24. Ok, so we've covered pumpkin. How do you feel about the other fall classic – apples?

I love bpal apple scents, but I’m otherwise kind of meh on apples. They’re ok, but I prefer almost any other fruit. That said, if you have some kind of delicious apple something that you think I must try, by all means send it. ETA: despite my opinion of apples, I love apple sauce.

25. Do you have any fabric or skin-contact aversions?

Nothing serious. Wool can be very itchy, but I think that’s true for almost everyone. I tend towards more natural fibers, but I’m not actively opposed to synthetics.

26. How do you feel about Christmas/Yule ornaments?

Not really into them, but I do enjoy twinkle lights. Also, lately I’ve been liking the idea of natural wreaths/garlands. I can never find any that aren’t a billion dollars.

27. How do you feel about Hello Kitty, and Hello Kitty accessories (including mugs, cups, etc)?

Nope, most cute shit is lost on me unless you plan to send me a puppy.

28. If you had a week free where you could learn anything, with no financial restrictions, what would you want to study?

Uh, everything? The big problem isn’t money, it’s time. Languages (Spanish, Italian) would top the list, then history/archaeology, then blacksmithing. I'd like to pick up at CPA at some point too (yes, I think accounting is interesting). I would love going back to college just for the classes. I don’t miss the rest of college but going to learn something new every day was awesome.

29. Do you enjoy poetry? Who are your favorite poets and what type of subject matter do you like?

I do, but I think poetry is meant to be performed. Reading poetry can get dull. Listening to it is awesome.

30. Would you enjoy receiving something related to a favorite Disney character?

I wouldn’t be opposed, but I don’t know that I really have a favorite character. I like the girl squirrel in Sword In The Stone

31. How do you feel about cute things as decorations or accessories? (Example: Would you enjoy this stationery - or do you prefer elegant/creepy/neutral stuff?)

Nope, no, not of interest. Do not like cute things. Elegant, eclectic, natural, dark, bright – all ok. Cute = evil.

32. What is something you'd really like to recieve from your witch? Please be as specific as possible - no, "Oh whatever she thinks is fine!"

Something that reflects one of your own interests. I love it when people send me things that they sincerely love and want to share with me because they think I might love those things too.

 

Good night, this is a lot of questions. My eyes are blurring...

 

33. Go to your music source of choice - on random or shuffle setting if possible - & share with us the 10 most recent songs/artists.

 

From my Slacker stations. I just put down songs that caught my ear. The first six were of the badass lady variety, so I decided to continue the theme:

1. Red Hand - Screaming Females

2. Only Happy When It Rains - Garbage

*3. Parlez-Nous a Boire - Beausoleil

4. Walkin' After Midnight - Patsy Cline

5. I'd Rather Go Blind - Etta James

6. No More Trouble - Erykah Badu

7. This One's From the Heart - Tom Waits (w/Crystal Gayle)

8. Jolene - Dolly Parton

9. Lonely Anywhere - The Everybodyfields

10. Gracias a la Vida - Mercedes Sosa

 

34. Tarot cards, rune stones and/or other divination tools yay or nay?

Nope, see above about not tempting fate by thinking I know the future

 

35. Do you have a Celeb crush? or someone who you just can't get enough of....other than your SO

Meh. I mean, there are definitely folks I find attractive (Angelina Jolie) or appreciate for being awesome even if they’re not my physical type (Jennifer Lawrence) or both (Gina Torres, wowza). The dude who plays Thor is very, very easy on the eyes. Mark Ruffalo also does it for me. He’s my physical type (although, with an uncomfortable dash of reminding me of my dad, which is creepy). That said, I’m not much of a celebrity crusher. I appreciate the eye candy or the goofy adorability, but I don’t get full on lust. If I were to sleep with a random celebrity, it would most likely be a musician I adore. Tom Waits isn’t especially pretty, but I think my (straight) husband and I would jump in bed with him in a minute.

