ralenth

Source: Lab imp, new. Wet: Warm, resiny, lush, slightly boozy. Drydown: Slightly honeyed red wine. The resin seems to be fading as it dries. Dry: Barely there, honey dust. Throw: Minimal. Very close to skin. Overall: It doesn't last more than an hour, at most. I enjoyed Athens, though.

Source: Original decant circle bottle from Lab, aged. Bottle: White chocolate dominates my nose anytime I put it to this bottle. I catch hints of a plasticky fruitiness. I think my nose is out to be a foodie hater without even giving it a chance. Silly nose. Now, to skin test... Wet: Lush, swelling apricot. Sweet and juicy... it is completely inducing lascivious thoughts. Mmm, apricots. Drydown: The white chocolate comes into play gently, which surprises me. Usually this is all I can smell. A few soft raspberry whispers chime in. Lovely, delicate balance. Overall: Soft, and prettily sweet. It no longer has the initial apricot va-va-voom that made my heart race, but it is still has a nice balance. I don't usually want to smell like candy, but if I did, I would reach for this.

Source: Fresh Lab imp In the imp: Tart cherries and... gravy? Wet: The cherry Luden's note whooshes to the top over a thrumming gravy boat. Drydown: The cherry is subsiding and I'm starting to get the aroma of one of those tv dinners with the turkey and stuffing. Hmm. Dry: Slightly buttery stuffing drizzled with gravy. Overall: I'm suddenly wishing for Thanksgiving. I'm not a foodie, but my curiosity has been assuaged. To date, this is the strangest BPAL I have tried.

Soft, cool heather, dribbled with blackberry juice and wrapped in a misty breeze. Glasgow reminds me of washing my hair after brewing heather beer. Obviously, we're missing the warm hoppiness, but it's quite charming. Surprisingly, I'm in love.

Sweet, lush floral with aquatic undertones. I was surprised by this one completely. Now I'm looking at planting of these some come spring.

