YA)(S)(D) 5. Dark Places - Gillian Flynn 6. Interworld - Neil Gaiman, Michael Reaves (SF)(YA)(R )(WS)(S) 7. Year of the Flood - Margaret Atwood (S)(SF)(D) 8. The Night Circus - Erin Morgenstern (technically started in 2013, but counting because I reread the few pages I started) 9. Fight Club - Chuck Palhonick (BC) 10. The Silver Dream - Neil Gaiman, Michael Reaves, Melody Reaves (SF)(YA)(WS)(S) 11. The Onion Girl - Charles DeLint (S)(F) 12. Anne of Green Gables - LM Montgomery (S)(YA)® 13. Divergent - Veronica Roth (S)(YA)(D) 14. The Knife of Never Letting Go - (YA)(S)(D) 15. The Maze Runner (YA)(S)(D) 16. Shards and Ashes (YA)(SW)(D) 17. The Magicians - Lev Grossman (S)(F) 18. The Magician King - Lev Grossman (S)(F) 19. Gathering Blue - Lois Lowry (S)(YA)(D) 20. The Ask and the Answer - Patrick Ness (A)(YA)(D) 21. Watching the Dark - Peter Robinson (S)(M) 22. Man and Wife - Andrew Klavan (M) 23. Orange is the New Black 24. Sabriel - Garth Nix ®(YA)(WS)(F)   Started in 2013 or before, finished in 2014 The Amber Spyglass - Phillip Pullman (R )(YA)(F)(W/S)   In progress (if not started in 2013, starting year in parens) Ulysses - James Joyce (started 2005, completely restarted in 2011) Everything You Know About God is Wrong - Russ Kick (NF) (SW) (2010)   Children of the Revolution - Peter Robinson The Hobbit (w/son)®           Island of the Could Not Finish     Some coding:(AOC) = Author of Color/(BC)= Book Club/(D) = Dyatopia/(F) = Fantasy/(GN) = Graphic Novel/(H) = Horror/(M) = Mystery/(NF) = Non-fiction/(R ) = Reread/(S) = Series/(SF) = Science Fiction/(SW) = Short Works/(V) = Vampires, werewolves, and witches, oh my!/(YA) = Young Adult
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2013 Reading

Or, what is on by kindle/bookshelves/library record...   Read Entirely in 2013 1. Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children - Ransom Riggs (S)(F) 2. Bone River - Megan Chance 3. Bones of the Moon - Johnathan Carrol 4. Infernal Devices - KW Jeter (F) (BC) 5. Chalice - Robyn McKinley ®(F) 6. Watership Down - Richard Adams (BC) (F) 7. A Perfect Blood - Kim Harrison (V)(S) 8. Gone Girl - Gillian Flynn 9. Into the Woods - Kim Harrison (V)(S)(SF) 10. The Hundred Thousand Kingdoms - N. K. Jemisin (F)(AOC) (S) 11. The Drowning Girl - Caitlin R Kiernan (H) 12. Stardust - Neil Gaiman (R )(F)(BC) 13. Snow White and Rose Red: The Huntsman - Lily Fang (F) 14. Coraline - Neil Gaiman, P Craig Russell (GN) (YA) ® (F) 15. Movies in Fifteen Minutes - Cleolinda Jones (SW)(BPALER!) 16. The Broken Kingdoms - N.K. Jemisin (F)(S)(AOC) 17. The Wretched of Muirwood - Jeff Wheeler (S)(F) 18. The Scourge of Muirwood - Jeff Wheeler (S)(F) 19. The Kingdom of the Gods - N.K. Jemisin (F)(S)(AOC) 20. The Killing Moon - N.K. Jemisin (F)(S)(AOC) 21. The Blight of Muirwood - Jeff Wheeler (S)(F) 22. Paleofantasy - Marlene Zuk (NF) 23. The Grimm Curse: Snow White - Stephen Carpenter (S)(F) 24. After - Ellen Datlow and Terri Windling (SW)(F)(SF)(YA) 25. The List - Konrath, J.A., Jack Kilborn (M)(S?) 26. The Ruth Valley Missing - Amber West (M) 27. The Ocean at the End of the Lane - Neil Gaiman (F) 28. Embassytown - China Mieville (SF) 29. Vampire Academy - Richelle Mead (V)(YA)(S)(BPALER!) 30. Frostbite - Richelle Mead (V)(YA)(S)(BPALER) 31. Shadow Kiss - Richelle Mead (V)(YA)(S)(BPALER) 32. Blood Promise - Richelle Mead (V)(YA)(S)(BPALER) 33. Frost Burned - Patricia Briggs (S)(V) 34. From the Mixed Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankwiler - E.L. Koningsberg (YA)(R )(BC) 35. After the Poison - Peter Robinson (M) 36. A Confusion of Princes - Garth Nix (YA)(SF) 37. Redshirts - John Scalzi (SF) 38. Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban - JK Rowling (YA)(F)(R ) 39. The Golden Compass - Phillip Pullman (R )(YA)(F)(W/S) 40. Dead Ever After - Charlaine Harris (F)(V)(S) 41. Bloodsucking Fiends - Christopher Moore (V)(S)(BC) 42. Ever After - Kim Harrison (F)(S)(V) 43. Shades of Gray - Jasper Fforde (F)(SF) 44. Spirit Bound - Richelle Mead (F)(V)(S)(YA) 45. Last Sacrifice - Richelle Mead (F)(V)(S)(YA) 46. Asylum - Kristen Selleck (S)(F) 47. The Perks of Being a Wallflower - Stephen Chbosky (YAish) (BC) 48. Chalice (again) 49. The Infernals - John Connelly (YA)(S)(F) 50. A Reliable Wife - Robert Goolrick 51. The Iron Wyrm Affair - Lilith Saintcrow (S)(F) 52. The Subtle Knife - Phillip Pullman (R )(YA)(F)(W/S) 53. Summon the Keeper - Tanya Huff (F)(V)(S) 54. Virals - Kathy Reichs (S)(YA)(SF) 55. Dustlands: Blood Red Road - Moira Young (S)(F) 56. Never Let Me Go - Kazuo Ishiguro (BC) 55. The Book of Lost Things - John Connelly (BC) 56. Oryx & Crake - Margaret Atwood (SFF)(S) 57. The Human Division - John Scalzi (SF)(S) 58. Unfortunately the Milk - Neil Gaiman (YA) 59. In the Woods - Tara French (S)(M) (BC) 60. The Cookoo's Calling - Robert Galbraith/JKR 61. A Christmas Carol - Charles Dickens - Classics Illustrated Edition (R for text)(GN) 62. Redifining Girly - Melissa Atkins Wardy (NF) (MY NAME IS IN THE ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS! ;-) 63. The Life and Advertures of Santa Claus (YA)(W/S) (BC) ...I feel like I'm forgetting something here...   Started in 2012 or before, finished in 2013     In progress (if not started in 2013, starting year in parens) Ulysses - James Joyce (started 2005, completely restarted in 2011) Everything You Know About God is Wrong - Russ Kick (NF) (SW) (2010)   The Night Circus - Erin Morgenstern The Amber Spyglass - Phillip Pullman (R )(YA)(F)(W/S)     Island of the Could Not Finish The Windup Girl - Paolo Bacigalupi Prospero Lost - L. Jeri Lamplighter (F) I am a Cat - Soseki Natsume (AOC) Fierce Invalids Home from Hot Climates - Tom Robbins (got to pg 277 and just couldn't give a crap anymore)   Some coding:(AOC) = Author of Color/(BC)= Book Club/(F) = Fantasy/(GN) = Graphic Novel/(H) = Horror/(M) = Mystery/(NF) = Non-fiction/(R ) = Reread/(S) = Series/(SF) = Science Fiction/(SW) = Short Works/(V) = Vampires, werewolves, and witches, oh my!/(YA) = Young Adult
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2012 Reading

