Uploaded through 9/17 (answered questions in bold; updated q's in red) Questions duplicative of questionnaire deleted
Crafting ~
For the crafty people out there: would you prefer something crafted or crafting supplies? What kind? knitting needles, yarn, amazing fabric, pinking shears, cool thimbles or pincushins, jewelery making supplies, beads, etc.? NOT crafty
Who are your favorite artists/illustrators/art periods?
So, who has a store or ETSY shop or knows of a shop of a fellow BPALer that everybody needs to check out? N/A
What If ~
If you had the funds to comission an original painting for yourself, what would it be of? What would it be like- colors, size, style?
What fictional character do you most identify with and why?
Super power? Go back in time
What GC scent have you been putting off getting since it'll "always be there"? Phobos, Eclipse, Bordello (to age)
Are there any childhood shows/movies/games/books/etc. that still hold a really special place in your heart?
Do you believe we control our destiny, or does our destiny control us? We control
What one thing that is missing from your life would you like to have above all else? RL friends
What was your favouritest job ever, and why? My first paralegal job; I was so enthusiastic, and I had a terrific boss, very sweet guy
Which three albums would you take to your apocalypse bolt hole and how would you power the generator? answered on-thread
An anonymous benefactor gives you $500 (or an equivalent amount of money in your currency of choice) with the following stipulations. You must spend all of it within a week: any money left unspent must be returned. You must spend at least half of the money on yourself. You may not use it to pay off debts or bills of any kind. What do you do with the money?
This is how the world ends... zombie apocalypse, robot uprising, alien invasion, return of the elder gods... which doomsday scenario do you prefer (or make your own!)? We might get a little mercy from the elder gods!
In the year 2525... if man is still alive... what sort of future do you imagine? I suspect we'll be around, but struggling for survival due to our stupidity and failure to take care of the earth
If you found the puzzle box from Hellraiser, what would you do with it? (and would you be able to resist playing with it?) I had to research this, never having heard of the movie - not surprising considering I detest horror flicks. That said, I'd try to solve it ONLY if I didn't know what was inside. But my chances wouldn't be that good, I'm much better with mental puzzles.
Describe your ideal picnic lunch. Where would you go? Who (if anyone, and yes there can be multiple people) would accompany you? What sort of food would you take? I adore picnics! We used to go on them when I was growing up, all the time in the summer. The food is unimportant, it's the company.
Imagine that you're given a shoebox-sized time capsule, and you are asked to put any number of items in the box that symbolize who you are. The items can be may be anything you can imagine, and money is no object, but they must fit within the box. Which items do you choose?
You're given the opportunity to apprentice at any trade (or craft) of your choosing for the period of one year. Your mentor may be any currently living person. Which field of study would you choose, and who would be your mentor?
Which of the seven deadly sins is most likely to be your undoing? Sloth, no question. Greed would be a runner up.
If Beth made a perfume called "switch witch" what notes would be in it?
Food etc. ~
What's your stance on cranberries? in all forms
You're at home, or out, and you want a snack. Something that will get you through to the next meal, or through to the end of school or what ever. What do you grab? microwave popcorn
What is your favorite Candy? What candy do you hate? fruit gumdrops, good caramels; I detest black licorice
What kind of coffee do you like? not picky, but I like flavored & drink it with cream
For those of us who like chocolate, do you like anything /in/ your chocolate, like fruit, nuts, or for the more daring among us, chilies?
If I send you whole spices or coffee beans, would you be able to grind them or would you prefer them preground for your convenience? I have a coffee grinder but not a spice grinder
For the tea and coffee drinkers: Opinion on tea- and/or coffee-related accessories/etc? (Teaware, sugar crystals, infusers, tea chests, etc)
How do you take your coffee (or tea)? Black or with cream and/or sugar? Coffee with cream only. Tea plain, only in cold weather or when I'm sick.
Restaurants you'd like a gift certificate to on Restaurant.com? Anything in San Antonio; we don't go out to dinner much. Helping out the kids, y'know.
