Nia

When you thought that every possible situation that requires perfume is already included here, there's one more. I'm a high school teacher. One of my students, a boy age 16, extremely shy, soccer fanatic, lives in a foster home that is being dismantled. My husband and I are in the proccess of applying to foster him, and we are getting to know each other outside school. Tomorrow will be the second time we meet socially. He's coming for dinner. I plan to scent the house with Bastet's Laughter (smells a bit fruity-spicy). Now, any recommendations for my perfume? What about blends to go to see the Foster Children Office and convince them that I can be trusted with a boy who's not even 20 years younger than me? Thanks!

Thanks, everyone! Out of the ideas mentioned, I have: High John, that I will keep for the interviews, and other magical blends that can be appropriate like Temple: mother, Charisma, or Catalyst; and then for the motherly/protective aspect of things I have thought about: Chanukkiyah - it's a cross-cultural thing: here, we associate foodie scents with teenagers. I don't want to smell of vanilla, but this one has a nice "Mediterranean sweets deep-fried in olive oil" that just might work. Jasmine Cottage - smells of a clean house with a garden and it's my wedding scent. Paris - sweet lavender. Emathides - musky lavender. TKO - vanilla/lavender. The Gladdener of all hearts - out of the Lilith scents, my favourite. And one of my favourite bedtime scents so it will help me be relaxed. Harvest Moon. I don't know why but I like the idea. Antique Lace, Bastet, or Hope would work if I had them. Also, any blend with baby powder.

I forgot to come back after my wedding to say that Jasmine Cottage fitted the day perfectly. It was the right perfume for me, maybe not for others, but after it happened I couldn't imagine getting married in any other.

