Gateau

In the imp -- jasmine and fruity sweetness Wet -- jasmine is one of my most frequent death notes, but here it's not too bad. It's tendency to go skanky on me is cut with the apricot and vanilla Dry -- it's quite nice for a while, with the apricot and vanilla ramping down the jasmine. But at the end, as with most jasmine things, it sours. I never got much ginger impression.

Imp -- floral or fruity, light leather Wet--fairly generic, the touch of leather Dry--this opens up beautifully. Much less boozy than I'd expected, plenty of leather and tobacco for dryness but soft, a touch spicy. I really like it, more than I'd expected to.

Started some wishlists: JetPens: http://www.jetpens.com/wishlist?wish_list_id=a6b6acb29df3ffab UPDATE: Just wanted to list some items I'm especially wanting right now: 5 ml. of Hermia and Lady Una. Testers of Liz, High-Strung Daisies, Detestable Putrescence, Victoria, Defututa, Gingerbread Poppet, Gluttony, Cake Smash, Halloween: Las Vegas. Also very interested in Villainess Smack and Smooch -- Bourbon Vanilla especially, but other combos with my favorite notes too New obsession: Chimera Social media: I am gateau on Twitter, also TasteTheDay, but that's for more limited use. Just opened a Livejournal account under gateauesq but nothing there yet. Most Wanted Weenies: I've joined decant circles for Autumn Cider, Pumpkin Latte, Pumpkin Princess, Samhain, Sonnet d'Automne, and Silver, Golden, and Glittering Apples. Am also interested in Elegy IX, Mictecuithuatl (definitely misspelled), The Changeling, An Incubus Leaving..., The Gorobble, The Ta-Ta, and The Two-Tailed Sogg. Debating about Blood Moon as we speak. Nail Polish: yes, yes, oh my god yes. I love nail polish, from high end down to cool glitters you find for a dollar. I wear a lot of OPI, Essie, Sally Hansen, and Zoya, and especially love earth-tone metallics, duochromes, and winey colors. Anything shimmery and sparkly gets my love, even though I'm too old to wear it, really. Illamasqua Bacterium and Viridian are on my wishlist. Quote: "In life I know there is lots of grief. But your love is my relief." has always spoken to me of the power of love. I sing it to my kids a lot. Dream Candle: I don't use scented candles as much as I used to, but I had a candle I loved once that was some kind of soft tree bark, not piney or sassafras sharp, but mellow and woodsy. I also love spice scents for candles. Knitted Gifts: YES PLEASE! I am a knitter myself, so I really hope there is a general consensus that knitted gifts rock. I would love a new winter hat, gloves or mittens, or fingerless gloves. I have a brown coat and a black coat, so any color, really. I tend to go for rich colors that are not primary-bright -- earthy or jewel. Would you be interested in homemade edibles that are NOT sweets? Any specifics? This is my question, but I will say yes, definitely. I do love my sweets, but I'm very into savories. Soup mixes, chutneys, seasoned salts or spice blends, pickles, all that good stuff. Do you make cheese or cure your own bacon? HELL TO THE YEAH. What GC do you live in mortal terror of the lab discontinuing, but never get around to buying? Just discovered how much I like Bengal, so it would suck if I never got to buy it. Yo, yarnies! Do you Ravelry? If so, who are you over thar? Yes and yes! I am momesq on Ravelry. Do you have wishlists for non-BPAL e-tailers? And if so, could you provide a link or a list? Etsy: http://www.etsy.com/people/jessicamg/favorites?ref=si_fav I should update Amazon. I'm not good at regularly updating these, so use them as a way to understand my taste more than specific wants. Witchee, do you use a PC or a Mac? Mac at home, PC at work. What is your favorite animal? I love animals that rock their iridescence -- dragonflies, butterflies, peacocks, etc. I am also quite fond of ladybugs. What are you going to be for Halloween? Probably a harassed and aggravated mother of three. But usually I at least try to put on a funny hat or pair of fairy wings and some glitter. 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.) I have a dragonfly scent locket, but would love a peacock item. I also love woman-in-the-moon themes. How do you feel about nick-knacks? I really should not add to the clutter in my house, but I do love beautiful objects. What traditions (family, holiday, or otherwise) are important to you? I am very big on family traditions and personal rituals. We don't do anything terribly esoteric in our family, but I love the way we celebrate birthdays by decorating the person's chair at the breakfast table and giving gifts first thing. Love Christmas stockings, lighting the Hanukkah candles, and pulling Christmas crackers and then wearing the silly hats. Oh, and our "happy birthday to the sun" cake and Yule celebration. Do you like going to the movies? Oh yes, wish I went more often. What are your favorite restaurants? I eat out pretty often at places in my town, and I love Japanese, Mexican, and Thai the best. I don't eat in chains much, but I think Olive Garden, Panera, and Cosi are pretty good when I do. Do you play any video games? I play Wii games, I loved Myst, and I play a lot of online Scrabble. Do you like any anime? Not my thing. Do you have an E-reader/iPad/something similar that you need a cover/case for? I have a Kindle 2 that has a silicone sleeve and an iPad 2. The iPad just has that magnetic cover, and I think I might like a case for it that protects it in my bag, but nothing bulky. 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? SO MUCH! I would be beside myself with excitement. How would you like to receive some of your Witch's favorite recipes, tailored to your likes/dietary restrictions? And specific wants? I'd love that, as I love to cook and try new recipes. 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 desperately need BPAL storage, for bottles and imps. I have no decanting supplies, but would love some and a box to keep them in. Muppets: yea or nay? If anyone is tired of the Muppets she is tired of life. Original viewer of Sesame Street, here. Do you have an affinity for Calvin and Hobbes, Peanuts, The Far Side, and other comic strips? If so, which is your favorite? I enjoy them, but I wouldn't say I'm a huge fan. The Peanuts will always have a place in my heart, because they were a big part of my childhood. I also still crack up at Far Side cartoons. Favorite Mythological Creature?: I'm pretty fascinated by Medusa, not that I'd exactly call her a favorite. On the more positive side, I have a strong affinity for Lady Moon-type figures. Do you like hair things barrettes, headbands, flowers I do! But I have very thick curly hair, so anything I wear has to be pretty strong. Like, little bobby pins and thin headbands do nothing and fall right out. Expanding on the hair question - does anyone like those flower clips for the hair that are big right now?? Pretty! Do you like to burn incense? If so, what are your favorite kinds...sticks? cones? resins? What are your favorite scents? No, I'm not much of an incense person. Harry Potter - a fan? If so, what house are you? I've read all the books, but I'm not a big fan. I never really understood the differences between Ravensclaw and Hufflepuff (they always read as afterthoughts to me) but figure I'm not evil enough or cool enough to be Slytherin or Gryffindor so I'd be in one of the others. If you were to receive a gift card, what places would you like to get one from? Sephora, any major department store, Michael's, Joann Fabrics, Amazon, iTunes Is there a particular myth/folktale/legend/fairytale/godstory that you're drawn to? This isn't exactly that, but I'm very into A Midsummer Night's Dream 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! No, I don't. RP, I mean. 