In your perfect world it is chocolate and...?
What's your favorite dessert treat? Ice cream? Cake? Pie? Fudge brownie cake with pie flavored ice cream on top? I adore custard or flan but rarely get it. Second best is vanilla ice cream with fresh strawberries.
Any cooks? Could you use anything cooking related? Aprons? Cookbooks? Measuring Cups? Recipes? Herb/Spice containers? Fancy Spices? Dish Towels? Cocktail napkins? Amazing Beaded Pot Holders? Something else?
What's your favorite candy to stock up on at Halloween?
You're in the kitchen at the end of a pay period and groceries are pretty scarce. Do you take the five ingredients you find first and make something fabulous, or do you order take out? Takeout's not an option where I live, LOL. We usually go the lazy route, sadly, and everyone fends for themselves.
Are roasted pumpkin seeds and home made chex mix the best fall snack foods, or what? Pumpkin seeds I've had haven't been very good; chex mix is ok but caramel apples are best
Whats your burger preference? Veggie,meat or ???? Grilled beef or venison burger w/onions, tomatoes, ketchup & maybe pickles, mmm
What other hot beverages everyone likes for fall? Cider if I run across some, but never make it myself
What sort of odd or regional foods do you crave? I REALLY miss lemon curd, lime curd too (harder to find). And turkey jerky (I keep trying make it, but it's tricky).Do you mind artificial colors in your food?
Are there any foreign food products that you'd love to get or to try?
Tea lovers, loose or bag?
What are your favorite fruits?
What is your favorite cookie type?
Beliefs ~
Does anyone have any symbols they consider to be personally significant or talismanic? sorry, no
Are there any Gods, Goddess, or other mythological figures of whom you're particularly fond?
How do you feel about Dia de los Muertos? Are you interested in sugar skulls? Catrina (or other) skeleton figurines? I think this is a wonderful holiday; I've never even SEEN a sugar skull, would love to get some!
Do you believe in magic (or magick, if you prefer)? What does it mean to you? I believe in miracles, more or less the same.
If I were your witch, and I wanted to make you a spell or mojo bag, would you be into that? And, if you were, would you want it for something like love, prosperity or luck? Or would you want it for a certain element? Or would you want it for something more personal- and what might that be?
Favorites n Wishes ~
Do you have a favorite poem or poet? Poetry's not my thing, HS kinda ruined it for me
Can you use pill boxes, a hard ID case, coin purse, etc? no
Any songs you are desperately into at the moment? not right now, but PLEASE feel free to expand my horizons!
What's your favorite product(s) at Trader Joe's? never been to one
Any Amy Brown art fans?
How do you feel about Halloween music? (mix CDs, what have you) LOVE it
Who else is reeeeeally looking forward to Tim Burton's Alice In Wonderland?
Is there a store that you love which does not have a location near you (but that has a physical presence somewhere, not just online? Why do you love it so much?
Could you use a 'travel' imp case? How many should it hold? have one, wait, two
What kind of socks? NOT toe socks, bleah, and not a real fan of wool, otherwise love 'em all
May I help you fill out your costuming wardrobe (assuming you costume)? Are there articles you are seeking to enhance your a) Halloween costume, Renfest attire, c) Cosplay, d) Steampunk accouterment?
Do you mind receiving used (in good condition, of course) CDs or DVDs? oh yeah!
Do you have a crush on anyone famous? Do you have a crush on any literary characters? Would you like fanfiction or fan art based on this/these people? no fanfic or fan art pls
Are there any decants from the Halloweenies, Literary Vampires, Gris Grimly, or Hellboy that you would be interested in receiving? see WL
Do you have any objections to receiving downloads? Is your internet connection fast enough for you to download large files like music easily? no & not really
Are there any songs, albums, movies, or TV shows that you can't find/haven't been released that you want? yes, I don't have cable; TV: Vampire Diaries, Warehouse 13. Movies: ? (will update). Songs: (?)