What's on your list of formerly fun activities to reclaim, witches?? Photography, writing and reading poetry, and blogging. As a Witchee, are you interested in clues to your Witch's identity? Sure. Is anyone interested in participating in the sketchbook project 2012? Not me. Would you still want the project if it was a craft fail???? Yep. Do you need any winter wear, witchee? I'm not sure. I need trousers, and fashion advice. If you or someone who's good with these things could hold my hand through the process of decluttering the closet, I'd jump up and down in happiness. I've read something about a Event Exclusive called Pumpkin Hard Candy (if someone knows the details, shout it out because I am still searching). Are you interested in this scent? How desperate are you for it? Pumpkin is among the notes of doom and pumpkin is a vegetable. Pumpkin candy is like asparagus candy. Going back to the question about winter wear, are there any colors you would prefer not to have? Yellow and brown. Do you like scary books? What's the best/scariest thing you've ever read? IO don't like scary books very much. So I was at Uwajimaya the other day and saw Earl Grey Tea Chocolate and Cinnamon Chocolate. If you were my Witchee, would you be interested in trying something like that? Tea and cocoa sounds nice; earl greay and chocolate doesn't sound so nice. But the general idea of trying chocolate in unusual combinations is good. Are you interested in anything in the latest round of Lab auctions on eBay? I avoid Ebay! What favorite song(s) would you think would translate into a cool or unique scent? I can only think of Suzanne Vega's Luka, but that would be kind of tasteless. OK- Los Planetas' La Playa. The sea and chlorine on top of her suntan lotion and a whiff of the drugs and alcohol he's been taking. Interested in anything from the Beaver Moon Lunacy update? lavender cheesecake sounds like my type of BPAL. I sent you with $20 into a drugstore/Walmart (nothing too fancy/imported/expensive, just your average selection), and you are restricted only to the candy aisle. What would you blow it on? If there's a fair trade brand of chocolate I'm familiar with, that one. If not, own-brand Mercadona FTW. What is your favorite kind of cookie? I prefer European-style biscuits. How many boxes are you hoping for? More or less the usual... in other occasions the rule seemed to be one from an online shop, one from plotting and one reveal. It's not really important. How do you feel about loose leaf tea in baggies? I mean, I have a TON of loose leaf, would it be okay if I send you samples in some zip lock baggies? Or is that something that would squick you out? No, that's perfectly fine. How would you feel about getting a custom poster with your favorite quote on it and some cool graphics? I'm an architecture student and can print posters (provided I make them) at pretty much any size using Adobe Illustrator at a low price. Also if you would be interested in this, what quotes would you like? I'm all covered in wall decoration, thanks. The best thing I ever ate...It's impossible to choose but I can't get the po'boy I ate three weeks ago out of my mind. Mac using witchees, what computers do you use? What peripherals/accessories do you have and what would you LIKE to have? What do you use your computer for? I use as much free software as I can (Open Office, Firefox) on a Dell computer that my husband rescued after someone dropped a glass of sugary milky coffee on it (coffee, milk and sugar require different cleaning methods). When it dies it will be replaced by a macbook. At work, I use the local flavour of Linux. I'm looking forward to having a lighter laptop so that I can bring it to work. I don't do anything special with it; nearly all I do, for work or pleasure, can be done online with the exception of Paint.net. Are there any DIY / Crafty / Free / Budget items you'd love to get but haven't noted yet? (Or, maybe you'd just like to emphasize something you may have only noted in passing?) Fashion and decluttering advice and support. Audiobooks: I'm interested, but I have never listened to one. All I ask for is that they are complete versions, I don't like the idea of abridged books. Do you like liquorice? If so, hard or soft? Sweet or salt? Normally salted or so salt it pulls your face into a fishy shape? And which shapes do you like? I don't like it very much and I hate the salty varieties. Are you musically inclined? Do you play an instrument or sing? If so, what? No, no, and no. I dance, though. Does anyone else like collector Barbies? Not me. Tell me about something you like, and why you like it. The cup I'm currently drinking tea from. It's not too big, fitting a little bit more than a glass and a little bit less than 250 ml. It's decorated with a collage design of squares, polkadots and tulips in blue and orange. The inside is white - I hate not being able to see the colour of tea. And I got it when I worked in the Aberdeen Annual Fund when I was the best caller of the night. We got little prizes like that all the time, and I wasn't a very productive caller. So it's a pretty and useful reminder of a job I was very proud of. For those of you that like candles, do you like stuff from Yankee Candle? And if you had to choose, tarts or candles? I don't like things with very strong scents and in any case, I prefer candles to tarts. Would you be interested in getting a custom necklace fromhere? They're pretty. Is there a movie you want so badly that you don’t own now? Any Ghibli ones apart from Spirited Away, Totoro and Ponyo. Is there a rare book you’ve always wanted? There are some books that you can't get me because they are not published in any language I understand. Att vara Elvis, 1977. Bara Elvis, 1979. Godispåsen, 1985. Skugg-gömman, 1988. Hjärtat som ingen ville ha, 1989. Tre trappor upp med hiss, 1991. Eget rum, 1992. Egna världar, 1994. Annas blomma, 1997. They are all by the Swedish writer Maria Gripe. They have never been published in Spanish and I'm not sure they are available in English. I could struggle to read them in French, German, or Portuguese. Is there anything you want to buy yourself but have been too embarrassed (R rated or pg)? No. Have you seen the Lush holiday update? Do you like the look of anything from there? Considering that I rarely take baths and that I don't like their soaps, Lush can do very little to take me back to them. if you were my witchee, would you want some of my hot nuts my candied nuts my nuts covered in butter and brown sugar candied walnuts? Oh wow, yes, please. Reveal? Please. Would you be interested in the #occupywallstreet scent? Tpbacco often works bad on me, but I would love a sample. Do Paintbox Soapworks' Goat's Milk Hand and Body Creams sound like something you'd like to try? Just by the name, probably yes. You get a package in the mail containing 3 things you have really wanted more than anything else you've mentioned so far in this thread. (they are all reasonably priced of course! ~$20 or less apiece). What are they? Anything cute that benefits a charity or fair trade. Starter knitting materials - instructions to do something very easy, needles.... how do you feel about hemp? jewelry, soap, etc? no, thanks. Is there a magazine that you DON'T read because you can't find it near you, but wish you could? I find magazines vaguely unsatisfying. Like junk food. Describe your sense of humour. For all my life, I've been told I don't have one. Sense of humour is a zero-sum game in my family and apparently the men got all of it. I find I'm self-deprecating with the family, geeky with my husband, shocking with my students, and bubbly when I relax. I think of myself as a sombre person. Wow, that was a long answer. Do you like reusable grocery bags? If so, do you like the kind that fold up (ie Chico Bags?) I always do my shopping with reusable bags, but it's handy to have a new one. What is something people are always surprised to learn about you? My age (everyone assumes I'm younger). My geekiness. How alike my mother I am, if they know her. 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? I really don't like porcelain dolls and similar realistic-looking dolls unless they are babies. Uncannny valley effect, I guess. Are there any local museums/attractions you keep never getting around to going to? Not really. Is there any kind of international candy you love or would like to try? There's nothing that I like, that is portable and non-perishable enough and that I remember right now. What is something totally random (yes, that thing that just popped into your head) that hasn't been covered by any previous questions? The question "what is your favorite breakfast?". If you were to go here and create your very own chocolate bar, what might it have in it? Orange blossom water. Fair trade chocolate. Organic cane sugar. Would you be interested in regional jams, jellies, or other preserves? mm, yes! 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? Nothing is essential. Princess Bride? Yay or nay? Yay. What's your favorite classic fairytale? The original Little Mermaid. how do you feel about ethical animal fiber, i.e. wool and the like? an ideal to strive for. But then, I love silk, which makes me a hypocrite. What about little wee creatures for your desk or mantel? NOthing whose only purpose is decorating, please. Look down. What are you wearing, right now? A purple, sleeveless, hippie-looking cotton dress, of that sort of fabric that is supposed to stay wrinkled and unironed, with a sun on the front. And pink tennis shoes without laces. 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? Exactly what I'm doing now. Is there anything you'd like from the Mütter Museum Store? probably not. what's your favorite kind of pizza? I'm not the greatest fan. who are your style/fashion icons? post pics if you want! The uniform project. Yes, I know. I'm boring. 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? I never use them. I'd love a geeky-looking pillbox. Would you like a photo collage based around your interests/favorite colors/favorite themes? As I've said somewhere else, I have no more space for hanging things on the wall. Colors! What are your favorite colors and what colors do you not like? Pictures and links, people! I own exactly two garments (threadless T-shirts) and no home decorations in yellow. What is your favorite word? I like words and expressions that don't translate well, like merienda or comfort food. What are the feelings on arm warmers? Color, style, texture, length? no, thanks. Do you like tarts? no tealights? yes jar candles? yes votives? yes. What's your favorite flavor? Sour, sweet, bitter, salty? Sweet. Umami. And I really like yeasty things like blue cheese. Chutlhu: yay or nay? Nay. Is there something that you wish you could do, but you keep putting it off? See my 101 project. Put your current mp3player (I am the anti-apple, so no ipod ), winamp playlist, what have you, on shuffle, list the first 10 songs: Do you have any interest in rocks? Not like, polished colorful stones.. but like... rocks. With geologic significance! No, thanks. Wow, BPAL people do have a very wide range of interests. 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? Non-itchy, please. Anything of this sort that I get will end up eventually on my hair, so if it's warm I'd like to wear it (occasionally) wrapped all around my head like some hijab styles (so it would have to be quite wide), and if it's very fine I'd wear it like a hair band. The problem is when they are somewhere in the middle. So in one word: if you're knitting, please make it wide. Do you like/own/wear/want fairy wings or something of the like? No thanks. What's your favorite horror movie? I don't like horror. 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. Let's see. A basic, not harsh, soap-looking face cleanser. English Breakfast tea or a similar style. Good nail files. make up brushes and eyeshadow applicators. Something to feed extremely dry hair. Anything lavender-scented. Yep, that's my day. Jane Austen .. Yay or Nay? yay. Team Austen. Absolutely. 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 like caligraphy. Something inspirational-but-a-bit-humorous about teaching would be nice. Do you like period or period-styled paraphernalia? Stuff like postcards, notecards, jewelry, office supplies, what-have-you? Probably. 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? Primarily, the plots. if you could have a salon scent made, based on any artwork(s) what would it be? Something golden and happy by Klimt. 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.? At the moment I'm feeling too clumsy for that. What's 'your' song/your theme song? In My Life. What would be your superpower? To be in several places at once. Witchee, would you like a gently used BPAL tshirt? I don't remember a design I liked enough. 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! Hmm... no candy, no sweeteners, just fruit-nut-cereal. Do you like charm bracelets? No. 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. You make them sound lovely, so why not? Do you like Legos? Especially mini-fig key chains, Lego block keychains, small Lego sets, etc? I prefer Playmobil. 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. The Neil Gaimans on my list until I run out of the money. Are there any characters that you love or identify with? I used to say Jane Eyre. Now I think more Mary Poppins. 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? The truth is that most of the beauty I create lately is food.... I don't know, I try a new recipe, and keep experimenting with personal touches until it's more like the idea that I have in my head. Are there any Arcana Weenies that you MUST HAVE? Please don't make me go to their website. I'm enabled enough as it is. Surprise me if you want to 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 like to use nailpolish but I'm very lazy about it. And I always end up having a dozen of aqua ones. 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 prefer lisptick and I don't like it to taste of anything. -How do you feel about getting art supplies in general? (copic markers, watercolor, brushes, paint, sketchbooks etc.) No thanks. -How do you feel about Threadless tshirts? I like the designs and I have a few. However, their girly/babydoll tees is currently done in a cut that looks horrible on me. They are too long. 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? Nailpolish and christmas cards. 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, but they'd be too expensive to post, wouldn't they? Do you prefer color or white photographs? Nature or abstract? Color. People. would you be interested in something like this? https://lostcrates.com/how-it-works I'm not sure. On the one hand, the surprise is fun. On the other, I'm starting to get really tired of the commodification of anything and everything. Amigurumi, yes or no? Not sure. If you could have an image painted for you - sky is the limit - what would it be? A Chinese or japanese landscape. Name your 3 favorite scents for candles Natural beeswax (you know, the honey.coloured and honey-scented ones). Name your 3 favorite types/flavors of tea. Darjeeling. Keemun. Flower-scented black tea. In all cases, loose leaf. 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 prefer them babydoll-style. I have a size M towards L. Anything designed or handmade by my witch has a value of its own. How do you feel about pumpkin scented things? Not perfume related, but soap, candles, etc.... Pumpkin is a vegetable. The idea of pumpkin scented stuff is a bit like the idea of celery-scented stuff. I mean, I love to eat it but I'd rather keep it in the kitchen. Has anyone else heard of or does anyone else love Glamourkin? Looks cute but I'm not a big fan of pendants. I have too many. Computers and stuff: Not a big fan of any brand. My husband (woo, I can call him husband now) likes Linux and uses Mac when he's not working. SOCK PREFERENCES? As close to 100% cotton as possible. Not very long. Black socks with a discreet touch of colour/silliness are an ideal. Is there anyone here who likes toe socks? You know, those socks with a place for each toe? Are you looking for a certain kind of DVDs to spruce up your collection right now? Hm. Classic BBC series, like for example adaptations of 19th century classics. Anything on my Amazon whislists. Does anyone like postcards? Is anyone willing to be a Nacho witch for postcards? I would prefer Christmas or birthday cards to anything else. Anyone going to see any good concerts this fall? I'd like to, but it's not planned. Do you like Star Trek? Original TV series, films, spinoff series, etc? Favorite characters? I'm not a fan, but my husband is, and he has no merchandising at all; he has watched everything online. He likes the old films and the original series and he identifies a lot with the engineers. 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 love to cook. There is no "too busy or tired to order food"; if I want someone else to cook for me, I'd rather go out, and if I'm really too tired or busy to cook I'll have soup or a salad. There are cookbooks on my amazon wishlist and that can give you an idea of what I like. I'm Robin Robertson's biggest nonvegan fan. How do you feel about maple syrup? I prefer honey but it's nce to have once in a while. How do people feel about little pocket shrines, maybe something inspirational/motivational to keep in their purses/backpacks/whatever? That would fit perfectly into my little altar. Also, I have a collection of all-in-one-piece tiny Nativities. Do you like Star Wars? Original Trilogy? Prequels? Spin-offs? Favorite characters? I like the original trilogy but I'm not a huge fan. Do you like beef jerkey, I know some may be vegetarian, but where I live beef is a staple and beef jerky abounds. If so do you it really thin, hard and crunchy or thicker and softer. I would be curious to try it, why not. 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. No, thanks. Not my thing. Doctor Who? Yay or nay? I saw a bit of the old one some time in the late 80s and I'm curious. Anyone love Buffy/Angel? Last year I downloaded all Buffy and watched it in one go. I loved it. I dislike the character of Angel but I want to see that series, and buy the Buffy DVDs because it's not fair to like a series so much and not pay for it. How would you feel about gummies? Like, gummy bears? Gummy werewolves? Gummy vampires? no, thanks. How would you feel about a totally original Gela-skin for your laptop/iPod/phone? Stickers? Decals? no thanks. 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? The only Halloween related things I like are Nightmare Before Christmas and cooking with butternut squash because I prefer it to real pumpkin. I like the old classic dark fairytales. How do you all feel about Whoopie Pies? never had one. Would you be interested in a handmade bookmark? sure. Do you like real sugar skulls? Things with sugar skull designs? I don't like skull-shaped things, but I'm curious about real sugar skulls. Who here adores meringue? Not me. How about little bottles of booze? Ya wanna? What kind? No, thanks. 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.) Fudge is toffee's poor cousin. Also, what about mochi? Love it, hate it, baffled by it? I looooove it. Anything from the BPTP update ya'll are liking? All the glosses sound amazing but I think they are way too expensive. Does anyone like kimchi? Not interested. Would you be interested in a sample box(from somewhere like Birchbox or loosebutton)? Sure, why not? You have to place a Lab and Trading Post order. Right fuckin' now. No spending limits. What do you buy? All the hair glosses. All the Neil Gaiman stuff on my wishlist. And you didn't mention it – but a cartload of TALs. Paintbox Soapworks - anything you're interested in, in general or from the latest update? I'll trust your taste. Do you guys have any sports that you follow obsessively? How about favorite teams and/or athletes. I like sports that are somewhat related to dance: rhythmic gymnastics, artistic gymnastics, and synchronised swimming. But the judges are so often unfair, and the athletes are way too young and skinny in the case of gymnastics, that I've lost interest over the years. So the short answer is “not really”. How do you feel about notebooks/journals/stationery? Anything you need or particularly like? I'm a teacher. What do you think? Does confetti/glitter make you angry or fill you with glee? Noooooooo!!!!!!!!!! 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? No, thanks. how interested would you be on somewhat personalized bottle cap labels? This reminds me: those round little labels are hard to find so it would be nice to have some sheets. How would you feel about kitchen towels and other similar household objects, if they are pretty or a souvenir? Yes please. How did you dress up for your last party or compulsory-formal-dress occasion? I went to a friend's wedding in a Hoss Intropia dress that looked very 50s. Spaguetti straps, heart neckline, beige and printed with watercolor-like birdcages in many colours. Red wedges. A blue hippie crunched scarf as a shawl. Three fabric poppies on my hair instead of a fascinator. Do you enjoy puzzles/riddles? (Cryptograms, Sudoku, Crossword, Jigsaw, etc) No. Witchee, would you be interested in having a special tea cup/coffee mug/glass to drink out of? That would be lovely. Would you like to receive e-books? And if so, in what format? No, thanks. On the other hand, audiobooks would be very much appreciated as long as they're not abridged. 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'm picky about handbags. They must close with a zip, the opening cannot be narrower than the bottom, and the strap has to be long enough to wear across the chest. I like them simple and square. Are there are patterns, motifs, etc that you especially like? Nothing particular. I have to say, I'm really not interedted in anything Halloween-related unless it's Nightmare before Christmas. 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? It's easier to say the things I don't like: pu-erh. Rooibos. Those “tea flowers” that come as a ball and turn into a flower when covered in water. Compressed tea is a form of pu-erh. My stomach doesn't like ginger in tea, in most brands. Anything else in the entire world will make me very very very happy, but I prefer it loose. And another question; anyone like anything in particular from Think Geek? The t-shirts with women in science. Anything XKCD. What #1 actor, director, author and/or musician are you obsessed with? I'd try anything with Ayswarya Rai, Sharukh Khan or Gene Kelly on it. And Michael Winterbottom. Are you interested in anything from the Villainness Bad Apples update? Just Right, and maybe twistappel. 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? BPTP in general. 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 have too many unframed paintings. 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? Anything would be nice. I like to wear make up but rarely make the time for it. I like stuff that smells nice whatever its function. My hair is almost black and I'm paler than the average Spaniard. I have been postponing buying nice eyeshadow that is discreet enough for work, but not brown. 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) mp3 or CD are fine. I keep postponing getting anything by Adele. Are you going away for any part of this round? Yes, mid-sept to early october. Would you like to receive a mix-CD from your Witch? Sure, it would be lovely. If your witch were going somewhere on a vacation during the round, would you want a little souvenir? That would be nice. Do you work/study at a desk and enjoy interesting or cute office supplies? Yes and yes. Witchee, are you a fan of musicals? If so, which ones? YES. I love musicals and I tend to care more about choreography than about the songs. I love Gene Kelly, Gershwin, and Bollywood most of all, but if it's a musical I will probably like it. I was disappointed by Sweeney Todd, though. 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.) Anything but shoes, socks and of course underwear is fine. Books and home decoration are sometimes better than first-hand. Do you have an Etsy shop? Do you know of any Etsy shops that are Switch Witch friendly? I've tried to make one but I don't have the time or the motivation right now. Would a gift or a postcard from Disneyland make you squee with delight or puke into your mail box? I'm not a big Disney fan and I hate anything Princessy. what are your favorite types of Halloween candy? I'm not familiar with seasonal candy. Do you prefer soap or shower gel? Please give examples of your favorite scents or brands. Both, but I use bar soap more. I like them to have a strong scent. I like Villainess as long as it's not leathery or smoky. BPAL's galahad makes some good ones. I like them fresh, mostly. My shower normally has a sweet-smelling product (now: Posh Brats chocolate showergel), a fresh-smelling product (now: Arcana vampiresomething (vampire garden?????) that smells of tomato leaf and patchouli), and something lavendery (now: nothing? Really? Excuse me while I go to the shops for a minute). How do you like your chocolate? For example with nuts, mint, peanut butter, caramel? I think that in previous questionnaires I've said I'm a chocolate snob. I like it to be good quality, and I prefer dark to milk because that way I eat less and taste more. I like Green and Black's a lot, and I hate very greasy chocolate, like Belgian tends to be. I think that chocolate with non-cocoa vegetable fat should be banned and its inventors made to relive the eighth grade for all eternity. Beads! Do you use them? Would you want some? What sorts of beads do you like? I used to sell my own handmade jewelry at University. Now I only use beads for gifts or for myself. If you sent me jewelry supplies, I would probably like them and use them. I like stones, pretty glass like Murano glass, things like that. No plastic or painted glass. Anyone here like caramels? Sea salted caramels?!?! I don't know if there's a difference between toffee and caramel. I love both. I've never tried sea-salted caramel. Would you like a hand dyed or hand painted scarf or wrap or other item? If so, what colors/designs/fabrics do you like? It sounds very nice. Just because I'm likely to combine it with a black dress, any shade of red, or green/blue, would be great. Definitely not brown. I'm not the biggest fan of “autumn colours”. This was a question before, but does anyone here like stones? Just pretty polished stones for use in whatever purposes? Not now, thanks.

Oh, yes, please post it! I forgot to say, I have asked the groom to wear Aelopile because it's so sexy on him. And it's fitting. If our wedding has a theme, it's "boys do Science, girls do Humanities" (yes, it sounds very cheesy, but in our case it's true and the theme is very subtle) So his perfume is named after an engine and mine is named after a novel.