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! I would love to take a tour through the great moments in theater history -- 5th Century Athens, the Dionysian rites, Shakespeare's theater company, the riots at L'Apres Midi d'un Faun, opening night of Carrie.... When you are having a really rough day, what do you like to do/have to make it a little brighter? After a good solid cuddle with my kids, I really do like a cocktail or glass of wine. What are your thoughts on comics? Any you like? Any you have been wanting to try? Favorite characters? I'm not very into comics. There are certain artists, like Allison Bechdel and Art Spiegelman, whose work I really love. Are you musical? Do you play an instrument, and if so, what? If not, what do you wish you could play or do? I have had musical training all my life, and many musicians in my family, but nothing ever really took. I'd like to take up guitar again, and progress enough to play an electric guitar. Also, now that we have a piano, I'm thinking of taking lessons again. 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 garden, in a very ad hoc way. I'm good with tomatoes and herbs, and would like to branch out a bit into more successful vegetables and fruits. My hydrangeas are gorgeous, and I love all kinds of flowering shrubs and bulbs. Do you decorate for Halloween? Is your decorating taste elegant, kitschy and fun, or scary? We do decorate, though not lavishly. I'd say it's mostly fun, but with relatively good taste. I don't like the scary killer/monster stuff. I'm more into pumpkins, skulls, bats, cauldrons, etc. Witchee, do you have any symbols or totems that have special meaning for you? The woman in the moon. I have her tattooed on my back. Is anyone fond of programs like Adopt a Tree/Highway/Library/Manatee/Acre of Rainforest/etc?: Never done them, but they sound excellent. What #1 actor, director, author and/or musician are you obsessed with? I wouldn't say obsessed. There are many I like and will go on little tears from time to time to catch up with their work. are you interested in anything from the Villainness Bad Apples update? Only just getting into Villainess, and thinking about a first order. Just Right sounds delicious. 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? I have two cats. I think they'd love a little something stuffed with catnip. They don't really need gifts, though, as they get to out out and find whatever they want when they want it. 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 have recently realized that dry, non-foodie vanilla is a HG scent for me, along with vanilla orchid. So I'd love to try Antique Lace, get more Celeste, and of course, like everyone in the world, I'd love to try Storyville. 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? I'd love a print of the Lilith in my avatar! I'm a fan of that entire genre of painting, and I also love Klimt. Sadly don't have a ton of wall space so absolute max is probably 2'x3' framed. 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? Way, way, way into beauty stuff. I seem to be collecting eyeshadows, not that I generally wear a lot more than neutrals, but I have a thing for iridescent blues, greens, and purples, and neutrals with any of those as duochromes (like MAC Club). Always open to fun and interesting stuff from indie companies. On the commercial side, I'd love a UD 24/7 liner in Zero, NARS eyeshadow in Dogon, Armani Eyes to Kill in khaki or plum, MAC Jealousy Wakes, Dark Envy, Bare Study, or the new color Paint Pots. I think I don't love most lipgloss (though I just got a Gloss d'Armani in Plum that I love, and would love another of the deep colors) and tend to prefer sheer/satin/velvet lipsticks. I'm a natural redhead with medium-fair skin, MAC NW 20-25. Oh, and sort of getting into blushes and highlighters lately. Do you like coffee or tea? Would you be interested in trying some different types? I LUUUUV coffee and tea. I don't care much for flavored coffees, and adore rich, caramelly strong blends and espresso. Black tea is my favorite, though I also love Moroccan mint tea. I prefer loose tea to tea bags. Open to flavored teas. 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) I think I prefer CDs, because then both my husband and I can add them to our iTunes accounts easily, though I also am happy to get in MP3 format. Stuff I keep meaning to buy and never get around to: Adele, Raul Malo, Josh Ritter Are you going away for any part of this round? No, but I wish I were. Might take a quick trip to Washington, DC. Would you like to receive a mix-CD from your Witch? I'd love that! I'm always open to learning about music I don't know. If your witch were going somewhere on a vacation during the round, would you want a little souvenir? I adore travel souvenirs! Postcards, snow globes, key chains, that sort of stuff. Do you enjoy any outdoor activities? Do you have a favorite form of "exercise"? I really enjoy walking, especially if a picnic can be expected at some point! Being outdoors is wonderful, but I truly hate exercise for exercise's sake. Occasionally I might ride a bike somewhere. Other exercise I like is indoor (not that, you perv!) like yoga or Pilates. Any witchee's with a ravelry account have any favourited patterns that cost money that would be a welcome gift? I will be updating that list, because I do love patterns. Do you work/study at a desk and enjoy interesting or cute office supplies? I do! Anything from Muji is great, and I love odd post-it notes, pretty paperclips, fun pencils and pens, highlighters, Sharpies. Witchee, are you a fan of musicals? If so, which ones? My first experience in a musical (South Pacific) in camp led me to pursue a theater career. So yes, I love musicals. Soft spot for Rodgers & Hammerstein, but my taste is more in the Kander & Ebb world these days, plus I'm a Hedwig and the Angry Inch fanatic. Rocky Horror, too. 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 pro-lightly used goods, but I do have a fear of the bedbug. So books, art, glasswear, music, games, jewelry are all OK. Pillows, fabric, clothing, shoes, not so much. Do you have an Etsy shop? Do you know of any Etsy shops that are Switch Witch friendly? Only in my dreams! Would a gift or a postcard from Disneyland make you squee with delight or puke into your mail box? Really depends on the gift. I sort of loathe Mickey Mouse and friends, but the Alice/Cinderella/Peter Pan/Pirates/Haunted Mansion/Small World stuff is great. what are your favorite types of Halloween candy? Anything caramel, anything gummy, anything sour. I also like Fireballs, candy corn, hard candy. Do you prefer soap or shower gel? Please give examples of your favorite scents or brands. I prefer soap. I like pink grapefruit, mint, other citrus, lavender, and oatmeal, especially with something scrubby in the soap. How do you like your chocolate? For example with nuts, mint, peanut butter, caramel? LOVE caramel, especially salted caramel. I'm good with nuts and peanut butter, but really don't like mint. Toffee is good. So is spice. I enjoy dark chocolate, but I'd choose good milk chocolate over the super high cocoa content stuff that doesn't melt in your mouth. Mouthfeel is important with chocolate! Beads! Do you use them? Would you want some? What sorts of beads do you like? I'm not a very good beader, but I enjoy it. Anything sparkly, antiqued, or iridescent is my favorite. What I'd adore is a little homemade kit of a beading project with all the stuff you need (other than tools) to put it together. Anyone here like caramels? Sea salted caramels?!?! ALL YOUR SALTED CARAMELS ARE BELONG TO US!!!!!! Uh, yeah. Would you like a hand dyed or hand painted scarf or wrap or other item? If so, what colors/designs/fabrics do you like? I'd love that! I especially like jewel tones and earth tones combined, and I love black. This was a question before, but does anyone here like stones? Just pretty polished stones for use in whatever purposes? I do! And my kids are fascinated by them. And another question; anyone like anything in particular from Think Geek? I enjoy their desk accessories. Not so much the novelty items. Pinterest, do you have boards you want to share or are you following anyone with great boards you want to share? Not on Pinterest (yet) Would you like to receive e-books? And if so, in what format? Love them! I have Kindle and iPad. 