Halloween Round 2011

 

From the Weenie Update....what are you most wanting to try?

Surprisingly, my list isn't insanely long! I'm always keen to try Samhainophobia because it's a traditional favorite, and this year Golden Apple of the Sun and Elegy IX: The Autumnal sound like they might work on me. Also, Expressive Head, although the art freaks me the heck out.

 

Who's into nail polish? What colors/brands?

I am not super into nail polish simply because I almost never paint my fingernails. Having polish on them makes them feel like they are suffocating and I end up peeling it off. However, I do paint my toe nails in the summer because I have some really ugly nails from the Reynaud's

I have no preferred brands, but like reds, hot pinks, and dark plums/maroon etc.

 

Is there a quote (or lyric or part of a poem) that really resonates with you or is your favorite?

I have a couple of favorites...

 

From The Magus, by John Fowles:

There comes a time in each life like a point of fulcrum. At that time you must accept yourself. It is not anymore what you will become. It is what you are and always will be.

 

From Descent Into Hell, by Charles Williams:

Rarity was one form of delight and frequency another. A thing could even be beautiful because it did not happen, or rather the not-happening could be beautiful. So long always as joy was not rashly pinned to the happening; so long as you accepted what joys the universe offered and did not seek to compel the universe to offer you joys of your own definition.

 

I am also still head over heels in love with the poem You Who Never Arrived by Rilke:

 

You who never arrived

in my arms, Beloved, who were lost

from the start,

I don't even know what songs

would please you. I have given up trying

to recognize you in the surging wave of

the next moment. All the immense

images in me -- the far-off, deeply-felt

landscape, cities, towers, and bridges, and

unsuspected turns in the path,

and those powerful lands that were once

pulsing with the life of the gods--

all rise within me to mean

you, who forever elude me.

 

You, Beloved, who are all

the gardens I have ever gazed at,

longing. An open window

in a country house-- , and you almost

stepped out, pensive, to meet me.

Streets that I chanced upon,--

you had just walked down them and vanished.

And sometimes, in a shop, the mirrors

were still dizzy with your presence and,

startled, gave back my too-sudden image.

Who knows? Perhaps the same

bird echoed through both of us

yesterday, separate, in the evening...

 

Dream candle? Scent, color, type (tealight, votive, pillar, jar, etc.), throw...

I like the ease of the self contained candle, so I would vote for a jar. Color would matter less to me than scent. I'm imagining something with lavender and lemon which would make my bathroom smell clean and fresh. Maybe some sweet grass or sage thrown in there as well.

 

Do you like knitted goodies? If so, what would you like and what colors?

I am so not picky. If you knit for me, I'll be impressed and grateful no matter what. Seriously. Scarves, hats (my head is quite small, if you need a measurement, I'll take one), mittens, gloves, socks, arm warmers, leg warmers, shawls, an eye glass case, pot holders.... I will be impressed. I like turquoise, blue, red, back, plumb, dark green, kelly green... Again, I'm not picky.

 

Would you be interested in homemade edibles that are NOT sweets? Any specifics?

I'm not picky is clearly the chorus to my song... But yes, I am interested in anything you make as long as it's not sweet pickles. (I like dill and spicy, but sweet pickled things just seem wrong to me.) That would include everything from pretzels and bread to mustard and jam and vinegar and and and... If you can dream it up, I'll probably gush over it.

 

What GC do you live in mortal terror of the lab discontinuing, but never get around to buying?

The only two I live in terror of disappearing are Vixen and Hetairae, my two every day scents. I normally have back-up bottles of both to alleviate just such fears, but am currently out (eep!) of Vixen. (The back-up bottles lived in a box that we think was lost in our move. It also had J's electric razors in it!)

 

Yo, yarnies! Do you Ravelry? If so, who are you over thar?

Anti-crafter, because I have no skillz.

 

Social Media?

kakiphony on lj and twitter. I'm in the big list of friending on the GUSP Facebook page as well. Everything is locked down, but just tell me you're a bpaler and you will be added.

 

Do you have wishlists for non-BPAL e-tailers? And if so, could you provide a link or a list?

I included amazon, etsy and the original flavor switch witch help thread post on my questionnaire.

 

Witchee, do you use a PC or a Mac?

Mac

 

What is your favorite animal?

Foxes!

 

What are you going to be for Halloween?

I don't think I'll dress up this year. I may, in fact, be traveling that day.

 

If you could have a piece of oil painting jewelry (pendant, pair of earrings, or ring) with absolutely anything painted on it, what would it be?

(If you prefer wall art instead, same question as above.)

Maybe a fox? A raven? A tree? I have no idea. If you need inspiration, you could weed through my insanely long etsy wishlist. That should give you a better picture of my taste.

How do you feel about nick-knacks?

They are for dust. Dust is evil. Therefore they are evil.

 

What traditions (family, holiday, or otherwise) are important to you?

A silly one: At holidays we take pictures of a squirrel candle doing silly/fun things and send them to my brother. He lives in Alaska, rarely comes home, and the squirrel has kind of become his stand-in.

 

Do you like going to the movies?

Yes, but I very rarely go.

 

What are your favorite restaurants?

I really like local places. Here in TC I am in love with the Bay Leaf, Amical, Stella, Lil' Bo, Chez Peres and Pangaea Pizza. (Google them and drool. Seriously.) We don't do chains much, but will occasionally pop into Olive Garden, Olgas (which may be an MI chain only), Chipotle or Qdoba, etc.

 

Do you play any video games?

Nope.

 

Do you like any anime?

I know not of anime. This does not mean I could not be enabled, just that I am currently not into it.