09.16.12 What are your "fandoms" and would you like a t-shirt from TeeFury if an appropriate one came up? Doctor Who, Sherlock. I have a lot of tees already and winter is coming. Do you have an eReader and if so which one? Yes, a Nook Simple Touch. Do you like candles, or tart burners, or something? If so, what's your favorite scent to burn? I no longer have anything like this after the move. I'm not sure how safe it would be around my cats. What kind of cuisines do you like? And, what are your favorite restaurants? I am an adventurous eater! In my kitchen, we have a lot of Southwestern spices, because that is what I grew up with. I like local, independent restaurants. I'm from Canada - is there anything specifically a witchee might like that is only available here? I adore maple sugar candy. Are home made foods acceptable or does the idea of eating strange mailed food disturb you? I am okay with it, but I don't use any artificial sweeteners in my diet because they give me headaches. Also, I'm pretty sure I said it a billion times in my questionnaire, but please, no cinnamon. I just gave you $20 and sent you into a "has everything" store ala Walmart and told you that you have to come out having spent it all, and none of it on anything you need. What would you buy? Be as specific as possible! I live near a Whole Foods, Trader Joe's, and Penzeys! What does your little heart desire from any or all of these places? I live near all of these stores too, and I love them to bits. Especially Penzey's. Would you enjoy receiving cute but useful items like colorful kitchen utensils/gadgets, or bento supplies? (boxes, chopsticks, accessories, etc?) What about things like spice mixes (homemade, or Penzey's for example) Of course! We do have a tiny kitchen, though, so multitaskers are important. I have been lusting after bento goods for some time now, so that's a yes, as are clearly labeled spice mixes. Do you like cute, seasonal or fluffy PJ bottoms? Like they sell at Target, Old Navy (they have had cute Halloween ones!) If so, what size do you wear? Yes, I am a sucker for Nick & Nora's PJs that they have at Target (Medium). Otherwise, I can be a tough fit. What kind of chocolate do you like? Nuts, no nuts, white,dark, etc? Dark, nuts acceptable. Do you like s'mores and s'mores-flavored things? I like marshmallows and chocolate, but graham crackers sometimes have the cinna-monster in them. What's the neatest freebie you've gotten? It can be cool or thoughtful or just totally unexpected, and not limited to BPALdom. Marzipan? Ooo, yes. Would you be interested in washable/reusable muslin “paper” towels (basically muslin squares hemmed around the edge)? Maybe in some sort of box to put on your kitchen or bathroom counter? We have zero counter space, so no. Do you drink alcohol and if so, would you be OK with your witch sending you homemade infused vodka? Yes and yes. If you get me (or a fellow Aussie, if there are any playing this round) as a witch or witch's minion, would you like to try some Australian specialties, such as TimTams (delicious chocolately cookies), Caramello Koalas (koala shaped chocolates filled with gloopy caramel), Australian native spices or anything like that? I love Tim Tams and am always open to food items. If your witch is a knitter, crocheter or sewer, is there a particular type of garment you would love to receive (hat, scarf, wrap, cowl, socks, fingerless gloves, arm warmers etc)? Hat/scarf Is there anyone else in your house (kids, pets, partner) that would really appreciate a small gift being included for them in the switchwitchy haul so they don't feel left out? My boyfriend is fascinated by SwitchWitch. It would be cute to include him. Since it's been mentioned several times, and I've also offered to nacho witch some, would you you like to receive wild rice and or maple syrup? I promise to include recipe ideas with the wild rice. Yes, very much so to both. I have 5 bushels of tomatoes sitting in the kitchen right now that are supposed to turn into red sauce tomorrow, so would anyone like a basic red sauce (spaghetti sauce) to make its way to them? Yum! Would you be interested in having a bat adopted in your name? I love bats. This would be so fun. How would you feel about a taste of (insert witch location here) box? I had a previous Witch send me a local food item. It was neat! Some of your favorite artists? Classic and modern? If you could have an image or certain subject painted for you on any type of "canvas" (on a box, on paper, on a canvas, and so on) - could you point your witch to some of these images? Is there a GC scent that's been on your list for ages but keeps falling off the bottom of your order because of the LEs? I've been getting into indie nail polish brands recently. What's your favorite indie brand of nail polish? Or what's your favorite mainstream brand of nail polish? Or are you not big on polish? Zoya. Stuffed things: yea or nay? Yay! Mix-in-a-jar? How to you feel about cookie or cake or soup mixes that come in jars and you just add, like, an egg or water or what have you? Awesome! Would you be interested in beer, wine, or other specialty beverages from your Witch's area? Yep! Are there any crafts/skills you've wanted to learn but haven't gotten around to? And if so, would you be interested in supplies and tutorials? I am curious about knitting now that I live somewhere cold. Who here would be happy to get a lil' sumthin sumthin from Adagio Teas? I have never tried their stuff. Do you Ravelry? And if so, what's your handle over there? Would you be interested in gift patterns from your queue? Not yet. I live near this very cool Retro store (retrodrygoods.com) (you can order online too) - are there things from it that would make you squee if your witch sent them? Not really. Who likes Pumpkin Spice Hershey Kisses? They're interesting, but I am not sure I can have them any more. What does your kitchen look like? Colors/style? Stainless steel and red currently. We have the tiniest kitchen ever. Witchee, what are your favorite quotes? "Closing your eyes isn't going to change anything. Nothing's going to disappear just because you can't see what's going on. In fact, things will be even worse the next time you open your eyes. That's the kind of world we live in, Mr. Nakata. Keep your eyes wide open. Only a coward closes his eyes. Closing your eyes and plugging up your ears won't make time stand still." - Murakami Haruki, Kafka on the Shore Put your iPod/MP3 player/what-have-you on random and list the first 10 songs it plays! What's one random thing you really like and one random thing you really dislike? Like: Puppets. Dislike: Beets. Are there any herbs that you haven't been able to lay hands on that I could send you? There's an herbal shop I really like here in NYC called Flower Power (flowerpower.net) that has quite a wide selection. I don't know of any. If there are no "witchy" shops near you, is there anything I can pick up for you from Enchantments? No, thank you. Hey Witchee! I want to send you a delivery. It could be cupcakes from a local bakery, it could be a singing hugging bear-a-gram, it could be a bouquet of flowers. But it will be something that you need to be there to receive. a) Are you OK with "special deliveries"? *waggles eyebrows* B..) Is the address in your questionnaire the best place to reach you for said deliveries? c) If the delivery requires a phone number (as say, some florists do) would you be OK with that information being tracked down by your Witch or asked of you anonymously? A: Yes. B: Yes. C: Yes. What are some things you are OK with receiving gently used or homemade, and some things you absolutely do not want if they are gently used or homemade? I am pretty flexible. I live near a Mast General Store (mastgeneralstore.com). It has lots of vintage-y toys, southern foods (jams, jellies, spices) and vintage candy. Is there anything I can get for you? I <3 jams. Do you