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? I have three boys, but they always get the presents! I want the presents! Well, maybe a little something, like a knitted monster or a funny t-shirt. My oldest (age 9) loves BPAL and already has his own bottle of Embalming Fluid and imp of Antikythera Mechanism. He also loves rocks and gems. The middle one, age 5, loves foodie scents like Anne Beany. The baby is 9 months and just ends up wearing what I'm wearing. 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 love felted handbags, and was particularly taken with the one with bamboo handles. I like the structure and the embellishment. Are there are patterns, motifs, etc that you especially like? I like: paisley, Missoni-like waves, Klimt-like patterns (recently needlepointed a pillow with those designs). I like things that combine multiple patterns, a sort of bohemian eclectic hodgepodge. Witchee, would you be interested in having a special tea cup/coffee mug/glass to drink out of? 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? Black tea, flavored OK as long as it's natural kind of flavors (fruits can be either great or iffy, depending on how artificial). I drink loose tea, but compressed is kind of neat. One of my favorite teas is Baker Street Afternoon Blend from Upton Tea Co., which I mention just as inspiration, not because I am angling for more of it. It's got a touch of Lapsang Souchong. I also like quality Earl Grey. How would you feel about kitchen towels and other similar household objects, if they are pretty or a souvenir? I like them. If they're cute and practical, they're a great gift. How did you dress up for your last party or compulsory-formal-dress occasion? Not too many formal dress parties in my life lately, but we have a dinner party group that gets together regularly. Last time we did Greek cuisine, so I went with Aegean Disco -- drapey black dress, too much gold eyeshadow, and a lot of black eyeliner, with my already big curly hair even bigger and curlier. Do you enjoy puzzles/riddles? (Cryptograms, Sudoku, Crossword, Jigsaw, etc) Do. Not. Get. the appeal of Sudoku. I love the New York Times crossword puzzle, but even more love doing the Acrostic. And there is something really enjoyable to me about doing jigsaw puzzles. I generally like putting lots of pieces together, which is why I am the household's designated putter-together of Playmobil toys. Witchee, would you be interested in having a special tea cup/coffee mug/glass to drink out of? I am pretty well covered with mugs, though I could use the type of travel mug or cold drink glass that looks like a take-out cup with lid but is made of plastic/ceramic/silicone. Can you sum yourself (whether it be personality, life's goals, ethics, whatever) in 10 words or less? Ack, I'm always bad at that sort of thing. I am wordy, how's that? How about little bottles of booze? Ya wanna? What kind? I would never say no to booze! Especially fun to try flavored vodkas or cordials that you can use to make interesting new cocktails. 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.) Not a huge fudge fan, as I find it overly sweet and kind of grainy. I do adore brownies, though, the chewier the better. I need to get one of those zigzag pans that allow each piece to have an edge -- the best part. Also, what about mochi? Love it, hate it, baffled by it? I find the idea often better than the execution. Anything from the update ya'll are liking? BPTP UPDATE Sugar Skull soap, fig/sandalwood hair oil. Does anyone like kimchi? I love anything hot, pickled, or sour, so yes. Would you be interested in a sample box(from somewhere like Birchbox or loosebutton)? I just terminated my Birchbox subscription because I was getting a lot of indifferent stuff that didn't seem worth it. I'd love a custom-made sample box by my Witch, though! You have to place a Lab and Trading Post order. Right fuckin' now. No spending limits. What do you buy? That is evil! OK, right now I want Sachs, Dorian, Mr. Quibit and Tree of Life for my husband, Pallas Athene, Mouse's Long and Sad Tale, all four of the new Weenie soaps, several hair oils, and probably a bunch of Salons. Oh, and I'd try Blood Moon. Paintbox Soapworks - anything you're interested in, in general or from the latest update? New to me, and now I'm hungrily looking through the offerings. I would say I'd love to try, and would pick things on my good notes list, like peony, vanilla, apricot, peach, orchid, light musk, and so on. Cicada, Silken Peony and Indian Summer sound DEEEVINE. Do you guys have any sports that you follow obsessively? How about favorite teams and/or athletes Not a sports fan, though I don't mind tagging along with others who are. How do you feel about notebooks/journals/stationery? Anything you need or particularly like? I'm a bit of a hoarder of notebooks, Clair Fontaine being my favorites because they're so nice to write on with a fountain pen. I always use fountain pens, so smooth, heavy paper is a must. Does confetti/glitter make you angry or fill you with glee? Unadulterated glee. Fabulous witches and witchees, perhaps you all could note of you've received MeiLin's goodies? Or if you want? Have not 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? Not a big user of these myself. I do like soft pillows, though. how interested would you be on somewhat personalized bottle cap labels? Like these that I did? When you're miserably sick (*sniffle, cough!*) what are the things that comfort you the most? Staying in bed and having someone bring me everything I might need, including soup and tea. There is nothing worse than having to get up to take care of myself and others when I feel sick. What constitutes ultimate luxury to you? (go crazy!) TIME. Oh, just to have oodles of time to putter around and be self-indulgent. Travel. Really good hotel rooms with supersoft bedding and giant baths, with breakfast on the terrace. To be able to afford to buy any book that strikes my fancy, in hardcover, without giving a single thought to price or having to find enough room on the bookshelves. One of those giant libraries in old mansion houses would be my ultimate dream. What do you really NOT want? Soap that smells like play-doh. Incense. Marshmallows. interested in anything from Lush? Not a giant Lush fan, but I've always wanted to try the Jasmine-Henna Fluff Eaze hair cream. Do you blog? Would you like a header for your blog, a layout, etc? I do blog, but this isn't a high priority. Would you be interested in a handmade bookmark? I hardly ever use more than a piece of scrap paper as a bookmark. 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? Sounds yum, but not very Weight-Watchers-friendly! 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 don't really use Groupon much. It would depend. do you like real sugar skulls? Things with sugar skull designs? Sure! Who here adores meringue? It's OK, not my top favorite. 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 do both, so I'm always up for cooking items. I do have most of what I need, though. I could use new potholders, as boring as that sounds. New question: How do you feel about maple syrup? Love the extra dark stuff. Not a big fan of maple-flavored things otherwise. 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) Neat idea! Do you like Star Wars? Original Trilogy? Prequels? Spin-offs? Favorite characters? Star Wars does nothing for me, ever since I saw the first one when it came out. 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 actually love it, chewy is best. Love it teriyaki style or spicy. 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. I wouldn't mind them, but would need a NSFW warning. Doctor Who? Yay or nay? (please don't make me cry by saying nay) Sorry! It's a nay. Anyone love Buffy/Angel? I got really into Buffy at the time, but didn't really sustain the love once it was over. I mean, I don't hate it now, but I don't think of it that often. How would you feel about gummies? Like, gummy bears? Gummy werewolves? Gummy vampires? Love gummies! How would you feel about a totally original Gela-skin for your laptop/iPod/phone? Stickers? Decals? Skin would be great, as mine are boring. I have a MacBook, iPhone 4, and iPad 2. 