How do you scent your home: tarts, reed diffusers, BPAL, candles? tarts mostly, generally from Alternative Breeding, he's an artist with mixing scents
Are you interested in things like home remedies for ailments, cleaning solutions, etc.? no
Duct tape purses and wallets and things are pretty darned cool. Who else thinks so? not me
Who likes coloring books? meh
Do you like pinup art/images? YES! see WL
Is anyone playing this round of SW into ABJ? (asian ball jointed dolls) A beginner's interest, tried to join the forum but couldn't
Any other steampunk fans/lovers? yup, but don't think I can carry it off, maybe I'd do better w/victorian flavored? I like that a lot too, maybe a bit more
If you have a pet, what kind of gifts would be good for them? My cat loves catnip (and he's fat so anything that gets him moving is GREAT)
Do you like socks? Blankets? Wrist warmers? Arm warmers? Headband? Shawl? Or what kind of knitted thing would you love the most? a lap robe or throw kind of thing? A shawl would be cool too, but I wouldn't use it as much
Interested in locally produced products? Food, skincare or both?Olive oil? Lavender oils or soaps? YESYESYES to all but lavender anything
Does anyone in here wear a lot of dangly earrings or collect pendants of all kinds?? How about hair clips or pony tail band things?
Would a "gift" donation to one of the organizations/causes you support be a great gift, or a lame gift?
Do you like Villainess soaps? What are your favorite scents? tried 2, they didn't work very well for me
Who wants hair pretties?(headbands, barrettes, pony-o's, scrunchies, bobby pins, hair clips, etc)
If you were my witchee, would you like any of the scents/sizes that are available on clearance (candles)?
I am on an origami crane kick recently, so I wonder if anyone will be interested in origami crane earrings, origami crane in a glass vial (~1.2cm wide) phone charm/pendant or just a container filled with cranes of different sizes. not really (I really like paper stars, but even with detailed directions I can't make them!!)
How do you feel about clothing/accessories made from animals? Anti-fur, leather, shells, etc.? Does even faux wig you out? see thread
Who is musically inclined? What instruments (voice counts) do you play? Would you enjoy sheet music? not me
Anyone want a nickname and embroidered headband from PandaBite? nope
I have seen a lot of yankee candles haters...... do you or don't you, and if not, what candles do you like? this assumes you like candles. otherwise, what specific home fragrance do you use? Not my fave co., their stuff is sort of...single note? Though I'd use it happily if I got it!
Do you wear lip gloss/lip balm? If so, what flavors/scents?
Random ~
What's autumn like in your neck of the woods? What do you love and/or hate about it? There isn't any. It just gradually gets cooler. And that's what I hate. I miss autumn.
If your witch were to either write something for you or put together a collection of ghost stories, would you rather have it in writing, recorded as an oral telling, or both? Either would be a lovely personal gift
What's something you're really looking forward to in the semi-near future?
What is your favorite creepy folk story or legend?
Lolcats....yea or nay? the site is good for a laugh. The language = baby talk
As a witchee, would you prefer to have many little packages sent to you throughout the round with a not-so-big final package or fewer things throughout the round with one huge final package to seal the sweetness?
What is your idea of the perfect evening at home?
How often do you update your wishlist? every week or so?
Do you have a favorite bpal bottle art? nope, I'm into the contents
Do you have a Blu-Ray player? nope
Are you interested in things like home remedies for ailments, cleaning solutions, etc.? not really
Do sounds make you happy? What ambient noises make you smile?
What's your favorite pain-relief remedy or ritual?
When you receive your SW packages...do you like receiving things that are individually wrapped inside? or unwrapped? or both? wrapped makes me happy, but whatever works for my witch!
Of course, we're all going to be grateful no matter what our witches give us, but for the record, what is your anti-present? Tell us something that you think your future witch might give you that you absolutely, unequivocally DO. NOT. WANT. see thread
What BPAL scent have you never tried but always wanted to? What scent have you tried and LOVED, and haven't been able to get more of and why?
