ellebelle

Wishlist help! BPAL: http://www.bpal.org/topic/127-wishlist/page__st__1900__p__1566904?do=findComment&comment=1566904 AMAZON: http://www.amazon.com/gp/registry/wishlist/1OASHS9ZEEHNF/ref=cm_sw_su_w ETSY: http://www.etsy.com/people/effluere/favorites THINKGEEK: search my name and email address as listed in the questionnaire. I have one! Pumpkin? I am not a fan of the pumpkin in scents, I'm sorry to say. I like things like pumpkin muffins and cookies, etc, but only very rarely like it in perfumes. Marshmallow Pumpkin and White Pumpkin Extrait are the only two perfumes that come to mind that I've liked that have pumpkin in it. I'm ambivalent about pumpkin in candles and room sprays, but again it is not my favorite. If there is something that you LOVE, dear witch, that has pumpkin in it, I'm happy to give it a try - but maybe a sample. Booze? I <3 all the booze! beer: I live in Grand Rapids, which is quite the beer city. I'm fond of pretty much all dark beers, and Belgian style beers (Saisons, farmhouse, dunkels, etc). I'm not too fond of Hefes (sometimes I like them, sometimes I don't), and I hate IPAs. If anyone is on untappd, you can find me there with ALL the beer check ins. I loves it. wine: I love wine too! My favorites are heavy reds, like cabs. I typically don't like weak reds (like pinot noir), or reds that are particularly tannic (like shiraz). For whites, I prefer dry/tart whites, particularly oaked chardonnays, and dryer reislings. I do not typically like the typically grassy/sweetish whites like pinot grigio or sauvingon blanc. I do like dessert wines a lot though, and pretty much anything sparkly. cider: I like dry cider. I do not like woodchuck and the like, but pretty much everything else is fine. I also love trying other kinds of fruit wines/ciders. mead: Om nom nom. Sweet or dry, I like it all. If something is too sweet, I just cut it with something dry and sparkling and make an alcoholic mead spritzer. If you haven't tried this, you should! spirits: I love craft spirits, so if there is something local, I'd love to try it. I'm particular to bourbon, gin, and tequila, but I'll try anything. I love a good cocktail - and good cocktail means that I like my booze mixed with booze and maybe a squeeze of citrus, not with lots of sugary stuff. Want anything from Yellowstone? Be it postcards, key chains, shot glasses, pint glasses, or huckleberry what have you? I was just there, so I'm good. If there is something you think I might like, I'm all for it. I know there is a question about "decorating style", but if you're comfortable, could you should us some photos of your spaces? For those of us who like to art and craft, it can be nice to have a visual sense of decorating style! To be added - I need to photograph my space better. Are you a fan of the TV show Penny Dreadful? I've never watched it. What are your coffee and tea preferences? Do you prefer one, the other, both, or neither (and if it's neither, what about things like hot cider and cocoa)? Loose leaf or bags, whole bean or ground? Is caffeine OK? Any gadgetry you're in need of? Any brands or flavors that you particularly love, loathe, or want to try? I'm not a tea drinker, and the tea will go to waste. I love coffee, I drink it all day every day. I prefer beans, but ground is fine (I have a burr grinder). I'm not huge on flavored coffee, but if there is something you think I might like, I will try it! What's your sense of humor like? Do you enjoy puns? Play on words? Dirty humor? Dry humor? Who are some of your favorite comedians? I like smart humor and satire best of all. I'm not really big on slapstick humor. I love Jon Stewart - I once saw him do stand up, and he was amazing. I also loved the Daily Show. I find John Oliver to be very funny as well. Once when I was traveling for work, I accidentally erased my entire music collection at the beginning of a long trip. Someone else who was there gave me his whole collection so I'd have something to listen to, and he had a Bill Hicks compilation and that is possibly the funniest things I've ever listened to. Dear future witch, if you are one that is not offended by humor that is full of swear words, or humor that mocks people who are rigidly religious, you should listen to some of the clips. Do you like board games? If so, which ones? Traditional or more unique? (like Settlers of Catan, Small World, Red Dragon Inn, etc) I do like board games, but I rarely play them what with not having children or (more recently) an S.O. When I have friends over, we like Cards Against Humanity a lot, and I don't have my own set. I also like word games, like scrabble, or taboo, or scattergories, or things like that. Is there anything that you specifically do NOT want to receive? I have enough bar soap to last me for years so no bar soap unless it is special (like, you made it yourself). I don't take bubble baths, so all bubble bath, bath bombs, etc are lost on me. I love shower gels though. Plain or fun socks? Either is good. Name one (or as many as you would like) thing you would like to learn more about? I would love to learn more about tarot, as something meditative. That's the first thing that comes to mind. What one thing you would like to do more of? Exercising. I've gotten way out of the habit, and I need to have something fun and engaging that will make me want to go. Question!: Is there any particular piece (or pieces) of art (painting, photograph, etc) that speaks to you in some way? My answer: In general, I love art. My house is filled with it - I have a lot of vintage polish posters that I've gotten here there and everywhere. When I get around to photographing my house, I'll point them out. I also have a lot of art that I've collected on my various travels to different places. But I would say that the one piece of art that I've run across that really spoke to me in the last few years is this portrait called "2 am" by Juan Naranjo Torres. ] It's part of the permanent collection at the European Museum of Modern Art gallery in Barcelona. I have a little postcard framed with it that I got last time I was there, but I wish I could buy a giant print and frame it for my house because I love it so much. Would you like any cookie butter (just to be clear, store-bought, not home-made, and does contain wheat since it's, y'know, cookie butter)? Sure, I would try it. I think maybe I have tried this once before - one of the trader joes kind. What kinds of things would you like from the Lilith BPAL or BPTP update (or are you joining a decant circle?) I bought my decants, so I am good. Do you want to received knit or crocheted items? If so, could you describe or even link to a couple of items similar to what you would like to receive? I love receiving handmade gifts. For knitted things, hats and fingerless gloves would be most welcome. I love scarves too but I have a lot of them. That being said, I live in the arctic tundra of Michigan, so more scarves could never be a bad thing. Handmade vs store-bought: Whatever is easiest/best for my witch. I have zero preferences in this regard. SPICY????!!!!: Bring it on. Bring it. I like things easily up to an 8, perhaps 9-10 in small doses. What thing do you want to do (or get) but you keep putting off for one reason or another? Well, if you look at my amazon list, you'll see a lot of kitchen things and tools. My boyfriend (of 6.5 years) and I split about a month ago and I'm still replacing a lot of small things that were his. Cookie sheets, basket strainers, tongs, etc etc. I need it all again, but buying it feels so ugh. Would you like anything from Lush? I love the ocean spray face scrub, and the happy hippie body wash. But, there are other scrubbies and body washes that are cheaper that I like just as well. No bath bombs for me, please - I don't really do the bubbly baths. Or baths period. I'm a shower girl. What is your BPAL "Holy Grail"? Oh, I have a lot of favorites - there is a post linked in my signature. My favorite of all time is probably The Girl. I have one more bottle left (SOB) Analog or Digital? Or Both? For music, I like records, CDs or mp3s. I listen to mix CDs in my car, so those would be very welcome. I collect records - I like old time jazz, blues, r&b stuff the best. For books, I prefer digital - I have a kindle. Paper is fine though, if you've got a used book that you think I might like that can't be sent electronically. For movies, I prefer physical DVDs, but if you have only a digital copy, I'm happy to receive that as well. Basically, whatever makes it easiest for you, dear witch! but, to sum up - music: either mp3s, mix CDs, or records. I don't need full physical CDS. books: Kindle is my preference, used paper books are fine. I don't need new paper books - just send it digitally. movies: I prefer physical DVDs, but if you have an efile, send it over and I'll watch it on my laptop. I just don't have any easy way to watch digital files on my television (I don't think?? I have amazon prime TV, so I suppose digital amazon gifts I could easily watch, but my preference is still for the physical discs. What scents from other perfume companies are you really wanting to have in your collection and or are just really wanting to test? Companies like NAVA, Arcana, Solstice Scents, Possets, Haus of Gloi etc.....? I have other companies in my wishlist. Kitchen Needs or Wants: Do you need (or want) anything for your kitchen, either in the way of simple gadgets, supplies you always run out of, or never remember to get, kitchen decor (functional or purely decorative), or dry goods like special spices or spice blends? I have some things on my amazon wishlist, and I think I answered this above. I need lots of kitchen things. Do you have an affinity for any specific animals? Penguins! Makeup! Do you like it, would you want some? If so what brands do you like to wear? I don't wear a ton of makeup - sorry! If you're going to go this route, the things I have the greatest chance of using is nail polishes. Chocolate fiends ahoy! What kind of chocolate do you like? Do you like any other things in it or just plain good ole chocolate? Love love love love love it all! Om nom nom. dark is my favorite. Would you be opposed to receiving a ton of Halloween themed items? Not opposed at all! Would you be interested in any special little thing I might be able to pick up from the Great Lakes Bat Festival this Saturday? Both Janell Cannon (author of Stellaluna and other kids' books) and Fiona Reid (illustrator for lots of animal field guides) will be there, so would you possibly be interested in something like an autographed copy of Stellaluna or one of Cannon's or Reid's other books? Or something from the Organization for Bat Conservation, like a shirt or other swag? Decal! Love it. The tote bags are really cute as well. What items from the Weenie update interest you, should you have to option of getting anything as a gift from your Witch??? Would you be ok with decants, or bottles? I'm going to order my decants, so I'm good. What's your favorite scary movie? I like the scream franchise best of all. Blu-ray or DVD? DVD Game systems - console or computer? Mac/PC? Which console? I use a windows machine, and I have an ancient Wii that I mostly use for watching amazon prime. Are you dressing up for Halloween and if so do you need any accessories for if? I don't think so. Talk to me about bags, what kinds do you like? Sizes and styles? I'm pretty picky about purses, actually - things must have a long strap that I can wear cross body since I've basically messed up my shoulders from too many years of carrying ridiculously heavy bags. I love totes for groceries and things. What are your favorite fandoms and do you want to receive anything related to such? I'm not super fannish - mostly I'd just want seasons of tv and things. I get a little fangirl about Buffy and especially Angel and, shamefully, I might be getting a little fangirlish about the Outlander series of all things. It's totally not my thing, but OMG I love it. What's wrong with me??? What are you planning to order from the Weenies update? I already ordered my decants, so that is done dear witch. The Last Huzzah of the NY Renaissance Faire happens this weekend and I'm going! Is there anything you might want? (Besides a turkey leg, which won't ship well!) Anything you think I might like would be great. I bet there is some cool jewelry there. I've actually never been to a ren faire, so I don't know what breadth of goods there might be. Do you like comics or graphic novels? Any issues or collections you want to read? Selectively. Do you like fanfic? Would you like a story written for you as part of your gift? What characters/fandoms/pairings etc do you like? I'll read something if you write it, but I'm not really into fanfic Let's say you have indicated interest in receiving a hand knitted item. What colors, exactly, do you like? If you could provide color swatches here or to pinterest (or something visual), that would help out a lot. I like jewel tones and neutrals. Not so into pastels. Would you rather receive a bunch of little packages through the round, a couple of medium packages, or one big package at the end? Whatever my witch likes! It's up to you. Would Witchees like something from IKEA? (Or any other not always accessible by everyone store?) Nothing specific. If/when you go to the mall, for which store(s) do you beeline? I do love Sephora and Papyrus, and Crate and Barrel Do you receive any subscription boxes (julep, lootcrate, ipsy, birchbox, etc.)? I did Birchbox for a little while, but not anymore. Do you like tarts/candles/incense? If so, what type of scents? Pass - I have a lot of this already. Is there anything you wish you could have picked up from the Dragon*Con exclusives? Some of the perfumes - they are on my wishlist. Is there a GC you've been dying to try but haven't got around to yet? Not that I can think of! I want a full bottle of Gertrude Dix though - my decant is almost out. The questionnaire asked about gold & silver jewelry, but how do you feel about copper jewelry? Do you like colorful jewelry, or do you prefer to keep it neutral? Love copper color, but copper itself irritates my skin. For earrings, I actually can literally only do 14k gold, sterling silver or surgical steel due to allergies. We asked about decorating style, but are you interested in receiving decorations for your home? Are you interested in things that go on the wall or things that go on shelves? If there is something my witch find which she thinks would be awesome! Office supplies hound? Pens, pencils, journals, any preference, or favorites? I could use thin markers. Talk to me about socks! Is there anything, dear, dear Witchee, that I can get for you from Sock Dreams? Anything from another place? Love socks! No knee socks, please, but other than that anything goes. I live near a huuuuge candy store. What kind of candy do you like? Gummies? Caramel? Chocolate? Sour? Sugar-free? I have a horrible weakness for bright crawlers. How do you feel about animal products? Not so much animal toys or food, but more like furs, paws, bones, etc. Tis fine. Are you interested in receiving any restaurant.com gift certificates for your area? That would be wonderful! Cherie Inn is always good or Black Heron Kitchen and Bar, or the Birch Lodge. How do you feel about "toys" - stuffed animals and the like? This answer is in thread, but I like extinct stuffed creatures. Yes, this is very specific, but it's a thing. Did you see the eclipse last night? How do you feel about astrological events, like eclipses? Any interest in the Blood Moon Eclipse scent from BPAL? Boo, clouds. But I love astrological events and I bought the Blood Moon bootle. Witchee's, how tall are you? And perhaps, what's your arm span (from wrist to wrist)? 5'10" How do you feel about the 4 elements? Or are you more of an Asian 5 elements person? Do you feel strongly about any of the elements, like a connection or a preference? Answered this in thread too, but tl;dr I am a fire girl, followed by metal if you use the Chinese version. How do you feel about bento boxes? Is it something you would use if you were to get one? I probably wouldn't use them, but I find them to be adorable. Scarves, shawls or cowls? Mittens, gloves, fingerless mitts or wristlets? I feel like I've answered this - I like all of it. I think wristlets would be my least favorite thing on this list. Fingerless mitts and hats would be top of the list. I love cowls. I have a lot of scarved, but I live in the frozen tundra so more is fine. how do you feel about online classes? Like, say, craftsy or creativebug? Or even lynda.com? no time, not for me. What do we want from Paintbox Soapworks? All the things! If I were to make you some art, would you prefer a frame that hangs or one that sits? And what color/style would you prefer? I would love it if you made me art, dear witch! But, no pressure if the art is not strong without in (as the craft is not strong within me!). I've posted pictures of my space and I would treasure anything because it would come from you! My living room is reds, browns, and turquoises. Guest room is greys and greens. Master is pinks and blues. Office is grey, green and orange. Kitchen is turquoise and white and grey, so lots and lots of choices! How do you feel about gourmet marshmallows? om nom.

