Switch Witch 2015
I'll update this post throughout the round with answers to the questions in the Switch Witch thread!
Pumpkin?
No pumpkin for me please! I don't like actual pumpkin, pumpkin pie, pumpkin spice, PSL.. I don't like pumpkin scents or pumpkin flavor (real or artificial). I don't really like orange for decorating, even for Halloween, but I do like pumpkin shaped decor if it's in metallic or neutral colors or made of natural looking materials like wood or fabric. Pumpkin shaped edibles are also great!
Booze?
Probably not a good idea for International mailing or customs.. Which is fine because I'm not a big drinker anyway. I enjoy the occasional glass of wine or a light, fruity beer but that's it.
Yellowstone?
I don't collect any souvenirs but HUCKLEBERRY, always yes. I have very fond memories of huckleberry picking (and eating) as a child. Would love jam, syrup, preserves, BPAL/BPTP. Just know that if there are any huckleberry things in the Weenies that I will have bought it instantly for myself.
For those of you who don't drink alcohol, can you specify if you live with any drinkers or ever have alcohol on hand for guests, vs. abstaining and preferring not to have it around at all?
I drink occasionally, but not enough to keep much on hand. I still have beers that I bought myself a month ago.. Friends usually bring their own favorite drinks when they come over, and we have enough that people have given us to last us a long time.
Are you a fan of the TV show Penny Dreadful?
Never heard of it. I mostly just watch Netflix or shows that get recommended to me.
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?
Coffee isn’t for me – I can't really do caffeine.. it just makes me jittery and emotionally unstable. So no black teas, green teas, white teas, etc. I do drink herbal teas and rooibos teas, which are both caffeine free. I’m into peppermint and chamomile. Not a huge fan of licorice or cinnamon. I definitely love trying new kinds though.. if you have local teas that you love, please send them along!! Loose or bagged is great. Hot cocoa is delicious, but I don’t do cider. I mentioned this in my questionnaire but please also make sure there are no artificial flavors, colors, sweeteners, etc. – thank you! I’ve got all the gadgets I need. I don’t like DAVIDsTEA – most of them have artificial flavors. I haven’t tried many brands other than the big ones, so whatever small, local ones you come across would be so awesome!
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?
Sarcastic, dry, ironic, self-deprecating, witty. Love puns, love play on words even more. Moderately dirty. I LOVE George Carlin, Amy Poehler, Chelsea Peretti, and Iliza Schlesinger.
Do you like board games? If so, which ones? Traditional or more unique? (like Settlers of Catan, Small World, Red Dragon Inn, etc)
Yes! Love board games. I recently got Codenames which is a new one this year that I HIGHLY recommend to everyone. It’s perfect for all levels of gamer (even people who say they hate board games) and really fun with larger groups – everyone that I’ve played it with loved it. Just ordered both editions of Exploding Kittens so I'm good on that front. We also have Three Cheers for Master and all of the editions of Hive. Munckins is a big hit around here too. We have the original (with expansions 4-5 but we could use 2, 3, 6, 7, 8) and we also have Munchkin Quest (and Munchkin Quest 2), and Munchkin Zombies (we have all of the expansions). I've never played Cards Against Humanity but I'd be up for trying it! We don’t really have the patience for those epic games that take a lot of time to set up, teach, and play. That being said, if you think you might know something I'd love, give it a shot! I'll always try new things out. I also LOVE puzzles. I’ve done a few of the Eurographics ones recently and I love those because they have non-typical piece shapes. Ones I already have: The Kiss (Der Kuss) by Gustav Klimt, Sunset on the Pacific Coast, and Canoes on the Lake (I like their landscape photographs). The top one on my wishlist is the Eurographics version of Portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer I, 1907 by Gustav Klimt (I had so much fun putting together the other one of his that I have!) and after that probably their Starry Night by Vincent Van Gogh.
Is there anything that you specifically do NOT want to receive?