have any Fall or Halloween traditions? DDLM is pretty big where I'm from. Ninjas or Pirates? I have an extra room spray and 2 extra bath oils (one Cephalopod, one Exhibit Hall Fatigue) from Dragon*Con - would anybody like a decant? No bath, though I am curious about it. Witchee, would you like it if I made you a "mix tape" of songs that I think you might like? And if so, would you prefer mp3 or CD format? CDs! I know it is totally the wrong season (for most of us), but do you like/have space to garden? If so, what do you like to grow? I love to garden, but I can only do a little window one right now. I'm about to be near a Lush store next week, is there anything you might like from there? It's been a while since I've Lushed up, but I have a soft spot for Jungle. Songs that you keep meaning to buy but never get round to it? Movies that you love but forgot to put in your questionnaire? Any favorite Bath & Body Works scents/products? Not really. Haus of Gloi is offering custom perfumes - would you like one? What would your ideal blend be? Leather/beeswax/lavender Any Bath, Body or nutritional type items you would love to try from a Natural and Organic food store (similar to Whole Foods) that you don't buy because they are a bit too pricey? I tend to only buy natural ones, so I'm used to the prices. OK, so those of you who said you wouldn't mind receiving (sneakily packaged!) beer or wine: Tell me of your taste preferences. Dry/sweet? Red/white? Lager/ale/porter/stout? Fruit? Spice? Hops? Sour (brettanomyces, etc)? Dry reds, occasional blushes. Prefer weighter beers (porters/stouts), fruit is okay, spice is no (cinnamon scary), hops meh, sour yum. Witchee, will you be gone from your normal mailing address at any point during the round? Oct 21-27. Are you a Disney fan or does even thinking about Disney make your head hurt? If you're into Disney, would you like something from the Happiest Place on Earth ? I don't think so? I do love the movies though. Would you, could you use an electric candle warmer? No. Do you lust after some new socks/tights? Oh god, yes. Are there any of MeiLin's books (e-book or print) you'd be interested in? I think I have them all already. Are you a gamer (of any sort - video, casual, tabletop) and are there any games you want? Yes, video and boardgames. I have been lusting after Gloom. Would you be interested in BPTP CANDY? No. Do you like coffee? If so, what kinds? Flavored, fancy, basic? Beans or ground? Yes! Non-flavored, whole bean. Would a Starbucks gift card make you happy or do you prefer your local place? I prefer home. CUSTOM-Made Pottery?? yea or nay? coffee mugs, rustic or more elegant? a set of bowls? soap dish? bird feeder? something altogether different? and lastly, good colors for glazes...? No, thank you. Do you have a forum buddy? Someone who knows you and/or your tastes well enough to answer questions on your behalf? mymymai and I are very close IRL. If you are on Livejournal, would you appreciate LJ stuff like paid time, custom userheads, stuff like that? If you are NOT on LJ but are on other sites that have similar paid-for services (Flickr, for example?) would you, and what are those sites/etc? No. If you are into tarot, what is your favorite card? I'm not, though I love to look at the art. Would you like your own set of handmade rune stones or worry stones? No. Coffee, tea, hot chocolate, cider, or none of the above? Yes to all, though no cinnamon. Gum, hard candy, soft candy, or none of the above? Sure. Loose tea or tea bags? Do you need anything for your loose tea? (Filters, presses, etc.) I could use a travel tea press, but I can do loose or bagged tea. If you like tea, what kinds? Anything not-flavored. Do you do Goodreads or LibraryThing or a site like that? If so, can I see your to-read list, please? I have Goodreads. Zombies; Yay or Nay? If you have cats, do they like catnip toys? If you have doggies, would they like a super-reinforced canvas toy with a squeaker in it? Yes, my kitties like catnip like whoa. If you have kids, what are they into? N/A How do you feel about wearable knitted lace? Shawls, wraps, and the like? Jealous that I don't know how. Looking at the warehouse, I notice that our lovely Greenwoodtree is able to do chart readings and/or forecasts at a very reasonable rate. Is this something you would want? No. I live in Japan. Anything you would be interested in from there? Stationery, stamps, weird candies. Candy Corn: yes, no? Yes. WHAT MAKES YOU LAUGH YOUR ASS OFF!!! movies, comedians, black humor, your partner, a comic strip? what? The Daily Show, Colbert Report, Eddie Izzard, Lewis Black You are meeting up with someone on a casual lunch/early afternoon thing. This person is someone you want to impress/look good for (for whatever reason, not necessarily romantic, and not necessarily for business either). What would you look like, given the contents of your wardrobe/etc? Something black, classic. You are to be let loose in a clothing store of your choice, to pick a full outfit, down to the shoes, the accessories, etc. and things would be altered to fit you if needed. What store would that be, and what would you look like? You open a box from the post office to reveal the 3 things you want most right now. What are they? (caveats: size doesn't matter, but they have to be tangible/buyable). The end of this month I'm going to Scarefest, the big horror and paranormal con in Kentucky. (www.scarefest.com) If I were your witch, is there anything you would like from there (skull jewelry, art prints from an artist that catch your eye, etc), or anyone whose autograph or photo or such you would dig? What is your holy grail "I'd kill to just have one drop in an imp" bpal scent? Voodoo Queen. Are there any existing Weenies that you have your eye on, but haven't gotten around to getting? No, I'm running a circle. If you wear earrings, do you have pierced ears? Yes, I tend to buy mine from Wyrding Studios. My new job is at a consignment store where we have all kinds of designer brands for very reasonable prices. Are there designer clothes/purses/sunglasses that you desire/love? (Give some indication as to your "style" as well. For example, do you like bohemian-style frocks in lavender? Crossbody purses in black? Sunglasses that are round and bug-like?) I realize that we had a similar question in the ?aire, but I need you Witchee-s to list at least 5 items, each ranging $20 and under from Amazon.com or Walmart.com. In the meantime, let me know what you like to do on the Internet to kill time. Flash games? What are your daily websites/blog visits, or favorite YouTube videos? WoW. And what are your favourite characters from your fandoms? Ten. <3 My Little Pony... Cute or meh? Cute. Lip balm - tube or tin? Tube. Would you like to receive a journal or sketchbook? How about other pretty paper goods like post-its, notepads, bookmarks, letter paper/envelopes? I love stationery! Are you interested in audiobooks? If so, any specific titles? Yes! I only own a few, but they make traffic more fun. Bar soaps with some scrubby bits, yes or no? No bar soaps. Do you need any small electronic gadgets like flash drives and the like? Not really. Would you like a pair of knitted socks? Yes! Do you have any use for knitted dishcloths, facecloths, etc, especially if they were fandom related? Not really. Do you subscribe to any sample boxes, and if so, which ones? Would you like to receive some samples? I don't, but I love samples. Do you have a problem with nudes??? If not, do you prefer male or female? Why would I? No preference. Paintbox Soapworks: Interested in anything from her? No bar soaps, thanks! Are there any other e-tailers you're desperately wanting to try? if so, any specific items/scents/etc? I'm always curious about sugar scrubs. ThinkGeek: anything interesting to you on there? It's a dangerous place. What's one thing you want, right now, that you're having difficulty finding? My sanity.