Books read/started/finished/etc. in 2012.   Read Entirely in 2012 1. Artimis Fowl - Eoin Cofer (S)(YA)(F) (Technically I started this in 2011, but I reread what I'd already read, so I'm counting it for 2012.) 2. Eternals - Neil Gaiman (GN) (S) 3. Land of Laughs - Johnathan Carroll 4. Yseult: A Tale of Love in the Age of King Arthur - Ruth Nestvold (F) 5. The Wright 3 - Blue Balliett (YA)(M) 6. Chalice - Robyn McKinley (F)(R ) 7. Black Wine - Candas Jane Dorsey (F) 8. The Gypsy Morph - Terry Brooks (F)(S)(SF) 9. Lord John and the Scottish Prisoner - Diana Gabaldon (S) 10. The Hangman's Daughter - Oliver Pötzsch 11. Magic Bites - Ilona Andrews (F)(V)(S) 12. Lament: The Faerie Queen's Deception - Maggie Stiefvater (YA)(F) 13. The Eyre Affair - Jasper Fforde (S)(F)(SF) 14. The Righteous - Michael Wallace (S)(M) 15. We Need to Talk About Kevin - Lionel Shriver 16. The Invisible Man (Illustrated Classics) - HG Wells (GN) 17. Snuff - Terry Pratchett (S)(SF) 18. Old Man's War - John Scalzi (SF) (S) 19. The Selkie Spell - Sophie Moss (F)(S) 20. The Ghost Brigades - John Scalzi (SF)(S) 21. Mighty and Strong - Michael Wallace (S)(M) 22. Mummy (Ramses the Damned) - Anne Rice (F)(V) 23. Naamah's Blessing - Jacqueline Carey (F)(S) 24. Circle of Magic: Tris's Book - Tamora Price (S)(F)(YA) 25. The Android's Dream - John Scalzi (SF) 26. Pegasus - Robin McKinley (F)(YA) 27. Fuzzy Nation - John Scalzi (SF) 28. Something Wicked This Way Comes, the Authorized GN - Ray Bradbury, Ron Wimberly (GN)(F)(R- for text) 29. American Gods 10th Anniversary Edition - Neil Gaiman (F)(R- for all but the preferred text bit) 30. Wicked - Michael Wallace (S)(M) 31. Green Shadows, White Whale - Ray Bradbury 32. The Grimm Curse: Once Upon A Time Is Now - Stephen Carpenter(?) (S)(F)(YAish) 33. Shadow Show: All-New Stories in Celebration of Ray Bradbury - Mort Castle,Sam Weller, eds. (SW) (F)(SF) 34. Beautiful Creatures - Kami Garcia, Margaret Stohl (F) (YA) (S) 35. Ghost of a Chance - Simon Green (S)(F) 36. The Grimm Curse: Girl in the Red Hoodie - Stephen Carpenter(?) (S)(F)(YAish) 37. The Red Tree - Caitlin R. Kiernan (M)(H)(F) 38. The Girl Who Circumnavigated Fairyland in a Ship of Her Own Making - Cathrynne Valente (YA)(F)(S) 39. Cry Wolf - Patricia Briggs (S)(V) 40. Alpha & Omega - Patricia Briggs (S)(SW)(V) 41. EDGE - Various (GN)(SW) 42. Taliesin - Stephen R. Lawhead (F)(S) 43. Hunting Ground - Patricia Briggs (S)(V) 44. Fifty Shades of Gray - E.L. James (S) 45. Fair Game - Patricia Briggs (S)(V) 46. Season of the Harvest - Michael R. Hicks (S) (SFish) 47. Deadlocked - Charlene Harris (S)(V) 48. Echo - Jack McDevitt (S)(SF) 49. Seer of Sevenwaters - Juliet Marillier (S)(F) 50. Kraken - China Mieville (F) 51. Cthulhu Tales Omnibus: Delirium (GN) (SW) 52. The Eyes of the Killer Robot - John Bellairs (S)(M)(YA) 53. Why Have Kids? - Jessica Valente (NF) 54. Talon of the Unnamed Goddess, a Fantasy Adventure - C. R. Daems and J. R. Tomlin (F) 55. The Last Colony - John Scalzi (S)(SF) 56. Tommyknockers - Stephen King (H) 57. The Casual Vacancy - JK Rowling 58. Katwalk - Karen Kijewski (M)(S) 59. Flush - Carl Hiassen (YA) 60. Skin Tight - Carl Hiassen 61. Irish Moon - Amber Scott (S)(F) 62. Scrooge and Marley - Karl F. Hollenbach (S sort of) 63. The Christmas Tree - Charles Dickens (NF sort of)(SW) 64. Hogfather - Terry Pratchett ®(S)(F) 65. A Christmas Carol - Charles Dickens ® 66. Old Christmas - Washington Irving (NF sort of)(SW) 67. A Leaf on the Wind of All Hallows: An Outlander Novella - Diana Gabeldon (S)(SW) 68. Dodger - Terry Pratchett (YA) 69. Uncle Montague’s Tales of Terror - Priestley, Chris (YA)   Chapter books read with Son 1. Dogs in the Dead of Night (MTH 46) 2. Half Moon Investigations - Eoin Coifer Supernaturals-Eoin Coifer 3. The Wright 3 - Blue Balliett 4. Throne of Fire - Richard Riordon 5. Abe Lincoln at Last (MTH 47) 6. Charlie Bone 1 7. The Phantom Tollbooth 8. Hoot - Carl Hiassen 9. Chasing Vermeer - Blue Balliet (s) 10. Scat - Carl Hiassen 11. Chomp - Carl Hiassen 12. The Neverending Story - ®(F)   Started in 2011 or before, finished in 2012 Dances With Dragons - George R.R. Martin (S)(F) Halloween - Paula Guran (SW) (F) (2011) Who Let the Dogs In - Molly Ivins (2008) (SW) (NF)   In progress (if not started in 2012, starting year in parens) Ulysses - James Joyce (started 2005, completely restarted in 2011) Everything You Know About God is Wrong - Russ Kick (NF) (SW) (2010)     Island of the Could Not Finish Barry Trotter and the Unauthorized Parody   Some coding:(AOC) = Author of Color/(F) = Fantasy/(GN) = Graphic Novel/(H) = Horror/(M) = Mystery/(NF) = Non-fiction/(R ) = Reread/(S) = Series/(SF) = Science Fiction/(SW) = Short Works/(V) = Vampires, werewolves, and witches, oh my!/(YA) = Young Adult
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2011 Reading Analysis

Wow. So this was one my my less stellar years in terms of reading. Ironically, I think that getting a Kindle actually worked against me, as it made it so much easier to be a magpie, play little word games, etc. So time I might otherwise have spent reading got sucked into playing strange logic puzzles. I also think I might have lost a couple of quick reads between October and November.   The Kindle did make it easier to make progress on some of my long-term reading projects, like Ulysses. While I'm still a long way from done, having it with me wherever I have the Kindle means I plugged away more than I would have if the book just stayed by my bed. Also, my copy was lovely in its way, but it is old, has some cover damage and the 60s era cover had to be taped on, so having it in a sleak electronic format is a more friendly reading experience (note that doesn't mean I'm getting rid of the hardcopy :-).   Along those lines, I had hoped to make 2011 the year I finished everything on my previously started list, which clearly didn't happen. I did read at least part of every single book still outstanding and I think it's realistic to think at least 4 of those will be cleared out this year (I've already finished ADWD and just started up with AF again, so that's one down, one probably finished by the end of the month). There's not much left of the Molly Ivins - it's sort of a crime that I've not completed that one, to be honest, and Halloween will be resurrected come fall. So there.   I did discover a ton of new authors this year, reading more than one book (and in a couple of cases, entire series) by Suzanne Collins, , Charles DeLint, Terry Brooks, Lee Carroll, and Daniel Suarez, and one offs by Jacqueline West, Cyril Pedrosa, Tamora Pierce and Daniel Kraus. I also discovered a lot of new possibilities via the Steampunk anthology (which contains a story by one of my dearest friends) and the Halloween anthology (which I shall finish next fall, natch).   Normally, this is where I go through a detailed accounting of new vs. old, genre, etc. But I kind of don't really care. I like knowing what I read and so long as I liked it, I'm not sure it matters that much one way or another.
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Everything you ever wanted to know about books...