 

36. Glitter? are you okay with it, or hate it like the plague?

I don’t despise it, but I also don’t go gaga for it. It can be fun.

 

37. If there was another time period other than now that described your style/aesthetics, what would it be?

Clothing wise, I think I’m good in the present or recent past where a woman can live in jeans all the time. House style wise, the Edwardian era or the 1930s.

 

38. If you had to pick one or two quotes to live by, what would it be and why?

I hate this question. It happens nearly every swap and every time I’m stumped. I’m an avid reader, I love words, but picking out quotes just paralyzes me.

 

39. Do you prefer physical books? CD books? eBooks? If eBooks do you have preferred format, kindle/nook/kobo/PDF/ePub/ect? eAudio?

Physical books, digital everything else. Books are how I escape from my computer/smart phone where I spend the rest of my time.

40. Smut! Yes or no? If yes, what kink, er, kind?

Absolutely. As far as specific kinks go, I’m a fan of BDSM and spanking stuff – female sub preferred but not necessary. Since it’s semi-related, I am a fan of Meilin’s Intimate History series, so, despite my general distaste for ebooks, I would make an exception for her work.

 

41. Ebooks! Yes or no? Nope

Nope, see above

 

42. If you were to get a custom bottle from House of Gloi made for you what notes would create your perfect blend?

Uh, maybe Chocolate, Cardamom, and Woodsmoke. Maybe.

43. If your witch were to take a photograph (or paint or whatever) of something just for you, what would it be? Landscape? Flower? Critter? Something to illustrate a favorite quote?

Landscapes are awesome. I like moody portraits. I’m a sucker for dogs.

 

44. What is your favorite Halloween animal or other symbol/decoration?

Halloween doesn’t do much for me. The rest of my family hated it when I was younger, and I’m too introverted to really get into it. I used to love handing out candy and seeing kids get excited, but, other than that, it doesn’t do much for me. My father-in-law is adorably into it and my hubby can get in to the act too when they’re together, but my mother-in-law died a few days before last Halloween. That’s sort of killed the festivities on that side of the family too. Hubby and I are Addams Family fans, so I can imagine some fun stuff in that vein showing up around this time of year.

 

45. Makeup, especially of the indie variety. Nail polish, nail wraps, eyeshadow, lipstick/gloss, etc. Y/N? Specific preferences (color, finish, product, brand, etc.)?

The only thing in the makeup realm that I actually want right now is matte nail polish.

46. How do you feel about profanity and off-color humor?

I’m just fine with it if it’s executed well. I don’t appreciate potty humor or racism/sexism/cruelty with humor window dressing, but I’m not bothered by cursing and I love dark humor.

 

47. I make hairsticks...would you like/use them?

Sure!

 

48. Does anyone here LARP? If so, what kind of LARP? And what kind of character do you play?

Nope

 

49. Would you completely freak out if I sent you a chocolate covered scorpion or some other food oddity? This includes things like 'bacon powder' from thinkgeek.com.

Completely freak out? No. When it comes to food oddities, you’re 50/50 on whether I think it’s the coolest thing ever or psych myself out before trying it. Bacon powder does not entice.

 

50. This has kind of been covered, but, are you ok with receiving canned jam (from a veteran jammer!) and if so, what flavors would you like and not like?

Yes! If you know what you’re doing, I’m pro handmade foods. I like berries. I’d be curious to try tea flavors.

 

51. Let's talk nail polish. What colors do you love? Hate? Which brands are you dying to try? Have you ever used indies? Do you like glitter? Any textures to avoid (glitter, sand, etc)?

I’ve got a sizeable collection of Zoya plus a handful of Julep and Nfu Oh. Mostly red, purple, blue, and silvers.

 

52. How do you feel about getting a special Halloween plushie?

I’d probably think it was adorable and then not know quite what to do with it. For someone who hates knick knacks and isn’t in to Halloween, I’m surprisingly not opposed to the idea.