Straight up Luden's Cherry Cough Drops. It hugs close to the skin, but it's comforting in a strange way.

Wet: Bazooka Joe single note. It's perfectly sweet and powdery. Drydown: Softly vanilla-ed bubblegum. Dry: Disappeared. Overall: I was fascinated by my sudden desire to collect Bazooka Joe comics again. Thankfully, it passed as this faded into the aether.

This scent quickly turns sharp, medicinal, and herbal green on my skin. The heavy parsley cloud hangs on for ten minutes before sharing the limelight with a soft, blooming jasmine. It's an odd combination, but eventually the jasmine wins out and the verdant notes die off.

Bottle: Peanut buttery toffee popcorn. Wet: Light, fluffy popcorn kernels with movie theater butter. Mmm... Drydown: Slightly sweet, a little plasticky, but overall mostly still popcorn. Dry: Vacillates between popcorn and a soft delicious sweet musk. If I could shoo away the popcorn... Overall: I was really hoping for more cotton candy on my skin. I'm not a foodie, but I could totally go for some cotton candy in liquid magic BPAL form. We all have our limitations, right? Don't tell on me.

Bottle: Crisp apple, slightly sweet. Wet: Slightly tart apple, with something hollow resonating underneath. Drydown: As it warms, that hollow thing morphs into caramel sticky sweetness. Dry: This smells exactly like the bag of Brach's candy corn that I regretfully consume every Halloween. Overall: A foodie lover's dream. Not for me.

On my skin, CvC is all lemon with a dusting of soft pepper. It is interesting, but it's not really me.

Luperci 2011: Bottle: Mmm, vetiver with a touch of sweetness. Wet: Soft, musky, slightly animalistic. This is sort of how I imagine a clean satyr would smell. Drydown: As it dries, Luperci '11 gains a honey drenched woods undertone as if it were embracing a lovely captured nymph. Dry: A sexy dappled patch of forest ground (without the loam I detest so much). Verdict: Luperci 2011 is a little gentler than the previous incarnations I have tested, but I adore it.

I just checked out and it seems to be working now.

Bottle aged since release. Wet: Coconut and soft aquatic florals. Drydown:At this stage, my SO came in and asked if I was"drinking Mexican cocoa." Nope, quite a morph! Dry: Soft and chocolatey, not really my thing. It is very pretty, but a little too foody on my skin for some reason.

#8 In the bottle, this blend smells like crushed Sweet Tarts. On my skin, it melds into this delicious honeyed tobacco with a touch of non-foody sweetness. It smells like nothing else I have ever tried.

Soft, sweet, floral. I usually find freesia to be overpowering, but Nymphia is delightfully feminine without the unpleasantness I usually find in florals. After it dries down, Nymphia is predominantly apple blossom with hints of white rose. I would definitely classify this as a spring scent.

Soft, dry woods, with sweet vanilla overtones. At first, I catch hints of something ferally musky, almost like vetiver, but not quite. After five minutes, the scent slips into a sweet, powdery phase over the wood base. After an hour, it has faded to a whisper, but it is soft, woodsy and unisex. I never heard anything from my dreaded nemesis rose on this one, thankfully.

Wet: Foul, rotting odor, mixed with wet vomit. Hard pressed not to wash this off! Drydown: As it dries, it seems to be mixed with aquatic cologne-type notes. It's genteel and ethereal, but there's still that scary opener lingering about. Dry: Unchanged. Overall: It sounded like something I might love, but it completely failed on my skin.

Beautiful, crisp snow, juniper and pine. It has mysterious undertones, very much like the forest in Mononoke Hime that an earlier reviewer compared it to... This very nearly was sent to a massive eBay destash. I am so glad I took the chance to retest this as I adore it!