Edited 4/4/13 to add links to amz, etc.   Amazon Bookmooch - woefully out of date and a combo of me, my husband and my kid Goodreads - not so much a wishlist, but sort of what I'm poking around with   Okay, maybe not exactly, but it dawned on me that it might not be a bad idea to toss my answers to the recent bookworm swap over this away, for the curious.     What kind of books do you usually like? Any favorite authors, genres, or topics?   I love urban and traditional fantasy, whether it be about vampires, fairies, steampunk or something strange happening in a castle far away. I definitely like the supernatural twist and have a yen for post-apocalyptic tales (e.g. Terry Brooks) and mystery and fantasy kids lit (think John Bellairs, Harry Potter, Neil’s kids books, the Garth Nix "Keys to the Kingdom" series, the Uglies series, and Clive Barker's kids books). I also like straight mysteries (particularly about the southwest US (Nevada Barr, J.A. Jance, Tony Hillerman, Kirk Mitchell) and I also really like Peter Robinson's Inspector Banks series) and am woefully behind on new developments in that genre. Fave authors include Neil Gaiman, Ray Bradbury, Octavia Butler, Julliet Marrillier, Robin McKinley, Jacqueline Carey, Catherynne M. Valente, JK Rowling, John Bellairs, Jonathan Carroll, ...I could go on for a while, but the links below should really help. And I'm just getting into Charles de Lint.   Pulling a list from a similar swap (kind of repetitive, but more info is better, right?):   *Urban fantasy(DeLint, Gaiman, lots of people I really need to read, I'm sure) *Magical realism (Jonathan Carroll and the like) *Quasi-historical fantasy (I'm thinking things like a Juliet Marillier and some of the non-adaptation McKinley here and I'd probably put Outlander in this category for my purposes since I don't otherwise tend to enjoy historical romance) *Supernatural romance (vampire, werewolves, zombies, OH MY! Things I'm pretty well caught up on incudes Charlaine Harris, Kim Harrison, Kelly Armstrong, and I've read most LK Hamilton to the point where I just can't anymore ;-) *Sci-fi (although I tend to gravitate toward short stories in this genre - a la Ray Bradbury - and more worldbuilding Steampunky sorts of stuff than hard tech-geeky a-bunch-of-guys-land-on-a-strange-planet sort of stuff) *Mysteries/crime/detective novels (tho I'm more into the actual crime solving than the legal wrangling, so, more Sara Paretsky/Raymond Chandler/Michael Connelley than Scott Turow/John Grisham, also I sort of love true crime, which I rarely admit to and never seek out but adore when it falls in my lap) *Fairy tales (classics and adaptations and totally new interpretations) *Mythology adaptations (really, just kind of in love with adaptations of almost any sort, including comic versions especially the original text classics) *Authurian/Avalon myth (this is a fairly recent acquisition, so it's good mining as well is my guess. I've got MZB covered, but otherwise...) *Comics/graphic novels (not so much superhero stuff for the most part, but there's a lot of BPAL related stuff I haven't read) *Kids lit of any of the above, especially the mystery/fantasy bit (loving Rick Riordan with my 8 year old right now!)   Any authors, genres or topics you really dislike?   I am not a fan of Jim Butcher, oddly. I should be, but he just doesn't grab me. Similarly, Holly Black and I have never really hit it off. I think most of my other "dislikes" are touched on below.   Do you consider yourself "well-read"? Well-read within a particular genre?   Kinda, in that I read all-the-damn-time. There are huge gaping holes in my knowledge base, though, as I'm kind of a magpie.   How do you feel about classics?   I'm kind of embarassed to admit this, but kind of meh. I love Dickens, but otherwise, can pretty much take or leave most lit written before 1900. I know, I'm a philistine.   Would you like something challenging/outside your comfort zone or would you prefer something fairly close to what you know you like?   I would definitely like *something* in my comfort zone. There's a pretty deep well there, I think. I would absolutely love to discover new authors within genres I like and am happy to discover things kind of on the fence. Pride, Prejudice and Zombies sorts of crossovers hold no interest for me, though.   How do you feel about nonfiction?   I'm typically not a huge fan, to be honest. I do tend to like narrative non-fic storytelling along the lines of Sarah Vowell or Chuck Klosterman (I just bought his new novel, FYI), but I really look to recreational reading for escapism. I do love a good political firebrand, but I have a lot of that unread on my shelves at the moment. Although, as noted above, true crime is kind of my secret shame.   Are you ok with something like a graphic novel or young adult book?   Abso-frikkin-lutely. I love graphic novels and YA lit.   What makes you pick a book up and want to read it right away? What makes you put something down and never want to pick it up again?   You know, I have no idea. My main go-to books that I read over and over again are Gaiman's Neverwhere, McKinley's Chalice and the Harry Potter series. They are all escapist fantasy to some extent, but I read plenty of other things in the same genres, but don't feel compelled to read them repetedly. Those books, though, feel like slipping between the pages and into a whole new world, almost like pulling up the covers in bed on a cold night. I know I just mixed my metaphors, but I don't care. ;-) In terms of putting things down, while I have no particular issues with violence and gore, being shocking and gross just for the sake of being shocking and gross just doesn't appeal to me. And I have no issues with genre tropes, but I really really need a story and some fabulous characterization as well.   Would you be open to receiving ebooks? If so, what sort of reader do you have, and do you prefer electronic or physical books?   YES! I would love/prefer kindle books, to be honest, but would be perfectly happy to get physical goodness as well. And for anything with color pics (e.g. graphic novels) the Kindle just won't cut it. For physical books, used is a-ok.
emzebel