The first wet blast is ALMOND, which I find is typical of all of the scents that contain this note. It almost immediately settles down into a very ... grown up smelling perfume. I get the wisps of the florals and definitely a slight woody edge from the cedar wood into a musky floral. Alas, the final dry down is honey heavy, and the honey blends tend to smell slightly sour on my skin. Almost no wear length either. It's beautiful, so I might try it in a scent locket.

Bourbon vanilla, preserved apricot, and cardamom. APRICOTTTTT, vanilla cream and just a touch of spice. This is actually really pretty, but it is a close to the skin scent.

Very astringent on application. The grass note is definitely the strongest note here, and it has a sort of masculine scent to it.

This smells like beautiful dragon's blood resin with honey. Unfortunately, it's the bpal honey note that has the odd sour edge for me, so in the end this just smells like sour dragon's blood. Not for me.

This is ... odd. In the wet stage, there is a ton going on here, especially with the coconut and the lemongrass warring against each other. That is mostly what I smell, with a touch of ginger. But on the drydown? Slightly sweetened lemongrass.

To me, this is 100% apple. There may be something else in here taming it at the final dry down, but by that time the entire scent is so weak it's hard to smell it. Like many predominantly apple scents, my skin just eats this.

I love all of these notes, but somehow they are swirling together to smell like ... opium? Is that possible? I think this is not for me, and my nose is broken. I think the "opium"-ness is a powdery edge from the amber, which surprises me because amber is usually one of my best notes. Boo.

This is brand new in the mail and then onto my wrists. For me, this is vetiver through and through. There is a slightly sweet edge on the dry down which might be the benzoin, but I'm not sure. I don't get any mint, patchouli or any aquatic from this as all. Vetiver vetiver vetiver.

Popcorn and nuts coated in molasses, iced cocoa, freckle bread, canelés, hot green tea, cinnamon-spiced apple cider, honeyed oat muffins, and crème pâtissière. Holy foodie-riffic batman! This smells strongly of popcorn, chocolate and spices. It's a really pretty scent, but is so strong that it gives me a headache. Great throw on this.