I think that for my wedding I'm going to have two different scents. I'm going to perfume myself with Jasmine Cottage because the groom requested "light florals and/or jasmine". Jasmine cottage doesn't smell much like jasmine on me but the only other jasmine blends that I have are Theodosius, that gives the wrong vibe, and a Posset LE, Coo, that is too sweet. I like of Jasmine Cottage that it's light, fresh, the description is a bit like our current home (the rented house aspect, not the cute cottage aspect) and besides, very important!! The photos!! Our photographer often starts albums with a collage of "bits and pieces that form the bride/groom dress" I need a photogenic blend for a picture of my perfume and out of my bottles, that meant this, or Sagittarius. Now, scent two: For some reason, since I discovered BPAL I wanted gardenia scent on my wedding and what I'm going to do is, my bouquet is made of ribbons and I'm going to perfume it in TAL White Light

I detect three layers. First, there's a foody note that feels a bit burnt or nutty; many BPAL scents that include foody ingredients smell exactly the same on me. It's a note like buttered toast and hazelnuts. This is, I guess, the "smoky vanilla". It's a pity because I'm not a great fan of this note and it's one of the very few that my ashmatic and allergic partner can smell well - and he hates it. Secondly, there's a complex mix of gentle sweet scents. I tested this without the description and I thought "kind of like honey but it's definitely not honey". This must be the sugar cane/rice wine/ vanilla/grapefruit/light musk. Nice, but spoiled in combination with the toasted note. Finally, what saves this scent for me is the herbal layer. I have no idea what's in it, but it is discreetly there, very sober and not sweet at all. On the drydown, the second layer is the most prominent and long-lasting one. My plan was to use this for ritual purposes, and that's what I'll do, as it is a very pleasant smell but too sweet and foody for every day. I understand the people who say this is the summer version of a Christmas foody but the top layer makes it too heavy as perfume.

Aargh! The computer ate my review! I'll try to re-build it. I haven't posted a review in ages, but I think this is worth it. I've made three swaps in the last month or so and I'm not entirely sure of who swapped me this. It must have been a frimp because there's no way I would have asked for it. Some of the BPAL notes that fail more spectacularly on my skin are red and black musk (amp up like crazy, go sour sometimes, and eat up any other smell), myrrh (old-ladyish and tends to spoilt anything else) and vetiver (bitter, too strong, sometimes gives me a headache). Czernobog only needs cedar and lilies to be The Bpal Blend From Hell. And instead of two thirds of my personal BPAL kryptonite, what do we get? First of all, a herbal note that feels more medicinal than bitter. Others have said pine; I get more eucaliptus. Very strong, in any case. After the initial shock there's animalistic sweetness underneath, and as the medicinal aspect calms down, here it is, our old friend black musk stealing the show. But somehow, the herbal note, which by now is recognisable as vetiver, keeps the musks under control. This is the way a werewolf is supposed to smell. I smell like a very sexy man. I feel a bad guy. And it's a very strange but pleasant feeling.

None of the notes smells soapy on me. Why, oh why then Nutcracker smells like some sort of bitter incensey soap? There is zero fruit on this one. It smells a bit green and like men's cologne when it dries down. It feels like a good incarnation of the tale's hero, but it's certainly not for me.

BPAL blends with fig normally go very weel with my skin; Carnal (fig & mandarin) is one of my all-time favourites. But this one was a big disappointment because, first of all, it's not very figgy. And secondly, the holly note(s) smell more medicinal and bitter than herbal. A bit like the blends that contain cedar or cypress. The dry down is a bit less bitter, but still, it's mild and herbal. off to the swap bag.