emzebel

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~Snow Bunny Quests~

NEW QUESTIONS ADDED 11.21 3:30 ish   Milk or dark chocolate: Yes please! I like to think that I prefer dark, but really, secretly, I think I like milk just a little better, and I prefer bits in (crispies, caramel, fruit, etc). White is nice too.   Sooo. Yules. Those just happened. What are you interested in, Bunny? I ordered everything that I'm seriously interested in and have updated my wishlist with what I didn't order.   Coin purses: I think I already answered this one, but I probably wouldn't get much use out of one.   If your fox were to knit something for you, would it be a lacy shawl or a pair of socks? Yes please! I really truly would love either.   Would anyone else be interested in a soap dish or something like that? I don't really have a use (or a place) for one, honestly.   Are you a Harry Potter fan? If so, which house do you identify with, and why? Would you want knitted things/replicas/accessories in your house colours? YES! I'm mostly Ravenclaw, with a side of either Gryffindor or Slytherin, depending on who's sorting. I would love a house scarf, as I think I already mentioned.   Are there any Yules from *PAST* years that you're interested in trying? Including past winter inquisitions? There's nothing that screams at me, but what I want to try is in my wishlist.   Let's talk about fruit! Do you like dried fruit or h ate it? Like some but not others? I'm not opposed to it, but dried fruit is not something I'd ever actively seek out unless I'm making fruitcake. I do LOVE fruitcake.   How do you feel about cherries? Prefer the sweet or tart versions? Dried? Jam? Salsa? Hot sauce? BBQ sauce? All your cherries are belong to me. I'm not so into hot sauce, though.   Bunnies! What is your general philosophy about patterns for accessories such as socks, scarves, and tights? Do you like solids? Stripes? Polka dots? Weird patterns like harlequin-type stuff? Any of the above? Patterns are love. Random not-so-patterns are also love.   Bunny, are you interested in anything from Geek Chic Cosmetics?   I've never heard of them. I do wear makeup, but other than a nice blue-black mascara, I'm pretty set at the moment.   Chile, yay or nay? Herm. Neither? I like a little heat, but I'm set for spicy chocolate and it's not a flavor I actively seek out otherwise.   Would you rather have an early reveal, or would you prefer one close to the end of the round? I do love me a surprise, but so long as you reveal at some point, I'm good either way.   Stuffed microbes from Think Geek LOVE THEM! Every year I covet the Christmas boxes.   Baking supplies? I think I've covered this pretty well?   Anniversary Update! Does anything interest you, Bunny? The only one I didn't order was Midnight, since the jasmine has the potential to be fatal. I'd love a sniffie of that one, otherwise, I'm set.   Cthulhu, yes or no? Of course!     NEW QUESTIONS ADDED 11.7 @ 2:00ish   A question: reveal, yes or no? Please yes! I hate not knowing who to thank! I do love the suspense of wondering who is sending to me, though. I usually reveal in the last shipment.   Any favorite cuddly characters? I used to be really into Sanrio, but not so much anymore. I love Uglydolls. And Kermit. But mostly I just like soft cuddly things. I don't really collect anything anymore.   Charity gifts? Either fair-trade type stuff, or virtual type gifts, like vaccinations or school supplies being bought on your behalf, or something along those lines? Sure.   Bunny, are you interested in tarts from Two Timing Tart? What scents, if any, are you interested in? Wow, those look amazing. I'd be interested in trying tarts or candles of any of the following: Insomniac, Tease, Teatime With Mary Pickford, Innocence, Bombshell, ANY of the autumn or winter seasonals, Exp 3 or 5, Sex Kitten, Pornography   Do you need any holiday recipes? Is there something in particular that you'd like baked or made for you? And for those of you doing the no sugar/low sugar, etc. thing these days, how about savory things? I don't *need* any holiday recipes, but I'd love any you'd like to share, along with just about any baked goods. I like savories as well as sweets, but there's *no* need to avoid sugar.   Speaking about candles, how much do you look forward to the BPTP candles that will be launched on Etsy? I don't know if there will be other scents than the Samhain and Pumpkin Cookie one, but is there a specific one you are longing for? Both Samhain and Pumpkin Cookie sound amazing.   Does anyone have issues with gently used things like books, etc.? Not at all!   Are you a big ol' nerd for any particular subject? Science, math, linguistics, etc? Or particular authors/fandoms? Not really. The book post I linked below probably answers this best. I am sort of into Harry Potter fandom, but not madly. Probably my nerdiest passion is Shakespearian adaptations, like Kurasawa's Ran and Throne of Blood, Rosencranz and Gildenstern are Dead and the like.   Bunnies, how do you feel about lemon-flavored items, like lemon marmalade, lemon curd, lemon pound cake, or lemon cookies? All your lemon are belong to me.   Fingerless mittens or full mitts? Er...I've never had fingerless, so I have no idea! Although reading some of the comments to this one, it would seem that I need some fingerless gloves for those days when it's frakkin cold in my office and I can no longer use my space heater because it keeps tripping the breaker. Not that I'm bitter about that or anything.   Pink? I don't hate pink, especially if it veers toward raspberry/purply, but it's definitely not a fave.   Thematic scarves? Extrapolating from the Tom Baker scarf discussion, I am not enough of a Doctor Who fan to covet this particular scarf, but I would love a Hogwarts house scarf! Ravenclaw or Slytherin, or Slytherclaw (which would work well with the movie colors).   What are your opinions on traditional holiday cookie flavorings? I'm thinking anise and cardamom in particular. I'm not sure my love for anise and cardamom can be adequately conveyed through the written word. BRING THEM ON!!!!!   Do you like artisan oils and vinegars? Very much. I have rather a surplus of EVOO at the moment though. I keep meaning to make my own infused oils and can never gather the right supplies (bottles and such). In terms of vinegars, I love love love them.   Any crafty pursuits you’ve been dying to experiment with? Would you like a little kit of something you’ve never tried? Do you need any particular items for your new or existing stash? I would love to learn to knit, but I fail miserably at any yarncraft I try. I have done needlepoint in the past and am pretty good at it, but I haven't done it in years.   2012 calendar? Not really. We get really nice freebies through our zoo membership, so I'm set for my wall calendar. A page a day calendar could be fun if my Fox sees something that just screams my name, otherwise, I'm good, calendar wise.   NEW QUESTIONS ADDED 11.4 @ 3:00ish   Stealing coldandsleepy's idea to put the new ones first:   What was the best holiday present you ever got?   Oh wow. A couple of years ago my husband managed to completely and utterly surprise me with a stained glass window that is the perfect complement to one we already had hanging in our living room, which is awesome, both in terms of how well he knows me, how hard it was to find, and the fact that I had ABSOLUTELY no idea. And last year he managed to shock both my son and I with a piano. Also, our daughter was arguably conceived on/around our 13th wedding anniversary.   Bunny, what scent are you desperately wanting to be resurrected this year with the Anniversary update? Hrm. I hadn't really thought about it, but I guess, in terms of wishes, I'd go with King of Spades. Or the original Lugnasadah or Mabon.   Groupon for Moxie Nouveau! Dear Bunneh, is this something that would interest you? Honestly, I'm pretty much a BPAL loyalist. I've tried half a dozen or so other companies and just never like them as much as I do my BPAL.   Bun-bun, what's your favourite colour?   Purple! (Real purple, not lavender)   Your favourite gemstone?   Honestly, as long as it's sparkly and has pretty colors, I don't really have a favorite, per se. I love big chunky rocks of just about any sort.   Your favourite animal (real or imaginary)? Dragons! And spiders and bats and squids and frogs and lizards and penguins and...oh hell. I'm the mom who continues to buy her kid the 1000th stuffed animal because we don't have that species of buffalo yet. In terms of animals to live with, definitely cats and fish and frogs and lizards.   And do you have any intense phobias? Not really. I'm not fond of bees or wasps or other stingy things in my immediate presense, but I love representations of bees.   Facebook/twitter: I use my real name on facbook and pretty much only friend people I actually know and/or have had an extensive online relationship with. I'm emandink on twitter.   Are you Nano-ing this month, bunny? If so, how would you feel about merch/donations to the cause? Not this year, sadly.   Do you like/need boxes for perfume/knicknacks? I like them perhaps a little too much - I actually have some extra boxes, as I moved my BPAL to a cabinet a few years ago.   Coffee or tea? With caffine or without? Flavors (if so, what?) or no? Whole bean/ground/loose leaf/bags? Yes please! Coffee must have caffiene, tea can go whichever way it chooses. Love flavored coffee (vanilla/fruity/caramel/spicy), but only if ground, otherwise, love wholebean dark roasts with fruity/caramel notes. Flavored tea strongly preferred - similar likes + chocolate! Coffee grinding preferences as noted, tea bags are more convenient, but I am fully equiped for a wonderful loose leaf tea.   Do you have a strong preference for any sort of bath and body product brands (i.e. etailer/etsy type cos, department store/specialty brands like Lush) or are you cool with anything that doesn't smell like Bunnybane? I try to stick with small/woman owned companies where I can, but if you find something that seems right up my alley at Target, I will be thrilled no matter what.   ______________________________________________ Good golly y'all!   I'm going to throw this out up front because I totally forgot to mention it in my survey - please do not send me anything with artificial sweeteners. I can sometimes tolerate stevia, but a lot of them give me migraines and I just don't like them. I try to avoid HFCS as well, but I'd rather have something loaded with that than sucrolose or acesulfame.   1. $20 from Walgreens... I'd surely start in the makeup/nail polish aisle and would probably pick up some sort of totally impractical color(s) in one or both areas. Then, if I take it seriously and stay with the fun (as opposed to picking up one of the vitamin supplements I'm low on or something), then I'd probably grab some fun sparkly markers or pens (I love brightly colored sharpies), and then hit the chocolate aisle - depending on what I have left over and my mood, I'd either grab a Cadbury fruit and nut, some Lindt truffles, a marshmallow santa or whatever new strange chocolate caramel concoction is on sale. Or maybe HoHos.   2. I live near a brick and morter location for a really, really good spice store. Would you use cooking spices and if you would, what would you need? (It's Penzey's if you want to Google it.) I got the giant bakers gift crate for Christmas last year. So, er, nothing from that one, I guess. In general, except for curries, I tend to prefer solo herbs and spices to blends, and I have pretty good coverage at the moment for the basics, but I do love the idea. (And for starfish, I think? Their cinnamons are, indeed, amazing.)   3. Do you like knitted goods? If so, what would you like, what colors, and do you have any sensitivites or preference when it comes to type of yarn (ex: wool: yay or nay? Do you prefer machine washable materials? Do you not care?)? Absolutely love knitted goods. Strongly prefer machine washable and soft, but I'm not allergic to wool or anything. I am all about dark colors and jewel tones - black, grey, purple, green, blue, red. Not so much orange, yellow or pink...or white or brown.   4. Hey swap partner... could you use a new mug? I can always use a new mug, size large.   5. Is there any sort of regional food/drink/treat you miss or have always wanted to try? I love flavored/varietal honeys and those maple sugar leaves. Are those regional? Also, Indian and British sweets. In general, I would love to try anything that my Fox considers her regional specialties.   6. Do you do a Christmas tree? If yes is it themed or specially colored or do you just have all different ornaments and such? We do do a tree and it is a total mishmash of things from my childhood, ornaments gifted to the kids (lots of snowmen and alligators, and snowgators...long story) and just pretty things we've purchased over the years.   7. Would you like a special ornament? Sure! We tend to do cute, but not "country", fwiw.   8. Tim Tams. Yay or nay? Yes please!   9. I know some people are squicked out at the idea of eating things that other people make, or the thought of deep fried cookies sends them into cardiac arrest. If you were my fox, would you like to receive some homemade goodies, or would you prefer that your goodies came from the store? I would love homemade goodies. Maybe not deep fried cookies, though.   10. Would any Bunny like to receive Holiday serving bowls, trays, platters etc...? Winter/Christmas or Thanksgiving/Fall themed? Sure! I host Thanksgiving every year and Christmas Eve dinner and love holiday themed dishes.   11. My lovely fluffy Snow Bunny, would you like a body scrub made by me? If so, what scent(s) would you like, if you had to think along the lines of essential oils? And would you prefer sugar or salt? A dryer scrub or one that's more oily/moist? Ooh, absolutely. I love scrubs (oily/moist sugar typically, although I wouldn't say no to a citrussy salt scrub). I think I covered my general scent preferences pretty well in my questionaire, but holiday scents I particularly like are grapefruit + pine/spruce or sweet/cookie type scents with pine/spruce.   12. Dear snow bunny, do you like candles? If yes, then what kind? Scented (what scents), unscented, what colors, do you like them plain/painted on the outside/with decorations attached to the surface/sculpted? Love candles, especially this time of year (holiday cookie/christmas tree/spicy are alwaus good, although not so much cinnamon). I tend to prefer jar candles or votives, since I have kids and need to keep them out of the way.   13. Also what do you think of little soaps? I know most people don't use soaps nowadays but I love the chocolate/vanilla/cocoa/butter/sugar combo scents that I see at beauty stores.... Love them!   14. Socks! Slippers! Do you love them or not really wear them? If you love them, do you also love Sock Dreams? Love socks (generally not more than knee highs, though, and generally in the colors I listed above or holiday. Holiday socks are love!), love Sock Dreams (especially BBella). I do wear slippers, but I'm pretty particular about them, so that could be tough.   15. Would you wear something like http://www.ravelry.c...astic-cowl]this if your Fox were to knit you one? If so, what color? Hrm. That's not really my style, to be honest, unless it were big enough to use as a shawl instead.   16. New question: talk to me of coffee. Whole bean? Ground? Flavored, not flavored? Decaf, whole caff? Favorite roasters? Drip, french press, keurig? BRING ON THE TEA? Whole bean dark roast or flavored ground. Whole caff. (We have a grind and brew combo where you can't just switch out beans.) Locally, I like Beanetics, but I'm really not that picky. Tea is love and I'm all about the seasonal flavors and chocolate blends here, bags or loose.   17. Who else here loves or would like to try Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics? If so, what would you like? I've never heard of them.   18. Have you tried anything from Cocoa Pink and if so, what products and scents do you like or would like to try? I haven't. I'm not really that into hair stuff, as it's short and pretty low maintainance.   19. Anybody into nail polish? Any color or formula preferences? I like painting my toenails (my fingers never last long enough to make it worthwhile, to be honest), but I'm not "into" it, per se. I'd love a cool sparkly blue or green (and I do covet the Muppet colors that someone's supposed to be coming out with soonish), but it's not something anyone should go out of their way for.   20. If you found a $50 bill on the ground and were to place a Lab order, what would be in it? (And shipping is free through the magical BPAL unicorn!) Hmmmm. That's a tough one. Probably Tattered Lace and Ein Kuss Von Krampus from Dark Delacacies.   21. Is there any particular holiday DVD that you don't have that you would like to own? Nothing jumps to mind, as we tend to buy/tivo stuff as we get the itch for it.   22. How do you feel about superheros? Are you a Marvel or DC fan? Do you have a favorite hero? Generally I tend to be more of a Vertigo (Sandman/Hellblazer/Preacher/that sort) of gal. So, DC, I guess. I'm not so much into superheroes as I am darker graphic novel type comics.   23. would you like a Paintbox from Paintbox Soapworks? If so, which scents? That looks awesome, but I try to avoid glycerine soaps.   24. Do you have kids (or kid-like pets) who your fox may want to take into account, either in terms of a little extra goody or simple safety? 2 kids (8 year old boy, 18 month old girl, he tends to inherit all wee toys, stickers and to share in appropriate snacky things). Also 2 cats, but they tend to stick to themselves and actually don't really do the treat thing. Same with the fish/snails and the hermit crab.   25. Lush? I love the Buche de Noel cleanser, Lemony Flutter and I tend to like a lot of the holiday bubble bar scents, so long as they aren't floral (I haven't had a chance to go through this year's offerings though). I don't like their soaps at all, which makes me sad, since they tend to sound delightful.   26. Honey/Beeswax? Honey is an absolute yes. Not sure what I'd do with beeswax, but if it came with suggestions, I'd be game, I guess.   27. TJs - we have them around here but they are always horribly crowded on the weekends and I can just never be bothered. I do really like their crumpets, though.   28. Paintbox Yulies? - So, while I'm not up for the soaps, scrubs and lotion are always good. Snoggin sounds devine, as does Comfort and Joy. White Snow, Bright Snow and the Victorious Sun sound nice too...For that matter, looking at the rest of the LEs, Avast, Guy Faukes, Indian Summer and Smiling Jack all sound lovely.   29. If I were to place ONE LAST Weenie order, (uh, which I will) what would you want me to include for you? (presuming that is that the order can get here in time, bites nails)? I did a pretty good job on this year's Weenies on my on. The stuff on my wishlist is pretty much stuff I just want to sniff. This is prolly as good a place as any to mention that I know my WL is pretty heavy on harder to find/LE type stuff. While I always love BPAL, I totally don't expect it.   Will you be away for any part of the round? Nope.   Anyone else with an Etsy store and a member of Tradeaholics (or you could join) and interested in bartering for gifts for their bunny? Nope.   What type of books do you like? Dying to read anything? I adore books. I keep a running list of everything I've read throughout the year here in my .org blog - it goes back to 2007, I think. Yeep. I may just make a new post with my answers to the Bookworm swap, to be honest, since that's prolly the easiest way to keep track of things (here!. But I do love interesting, not too sappy, holiday stories. And I'm jonsing for some Authurian legends at the moment for some reason (not MZB, as I've either read or have on my to read shelves many of her books). Also, I love a Kindle, if that matters. ;-)   If you like Christmas music (or anyother holiday music, for that matter), what kind of style do you like? Traditional? Modern and poppy? Indie? I love Christmas and holiday music and I'm a sucker for modern/indie compilations. I have a lot of holiday music though (I wanna say 300+ songs on my iPod), but I haven't gotten anything in the past couple of years.   Do you enjoy things that taste like roses? For example chewing gum, turkish delight, delicious goo that you eat by the spoonful out of a glass jar (and they all taste of rose. Yes, we have all these in Greece.)   I do! Lavender as well. I don't really chew gum though.   Also, same question about mastic. Would you be interested in trying it out? (If yes, any preferences? for example you would prefer to try the chewing gum, the turkish delight, an Easter bun, the raw resin itself, anything?)   I don't think I've ever tried it, but I'm always up for new experiences.   I live in the city of the chickenwing. If I were to send you something savory, what's your heat tolerance (or sweet and heat for that matter)? I like things spicy, but not necessarily hot, if that makes any sense? Nothing more than a "medium", basically. I do love sweet-spicy combos (chili chocolate, baked goods, etc, but mostly if I can actually taste the flavors). That being said, I'm really not a huge fan of the chickenwing.   If your fox/bunny were to gift you with a giftcard from anywhere, as in any store food wise, music wise etc. what giftcard would you like? Amazon is always good, as is Starbucks, since I do like to treat myself there ocassionally. Other online only options would be Sock Dreams, Soap Box, Villainess, someplace similar that my Fox wants to surprise me with. I'm always up for discovering new places. Lego would be fun too.   If I were to send you chocolate is there anything I should avoid as in nuts, cherries etc.? Also, what are some of your favorite holiday candies? I'm not real nuts about nuts (HA!), unless there's lots of dried fruit and other stuff (e.g., the aforementioned fruit & nut bar). I love caramel, marshmallow, cherries, other fruity bits. Also, despite not being a huge fan of nuts, I do love marzipan. One thing I've learned about myself recently is that while I do love high quality chocolate (or moderate, even) with bits in, I don't like things that are too outlandish, like curry or fennel. My love affair with Vosges is suffering for this fact, as I like their caramels and truffles, but not so much the candy bars. In terms of holiday faves, divinity, fudge, peppermint chocolates, marzipan and I love me a marshmallow santa.   Does anything from FusionSweets interest you? The caramel marshmallows sound AMAZEBALLS. As do the chocolate orange marshmallows. If I were to do a pick 4, I'd choose the chocolate marshmallow, grasshopper, lavender and vanilla. For caramels, the apple cider, lemon ginger, star anice etc, and French lavender honey all sound fabulous. But I have alot of caramels about right now, so the marshmallows would definitely be my first choice.   Interested in anything from the Elements and Artifacts Yule update? I almost bought these yesterday. Everything else I wanted is long gone.   Mulling spices? I love mulling spices, but unless my Fox likes to make their own amazing blend, I have a jar of Penzy's on hand for this season.
emzebel