I know we're all scent sensitive here. What are your favorite non-perfume smells? Day in the life stuff?
What are your phobias?
What is your favourite flower (or plant)?
If you could decorate/redecorate any 1 room in your home, what would it be and how would you decorate it?
Any rabid sports fans out there? What teams do you root for? Vikings but not rabid. They do need all the fans they can get though.
What's your favorite animal? (You can have more than one.)
What are your plans for Halloween? Have you made any yet? Do you have any traditions? None yet. We used to hand out candy but we live so remote now that we don't get trick or treaters
Who are your BPAL forum buddies? You know, people I could conspire with to Witch you! see thread
What is your favorite Halloween icon? Lots - bats, black cats
Whats your favorite childhood toy? paper dolls
Do you Tweet? What is your Twitter name? northpolejo but I don't really use it & you don't want to know my unvarnished opinion
Are you on Ravelry? What is your Ravelry name? nope
Are you involved in any long-term, ambitious project? something like decorating your house or saving for a trip to the other end of the world, for example.
What are everyone's favorite Halloween-y/Autumn-y/spooky movies? Are there any you don't own but would like to? Hocus Pocus is an annual tradition; I really liked Nightmare Corpse Bride (don't have it). Edit: Oops! I've never seen Nightmare! HP & Practical Magic are the only ones I have & Practical Magic isn't that good.
How do you feel about ghost stories? I like ghost stories, but I don't seek them out
Did you order anything from the most recent update? Poes & cakes
Vampires or Werewolves? Or some other monster? nah
Any Gamers here? What kind? Board games? RPG? Miniature? MMORPG? no
How do you deal with stress? What's your favorite way to unwind? I cry. Take a bath.
Favorite musicals? Paint Your Wagon, Seven Brides...lots. I'd love to see new ones though. I've never seen Wicked, Rent.
Would you object to anonomous postcards (real ones) from your witch before the big reveal???
Do you like to find out there's a package on the way or to receive a tracking number to stalk, or do you prefer surprise packages?
Do you drink alcohol? Wine, beer or liquor? What is your favorite wine/beer/mixed drink?
What is one thing you constantly keep with you that you constantly lose? see thread
Because there are sooo many, I skip questions that don't interest me, I've answered elsewhere in my blog, or I've answered eleventy-billion times. (If it's still here, though, I plan to come back to it.)
Do you like s'mores and s'mores-flavored things? meh
What's the neatest freebie you've gotten? It can be cool or thoughtful or just totally unexpected, and not limited to BPALdom.
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)
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? Yup, XL. I like 'em big! Plus they always shrink.
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 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!
What kind of cuisines do you like? (I mentioned this in my ?aire but curious what my witch may like) And, what are your favorite restaurants?
I'm from Canada - is there anything specifically a witchee might like that is only available here?
what are your "fandoms" and would you like a t-shirt from TeeFury if an appropriate one came up?
Marzipan? almond-flavored candy stuff, right? I'd be all over that!
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? I'm very pro-green, so yes
Do you drink alcohol and if so, would you be OK with your witch sending you homemade infused vodka? yup
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? not tim-tams, because we can get those here now, and I'm not huge on cookies anyway (other than shortbread), but the rest, oh yeah!
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)? love fingerless gloves! socks never seem to fit right
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? DH always seems to look a little mournful that he doesn't get anything, but hey, he won't even wear BPAL so my sympathy is pretty limited
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. I'm from Minnesota. Nuff said?
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? If you could get it here. I think spoilage would be a problem though
Would you be interested in having a bat adopted in your name? I'd rather have a real one in my yard to eat skeeters, if you could make THAT happen
How would you feel about a taste of (insert witch location here) box? YES
Some of your favorite artists? Classic and modern? you mean music??
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 make a point of keeping backups of my GC faves; right now there are just the 3 LEs I'm looking for, mainly
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? Not familiar with any indies. I like OPI a lot. Don't wear polish that much, but I like to have a selection
Stuffed things: yea or nay? nay
New Question: 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? GREATEST idea ever!!!