53. I'm in Japan, anything specific you might want from the land of the rising sun?

Translation/identification services. I inherited a mystery bottle of something (fish sauce? Liquor?) from Japan when my little brother died in 2012. The entire label is in Japanese. I would love to know what it is and whether there’s any chance it’s still good two+ years later.

 

54. Are there any GC scents that you know you love, but for whatever reason, keep putting off buying bottles of?

Not that I can think of.

 

55. I know not everyone likes Lush products, but if you do, which Lush items would you like to get from your Witch?

I’m pretty stocked up on Lush and I work with someone who also has a part time job there. If buying Lush is a big part of your plan, I’ve been planning to pick up shampoo bars. I stopped using them because of the SLS, but TSA has me looking for solid everything and I’ve never had good luck with other brands. New is a favorite. Also Jungle.

 

56. Is there anywhere (in the US) that you are dying to get away to? Also when would you be able to get away. Would this even be something you were interested in? If so, go look at the Southwest sale for routes and dates and times.

Heh, what an awesome idea. I’d like to go visit my mom in Florida – Orlando, Tampa, and Jacksonville airports are all close to her. 10/16 – 10/19 works for me, but I don’t know if it works for her. If not, I have a friend who lives nearby. I would also like to go to Savannah sometime. Haven’t been since I was a teenager, and I remember liking it.

57. If you are ok with receiving t-shirts, what size are you, do you prefer tissue tees, normal crew tees, babydoll etc?

I don’t wear a lot of t-shirts, but I am sorely lacking in lounge wear, so I guess I could use a handful. Tissue tees with v or scoop necks are preferred. XL is probably the best bet. For really fitted stuff, I’m happy to give you my measurements.

58. THINKGEEK! Who loves it - do you have a wishlist on there?? What are some things you are jonesing for on there for under $20?

I’m iffy on thinkgeek. I love the idea, and middle school me would have thought it was the coolest thing ever. Adult me sees a lot of stuff I don’t need probably manufactured under questionable circumstances . Still, there are definitely things on there that are pretty cool.

The plus-size women’s Meh shirt and the titanium straw are the most interesting <$20 things right now.

 

59. Zombies, yes or no?

Yes but kind of feeling burnt out on them and don’t like gross zombie art.

 

60. Would you like arm warmers/fingerless gloves? If so, what length? just beyond the wrist, almost to the elbow, full sleeves?

Sure. Almost to the elbow or just beyond the wrist are both good. I’m too petite for full sleeves.

 

61. Do you feel a particular affinity for a specific animal/s?

I obviously love dogs. I’m pretty much an ecumenical animal lover otherwise.

 

62. Anyone have any Paintbox Soapworks loves?

I’m a huge PBSW fan. Her clean slate scrub is one of my few stockpiled batch items. I also love sorbetto – Indian Summer, Guy Fawkes, Aquae Sulis, and Halcyon are all of interest. I prefer the sample size, and I don’t really do bar soap.

 

63. How would you feel if your witch or a minion of your witch showed up in person at your house with goodies? Thrilled? Annoyed? Completely creeped out?

Surprised. I’m not opposed to it, but I think I’d rather meet up at the coffee shop on the corner. Gives me a chance to get out of the house (I work from home)

 

64. Do you have a ravelry account? Tell me about your yarn obsessions.

Nope

 

65. Sock Dreams, yay or nay?

Yay. They’re a great company, but I’m pretty stocked up on stockings at the moment.

 

66. Knitted items like scarves, shawls, dishclothes....yay or nay? Favorite fibers? Favorite colors?

Sure. I think the fabric/color/want questions have all been answered. Do keep in mind that I live in the deep south, really heavy winter gear will get limited use.