emzebel

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Books for 2011

Books read/started/finished/etc. in 2011.   Read Entirely in 2011 1. I Shall Wear Midnight - Terry Pratchett (F) (YA) (S) (368 pages) 2. Lord John and the Hand of Devils - Diana Gabaldon (F) (SW) (S) 3. Hellboy: The Wild Hunt - Mike Mignola (F)(GN) (S) 4. Rough Country - John Sanford (S)(M) 5. Hunger Games - Suzanne Collins (F)(S)(YA) 6. Steampunk - Ann & Jeff VanderMeer (SF) (SW) (400 pages) 7. Bread and Butter Indian - Anne Culver (YA) (R ) 8. Graphic Classics Edgar Allen Poe (GN) (partial reread for text) 9. The Shadows (Elsewhere Book 1) - Jacqueline West (YA) (F) 10. Percy Jackson: The Lightning Thief - Rick Riordan (YA) (F) (S) 11. Catching Fire - Suzanne Collins (F)(S)(YA) 12. Mad With Wonder - Frank Beddor, Sami Makkonen (GN) (F) 13. Percy Jackson: Sea of Monsters - Rick Riordan (YA) (F) (S) 14. Mockingjay - Suzanne Collins (F)(S)(YA) 15. Mystery and Dream - Charles DeLint (F) 16. The Titan's Curse - Rick Riordan (YA) (F) (S) 17. The Battle of the Labyrinth - Rick Riordan (YA)(F)(S) 18. The Last Olympian - Rick Riordan (YA)(F)(S) 19. Pale Demon - Kim Harrison (F)(V)(S) 20. The Blue Castle - L.M. Montgomery (YA) (R ) 21. Muse and Reverie - Charles de Lint (F)(SW) 22. River Marked - Patricia Briggs (S)(V) 23. The Mystery of Grace - Charles de Lint (F) 24. The Painted Boy - Charles de Lint (F)(YA) 25. Three Shadows - Cyril Pedrosa (GN) (F) 26. Burn - Nevada Barr (S)(M) 27. Dingo - Charles de Lint (F)(YA) 28. Circle of Magic: Sandry's Book - Tamora Pierce (YA)(F)(S) 29. Widdershins - Charles de Lint (F) 30. Chalice - Robin McKinley (F)® 31. Armagaddon's Children - Terry Brooks (F) © 32. Elves of Cintra - Terry Brooks (S)(F) 33. Storm Born - Rachelle Mead (S)(V)(F) 34. The Black Swan - Lee Carroll (S)(V)(F) 35. Angel Fire East - Terry Brooks (S)(F) 36. Thorn Queen - Rachelle Mead (S)(V)(F) 37. Freedom - Daniel Suarez (S) (SF) 38. Daemon - Daniel Suarez (S)(SF) 39. Bad Boy - Peter Robinson (S)(M) 40. Santa Olivia - Jacqueline Carey (F)(V) 41. Rotters - Daniel Kraus (YA) 42. The Watchtower - Lee Carrol (S)(F) 43. Iron Crowned - Rachelle Mead (S)(V)(F) 44. Downtown Owl - Chuck Klastermam 45. Rule 34 - Charles Stross (SF) (S) 46. Endangered Species (Lost novelizations) (S)(SF)(F) 47. A Christmas Carol - Charles Dickens ®   Chapter books read with Son 1. The Daring Adventures of Penhaligon Brush - S. Jones Rogan (2010) 2. The London Eye Mystery 3. The Curse of the Romeny Wolves - S. Jones Rogan 4. Leprechaun in Late Winter (MTH 43) 5. Crazy Day with Cobras (MTH 45) 6. Tales from the Oddessey v1 7. Tales from the Oddessey v2 8. D'Aulaires' Book of Greek Myths 9. D'Aulares Norse Gods and Monsters ® 10. Greek something 11.Greek something 12. The Lightning Thief 13. Sea of Monsters 14. The Titan's Curse 15. The Red Pyramid 16. Abarat 17. The Halloween Tree - Ray Bradbury 18. Artemis Fowl: The Arctic Incident     Started in 2010 or before, finished in 2011   In progress (if not started in 2011, starting year in parens) Ulysses - James Joyce (started 2005, completely restarted in 2011) Who Let the Dogs In - Molly Ivins (2008) (SW) (NF) Everything You Know About God is Wrong - Russ Kick (NF) (SW) (2010) Dances With Dragons - George R.R. Martin (S)(F) Halloween - Paula Guran (SW) (F) Artimis Fowl - Eoin Cofer (S)(YA)(F)       Island of the Could Not Finish   Some coding:(AOC) = Author of Color(F) = Fantasy(GN) = Graphic Novel(M) = Mystery(NF) = Non-fiction(R ) = Reread(S) = Series(SF) = Science Fiction(SW) = Short Works(V) = Vampires, werewolves, and witches, oh my!(YA) = Young Adult
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2010 Reading Analysis