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? I like folk art sorts of creepydom, like Day of the Dead skeletons and so on. Not a fan of zombies, vampires, axe murderers, etc. 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 pierced ears and love earrings to a crazy degree. I have a navel piercing, but it's been a long time since I've worn anything in it, and probably would need to have jewelry professionally reinserted. How do you all feel about Whoopie Pies? Whoopie! Are you looking for a certain kind of DVDs to spruce up your collection right now? I'd love a copy of Singin' in the Rain! Does anyone like postcards? Is anyone willing to be a Nacho witch for postcards? I love postcards, sending and receiving. Do you like Star Trek? Original TV series, films, spinoff series, etc? Favorite characters? I'm afraid not. I did date someone who was a regular on one of the spinoffs, and it was embarrassing that I could just not bring myself to watch it, or refrain from teasing him constantly. Witchee, would you like a framed photograph and of what? I don't have a lot of wall space right now, sadly. 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? I wear them on weekends. Current favorite is my Born to Knit shirt, with the crossed needles and skull motif. Would love a specially designed one. Probably size M. How do you feel about pumpkin scented things? Not perfume related, but soap, candles, etc.... Not a top favorite. 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). Have an aging MacBook. Not that into the Apple items. SOCK PREFERENCES? Soft! Not a lover of the toe socks. Love designs as long as they're not to stringy inside. Cthulhu: yay or nay? Not really a fascination of mine. Is there something that you wish you could do, but you keep putting it off? Take the time to really buckle down and finish my novel based on A Midsummer Night's Dream. Put your current mp3player (I am the anti-apple, so no ipod ), winamp playlist, what have you, on shuffle, list the first 10 songs: Answered in thread. 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 In addition to the Weenie decants and samples of Sugar Skull soap and Fig-White Sandalwood hair oil, I just ordered myself a bottle of Sprinklecake. The reviews so far suggest I might really like it, and wanted to make sure I could get a backup if it turns out I love it. Also ordered Tree of Life for my husband for Xmas, though I suspect I'll be dipping into it as well. Do you have any interest in rocks? Not like, polished colorful stones.. but like... rocks. With geologic significance! My kids do, but I tend to go for the pretty instead of the significant. 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? I love hand-knit items! If a shawl, light and drapey is great, because I tend to wear them in the office when it's too chilly. I would also love a warm scarf or cowl, not too bulky, to wear with my camel wool coat and brown down coat. 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. Posted in thread. Do you like/own/wear/want fairy wings or something of the like? I had a pair that I can no longer find. My days of wearing stuff like that to parties are pretty well over, though it's fun to be able to put them on to entertain my children at their parties or Halloween. How do you feel about terrariums? They're pretty cool, but I have no place to keep one in my house. What's your favorite horror movie? Not a horror fan. I like suspense, though, of the Hitchcockian variety. 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. Posted in thread. Jane Austen .. Yay or Nay? I never actually read Sense & Sensibility or Pride & Predjudice, but I think I have them on my Kindle. 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 can't think of anything I'd want to see every day that would be office appropriate! Do you like period or period-styled paraphernalia? Stuff like postcards, notecards, jewelry, office supplies, what-have-you? LOVE Art Nouveau, Art Deco, Arts & Crafts/Mission. Also certain 60s design that brings a psychedelic touch to Art Nouveau style. 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 like graphic novels that treat serious subject matter (such as Maus, Fun Home). I think it's the authors' fully realized vision of words and visuals that appeals. Not a comics or manga fan otherwise. If you could choose a Smack, what would it have in it? Oh man, every one of them sounds delicious. I'm thinking something with Honey Nut, Vanilla Bean, Maybe a touch of Unearthed and Spice Trade. Or Vanilla Bean and Sugared Roses. Georgia Peach and Bluegrass? if you could have a salon scent made, based on any artwork(s) what would it be? Gustave Courbet's Woman With a Parrot or Picasso's Family of Acrobats with Monkey. 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.? Answered in thread, but in short, yes. Especially soap or cosmetics making. What's 'your' song/your theme song? Well, for my wedding it was Lyle Lovett's She's No Lady. Ziggy Stardust also gets me kind of juiced up. What would be your superpower? Being in multiple places at once. Or Samantha's ability to wrinkle her nose and have all the housework done in an instant. Witchee, would you like a gently used BPAL tshirt? I wouldn't mind, if it was a cute design and in my size. 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! Not a big snack mix person, but I do love almonds, dried fruit, and dark chocolate. Do you like charm bracelets? If you had a bracelet, what sort of charms would you want on it? Favorite hobbies, symbols, whatever? I have a gold charm bracelet that I adore. I collect gold and gold-toned charms, mostly vintage. Am trying to bring a little more color into it. Some charms I have are: pink shoe, corset, baby carriage, mailbox, red apple, Statue of Liberty, Scales of Justice, heart lockets, beaver. Would love charms for knitting, cooking (esp. egg and bacon in frying pan!), baby shoe, perfume bottle, gumball machine or other candy. 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 am pretty well set with brushes. Those are good, though! I have a few. Do you like Legos? Especially mini-fig key chains, Lego block keychains, small Lego sets, etc? Not so much -- my kids have pretty much taken this over. I do need a new keychain, so a Lego one might be a lot of fun. 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. A bottle of Lady Una and a bottle of Josie. Or maybe instead of the Josie, a bottle of Dorian, a couple of imps, and a few wand caps. Are there any characters that you love or identify with? Michael Dorsey/Dorothy Michaels in Tootsie. Because he's willing to go as far as he has to for love and for his art, and she's strong and smart with a good heart. 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? Answered in thread. Are there any Arcana Weenies that you MUST HAVE? Haint. Maybe Reign in Hell and Caffeinated Death. So what say you? IS an "unexpected" visit/in-person witching OK? Not such a good idea. What strange misc. items would you love to receive that you just haven't gotten for yourself? Scented fountain pen ink in a non-serious color (I already have J. Herbin rose). Sally Hansen nail polish decals. 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? Prefer 3 Free. I do enjoy glitter and holographic glitter, very into dark earthy colors with shimmer right now, like chocolate brown, gunmetal, golden olive. 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 need lip balm, but always forget to put it on, or lose them. So no preferred brand. I don't like the very stiff product you often find in tubes, though it's a convenient format if soft enough. Pots can get messy but the texture is good. No eucalyptus, mint, or very fake strawberry. Love honey and foodie flavors. 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) YES! YES! See JetPens wishlist at top of blog post. 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) Not really into watercolor -- I need to do things that can be whipped out or packed up with little fuss. How do you feel about getting art supplies in general? (copic markers, watercolor, brushes, paint, sketchbooks etc.) Sketchbooks, pencils, markers. How do you feel about Threadless tshirts? I'm not much of a t-shirt person. If I wear them, I like the design to be very graphic and in one or two colors. 