Would you be interested in beer, wine, or other specialty beverages from your Witch's area? only a small amount, unless s/he did like the infused vodka thing?
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? god, no, I'm the Anti-Craft
Who here would be happy to get a lil' sumthin sumthin from Adagio Teas? nope, if there's such a thing as expiring tea, I have a drawerful
Do you Ravelry? And if so, what's your handle over there? Would you be interested in gift patterns from your queue? it's more like I UNravel
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? THIS place sounds extremely cool (haven't had a chance to do the clicky-dance, but oh, I willlll)
Who likes Pumpkin Spice Hershey Kisses? ick
What does your kitchen look like? Colors/style?
Witchee, what are your favorite quotes?
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?
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.
If there are no "witchy" shops near you, is there anything I can pick up for you from Enchantments?
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* Um, yes?
B..) Is the address in your questionnaire the best place to reach you for said deliveries? yes
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? sure
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 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? strawberry butter!!!
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?
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? in theory yes, but I never seem to play them
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'm about to be near a Lush store next week, is there anything you might like from there?
Songs that you keep meaning to buy but never get round to it?
Movies that you love but forgot to put in your questionaire?
Any favorite Bath & Body Works scents/products?
Haus of Gloi is offering custom perfumes - would you like one? What would your ideal blend be? nah
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?
Witchee, will you be gone from your normal mailing address at any point during the round?
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 ?
dear witchee, would you, could you use an electric candle warmer? prolly not
Do you lust after some new socks/tights? always
are there any of MeiLin's books (e-book or print) you'd be interested in?
Are you a gamer (of any sort - video, casual, tabletop) and are there any games you want? bigfishgames.com - I play a lot of their games
Would you be interested in BPTP CANDY? there's trading post candy????
Do you like coffee? If so, what kinds? Flavored, fancy, basic? Beans or ground? I'm a coffee ho'
Would a Starbucks gift card make you happy or do you prefer your local place? I don't hit Starbucks except when I'm going thru airports.... which is pretty often lately...
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...? bluuue! oh, blue what, you ask? A bird feeder might be cool. We've never had one. We have hungry hummingbirds among other things (cardinals, you name it)
Do you have a forum buddy? Someone who knows you and/or your tastes well enough to answer questions on your behalf? voodoocat? stellans, maybe...
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?
A question, witchees: if you are into tarot, what is your favorite card?
And another question: would you like your own set of handmade rune stones or worry stones?
Coffee, tea, hot chocolate, cider, or none of the above?
Gum, hard candy, soft candy, or none of the above?
Loose tea or tea bags? Do you need anything for your loose tea? (Filters, presses, etc.)
If you like tea, what kinds?
Do you do Goodreads or LibraryThing or a site like that? If so, can I see your to-read list, please?
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?
If you have kids, what are they into?
How do you feel about wearable knitted lace? Shawls, wraps, and the like?
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?
I live in Japan. Anything you would be interested in from there?
Candy Corn: yes, no?
WHAT MAKES YOU LAUGH YOUR ASS OFF!!! movies, comedians, black humor, your partner, a comic strip? what?
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?
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?
Are there any existing Weenies that you have your eye on, but haven't gotten around to getting?
if you wear earrings, do you have pierced ears?
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?
And what are your favourite characters from your fandoms?
My Little Pony... Cute or meh?
Sign coming into North Pole
Santa Claus Lane (Main St.) with candy cane street lights
Traffic circle with Christmas trees (it was snowing again, of course)
And now that I've spent over an hour playing with uploading, editing & resizing photos...
Doable? Absolutely! If you want to send multiple large flat rate boxes to Australia, it's going to cost you big bucks (how do you feel about setting aside $100+ for postage? ), so it definitely makes sense to plan. Here are some ideas:
1. Padded mailers are much cheaper to mail than boxes (usually less than $10 anywhere in the world)
2. Local co-conspirators: people who will pick up goodies and get them to your witchee to you. If you can't find anyone, you can ask the ringleaders to post an anonymous request for you.