Baskets of apples, sun warmed, sit beneath tree boughs dappled with autumn light. This is like a crisp, red delicious apple. If last years autumn harvest was warm and glowing, this is an apple orchard on a crisp fall evening. It's really pretty and makes the room smell wonderful.

1. I wonder what a potential witchee would think about being bombarded with PUMPKINS in various formats. Because my current obsession just may last long enough to be of use in spoiling.....but I know wouldn't be appreciated by everyone. Would you appreciate it?!? Pumpkin baked goods are a yes, candles and smelly things are a yes, perfume is a no. 2. I currently have a CSA and my significant other is perpetually out of town for work, so I've been doing a lot of canning and baking with my vegetables. How do people feel about canned good (pickles, salsa, etc) and vegetal baked goods (squash bread, zucchini bread). I pretty much love all homemade noms. 3. Trading Post wants? In the wish list. 4. What direct sellers do you not like and would prefer not to get things from? And also feel free to list any retail brands you really don't like. I tend to prefer smaller etsy sellers, but there is nothing that you could send that would horrify me. 5. How about y'alls coffee and tea preferences? COFFEE! Coffee coffee coffee. Coffee. I prefer whole bean, and not flavored. Teas I'm less fond of drinking; if I were going to do a tea, I'd likely do a black tea or a fruit tea. I despite green tea. Despise. 6. Do you cook? Would kitchen accessories make you happy? kitchen stuff is a win for me right now. I'm just getting ready to re-do my kitchen, so cool accessories, particularly in white, grey, yellow or aqua, would be awesome! I could use dish towels, some kind of large thing to put cook utensils in, a spoon rest and many other things I probably never knew that I wanted! I'm so excited that I made the commitment to redo the kitchen that I want to BUY ALL THE THINGS. 7. How do people feel about creative endeavours? Would you like to receive one? Or supplies to make your own? What do you like? Drawings, stories, poems? I love creative things. Whatever my witch makes me, I'm sure I'd treasure. 8. What culture or country (doesn’t have to be modern) do you feel an innate connection with? What about it makes it special to you? I've always had a fascination with norse culture. I don't know why it is so fascinating to me ... i like the pantheon, the idea of a funeral pyre, a water culture, strong women ... 9. Is there any sort of art commission you would like: cartoony, pin-up, fantasy, realistic, etc? If so, what subject would you like drawn (a picture of you, a character, a loved one or pet)? I know this is a cop out, but seriously, whatever my witch wants. I will try and get it together to post some photos of my home so that you can get a sense of my style, but I really like art in all of its forms, so if you drew me something, I am sure that I would love it. 10. What do you find yourself doing for fun in your free time? What are your main hobbies and interests? Reading and photography. And home renovation! 11. Table-top gaming? If yes, what kind, edition, etc? Gaming accessories you long for? Nope, not for me. 12. DVD movies or games that you wish would magically appear in your hands? Can they be used, through Amazon? They can be used, and I have some on my amazon.com wish list. 13. What kind of snacks or candy from other countries/states would you like to try? Tim tams! I also like Daim bars a lot, and we can only get them at Ikea around here. 14. Do you have a favorite internet meme, character or pop culture fandom? Grumpy cat! And Simon's Cat. Really, all the cats. 15. Do you have a Facebook profile (or other social media) that you are comfortable linking to aid your witch in stalking? Please note whether you are willing to add BPALers as friends. I listed a bunch of stuff in TwilightEyes' spreadsheet 16. Anybody interested in something from RCCC, whether it's con-exclusive merch or from a particularexhibitor or artist? I love Tara McPherson, so if she were there, then sure! Otherwise, there is nothing that jumps out at me. 17. How important to you is regular contact / chatter with your witch? I like to know that my witch it out there, and I really enjoy regular contact, but I don't crave constant contact. If I get a chatty witch, though, I can definitely keep up! 18. Do you like puzzles/riddles/treasure hunts and that sort of thing? I like puzzles a lot - not sure about a treasure hunt though! I love crossword puzzles and logic puzzles. 19. If you were to receive music, would you want a physical CD or digital versions? Either is good. 20. What’s a current problem/annoyance you have that could be remedied but you haven’t had time to address it? The dirty floors in my kitchen. But but but! I WILL REMEDY IT, YES I WILL. 21. How do you feel about having some sort of trinket to carry around for good luck/wishes? i.e. a small figurine, symbol, card, coin… Oh, no thank you. 22. Are you superstitious about anything? Any things you can't have in your house for that reason--bad associations? Nope, bring it all on. 23. For the vegetarians and vegans: How do you feel about things (say, marshmallows or gummy candy) made with vegan gelatin or other typically-animal-derived-but-not-in-this-instance products? Well, I am not a vegan, but I will say that sour brite crawlers are one of my seekrit loves. On road trips, I always buy them at gas station convenience stores. My BF thinks they are gross, but I say more for me! 24. Ok, so we've covered pumpkin. How do you feel about the other fall classic – apples? Noms! Love them. particularly dried apples, applesauce and applebutter. 25. Do you have any fabric or skin-contact aversions? Nope. 26. How do you feel about Christmas/Yule ornaments? I love them. I love having a Christmas tree, and I cherish ornaments that I've received as gifts. 27. How do you feel about Hello Kitty, and Hello Kitty accessories (including mugs, cups, etc)? Oh, no thank you. 28. If you had a week free where you could learn anything, with no financial restrictions, what would you want to study? Spanish. 29. Do you enjoy poetry? Who are your favorite poets and what type of subject matter do you like? To some extent? I like certain poems here and there, but I wouldn't just pick up a poetry book to read cover to cover. 30. Would you enjoy receiving something related to a favorite Disney character? My favorite disney movie is the Jungle Book, but anything for display would need to be more adult in character. 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?) I do have a deep and abiding love of office supplies. Post its, pens, thumbtacks, little pads of paper, all of it. I'm not specifically into anime, but I do like bright colored, fun kinds of things. No need to be neutral. 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!" Whatever she thinks is fine! Hee, I'm funny. But in all seriousness, I just like to get things that indicate that some thought was put into the gift. It doesn't have to be handmade if you're not into the craft, it's just nice when my witch takes the time to get to know me and then pick out just the right things. 33. Go to your music source of choice - on random or shuffle setting if possible - & share with us the 10 most recent songs/artists. 1. So American - Portgual. The Man. 2. Best I Ever Had - Gavin De Graw 3. Shake it Out - Florence and the Machine 4. Hip Hop Kids - Portgual. The Man. 5. Say Something - A Great Big World featuring Christina Aguilera 6. I Won't Grow Up - Audra Mae 7. Better Man - James Morrison 8. Stompa - Serena Ryder 9. Too Close - Alex Clare 10. When I was Your Man - Bruno Mars 34. Tarot cards, rune stones and/or other divination tools yay or nay? Nay for me. Some of the tarot decks are beautiful, but I don't know how to read and I don't know how much use they would get. 35. Do you have a Celeb crush? or someone who you just can't get enough of....other than your SO Jon Stewart! I <3 him. 36. Glitter? are you okay with it, or hate it like the plague? Ooh, maybe no thanks. 37. If there was another time period other than now that described your style/aesthetics, what would it be? Some weird combination of the 1960s midcentury modern stuff and 1920s arts and crafts. 38. If you had to pick one or two quotes to live by, what would it be and why? I never had problems with my fellow scientists. Scientists are a friendly, atheistic, hard-working, beer-drinking lot whose minds are preoccupied with sex, chess and baseball when they are not preoccupied with science. - Yann Martel, Life of Pi But honestly, I love quotes! For a while, I kept track of them in a now rarely updated livejournal. http://la_boheme_.livejournal.com/ 39. Do you prefer physical books? CD books? eBooks? If eBooks do you have preferred format, kindle/nook/kobo/PDF/ePub/ect? eAudio? I prefer ebooks, and I prefer for the kindle. 40. Smut! Yes or no? If yes, what kink, er, kind? Hmm... probably no thanks. 41. Ebooks! Yes or no? Emphatic yes! 42. If you were to get a custom bottle from House of Gloi made for you what notes would create your perfect blend? Hmmm... carnation, white amber, fig and vanilla bean. 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? Any of those are fine. I treasure the art that I've gotten from swaps. I like things in bold colors. 44. What is your favorite Halloween animal or other symbol/decoration? Black cats and bats! 45. Makeup, especially of the indie variety. Nail polish, nail wraps, eyeshadow, lipstick/gloss, etc. Y/N? Specific preferences (color, finish, product, brand, etc.)? I don't wear a ton of makeup, but I do like getting it. Nail polish, I'm wide open. I probably won't ever nail wraps. I prefer neutral shades and richer tones for eye shadows - plums, dark greens, browns, blacks. I prefer lip gloss to lip stick, and I hate it when it is too sticky. I actually like the Sephora brand lip gloss a lot. 46. How do you feel about profanity and off-color humor? Bring it! 47. I make hairsticks...would you like/use them? Maybe. My hair is very fine and doesn't like to stay up. I would try to use them! 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. Maybe no bugs, but other oddities are a-ok! 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, I would love that! Any kind of fruit jam is good, I'm not super picky. Pretty much the only things I WON'T eat are canned tuna fish and raw tomatoes. 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)? Anything is awesome! I do like nail polish, and I've gotten some cool indies in swaps before that I like very much. I'll wear all kinds of crazy colors on my feet, although for my hands I try to stay more neutral and less glittery. 52. How do you feel about getting a special Halloween plushie? Sure! 53. I'm in Japan, anything specific you might want from the land of the rising sun? I love origami paper and rice candies. 54. Are there any GC scents that you know you love, but for whatever reason, keep putting off buying bottles of? That's on my wishlist, but off the top of my head, Swank is the one that comes to mind. 55. I know not everyone likes Lush products, but if you do, which Lush items would you like to get from your Witch? I love the Lush Ocean Spray, but it's very spendy. I do not need bar soap, bath bombs or moisturizers. I do love shower gels, scrubs (body/face), and various body "mists". 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. My schedule is such that travel is hard except at summer. What a lovely thought, though! 57. If you are ok with receiving t-shirts, what size are you, do you prefer tissue tees, normal crew tees, babydoll etc? T-shirts are good, I'm usually an XXL girly in any internet brand, or a unisex Large (if there is a men's slim fit option). If there are only men's t-shirts, I'll pass as my boobs are big so men's t-shirts end up looking like a tent on me. 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 think I have a wishlist, but I'll have to scurry of and update it! 59. Zombies, yes or no? Sure, why not? 60. Would you like arm warmers/fingerless gloves? If so, what length? just beyond the wrist, almost to the elbow, full sleeves? Always, and I love ones that go out over the elbow. 61. Do you feel a particular affinity for a specific animal/s? Penguins and giraffes and chickens! 62. Anyone have any Paintbox Soapworks loves? YES Queen of the Damned. But I love all of her scrubs! 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? That's cool! 64. Do you have a ravelry account? Tell me about your yarn obsessions. Not a yarnie. 65. Sock Dreams, yay or nay? YAY!!! Sockdreams is love. 66. Knitted items like scarves, shawls, dishclothes....yay or nay? Favorite fibers? Favorite colors? Yay! I leave it up to you as far as fibers, and I think I've answered the color question numerous times. 67. Is your Amazon WL up-to-date? Yep. 68. If you were to receive handmade caramels, would it matter if they were made with raw cream (unpasteurized)? Nope! 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? I don't know that I would ever use it. I do like candles though! 70. I know we already had a question about needed kitchen accessories, but what about spices? Sure! I like different kinds of cocoas and sugars, I also like some of the hand mixed blends for curries and tagines. everything else I pretty much have. 71. Would you like handmade stationary or cards? How about a quill pen? That would be lovely 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? 8. I love me some heat. 73. What is your favorite type of Halloween candy? I pretty much like anything chocolate. I love mini kit kats. 74. Do you need or want any cosy footwear, like fluffy slippers, or slipper socks etc? Sure! My feets get very cold in the Michigan winters. 75. What do you most look forward to each Fall? The leaves changing. 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 have an Iphone 5, but I don't think I need any cases right now unless my witch found something super awesome that I can't live without. If so, i could trade my free slim armor case for a witchy upgrade. 77. Are there any beauty accessories you need or would like? For example make-up brushes, facial brushes or eyelash curlers. I honestly can't think of anything right now, but that doesn't mean there isn't something! Maybe some kind of box to keep it organized in my cupboard? 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? Whatever my witch wants! 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? Sure! I'm usually an XXL. 80. Do you like M&Ms? noms. 81. How about wax melts? I don't have a tart burner. 82. Would you like a subscription for Spotify? I have never used it, but maybe I'd like it? I'm not sure. 83. What scents from the Lillith update would you like to try? So many! But I probably won't be able to resist a decant circle. Not So Penitent Mini Magdalene, Avunculus, Ghost Houses, Hearts for Ghost Friends, Goofballs, Mermaid, and Venustas. 84. Would you be interested in receiving a box of sugar cube skulls? Sure! 85. Skin care routine? Fave cleanser? Toner? Moisturizer? What about body lotions? Any particular brand or scent? Lip balms? Yay or nay? I don't use lip balms much, if at all. I mostly use Fresh facial cleaser and moisturizer, which is very very very spendy and I would never expect my witch to indulge me that way. Better to indulge my body cleansing needs! 86. Is there anything you would like from Salem MA (mugs, keychains, postcards, etc.or witchy supplies like incense, candles, books)? Nothing specific comes to mind, but if my witch sees something that seems good for me, then go for it! I do like fridge magnets and awful lot. 87. Would you be interested in any of the items in LisaNut's etsy shop? I like knitted things in general. 88. Spiders (as in cute knit kind) yes or no? Sure! 89. Pillows (the mostly decorative type)? Sure again! I could use some for my guest bedroom (grass green, grey, red) or my living rooms (shades of brown, black, turquoise and red) 90. Any kind of bags - big, small, medium, purse, grocery, etc? Any and all! I love bags. Grocery bags would be especially awesome. 91. Is there anything special coming up in your life? Not that I can think of... 92. Which one scent would you want from each of the following updates: Metamorphosis, Lilith and GC? I haven't gotten my Metamorphosis decants yet, so I don't know! And I didn't even order Lilith decants. GC would be Swank. 93. Are you interested in anything from NYCC? The BPALz! 94. Would something from the Tokyo Game Show (e.g. postcards, fans) possibly interest you? I do not know what this is. 95. Would you enjoy any of these couple rings? Or anything from the same store's Halloween collection? Hmm. No linky anymore. 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? I do imbibe. I love beer, wine and liquor. I do not like sweet cocktails - I like my liquor mixed with liquor. Books are good, especially classic cocktail books, although I have a bunch of those already. Regional spirits would be super awesome. Glassware is always fun, but I think I have pretty much every cocktail gadget. I do collect vintage barware, so if you found something cool at a thrift shop, bring it on! 97. Would you like some chai, lemon, rose water or other flavored sugar cubes? Hmm. Maybe not. 98. Jamberry nail wraps? No thank you. 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? The new David Mitchell book! The Bone Clocks.