Anything with artificial fragrance/flavor/color/sweeteners, skincare, cosmetics, nail polish, bath & body & hair things (other than BPTP stuff, that's always welcome). I probably wouldn't get much use out of any of those things. Thanks for understanding!
Plain or fun socks?
Either! I like soft, comfy ones for lounging around. Just no toe socks please.
Name one (or as many as you would like) thing you would like to learn more about?
Pretty much ANYTHING! I love to hear about what other people are into. Surprise me!
What one thing you would like to do more of?
Travel probably!
What are some things that fascinate you?
Science, humanity, psychology, social media, nature. It doesn't take much to fascinate me..
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)?
Never tried it. I'm not sure that it would be my thing, but I would definitely give it a shot.. as long as it was just basic whole food ingredients.
Is there any particular piece (or pieces) of art (painting, photograph, etc) that speaks to you in some way?
I don't have any particular pieces I like but I do love art that is more of a social commentary and has some aspect of irony or paradox - think Banksy's graffiti, or movies like Fight Club, TV shows like Black Mirror, etc. I like dystopian and fantasy/sci-fi because it takes me to the edge of certain features of humanity in a really interesting way.
What kinds of things would you like from the Lilith BPAL or BPTP update (or are you joining a decant circle?)
Hmm.. nothing from the BPAL Liliths - none of them really spoke to me. From BPTP I have a couple I like.. but I'm pretty sure I'll just add a bottle or two to my Weenie order. I would not say no to backups of The Worst Pillow though!
Do you want to receive 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?
Would love either! I am absolutely OBSESSED with these Outlander inspired fingerless gloves that Claire wears in the show (I am also obsessed with the show itself - can't wait for the next season). I could use some boot cuffs! I prefer infinity scarves or cowls to regular scarves. Hats are tricky, but the newsboy style seems to work best on me. I think I have a few things on my Etsy favorites. I mostly wear neutral colors so grey is ideal, but I also like navy and muted, dusty blues and purples. I tend to like solid colors rather than multicolored pieces. Up for anything else at your discretion, whatever you think I might like.
Would you like anything from Lush?
No, thank you! Lush is not for me at all.
I have really sensitive skin so I don't use much of anything in the bath. I do sometimes use BPTP bath oil on my skin after I get out. Also if you have a brand that you like, I'd love any salts, fizzy things, melts.. as long as there are no artificial fragrances (fragrance, parfum on the label), dyes, or irritating ingredients. Basically if you can read and understand the ingredients without a chemistry degree, I can probably use it!
Do you prefer hand-made or store-bought?
Either! I'll be so happy with anything. I also have been trying to support smaller, independent companies who use really great natural ingredients, so if there are any local brands you like I'd be happy to try them out!
SPICY! Scale of 1 to 10, with 1 being "oh, that's a bit too much black pepper for me" and 10 being "ghost pepper? scorpion pepper? I laugh at these! I love as much heat as you can throw my way!" Where are you?
Probably 6-7. I like heat but not so much that my taste buds burn off.
What is your BPAL "Holy Grail"?
I don't really have one.. I like variety and much prefer trying new things. Links to my favorites, the bottles I have, and every scent I've tried are in my signature!
Analog or Digital? Or Both?
Mostly analog, but digital is good too. I don't have an e-reader but I have a smartphone that I sometimes use to read on my commute.
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've had my hands (and drawers) full with just BPAL/BPTP so I'm good on other companies! I tend to stick to one brand for most things because I like having uniformity and it keeps shopping simple.
Do you have an affinity for any specific animals?
Pandas, mostly the cute cartoon ones!
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?
We have a small kitchen and I like to keep things simple so I'll say no on the gadgets. We have most of the typical North American/European spices but if there are some interesting local or other international blends you love, I'd be happy to try anything!
Makeup! Do you like it, would you want some? If so what brands do you like to wear?