I came home with some Dungeon Crawl and some Bedbugs yesterday. If you were my witchee, would you want some of either/both? Not me. Would you like to receive international magazines, even if you don't speak the language it's written in, just to ogle the pictures or for the novelty of it? If yes, what kind of magazines, or what magazines in particular? foodie magazines in English, yes. Anything else, no thanks. would you have interest in any of the new Christmas stuff from Lush? Once a Year, and Glogg. If you were my witchee, would you mind a gift certificate where you'd have to do it old school style and mail it in with your order form? mail is not the problem. ordering things from outside the EU is. Anyone like little seasonal decorative wreaths? Like gravevine wreaths embellished with silk flora, etc.? that sounds very nice. Do any witchees need a Snuggie? not me. So, who here loves pomegranates? Are the good as a fruit, a flavoring or just a scent? I love them. Villainess has an update. Anyone wanting anything from it? the peachberry custard products are the sort of thing I like. how are all the witchees fixed for purses--lunchbags, etc? I think I have all I need just now, more or less. Now, I have a question for you. About notes. Which are your favourite ones? Do you have a kind of "note top ten?" Anything that works particularly well on you? Do you have a perfume category (foody, floral, aquatic, musky) that you favour? And are there any notes you have never tried, but think would work well on you? Favourite notes: 1 Lavender. Lavender cosmetics don't count. 2 Neroli, orange blossom, lemon blossom. 3 Peach and apricot. 4 Apple is tricky (all fruits are). It depends a lot on the rest of the notes in a blend. 5 Rose is tricky too. Rose-dominated perfumes are normally bad. 6 Amber. 7 Arabian / Egyptian musk. 8 Cinnamon. 9 Sandalwood. 10 Violet. I'm awful picking favourites, anyway. For BPAL, I'm mostly drawn to fruity blends. Lots of my favourites are a combination of one flower + one fruit + light musk (say, Aglaea). Would you like a sugar skull decorated by your witch? Or do you like sugar skull stuff in general? not really, no. Is there one scent that is your goto for comfort on a bad stressful day? Like the perfume equivalent of a security blankie? White Light or The gladdener of all hearts. Is there something just super random you like/enjoy/want/are ogling that has not been and will not be covered by any other questions, because it's just that WEIRD not that I know of. If you could make a scent that represents where you live (or have lived), what would be the ingredients? Hmm. My hometown: orange blossom, orange, jasmine, and a hint of incense. Where I'm living now: cakes (olive oil + cinnamon + almond), greenery, and clean cold air. Are you in need of Roller bottles or anything of the like? not anymore. Just curious, but if your witch was to make an amigurumi critter (or other plushie) just for you, what would it be? a penguin! Would you want a local/tourist item from your witch? Like a t-shirt, mug or shot glass? Only of it has some use, not just being decorative. Do you collect stones/rocks? I'm talking like "semi" precious stones, ie moonstone, bloodstone, quartz ect. Are there any that you're looking for at the moment? Are you in need of a stone but don't know which kind? not right now. Do you have a deviantart print wishlist or favourites list? No. Is there anything from Blooddrop that you want to try? GC? Ermmm... the corsets, particularly the now unavailable anne de melun. Do you like weird scary things as traditionally girly fashion items like heels and handbags? I wouldn't like someone else to choose my shoes. As for handbags, I like them biggish, squarish, and with a long strap. What song is on heavy rotation for you right now? chaiyya chaiyya. Are you coveting any of the NYCC atmospheric sprays? Nep. If you could get any one thing hand-painted from your witch, what would it be and what would be on it? whatever she likes! If you have played before, what are some of the most memorable things you've gotten? What really made you go WOW? If you haven't played, same thing, but not limited to SW. I'll mention one thing from each round: From Katrina, the variety of very different items. From Xylis, how she got other people to send me rares. I'm talking first edition Thirteen here!!! And Emathides!!! From Galahad, the beautiful covers on the homemade music compilations he sent me. Do you like garlic? Do you REALLY like garlic? Would you want to try some really unusual garlic stuff, like garlic cheese or garlic fudge or garlic chocolate, etc., etc., etc.? Garlic is yum, but garlic and sweets? Yuck. Can I talk to you about the living dead? How do you feel about Zombies? entirely uninterested. How many bottles of BPAL do you have? About 30. Wait. Did I just said that? wow. Is there any exercise program that you're interesting in learning? Meditation, Yoga, Pilates, Belly Dancing, Zumba ect? Or if you do any of these (or anything else sport related) are there any things you need/want? Candles, music, mats, water bottles ect? A water bottle would be amazing. Bellydance DVS on my wishlist, too, as I've just been orphaned of weekly dance classes. Anyone else into Emily Autumn? nep. do you like Girl Scout cookies? What kind? I've tried some plain ones. They're OK. What's your take on homemade apple butter? Want some? Sure. Soaps : do you like them? What brands? What scents? Anything you're dying to try? I love to try new brands, anything that's on etsy, etc. I like anything that smells floral or clean. Does any art we may send need to be child safe, either in the actually safe sense or the non X rated sense? No children; in the other sense, I hate porn. In the knitted/crocheted things area, would you want wrist warmers, 1/2 gloves, a neck warmer(the kind that pretty much just goes around your neck and maybe fastens instead of being long and loose like a scarf), slippers, or hats? All of that sounds nice. but re: hats, I have a big head and bigger hair... How do you feel about altered/recycled/upcycled items of clothing or accessories? Curious. Is there anything you want from the Violette Market update? I know that brand very little. What is your favourite habitat and climate to live in? How about to visit? (ie. forest, canyons, mountains, by the beach; temperate, tropical...) Mediterranean. Temperate. I don't mind cold and rain but I'm not a big fan. I prefer the country to the beach. What do you wish you could make/craft if you had the know-how and supplies? Specifically, which particular items? I wish I had the time and patience to learn to knit. One day I'll learn, I promise. I see simple cake and cookie decoration as a more realistic wish. Is there anything you would like from Conjure Oils general catalogue or the new updates that isn't already on your wishlist? This is the first time I hear of that brand. I'll trust you. Anyone need address/phone type books? Not me. Are there any particular movies, tv shows or cd’s that you’ve been meaning to buy for years but just never got round to getting? Buffy. Would you mind a gently used dvd/cd if your witch had it or could get it?? not a problem! Is there anything from the Possets' Hallowe'en update you're lusting after? Let's see.... 301, Esmerelda, ghost, ghost fart, hooker, marnie, Melanie, Phantome, scythe, the fruit of the tree, The girls love ginger (!!), wraith. Would you like a custom/altered toy either from a seller or from your witch (like My Little Pony, or a Barbie or any particular toy that can be changed?) Erm, no, thanks. Do you like the candy apple, candy corn or pumpkin spice kisses? If with kisses you mean the chocolate, no thanks. Anne Taintor, anyone? cool, but not really my style. Which web comics do you enjoy? xkcd, liniers, jessica hagy, count your sheep. If I were to knit a scarf, would you prefer a skinny one, or a wide one? A short one, that when wrapped once around your neck will just tuck under your jacket, or a long one, at least to your waist? I don't like skinny ones. If it's wide / long enough to wrap around my head (like a hijab), it will be used like that sometimes. Apart from that, anything's fine. Don't like scarves? Would a rectangular shawl or triangular shawl be more to your taste? Hmmm.... I don't know. How do you feel about recipes? Did I mention I'm cooking through a lovely book called Vegan Planet? What kind of a cook/baker are you? The sort that says "this recipe calls for green peppers, but I prefer red so I'll use red, and twice as much cinnamon and I'll skip the cream, this dish doesn't need it". I rarely cook meat or fish and I don't decorate my cakes. Are you happiest calling for delivery or microwaving a lean cuisine, Or will Food Network be asking you to host their new program? My idea of "too busy to cook" is salad and eggs. The most processed foods in the house are cornflakes. Does that answer your question? If I send you something home made would you like the reciepe for it? If you want to. If you are someone who doesn't want baked goods sent, would you like a collection of some of my favorite recipes? That would be nice. How about home made mixes or kits? Kind of like the cookie in a jar thing, where you would need to add the perishable ingredients? Probably too heavy to be worth posting. if you are a tea lover, what are your flavor preferences? Green? Black? Herbal (I know, technically those are NOT teas, but tisanes)? Flavored blacks/greens? I HATE red tea and lapsang souchong, and can't drink rooibos. Every else is great. How do you feel about silly, funny knick-knack, dollar store stuff, stickers, magnets etc? Would you like receiving that kind of stuff or rather not? I don't like things whose only purpose is decorating, nor kitsch. Everything else can be lovely. Is there a specific book you've been wanting to get but haven't found the time or the opportunity to? I can't think of any just now. Do you read mangas/watch animes? Which ones? Do you have a particular favourite? Would you like to receive mangas or anything related to them? I'm a big fan of Studio Ghibli and the only films I have on DVD ate My Neighbour Totoro and Ponyo. My boyfriend has the manga of Nausicaa from the Valley of the Wind. Anything else by Studio Ghibli would be nice. Are you open to receiving things that are not on your wishlist, maybe something your Witch thinks you might like? Of course. I make wishlists to make things easier and also to keep track myself of stuff I've tried, they are not "requests"! If you have something on a wishlist that we could craft INSTEAD of buying, though it might not end up identical to the wishlist thing, would it be okay to craft it instead? Obviously we don't want to copy anyone else's design, but if we can replicate the flavour or intent that you like without stepping on toes? Yes, that sounds great. Something you have crafted has added value. OK, I know that lots of folks love socks. Do you have a preference of length? Materials? Patterns? When it's very very cold I like to sleep with very thick, somewhat loose socks, short on the ankles. When I'm warm I kick them off in my sleep, so they have to be a bit loose. If you can knit, I'd be eternally grateful for extra-thick and extra-warm socks for The Boy. His feet are 28 cm/ 11 inches long and his ankles are a big thicker than average. His favourite colour is black. Chocolate or other types of candy? Do I have to choose? For tea drinkers, do you prefer loose leaf or tea bags? Loose, but bags are OK. If you would enjoy something of a knitted persuasion, do you have a preference on type of thing? Since making a scarf for someone who has 10 might be a smidge excessive? Also, how do people feel about shawls? See before about socks. I don't really need scarves or hats. Is there a TV, movie or literary character that you are a lot alike, or would like to be alike? I have a thing about Jane Eyre. Is there anything you need for your kitchen, ie measuring cups, spoons, grater, ect? Measuring cups, now that you mention them. Music, DO you prefer Live or Studio? Edited or explicit? For recordings, I norally prefer studio. If there's a choice, I prefer original to edited. If you are an animal lover, is there a specific type/breed that you love most? Not really. Also flowers and plants- If you like flowers/plants, do you have a favorite(s)? Orange blossom. Do you have a favorite quotation? Song lyric? Book passage? WhateverthehecktheycalltheanonymousregionalwisdomthingiePROVERB! that word. The first one that comes to mind is "To everything there is a season, and a time for everything". I'm not a regular Bible-quoter, but that's so wise. What is a bpal scent that you've been dying to try for awhile but just can't find? (A scent where even a tester would do) All my wishes in this respect have been fulfilled by previous witches. Is there anything you would like that can be delivered over the internet? Things like fanfic recs, cat macros, mp3s you are looking for, how-to or amusing videos, things like that. See the wish about world music in my "SW help" post. What would your last meal be if it could be anything in the world (sky is the limit, drinks too, the whole shebang) Peking Duck, gintonic made with Hendrick's gin, Green and Black's chocolate. NaNoWriMo? No. Do you like maple sugar candy? I like maple syrup, so I would probably like this. What is your position on the chocolate & bacon flavor combination? It doesn't sound like a goood idea. If you are a tea-drinker do you need a tea-cozie for your pot? Hey, a kitchen gadget I don't own!! Go to your spice cabinet, what are the three most used spices? Ras el Hanout. Oregano. Smoked Paprika. Microsoft or Apple? Microsoft but I plan to switch. I use a version of Linux at work. Where was your last vacation? What did you like most? The beach. I liked relaxing with my boyfriend as he likes the beach a lot more than I do. Would you appreciate receiving handwritten letters and/or postcards (anonymous or not)? How about sending them? Who doesn't love receiving mail? Do you hate any food things with a passion?? Not that I remember. Would you be opposed to receiving a digital version (via email) of a magazine you like but don't subscribe to...you know, in the interest of saving a tree? Sure! Do you crave many Ecards and contact or are you okay with little contact from your Witch? I don't expect anything especific. what interests you from the latest lab update? My wishlist is up to date. How do you feel about stationery, like nice pens or notepaper? Pens can't be heavy. Aside from that, I love stationery. And if you're in favor, do you prefer classic/contemporary or cutesy stuff? I don't like to use children's stuff. As long as it doesn't look too childish, everything's fine. Would you like homemade preserves (e.g. marinated vegies, pickled onions, chilli jam?) that would be lovely. If you've got stuff on your BPAL wishlist, would partial bottles be okay? Yes. Would you like something you have to make yourself? Probably yes. Say you were my witchee, and I found things on your wishlist that I could totally make. Would you want me to make it? Or would you rather it be purchased for you? Handmade by you is an added value! Who is your favorite soap etailer? I really can't pick. I love nice handmade soaps in general, although as I think I0ve said before, I don't like Villainess's leather and smoky notes. What about vintage decoration items, teacups, etc etc? They probably wouldn't fit at home. With regards to your gifts, would you prefer your presents' awesomeness evenly spread out (several packages of pretty terrific things) over the round or a slow build-up of awesomeness (going up from pretty cool things to something super-duper cool at the end) to go out with a bang? Do you have a preference? Not really, whatever is more convenient for you. What kind of make-up do you wear? What colors? Is there anything you'd like to try but haven't yet? I like to wear make up to work but rarely make the time for it in the morning. I like natural colours. I have been trying to renovate it lately because I still kept some 10-year-old stuff from when I started to wear proper makeup!!! I like "normal", compact eyeshadow, and the only ones that aren't many many years old is a combination of taupe-grey; shades of golden-brown; shades of purple; shades of glittery purple. Having said this, I don't know if someone who has never met me can pick colours for me... Who would be on your top 5 (IE famous people you’d date/have relations with ) Martyn Bennett, Gene Kelly, Ewan McGregor, Winona Ryder, Alanis Morisette. And the Being Human protagonists. 9/12/10 Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to go to last.fm immediately and create an account! Download the scrobbler! Link us to your account! Look for me if you like. I think I'm laguiri. If you reject this assignment, maybe just tell us what your mp3 player says you listen to a lot? Deep Peace- Bill Douglas. Malaika - Angelique Kidjo. The Well Tempered Klavier - Daniel Ben Pienaar. Tongues of Kali - Martyn Bennett. Slumdog Millionaire OST - A R Rahman. L'Animale - Franco Battiato. The Rough Guide to the Music of Cape Verde. Would you enjoy homemade bath products (bath salts, fizzies, etc.) and/or linen sprays? Esp. if scented with some of your favorite BPAL scents? Nothing that can only be used in the bath, please. I'm a shower person. If you witch made you something and it didn't come out just right, would you still want it? yes. Are you a foodie? YES. Any sports fans in the house? What's your favorite sport/team/player? Not really. I like gymnastics, and synchronised swimming, but I don't really follow them. For holidays, do you decorate? Would you like decorative stuff, weenie or otherwise? If so, do you lean towards the elegant, the crafty/folksy, or the more, erm, campy? I only decorate at Christmas. Every decoration item I own except the creche is golden, beige, white or black and from IKEA. I don't really do campy. Do you like journals/notebooks/sketchbooks? Yes. Cake truffles? no, thanks. are you interested in mini bottles(under 100ml for hand luggage) of bath and body products? I love samples. Vampire shows, literature, etc? Yay or nay? Yes, if they're good, no, if they're not. I'm not a "vampire fan". If you play console video games, what game systems do you have and what games would you love to have? Not a gamer. How do you all feel about flowers and plants? Flower and plant seeds? Drawings of flowers or plants? Pressed flowers? all of that sounds nice, except maybe the seeds. I don't have a garden. How do you feel about marzipan? I live in a city that is a major world producer of the stuff. If you could have 3 BPAL bottles fall (gently) out of the sky right this second that you've been looking for or pining for - which 3 would they be? A back-up of The Gladdener of All Hearts. I use it as a bedtime blend only and I don't know what I'll do when it runs out. Then, Candy Butcher and Glukuprikos. Are there any international treats that you love and have a hard time finding? Teadirect. Green and Blacks chocolate. Penguins (far better than Timtams). Gudbrandalsost cheese (but you cannot send me that, it needs to stay cold). Is there anything from the 'Ween BPTP update that you would like but haven't ordered for yourself? I avoid the BPTP site, so wait a second.... Ginger skull, treatsy bath oil, both soaps. If you are a crafter, would you like to receive supplies from your witch (beads, fabric, yarn/roving etc?) That would be lovely. Find your iPod (or other MP3 device), put it on shuffle/random. What are the first five songs to come up? The mp3 player contains Hindu pop music (Bollywood soundtracks and such). From iTunes: Lover, You Should Have Come Over, Jeff Buckley Fresas José Mercé Clean (Solcofn Mashup) Depeche Mode The Jean Genie David Bowie Wild World Cat Stevens 1 Soundtracks you'd like? Can't think of any right now. If you could see one concert right now, who would it be? U2. They're playing in my hometown in two weeks, I can't afford to go and no one to go with. Would you like a bag of dried Honeycrisp apples? yes! If you were to receive a knitted item (such as a scarf, hat, etc), what colors would you like? And do you have any sensitivies/allergies to any materials? I like green, especially combined with blue; red, especially combined with black. I have a new coat in a deep salmon colour (the type of colour that would make people argue over whether it's orange or pinkish). Gift Certificate: physical or email? email. Favorite Yankee Candles? Or other brands scents? Not foody. Not pine. would you like a zuni animal fetish? And if so, what animal? Not really. I don't really identify with animals. And how does everyone feel about glow in the dark radishes? http://www.etsy.com/...=cat1_gallery_8 Oh, please, don't. What places to do you visit that you'd like a gift card to? Starbucks, Target, Wal-Mart, B&N, a favorite restaurant or clothing shop? I don't think you can get me a gift card to any real-world shop. If you can, and want to, I would buy groceries at Carrefour, makeup or gourmet food at El Corte Inglés, or books/music at Fnac. Cake or Frosting? Cake. What movie scared the bejeezus out of you as a child? One Superman, can't remember which. And Raiders of the Lost Ark. Name a couple of sites you frequent other than this one Shakesville, Serious eats, worldprayers. Do you like the Muppets? Which is your favorite? Kermit. If you could have any creature (real or imaginary) as a pet, what would it be? I'd like to have a greyhound or a cat. At the same time, I don't think I could make that sort of commitment to a living thing that wasn't my child. Comfort Rereads?: Yes, sometimes. If I don't think I would enjoy rereading a book, I give it away. Will you be going out of town during the round, or is there any other time during the round when it would not be ideal for you to receive a package from your witch? I don't think so, no. If you are in school now, what classes are you taking? Does anything you are currently studying really interest you? (if you are not in school, is there anything you are trying to learn?) I really should study more for my PhD, but you could say I'm doing it long-distance and part-time and I find it very, very hard to restart. What animal would your daemon be? Alternately, your patronus. I don't know why I think my patronus would be a rabbit. I like tigers and penguins. Penguins are intensely social and tigers intensely antisocial, so which one I identify which depends on my mood, I guess. What's YOUR favorite word? suave. elástico. Steampunk, yay or nay? If yay, what part appeals most? The aesthetics is pretty. I like the fantasy aspect of it. Do you have a special symbol or totem that is meaningful to you? I like round geometrical designs, things that suggest a circling motion like for example the Zen or the Recycle symbol. I also like the )0( triple goddess one. Do you need a box for your bpal bottles? Your imps? Your something else to put in a box stuff? I like boxes If you could be any person, being, or animal from Fantasy what or who would you be? A centaur. If you could go back to any point in time, where, when, why? Being a woman, travelling freely would be too difficult... I'd like to meet Jesus or prevent Jeff Buckley's death. Favorite Halloween Candy/Treat? None. What are your favorite baked goods/homemade treats? Things with fruit like mince pies or fruitcake. Would you be interested in an astrology birth chart? why not, but I don't know the hour of my birth. Socks? Sock Dreams? Anyone? I normally wear formal trousers so my socks are always black. What is something you use to comfort yourself when feeling yucky, depressed, or in pain? warm showers, lavender-scented stuff, tea. Favorite Halloween/Scary movies/books I don't like scary things very much. What would the name of your custom blend be? The description? This was in the questionnaire, wasn't it? COMIC BOOKS. Do you read them? Are there any series you like, or some you would like to try? Y: the last man is the only non-Gaiman one that I remember I want to read eventually. Warm drinks? Mmmmm. Tea, mostly. Celebrity crush?: The Being Human protagonists. All of them. Knitted things?: As long as they're not itchy.... please no toys. What about [mixed or otherwise] DVDs? That would be nice. I think there are a few on my wishlist, but if there's anything you think I'd enjoy, feel free. Baked Goods? It's not a good idea to send me anything with a eat-by period of less than three weeks. Family Prezzies? Not necessary at all, but it would be nice to have something for my very geeky fiancé. Bottles/lots of little samples? Depends on the item. I use imps, most of the time, and only buy bottles of extra-special stuff. Social Networking I'm all over the place but I use them mostly in Spanish. I'm active on twitter as laguiri. Groupons or similar deals/gift certificates? Not applicable in Spain, I guess. T-Shirt/PJ size Girly T-shirt size: L. Men's Tshirt size: M. This reminds me: I hate Threadless. Hate hate hate. Mix CDs Love them. Hallowe'en plans? I don't do Halloween. Girly Index: Trying. Soft/plushy things I grew out of soft toys at 11. Jane Austen? Love. Love love love. I'm not doing my PhD about her so that I keep enjoying her... Do you read Tarot cards? If not, would you be interested? A friend reads them for me once a year. That's it. eBooks Not yet. I'll convert eventually. Guilty TV pleasure Honestly, none. I spent too much time online. social networks sites are my guilty pleasure. Cosplay/costume I love dressing up but never do. About bellydance stuff, I'm undecided. I never like the way tops look on me. Harry Potter house Ravenclaw. Alan Rickman, David Tennant, the Winchester Boys? I like Alan Rickman very much, but I wouldn't watch a film just because he's in it. I don't know who the others are. Scented Tarts: How do you dispose of them when they're used?? Lip Balms? I prefer lipstick. Body Mods: earrings. I plan a tattoo of a geometrical circular pattern on my left hip and multiple piercings on my left earlobe. Booze? Yes. It annoys me that Gintonic is in fashion as it no longer seems my signature drink. I also like red wine and many other things. What is your favorite artist or art style? I'm awful at picking favorites. I'd say Klimt or Charles Rennie Macintosh. Maybe. I love art museums. Favorite Snack? Crunchy things. Cashews, tiny pickles (our pickles are sugarfree so they are VERY sour), natural-flavour crisps. Nail Polish: I normally wear bluey-greeny shades and sometimes pink. What hobby/craft would you like to learn how to do? Sewing, cake decoration. For those who decorate for Halloween, do you prefer cute decorations or creepy ones? As I said before, I don't do Halloween. How do you feel about mortars and pestles? I have one. Is there anything you have a phobia of, or that would make you go "squick" if you saw it in a package? Porn, but you're not thinking of sending me that, right? When you go to an etsy wishlist, it will tell you what things are sold. If you click on the sold item, sometimes it will give options that are similar to what was sold, but not identical. How picky are you? That's why I prefer to list crafters instead of items. That way you get a general idea of what I like. Make up? I use it, but I'd rather not receive it as a gift from someone who hasn't met me. Disney movies, Yay or Nay, and favourites if you do like them? Zero interest in Disney films after Beauty and the Beast. I have some interest in the classic ones. I must be the only person in the world whose favourite Disney film is Fantasia. Do you have A VCR, DVD Player or Blue Ray or a combo of the three? I watch DVDs on my computer. That's all. Do you prefer your DVD widescreen or formatted? Widescreen.