HARVEST FESTIVAL Hay bales, roaring bonfires, corn stalks, and spiced cider. This is the most glorious, sweetest, wonderful apple cider/autumnal scent. Its a little potpourri like, but with a sweeter edge. It smells mostly like cider to me, so people afraid of the smoke aspect, do not worry. This would be perfect on a cool, rainy day to make it smell warm and cozy inside!

Olive blossom, cardamom pod, amber, morning star lily, bergamot, and a well-aimed snowball. Wow, I can't believe I'm the first to review. in the bottle: A very light floral fragrance. I get the same gentle floral from Tabella (the olive blossom, I assume) a bit of bergamot, and a faint whiff of snow. wet: VERY much like the bottle scent. Light floral, bergamot and (because I know what I'm looking for) the snow note. The snow is really manifested as an extremely light mint-ish note at the end. It is but a far distant cousin of Snow, Glass, Apples or the various Yule snow scents. dry down: On the dry down, this becomes a more well rounded scent. There is a little powdery-ness, which I assume is the amber. The bergamot backs off a bit. Cardamom pod must be a different smell than cardamom, because I never get a particularly spicy scent from this. The lily is never particularly noticeable for me - I think it's blending in with the bergamot and snow rather than being a brighter stand out like it can be in some scents. verdict?: We shall see. For now, it's a keeper. It's definitely in the same scent family as Aizen-Myoo. If you like that, this scent is probably worth a try. eta: I am liking this more and more. It is different from the other scents in my collection in a good way. It doesn't feel like a duplicate of anything.

Thick flowers (but not all the jasmine-y on me) - maybe honeysuckle or magnolia?, some greenery (perhaps moss or balsam? but not grass or sap) and a hint of lemon. I like this better than the released version which caused me to violently scrub my skin. It is not an unpleasant scent, but it is slightly medicinal to my nose. The drydown is almost all heady floral. I think this might be magnolia as it reminds me a bit of Josie.