3. Barter with another forumite (can be another switch witcher, but doesn't have to be) to mail something directly to your witchee; maybe you can swap your craftiness or BPAL, sky's the limit on this
4. Etsy.com's search function allows search by country; look for vendors within your witchee's country so the shipping will be lower (if you shop on Saturdays after 5 p.m., check the SNS thread, lots of free shipping specials)
5. Gift cards or electronic gift certicates weigh nothing, little or no shipping
6. Donation to a cause dear to your witchee's heart, again, no shipping (Society for the Preservation of Lame Lemmings, etc.)
7. Check the Switch Witch Warehouse linked at the bottom of every official SW post and at the bottom of post #1. Most of the stuff offered is FREE. This is an underused resource!
ltrittipoe:
Found sellers on etsy where the shipping was super cheap! (Lots of places are cheap to ship to the EU or elsewhere; I found a seller in Singapore that shipped hairsticks, beautifully wrapped, with a nice note, for I think $2)
Amazon ships internationally pretty inexpensively. Just watch the format if it is dvds - different countries have different zones/formats.
E-gift certificates. I sent a Villainess one.
Cheerful American postcards are cute! And cards with stickers - postage for those are cheap. Just sort of a "fill in" thinking of you... thing.
I found things that my Witch really wanted, in the grocery store, and was pleased about it - she loves Stash tea, and I emailed the company to inquire about shipping int'l rates (as their website said to do) - 3 times. They never responded. I found the tea in the grocery store, for cheaper than on the website, and was able to mail a ton of tea pretty cheaply. I took it out of the box and sent it in a padded envelope (um, tea bags, of course!) Alternately, tea bags are helpful for padding in a box. I take them out of the box and shove them down around whatever I am shipping - those items are bubble wrapped, usually, and then tea just makes an extra barrier.
I talked to a friendly postal worker. We determined that it would be cheaper for me to mail two boxes, instead of one larger one, he saved me I think $20 in shipping that way. (B/C I think one could go in an envelope.) International mail is not just weight, it is also size! Taking out extra things and being able to fit the same things in a smaller box also saved money! And when I took the box in for mailing originally, I had about two weeks extra time (including mailing) , so when I found out how much the original box weighed, I took it home, unpacked it, and swapped out some of the heavier things. Candy is very heavy. I swapped out some larger, heavier things for smaller - candle tarts weigh much less than a big jar candle!
The end box I sent may not have been as large or fancy as I originally intended, but I kept in touch with e-cards, postcards (lots of people on the forum are willing to send a postcard internationally & I think it's neat to have postcards from all over), and small gifties. I think one package was slipper socks type things, in a padded envelope, and it was - $3? postage? something like that.
jrk1857:
Talk to your post office *in advance,* as you plan the packages. There may be a point at which it is much cheaper to send more, smaller packages. When I had a Canadian witchee, the post office said that shipping got exponentially more expensive over (I think) 4 pounds. As in, it was much cheaper to send 2 two pound packages than one 4 pound package.
girasol:
For anybody who has a witchee in Australia/NZ (who isn't me, of course!), I'm happy to provide co-conspiring services! I could send baked goods or pick things up from local stores and send them on the witch's behalf.
(offer was made Halloweenie 2010 round)
ReallyZeb:
if you're padding a box with loose teabags, please label them in plastic bags so customs know what they are as drugs sniffer dogs seem to quite like the smell!