 

Do you have an E-reader/iPad/something similar that you need a cover/case for?

I have a kindle, but it already has a snazzy black leather cover.

 

how much do you like jewelry? like, if you were to get a shit ton of it during the round, how excited would you be?

You might have to peel me off the ceiling I could be jumping up and down so much. Really. I love jewelry. I am cheap as heck about buying new clothes and rely on jewelry to jazz up my basics. I <3 it sooooo much. (This also might be a good place to mention that in addition to delicate dangly earrings and hoops which I mentioned on the questionnaire, I've recently been wearing a lot of simple post earrings. This is partly because I seem to have lost one of everything but some post pearls, but also because they're easy and nice and conservative for at work. Also, I tend to lose them less than dangles.)

 

How would you like to receive some of your Witch's favorite recipes, tailored to your likes/dietary restrictions? And specific wants?

I adore recipes. I have an awesome Longaberger basket recipe box which holds the cards and has a flat surface to place them on while you cook. I love it. I also have a three ring binder with recipes inside plastic sleeves which I also think is the best thing ever -- it lays flat and the plastic protects the recipes from spills.

 

Do you need any boxes to store your smellies in? What would you store in said hypothetical box--imps, bottles, supplies, all of the above?

I don't need dedicated smelly boxes (the kind with the styrofoam for imps), but could always use more generic boxes (without the imp/bottle holders in them) that can be for smellies OR jewelry OR hair ties OR keepsakes etc. I dislike clutter, so I love boxes as cute clutter hiders.

 

Muppets: yea or nay?

Yay! My favorites are Statler and Waldorf. I wanna be one of them when I grow up. (Why are all the cool grumpy people men? I also want to be Red Foreman and Dr. Cox. We need a grumpy woman for me to emulate!)

 

Do you have an affinity for Calvin and Hobbes, Peanuts, The Far Side, and other comic strips? If so, which is your favorite?

Not really.

 

Favorite Mythological Creature?:

Trickster foxes.

 

Do you like hair things barrettes, headbands, flowers

Barrettes and soft scrunchy like things that can be used for pony tails or buns. I linked to the type of barrette I use the most on the questionnaire. Headbands and those awesome scarf-like things that act like headbands are nice, but are always too big for my head and slide out of my hair. (My hair is super straight/fine which means it is soft and slippery.)

 

Do you like to burn incense? If so, what are your favorite kinds...sticks? cones? resins? What are your favorite scents?

On occasion, when I have nice stuff. I only have a stick holder at the moment, but would not be opposed to other kinds if I had the proper equipment in/with which to burn it. I really like the Fred Soll resin sticks -- especially Amber Honey, Pinon, Copal, Ginger/Ginseng and all the Sage varieties. I also used to have some "smokeless" Japanese style incense that I loved.

 

- Harry Potter - a fan? If so, what house are you?

Yes. Ravenclaw all the way! (And I prefer book Ravenclaw colors of blue and bronze to the movie colors of blue and silver.)

 

- If you were to receive a gift card, what places would you like to get one from?

??? Anywhere you think I'd enjoy? Amazon is always good since I can buy e-books, but really, I will love anything.

 

Is there a particular myth/folktale/legend/fairytale/godstory that you're drawn to?

Hmm...Too many? I am drawn to tales of the Medusa, classic Grimm's fairy tales, Tam Lin... I could list paragraphs. Suffice it to say that I love fairy tales and Greek myth.

 

If you RP, tabletop, forum, or otherwise... Do you have any original characters you'd like to see art of? If so, please give information! Even if it's a link to a web page or a profile or picture!

I do not do these things.

 

If you could see anything, what would it be? Can be a person, an event, a landmark or monument, an object, etc. And it doesn't have to be on this planet, or in this time period, or in this reality!

The (first) World's Fair in London in 1851.

 

When you are having a really rough day, what do you like to do/have to make it a little brighter?

A cup of tea, a good book, a thunder storm, some time with my husband, a silly tv show... The usual little pleasures that make life worth living.

 

What are your thoughts on comics? Any you like? Any you have been wanting to try? Favorite characters?

I read XKCD and Questionable Content daily. Otherwise, I have never really gotten into comics. This is not to say I am not interested, just that I would need to be enabled. I will say that the two graphic novel type things I keep meaning to read, but never do are Sandman and Fables. However, I have a feeling that I will have my usual reaction which is: Someone should novelize this for more detail...

 

Are you musical? Do you play an instrument, and if so, what? If not, what do you wish you could play or do?

I am about as musical as I am crafty, which is to say, not at all. If I could magically be granted ability I'd choose to be able to sing rather than play an instrument. I cannot carry a tune in a bucket.

 

Does anyone garden? And if you do, what do you grow? If not, would a starter garden kit be something you'd be interested in?

I do not mainly because I am not allowed to dig in my yard. I used to have a gorgeous garden with herbs and vegetables back in the day. I would like to learn to container garden or have an indoor herb garden or even just indoor plants (I love jade plants), but I seem to have a black thumb indoors. Outdoors, I can't kill things. Inside, I can't keep anything alive.

 

Do you decorate for Halloween? Is your decorating taste elegant, kitschy and fun, or scary?

I do not, mainly because I am lazy and if I did the decorations would stay up until Christmas, gather dust and annoy me. The one place I would like to add some personal flair is my office. I currently have white walls. But I am scared to bring art in because I work at an arts academy and am sure to be judged on whatever I hang!

 

Witchee, do you have any symbols or totems that have special meaning for you?

Not in particular. I like foxes, rabbits, ravens, owls and trees. But I just like them, they don't mean anything special.