This scent is stunning. I am not a HUGE dragon's blood lover, but something told me to take a chance on this and I am so glad that I did! The wet stage (on me) is dragon's blood with a GIANT HEAP of lemon. I'm not a lemon lover, so I was concerned - but I shouldn't have been! As it dries, the lemon fades into a general sugared tea kind of scent which mixes beautifully with the dragons blood. Definitely a keeper as I've got nothing like this in my collection. <3

Woodsy, frankinscens-y peach. This is truly a resinous/incense blend - the only hint of peach I get is the sweetness in there. Pretty, but the ho wood is giving me a slight pencil shavings vibe. The jury is out!

Love this - it has a boozy peach feeling as others have noted - like peach schnapps, but without the cloying-ness of some of the "booze scents". I agree that I smell everything in its turn - first peach + red musk, then the tobacco and the sweetness from the tonka, but in the end, it's a gorgeous, rounded, grown up peach. Love!

This reminds me of a more effervescent Peach Champagne. Yum!

Wet, this is all black musk, opium and opoponax. In fact, in the very beginning, it's almost acrid smelling and then it mellows to being just smoky. Then, I don't know what happens, but it's magic time. The musks back off a lot and the vanilla comes out to play, grounding this scent and making it beautiful. I have to assume that aging will only make it better. Gorgeous!