Thanks!

So, a while ago, probably on the last SW round, a forumite said she had created an online database so that we could keep our collection in order. I created an account and forgot all about it, and now I can't remember the name of the website. Does anyone know what I'm talking about?

Let's see.... it smells a bit like shower gel (according to The Boy) in a way that reminds me of cool-aquatic blends. It's like an aquatic blend without the lotus. There is mint, but not a lot of it. It's a very distant relation of Snow White and it's not creamy at all. Overall, it's a very elusive scent. It smells clean and kind of "empty". It gives the feeling of a snowfall but it doesn't smell like one at all.

Snow Glass Apples is not much better than The Hesperides. Actually to me all apple blends fall into two categories: fresh apple = Hesterides is always nicer. Spicy apple = Ladon is always nicer.

Out of the BPAL blends that resemble commercial perfumes, this is my favourite. It does seem simple, flat, as the description says, "without substance". Still, it is very pleasant and sometimes I just want a perfume that won't make my coworkers say that the staffroom smells of churchy incense.... It has a perfect blend of freshness and floral. I swapped for an imp because I love tuberose and tiaré and I was curious about how they would mingle. Tiaré is generally much sweeter than this perfume, where it is nicely balanced with the citrus and the lemon tree blossom. It's a pity that this is a LE. It's like the BPAL equivalent of white shirt and blue jeans.