 

Is anyone fond of programs like Adopt a Tree/Highway/Library/Manatee/Acre of Rainforest/etc?:

I am not super familiar with them, but anything that supports libraries warms the cockles of my heart.

 

What #1 actor, director, author and/or musician are you obsessed with?

None really. I suppose the closest would be David Byrne, David Bowie and Fred Eaglesmith because I think everything they put out is brilliant. But I don't think I really fangirl any of them

 

Are you interested in anything from the Villainness Bad Apples update?

All of it? The best sounding ones to me are: Discord and Twistappel. But this gives me a place to say something I think I forgot to mention on my questionnaire: While my tastes in perfume scents are somewhat narrow, my taste in soap scents is much more broad. While I can't do musk or fruits or florals in perfume, I can handle them in soap. I think it's because the soap scent does not linger as much and trigger my sneeze reflex. So I enjoy things like apple soap, or (mild) jasmine tea soap whereas I would never buy those scents in perfume.

 

If you have a pet, would he/she/they like to receive a treat or a toy as a gift? Does your pet have any dietary restrictions or other preferences w.r.t. said treat?

No pets!

 

What are your top three "I want to try them but I think I'll never get to try them" (or, "I've tried them and I want moar moar moar, but I don't think I'll ever get any") scents/bath oils/sprays?

I think top on my "I'll never get to them" list are most of the bath oils from bptp. I just don't use bath oil enough to justify the cost of a bottle when my budget is still so tight. Also, probably the Riders (White, Red, Black). I like leather, but since it's less work appropriate it always goes to the bottom of the list.

 

Is there a particular artist and piece that you would like a print of? If so, what is your max size that you could spare on your walls?

Nothing in particular, but I love art. As I said, my office walls are completely empty and my bedroom walls are pretty bare too. No max size. I like big stuff, but I can often find a spot for wee things too.

 

If you are in to beauty and makeup related stuff, what kind of stuff do you like? What is your skintone and hair color? Are there any beauty products you've wanted to try but just never purchase?

I am a makeup idiot. The only cosmetic I wear daily is clear mascara -- and I use that as brow tamer!

 

Do you like coffee or tea? Would you be interested in trying some different types?

Like both and am always open to tasty drinks. I think I covered this on the questionnaire. If you need more guidance ask in an e-card or e-mail and I'll elaborate further.

 

Are there any CDs/Albums you've been wanting but haven't bought yet? What format do you prefer? (i.e. mp3, actual cd, record, etc)

Not really. My husband buys a LOT of music (he goes through iTunes gift cards the way I go through Amazon ones!) so we have almost everything I want.

 

Are you going away for any part of this round?

I may be in Massachusetts over the weekend of October 30th, but it will be a short trip. Like 3 days away, max.

 

Would you like to receive a mix-CD from your Witch?

Sure. I bet my husband would like it too. He still loves making them.

 

If your witch were going somewhere on a vacation during the round, would you want a little souvenir?

If my witch saw something that had Kaki written all over it and had room in her luggage, I would certainly not object!

 

Do you enjoy any outdoor activities? Do you have a favorite form of "exercise"?

I like walking along the river and the beach and swimming. I wish I could say I loved exercise, but I am a lazy, lazy thing.

 

Any witchee's with a ravelry account have any favourited patterns that cost money that would be a welcome gift?

Crafting skills are beyond me.

 

Do you work/study at a desk and enjoy interesting or cute office supplies?

I have a desk in my office and office supplies are always a pain to obtain around here. (I have to requisition them from a shop and turn in receipts.) So cute office supplies would not be turned away.

 

Witchee, are you a fan of musicals? If so, which ones?

Yes, but I am picky and weird. I like OLD musicals -- the Rodgers and Hammerstein/Hart types ones. I love: Gigi, South Pacific, My Fair Lady, Oklahoma, Camelot, Annie, etc. I do NOT like Wicked or Rent. The only Sondheim I can stand is West Side Story. In general, I prefer musicals with witty, funny songs to those with "pretty" songs designed for diva voices.

 

I am fond of the thrift. Do you mind lightly used goods? Please be specific! For instance, I'm a little squicked by used clothing, but I don't mind any other used goods (i.e. books, glassware, games, DVDs, whatever.)

I am very fond of thrift. I don't think much squicks me but used socks, shoes and panties. Media, clothes, scarves, kitchenware, etc. are all things I buy vintage all the time.

 

Do you have an Etsy shop? Do you know of any Etsy shops that are Switch Witch friendly?

I do not, but I think ALL the forum member shops are SW friendly. I love supporting our members!

 

Would a gift or a postcard from Disneyland make you squee with delight or puke into your mail box?

A postcard would make me smile, but most Disney merchandise would not thrill me. It wouldn't make me puke, but I probably would not squee. Now HP merch might get more of a squee, specifically HP merch that isn't logo based or could be used/worn in real life and which might or might not even guess was HP (like a striped scarf or other related but not obvious things).

 

what are your favorite types of Halloween candy?

Tiny payday candy bars. Honestly, I try very not to keep too much candy in my house because we eat it. This is bad because we have the self control of 2 year olds.

 

Do you prefer soap or shower gel? Please give examples of your favorite scents or brands.

Bar soap. Again, I think I covered this is in the questionnaire, but if you need more specific guidance, just ask.

 

How do you like your chocolate? For example with nuts, mint, peanut butter, caramel?

I prefer dark to light and I like nuts, toffee, fruit, ginger, pepper...everything really.

 

Beads! Do you use them? Would you want some? What sorts of beads do you like?

I only need beads in the form of already assembled pieces. I have no crafting skills.