This year may be the year that gets me to start tracking pages read; because while I did not come terribly close to 100 books (totaling 82 books in their entirety, 84 with the ones started before 2010, although 132/4 with the ones read with my son, but I typically don’t count those toward my own totals) I would be willing to bet that I came pretty close to my page totals for previous years, thanks largely to discovering Diana Gabaldon and rereading the entire Harry Potter series. I also did a lot of magazine and other non-tracked reading (I am not counting skimming through pregnancy and baby-care books, for example) and had a fair amount of external distraction (hello new baby and having not been totally alone in my house since May).   Just skimming, this year had fewer really short (>300 pages) YA and urban fantasy/paranormal romance sorts of books, fewer graphic novels which I tend to polish off in a few hours as most, and a lot more really dense, really long books.   Some quick totals:   82 books read in their entirety. 2 books finished from previous years. 50 chapter books read in whole or in part with my son. 4 books which I just could not finish – interestingly, all by authors that I have really enjoyed in the past and 3 of which were installments in series where I’ve enjoyed the other books.   Of the 82 books I read in full, they breakdown along my coding as follows:   Author of Color – 1 (wow, that’s pathetic) Fantasy – 44 (my most common genre this year with 5 more than last year) Graphic Novel – 19 (hum, actually 2 more than last year- but at least two of what I categorized as GN were fairly long) Mystery - 3 (way fewer straight mysteries this year than in the past – probably because I’m completely caught up with the series I read and haven’t introduced any new ones) Non-fiction – 1 Reread – 15 total rereads and 2 graphic novel adaptations where I’d read the original story, but not the adaptation Series –60 Science Fiction – 9 Short Works – 9 Vampires, werewolves, and witches, oh my! – 25 (3 more than last year, maybe because I included the 7 HPs?) Young Adult – 16 (way fewer than last year and tending toward the longer end (i.e. 300 plus pages))   Interestingly, even with almost ¾ of my reading being from series, nearly half – 40 total- unique authors are represented, with 12 totally new authors this year. That’s about the same number of unique authors, although fewer new ones this year.
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Books For 2010

Books read/started/finished/etc. in 2010.   Read Entirely in 2010 1. Frostbitten - Kelly Armstrong (S) (V) 2. Heart's Blood - Juliet Marillier (F) 3. Sandman: Fables and Reflections - Neil Gaiman (S)(R )(GN) (F) 4. Cybele's Secret - Juliet Marillier (S)(YA)(F) 5. The Man with the Golden Torc - Simon R. Green (F)(S)(SF) 6. Outlander - Diana Gabaldon (S)(F) 7. The Well of Shades - Juliet Marillier (F)(S) 8. Sandman: Brief Lives - Neil Gaiman (R )(S)(GN)(F) 9. The Orphan's Tales: In the Night Garden - Catherine M. Valente (F)(S) 10. Mercy Thompson: Homecoming - Patricia Briggs (V)(GN)(S) 11. The Orphan's Tales: Cities of Coin and Spice - Catherine M. Valente (F)(S) 12. Once Dead, Twice Shy - Kim Harrison (V)(YA) 13. Grave Sight - Charlaine Harris (S)(V) 14. Flirt - Laurel K. Hamilton (S)(V) 15. Paladan of Souls - Lois McMaster Bujold (F) (S) 16. Dragonfly in Amber - Diana Gabaldon (F)(S) 17. City of Glass - Cassandra Claire (YA)(S)(F)(V) 18. Devine Misdemeaners - Laurel K. Hamilton (S)(V) 19. Charles Darwin's Origin of the Species (NF)(GN) 20. The Summoning - Kelly Armstrong (S)(YA)(V) 21. Men of the Otherworld - Kelly Armstrong (S)(V) (SW) 22. Sandman: World's End - Neil Gaiman (R )(S)(GN)(F) 23. Touch of Dead - Charlaine Harris (S) (SW)(V) 24. Lord Sunday - Garth Nix (S)(YA)(F) 25. Personal Demon - Kelly Armstrong (S)(V) 26. Living With the Dead - Kelly Armstrong (S)(V) 27. Sandman: The Kindly Ones - Neil Gaiman (R )(S)(GN)(F) 28. Fables: War and Pieces - Bill Willingham (S)(GN)(F) 29. Black Magic Sanction - Kim Harrison (S)(V) 30. Child of Fire - Harry Connelly (S)(V) 31. Jack of Fables: The (Nearly) Great Escape - Bill Willingham (S)(GN)(F) 32. Fables: The Dark Ages - Bill Willingham (S)(GN)(F) 33. Neverwhere - Neil Gaiman (R )(F) 34. Fables: The Great Fables Crossover - Bill Willingham (S)(GN)(F) 35. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone - JK Rowling (R )(S)(F)(YA) 36. Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets - JK Rowling (R )(S)(F)(YA) 37. Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban - JK Rowling (R )(S)(F)(YA) 38. Sandman: The Wake - Neil Gaiman (R )(S)(GN)(F) 39. Voyager - Diana Gabaldon (F)(S) 40. Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire - JK Rowling (R )(S)(F)(YA) 41. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix - JK Rowling (R )(S)(F)(YA) 42. Imago - Octavia Butler (S) (AOC)(SF) 43. Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince - JK Rowling (R )(S)(F)(YA) 44. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - JK Rowling (R )(S)(F)(YA) 45. Alex and the Ironic Gentleman - Adrienne Kress (YA) 46. Sirens of Titan - Kurt Vonnegut (SF) 47. Drums of Autumn - Diana Gabaldon (F)(S) 48. A Door in the Hedge - Robyn McKinley (F)(SW)(YA) 49. Tales of the Otherworld - Kelly Armstrong (S)(V) (SW) 50. The Firey Cross - Diana Gabaldon (F)(S) 51. Silver Borne - Patricia Briggs (S)(V) 52. Lord John and the Private Matter - Diana Gabaldon (F)(S) 53. The Homecoming - Ray Bradbury & Dave McKeon (SW)(GN)(R for story) 54. Pictures that Tick - Dave McKeon (SW)(GN) 55. Alibi Man - Tami Hoag (S) (M) 56. House of Mystery - Bill Willingham (GN) (S)(f) 57. Namaah's Curse - Jacqueline Carey (S) 58. Identity Crisis - Brad Meltzer & Rags Morales (GN) 59. Vampires Don't Sleep Alone - Elizabeth Barrial and DH Altair (V) 60. Peter and Max - Bill Willingham (S)(F) 61. World's End - Mark Chadbourn (S)(SF) 62. Exit Wounds - Rutu Modon (GN) 63. Darkest Hour - Mark Chadbourn (S)(SF) 64. The Gates - John Connolly (F) 65. A Breath of Snow and Ashes - Diana Gabaldon (F)(S) 66. Lord John and the Brotherhood of the Blade - Diana Gabaldon (F)(S) 67. Always Forever - Mark Chadbourn (S)(SF) 68. Dead in the Family - Charlaine Harris (S) (V) 69. The Lost Symbol - Dan Brown (S)(M) 70. Exile - Diana Gabaldon (F)(S)(GN) 71. Echo in the Bone - Diana Gabaldon (F)(S) 72. Now and Forever - Ray Bradbury (SF) 73. The Last Unicorn - Peter S. Begle (F) 74. Unseen Academicals - Terry Pratchett (SF) (S) 75. The Fall of Atlantis - Maron Zimmer Bradley (F) 76. A Christmas Carol and other Stories - Charles Dickens (R ) 77. Storm Prey - John Sanford (S)(M) 78. Angels and Other Strangers - Katherine Patterson (R ) (SW) 79. The Runaway Dragon - Kate Combs (YA) (F) 80. Steven Colbert's Tek Janson - (GN)(SF) 81. The Anarchist Convention and Other Stories - John Sayles (SW) 82. Sandman: The Dream Hunters - Neil Gaiman & P. Craig Russel (F) (GN) (R for story)     Chapter books read with Son 1. Odd and the Frost Giants - Neil Gaiman 2. D'Aulaire's Norse Gods & Giants - Ingri D'Aulaire 3. Fire and Wings: Dragon Tales from East and West - Marianne Carus 4. Favorite Norse Myths - Mary Pope Osborne 5. A Ring of Tricksters - Virginia Hamilton 6. The Gods and Goddesses of Ancient China - Leonard Everett Fisher 7. The Gods and Goddesses of the Ancient Maya - Leonard Everett Fisher 8. Children of the Dragon - Sherry Garland 9. Spellbound - Anna Dale 10. Kenny and the Dragon... 11. Magic Tree House 44 12. A Christmas Carol - Charles Dickens 13. The Daring Adventures of Penhaligon Brush - S. Jones Rogan (in progress as of 12-29) 14-37. The A-to-Z Mysteries - Ron Roy (Letters: A-L, N-U, W-Y, Special 1) 38. The Calendar Mysteries - Ron Roy (January) 39-50. The Boxcar Children Mysteries - Gertrude Changler Warner (1, 3-6, 8, 11, 14, 25, 51, 65, Special 11)   Started in 2009 or before, finished in 2010 Lover Avenged - J.R. Ward (2009) (S)(V) Jambalaya - L. Tisch (2007) (AOC) (NF)   In progress (if not started in 2010, starting year in parens) Ulysses - James Joyce (2005) Who Let the Dogs In - Molly Ivins (2008) (SW) (NF) Everything You Know About God is Wrong - Russ Kick (NF) (SW)   Island of the Could Not Finish 13 1/2 - Nevada Barr (2009) (M) Curse of Challion - Lois McMaster Bujold (F) (S) Lover Mine - JR Ward Bullet - Laurel K. Hamilton   Some coding:(AOC) = Author of Color(F) = Fantasy(GN) = Graphic Novel(M) = Mystery(NF) = Non-fiction(R ) = Reread(S) = Series(SF) = Science Fiction(SW) = Short Works(V) = Vampires, werewolves, and witches, oh my!(YA) = Young Adult
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2009 Reading Analysis