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? Answered in thread. But probably Wet 'n' Wild, NYC, or Jesse's Girl cosmetics, Cover Girl Lip Perfection lipsticks, or a nice hair glaze. Darling Witchee, would you enjoy farmer's market pickled veggies (green beans, garlic, asparagus, etc) or fresh canned peaches or something of that nature? Love anything pickled. Do you prefer color or white photographs? Nature or abstract? Generally the images I love most are B&W. I prefer nature to abstract. would you be interested in something like this? https://lostcrates.com/how-it-works Sounds really cool! Amigurumi, yes or no? Sure, why not. I need to learn how to make them. I have a question! What are some of your favorite paintings? (famous or undiscovered?) Feel free to link to examples! Love Courbet, the Symbolists, the Pre-Raphaelites, Art Nouveau, Klimt, Schiele. If you could have an image painted for you - sky is the limit - what would it be? A portrait of me in the style of Klimt or the Pre-Raphaelites. Name your 3 favorite scents for candles Spice, non-piney woods, non-foodie vanilla. Name your 3 favorite types/flavors of tea Assam black tea, blends with a bit of Lapsang Souchong (like Baker Street Afternoon Blend from Upton), Moroccan mint. What is something people are always surprised to learn about you? That I wasn't always a lawyer! So who else watched Babylon 5? Nope. If you had to decide what your stripper name was, what would it be? Well if you do the pet/street thing I'd be Dusty Mackey, but I kind of like Anita Mann. Sooooo Witchees, have you ever taken that particular personality test? If so, are you an Analytical, a Driver, an Expressive or an Amiable? I'm terrible at these tests because I never want to pick just one answer. It really depends on the situation I'm in. Is anyone else afraid of or creepy out by dummies/puppets/Muppets/etc? Other things you're squicked/freaked by that's best left by the wayside? Ventriloquist dummies -- hate them. Love marionettes, Muppets, and almost all other types of puppets. On other squick, I am not a blood and guts lover. No horror stuff. what level of contact were you hoping for? As much as my Witch feels comfortable giving! I love contact, it makes me feel special, but I don't want it to be a burden. I'll take heartfelt quality over quantity. Are there any local museums/attractions you keep never getting around to going to? The Museum of the Moving Image in Astoria, Queens. Is there any kind of international candy you love or would like to try? Salted licorice from Europe. What is something totally random (yes, that thing that just popped into your head) that hasn't been covered by any previous questions? I love spa services and massages. Would love gift certificates for that, and home spa treatment items. Is there any cheesy/non-cheesy Canadian stuff you'd be interested in? Well, being as I married a Canadian, I get my hands on most of that stuff whenever I want. There are these folk art Mounties at a store in Vancouver I've had my eye on for years. In the non-cheesy category, I am seriously in love with the art of the First Nations from the Vancouver area. If you were to go here and create your very own chocolate bar, what might it have in it? Dark chocolate-lavender, Dark chocolate-caramel-sea salt, Dark chocolate-cayenne (or combine those last two) say you stumbled into Camp Half Blood (or whatever the Roman camp ends up being named <bounces in anticipation>), which god claims you? I'm a daughter of Athena, for sure. Stuff you've been meaning to do: take up guitar lessons again. Learn to make soap. Deal with my hideous crammed closets. Would you be interested in regional jams, jellies, or other preserves? Yes, I love that sort of thing, especially pickled stuff. Do you have any bedtime rituals? Is there any particular product you have to apply or a certain shirt you wear or an act you perform to get you in the "bedtime" mood? Usually I just collapse these days. I like to put on a short chemise type nightgown and read in bed. Lately I've been applying a bit of TKO and it seems to help. I only have an imp, though! Are you interested in today's/any recent Tee Fury shirts? Don't know these. Princess Bride? Yay or nay? YAY! Love the book, but was also quite taken with the movie. What's your favorite classic fairytale, witches Hansel & Gretel how do you feel about ethical animal fiber, i.e. wool and the like? I am good with all fibers What about little wee creatures for your desk or mantel? I like stuff for my desk in my office, but no space at home. Look down. What are you wearing, right now? When I posted in thread it was pretty dire. Today it's a green print dress from Boden and olive green t-strap platform heels Kerchiefs? No, thanks. It's the weekend, and you find yourself without a single chore or responsibility for a few hours. Right this very moment, what's the one thing you would do if you could do anything? Get into bed with a good book and a Tivo stuffed with good shows, and just let myself get absorbed, while noshing on some sweets and fruit. Then take a nice long nap. Is there anything you'd like from the Mütter Museum Store? I am fascinated by the Mutter Museum, but haven't looked at the store selections. Surprise me! I just noticed that Cocoa Pink has 5 ml Perfume Atomizers. Yay or nay? Scents you would like? Scents you would NOT like? I don't know them, but anything featuring my preferred notes would be welcome. what's your favorite kind of pizza? Pepe's in New Haven's white clam pizza. A close second would be sausage, spinach, and ricotta. Coal or wood oven preferred. Pepperoni always welcome. who are your style/fashion icons? post pics if you want! No time to post pictures now, but I like to sum up my preferred look as "Sally Bowles gets a day job." Not the Liza Sally Bowles, the one from the book. I love Dita von Teese's look, Bettie Page. Not that I can pull those off at all. And any kind of pre-Raphaelite girl with flowing hair and gowns. Are there any food items you're craving/aren't able to find around your area? I love Trader Joe's fleur de sel caramel, but they're seasonal. If you're interested in a handmade pouch/cover for an item you have (phones, tablets, books, keys, kettles...), what would your ideal pouch/cover have? Design, material, additional functionality/features like pockets or lights or secret hidey-holes? For Kindle 2: built-in light and a small attached notepad and pen to jot down books I think of that I want to order but can't right this moment. For any device: nothing heavy or bulky. Would you like a photo collage based around your interests/favorite colors/favorite themes? That would be cool, though hard for me to find display space. If you're crafty, are you interested in spoonfeather? And if so, what things there delight your eyes? Not familiar with this Colors! What are your favorite colors and what colors do you not like? Pictures and links, people! I love anything jewel-like and iridescent. Cobalt, peacock, ruby, emerald, deep violet, aqua. And PINK! What is your favorite word? I overuse the word FUCK to a great degree. What are the feelings on arm warmers? Color, style, texture, length? I don't find them comfortable. Do you like tarts? tealights? jar candles? votives? I like jar and votive. I don't have a tart warmer, so unless I got one those wouldn't be good. What's your favorite flavor? Sour, sweet, bitter, salty? Yes, all of those. I like them all in balance. Savory generally wins over sweet, and I like things very piquant. So, are there any online gaming witchees who covet purchasable in-game items or other gamer-y stuff? (yup, geek question) I don't play. Anyone doing anything cool for Mabon (or the start of fall, if you aren't pagan? Just the usual Rosh Hashanah/fall eating. What is your favorite coffee blend at Starbucks? If you don't have one, what is your favorite roast of coffee? Espresso Cthulhu: yay or nay? Meh. 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 I ordered Sprinklecake and Tree of Life. I really really really want to get Hermia.