Wishlists Amazon Universal Wishlist BPAL Etsy 09/19 Do you read/like fantasy? What kind of books or authors do you love? Which one would you like to read? Would you like gifts related to it? Yes! I am currently hooked on China Mieville, but I adore Neil Gaiman and Octavia Butler too. Soaps : do you like them? What brands? What scents? Anything you're dying to try? Not really - they tend to dry my skin. 09/18 Who likes hair toys, and if so what kind? Thin headbands without teeth are nice. I currently have a pixie cut, so I don't have much to work with. Does any art we may send need to be child safe, either in the actually safe sense or the non X-rated sense? Not at all! In the knitted/crocheted things area, would you want wrist warmers, 1/2 gloves, a neck warmer(the kind that pretty much just goes around your neck and maybe fastens instead of being long and loose like a scarf), slippers, or hats? Little slippers or slipper socks are always nice. How do you feel about altered/recycled/upcycled items of clothing or accessories? Sure. Is there anything you want from the Violette Market update? What is your favourite habitat and climate to live in? How about to visit? (ie. forest, canyons, mountains, by the beach; temperate, tropical...) Mountains and desert. What do you wish you could make/craft if you had the know-how and supplies? Specifically, which particular items? Is there anything you would like from Conjure Oils general catalogue or the new updates that isn't already on your wishlist? I've never tried their stuff. Am I alone in this, or is there a Book Fair/Comic Con scent you're dying to get your paws on, too? The Elephantine Colossus and The White Lady of Durand Eastman Park. Anyone need address/phone type books? Nope, thank you! 09/17 Are there any particular movies, tv shows or cd's that you've been meaning to buy for years but just never got round to getting? Would you mind a gently used dvd/cd if your witch had it or could get it?? I have been meaning to get another copy of Kore-Eda's Afterlife, but never get around to it. Used or burned would also be fine. Is there anything from the Possets' Hallowe'en update you're lusting after? Possets always smells like pickles on my skin, so no thank you. Would you like a custom/altered toy either from a seller or from your witch (like My Little Pony, or a Barbie or any particular toy that can be changed?) No, thank you. Do you like the candy apple, candy corn or pumpkin spice kisses? The first sounds foul, but the latter two sounds interesting. Anne Taintor, anyone? Pass. Which web comics do you enjoy? Questionable Content and kawaiinot! 09/16 If I were to knit a scarf, would you prefer a skinny one, or a wide one? A short one, that when wrapped once around your neck will just tuck under your jacket, or a long one, at least to your waist? Wide and long are my normal preferences, but I'd be open to new things. I adore scarves. Don't like scarves? Would a rectangular shawl or triangular shawl be more to your taste? Nope, scarves! How do you feel about recipes? I would love recipes! What kind of a cook/baker are you? I love to cook and bake. I try to adapt things to make them healthier, though. Are you happiest calling for delivery or microwaving a lean cuisine, Or will Food Network be asking you to host their new program? If I could ninja up my skills, I think Food Network might have a place for me. If I send you something home made would you like the recipe for it? Please! If you are someone who doesn't want baked goods sent, would you like a collection of some of my favorite recipes? That would be awesome! How about home made mixes or kits? Kind of like the cookie in a jar thing, where you would need to add the perishable ingredients? Sure! if you are a tea lover, what are your flavor preferences? Green? Black? Herbal (I know, technically those are NOT teas, but tisanes)? Flavored blacks/greens? Green, black and herbal tisanes are all good, but please stay away from the flavored teas. 09/15 How do you feel about silly, funny knick-knack, dollar store stuff, stickers, magnets etc? Would you like receiving that kind of stuff or rather not? No, thank you. Is there a specific book you've been wanting to get but haven't found the time or the opportunity to? Do you read mangas/watch animes? Which ones? Do you have a particular favourite? Would you like to receive mangas or anything related to them? I do. I have a weakness for shojo (Watase Yu), but I have watched darker stuff too. If you have something to recommend, I'm always open. Are you open to receiving things that are not on your wishlist, maybe something your Witch thinks you might like? Of course! If you have something on a wishlist that we could craft INSTEAD of buying, though it might not end up identical to the wishlist thing, would it be okay to craft it instead? Obviously we don't want to copy anyone else's design, but if we can replicate the flavour or intent that you like without stepping on toes? Sure! OK, I know that lots of folks love socks. Do you have a preference of length? Materials? Patterns? Any length really. I like light weight materials like cotton and bamboo. Patterns are awesome too (weakness for argyle). How do people feel about word magnets? I love the idea, but the clutter they make of the fridge really pisses me off as it turns out. If you could have any costume, or if you aren't into costumes, necklace or other accessory, from any movie character, what would it be? How do you feel about samples/decants of things other than BPAL? Soap slices, lotion/scrub/shower gel decants, single use make-up/beauty products, etc. Sure, as long as they are labeled. What are you guys going to be aiming for in the Inquisition? Or do you just plan on ordering individual items? I ran a circle, so I am good here. 09/14 Chocolate or other types of candy? Sure, but keep in mind it is hot here well into