Dear witch: I will be very, very grateful for any gifts for my boyfriend. Anything to help me with his Christmas gifts! He's really the best thing in my life and I'd like to give him many small surprises this Christmas, so if you send me anything for him, warn me beforehand so I can hide it discreetly until the right time. Henna: No, thanks. Calendars: No, thanks. Journals in the sense of organisation journals for 2010: I'm already covered. Journals, as in, pretty notebooks: always welcome. What are your thoughts on Halloween decorations? As I've said before, not interested. What tarot card do you most identify with? The lovers, and to some extent, the queen of swords. The Boy is the King of Cups. He always appears in my readings. ******9/23***** Who collects ACEOs/ATCs? Not me. If you could describe yourself in 5 words, what would they be? Feminist, foody, perfectionist, in love. Do you collect new/used stamps? No. Any WKAP you're excited about? Not really. How do you feel about stationary? (pens, notepads, cards, pencils, etc.) It's always good. Tea lovers, loose or bag? Paraphernalia? Both. Loose black tea unless it's teadirect, herbal in bags, usually. Would you object to annonomous postcards (real ones) from your witch before the big reveal??? That would be nice. Beetroot: I like them, but I don't get the fuss. Trading post: I don't dare to look in the website. I got the Forbidden Brides scent locket because it came out at the same time that I got a rash from any blend with cinnamon... Mizayaki: Love. Love love love. I don't own anything and I don't think I've watched everything. Alcohol: I like drinking it with meals and making cocktails. I think I have a very Mediterranean attitude to it; Alcohol is a food group comparable to sweets. Better had often but in small amounts. Mojo bags: As someone said in the forum, I'd rather have spell components than a spell made for me. But thanks for the thought. Do you wear lip gloss/lip balm? If so, what flavors/scents? Not really, I prefer lipstick. What is one thing you constantly keep with you that you constantly loose? Everything! Especially my keys :S What are your favorite fruits? Cherries. I like berries but strawberries are the only available ones over here. I like most fruits although I find apples boring. What is your favorite cookie type? I prefer European style biscuits. The only cookies I like are oatmeal and raisin. Are you into 80s movies (like i am ) if so, which are your favorites and who are your favorite characters? Can't really think of any. Do you mind artificial colors in your food? No. Who wants hair pretties?(headbands, barrettes, pony-o's, scrunchies, bobby pins, hair clips, etc) Haven't I answered this already? If you were my witchee, would you like any of the scents/sizes that are available on clearance? This refers, I think, to Big Dipper candles. I don't need candles to be scented, so it all sounds nice. I am on an origami crane kick recently, so I wonder if anyone will be interested in origami crane earrings, origami crane in a glass vial (~1.2cm wide) phone charm/pendant or just a container filled with cranes of different sizes.The Boy is in charge of the origami!! Origami paper would be a great gift for him. How do you feel about clothing/accessories made from animals? Anti-fur, leather, shells, etc.? Does even faux wig you out? I don't like the look and feel of fake fur. I don't like stuff made from wild animals (such as coral). Leather and feathers are fine. How do you deal with stress? What's your favorite way to unwind? I'm awful at stress management. My favourite remedies are big mugs of tea, long showers, and perfumes that include lavender. You're given the opportunity to apprentice at any trade (or craft) of your choosing for the period of one year. Your mentor may be any currently living person. Which field of study would you choose, and who would be your mentor? The craft is, certainly, bellydance. It would be hard to pick a mentor. Re: candles. I love candles. I use them for religious reasons, to create an atmosphere, as decoration, for light, and finally for scent, which is not a necessary characteristic. I like fresh, floral, perfumey smells more than foody ones. Spicy smells are nice. I don't get how can pumpkin be a good smell for a candle or a perfume. I hate candles that don't burn well - for example, funny-shaped ones. Who is musically inclined? What instruments (voice counts) do you play? Would you enjoy sheet music? I love music, but I can't sing or play. Favorite musicals? Any and all. From Fred Astaire to Bollywood. Which of the seven deadly sins is most likely to be your undoing? Rage and Gluttony. Anyone want a nickname and embroidered headband from PandaBite? Not me. I have seen a lot of yankee candles haters..... personally i like yankee candle (some of them, anyway). do you or don't you, and if not, what candles do you like? this assumes you like candles. otherwise, what specific home fragrance do you use? I've used their tarts once or twice, and that's all. Would a "gift" donation to one of the organizations/causes you support be a great gift, or a lame gift? It would be absolutely fantastic. Does anyone have any symbols they consider to be personally significant or talismanic? Not really. I think that the reason is probably that I rely on language way too much. Another reason is that I don't like the Cross very much because I just see it as the instrument of torture it once was. I like aums, and the triple goddess sign, but they're not particularly representative of me. I also like Brigid's cross, Celtic and Chinese knots, and geometrical patterns that represent circular movement (even Recycle symbols!) Are there any Gods, Goddess, or other mythological figures of whom you're particularly fond? Christian saints: the poets, the writers, the mystics. St Thomas of Aquinas (patron saint of teachers), St John of the Cross (his day of remembrance in the church is the day before my birthday), Theresa of Avila, St Francis and St Clare. St Bede. I have a problem with the Virgin Mary as I hate the way that she has been taught to women as an impossible model to imitate Pagan Gods: Athenea, probably. I'm very curious about the main female Indian deitis (Durga, Shakti, Shiva, in that order). Shiva. Ganesh. Odin. Yggdrasil. It breaks my heart that the Yggdrasil and Odin BPALs give me headaches. Super villain or vigilante? Which would you like to be? Which would you like to receive? I'm a vigilante already. I'm a teacher, ¿remember? What mythical or fantastic race of creatures (dragons, unicorns, griffins, elves, dwarves, faeries, etc.) do you most identify with, and why? I'm a Sagittarius and I quite liked centaurs when I was a child. I imagined them wise and strong and in a confused way I thought I could / would become one. But I'm actually a hobbit. I like to eat every two hours and I love mushrooms. How do you feel about Dia de los Muertos? Are you interested in sugar skulls? Catrina (or other) skeleton figurines? No, and no. All the dead people in my life leave me with a sense of missed opportunities. It's just a sad occasion. Do you have a favorite poem or poet? Many! Shakespeare, John Donne, E E Cummings, Alan Spence, Seamus Heaney, and classical Japanese haiku writers. To name a few. For the crafty people out there: would you prefer something crafted or crafting supplies? Either. Both. Can you use pill boxes, a hard ID case, coin purse, etc? yes to pill boxes. I have a coin purses but I'd love something that fitted a handful of Kleenex (the plastic packs tend to break inside my handbag), and now that I think about it, a lanyard that went well with my light purple coin purse would be great. On my coffee break, I go to the nearest café with my keys and my coin purse and no handbag (because it is huge) and sometimes I forget them! Any songs you are desperately into at the moment? Not just now, no. What's autumn like in your neck of the woods? What do you love and/or hate about it? I know two autumns: The autumn in the Sevilla-Huelva area (extreme south-west Spain) and my current place of residence, which is extreme south too but a mountain area. Up to last year, I knew three seasons. Spring, Summer, Winter. "autumn" was rainy winter. It only rains in November and early spring. People say "there is no autumn here" and the season is fundamentally grey. Since last year, there is a difference between autumn and winter. Winter is clearly colder. And Autumn is a countdown to Christmas because this town lives on the sale of Christmas sweets to the rest of Spain. The place smells of spices for four months. I like the beginning of the school year, the countdown to Christmas, and the end of the unbearable heat of the summer. I dislike the rain and the greyness. I wish trees went red. If you're caught in front of the tv, what are you watching? The news. I could be watching CSI or Law and Order but The Boy hates those with a passion, and Law and order is satellite only and I don't have satellite TV any more. Any Amy Brown art fans? I just took a quick look. I'm on a search of female images that aren't too cute, passive or childlike. Amy Brown looks a little bit likew what I'm looking for. Or... ask galahad were he got the stuff he used for CD sleeves and ecards. How do you feel about Halloween music? (mix CDs, what have you) As I have said before, I'm not a Halloween fan. Who else is reeeeeally looking forward to Tim Burton's Alice In Wonderland? Me! Is there a store that you love which does not have a location near you (but that has a physical presence somewhere, not just online? Why do you love it so much? I live in the middle of nowhere, population 12,000. Aside from the basics, I do most of my shopping in other places. I miss bookshops most of all. Lolcats....yeah or nay? yay. What is your favorite creepy folk story or legend? I can't really think of any just now. If your witch were to either write something for you or put together a collection of ghost stories, would you rather have it in writing, recorded as an oral telling, or both? I think I'd prefer it in writing. If you had the funds to comission an original painting for yourself, what would it be of? What would it be like- colors, size, style? I have asked a friend of mine who studies Fine Arts at Uni to make a painting for The Boy. I cannot make a description to you because it illustrates something about a Spanish childhood in the 80's - it doesn't translate. If it was a painting for me, I'd probably like an oil painting with a bouquet of white or blue flowers, in bright colors. What's something you're really looking forward to in the semi-near future?A day on the beach if we get one last sunny weekend before autumn starts properly. A Mapplethorpe exhibition. Friends visiting. What fictional character do you most identify with and why? I used to think I had a crush on Jane Eyre. Now I think I identify with her. I'm a teacher, I have a big mouth and I'm worried about not being good enough. Could you use a 'travel' imp case? How many should it hold? Anything from 5 to 20. Altoid tin size max. As a witchee, would you prefer to have many little packages sent to you throughout the round with a not-so-big final package or fewer things throughout the round with one huge final package to seal the sweetness? I answered this on the forum. What is your idea of the perfect evening at home? Eating with The Boy a light but elaborate meal that I enjoyed cooking, with dessert. Followed by a massage by candlelight. Sex optional. Are you on any social networks (MySpace, Twitter, LJ, Facebook, Bebo, etc)? If so, make with the links! Are you open to new friends? I have a dozen blogs , I have Facebook, and I'm on Twitter as laguiri. I don't use them to make new friends but to stay in contact with RL ones. What kind of socks? Black and discreet. I used to love colourful ones but they don't look good with the sort of clothes I wear to work these days. How often do you update your wishlist? Whenever there's an update or I get a new batch of imps. It's always up to date. It has everything I have not tried and does not contain notes of doom, that is why it's so long. May I help you fill out your costuming wardrobe (assuming you costume)? Are there articles you are seeking to enhance your a) Halloween costume, Renfest attire, c) Cosplay, d) Steampunk accouterment? No costuming here. Except bellydancing, and I'm not dancing in public at the moment, so... Who are your favorite artists/illustrators/art periods? Too many to mention. I like Charles Rennie Mackintosh, rennaissance art... just lots of things. What's your stance on cranberries? yum. Do you mind receiving used (in good condition, of course) CDs or DVDs? (I know this question was on the questionnaire about books, but I didn't see one for DVDs or CDs.) That's not a problem, of course! Do you have a crush on anyone famous? Do you have a crush on any literary characters? Would you like fanfiction or fan art based on this/these people? Not really, not right now, and no thanks. You're at home, or out, and you want a snack. Something that will get you through to the next meal, or through to the end of school or what ever. What do you grab? A biscuit, probably. Or cheese and bread. Do you have a favorite bpal bottle art? Not that I remember. Are there any decants from the Halloweenies, Literary Vampires, Gris Grimly, or Hellboy that you would be interested in receiving? I joined a decant circle so there's nothing I need There has been a lot of talk about chocolate, but none about Candy! What is your favorite Candy? What candy do you hate? I like many types of candy. I don't like Reese cups, most mints, and most liquorice. I hate salty liquorice. Do you have a Blu-Ray player? No. Do you have any objections to receiving downloads? No. Is your internet connection fast enough for you to download large files like music easily? yes. Are there any songs, albums, movies, or TV shows that you can't find/haven't been released that you want? Doctor Who. I saw a season or two when I was about eleven and then it wasn't on TV any more, ever again. Are you interested in things like home remedies for ailments, cleaning solutions, etc.? yes, why not. If you do any kind of craft, could you use supplies? What kind? knitting needles, yarn, amazing fabric, pinking shears, cool thimbles or pincushins, jewelery making supplies, beads, etc.? fabric would be lovely, although I haven't learnt to sew yet (there's an etsy shop in my favourites). I'd love very thick wool. For jewelry, nice findings and beads are always welcome! What's your favorite pain-relief remedy or ritual? A long hot shower. Massage is good. When all else fails, Ibuprofen. Do sounds make you happy? What ambient noises make you smile? Yes... I like to hear my boyfriend sing, and birdsong, and the wind on trees. When you receive your SW packages...do you like receiving things that are individually wrapped inside? or unwrapped? or both? Definitely individually wrapped. I love to open a box with a dozen surprises. Of course, we're all going to be grateful no matter what our witches give us, but for the record, what is your anti-present? Tell us something that you think your future witch might give you that you absolutely, unequivocally DO. NOT. WANT. Tazo or Stash tea, I don't like them. Soap, I have too much at the moment. That's it. What BPAL scent have you never tried but always wanted to? What scent have you tried and LOVED, and haven't been able to get more of and why? Always wanted, never tried: most of the Salons on my wishlist. I don't like to buy bottles unsniffed and they aren't very popular on the swaps forums. Tried, loved, never again: Emathides (bought an imp, it broke!) and Candy Butcher (bought an imp, it disappeared!!!) I know we're all scent sensitive here. What are your favorite non-perfume smells? Day in the life stuff? Many food ones: olive oil, the sweet factories in my town, most spices... I like the smell of the country more than the sea. Coffee drinkers, what types of beans to you like? Kona, Sumatra, Kenya..etc. How do you like them roasted? Do you like flavors, such as hazelnut, vanilla, etc. in your coffee? I'm not a big coffee fan. Who has a birthday falling in this round? Not me. I'm a December baby. For those of us who like chocolate, do you like anything /in/ your chocolate, like fruit, nuts, or for the more daring among us, chilies? Chillies are kind of OK. I like almonds but NOT hazelnuts or macadamias. Fruit is always great. I love chocolate with candied ginger. Are there any childhood shows/movies/games/books/etc. that still hold a really special place in your heart? The average stuff of an eighties childhood. I was a BIG fan of Michael Ende and Maria Gripe. Super power? dividing myself into five or six to get five times as many things done. If I send you whole spices or coffee beans, would you be able to grind them or would you prefer them preground for your convenience? No coffee, please. Spices? I have a pestle and I find using it quite therapeutic. For the tea and coffee drinkers: Opinion on tea- and/or coffee-related accessories/etc? (Teaware, sugar crystals, infusers, tea chests, etc)How do you take your coffee (or tea)? Black or with cream and/or sugar? I love mugs (not huge ones). I like flavoured black tea (with flowers, spices or fruits) without sugar or milk; green or herbal tea also plain; Black tea with milk; chai with milk and sugar. Restaurants you'd like a gift certificate to on Restaurant.com? Not available in my country, I'm afraid. In your perfect world it is chocolate and...? my boyfriend to share it with. How do you scent your home: tarts, reed diffusers, BPAL, candles? The Boy prefers incense sticks. Sometimes I scent a candle with BPAL. I only have an oil burner which is a bit too small to hold tarts; I prefer oil to tarts anyway. I0ve never used reed diffusers but they sound like a good idea. What's your favorite dessert treat? Ice cream? Cake? Pie? Fudge brownie cake with pie flavored ice cream on top? This is the hardest question in the entire round. Do you believe we control our destiny, or does our destiny control us? I don't believe in destiny. Catholics are not supposed to, and it is probably the most Catholic thing about my worldview. Actually, the destiny vs. freedom, predestination vs. randomness question makes me very uncomfortable. What one thing that is missing from your life would you like to have above all else? My life is pretty good at the moment. I don't know what I wish the most; getting married or perfect health. Economical stability for The Boy is a prerequisite for getting married.... What was your favouritest job ever, and why? My current one. I'm a high school teacher, with only one year of experience. I teach English as a Foreign Language to kids ages 13 to 18! I like working with teenagers a lot more than I thought. And the school I'm in is very good. Which three albums would you take to your apocalypse bolt hole and how would you power the generator? The Beatles Blue album (the compilation of late greatest hits), Pink Floyd's The Wall, and The Well-Tempered Klavier. My boyfriend would take care of the generator. What GC scent have you been putting off getting since it'll "always be there"? Salons. They are the last of my GC priorities. Any cooks? Could you use anything cooking related? Aprons? Cookbooks? Measuring Cups? Recipes? Herb/Spice containers? Fancy Spices? Dish Towels? Cocktail napkins? Amazing Beaded Pot Holders? (like from our very own Pottersville! ) Something else? I love cooking. An apron would be fantastic, this is what I said in the summer round: I need something that covers the chest, and ideally with pockets. My mother has one like a pinafore that ties with ribbons on the sides, but she didn't let me have it magtongue.gif I've included a couple of apron makers on my etsy favorites icon_biggrin.gif And I like what I see in this website. The problem with this fashion of cute aprons is that they are clearly Cookbooks: unless it's on my Amazon wishlist, I'm not interested because I like to have practical cookbooks, and to use them, and right now I have quite a few. Measuring cups, I prefer to cook by weight. Recipes would be nice. Spice containers: I have a problem there because I have 30 or 40 different spices and they are all in differently shapped containers, so I dream of having a spice rack but that's just not possible. Fancy spices: this is all that I'd like and don't have (or can't get easily), according to Wikipedia: Chinese 5-spice. Sage. Curry leaf. Lemongrass. Poppy seeds. Nigella (onion seeds). Cardamom. Tamarind paste. Allspice. Dish towels: sounds nice, they are always useful. Napkins: no thanks. Potholders: that would be great, I actually need one or two. 50's-inspired and I don't like the period that much. I like them cute, but not in a "50's kitsch" way. Are you an avid reader? What's your favorite book/series? I love to read. I find it very hard to pick favorites but you can imagine I have to love Charles Dickens to be finishing a PhD about him. What's your favorite candy to stock up on at Halloween? I don't do Halloween. I like most types of candy, especially sour or chewy ones. What are your phobias? I'm afraid of falling down stairs. What is your favourite flower (or plant)? I like blue flowers! And zinnias. Duct tape purses and wallets and things are pretty darned cool. Who else thinks so? My boyfriend probably would. An anonymous benefactor gives you $500 (or an equivalent amount of money in your currency of choice) with the following stipulations. You must spend all of it within a week: any money left unspent must be returned. You must spend at least half of the money on yourself. You may not use it to pay off debts or bills of any kind. What do you do with the money? I'd spend the whole week trying to decide which is The Perfect, All-Occasions Handbag. And the last day I'd buy it. Who likes coloring books? Not me. Do you have a Good Reads profile? If so, make with the link! I mostly use it to keep track of my pile of unread books. http://www.goodreads.com/review/list/1910 You're in the kitchen at the end of a pay period and groceries are pretty scarce. Do you take the five ingredients you find first and make something fabulous, or do you order take out? I think I've eaten take out once in the last 13 months. Does that answer your question? If you could decorate/redecorate any 1 room in your home, what would it be and how would you decorate it? The bedroom. All I can think is that I would burn one of the closets and get a much bigger, modern, simpler one. Any rabid sports fans out there? What teams do you root for? Not really. This is Soccerland and I'm not that interested. I love sports that are in some way dance-related (Synchro, gymnastics...) but the unfairness of the judges and the media are too discouraging. What's your favorite animal? (You can have more than one.) Tigers and penguins. This is how the world ends... zombie apocalypse, robot uprising, alien invasion, return of the elder gods... which doomsday scenario do you prefer (or make your own!)? The death of the Sun. It's going to swell up and swallow us. In the year 2525... if man is still alive... what sort of future do you imagine? (apologies to anyone who gets that song stuck in their head!) It's going to be harsh after we destroy biodiversity irreversibly. Do you believe in magic (or magick, if you prefer)? What does it mean to you? I believe most of the basic principles of Wicca. My Christianity has a strong Wicca leaning. If you found the puzzle box from Hellraiser, what would you do with it? ( and would you be able to resist playing with it? Considering that all my knowledge of Hellraiser is second-hand from my boyfriend, I'd be in a dilemma. Showing it to him because he'd find it very cool? Or hiding it away because he loves fixing things??? Do you like pinup art/images? No. What are your plans for Halloween? Have you made any yet? Do you have any traditions? As I have said before, I'm not interested in Halloween, but I have a Wiccan friend who is a solitary witch living about 90 minutes away from me, it's going to be on a Saturday, and it's her favourite Wiccan holiday, so I might go and just have lunch with her at some point that weekend. Who are your BPAL forum buddies? You know, people I could conspire with to Witch you! I'm not sure. Some people who know me better than the rest are Baitu and Lilirose. My past witches have been Kristana and Galahad. What is your favorite color? Green-and-blue. Any other steampunk fans/lovers? Yes for the boyfriend. Me, by association. Describe your ideal picnic lunch. Where would you go? Who (if anyone, and yes there can be multiple people) would accompany you? What sort of food would you take? And, of course, if a picnic lunch sounds like a horrible idea, feel free to say so! It would have to be in the spring because the summer here is too hot and the fall, too rainy. The only must-have food is Spanish-style potato omelette (like a fritatta). We'd have it in a park and I picture in it some of my dance friends, yoga classmates and even workmates. Say, about a dozen people. Any Gamers here? What kind? Board games? RPG? Miniature? MMORPG? Not me. The boyfriend loves nostalgic things... videogames from the 80's and 90's. Is anyone playing this round of SW into ABJ? (asian ball jointed dolls) Not me. What is your favorite Halloween icon? neh. Imagine that you're given a shoebox-sized time capsule, and you are asked to put any number of items in the box that symbolize who you are. The items can be may be anything you can imagine, and money is no object, but they must fit within the box. Which items do you choose? My poetry. Some novels: Dombey and Son, Written on the Body, The Frozen Heart. Some olive oil. My moonstone ring, if it didn't have so much sentimental value. Favorite kind or take out kinda burger? Whats your burger preference? Veggie,meat or ???? I'd rather have a Serranito (a "little one from the mountains". Take a boneless porkchop, a slice of dry-cured ham, a slice of tomato and a fried green pepper. Put inside a white roll or similar piece of bread. Eat with fries. Whats your favorite childhood toy? A doll called Nancy. She was sort of a Spanish reaction to Barbie but she was about 15 inches high and with quite natural proportions. Mine were actually borrowed from my mom's; she couldn't afford dolls as a child and my father bought her about three Nancys before I was born. It's funny but she's the only toy I remember very well, the only logical answer to this question even though I think I played more with other toys. If you have a pet, what kind of gifts would be good for them? Does the boy count? He likes machines and computers, and origami, and sweets. Do you Tweet? What is your Twitter name? I'm laguiri, but I tweet in Spanish. Are you on Ravelry? What is your Ravelry name? I don't know what that is. What are everyone's favorite Halloween-y/Autumn-y/spooky movies? Are there any you don't own but would like to? I can't stand any sort of physical violence on film so all the scary films I like are ghost stories, like The Others. Are roasted pumpkin seeds and home made chex mix the best fall snack foods, or what? Pumpkin seeds are nice, but I doubt I'd like chex mix. Whats your favorite pie, my dear SW's? I prefer cake to pie. I prefer fruit pies. What kinda socks ar you wearing tonight? Are you kidding? I'm wearing flipflops, otherwise my feet would melt. Do you like socks? Blankets? Wrist warmers? Arm warmers? Headband? Shawl? Or what kind of knitted thing would you love the most? Socks: I wear boring black. Blankets are nice, but too heavy for you to post. Wrist warmers sound nice, arm warmers are an interesting idea but I don't know if I'd use them. a Shawl would be amazing. How do you feel about ghost stories? Do you like to tell the old tales around a campfire? Read true accounts on the web way past your bedtime? Do you like to pick up a good anthology of Poe stories on a blustery day? Or is all that too scary for you? I do like to read ghost stories. Who here is LOVING Warehouse 13? Have never heard of that. Nother question! Coffee or Tea? I like coffee but I don't drink much of it. I love tea. Interested in locally produced products? Food, skincare or both?Olive oil? Lavender oils or soaps? Yes. Both. I live in a place that officially produces the best olive oil in Spain. Lavender-scented anything is considered a staple in this house (as in, there's perfume and then there's lavender; there's two soaps on the shower: one must be lavender and the other keeps changing). Does anyone in here wear a lot of dangly earrings or collect pendants of all kinds?? How about hair clips or pony tail band things? My usual jewelry is: a pair of dangly earrings and one bracelet, or a short necklace and tiny earrings. Sometimes I wear pendants. cut-and-pasting from a summer round question: This is what I can and can't wear on my hair from the first Google result for "hair clips". NOOOOOO: Alice bands, barrettes that consist on a piece of leather and a stick that goes through it, very big barettes, beak clips, "bendies" or "sleepies", bobbles, clips, combs, thin elastics YAY: Barrettes like this type, especially if they're about one inch long (so I can just hold the two locks of hair that fall on my face), claw clips that are not very big (they wouldn't hold the hair at the front), thicker elastics, cloth scrunchies (NOT the ones with stuff attached, like beads), headbands and headwraps (not a big fan, though). What is your favourite historical period? The Victorian period, probably. What other hot beverages everyone likes for fall? Most herbal teas. Did you order anything from the most recent update? I don't think so. Can you believe I don't remember? Vampires or Werewolves? Or some other monster? Vampires. I like my villains cool and sophisticated. What sort of odd or regional foods do you crave? Norwegian sweet cheese. Gudbrandalsost. When I was a child, my family had Norwegian friends who brought it with them oncce a year. It's not available in Spain so it's something I miss a lot.