Wow, so, definitely met the standing 100+ books goal with 120 unique books last year. In addition, there were 2 books that I started prior to this year and finished, one that’s part of a mystery series, another non-fiction history of Haitian voodoo. I gave up on 5 books entirely. Of these, 3 were by authors I’ve read before and enjoyed, including one adaptation from a book I enjoyed originally and one sequel. As of Jan. 1, I had 5 books still in progress (note that of the 2 started in 2009, 1 I’ve given up on and 1 is completed, but that’s for a year from now). The 3 remaining are from previous years. Maybe this will be the year I actually plow through Ulysses.   I got pretty haphazard about tracking reading with the boy this year. Ultimately, I just started noting books that I would/have read on my own as well. I’m just not up for keeping track of 40 Scooby Doo chapter books.   As for the rest of the analysis: • 15 of these were rereads, and that doesn’t count that I read 1 book twice. • 83 were books in series of various kinds. • In terms of genre, 39 were fantasy (as defined personally), 37 were YA, 19 sci-fi, 22 involved vampires, werewolves or other staples of urban fantasy (I categorized these differently, because Anita Blake just feels different to me than, say, Mists of Avalon), 11 were mysteries • In terms of form, 5 were short works (usually short stories), 17 were graphic novels and 4 were non-fiction (and 1 of those was a graphic novel) • Looking at authors, only 8 books were written by authors identified as non-white, 26 total were new to me (accounting for roughly 38 books read) and approximately 58 distinct authors represented overall.   Every year I tend to beat myself up for the fact that I read a lot of genre fiction and not a lot of “classics” or books that are generally heralded as books of substance. But screw that. I read for entertainment and what entertains me are stories about vampires and fictional societies where magic exists in some form and dystopic alien worlds and mysteries where I can lose myself for a while. I could whip out my hairshirt about the fact that I don’t really enjoy biographies and non-fiction much outside of humorous pop-cult essays, but really, why bother. I still read more than probably 90% of the population and I’m teaching my kid to value reading for its own sake and am continuing to discover new sub-genres and authors that I thoroughly enjoy. So, go me. Or something like that.
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Books for 2009