I do wear and love makeup, but since I have sensitive skin I'm pretty picky about brands. My favorites are Red Apple Lipstick and Alima Pure. I do have some Bite Beauty things and some stuff from Shiro. Loose minerals with basic ingredients are usually okay. As always, if you have any indies or local things that you think I might like, send away! I usually wear very neutral colors like taupes, greys, and muted purples on the eyes and dusty mauves, plums, and roses on my lips and cheeks.
Chocolate fiends ahoy! What kind of chocolate do you like? Do you like any other things in it or just plain good ole chocolate?
I LOVE chocolate. Pretty much any kind.. milk, white (probably my favorite), dark. I love it all. I'll try almost any flavor, filling, mix. Except banana, I really don't like banana flavored things. Also please no artificial flavors/colors (and please no "sugar free" chocolates with artificial sweeteners - they upset my stomach..).
Would you be opposed to receiving a ton of Halloween themed items?
We're not huge on decorating with Halloween stuff and I'm not a fan of the mass produced disposable knick knack thing.. but Halloween themed consumables or wrapping, sure! And I'm always up for handmade things from small local businesses or if you're crafty and want to make something go for it!
What are your favorite fandoms and do you want to receive anything related to such?
Well.. Veronica Mars obviously, Sherlock (BBC - my SO is very jealous of the Cumberbatch, and rightly so..), Mad Men (specifically Joan.. I love her style and that pen necklace that she wears is adorable), Lord of the Rings, Harry Potter. I probably lean more towards wearables and functional things for swag: T-shirts (probably a size large), keychains, mugs, accessories, etc. or anything else you see that's awesome - I like minimalist art too and I love the really witty, sarcastic quotes.
What are you planning to order from the Weenies update?
Ordered Second Spring and Dead Leaves, Bourbon Vanilla, and Myrrh. I think that's it for me for the BPAL update but I'm patiently waiting for BPTP goodies so I can order my Liliths. I'm open to trying anything you think I might like though if you have decants you want to pass on.
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!)
I've never been to a Renaissance Faire and have no idea what wares might be sold at such things. Use your best judgement, dear Witch. I don't like huge amounts of clutter but I have a couple boxes for little treasures if there's something that catches your eye! Consumables are always great too.
Do you like comics or graphic novels? Any issues or collections you want to read?
Not much of a comic reader.
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've never sought it out myself but I'd definitely be open to reading anything if my Witch likes to write!
Where do you have wishlists at? If you could please link to them or to a post that links to them. (Amazon, Etsy, Think Geek, Pinterest, Sephora, Lush, BPAL/BPTP, Soap Box Company, everywhere and anywhere!)
All of my wishlists are in my signature, on the blog, or in the spreadsheet. And they're all up to date!
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'm into greys, black, navy, or muted jewel tones like a dusty mauve kind of color. Think neutrals. I like either solid colors or only 2-3 colors. Not super into the multicolor thing. I do like the different details and more complicated knitted patterns but nothing super frilly and no tassles or fringe.
Would you rather receive a bunch of little packages through the round, a couple of medium packages, or one big package at the end?
I'll leave this up to my Witch's discretion!
Would Witchees like something from IKEA? (Or any other not always accessible by everyone store?)
We got a ton of Ikea stuff when we moved recently so I'm set on this! I do love things from small, independent companies, especially ones that aren't local.
If/when you go to the mall, for which store(s) do you beeline?
I usually head to Banana Republic - I get all of my work clothes from there and I'm new to the office environment so I'm still building my work wardrobe. Other than for clothing, I mostly shop online now.
I also have a question: Do you receive any subscription boxes (julep, lootcrate, ipsy, birchbox, etc.)?
I don't. I haven't found one I'd like and I'm usually pretty picky with skincare/makeup/haircare/bath & body because I have sensitive skin.
Do you like tarts/candles/incense? If so, what type of scents?
I'm not huge into tarts or candles - B&BW scents and those types of fragrance heavy brands always give me a headache. We usually burn unscented tea lights in an oil warmer but I have lots of those stocked up. I'm hoping that someday the Post will do tealights.. I'd be all over that! Incense I do like and prefer natural scents (essential oils). I like warm scents like sandalwood, vanilla, amber. Open to other types too though!