Green herbs slithering through mint, lime and lavender. Wet, on first sniff, I thought this smelled like a slightly less sweet Undertow ("lotus and juniper with a hint of mint"). So, it makes me think that there is some juniper among the "green herbs" here. As it dries down, the mint remains very fresh, accompanied by a herbal smell that feels somewhat edible. I don't perceive any lavender or lime.

These are some similarities I have found: Pollution - Paco by Paco Rabanne. Probably close to CK One, too. Amsterdam - Sunflowers, Elizabeth Arden. Casanova - similar (and better than) Cacharel Pour Homme.

I second Wanda and any other blend with red wine like Madrid and Lady Macbeth. The latest 13, if you have it. Any blend with coffee, such as Mata Hari. If you like fruity blends, Black Pearl is a lovely floral with coconut. Sounds weird but it does feel black to me. French Love. The least sweet of the ylang-ylang based blends I've tried. Maybe Kali, if you like sweet blends. If you don't like foodies or florals: Alecto (Olive leaf, raspberry leaf, vetiver and cedarwood), Black Forest ( Thick, viscous pine with ambergris, black musk, juniper and cypress.), Black Opal, Black Phoenix.

Dark Delicacies new stuff: I'm not very attracted to scents that come without a description. So, nothing really. Do you have a favorite insect, like a ladybug or dragonfly? Do butterflies or praying mantis creep you out? I like ladybugs, BUT for a long time some people assumed wrongly that I loved them and gave me several ladybug-shaped items. Only roaches and ants creep me out. Buterflies have been one of my favourite animals for a long time until I discovered that baby butterflies are worms that like to eat MY Brussel sprouts. I like spiders and in general, bugs that eat other bugs, rather than my vegetables. Who knows about wizard rock and wants more? Who doesn't know but wants to? I'm curious. What's the wallpaper/screensaver on your computer? A Jessiga Hagy cartoon. Do you like Sugar Ray (the band not the boxer)? I don't think I'd like them, no. Would you be interested in receiving some pasties from your witch? No, thanks. How did you get your forum name? It's my real name. Well, it's what foreigners call me because my real name is a mouthful. Anything from the trunk show? Things I have tried and would love more of: THIRTEEN OCTOBER 2006, Emathides, Milk Moon. Things I haven't tried but sound good: Snow Maiden, All Souls, Chiroptera, E Pluribus Unum, TKO v3. Anything from the newest ebay listing? Death on a Pale Horse. "If I could be I would be a cat for a day." A cat, or an amazing dancer, for the same reason. I'd like to know how it feels to be so strong and flexible. Either that, or a man. What are your favorite types of baked goods? How would you feel about candied citrus peel, chocolate-covered or not? Would you be interested in the mix version of the baked goods or perhaps a spice mix, something along those lines? If you sent me any chocolate product in this weather it would melt in transit. I love candied citrus peel in any form and I use it to make fruitcake. A spice mix or a recipe would be wonderful. I love baked goods in general. I prefer things that are not too sweet or too greasy (I don't like cakes with whipped cream, meringue, etc). Some of my favourite recipes are low-fat fruitcake (my speciality), "normal" scones, potato scones (they turn a complete disaster when I try to make them), Scandinavian gingerbread, Spanish almond-based things. Question...do you fret or take it personally when your witch or witchee gets too quiet? Like they figured you out and don't like you? This is two different questions. About "disppearing", I take it easily, although I do prefer them to post on the forum moree or less regularly. About not liking me, honestly, I think that it's very hard to dislike a witch or a witchee. I may think "this person is hard to find gifts for" or "this person has nothing in common with me". Dislike would require a lot more contact! Do you try to figure out who your witch is? Do you want your witch to give you clues? I like my witch to be herself. If destiny pair me up with someone who likes a lot of contact and we end up MSN friends, fantastic. If complete anonymity is important for her, that's fantastic too. Who has a Kindle? If you do, would you like a Kindle gift card, Kindle accessories, etc. as a gift? Whadda you need? I don't like to read books from a screen. In fact, the time I spend online is probably one of the reasons I don't read as much poetry as I'd like. What about other electronics (Blackberries, iPhone, etc.)? Do you need any accessories, etc. for those? I don't think I need anything, thanks. I'd like to know if my witchee likes Rasputina, and would like any music by them? I've just heard what's available on their website. Sounds intriguing but not really my thing. What new scents from the update are calling your name?: Too much!!!! Most of the Mad Tea Party, Stinky, and Berry Moon! Is there anything you will like from Singapore or Asia in general? Phew... probably candy, although I'm not familiar with the flavours and brands. Do you play any musical instruments? Which ones? If not, are there any you'd like to learn? What styles of music do you play, and are you interested in learning any different styles? I love music but I can't play anything. Are you partial to any kind of comedy? I don't know... I hate offensive humour but aside that, everything's fine. What did you do for the 4th and/or the holiday weekend? It wasn't a holiday here, but I went to a short dance workshop, had lunch at an Indian restaurant with a friend and her new boyfriend, visited my in-laws, and had dinner at my parents' to meet my aunt and her boyfriend (whom I had never met before). A very active weekend! Partials, samples, sniffies? Everything on my wishlist is stuff I've never tried unless I say something different. It includes everything I'd like to test, rather than everything I'd like to own. So yes, sniffies are wonderful. Have you read anything by China Mieville, Neil Gaiman or Charles de Lint? If so, what? Like/dislike...?? I love Gaiman and don't know the other two. Do you like musicals? What have you seen? What do you want to see? Any you'd like to own? I LOVE musicals. Any and all. What are your thoughts on J.R.R. Tolkein? I like him quite a lot. I have all the major works already. If you answered that you would like recipes, are there any national or ethnic cuisines you prefer or don't prefer? I like nearly everything. I don't eat a lot of meat, I don't like to combine meat and dairy, and I like spices but not chillies. This rules out Mexican, I think. What's your favorite summer activity? Beginning a book after lunch, and read it in one go, not going to bed until five AM. Would you like a recipe booklet (homemade) for homemade smoothies and shakes? sure, that'd be lovely. What's your favorite vacation spot? Glasgow and NYC. I like to spend my holidays in cities, visiting museums, going shopping and trying new food. Would you like anything nostalgic? Things you loved from their childhood or maybe things you've always loved that were from a time before your own? I like Regency dresses, but you don't have to send me one The one nostalgic thing from my childhood that I have in common with the average BPAL user is Sesame Street and I already have all the toys I need or want... What styles of jewelry do you like? Bold and funky? Delicate and dainty? Short necklaces, long ones, chokers? Bracelets or anklets? I prefer it delicate. I prefer long earrings to short. I never wear long necklaces and I rarely wear bracelets unless I'm dancing. Enabling: This shop is dedicated to African-American haircare. My hair isn't African but it's curly and dry so this website sounds good. Does my witchee like hats, a floppy summer sun hat or something more stylish? Would you like a hand knit cap or hat? I can only wear hats when it's very, very cold. And I think I'd like to see and choose them myself. Non-melting candies....what are your favorites? sour ones, probably. What are you happiest about (besides SW)? What makes you feel good this summer? Any summer? This summer: free time, at last. Any summer: normally, the possibility of travelling. Summer fruits. I spend all the spring looking forward to the cherry season. Do you like coffee and/or wine? Coffee: yes, wine YES. What are your thought on World Market? I've just seen the website, it looks ok. If you are a dog lover, or gigantic dog nerd like I am, would you like any breed-related items from this site? If so, which breed(s)? I don't like dogs, or pets in general, very much. Who out there is equally challenged and would appreciate icons/banners as witchy gifts? I would. Lip balm? I prefer lipstick. Have you any desire to read Hannibal? Absolutely not. If your witch goes to Convergence (or is bestest friends with someone, same thing), is there anything you'd love to have? I can't think of anything in particular. Are you freaking out over any of the discontinued scents, dear fellow Witches? Eric Zahn smelled nice on The Boy and I liked Madrid, but I'm just a bit sad that the only scent named after something Spanish is gone than anything else. For those candy loving witchees. Are there any 3 that u love and would like more of? Three American flavours I miss: maple syrup, blueberries, raisin and oatmeal cookies. And, are there any 3 that u just cannot stand and would not like any of? I hate salty liquorice, most cookies, and peanut butter unless it is the all-natural, 99% peanut variety. Do you have an electric stove, and would you like a bowl and tarts to use the residual heat (and for extra safety)? I have one of those stoves in black glass... ceramic, are they called? Something to use the residual heat after cooking that would counteract the smell of food would be nice. What is your favorite classic fairy tale or children's story ? The Little Mermaid. The real thing, not Disney's mess. As a child II had a fascination with fairy tales with sad endings, like The Happy Prince or the Tin Soldier. What of the summer update (Egyptian, Lawn Ornaments, etc.) appeals most to you? I've bought a handful of bottles and the only ones that have worked are Litha and Feast for the greatly revered ones. With all this talk of chocolate, do you prefer milk or dark? Either. Both What's that one thing you keep meaning to get but keep forgetting or passing over? The item on my Amazon wishlist that I have wanted for the longest time is the John Donne. OOOOHHHH!!! I have been meaning to look for a couple of aprons since I moved out of my parent's house a year ago. I'm very messy in the kitchen so I have a full set of "kitchen only sweatshirts". They're becoming depressing and horrible and I'd love to have a few aprons so that my stay-at-home clothes are comfortable, but not so bad looking. I need something that covers the chest, and ideally with pockets. My mother has one like a pinafore that ties with ribbons on the sides, but she didn't let me have it I've included a couple of apron makers on my etsy favorites And I like what I see in this website. The problem with this fashion of cute aprons is that they are clearly 50's-inspired and I don't like the period that much. I like them cute, but not in a "50's kitsch" way.