Books read/started/finished/etc. in 2009.   Read Entirely in 2009 1. Heat Lightning - John Sandford (S) (M) 2. The Discworld Graphic Novels (The Color of Magic and The Light Fantastic)- Terry Pratchett (GN) (SF) (S) 3. Brisingr - Christopher Paolini (YA) (S) (F) 4. Stolen - Kelly Armstrong (S) (V) 5. MacBeth (original text graphic novel) (GN) 6. Blood Lite (anthology) (SW) (V) 7. Buried Onions - Gary Soto (AOC) (YA) 8. The Tattooed Potato and Other Clues - Ellen Raskin (YA) (R ) (M) 9. The Westing Game - Ellen Raskin (YA) (R ) (M) 10. The God of Small Things - Arundhati Roy (AOC) 11. City of Ember - Jeanne DuPrau (YA) (SF) (S) (F) 12. Fables: Sons of Empire - Bill Willingham (GN) (S) 13. Wild Ducks Flying Backwards - Tom Robbins (SW) 14. Blue Light - Walter Mosley (AOC) (SF) 15. Snow White and Rose Red - Patricia Wrede (F) 16. Coraline - Neil Gaiman (R ) (YA) 17. Fledgling - Octavia Butler (AOC) (V) 18. Dawn - Octavia Butler (AOC) (S) (SF) 19. American Gods - Neil Gaiman (F) (R ) 20. All the Colors of Darkness - Peter Robinson (M)(S) 21. White Witch, Black Curse - Kim Harrison (S) (V) 22. Blood Bound - Patricia Briggs (S) (V) 23. Chalice - Robin McKinley (F) (read a second time in December) 24. Beauty - Robin McKinley (F) 25. Dinosaur Tales - Ray Bradbury (R of most stories) (SF) (SW) 26. Wolfskin - Juliet Marillier (S) (F) 27. The Beast Under the Wizard's Bridge - John Bellairs/Brad Strickland (M) (S) (YA) 28. Wolf Tower - Tanith Lee (S) (F) (YA) 29. Superior Saturday - Garth Nix (F) (S) (SF) (YA) 30. Dime Store Magic - Kelly Armstrong (S) (V) 31. Industrial Magic - Kelly Armstrong (S) (V) 32. Four is a Crowd - Emily Chase (S) (YA) 33. Dead Girls are Easy - Terry Gerey (S) (V) 34. Lessons from the Fat-O-Sphere - Kate Harding & Marianne Kirby (NF) 35. Taste of Night - Vicki Pettersson (S)(V) 36. Mists of Avalon - Marion Zimmer Bradley (S) (SF) 37. Iron Kissed - Patricia Briggs (S) (V) 38. Tithe - Holly Black (S) (F) (YA) 39. Uglies - Scott Westerfeld (S) (SF) (YA) 40. A Match Made in Hell - Terry Garey (S) (V) 41. Pretties - Scott Westerfeld (S) (SF) (YA) 42. Dead and Gone - Charlaine Harris (S)(V) 43. Nation - Terry Pratchett (YA)(SF) 44. Damage Control - J.A. Jance (S)(M) 45. Haunted - Kelly Armstrong (S) (V) 46. Specials - Scott Westerfeld (S) (SF) (YA) 47. Broken - Kelly Armstrong (S) (V) 48. Hatter M - Frank Beddor, et al (S)(GN)(F) 49. A Child Across the Sky - Jonathan Carroll (F) 50. Stormy Weather - Carl Hiassen 51. Foxmask - Juliet Marillier (S) (F) 52. Jenny of the Tetons - Kristiana Gregory (YA) 53. Appointment with Death - Agatha Christie (M) 54. Adulthood Rites - Octavia Butler (AOC) (S) (SF) 55. Lucky You - Carl Hiassen 56. Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (R ) (S) (F) (YA) 57. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (F) (R ) (S) (TA) 58. Ray Bradbury's Fahrenheit 451: The Authorized Adaptation - Ray Bradbury, Tim Hamilton (R for text) (GN) (SF) 59. Wicked Prey - John Sanford (M) (S) 60. Naamah's Kiss - Jacqueline Carey (S) (F) 61. 8th Confession - James Patterson (M) (S) 62. Extras - Scott Westerfeld (S) (SF) (YA) 63. The Forest House - Marion Zimmer Bradley (S) (F) 64. Heir to Sevenwaters - Juliet Marillier (S) (F) 65. Bone Crossed - Patricia Briggs (S) (V) 66. Sandman: Preludes and Nocturnes - Neil Gaiman (GN) (R ) (S) (F) 67. Rose Daughter - Robin McKinley (F) 68. White Apples - Jonathan Carroll (F) 69. Making Money - Terry Pratchett (S) (SF) 70. The Dark Mirror - Juliet Marillier (S) (F) 71. Fables: The Good Prince - Bill Willingham (GN) (S) 72. Embroideries - Marjane Satrapi (AOC) (GN) (S) 73. The Blade of Fortiu - Juliet Marillier (S) (F) 74. Sandman: The Doll's House - Neil Gaiman (GN) (R ) (S) (F) 75. The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen (v.1) - Alan Moore (GN) (S) (SF) 76. Coraline: The Graphic Novel - Neil Gaiman (GN) (R ) (F) (YA) 77. Succubus Blues - Rachelle Mead (S) (V) 78. The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen (v.2) - Alan Moore (GN) (S) (SF) 79. Skin Tight - Laurel K. Hamilton (S)(V) 80. Palimpsest - Catherynne M. Valente (F) 81. A Wizard of Earthsea - Ursula K. LeGuin (F) (S) 82. A People's History of the American Empire - Howard Zinn, et al (GN) (NF) 83. The Sharing Knife: Beguilement - Lois McMaster Bujold (F) (S) 84. The Gates of Sleep - Mercedes Lackey (S) (F) 85. Sandman: Dream Country - Neil Gaiman (GN) (R ) (S) (F) 86. Wildwood Dancing - Juliet Marillier (S) (F) (YA) 87. Skinny Dip - Carl Hiassan 88. Bread and Butter Journey - Anne Culver (YA) (S) (R ) 89. Cry Wolf - Patricia Briggs (S) (V) 90. No Humans Involved - Kelley Armstrong (S) (V) 91. Double Whammy - Carl Hiassan 92. The Wooden Sea - Jonathan Carroll (F) 93. Lady of Avalon - Marion Zimmer Bradley (S) (F) 94. The House Where Nobody Lived - Brad Strikland (YA) (M) (S) 95. City of Bones - Cassandra Clare (S)(YA) (V) 96. Touch of Twilight - Vicki Pettersson (S)(V) 97. The Halloween Tree - Ray Bradbury (R ) (YA) (SF) 98. The Time Traveler's Wife - Audrey Niffenegger 99. Sandman: Season of Mists - Neil Gaiman (GN) (R ) (S) (F) 100. Real Food for Mother and Baby - Nina Planck (NF) (S) 101. The Austure Academy - Lemony Snickett (YA) (S) 102. The Ersatz Elevator - Lemony Snickett (YA) (S) 103. The Vile Village - Lemony Snickett (YA) (S) 104. The Hostile Hospital - Lemony Snickett (YA) (S) 105. The Carniverous Carnival - Lemony Snickett (YA) (S) 106. The Slippery Slope - Lemony Snickett (YA) (S) 107. The Grim Grotto - Lemony Snickett (YA) (S) 108. The Pentultimate Peril - Lemony Snickett (YA) (S) 109. The End - Lemony Snickett (YA) (S) 110. Quicker than the Eye - Ray Bradbury (SW) (SF) 111. Feminist Theory from Margin to Center - bell hooks (NF) (AOC) 112. The Ghostway - Tony Hillerman (S) (M) 113. The Sharing Knife: Legacy - Lois McMaster Bujold (F) (S) 114. Sandman: Game of You - Neil Gaiman (GN) (R ) (S) (F) 115. The Sharing Knife: Passage - Lois McMaster Bujold (F) (S) 116. City of Ashes - Cassandra Clare (S)(YA) (V) 117. Kissing the Witch - Emma Donoghue (YA) (SW) (F) 118. The Sharing Knife: Horizon - Lois McMaster Bujold (F) (S) 119. A Christmas Carol - Charles Dickens (R ) 120. Odd and the Frost Giants - Neil Gaiman (YA) (F)   Chapter books read with Son 1-7 The Magic School Bus Chapter Books (v. 5, 14, 16-20) 8-11. Captain Underpants (v. 1, 3-5) Dinosaurs - Magic Treehouse Reference Book Teddy Roosevelt and the Treasure of Ursa Major - Ron Kidd Chasing George Washington - Ron Kidd Harry Potter and the Sorcerers Stone - JK Rowling (R for me) (S)   Started in 2008 or before, finished in 2009 1. Shakespeare's Christmas - Charlaine Harris (2008) (S) 2. Divine Horsemen, The Living Gods of Haiti - Myra Deren (2006) (NF)   In progress (if not started in 2009, starting year in parens) Ulysses - James Joyce (2005) Jambalaya - L. Tisch (2007) (AOC) (NF) Who Let the Dogs In - Molly Ivins (2008) (SW) (NF) 13 1/2 - Nevada Barr (M) Lover Avenged - J.R. Ward (S) (V)     Island of the Could Not Finish Guilty Pleasures v 2 - Laurel K. Hamilton (GN) (S) (V) One for the Money - Janet Evanovich (S)(M) Tag Against Time - Helen Hughes Vick (YA) (S) (SF) Un Lun Dun - China Mieville (YA) (F) No Defense - Kate Wilhelm (S)(M)   Some coding: (AOC) = Author of Color (F) = Fantasy (GN) = Graphic Novel (M) = Mystery (NF) = Non-fiction (R ) = Reread (S) = Series (SF) = Science Fiction (SW) = Short Works (V) = Vampires, werewolves, and witches, oh my! (YA) = Young Adult
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Analysis of 2008 Reading

First off, hot damn, did I ever meet my goal of 100 books for 2008.   I did a couple of things differently this year - first, because my son is now super into having me read him chapter books - which have ranged from classics like The Wizard of Oz to insipid Transformers tie-ins, I started tracking those separately, instead of counting substantive classics that I might actually choose to read on my own as part of my own count (as I did with things like Roald Dahl last year. The second is that I gave myself permission to not read things that I wasn't enjoying. Which means that rather than having my "couldn't finish" list consist of one book that actively revolted me, if a book didn't engage me and I didn't care about picking it up again, I just didn't. It was kind of a lovely feeling, and I actually wonder if it contributed to my longer reading list, since I wasn't forcing myself back to things that didn't capture my attention. The third change was how I listed - going in order of reading, as opposed to alphabetically by author. I like all of these changes and plan to keep them for 2009.   Anyway, my totals: 117 books read entirely in 2008 2 started in 2007, finished on 2008 62 books read with the boy 6 books in progress (one of which I finished just this morning) 2 books in progress with R 9 books kicked to the curb   An interesting thing about those last 9, too - 5 of them were by authors that I've read before and liked and of those, I read and enjoyed books by 4 of them just this year. Three were books in series were I thoroughly enjoyed the first book, but just couldn't get into the second. Three of the 9 were books in well regarded YA series. Another was a television tie in for a show I enjoy.   Of the books in progress, one I've already finished, two are books of short stories or essays that I fully expect to finish in 2009. I suppose I should make finishing the other three part of my reading resolutions for this year, in addition to reading another 100 books in their entirety.   The reading with my son doesn't really take too long to look at - most were series books, most were at least mildly educational, either by design or by virtue of being classics.   Now, the meat. Breaking down the 117 that I read entirely in 2008: * 108 were new to me, 9 were re-reads (if you count the fact that I had already read the text of Stardust) * 20 were children's/ya books (I didn't count some things are are sometimes shelved as YA in the library, such as some of the manga/graphic novels which were not specifically aimed at these age groups, S. Myers "The Host" or the Juliet Marillier books, which while certainly appropriate to a YA audience don't struck me as being marketed as YA - so, this could potentially be about 10 higher) * 22 were graphic novels, 1 of which was a GN version of a book I've read several times, another of which was related to a book series) * 2 were non-fiction (1 book of essays, 1 true crime) * 10 were books of short fiction * 83 were installments of various series, of which 13 were YA, 17 were graphic novels, * I read 13 new authors, accounting for 37 of books read * there are 47 unique authors represented   I am rediculously pleased that I read way more than my 100 book goal - I want to read more of substance next year, though.
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