 

Anyone here like caramels? Sea salted caramels?!?!

Yes and yes.

 

Would you like a hand dyed or hand painted scarf or wrap or other item? If so, what colors/designs/fabrics do you like?

That sounds lovely. I actually have loads of scarves on my etsy wishlist which would give a good guide as to the colors I like. In general, I like bright colors, especially blues, greens and red. I also like plums and burgundy and black. I tend to prefer natural fibers (wool, cotton, silk) and HATE fibers that shed (mohair is the devil).

 

This was a question before, but does anyone here like stones? Just pretty polished stones for use in whatever purposes?

Yes, but I have TUBS of them. Seriously. If you send me more stones, J might kill you.

 

And another question; anyone like anything in particular from Think Geek?

I have no idea. I almost never look at that site because I actually forget about it...

 

Pinterest, do you have boards you want to share or are you following anyone with great boards you want to share?

I did not even know what it was until the question was asked. So, no.

 

Would you like to receive e-books? And if so, in what format?

Sure. I have a kindle, so that works best. I can supposedly make it take other formats, but have yet to experiment with that.

 

If you have kids, would you be interested in getting things for them? And if so, what are they interested and what sizes are the wearing now?

No kids.

 

Would you be interested in a felted handbag? Do any of these styles appeal to you? http://tinyurl.com/3o2epzl (there's at least one guy-friendly style, too!)

I like the plain square on the best and then the gathered one with long strap. I tend to like bags I can wear across my chest, so tiny handles and I do not get along. (But overly long straps make me angry too since I'm short and I don't want a bag that hits my knees.)

 

Are there are patterns, motifs, etc that you especially like?

I'm not really sure what this means...

 

Witchee, would you be interested in having a special tea cup/coffee mug/glass to drink out of?

I do like mugs, and tend to prefer, taller ones that have the kind of hip bend in them to short squat ones -- I think the shape helps keep things warm longer.

 

If you're a tea drinker, is there any specific tea you would like to receive, not just the kind/flavor but also the type/packing--i.e., tea bags, loose tea, compressed, etc?

I think I addressed this on the questionnaire and in my general SW help post. If you need more clarification, feel free to ask.

 

How would you feel about kitchen towels and other similar household objects, if they are pretty or a souvenir?

I like them. Kitchen towels get grimey really fast in my world, so having replacements is lovely.

 

How did you dress up for your last party or compulsory-formal-dress occasion?

Does this mean dress up as in nice clothes or dress up as in costumes? Umm...last nice clothes occasion I wore my one and only little black dress (wool jersey, long sleeved, empire waist, short skirt) with a triple strand of pearls and heels. Last costumed event I went as a pirate and wore my silk wedding coat.

 

Do you enjoy puzzles/riddles? (Cryptograms, Sudoku, Crossword, Jigsaw, etc)

I like crosswords, but find Sudoku to be utterly horrifying. Math for fun? Umm, no. I rarely do jigsaw puzzles EXCEPT with small children who visit me. So low-piece-count puzzles are always welcome for my toy box. (Yes, I have a toy box. I try to keep it stocked with new coloring books, crayons, washable markers, puzzles, dress-up clothes, stuffed animals, and other little games for the kids when they come over. Because I am the best auntie EVER.)

 

Can you sum yourself (whether it be personality, life's goals, ethics, whatever) in 10 words or less?

No.

 

How about little bottles of booze? Ya wanna? What kind?

Sure. But not things like pucker or schnapps, just real booze that you tend to mix with things (even if it's only ice), like scotch or whisky or gin or vodka. I'm actually kind a booze snob though, so this may actually be more trouble than it's worth for me. (I like Grey Goose, Hendrick's, Jamesons, single malts, etc.)

 

What are your views on fudge and brownies? (Also, if you live in a warm place, where the fudge might melt, that'd be helpful to know. Or, if you're diabetic and fudge is death, that'd be useful to know, too.)

I like them and even on days I think they're too sweet, J loves 'em. It is warm in the summer here, but I think we're past the season of melted mail.

 

Also, what about mochi? Love it, hate it, baffled by it?

I have never had it to my recollection.

 

Anything from the update ya'll are liking? BPTP UPDATE

I updated my wishlist.

 

Does anyone like kimchi?

I do. I like most fermented vegetables.

 

Would you be interested in a sample box(from somewhere like Birchbox or loosebutton)?

I certainly would not be opposed.

 

You have to place a Lab and Trading Post order. Right fuckin' now. No spending limits. What do you buy?

Bottles of Vixen and Hetairae and everything on my wishlist. (You did say no limit!) If I decided to be frugal even with no limit, I'd probably buy Vixen, Morocco, Sudha Segara, Safari and an imp pack or two from bpal and the red t-shirt, a pair of yoga pants, and Morocco bath oil, the soaps and Eye of Newt and Howlet's Wing from bptp.

 

Paintbox Soapworks - anything you're interested in, in general or from the latest update?

I have quite a bit of it on my etsy favorites list. In general, I want to try any/all of it. I may look at it again and mark a few more scents.

 

Do you guys have any sports that you follow obsessively? How about favorite teams and/or athletes

Obessively, no. But I do end up watching Detroit sports (Tigers, Red Wings, Lions) and Notre Dame football with the husband and family.

 

How do you feel about notebooks/journals/stationery? Anything you need or particularly like?

I love notebooks and journals, but am honestly pretty well stocked right now. I could always use sticky notes and I've wanted one of those grocery list pads that magnetizes to the refrigerator for ages.

 

Does confetti/glitter make you angry or fill you with glee?