In the imp -- bubblegum with something dry and flowery Wet -- still bubblegum with that floral note. Not a good combination. Dry -- gets a little softer, but still the overall impression is bubblegum. Not for me.

In the decant--sweet, spicy, cologne-like Wet--sharp cologne note, plus strong sweet apricot note, whiff of spicy ginger Dry--warms up and gains complexity. The tolu balsam and saffron add warmth, while the tea and teeny drop of vetiver (do not be afraid, I am as vetiver-phobic as they come) add depth. The fruit and apple blossom sweetness are balanced by the ginger. I just wish it had greater staying power. This is quite unisex, though leans feminine to my nose. As a lawyer, this is one I'd be happy to wear with a business suit or Fuck the Draft jacket.

In the imp and wet -- orange blossom, nothing but orange blossom. Dry -- remained pure orange blossom, and never a hint of the lemon verbena. At the tail end of what was a fairly fast fade, got a touch of heliotrope/honeysuckle sweet flowers. Still no lemon verbena.

In the imp -- icy clean fir and birch with white spring flowers, it's a lovely image. Wet -- the fir dominates, which is no big surprise as I amp woods to death, especially piney woods. Uh oh, and there's a touch of the slight urine smell I get with strong pine scents. Dry -- remains mostly fir with a touch of sweet flowers, but that wet phase impression unfortunately stays.