Is there anything you wish you could have picked up from the Dragon*Con exclusives?
Nope, I got most of the ones I was really interested in but I'm always up for trying decants of anything.
Is there a GC you've been dying to try but haven't got around to yet?
I've tried most of the ones I was really curious about, but there are a few that I'd just like to test and see what they smell like - those are on my wishlist. Especially curious about a couple of unimpables though: Iole, Sachs, and The Last Unicorn in particular. Even a tiny bit of those would be awesome.
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?
Any metallic jewelry is great. Colors I tend to keep it neutral. I love the minimalist geometric metallic trend that's going on right now.
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?
We're pretty set on decorations, but if you see something you think I'd like I can always bring it to the office.
Office supplies hound? Pens, pencils, journals, any preference, or favorites?
I'm fine for most office supplies. I do love a specific type of pen that I can never find in stores. I love the fine tip of the .03mm ones and I have black, red, and blue but more colors are always welcome!
Talk to me about socks! Is there anything, dear, dear Witchee, that I can get for you from Sock Dreams? Anything from another place?
I don't have anything specific in mind but in general anything soft and comfy I like to lounge in at home. No toe socks though.
I live near a huuuuge candy store. What kind of candy do you like? Gummies? Caramel? Chocolate? Sour? Sugar-free?
Pretty much anything goes! I like gummies, caramel, chocolate, sour in moderation.. Definitely no sugar free though.. the artificial sweeteners they put in those taste awful to me. And no licorice. Other than that, surprise me!
How do you feel about animal products? Not so much animal toys or food, but more like furs, paws, bones, etc.
Not for me.
Are you interested in receiving any restaurant.com gift certificates for your area?
Nowhere in my area participates.
How do you feel about "toys" - stuffed animals and the like?
Not particularly looking for anything like that, but if something jumps out at you go for it!
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?
Yes! We had a great view from our apartment. They always make me feel so small and insignificant (which I love!) so I try to make sure I can see them. I don't put much more weight into it than that though. Definitely interested in trying the Blood Moon Eclipse scent.
Witchee's, how tall are you? And perhaps, what's your arm span (from wrist to wrist)?
5'7" and not sure about my arm span but I think it's average for my height. I mostly like my arms covered, so if it's a little longer that's totally fine.
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?
Not a strong connection to either, but I do identify with my Aquarius tendencies so probably water.
How do you feel about bentos? Is it something you would use if you were to get one?
I like the idea but I wouldn't use one - I have some glass ones I really love by LifeFactory so I'm set on food containers.
Scarves, shawls or cowls? Mittens, gloves, fingerless mitts or wristlets?
Probably cowls and fingerless gloves. I have a couple things in my Etsy wishlist, particularly the Outlander style ones because they intersect with one of my fandoms!
How do you feel about online classes? Like, say, craftsy or creativebug? Or even lynda.com?
I generally prefer to take classes in person!
What do we want from Paintbox Soapworks?
I'll pass on this one.
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?
We don't have a ton of space so smaller pieces like postcards would be great!
How do you feel about gourmet marshmallows?
I'd be up for trying them!
Hats for cats?
We don't have pets.
Are you a slatherer or a dabber?
Dabber most of the time, but occasionally at home I'll slather.
Talk to me, dear witchies, about tea. I know we've covered this a little, but I really need the nitty gritty here- not just companies you like and don't like (Teavana? Adagio? David's? Some tiny place?) but I also want to know the other stuff: top 3 flavors, loose or bagged, the kinds of tea accessories you use- or have always wanted. Be specific. Provide links if necessary.
I think I covered all of this in previous tea questions, but just in case I didn't: No caffeine please and no artificial flavors or sweeteners. I also don't like licorice. Rooibos and herbals are more my thing - I like chamomile, peppermint, and nutty/vanilla teas. Chai is nice too. Other than that pretty much anything goes - always up for trying new things! Loose or bagged is fine. I have all of the accessories I need. Indies or local to you is always appreciated. If you have any other questions feel free to ask me!