Neither if it is contained. If it gets all over everything I go crazy with the vacuum cleaner.

 

Fabulous witches and witchees, perhaps you all could note of you've received MeiLin's goodies? Or if you want?

I have actually read quite a bit of her things already. I tend to buy them when she posts 'em.

 

How do you feel about stuffed animals/plushies/general soft, cuddly things? If you like them, what kind of animals would you be interested in?

I'm not a huge fan. I keep a few around the house for when kids visit, but I don't buy them for myself.

 

how interested would you be on somewhat personalized bottle cap labels? Like these that I did?

I don't really have enough bottles to justify them. I tend to keep a REALLY minimal stash. I don't usually have more on hand than I think I can actually wear within 6 months,

 

When you're miserably sick (*sniffle, cough!*) what are the things that comfort you the most?

Soup - especially miso soup. I buy those little miso packets and use them to make broth for ramen or I buy the Annie Chung's miso with the big fat noodles which is SO good (but so full of sodium it is a sickness treat only). Also, Pho -- with loads and loads of cilantro, spouts, lime and rooster sauce. And hot toddies (Jamesons with water, lemon and sugar -- hot.)

 

What constitutes ultimate luxury to you? (go crazy!)

Staying in a swank hotel with a deep bathtub with jets, having loads of bath bombs/oils to use in it, a stack of books or movies to watch and ordering room service. Many bonus points if the room service comes from a good restaurant.

 

Really, eating out and being able to order whatever I feel like from appetizers to booze to dessert feels pretty darn luxurious to me.

 

What do you really NOT want?

Umm?????? I have no idea.

 

interested in anything from Lush?

I'm pretty sure there's a Lush section on my non-bpal/switch help post wishlist thing which is linked in my sig. and again in the questionnaire.

 

Do you blog? Would you like a header for your blog, a layout, etc?

Just on lj. I don't think a layout there would be very useful for me. However, I am thinking (seriously) of opening a vintage book shop on etsy. If my witch has experience with etsy banners, help in that regard would be swell.

 

Would you be interested in a handmade bookmark?

Sure, as long as my witch is ok with the fact that I'll probably lose it within a month!

 

do you like chex puppy chow or muddie buddies (ingredients: semi-sweet chocolate chips, PB, vanilla extract, powdered sugar, chex cereal)? would you want to get some from your witch / nacho witch?

I like it all and would eat it. Also, J would eat it. In fact, we might fight over who eats it.

 

How would you feel about receiving a Groupon deal for something in your local area? If there is anything you WOULDN'T like, mention that also.

I would like one. Sadly, there are not many. Usually the closest to me are in Grand Rapids, which is 1.5 to 2 hours and just too far to drive. So unless it was for a retail chain or something like that, it probably is a no-go. I miss Groupon. We had such good ones in Fort Collins.

 

do you like real sugar skulls? Things with sugar skull designs?

Yes and yes. I especially like the really colorful ones.

 

Who here adores meringue?

Like/enjoy yes, adore might be a little much though.

 

Are you more prone to order out or cook at home? Would you be interested in cookbooks, kitchen utensils, and the like? If so, anything specific?

I try to cook at least 4 nights a week. However, that has been tough lately since J is working nights at the taproom and when he has a night off, he usually wants to take me out. So, what I have been cooking has been less individual meals than batches of things I can freeze and then re-heat in single portions. A cookbook designed for that would be aces. I could also always use things to teach me more about cooking decent: Indian, Thai, Japanese, Middle Eastern, Russian and Hungarian (my latest obsession). Little kitchen gadgets are always welcome as are spices, etc. Really, you can't go wrong with any sort of cooking/food related item with me. I love to eat (and eat well) and in order to do that, I need to cook!

 

New question: How do you feel about maple syrup?

Real maple syrup is amazing and one of the reasons I think a higher power must exist.

 

How do people feel about little pocket shrines, maybe something inspirational/motivational to keep in their purses/backpacks/whatever? (Like these: http://www.art-shrin...cketshrines.htm)

I can't get that link to work, but in general I think they are pretty cool. I received an amazing one in the Altered Altoid tin exchange which houses my rosary and is pretty amazing. It has Queen of Heaven imagery and my words from an old I Believe thread.

 

Do you like Star Wars? Original Trilogy? Prequels? Spin-offs? Favorite characters?

Like, but am not obsessed with. I didn't really like the prequels (the story of Anakin was a lot better in my head) and have never seen/read the spin-offs. I would eventually like to read the Timothy Zahn books.

 

Do you like beef jerkey, I know some may be vegatarian, but where I live beef is a staple and beef jerkey abounds. If so do you it really thin, hard and crunchy or thicker and softer. (OK that borders on obscene)-

I like all of it. I also like venison jerky. And buffalo. And sausage!

 

Also do you like or racier ecards from time to time and do you need to be warned if something may be not safe to open at work.

Sure. A warning is nice, but maybe not 100% necessary.

 

Doctor Who? Yay or nay? (please don't make me cry by saying nay)

I am just starting to watch the first season of the "new" episodes (the season with Rose). It's OK. It doesn't blow me away yet, but is good for when I am ironing or something for back ground noise.

 

I have a couple spare Doctor Who stickers. If my witchee is a fan, would they like a couple Doctor Who stickers in their package?

I think these will find a home that loves them more than my house.

 

Anyone love Buffy/Angel?

I loved Buffy while it was on and the first season of Angel. I soured on Angel pretty quickly. I still enjoy Buffy, but am probably not a fangirl.

 

How would you feel about gummies? Like, gummy bears? Gummy werewolves? Gummy vampires?