October. For tea drinkers, do you prefer loose leaf or tea bags? Loose. If you would enjoy something of a knitted persuasion, do you have a preference on type of thing? Since making a scarf for someone who has 10 might be a smidge excessive? Also, how do people feel about shawls? I love scarves, but I could really use a new pair of dark gloves (black or very dark grey). Is there a TV, movie or literary character that you are a lot like, or would like to be like? Is there anything you need for your kitchen, ie measuring cups, spoons, grater, etc? I'm starting all over, so actually yes. Sadly, I need just about everything now. Music, Do you prefer Live or Studio? Edited or explicit? Either way. If you are an animal lover, is there a specific type/breed that you love most? My adorable kitties. Also flowers and plants- If you like flowers/plants, do you have a favorite(s)? I love magnolia flowers, but for the most part, my desert baby brain doesn't think about plants or flowers too often. Do you have a favorite quotation? Song lyric? Book passage? WhateverthehecktheycalltheanonymousregionalwisdomthingiePROVERB! that word. "Closing your eyes isn't going to change anything. Nothing's going to disappear just because you can't see what's going on. In fact, things will be even worse the next time you open your eyes. That's the kind of world we live in, Mr. Nakata. Keep your eyes wide open. Only a coward closes his eyes. Closing your eyes and plugging up your ears won't make time stand still." - Murakami Haruki, Kafka on the Shore What is a bpal scent that you've been dying to try for awhile but just can't find? (A scent where even a tester would do) Spanked. I know, hahahaha. Let's say, hypothetically speaking, that you have some children/spawn (1 or more), and, hypothetically speaking, your witch would like to spoil them a little but knows nothing of kids these days. What do they like or dislike? Also is there anything a (sane) adult might think they would like that you don't think is appropriate for whatever reason? (I'm thinking of things like temp tattoos, make up, things that make noise, or anything else that might be bad for non-obvious reasons.) Not applicable. Is there anything you would like that can be delivered over the internet? Things like fanfic recs, cat macros, mp3s you are looking for, how-to or amusing videos, things like that? Any of these things are neat. What would your last meal be if it could be anything in the world (sky is the limit, drinks too, the whole shebang) NaNoWriMo? I have always want to, but it is a bad time of year for me to do it. 09/13 What interests you from the latest lab update? It's mostly too foody, but I ran a circle, so no worries there. How do you feel about stationery, like nice pens or notepaper? And if you're in favor, do you prefer classic/contemporary or cutesy stuff? I love fine point pens, especially blue, and stationery. I prefer classic, clean styles, but I do have a weakness for kawaii (and I am out too). Would you like homemade preserves (e.g. marinated vegies, pickled onions, chilli jam?) I think that this is cool! If you've got stuff on your BPAL wishlist, would partial bottles be okay? Yes, but my wishlist is pretty crazy. I'd be happy to try anything you like. Partials are ALWAYS fine. Would you like something you have to make yourself? Maybe. I do love projects, but I don't know any knitting crafts, so I am not sure what this could be. Say you were my witchee, and I found things on your wishlist that I could totally make. Would you want me to make it? Or would you rather it be purchased for you? Make it! Awesome! Who is your favorite soap etailer? Currently Haus of Gloi, Voda and Magic Hands Workshop (Salt bars only). Villainess uses too many chemicals for my tastes. What about vintage decoration items, teacups, etc etc? No thanks. With regards to your gifts, would you prefer your presents' awesomeness evenly spread out (several packages of pretty terrific things) over the round or a slow build-up of awesomeness (going up from pretty cool things to something super-duper cool at the end) to go out with a bang? Do you have a preference? Whatever my witch desires. What kind of make-up do you wear? What colors? Is there anything you'd like to try but haven't yet? I wear a lot of loose pigments in neutrals and metallics, but I am fairly open to colors and own quite a bit. I would like to try Aromaleigh and Fyrinnae. Who would be on your top 5 (IE famous people you'd date/have relations with ) Do you crave many Ecards and contact or are you okay with little contact from your Witch? It's nice to know you're out there, but I am totally open to whatever you want to do. Do you have a place where you list all the BPAL you have or have tried? I've tried, but I never am good about keeping up with it. Do you like maple sugar candy? Yes! What is your position on the chocolate & bacon flavor combination? Intrigued. I need to get my hands on that Vosges bar. If you are a tea-drinker do you need a tea-cozie for your pot? I don't have a tea pot any more. I really need one. And a mobile tea press. Go to your spice cabinet, what are the three most used spices? Ancho chile, chipotle and chinese five spice. Microsoft or Apple? Microsoft because I don't really want to rebuy all my software. Where was your last vacation? What did you like most? New Orleans last January (even though I technically went for an interview). I really loved poking around in all the local shops and talking to the natives. Would you appreciate receiving handwritten letters and/or postcards (anonymous or not)? How about sending them? Yes and yes! I adore postcards like you wouldn't believe. I love getting mail. Do you hate any food things with a passion?? Beets and baby corn. Would you be opposed to receiving a digital version (via email) of a magazine you like but don't subscribe to...you know, in the interest