My dear witch - new entries will be added daily (I hope??) at least while I have good access to the interwebs. Friday July 5/13 Anything from Villainess that strikes your fancy, either from their update or from the GC? Not especially. Thursday July 4/13 If I wanted to include something for your fluffball, what would be good, and what should I stay away from? little furry mice, catnip, they like cat treats as well. Nothing really to stay away from particularly. Would homemade treats be something you'd like for your dog/cat? Sure - I don't know if they cats would eat them, but we could try. If you get a long weekend this weekend... what are you doing with it? Staying in? Going out? Family? Friends? If you don't get a long weekend, are you OK with that, or a little sad? (If you are Canadian, apply this to last weekend). The manbeast and I went hiking in one of the dune parks. It was nice! Would you be interested in getting a kombucha starter and instructions on how to use it to easily make your own fermented, probiotic tea drink? No thanks. Wednesday July 3/13 Anything interesting from the new Paintbox Soapworks update for you? I like the Sorbettos in general and always like to try new flavors. I'm not so picky about her scents as they don't really stick with me after I shower. What about recycled sari silk yarn, witches and witchees? still not a yarnie! Sooo, the Blooddrop update (Aviary and Summer Simplicities). Anything you'd like from there? I have tried very few Blooddrop perfumes. On a check through the list, the following blends look interesting to me: Kea, Kestrel, Apricot Yoghurt and Orchid look like they could be wins! DEAR FIBER AND YARN PEOPLE: I am going back to Paradise Fibers today. They have like almost every type of fiber roving and dye and stuff available. If you're a spinner and have any fiber wishes, what would you like? Dyed or natural? Do you need dye? colors? brand? Not a yarnie. Tuesday July 2/13 Every package has to have something blue in it. Blue can also be used to describe more risque humor...how would you rate your general sense of humor? Are you strictly PG-13, R-rated, NC-17? NC-17 humor is fine by me! Do you like puzzles? What kind? Jigsaw, word, etc I talked about this on the thread, but I love puzzles. My favorites are crosswords and logic puzzles. I also have a fondness for jigsaw puzzles - early on in our relationship, the manbeast and I used to sit together and assemble them as part of a date night. We'd buy one of the cheapo ones at the Barnes and Nobles near our house and desperately look for a surface big enough for assembly. Monday July 1/13 I know Canadian chips can be different than others, how does "dill pickle" or "ketchup" sound? Not so good, actually. If you were getting a custom Haus of Gloi blend, what four notes would you choose? Summer notes listed here and you can click through to the whole list from there. Blood orange, lychee, fig, white amber. QUESTION! Do you like Kickstarter? Are there any projects up that you really like? Sure, but I tend to pick and choose. There is nothing I'm desperate to back at the moment. QUESTION! If you have an Etsy wishlist, what are your top 5 favorite things on there? The price is unimportant, not because I'm rich, but because I'd like some inspiration. (1) This coat: https://www.etsy.com/listing/111889535/custom-made-woolen-coat-with-round?ref=col_view (2) This mug: https://www.etsy.com/listing/62798499/half-agony-half-hope-persuasion-jane?ref=col_view (3) This necklace (love her stuff): https://www.etsy.com/listing/95104583/20-off-use-coupon-code-wedding-lotus?ref=col_view (4) This cushion cover: https://www.etsy.com/listing/85616823/vintage-map-cushion-pillow-eco-friendly?ref=col_view (5) This bag: https://www.etsy.com/listing/27316950/marigold-ambrosia-luxury-silk-tie-silk?ref=col_view Festival this week -- includes an "encampment" and an art faire. any interest in trinkety things from the encampment or cards/prints from local artists Sure - I love trinkets! How do you feel about glitter? does loose glitter make your skin crawl or would you bathe in it? hmmm, no thanks. Do you want/need/like/collect journals? If so, do you prefer lined or unlined? I only journal online, so this would likely be a waste. Does the idea of wearing a plant as jewelery give you the warm fuzzies or the heebie jeebies? warm fuzzies! Gourmet popcorn, yes/no? What do you like: glazed, savory, candied? Nuts or not? Any flavors you wouldn't like (like Bacon CHeeseburger, Pizza, Watermelon, Root Beer Float, Hot Chili Dark Chocolate)? Or if any of those sounded interesting, how weird is weird enough? No popcorn for me, thanks. Question: I make my own hair gloss, would you like some detangling and very shiny hair gloss made by me? This is a 'cone rich blend, not the least bit natural. Sure, I'd give it a try! Thursday June 27/13 I live near the Brown and Haley outlet - makers of Almond Roca and Mountain Bars - would you want anything from the outlet? For nut-haters, they have nutless Roca For the no-sugar folks they have sugar-free as well. Sure - just keep in mind the restrictions in my questionnaire. No gluten, and if possible, no processed sugar. I also have an Oberto jerky outlet local to me - any wants there? Noms. I like jerky. How do you feel about home-canned goods? More noms. I am all about home-made things - jams, salsa, dressings, chutneys, pickles, whatever. Just no gluten. Do you like BPTP clothing? Yes. What size do you wear of: Baby-doll T's Usually XXL? Although I'm kind of between sizes right now and the XXLs are getting big. Regular T's I don't much like the regular Ts - mens T-shirts fit me REALLY oddly because my boobs are big. The only men's t-shirts I buy are "slim fit" or uni-sex as they tend to stretch over my boobs and hips without making it look like I'm wearing a tent. yoga pants I've never bought them, but probably XXL as well. Also, what is your favorite lunacy (or non-lunacy) T-shirt that you don't already own? Hmm, not sure. I can tell you that I DO own Candles Moon 2012, Weeping branches Moon, Hungry Ghost Moon 2011 (my favorite) and Singing Moon 2012. I don't buy too many because I find them a bit expensive for a t-shirt as I like the tissue tees. It has to be a design I REALLY resonate with. Or other clothes from BPTP? Not that I can think of - I have the District shirt and I love it. What else do you love from the Trading Post site, and need to have? I like the room sprays and hair glosses very much. Lets see, I haven't tried any of the recent release of hair glosses, but I've tried everything from the first two releases. Both of the Lady of Pain hair glosses look great. I love the room sprays as well, and have a couple of my wishlist. I haven't tried any of the Lady of Pain sprays, and they all look fantastic. The candles I'm actually a little meh about - I loved my halloween candle from two years ago, but did not like the one I ordered this year and I haven't ordered any other. Again, they are a little pricey for me and nothing has really stood out as a YES YES YES. I am not interested in the soap (dries my skin) and I'm not into baths and since I found the glossing sprays from Haunt, I don't use the bathoils as moisturizer any more, so I'm probably good on that count as well. Is there a particular movie genre that you like (Fantasy? Drama? Romantic Comedy? Musicals? TV-Series, etc), and what format would you prefer: DVD, Blu-Ray, or something in the cloud (like Amazon, iTunes, Flixster, etc)? I like all kinds of movies. I have a bunch of things on my amazon wishlist (go back into the tunnel of time, dear witch!) that I still would like to get. I prefer DVD format. If there is some movie that I simply must see, that you think I'd love, well I am up for it. If you want to send me something digitally, that's fine too - I have amazon prime viewer and itunes. We also have an apple tv, so we can stream from itunes straight to the television. While I have librarything for my books, I don't have a good catalogue of my movies. I do have a letterboxd account (username is sophiawestern - http://letterboxd.com/sophiawestern/films/diary/), but it is sadly out of date especially as I watched a crap ton of movies on all of my long flights this summer. I'll work on updating it though - I've been meaning to do it anyway as I like organization. Following up on the Adagio question from earlier, what are you top five wishes, for teas and blends? I have no wishes as my tea knowledge is limited. If you would like to educate me, dear witch, I wouldn't say no. I like smoky flavors, vanillas and fruity teas. I do not like plain green tea. Do you have anything that you do ritually, every summer? Travel? I usually spend the first weekend of August in Spokane, WA with my mom's side of my extended family. I also travel to Spain each summer, although this is a more recent thing. What are your top five wishes from ThinkGeek? I have a wishlist there - email address LTallman@gmail.com. Seen anything lately that makes you go OH HOLY FUCK THAT'S AWESOME!!? When I was SCUBA diving in Thailand, one of the other people had a dive log book that had plastic page protectors in it. Little plastic page protectors for the log sheets. That is BRILLIANT. I always forget my log book so I have a million loose pieces of paper from the various dives I've done and I'd love to get some kind of small binder with protective pages for them all. Her binder had a cute fishie design on the outside too. Do you like audiobooks? If so, do you have/would you like to try Audible? (I'm an addict, myself.) I do not like audiobooks. Chocolate: Love? Hate? Allergic? If love, what are your faves? Dark chocolate - the darker, the better! Noms. Wednesday June 26/13 Do you have any long trips coming up? If so, could you use things to occupy yourself? So many, but you already know that, dear witch. Ebooks are the best present for me for travel. I'm going to Jungle Jim's next week (it's basically a massive international food gasm in Ohio, look it up); would anything interest you? I leave this to your discretion, dear witch! If you think there's something I'd like, go for it! Name three things that you could use, but might not necessarily think to get for yourself? Plain, thin headbands (to hold back fly aways), ball point pens with a fine tip, a magnetic grocery list pad that sticks on the fridge (those are the things that popped into my mind as stuff I've wanted most recently!) Does anything from the TP Etsy update interest you? I bought a bottle of horticultral spray and that's the only thing. I just found out Oreo is launching ones with watermelon flavor in the USA only. Is it something you would enjoy? Ew. What are the three BPALs you would most like to receive - one GC, one not-hard to find LE, and one HTF LE from your dreams? GC: Czernobog; LE: maybe Arana, or Passion Flower SN; HTF: Jingo Kogo. Or more Antique Lace (although that's greedy as I have a bottle). Or Siberian Musk SN If you don't consider yourself in a "fandom" (and I get that ... I don't really go overboard on my liking of any TV show/Movie/etc), are there any TV shows or Movies that you really like and/or watch regularly or any actors/actresses you wouldn't leave standing in the rain (unless you like looking at them sopping wet, in which case ... well, nevermind)? I think I covered my television likes and dislikes in my questionnaire. As far as actors/actresses - I'm not really one to fawn on celebrities. I typically prefer the characters they play in various movies and television shows to themselves. So, dear witchee, would you like some Tw*twaffle soap or scent or lotion? No? Yes? I'm not sure - I think perhaps I need to check the thread to understand this. Has anyone asked about tattoos? Do you love them? Hate them? Have any? Want any? I have two - a compass on my ankle and a moon rising over water on my back. I frequently think about getting more. Tuesday June 25/13 If you knit/crochet, what sizes of needles do you need? I do not knit or crochet. What styles of artwork do you like? I like all different stuff - my taste is really eclectic. I posted some photos of my apartment in the thread, but here is a guest pass for a more inclusive set on flickr so you can get a sense of my style. http://flickr.com/gp/lissaphoto/516n11/ If you cook, would you be interested in-hand made spice mixes/rubs? Sure! Would you like mexican vanilla or silver rings/necklaces? Yes and yes. The Conjure Oils update (http://conjureoils.com/emporium.htm) looks absolutely fabulous...I didn't know she made soaps and candles and whanot. Is there anything from the Oddment Emporium you would like? The dry perfume sprays sound awesome. Midnight, Heliophobe and Fire Dragon Parasol appeal to me the most, although I've never tried Conjure Oils. What is your favorite color? red What is your favorite season? spring If you could live anywhere in the world and money was no object, where would it be? Barcelona. Monday June 24/13 Do you have any symbols or totems that are meaningful to you? Not really. I do like penguins an awful lot. When you are having a really rough day, what do you like to do/have to make it a little brighter? Take a long shower, have a nice glass of wine, eat some dark chocolate and read one of my favorite books. Would you like if your witch sent a regional pop/soda? If so, what type (Root beer, creme soda, cola, citrus-flavored, chocolate-flavored, etc...)