I don't hate them, but quite honestly they would probably be eaten by my small children friends rather than by me.

 

How would you feel about a totally original Gela-skin for your laptop/iPod/phone? Stickers? Decals?

I don't need one for my kindle and I do not have an iPad or iPhone. My laptop is worked issued, so stickers are a no-no.

 

Since this is a Halloween round, what's your Creepy threshold? Are you a cartoon bats and smily pumpkins person or a skulls-and-bones the-dead-are-rising kind of person? Are your fairytales dark or Disney?

Dark fairy tales and skulls all the way. BUT I don't watch horror movies.

 

Are your ears pierced, Witchee? Do you have any other piercings? Would you like to receive any items of jewelry for these piercings?

I have traditional pierced ears (one hole in each lobe).

 

How do you all feel about Whoopie Pies?

Love.

 

Are you looking for a certain kind of DVDs to spruce up your collection right now?

My collection is very wee. I can't think of anything in particular, but really any of the traditional 80s movie staples (Pretty in Pink, etc, Goonies, etc) would be awesome and get watched.

 

Does anyone like postcards? Is anyone willing to be a Nacho witch for postcards?

I like them all right. Don't think my area really offers any...

 

Anyone going to see any good concerts this fall?

Nothing on my schedule until the Nutcracker at Christmas.

 

Do you like Star Trek? Original TV series, films, spinoff series, etc? Favorite characters?

Yes. I like Original, TNG, the new film and Deep Space 9. Never watched voyager. Still love Dr. McCoy the best. He got all the best lines.

 

Witchee, would you like a framed photograph and of what?

Sure! I have no concrete ideas of what... Classic shots of New Orleans and Boston are always good, as are shots of famous bookstores.

 

Do you wear t-shirts? Are there particular things you like on them? Would you like one designed by your Witch? And, if you don't mind saying, what size t-shirt do you wear?

Yes. I also love long sleeved t-shirts and thermal t-shirts. I have no real preferences as to design except to say that I don't love anything too cutesy. (Example: I have an old Naughty t-shirt from the lab I never wear because it is too cutesy for me. The Lab shirt I wear the most is the old Mead Moon with the distressed honey comb on it. I tend to like abstract designs, or simple designs like ravens or owls. I think my etsy has some t-shirts in it that are a good style guide.) I tend to wear either a small or a medium - GIRL CUT. (I have hips. Regular or straight cut t-shirts bunch on them.) The choice between small and medium and based less on overall fit than on length. I like them long enough to cover my waist and not ride up. If my witch wants, I can measure a few of my favorites so you know just how long that should be in an ideal world.

 

How do you feel about pumpkin scented things? Not perfume related, but soap, candles, etc....

I like it. Especially with ginger and spice!

 

Has anyone else heard of or does anyone else love Glamourkin?

I had not heard of them, but looked, loved and favorited!

 

If you had an international witch, is there anything you would like from the UK? (Or Australia, Belgium, France any other country we have witches from.

Nothing in particular, but I do love the uniqueness of international things. Little stuff like chocolate, tea, cookies etc. Chances are, if it's unique to where you are and I can't get it here, I will squee over it.

 

Dear witchee, if you answered 'Mac' to the Mac/PC question previously issued by another participant, please tell me what kind of computer you have, what peripherals you own (like the wireless trackpad, wireless vs/wired keyboard and mouse), and whether you're interested in Apple-related items (stickers, keychains, other things with the logo, etc).

I have a work issued MacBook Pro. 15 inch? Is that the smallest? I don't own any peripherals. I'm not a huge Apple accessory person, but my husband very much is. He has an Apple sticker on his car!

 

SOCK PREFERENCES? I think I sorta covered this on my swap faery help post, but I like knee socks, rights and mid-calf socks. Stripes and argyle and other designs are great. I like some stretch because I have chicken legs and they stay up better. Really, I just love socks.

 

Would you like/wear a pair of these? http://www.ravelry.c...rary/yoga-socks If so, what color?

The would be nice for yoga AND for on my (slippery) stairs! I like blue, green turquoise, black, purple, red....

 

Is there anyone here who likes toe socks? You know, those socks with a place for each toe?

Sadly, they tend to give me blisters because I curl my toes.

 

What strange misc. items would you love to receive that you just haven't gotten for yourself?:

This one is throwing me for a loop. I think it's all covered in my various wishlists? If not, maybe a more specific question? I just can't figure out how to answer this. Sorry!

 

How do you feel about franken polish? Are you okay with all chemicals, or would you prefer 3 free? Would you want glitter or holographic glitter? What colors would interest you?

I don't really use polish except occasionally on my toes. Chemicals don't bother me. I don't really know what Franken Polish is.

 

Dear witchee, how do you feel about lip balm? Favorite style (twist up tube, pot, tube with wand, etc.)? Favorite flavors? Flavors to avoid? Favorite brand? Do you need more right now or are you set? Are you one of those people who could never have enough lip balm even though you have a bowl on your dresser overflowing with them and 10 in your purse and an order for more on the way?

I have enough lip balm to last me for a good decade. That said, if you can find a lip balm that accentuates my natural color in the way the old CoverGirl lip balms in the pale green tube (they came in pale, medium and dark and were billed as "working with your natural lip color") did, I would love it. The Burt's Bees kind of sort of does, but not really. And most tinted ones sit on the lips funny -- they cover natural color not accentuate it. That silly CG stuff was THE BEST and the only lip color I used faithfully. I am so sad it got discontinued. I used the medium and was devoted to it. (I should specify that this stuff came out some time between 1997 and 2000 and was discontinued around 2001 or 2002.)