This is remarkably non-morphy on me. From the imp to wet on skin to dry it's just pure milk chocolate all the way. If it has any down moments, it's like the smell of cocoa butter, so still very close to pure chocolate. I am not usually one for sweet foodie scents, but I found this enveloping and comforting. It's something lovely to wear at bedtime or when cuddling my children. And the layering possibilities are endless! I made a pain au chocolat scent by combining with Bread and Butterfly. It has a surprising amount of throw and lasts a long time. Yummy.

In the imp -- fern, lavender, anise. Color impression is green with a touch of purple. Wet -- It's very green plus lilac sweetness. The lavender and anise add something aromatic and bitter. Dry -- This reminds me of some kind of fancy lotion from the 70s. Maybe I smelled it at someone's house. It's the fern, I think, giving me this impression. Not bad, it's sort of creamy, green, and herbal but I think I would like it better as a lotion or soap. The more the rose comes out the more it turns to soap/lotion on my skin.

This starts out sweet with a strong dose of the bitter powderiness I associate with carnation and white flowers. Eventually that fades, leaving a very pleasant floral sweetness combined with skin musk, but I'm not getting tuberose at any phase. I've tried many Lab blends containing tuberose, and I never can pick up that heady blossom that is usually very distinctive to me. I think for strong tuberose I need to stick with more commercial blends like Fracas.

In the imp -- vanilla and something aquatic or green, that indefinable "mineral" note that so many have mentioned. Wet -- vanilla, musk, sharpness. Dry -- something lotiony is pulling the vanilla in a direction that doesn't appeal to me. This sometimes happens to me with musks. I love the vanilla softness this dries to, but there are enough elements pulling against it that I don't really care for that I'll add to the swap pile.

This is a new favorite for me. I very much love vanilla, and find it's often either underappreciated as a subtle and complex note (that "plain vanilla" connotation), or splashed around in a cheap and cloying way. This vanilla is dry and complex and sophisticated. In the imp -- vanilla and a light somewhat sharp and herbal note. Wet -- dry vanilla and that boozy or green sharpness, not at all foodie. Drydown -- the dry vanilla stays dominant, but an almost woody note emerges (orris root?). The vanilla orchid is there but it's not a heady floral. Dry -- as this wears, the sharpness and woodiness mellow and combine beautifully with the vanilla, giving a softness and warmth that never strays into overly sweet foodiness. What I particularly love about this scent is that it tells a story as it wears. The initial phases are a little showier and throw-ier, as you imagine a courtesan might lay it on a bit thicker to get your attention. As you get closer to her, though, the scent calms down and becomes warm and intimate and comforting, but without ever fully enveloping you. It's sophisticated and complicated. This is one worth collecting for me. I'm just sorry I missed it by a hair when it was introduced right before I got interested in BPAL.

The Dormouse smells very grassy to me, but it's tea and charming fuzzy creatures!

In the imp -- more floral and light than I'd imagined Wet -- suddenly it's a little urine-like, or like when you leave cut flowers in water too long, uh oh. Doesn't bode well. Drydown -- luckily the pee phase passes quickly. Now it's a very pretty sweet pear-floral with some underlying deeper notes, but nothing very dark (violet leaf, etc.). Can't really make out the patchouli, which is nice since I'm patchouli-sensitive. Dry -- Now it gets a little spicier and a touch powdery, but it's very nicely balanced and well blended. I like this as a cooler summer day/evening/rainy day fragrance. Like many of the reviews say, it's pretty close to the skin and fades rather quickly.

This is my darkest oil yet in terms of color. It's a beautiful rich deep brown. On my skin it looks like iodine until it's absorbed. Imp--sweet and fruity Wet--love the sweet berries and amber. Not sure what kewda attar smells like. Awaiting the musk. Drydown--the musk comes on more strongly now, but it's much more pleasant to me than how I tend to experience red musk, which does something both cloying and rotten on me. The berries are really keeping it in check. Maybe I can wear dark musk. Dry--Hm, or maybe not. The berries sort of burn their way off, and now I'm left with mostly musk, the kind of musk that bugs me. There is something sort of grapey that wafts over once in a while, but mostly it's just the musk I can't wear. I might see what aging does to my decant.