of saving a tree? Not at all. 09/12 Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to go to last.fm immediately and create an account! Download the scrobbler! Link us to your account! If you reject this assignment, maybe just tell us what your mp3 player says you listen to a lot? I've had one for ages. You can find it here. Any countries you're interested in? Italy. Would you enjoy homemade bath products (bath salts, fizzies, etc.) and/or linen sprays? Esp. if scented with some of your favorite BPAL scents? That would be awesome. I might go for aquatics or light florals and musks in the bath. Linen sprays maybe gentle sleepy scents like Somnus and TKO or something clean, and crisp, like Dirty. If you witch made you something and it didn't come out just right, would you still want it? Yes! Are you a foodie? I am a foodie in that I love to cook and drool over food porn, but not in the scent department. Any sports fans in the house? What's your favorite sport/team/player? For holidays, do you decorate? Would you like decorative stuff, weenie or otherwise? If so, do you lean towards the elegant, the crafty/folksy, or the more, erm, campy? I do normally, but I'm renting a room right now so I can't. Do you like journals/notebooks/sketchbooks? I do, but I have too many already. 09/11 Cake truffles? If YES! Cake/icing/chocolate type? They look tasty, but it's still too hot in Phoenix to get this kind of stuff in the mail. Are you interested in mini bottles(under 100ml for hand luggage) of bath and body products? Sure, as long as they fall in my usage parameters (No SLS, parabens or funny stuff) and are clearly labeled. Vampire shows, literature, etc? Yay or nay? Yes, but I won't watch/read crappy stuff just for vampires. If you play console video games, what game systems do you have and what games would you love to have? I used to, but now I only have my PC. How do you all feel about flowers and plants? Flower and plant seeds? Drawings of flowers or plants? Pressed flowers? I love the, but I am not really in a place to utilize them at the moment. How do you feel about marzipan? I have never had it. If you could have 3 BPAL bottles fall (gently) out of the sky right this second that you've been looking for or pining for - which 3 would they be? Are there any international treats that you love and have a hard time finding? Real maple sugar candy and tim tams. Is there anything from the 'Ween BPTP update that you would like but haven't ordered for yourself? The shirts, but they are kinda spendy and I will order them myself if I can find the money. If you are a crafter, would you like to receive supplies from your witch (beads, fabric, yarn/roving etc?) I am the anticraft. Find your iPod (or other MP3 device), put it on shuffle/random. What are the first five songs to come up? Soundtracks you'd like? If you could see one concert right now, who would it be? 09/10 Would you like a bag of dried Honeycrisp apples? Would I ever! I adore dried fruit. If you were to receive a knitted item (such as a scarf, hat, etc), what colors would you like? And do you have any sensitivies/allergies to any materials? My favorite color is green, but I have a great green and brown scarf already. I wouldn't mind a scarf in the blue palette though. I could also use a new pair of soft black or dark grey gloves. No known fiber allergies. Gift Certificate: physical or email? Physical, but again, I would rather you pick something. Favorite Yankee Candles? Or other brands scents? I don't much dig Yankee, but I would be open to other more natural candle brands. Would you like a zuni animal fetish? And if so, what animal? I think they are awesome, but I don't have a lot of space for small things, as I am in transition. And how does everyone feel about glow in the dark radishes? Not for me! What places to do you visit that you'd like a gift card to? Starbucks, Target, Wal-Mart, B&N, a favorite restaurant or clothing shop? I spend far too much time in Barnes and Noble and Target. I feel like GCs are so impersonal, though. Cake or Frosting? Cake. I thought this question was supposed to be "Cake or Death?" 09/09 What movie scared the bejeezus out of you as a child? Fire in the Sky. Still a little freaked out by aliens to this day. Name a couple of sites you frequent other than this one Do you like the Muppets? Which is your favorite? Beaker and the Swedish Chef. Bork bork! If you could have any creature (real or imaginary) as a pet, what would it be? Comfort Rereads?: Neil Gaiman's American Gods. Will you be going out of town during the round, or is there any other time during the round when it would not be ideal for you to receive a package from your witch? Not that I know of yet. If you are in school now, what classes are you taking? Does anything you are currently studying really interest you? (if you are not in school, is there anything you are trying to learn?) I am working on a Master's in Education now. I am doing it crazy accelerated, so my classes change every five weeks or so. Everything interests me. I am such a crackhead for learning. What animal would your daemon be? Alternately, your patronus. It would probably be a raven, but I could see it as a cheeky sparrow sometimes as well. What's YOUR favorite word? Squee. Steampunk, yay or nay? If yay, what part appeals most? Definitely yay. I love the hybridization of modern with sexy Victorian. Drool. 09/08 Do you have a special symbol or totem that is meaningful to you? Do you need a box for your bpal bottles? Your imps? Your something else to put in a box stuff? I have several (*cough* ten*cough*) tea chests of BPAL bottles, but no real good place for imps. Mostly I just recycle imps into decant circle packages. I don't really need anything like this. If you could be any person, being, or animal from Fantasy what or who would you be? If you could go back to any point in time, where, when, why? Favorite Halloween Candy I occasionally indulge in candy corn, but the avoidance of HFCS makes it hard for me to find it and still have it be tasty. What are your favorite baked goods/homemade treats? Biscotti, cookies and zucchini bread, but I am really open to trying anything you want to send my way. Would you be interested in an astrology birth chart? Not really. Jarvenpa did one for me a few years ago, and it was interesting, but I don't really believe in that sort of thing. 