 

Would you be interested in getting fountain pen inks or art supplies via JetPens and or DickBlick? (I know I have a wishlist on JetPens and just love using fountain pens in my artwork)

I am not neat enough to use a fountain pen. My favorite pens in the whole world are Pilot Precise V5 Extra Fine Rolling Ball -- the kind with the little window in them to show the ink level. I always, always need them and my husband and I fight over them. I steal his and he steals mine. They are the best pen for preventing hand cramps and writing fatigue for me.

 

-For those interested in watercolors, how would you feel about getting a palette filled with paint from my watercolor tubes but not getting the paint tube itself? (kind of like this but without the covers for the compartments and bigger http://www.flickr.co.../in/photostream)

I am so no artistic. However, sidewalk chalk, finger paints and washable markers could live in the toy box at my house for my nephew and god-daughter.

 

-How do you feel about getting art supplies in general? (copic markers, watercolor, brushes, paint, sketchbooks etc.)

See above. I'm not artistic, but I do try to keep some kid-friendly coloring books and supplies about for when I have small visitors.

 

-How do you feel about Threadless tshirts?

I like the less cutesy, more abstract ones. However, as we're approaching winter I really like long sleeved Ts the best. Does threadless make any? I seem to live in my two brewery (Equinox and Odell) long sleeve thermal Ts every weekend all winter.

 

If you were turned loose in a basic drug store (CVS, Walgreens - a pharmacy with attached mini-mart, basically!) with a $20 bill, what would you pick up?

Honestly? Probably vitamins and calcium! I'd be tempted by the "salon only" shampoos and conditioners that they carry illegally(?) but would probably end up being practical.

 

Darling Witchee, would you enjoy farmer's market pickled veggies (green beans, garlic, asparagus, etc) or fresh canned peaches or something of that nature?

YES.

 

Do you prefer color or white photographs? Nature or abstract?

Generally, I like color better because I think it pops more on a wall. I like nature better, but I also like abstract nature. Example: My husband took a picture of the inside of a tree covered in vines. The light shines through the leaves turning them gold and shiny. It's gorgeous.

 

would you be interested in something like this?

https://lostcrates.com/how-it-works

In theory yes, but not stationary. I just don't use it enough. The idea of a quiz generated box of stuff is fun though.

 

Amigurumi, yes or no?

Sadly, no.

 

 

I have a question! What are some of your favorite paintings? (famous or undiscovered?) Feel free to link to examples!

I like the Pre-Raphaelites, especially Rossetti's Beata Beatrix. I also like portraits -- John Singer Sargent is a favorite. I especially love Madam X. (I also really like his Girl Fishing -- all that lovely blue!)

 

If you could have an image painted for you - sky is the limit - what would it be?

I have no idea.

 

Name your 3 favorite scents for candles

I really love the Luna scent from Archipelago Botanicals. It's lemon verbena, lavender and thyme -- very clean and fresh. I also love the Stonehenge scent from the same company - smoked cedarwood, bermot and amber. It is very comforting and warm without being cloying. For the Christmas season I also like AB's Black Forest candles which are douglas fir, ebony wood and black currant. From Yankee, I like the Sage Citrus which is also really clean and fresh.

 

Name your 3 favorite types/flavors of tea

Oolong

Earl Grey

Lady Londonderry

 

Would you like any ecotools makeup brushes? They're kinda one of my favorite things ever, and they're animal-friendly and the handles are bamboo. And to top it all off, they work really well for applying makeup.

I don't really use makeup, so probably not.

 

Do you like Legos? Especially mini-fig key chains, Lego block keychains, small Lego sets, etc?

I'm not a lego fiend.

 

Since the previous question about "what would you buy from the Lab if you had unlimited funds, etc" left WAY too much to the imagination with no limitations (my answer was pretty much BUY ALL THE THINGS!), what would you do if you found a $50 bill on the ground and a nagging voice in the back of your mind told you that you HAD to spend it on BPAL or else face Death. Also, say they had free shipping (LOL) so don't factor that in. What would you get? And spend it all! Or as close to $50 as you can get.

$50, huh?... Ok, here's the breakdown (I did three, one for bpal, one for bptp and one for the ideal world where you could combine orders from both sites)

 

BPAL

1 imp pack -$22

Contents: White Rider, Red Rider, Black Rider, Tombstone, Anne Bonnie & War

Then I would dither between a bottle of Safari ($28) and a replacement bottle of Vixen ($17.50). But, in the end, I'd probably go with Vixen so I had that extra $10 to buy two or three (depending on whether I want to come in just under or just over the $50) more imps: Velvet, Suhha Segara and O

 

BPTP

Soap: Port au Prince, Shub, & Snake oil ($8.50 x 3= $25.50)

Librarian t-shirt ($20)

Then I'd throw in a couple of magnets to get me to $50

 

 

Combined

1 imp pack as above ($22)

Soap: Shub (but I'd dither between that and P au P)

Bottle of Vixen

 

 

Are there any characters that you love or identify with?

Answered with quotes in the thread ---> Quotes from Maggie Smith Dowager Countess Grantham on Downton Abbey.

 

A question! If you are crafty, what's your personal art style? I'm not talking just about what art you like to look at, but what kind of art do you like creating? Do you have a "process" while you're creating beauty?

I am the opposite of craft.

 

Are there any Arcana Weenies that you MUST HAVE?

I haven't even looked at them. But I tend to like their soap way better than their perfume.

 

So what say you? IS an "unexpected" visit/in-person witching OK?

Hmmm. I want to say yes, but given where I live making an unexpected visit would be rather impractical since we're near nowhere. I would think a little notice would make the visit easier since I could have fresh sheets on the guest bed.