? Probably no - unless you have Peartiser or Stoney Ginger beer. Ninjas or Pirates? Ninjas! Werewolves or vampires? Vampires! Zombie or Cthulhu? um.... neither? Do you want to receive one big package or a bunch of small ones? Digital stuff all at the end when the box should arrive or as we go? Whatever you wish, dear witch. The only thing I fervently hope is that we keep playing all the way to the end of the round. Do you welcome knitted items? If so, what would you like most? (amigurumi, washcloth, socks, shawl, shawlette, scarf, wrist warmers, hat, etc.) Do you have any favorite fibers? How about any fiber allergies? Favorite color for knitted items? Sure, knitted things are fine. I have a lot of scarves, but could always use more hats or fingerless gloves. Michigan is cold. Sunday June 23/13 Is there a Quote that resonates with you, or that you particularly like a lot. Would this be something you would like artwork made of for your walls or a shirt/bag/scarf? I love quotes in general and I collect them in various place. You can read some in my mostly defunct (and open) livejournal - http://users.livejournal.com/la_boheme_/. Some favorites: Pity the poor in spirit who know neither the enchantment nor the beauty of language. - Muriel Barbery, The Elegance of the Hedgehog For the first time I actually felt like I owned my skin, like it was me and I was it. - Junot Diaz, The Brief Wonderous Life of Oscar Wao How I wished sometimes that I could join him in his stark, right-angled world, where everything was either right or wrong and there was no doubt which was which. What unimaginable luxury, never to wrestle with whether or why, never to lie awake nights wondering what if. - Hillary Jordan, Mudbound I am a restlessness inside a stillness inside a restlessness. - Dodie Smith, I Capture the Castle I am the outskirts of a town which isn't there, the lengthy commentary on a book that hasn't been written.- Fernando Pessoa You have often begun to tell me what I am, but stopped and left me to a bootless inquisition. - William Shakespeare, "The Tempest" Also, STARBUCKS, Yay or Nay? Anything you particularly like? Starbucks, yay! Not instant coffee, but anything else is good. Is there someone on the forums (within SW or not) who knows you really well and might be able to help with stalking? you could try izile and Invidiana - both my real life friends from New York. Also Obsidienne who I have been friends with for over a decade. If you happen to find out who yours is, how much would it bother you? My witch? Not at all! Last round, I accidently betrayed my identity ON THE FIRST DAY. #switchwitchfail Do you use waxmelts or tarts? If so, which ones do you prefer? I have no tart burner, so no. Do you enjoy drinking hot chocolate, and would you like stuff to make it with, or to add to it? Sure, cocoa is nice. I don't drink it much because of the aforementioned sugar restrictions. Have you ever tried Spoonfudge? Would you enjoy it if your Witch would send you some? Which of the flavors would you like? I do not know what Spoonfudge is... (google) Looks good. Sounds kind of sugary though? If you think I'd like it, go for it. What's your opinion on Moonalisa? Any favorites or products you'd like to try? I've never tried it, but everyone raves about it. If I should be enabled, go for it. The bodywash and/or conditioner probably appeal to me most as products I'd like to try. No on all of the bath brews and such as I don't take baths. Are there any BPALs that you loved the idea of, the imagery - whether artwork or description - but which didn't work out for you? (I'm asking because if they did, you might mention them elsewhere, but if not, the imagery might be helpful) No so much, really. I'm into the bpal for the scents and I often don't pay much attention to the imagery. Although the new line of natural drawings on the bottles I do love. Saturday June 22/13 Put your mp3 player/online music/itunes/etc on random and list the next 10 songs here: 1. In the Waiting Line - Zero 7 2. Turn Turn Turn - Byrds 3. Comfortably Numb - Scissor Sisters 4. Blah Blah - Kate Miller-Heidke 5. Riverboat Song - Ocean Colour Scene 6. You Oughta Know - Alanis Morisette 7. Blue and Sudden - Ten Mile Tide 8. Be Ok - Ingrid Michaelson 9. Brown Sugar - Rolling Stones 10. Case in Point - Andrew Bird what is your favourite object, that you own, ignoring sentimental reasons for attachment? So I guess something you find beautiful, or fun, or incredibly useful. Probably done of my art. I love my giant poster of the birds in black and white (in my office over my desk). How big is too big...for something to hang on your walls? If I'm painting you a pretty picture, are there maximum dimensions that you have/prefer? As you prefer - I love art and I can always find room! Gift cards/vouchers - yay or nay? If you like them - which stores would you like one for? Yay! Wherever - online retailers are probably best as it's easy to redeem. Starbucks is always good too. Is there anything from Australia you would like? eg: snacks (yes, you can ask for Tim Tams!), books, magazines, memorabilia? TIMTAMTIMTAMTIMTAM Do you have any problems with swearing or particularly off-color humor? Fuck no! What style is your sense of humour? Dry, sarcastic - I like "smart" humor, not slapstick humor. Opinions on table top games, from cards and board games, to dice and rpgs. What do you like? What don't you like? Favorites? Any classics you like? Do you collect any? I like games, but no friends to play them with (boo hoo hoo - moving is hard!). My don't do any RPGs. My favorite games tend to be word games, like scrabble or scatergories or apples to apples. What would you like from the most recent BPAL update? What are you planning on buying for yourself and what would you like to try? I didn't buy anything for myself, yet, not even decants. I will likely buy the Sweet Pea SN. There are a couple bottles I'd be interested in trying - Aurelia*, Calocyclas*, Desmonema, Epibulia, and Octopus*. The starred ones I'm pretty sure won't work, but I'm interested in trying anyway. (Aurelia has strawberry, which always smells fake to me, Calocyclas has sandalwood which usually smells like pencil shavings and Octopus is a salty aquatic which can be really hit or miss - especially with Rose geranium). If I were to order decants, those are the ones I'd do but I was thinking about waiting for some reviews this time since they'll be up for a couple of months. I had high hopes for A Tremulous Song and ordered a ton of decants and none of them were what I was really hoping for. Is there a literary character you identify with? Even if it's not spot-on, just someone you found yourself having that "I identify with this" feeling? Not off the top of my head. What are the three books you most want to read right now, and which you don't already have? 1 - A Tale for the Time Being by Ruth Ozeki 2 - The Girl Who Chased the Moon: A Novel by Sarah Addison Allen 3 - The 39 Deaths of Adam Strand by Gregory Galloway Would you like something from Empire Edibles? The caramels look good. Is there anything small you try to collect from everywhere you visit? Fridge magnets Witchee, I know that SW isn't about what you get... but could you name one thing you would be heartbroken not to get and one thing you would be a-ok if it didn't make it in your box? (i.e. do you REALLY want perfume oil of some sort, or would you be totally heartbroken if there was no Lush in your box, etc A reveal! Do you like tarot cards, pendulums and rune stones etc? If so, what type? I don't have any of the sort - I wouldn't mind something about how to read tarot and a deck. I'm certainly interested. What fandoms do you belong to? I'm not much for the rabid fandoms. What cheers you up? Books! Who or where would you most want to haunt? Who would you least want to be haunted by? I don't think I'd want to be haunted. Maybe my grandmother? Because I'll miss her when she is gone. But honestly, I don't like to think about death very much because it terrifies me. TERRIFIES. ME. What question do you hate to answer? How was your trip? As if I could possible sum up everything that happened in a trip with anything other than a long monologue or just "great". What is the best compliment you have/could receive? I like it when people compliment my cooking or my driving as those are things that people in my past have made me feel bad about for no good reason. Would you like anything from an European country? Any particular food or goodies, magazines, books, whatever would be available to your witch in his/her country. Sure, whatever you like. Do you like bags? If so, what type (rucksack, clutch, shopping bag) colour and would you like/need a new one? I love bags. I prefer things with a long shoulder strap as I have issues with my shoulders and need to wear things cross body. Or clutches or wristlets are always good too. And shopping bags are a-okay, especially as I am an avid farmers market goer. What's your favourite comfort food(snack or candy etc) and/or drink? Wine? Would you be interested in someone writing out for you a favourite recipe, or finding or devising one which they think you'd like? If so, please provide your favourite ingredients, info on how you like to cook/store and use food, and any intolerances - unless all of these are in your questionnaire, or you don't like the idea. (I'm not saying I'd definitely do this, unless someone is keen, and it wouldn't be the only gift). I guess for other witches this might include something like a knitting pattern - not my thing but would you like that? Or indeed would you like a picture created for you (if so what kind) or a story written? (sorry if this feels a bit Spanish Inquisition!) I think my food preI ferences are pretty well laid out in my questionnaire and in these Q&As. Art I leave to my witch's discretion - I adore handmade things and can always find a place for them. I don't knit, so that wouldn't be so good. If you knew you were going to live comfortably for say 800 years, what profession, calling or project might you pursue with some of your extra years, which you imagine you may not do in the life that you have? I'd be a professional photographer. I got into the hobby late® in life, when I was almost finished with college and already on a the track to be what I currently am. But I love it so very much, and I wish I could make it into a profession. When I was a little girl, I thought I wanted to grow up and write and illustrate children's books, so maybe I'd take photographs to go in children's books that I wrote. Or maybe I'd be an interior designer! I don't know, definitely an artist of some sort. Regardless, I feel pretty lucky, all in all, to be doing what I do. I gave up all of my twenties to pursuing a Ph.D., but I don't think I could handle working a desk job. And science pays better than art, sadly. Is there any thing - an object, a donation on your behalf, some research done for you, whatever - that your witch could do about this that you would like? And if you can't think of a present, would you rather she/he (I!) didn't either and confined themselves to things you are already involved in? I'm not sure I have an answer here. What colors/style is your kitchen decor? And do you entertain in your home? I posted some photos in the thread and you can check my flickr set. I do like to entertain, but I am