67. Is your Amazon WL up-to-date?

I don’t have one. On the subject, Amazon gift cards are a regular perk at work and therefore not a big draw for me. If you’re looking for random wishes that aren’t to be found on etsy or in my various questionnaires, I can add that list here:

1. Drawstring pajama pants

2. A sleeveless night gown

3. A massage, there’s a Woodhouse near me which does online gift cards

4. Pilates classes, I go to NOLA Pilates

5. Pillows that don’t suck

6. Throw pillows for my couch that don’t suck

That’s pretty much all I can think of in the realm of completely random yet buyable wishes.

 

68. If you were to receive handmade caramels, would it matter if they were made with raw cream (unpasteurized)?

Nope, as long as you know/trust the dairy.

 

69. Would you enjoy getting a sampling of quality incense taken from various sources? Are there types of incense you know you don't like? Would you want a burner for loose incense and a few charcoals to get you started with that, or would you rather stick to simpler types?

No thanks

 

70. I know we already had a question about needed kitchen accessories, but what about spices?

YUM!!! Cumin, Za’atar, Ras al Hanout, and other spices or blends of that nature would be wonderful.

 

71. Would you like handmade stationary or cards? How about a quill pen?

I might enjoy small quantities. I think that kind of stuff is very pretty, but it doesn’t get much use in my house.

 

72. On a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being "gimme that ghost pepper!" and 1 being "oh, that's a bit too much black pepper for me" Where is your heat tolerance?

3 or 8 depending on the day

 

73. What is your favorite type of Halloween candy?

For all my hippy food tendencies, I still have a weakness for the mini-Reese’s. My hubby is a fan of Dots, and I usually steal a few while he’s munching.

 

74. Do you need or want any cosy footwear, like fluffy slippers, or slipper socks etc?

No thanks, I hate having things on my feet. I just found out that my Pilates studio is going to start requiring socks on the machines, and I am devastated.

 

75. What do you most look forward to each Fall?

I don’t. Fall and Winter suck. I used to enjoy Thanksgiving because it was my mom’s favorite holiday, but she can’t handle it anymore now that my brother is gone and it’s sad without her. Fall is just generally depressing for me, and Winter is even worse. I can’t wait for them to be past! On the plus side, the Weenies are always a good update for me.

 

76. What gadgets do you use in your everyday life and would you like a cool case for them - with your favourite fandom or artwork or saying?

I actually already have a case for my phone that I really love, so I’m good here.

77. Are there any beauty accessories you need or would like? For example make-up brushes, facial brushes or eyelash curlers.

Hmm, someone mentioned wand caps for BPAL. I could use a handful of those. Otherwise, the only thing I can think of is a beauty accessory for my dog – a soft brush that straps on your hand. I guess I’m not much for beauty implements, sorry L

 

78. Would you be disappointed to get one big box, or would you prefer a bunch of little ones? And would you be disappointed if your witch actually had it together early and sent it to you sooner than later?

Whichever you prefer J

79. Stores are putting out their halloween PJs and undies! Would you be happy to get any in a package? And if so, what size? For PJ pants, do you like cotton or flannel?

No undies, please. Drawstring PJ pants would be nice if you can find big comfy ones.

80. Do you like M&Ms?

I’m pretty indifferent to them, but my hubby loves them.

81. How about wax melts?

No thanks

82. Would you like a subscription for Spotify?

I don’t do Spotify. I do have a Slacker Plus subscription. They have a Premium option for about $5 more per month. It’s not something I would expect from a swap like this, but I certainly use the site enough.

83. What scents from the Lillith update would you like to try?

Avunculus, Goofballs, and Blueberry Picking sound interesting, but I probably won’t bother with decants because they’re a bit on the floral side which can be hit or miss for me.

84. Would you be interested in receiving a box of sugar cube skulls?

No, no skulls

85. Skin care routine? Fave cleanser? Toner? Moisturizer? What about body lotions? Any particular brand or scent? Lip balms? Yay or nay?