I will happily shop for & send UK stuff for your witchee (Summer 2013 round)
****** Answered questions in BOLD
Have you any desire to read Hannibal? Nope not after Silence of the Lambs, thought it could have been done much better
If your witch goes to Convergence (or is bestest friends with someone, same thing), is there anything you'd love to have? Possibly am going, still dithering - wish I hadn't waited so long as cost has gone up stratospherically! If I CAN'T go, a C15 babydoll tee
Are you freaking out over any of the discontinued scents, dear fellow Witches? Nope, tried em all
For those candy loving witchees. Are there any 3 that u love and would like more of? dark chocolate, am trying to think of waht I never get to have...anything decadent really
And, are there any 3 that u just cannot stand and would not like any of? black licorice (red is good though), snickers (anything with peanuts)
Do you have an electric stove, and would you like a bowl and tarts to use the residual heat (and for extra safety)? Yes & no, I have an electric warmer
With all this talk of chocolate, do you prefer milk or dark? Dark (family doesn't like it much), would love to try funky flavors
What's that one thing you keep meaning to get but keep forgetting or passing over?
***6/29***
Do you like coconut? In Mounds/Almond Joys but otherwise mostly just fresh in chunks
What kind of mythology are you interested in? Roman/Greek - Zeus, Athena etc.
***6/28***
Which flavors are you interested to try from the Chocolate Research Facility? I didn't even dare click, LOL
Do you wear makeup or nail polish? Need brushes, containers, storage, mani/pedi supplies? What colors and brands do you like? Yes, WL is in my makeupalley.com account. Need/want very little for makeup but there's a bit I'm looking for for nails
Do you like shiney hanging porch decorations like windchimes or those things that spin and swirl in the wind? Love chimes, esp. glass
Hair adornments? Barrettes that stay tight - try to find those!!
If you could make your perfect scent (or at least most desired at the moment!) what would be in it? Lemon & musk with litsea to make the lemon last. Maybe something else give it interest. Vanilla? nah, too sweet though I do love it.
So would anyone like to receive some original, or very much loved recipes from his/her witch? you bet
List things you DO NOT need any more of: Tarts at the moment; makeup;
***6/27***
Is there something that would offend you if you received it in your mail/gift/email)? Pretty hard to offend me, though I think the really childish humor is well, childish. Not likely to be an issue though
What do you like to snack on? Popcorn, chips or vanilla ice cream with strawberries. In a pinch a popcicle.
What is the color scheme you use most when you decorate? I like blue and white for kitchens, cream and dark green with peach for other spaces (but hardly ever get to use that as we keep buying for resale and have to go with beige a lot)
If you have music or DVD's on your wishlist, do you mind getting a burned copy? How about if it is original packaging but previously used? Or do you only want it new? any is great
Who is your favorite artist? What are some of your favorite pieces of their work? Kay Boyce, love old line drawings, have some things in my etsy to show what I like
Are you a candles person, incense person, or just a BPTP spritzer for room scents? Lately sprays. I spray a bit of Snow White atmo when I go to bed at night, just LOVE it
What is your favorite latin or faux latiny phrase? Carpe diem
***6/26***
How are you doing for BPAL storage? Need any boxes? Yes, desperately!
Is there any place you've visited where you feel like you left your heart there? Thought I did in England, til I left Alaska, then I knew I did, that broke my heart.
What one item would you just love to have that is made by a Switch Witch? A lightweight soft throw for my cat and me to fight over? a wrap? I don't wear knitted hats so not that, don't need mittens or a scarf
What kind of a car do you drive and would you want something you could use in your car? Rear view mirror charms, steering wheel covers (a new thinkg for the knitters ), car blessing medicine bags? 2002 Acura & 1961 Thunderbird (renovation project) will post pics
Do you want to know when you have something coming in the mail, or would you rather it be a complete surprise? Either will make my day!
What is your mailbox situation? Separate, end of driveway, she comes around 1 pm, delivers to the house stuff too big for the box
***6/25***
Are you interested in Tarot or Tarot art? lazy interest
What would you think of soap samples/shampoo bar samples? Or other sample sized bath/beauty products, for that matter? yay!!