 

Cthulhu: yay or nay?

Generally yay, although I do think squid may be inching into the over-played territory.

 

Is there something that you wish you could do, but you keep putting it off?

Hmm...Travel? Pay off debt? Build bookshelves in the little bedroom? Cut my hair?

 

Put your current mp3player (I am the anti-apple, so no ipod ), winamp playlist, what have you, on shuffle, list the first 10 songs:

My iPod has been dead for months and I rarely listen to music. I know that's totally unhelpful, but its true. My office is in a public radio building that hosts a news station and a classical station. One or the other is on all the time.

 

Witchee, have you made (or are you planning to make) any Lab or Trading post orders soon? And if you did (or plan to), you should share what you're getting

If I do, it will only be for my witchee. I'm not planning on buying for me any time soon.

 

Do you have any interest in rocks? Not like, polished colorful stones.. but like... rocks. With geologic significance!

Only the ones I pick up myself on the beach.

 

If your witch were to knit you a scarf/shawl/cowl, which would you prefer, and what features would you want? Would you prefer something light and drape-y or thick and warm? What kind of colors would you prefer? Do you have any fiber allergies or preferences?

That is kind of like asking me what kind of cheese I want! I do think thick and warm is probably more practical for me than light and drape-y since my office and house both tend to be super cold and drafty. I like jewel tones (blue, green, turquoise, red), black and grey. The only fiber preference I have is for something that does not shed. Mohair and the like are just such a mess.

 

If you have a pet, could you please post a photo of it? I really need to see what your pet, if you have one, looks like.

No pets, although I was tempted to post a picture of J!

 

Do you like/own/wear/want fairy wings or something of the like?

I do not own, I do like, but don't really want. Back in the days when I did loads of renaissance festivals when J was active the wands, they would have been perfect. Now, I'm afraid they'd never get used.

 

How do you feel about terrariums?

I have never thought about them enough to have feelings.

 

What's your favorite horror movie?

Watcher in the Woods. Yes, Disney horror is about my speed.

 

If your witch was the practical type and wanted to include one or more of your everyday essentials, what would those include? I'm talking about the bath products, lotions, face lotions, teas, food, etc that you really use every day.

This was actually my question, but I did answer it anyway: Nice bar soap, Suave Rosemary/Mint shampoo/conditioner, Neutrogena Fresh Foaming cleanser, Paula's Choice Skin Balancing Toner, 2% beta gel & Clear Regular strength treatment, no rub contact solution, clear mascara, oolong tea, Clif bars (esp. chocolate mint and crunchy peanut butter) and Rooster Sauce.

 

Jane Austen .. Yay or Nay?

Yay, but not obsessive fan girl yay. More like gentle appreciation yay.

 

I put up quotes I love in my office and studio to get me going, They range from goofy to sarcastic to inspirational... Are you interested in a hand painted quote? Do you have one in mind, or a topic in mind?

I am not opposed. I can't think of a specific topic. I tend to photocopy Dilbert strips for my office...

 

Do you like period or period-styled paraphernalia? Stuff like postcards, notecards, jewelry, office supplies, what-have-you?

Yes! Especially jewelry and clothing, but office supplies might be kind of cool.

 

If you like manga, comics, and/or graphic novels, what is it about them that you like, in general? The story, the art/style, etc?

I have never gotten into them.

 

If you could choose a Smack, what would it have in it?

See my swap faery help list. I think I set out some wishlist smack combos there.

 

if you could have a salon scent made, based on any artwork(s) what would it be?

Oddly, I don't think I would. You see, the kind of art I like really doesn't translate into the way I like to smell. I like resinous fiery scents, but I like green, blue and cool toned art. I'm afraid my favorite art would all be floral, aquatic or herbal, none of which I wear well.

 

Are you scientifically curious and/or process-oriented? Would you like a project-type gift that allowed you do do something like make soap from scratch, take and (nontoxic-ly) develop photographs using a pinhole camera, use plant dyes on yarn or fabric, etc.?

I think I'd enjoy making soap or something like that -- after all, I like to cook and it seems similar to me. But anything more artistic like photography or yarn dying is probably beyond my crafty capabilities.

 

What's 'your' song/your theme song?

Evil Woman by ELO. Or Secret Agent Man by Johnny Rivers. Or Watching the Detective by Elvis Costello. My song with my husband is I Love Being Here With You as sung by Peggy Lee.

 

What would be your superpower?

Reading minds.

 

Witchee, would you like a gently used BPAL tshirt?

Sure would. I am a fan of gently used in general.

 

Do you like homemade snack mixes? I know Puppy Chow was mentioned in a previous question, but what about healthier and more natural type snacks like granola or trail mix? You can put a lot of delicious and fun things into trail mix, yeah? If you say "Sure, I'd love some!" what kinds of things do you like/not like in those kinds of snacks, ie coconut flakes, raisins, certain nuts (allergies??), candy, etc. Give us your list of DO's and DON'Ts!

Really, I like everything. I do like my trail mix fairly heavy on the nuts and light on the fruit/choc chips/candy, but there was this one trail mix at Sunflower in CO that had chocolate covered sesame seeds in it that was amazing. I also like pepitas. And tamari nuts and wasabi nuts and peas.

 

Do you like charm bracelets? If you had a bracelet, what sort of charms would you want on it? Favorite hobbies, symbols, whatever?

I don't tend to wear bracelets because my wrists are so tiny I can never find them to fit. That said, if I were given charms I would like: books, a bike, a raven, a fox, a tree, a moon and stuff like that.