Lab frimp. Thanks, Lab! In the imp -- bergamot and aquatic wetness, not too much eucalyptus, which is a scent I associate with the shampoo they usually have at the nicer gyms and spas. Wet -- a fresh, not lotiony, aquatic. Now it does remind me of a spa, but not as much eucalyptus. Dry -- stays pleasant and fresh. However, I think I'd enjoy this more as a room scent, detergent, or soap than perfume.

The listed notes appealed to me so much that I included this in my very first imp order from the Lab, and then was disappointed when it was accidentally omitted. The Lab's wonderful customer service made sure to get it to me with my next order. My expectation was something that would smell like when you walk into the shoe department at Bergdorf Goodman -- flowers, perfume, expensive shoe leather, cool air, polished wood. It wasn't exactly that the first time I tried it, and I was a bit let down, but that was in the spring and now that I'm thinking about fall fragrances I decided to try again. In the imp -- nicely blended: a little orchid, a little something nutty, a citrus tang. Wet -- lemony with a soft woody base and a burst of orchid. It's a true lemon, not a lemon furniture polish I sometimes get when combined with wood. Dry -- the leather comes out, and it's a new shiny leather, but it smells more expensive to me than the hard black leather note I don't like in Whip. The citrus remains prominent, though I can't pick out the grapefruit vs. the lemon peel. No mint. The orchid is there, but recedes at bit. The woods are there but not dominating (hallelujah because I often amp them) and I think the tea and amber are holding it all together nicely. Fades after a couple of hours, but I don't mind reapplying. This has turned out to be a keeper and something I can see wearing often, including to work.

Bottle: orange, tonka, bergamot, something a little figgy, something a little flowery Wet: bergamot sharpness and tonka Drydown: like Beatrice33, I got a strong whiff of Chanel No. 5, plus tonka. Then it goes a little bitter. Dry: softens up, and I really like the Chanel-like throw. But I get almost nothing of the fruits and flowers, and the sharpness never quite settles all the way down. It's a very sophisticated and complex fragrance, but I think my particular body chemistry isn't allowing me to enjoy all of its elements fully. I will keep trying it on and use my decant, but I'm not sure a bottle is in the cards.

I get a strong feeling of rice pudding from Brood XIX.

This was a Lab frimp. I am apprehensive because (1) cherry notes often smell like cough syrup to me and (2) I amp the hell out of wood to the exclusion of all else. Imp -- yep, cherry cough syrup with touch of wood. Wet -- still smells like cherry medicine, with slightly more polished wood. Dry -- it's incredibly reminiscent of a Manhattan cocktail (one of my favorites) with the deep wood smelling like the bourbon plus cherry and currant notes (I can't make out the currant on its own) as the sweet vermouth and maraschino cherry. Less happy whiffs smell like a cherry flavored cigar. Much as I love Manhattans, I really don't want to smell like I spilled one all over myself. Fortunately, this faded fairly quickly. I sent the imp to a cocktail-loving friend.

This was a Lab frimp. Very nice, because I hadn't noticed this one in all my combing through the GC offerings. Imp--strongly neroli with a little fruit Wet--dominated by the neroli, with the blood orange pulling out just a touch of the orange-ness of the blossoms. It reminds me a lot of the French macaroons I made with orange-flower water. Dry--once it's dry the raspberry comes out a bit more, and the neroli tones down, making it lightly flowery and fruity. It's very lovely, but very light and disappears quickly. This is one that would need some judicious slathering, but I don't think it's quite appealing enough to me to want to do that. I think it would be very nice on a younger person, but for me I'd want it to have touch of something woodier, warmer, or darker just to give it some balance.

In a triumph of hope over experience, i ordered the 2011 version, even though the 2009 smelled like raspberry vinaigrette on me. Bottle-- very dark color. Took a sniff, same vinegary note. Wet -- that's better. It's a blend of berries (can't distinguish one from another) and the sweet cherry note. Rich and fruity-sweet. Dry-- Damn, the musk comes out again and it's the same too-sharp vinegary note. I liked it in the wet phase, but while the journey is a little different, it ends up in the same place. Not a good one for me.

So patchouli and I don't generally get along, especially the red. It turns into cinnamon-scented play doh on me and will not leave. But I got an imp of Depraved and fell for the fresh-turned earth note. Are there other patchouli blends with that particular note? I enjoyed the apricot and love both fruit and flowers, but it was super sweet on me. Would love to try that earthy patchouli in other combinations.

This was a half-decant gifted by a lovely forumite. Imp--sugared fruit, a honeydew note. Wet--I get that watermelon candy others mentioned. It's sweet and fruity and sparkling pink but there is a touch of depth and warmth from the amber musk, cacao and vanilla. Dry--the mellow plum-apricot-vanilla notes hold firm, with all this lovely sugar sparkle. This is my girlhood ballerina princess dreams in a bottle. It's also the smell I'd love my kids to think of as mommy when they cuddle up on my lap.

This was a frimp from the Lab, and I was nervous about trying it because patchouli is generally impossible for me to wear. In the imp -- I gingerly took a sniff and was delighted to smell enough juicy sweet apricot and little enough icky patchouli to want to skin test. Wet -- more sweet luscious apricot nectar with just a dusting of earthy patchouli. Drydown -- the patchouli is coming forward but so far just makes the apricot smell natural and earthy. The patchouli smells like freshly-turned earth. Dry -- I do get the piney pencil shaving note that others have mentioned (no surprise, since I seem to amp this note wherever it presents) but still pleasantly earthy and fruity. It smells like I've been rolling around in the dirt (and maybe some wood chips) while getting drenched in apricot juice, a very sexy smell. If it's "depraved," it's depraved in the sense that sex is only dirty if you're doing it right; it doesn't smell corrupted to me in any way. I don't see wearing this every day or slathering it on -- this is something to dot on intimate pulse points when I'm feeling sexy in a roll-in-the-dirt sort of way. Can't see needing more than the imp. And do need to find more with this particular patchouli note.