09/07 Socks? Anyone? Oh, yes! I love Sockdreams. My favorite socks are bamboo or other lightweight blends. I don't like artificial fibers as much because they make my feet itchy. Would you like custom icons as a gift? I think that this is a neat idea. Comfort when feeling yucky, depressed, or in pain? Tea, a hot bath with oil and a book. Scary books? Definitely. Scary movies? Yes, but I prefer my gore campy. COMIC BOOKS. Do you read them? Are there any series you like, or some you would like to try? Yes! I would really like to read Irredeemable, but I am open to whatever you want to show me. Warm drinks? Espresso, tea and coffee in that order, though I do also enjoy mulled wine and cider when it cools off. What would the name of your custom blend be? The description? 09/06 When you go to an etsy wishlist, it will tell you what things are sold. If you click on the sold item, sometimes it will give options that are similar to what was sold, but not identical. How picky are you? My wishlists give you an idea of what I like. Not picky! Make up? Yes, though I prefer more natural makeup. I've wanted to try Fyrinnae and Aromaleigh, but haven't had the chance. More shades of eye makeup are always welcome. Disney movies, Yay or Nay, and favourites if you do like them? Do you have A VCR, DVD Player or Blue Ray or a combo of the three? DVD, but I will have a Blue Ray soon. Do you prefer your DVD widescreen or formatted? Widescreen. Ceramics? No. My kitties tend to break these things. Knitted things? I adore scarves and socks! 09/05 Favorite Snack? Edamame, pickled ginger or veggie chips. Nail Polish: Yes, but big three free. I tend to use Zoya exclusively. What hobby/craft would you like to learn how to do? I'd like to learn soap making and have bought a couple of books, but haven't gotten the space. I really want to expand into lotion, but for some reason I feel like I should start with soap. For those who decorate for Halloween, do you prefer cute decorations or creepy ones? Both! How do you feel about mortars and pestles? I've always wanted one for spices. Is there anything you have a phobia of, or that would make you go "squick" if you saw it in a package? Beets. 09/04 Girly Index: Unabashedly so. I am a fully recovered tomboy. Soft/plushy things Adore the little plushie microbes from Thinkgeek. I want to eventually put some in the guest bathroom. Hehe. Jane Austen? Yes, books and movies. Do you read Tarot cards? If not, would you be interested? Nope. eBooks Yep. I love my Nook! I still read paper books too, though. Guilty TV pleasure WCG Ultimate Gamer and The Colony. Cosplay/costume I have always wanted to go Goth Loli, but haven't gotten around to it. Any cool steampunky pieces are always appreciated, as I can always use more of those. Harry Potter house Ravenclaw with Slytherin leanings. Alan Rickman, David Tennant, the Winchester Boys? Yes, yes, no. Scented Tarts: I don't have a tart warmer any more, but I used to love Alternative Breeding soy tarts. Maybe I will get one again. Lip Balms? Yes, but I am fairly picky. I like Korres usually, but I recently discovered that Zoya's lip glosses are awesome too. Body Mods: Earrings only. Stupid professional dress codes. Booze? Yes. I love red wines, dark beers, vodka and rum, though I am always open to new things. What is your favorite artist or art style? 09/03 T-Shirt/PJ size Medium crew usually, but sometimes XL babydolls work too when they're not too tight in the shoulders. I also like large girly tanktops as Phoenix is hot! I typically buy medium pajamas. I need to get new Sugar Skull jammies this year from Target. The two pairs I got in 2008 are starting to look a bit too well-loved. Mix CDs I love them! I think that they're a great way to be exposed to new music. Hallowe'en plans? I am going to be a steampunked Amelia Earhart. I assume we'll be hitting some parties, but having just moved here, I don't know much else yet. 09/02 Baked Goods? Sure! I love biscotti and cookies the most, but I won't turn down anything my witch wants to send my way! Family Prezzies? Not necessary, but the kitties always appreciate your love too. Bottles/lots of little samples? Either one, really. I don't use imps often, but I find if they don't work for me, I can easily regift them. Social Networking Livejournal, Facebook and Twitter, all linked in my signature. Groupons or similar deals/gift certificates? I adore Groupon, but I've had problems with Restaurant.com in my area.

It's pure, sweet white chocolate on my skin, but it disappears in five minutes without a trace.

Wet: Wet leaves and sweet pear with hints of soft muskiness. Drydown: It reminds me of a gentler Falling Leaf Moon (2009). As it dries, HM 2007 is soft and creamy. Oh, delicious. Dry: Gentle, sweet musk. Disappears within two hours. Overall: This one hugs tightly to the skin. I wish it lasted longer, though.

Warm, pine and resin wrapped in red musk. As Lucy, Kissed dries, she morphs into a sharp, green powdery scent. Oh, how roses loathe me. Sadness.

Wet: Warm spices and freshly crushed sage. Drydown: As it dries, Vespillo goes really green on my skin. It's sweet and almost grassy. Dry: Warm and musky, but rather subdued after an hour has passed. It still has tinges of sweetness, but at this point I can't pick out notes. Overall: Dry stage is very nice, but I wish it had retained more of the delicious spicy sage of the initial application.