What about burnables as in candles, tarts and/or incense? see RT wishlist
Do you like coffee? Whole bean or ground? Bold/Medium/Mild roast? LOVE coffee, I like it stronger than my DH
Are there any other knitted goods you might like? Lap blanket? Fingerless gloves? Arm warmers? Little knitted animals? Silk scarf? Head band? Wrist cuff? Dish cloths? Lap blanket, fingerless gloves (marked some in etsy), dishcloths
***6/24***
What are your favorite materials? Or material things? Some people like jewelry, some like woods, some plants...
Is there anything you've been wanting to learn that your witch might be able to help you with?
Are there any historical figures you are particularly interested in - say, that you'd enjoy reading about, or movies, etc.?
***6/23***
Anyone reading an amazing book right now? I don't know about amazing, but it's good, not so good that I can remember the name of it however...
Tea. How do you feel about it? I always think I should drink it more - in theory
would my future witchee like to receive steampunk style jewelry? Love to look at it, but can't see me wearing it
Does your feline like catnip? OMG yes
Salt soap bars (soap made with a large quantity of salt, like salt-scrub-in-a-bar)? yup, my current obsession
How would you feel about homemade jelly/jam from home-grown berries? Yes! DH voted no on jelly though, LOL (he's a jam/preserves kinda guy)
Homemade dill pickles? Made from cukes, beans, snap peas, baby zucchini? YES!!!!!
***6/22***
Based on Prior Carnivale act prototypes...which one are you truly excited about? Haven't read about these - need to get my ass in gear maybe?
Would it bother you if you are not the first person to receive the same gift? Imagine a Witch who always sends her favourite book, for example. I do this all the time! Check out the silk scarf I have favorited in etsy for $12 - I gave it to 3 people for xmas
Twilight fans, would you be interested in any products from this Etsy seller? I wouldn't be interested in Twilight anything from anywhere. The book I read was a study in mediocrity.
***6/20-21***
Are there any single notes (likely non bpal) that anyone is dying to have/try? tonka, musks, litsea, carnation, lotus (I'm not a BPAL snob - there are great SN etailers out there)
net flix or the likes gift subscriptions? A month of Netflix vs a DvD? I'd love this, but am considering doing a trial, so be better to ask or see if I mention it? we don't have cable so are starved for decent movies/shows
Adorable Japanese characters? Such exists? I do like the stationery though
My fiance sent me an early dvd rip of Coraline that he was given (pretty sure it's not been released yet, but I sometimes have a hard time keeping up) and I was wondering if anyone would like a copy of it? yes!
Do you collect dolls or miniatures? What kind? Do you like to get new clothes or items for them? no, although I'd love to have a BJD
Would you like any recycle/upcycle supplies for your crafting? HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!
Is there a program you might have missed or show you love which is gone from the airwaves which might be found (or burned) for you by a Witch? The browncoats thing everyone raves about? never saw that show; also have never seen any Dr. Who
Do you play any online games, like World of Warcraft? no
Would anyone like bath bombs or bath melts scented with one of their favorite Bpal scents? This would be an amazing personalized gift
Would you like homemade cinnamon buns or sticky buns? yes, but it could get ugly shipping them here
Any non NZ or Aus witchee that I get gets Tim Tams, OK? I've gotten these & I like 'em but honestly there are homemade ones that are better (gasp, blasphemy)
***6/19***
How many potential witchees have an iPod, or download MP3s? don't have one. really.
***6/18***
Are there any of the BPTP bath oils you adore (particularly ones that you cannot get anymore). What about the room sprays? snow white spray - I would like to corner the world supply. The bath oils - see WL, but esp. Semiramis & Tomoe.
How would you feel about an ultra-girlie shawl or wrap in summer-weight (lace)? Would love one - I hate TX a/c
What would you think of hand-dyed items? terrific
***6/17***
Do you have a certain type of handmade item that you love to collect? Socks, boxes, jewelry, dolls etc? can't think of any - I'd love to have little pillows for my bed, but that's not a collection
But, if you're NOT a vegan how would you feel about soaps made with emu oil? Squicked out/concerned about animal cruelty, or willing to try them? Put in anything you want, bits of the Donner Party if you like (well, ok, maybe I'd draw the line there)