PBSW Clean Slate cleanser, Wild Root’s Witch Hazel Hydrosol as a toner and for extra cleansing on sweaty days, and a simple, handmade moisturizer that I only use during winter. I also have a facial serum, but, after much experimentation, I don’t really see what all the fuss is about. I don’t bother with body lotion. I could use a nice body powder, though. Regular lip balm is a no because I have SO MUCH, but, if you’ve got a favorite for hard core moisturizing without that rebound dryness that so many of the intense ones cause, I’m definitely interested..

86. Is there anything you would like from Salem MA (mugs, keychains, postcards, etc.or witchy supplies like incense, candles, books)?

Nothing in particular, but I’m not opposed if you see something you think I’d like.

 

87. Would you be interested in any of the items in LisaNut's etsy shop?

I favorited items from forumite etsy stores at the beginning of the round. Some of Lisa’s stuff is quite pretty, but they are mostly the wrong colors for me.

88. Spiders (as in cute knit kind) yes or no?

Not on my list, but no objection.

89. Pillows (the mostly decorative type)?

You already know that I’m looking for throw pillows! Crocheted, black leather, and red or grey velvet are all of interest.

 

90. Any kind of bags - big, small, medium, purse, grocery, etc?

We’re pretty stocked up.

91. Is there anything special coming up in your life?

Nothing in particular.

 

92. Which one scent would you want from each of the following updates: Metamorphosis, Lilith and GC?

93. Are you interested in anything from NYCC?

 

That apple hair gloss sounds lovely, and Dew Drop Inn would be awesome if it were a perfume. Otherwise, I’m a comic and book fan, so I’m sure there would be some things that fit my previously mentioned interests.

94. Would something from the Tokyo Game Show (e.g. postcards, fans) possibly interest you?

 

No thanks

 

95. Would you enjoy any of these couple rings? Or anything from the same store's Halloween collection?

Hubby would probably love it if we ended up with any of the Cara Mia/Mon Cher stuff, but I can’t imagine actually wearing it.

96. If you imbibe at all ... preference between: wine/beer/cocktails and then glassware and/or bar-ware? cocktail gadgetry? Books on the subject/recipes? would you want sample bottles of local/regional/small batch craft spirits if they were home decanted and labeled?

 

Goodness that’s a complex question. I’ve already told you about my booze preferences and sent you a picture of my crazily stocked bar. Local/regional stuff is always welcome and the only glassware I’m missing are zombie glasses.

97. Would you like some chai, lemon, rose water or other flavored sugar cubes?

Heh, this is going to sound ridiculous, but I actually have too many sugar cubes right now. I love to try homemade creations, but please keep it small.

98. Jamberry nail wraps?

Too much work since I don’t own a hair dryer

99. If you had to choose one currently available book (used-but-obtainable counts if you do used) costing $20 or under for your Witch to buy for you, what would it be?

Night Watch – Terry Pratchett

100. Are there five things under $25 at Birchbox you would like?

https://www.birchbox.com/shop/featured/25-and-under-1/one-love-organics-cleansing-sponge

https://www.birchbox.com/shop/featured/25-and-under-1/clarisea-instant-glow-powder-exfoliant-face or https://www.birchbox.com/shop/featured/25-and-under-1/clarisea-rapid-detox-charcoal-exfoliant-face

https://www.birchbox.com/men/featured/25-and-under/quirky-wrapster

https://www.birchbox.com/men/featured/25-and-under/ursa-major-essential-face-wipes

https://www.birchbox.com/men/featured/25-and-under/herban-essentials-towelettes

101. Do you want anything from the Fatherhood update at the Post?

Morning in New Orleans sounds amazing

102. Street art! Into it? Not into it? Meh?

Yes, when it’s good. My dad’s twin brother was a muralist

103. If you could only pick one note that you love (e.g. Vanilla, Orange, Lavender, Rose) & you could only wear/have perfume, etc in that note, what would it be?

Hmm, chocolate is my favorite but it’s better with other things mixed in. So, for a single note to wear all year long, probably cinnamon