sadly lacking in friends at the moment. Are your ears pierced? Many times. Do you like stuffies/stuffed animals/art doll type thingies? If so, any particular type you'd love to get? If you find something that you simply MUST get for me, it's perfect and it's meaningful, then I will treasure it. I don't collect stuffed animals though, so don't go out of your way to look for them. Switch Witch is, of course, all about you.....but if your Witch was so inclined, are there wee little ones in your home that will get jealous and are just too young to understand why you won't share the love, who maybe need a touch of Witchee love all their own, to distract them while you hide all your lovelies?!? I am child-free by choice, however the man-child I live with does like to pick at foodstuffs my witch may send to me! Thursday June 20/13 Do you read literature/culture blogs or websites of any kind? I'm thinking about anything that would help a putative witch to get a sense of what your current tastes in books, movies, games, genres, approaches to culture and literature and so forth are Let's see, I read Gawker and I read the AV Club. How do you feel about traditional picnics (namely the intimate table for two variety)? Old-fashioned basket or something more utilitarian (cooler/insulated bag)? I like them, but I'm not much of a picnic-er. If you were put in a room with 100 random other people the same age and sex as you, from your country, in what way do you think you would be different from the average? I need to come back to this one when I have more time. Haus of Gloi did a Reverie update! Do any of them interest you? (Or anything else up currently?) The only product I've tried is the lotion in amber, which I like. I wish the scent were a little stronger in it - I get a lot of the base ingredients, but what I can smell smells good! I'd try some of the scrubs, for sure. You have my list of scent likes and dislike - do your best! I will say that nothign on the Reverie catches my eye, but the Beguiled in the summer scents for the scrub looks yummy. Witchee, do you cook? Do you do all the cooking? Is it a chore or a pleasure? I do cook some, but the boy does more. It is a pleasure, usually. I like simple, tasty recipes that are quick to prepare. Bonus if I can sub ingredients to use up my CSA stuff! Which reading level do you prefer to read in YA or Adult? Or even both? I like both. Good young adult literature is good. Wednesday June 19/13 - part the second Do you like sample sized things? Think lipgloss, mascara, bodylotion, scrubs, mini candles, and so forth. Sure, that's fine. I like to try things before I committ. Have you tried Fortune Cookie Soap? What products or scents would you like? I have not, but see my previous comments as to bars of soap. Usually, I do not like. Do you use solid soaps at all? If so, what kind do or don't you like? No thanks. Have you ever tried Cocoa Pink? If you are curious about it, what looks interesting to you? I have never tried it, but the dry oil sprays, after sun glow and both of the scrubs look interesting! There are lots of scents the look good on the winter 2012 list - if you look at my list of notes I like, you can probably guess which appeal. For scrubs, I do like foody scents too. For perfumes, I prefer a little less foody. Do you like Lush? If so, what is your favorite product that is currently available, also, what is a product that you love but has been discontinued? I do, but I don't buy it much. I like the Ocean Spray face scrub so so much. Anyone a fan of Shiro Cosmetics? Any particular products? Eye shadow pigments in general? Never tried it! Are there any companies, products, or items you boycott? Not aggressively. I try to stay away from products with palm oil, but I'm not consistent about it. I do boycott Chik Fil A (as my friend says - they serve up tasty bags of deep fried hate) and Walmart (aka the evil empire). Also, it's not a boycott per se, but it has been YEARS since I've eaten at any fast food establishment that isn't Subway. Ever since I was Super Size Me in the theater, I've stayed away from fast food. Pretty much, if it has a drive through, I probably won't eat there. As I am in Japan, what sort of things would you like from there? Ooh, some nice origami papers would be most welcome! Since FB and the FB Gusp group (and the BPAL Sorority which is quiet) have become gathering places...what are some of your favorite Facebook pages you like? Not sure I have any of these. Wednesday June 19/13 If you could have one rare bpal which one would you choose? Jingo-Kogo. Are you kinky? Not really. Do you enjoy scented candles? Certain sizes that you like? What kind of scents or brands? I do enjoy scented candles! I like Witch City Wicks a lot, but basically any clean burning, soy kind of candle is good for me. I like a wide variety of smells too. Some fresher smelling ones might be nice as I have a lot of foodie ones (which I love!) but I tend to go for those in the winter. Thoughts about South Africa? Have you been here, would you like to go? Would you like to receive anything South African? I have been there. My favorite things from South Africa are not very exportable. I have dreams about drinking Peartizer again. mmmmmmmmmm, Peartizer. I also really like Stoney Tangawisi, which is sold all over east Africa and South Africa, bottled by Coca Cola, but sadly not available in the US. That's all I can really think of - I'm stocked up on other African bits and bobs. Do you like Sockdreams? If so, what styles would you prefer? (You can also link your wishlist.) Yes, sock dreams is awesome! I love all the patterned trouser socks - I like to wear them in the fall. Not so big on thigh highs. Do you need hair accessories? If so, what kind or color? Hmm, I'll pass on these. What is your favorite shade of blue? Turquoise Do you have any kitchen gadgets (a SodaStream, a Kuerig/Tassimo) that you want mix things for? Nope. If you were to start learning something new (intellectual or craft or hobby), what would it be? Perhaps knitting. What about candy? Do you have a sweet tooth? I covered this in my questionnaire, but I DO have a sweet tooth and I'm trying to stay away from most sweets. Dark chocolate would be welcome. Do you have an e-reader? What kind? Would you like to get ebooks? I have a Kindle, and EMPHATIC YES on ebooks! Love them! If your witch is an extremely crafty sort, and she were to send all kinds of homemade foody goodies and handmade crafty stuff - what are items you would NOT LOVE to receive. Please don't hedge on this one...some of us are serious crafters and will be making most of what we send! I'm open to pretty much anything! As I said in my questionnaire, I'd like the limit the baked goods, but that's about it. Do you worst! I love handmade things. Witchee dear, do you like video games? Are there any you want to play? Do you have a large library? Not much of a gamer. Do you have something you do, without fail, as a personal daily habit/ritual? (Examples: pen-and-paper journal keeping, tea/coffee drinking, morning yoga, nightly bedtime reading. I'm kind of thinking on things that would be dear to you and might need small supplies or could use certain extras. ) My morning coffee. It's not really a ritual per se, but the day isn't quite right if I dont' have it. Do you wear nailpolish? What colors do you tend to go for? What are your favorite brands? Are you open to trying indie brands? Yes, and I like OPI a lot. I'm open to any colors! Name three BPAL scents you have tried, but are dying to get more of. Elf v4, Siberian Musk SN, Dream of Fisherman's Wife Do you still write real letters on nice stationary to people you like/love? Occasionally. I do like stationary a lot. Have you ever tried anything from Paintbox Soapworks? Which products or scents would you prefer? Yes, but it's been a while. I like the sorbetto scrubs. Do you like/have space to garden? If so, what do you grow? No garden for me, sadly. I do have some indoor plants - I like to grow herbs and cacti. Monday June 17/13 Dr Who? Nope, no thanks. How much do you like lipbalm? Flavored or unflavored? What are your favorite brands and flavors? I am not a lipbalm girl, I'm afraid. I like a good medicated blistex when my lips are chapped, but otherwise I go bare lipped, or with gloss. Do you like and wear lipgloss? If yes, what colours? I do like lip gloss. I prefer kinds that are relatively sheer, or lightly tinted in a natural kind of color and not sticky. For those of you whose wishlists contain only BPALs, are there any other perfume companies you like or would like to try out? I mentioned this in my questionnaire AND my wishlist has other companies, but I really like Nocturne Alchemy, Arcana and especially Haunt products. I've never tried Moonalisa. I have one bottle of Violette Market and one or two of Possets and I've gotten samples here and there, but I have not tried anything extensively. I like the companies though, so if there is something you think I'd like, go for it! I've also gotten samples here and there of Solstice scents and while nothing has jumped out at me thus far, I'm not opposed. I'm not big on villainess perfumes - they smell great, but do not last at. all. on my skin. Must be her carrier oil or something. Your feelings on Adagio teas: If you've never had anything from them, would you be open to trying them? If you HAVE had them and like them, name some favorites blends. And if you had them and dislike them, can you name a few *other* tea companies you're into? I have not tried any Adagio teas. I am not a huge tea drinker. When I drink it, I prefer whole leaf and not bagged, mostly. I'm pretty open - the only thing I know I dislike is plain green tea. Things I know I especially like are Tazo's Vanilla Rooibos tea, Tazo's Passionfruit tea and Bigelow peach herbal tea. I've tried a bunch of stuff at Teavana and I always like what they have out to sample, but I rarely purchase as it is so expensive. I do have a loose tea drainer dealy and a measurer and canister from Teavana from the one time I bought some tea there. What about coffee? Would you like to get coffee send to you? Whole bean or ground? What are some varieties and/or flavors you enjoy LOVE coffee. Prefer whole bean, prefer not fruit flavored, or hazelnut. Other than that, sky is the limit! Who is your favourite female of all time? Historical, literary, ANYTHING, and why? Oh, I don't know that I can choose a favorite, period. I always favor the sort of badasses though - for historical, people like Queen Elizabeth I or Eleanor of Aquitaine who managed to do a lot despite the shitty lot of women in the middle ages. I'm also a big fan of Rosalind Franklin who totally deserved a slice of the Nobel Prize with Watson and Crick. If you were a Disney princess you would be?: I would not wish to be a disney princess. They all end up married as teenagers! Would you like a seashell from Florida? No thanks. What craft project do you currently have on your docket or that you want to start? And that craft goodies would be welcome? I don't get my craft on much, I must say. I don't know that there are many craft supplies that would be welcome. When I have time, I make books but I haven't exercised that craft in a while.

On me, this is an effervescent vanilla. FWIW, it don't get the "soap" feeling the freneticfloetry gets. It almost smells like a light vanilla mixed with one of the champagne notes (perhaps the musk is giving me this feeling). It's light and refreshing and just perfect for summer! I don't get any violets at all, and that is one of my death notes. It must be very subtle (perhaps the sharp sweetness Freneticfloetry alludes to) and must just be adding to the roundness of the scent. I didn't really think I was going to buy this one, but then I couldn't help myself.

This smells like a single note myrrh on my skin. All I get in a single scent and it is a smooth, sweet resin. Try this if you liked Cat Allingham or Ra.

Very "clean" smelling. The metallic note reminds me strongly of the "metal" in Torture Queen - it's mostly light ozone and high florals. This is a pretty scent, but has low lasting power.

This was all coffee and cardamom on my skin. Heavy, intense, dry coffee. The rose note is there, but it is in the background and does not predominate. I'm not big on foodie scents, so I passed on this one, but it would be awesome as a room spray.