Is there anything from ThinkGeek that you want??? (especially in the geek points section, 2400 points or under?)
Nothing I see for me but my man would love this Death Star ice mold: http://www.thinkgeek.com/f0b6
Villainess
Nothing I can see that I want.
How does everyone feel about duct tape crafts? Any favorite patterns?
I think they're neat but I probably wouldn't have a use for any of them myself.
Are there any flowers you especially like?
Lilies mostly (if the profile picture didn't give it away).
Would you be interested in any cozies or cases (yarn o fabric, not hard cases) for tech stuff (phone, laptop' etc) or for cups/mugs/bottles or anything else similar.
I think I've got everything I need like that.
Would you like Halloween or Day of the Dead themed ornaments or a "bunting"?
I'm probably okay on those.
Are there witchees who would like book related gifts like a booklight, bookmark, bookseat or something for your reading gadget,like a cover or a light for example.
Bookmarks are always welcome, otherwise I'm all set!
I make handmade journals, mini albums and similar items. Would my witchee be interested in something like that?
Sure!
What songs/music/artists/CD's do you like to listen to around Halloween?
I have Spotify so I'm fine for music.
Are you interested in leg warmers at all?
I think I have enough of those.
Is your Halloween style scary, cutesy, folksy, grotesque . . .?
I don't really have a Halloween style. Definitely not grotesque though.
I bought the Portal board game last week & it came with a Portal 2 steam free download code. I already have the game on another console & it's one of my favorite series of all time. Soooo, would you want it?
No, thank you! I don't really have anything to play games on right now.
Have you read The Martian? Or do you plan on watching the movie?
I can't stand Matt Damon.. I got about an hour and a half into Interstellar before I realized he was in it and by then it was too late.. SO, this is how I feel about The Martian:
But I would read the book! If I could manage not to picture Matt Damon's face.
Honey or beeswax products? Discuss.
Yes!
Pertaining to that, how does everyone feel about such things? Will anyone be participating? How about NaNo swag, is there any you want?
I've always been in university during that but this is the first year that I think I'll join! I'm okay for swag though.
How do you feel about bumper stickers and car magnets? What do you like--cute, pretty, snarky, geeky/fandomy?
No car, so I'm good.
Do you have any phobia's that your Witch should be aware of?
Don't send me a live spider, other than that I think I can handle it!
Trading Post Weenies are live! Anything calling to you?
I just ordered Dead Leaves, Red Musk and Neroli Hair Gloss and Dead Leaves, White Musk and Vanilla Hair Gloss (I really hope I like the dead leaves note this year.. I got the Dead Leaves, Bourbon Vanilla and Myrrh perfume from BPAL too). I think I'm good otherwise. Decants of Boo HG or October Atmo would be lovely though.
Speaking of nail things, it that time of year and I am doing my jamberry order, Would you want some Lovely Jamberry's for your nails?
No thanks, I don't wear anything on my nails.
Do you like or want to try Marmite?
Probably not.
Used nail polish & cosmetics?
I don't wear nail polish and I have a select few cosmetic brands that I can use so I'll pass on this!
Are there any DISCONTINUED (not LE) BPAL oils that you wish you had, or had a little more of?
I'd like to try Jester if you have a small amount - for the huckleberry! Nothing else I can really think of, except maybe Antique Lace.
Is there anything fairly basic that you're always running out of and need to buy more of?
Not really!
Anything interest you from the recent Blooddrop update?
I'm okay, thanks! I like to limit the brands I follow to keep things easy/affordable(ish) for myself.
How to you feel about foreign spices/flavorings?
YES please, love them. Probably just spices since I can't have artificial flavors, sweeteners, or colors.
Dearest Witchee, can I get you anything from Shiro Cosmetics? I'm going to place an order soon and perhaps you are interested in some of their goodies? https://shirocosmetics.com (https://shirocosmetics.com)
I had a quick peek and I think I have everything I want from Shiro!