On the bottle, it is extremely sweet and just a tiny little bit fruity. But on my skin, it turns into cough syrup. A synthetic sweetness covered up in something bitter and slightly dusty. It has nothing to do with other dandelion blends I like. A complete disaster.

My etsy favorites are here. Do you like coconut? Yes for food, not for perfume. The only coconut perfume I like is BPAL's Black Pearl. Puddin' posts ebay sales of older stuff every now and then - what of the current lot are you dying for? ooops... there's nothing now. Among the very rare blends I'm interested in: versions of Snow Queen, and the first 13. Do you tweet? Not yet. What kind of mythology are you interested in? for the literary value, Greek and Scandinavian. Which flavors are you interested to try from the Chocolate Research Facility? I like all types of chocolate but I'm not a big fan of coffe and a flavouring, or very sweet things in which chocolate is an excuse, like Mars bars. Do you wear makeup or nail polish? Need brushes, containers, storage, mani/pedi supplies? What colors and brands do you like? I like nailpolish in light shades of blue and green. I don't like it too dark although I'd like to have a red-black like Chanel's Rouge Noir. As for make up, I always end up wearing the type of pinks that suit an olive skin. Sometimes I wear browns or blues; not greens on my face, though. Clinique is my default brand. Do you like shiney hanging porch decorations like windchimes or those things that spin and swirl in the wind? No. Hair adornments? I don't have a lot of imagination or ability to do my hair. It's long, thick and curly and I need accesories to keep it out of my face when it's loose. Look, This is what I can and can't wear from the first Google result for "hair clips". NOOOOOO: Alice bands, barrettes that consist on a piece of leather and a stick that goes through it, very big barettes, beak clips, "bendies" or "sleepies", bobbles, clips, combs, thin elastics YAY: Barrettes like this type, especially if they're about one inch long (so I can just hold the two locks of hair that fall on my face), claw clips that are not very big (they wouldn't hold the hair at the front), thicker elastics, cloth scrunchies (NOT the ones with stuff attached, like beads), headbands and headwraps (not a big fan, though). Is there any infomercial product you're dying to try even though you know it probably sucks? Nooooooo! What are your favorite websites (besides this one, and the online shops you listed in your questionnaire)? Shakesville, Feministe, Indexed... There was a question somewhere about TV shows. I've changed my mind; I've never watched Buffy, and I'm curious, and I was a fan of Northern Exposure so I'd love to have it, downloaded or bought. We have so many talented witches and they really need to promote themselves more so, if you made something by hand for a previous witchee or have an etsy store or some other outlet for hand made goods, will you post it here with pictures or links? Or, if you want to brag on a previous witch's talent, this is the place for that as well. I love the work I've seen by Baitu and LacyJae. Kristana sent me some gorgeous earrings by her daughter in law . I don't have any handy pictures off my own work just now. If you could make your perfect scent (or at least most desired at the moment!) what would be in it? I would love to have a gentle mix of lavender and rose with the tiniest drop of honey. So would anyone like to receive some original, or very much loved recipes from his/her witch? Yes! List things you DO NOT need any more of: I know I have soap for two years. I can't stop getting more anyway. Is there something that would offend you if you received it in your mail/gift/email)? (as in profanity, a bad words in an email/card/music ... or a card or something with a scantily dressed man/woman pictured on it, crude/immature humor tshirts, etc ...) I don't like offensive humour in general. What do you like to snack on? nuts, cookies, dried fruit, crisps, nachos... What is the color scheme you use most when you decorate? Light green and medium blue. The only BPAL forum skin I ever use is Spring. If you have music or DVD's on your wishlist, do you mind getting a burned copy? How about if it is original packaging but previously used? Or do you only want it new? Music is music Who is your favorite artist? What are some of your favorite pieces of their work? Charles Rennie Mackingtosh, - the city of Glasgow Velázquez - everything, most impressionists, but particularly Monet, - anything with a sunset on it. Vermeer. What is your favorite latin or faux latiny phrase? Phew! I studied Latin in high school, and since my mother tongue is Spanish and I'm good with languages, I still could understand quite a lot. Latin is too mucb part of my conscience to answer this question. How are you doing for BPAL storage? Need any boxes? I like to have relatively small boxes to help me keep things in order; I have one with 16 bottles, another one with 12 bottles, and 7 bottles in need of a box. I have 4 color-coded Altoid tins with imps currently in use (spicy/foody, fresh/herbal, floral, fruity) and two more boxes, one with ritual or magical blends and one with imps-not-in-use. So, in short: I'd love a pretty box that fits 12 to 20 bottles. Is there any place you've visited where you feel like you left your heart there? Scotland, particularly GLASGOW!!!!!! I even donated blood there. So hopefully there's a chunk of me permanently in Scotland. What one item would you just love to have that is made by a Switch Witch? Something crafty I can't make myself. For example, wood carving or knitting. Is your abode a palace covered in fur, a disaster area ,or a neat freaks delight? The kitchen is clean and tidy. Every else is covered in clean laundry waiting to be folded, ironed or stored. Are there any phobias you have that you absolutely, positively, do NOT want anything from your witch referencing? Ehm... I don't think she's going to send me porn, right? Are you a good witch or a bad witch? That's for my witchee to figure out.... What kind of a car do you drive and would you want something you could use in your car? I drive an Opel Corsa that looks older than it is. I'm not interested in personalising it. Do you want to know when you have something coming in the mail, or would you rather it be a complete surprise? I'd like to know, thanks What is your mailbox situation? I don't have one. The postman slides letters under the door if they're thin and rings the bell for us to pick them up if they're too thick to pass through. If we're not in, he leaves them in the office next door or gives us a slip so that we pick the parcel up at the office. Are you interested in Tarot or Tarot art? I have a Wiccan friend who does a reading for me once a year. That's all. It's probably the only form of future telling I'm interested in (I'm very skeptical about horoscopes, for example). What would you think of soap samples/shampoo bar samples? Or other sample sized bath/beauty products, for that matter? I love samples. What I like the omst about all these small crafty online companies is the chance to try hundred of scents and textures. The only problem is that I've noticed that the scent of samples deteriorates faster. What about burnables as in candles, tarts and/or incense? Candles and incense are great. I don't like tarts much - I'm afraid I'll knock down the container and mess everything with the pool of melted wax. Who knits? Do you also spin and dye? What supplies, that you wouldn't buy for yourself, would you just love to have for that activity? Very thick wool. I weave on a small loom. Wool with special effects - metallic shine, etc. I was thinking of selling or giving away fringe skirts like these: http://www.one-of-us.com/BellyDanceClothing.htm as they're easy to make. Do you like coffee? Whole bean or ground? Bold/Medium/Mild roast? I don't normally drink coffee. So you have enough socks and wraps... (shush, VCW!) Are there any other knitted goods you might like? Lap blanket? Fingerless gloves? Arm warmers? Little knitted animals? Silk scarf? Head band? Wrist cuff? Dish clothes? Are you brave enough to make me a top? fingerless gloves would be great for work. Not so much arm warmers. silk scarf????? YAY!!!!! dish clothes would be a shame, with tea and tomato stains, they would look pretty for a couple days at the most. Are you obsessed with honey? If so, is there a particular kind you like best? Spun honey, flavored honeys, certain types of honey....etc. I love honey, but again, isn't it too heavy to post? I hate honey-flavoured candy, though. What are your favorite materials? Or material things? Some people like jewelry, some like woods, some plants... I'm not sure what to answer to this, it is too general. Is there anything you've been wanting to learn that your witch might be able to help you with? time management? I have lots of spiritual questions too but in that sense I feel very alone Posters, yes or no? not really. What are your favorite animals? Or, what animals resonate strongly with you? Tigers, Penguins. Are there any historical figures you are particularly interested in - say, that you'd enjoy reading about, or movies, etc.? Any interesting female character from the last couple of centuries. Poets. What, if anything, are you earwormed with right now? Nothing right now. What scent are you wearing right now, if any? I've tried three or four scents from the last update. I don't like the Alice frimp or Pink Flamingos. I'll probably keep Feast for the Greatly Revered Ones. Anyone reading an amazing book right now? Not right now, sadly. I'm reading every Ruth Rendell book in my mother's collection because I'm in the mood for detective stories. Ruth Rendel is really good, but not "amazing". What socially respsonsible site would you recommend to ALL Witches? Hmmmm.... probably my favourite feminist blog, Shakesville. What is your favorite anime, or if you don't like that what is your favorite animated series? Does Hayao Mizayaki count? Do you like villians that are funny because they are meant to be, or are you like me and love the villian that just can't seem to get his evil schemes to work? Not really. I like my villains interesting, like Iago or the romantic or victorian ones. Tea. How do you feel about it? I love it. would my future witchee like to receive steampunk style jewelry? Probably yes. Does your feline like catnip? No cats. Salt soap bars (soap made with a large quantity of salt, like salt-scrub-in-a-bar)? Sounds good! How would you feel about homemade jelly/jam from home-grown berries? Sounds fantastic but it's probably too heavy to post. Homemade dill pickles? Made from cukes, beans, snap peas, baby zucchini? Same as the jam: probably too heavy! ***6/22*** Based on Prior Carnivale act prototypes...which one are you truly excited about? Not sure. Would it bother you if you are not the first person to receive the same gift? Imagine a Witch who always sends her favourite book, for example. Of course not Pets: What do you have, and do they need/want anything? No pets. Does anyone play video games? What platform(s)? Are there any new or vintage games you would like? I don't play videogames. Twilight fans, would you be interested in any products from this Etsy seller? If so, add the items you like to your Etsy favorites and make sure your wishlist is posted somewhere for your witch. I'm not a twilight fan. Ok, for all you shower people, would you like Bpal scented soap? I'm out of soap stuff right now, but if I can get any anytime soon, would that be something that you'd like? Or how about Bpal scented massage bars or solid scrub bars? Soap: yes, massage bars: not in summer, they'd melt in transit, scrub bars: if they're made with an oil, like sandy massage bars, they'd melt in transit too. Don't send me anything that couldn't stand 100ºF heat. Are you in need of decanting supplies, wand caps, or other scent-related paraphernalia? I'd love glass wand caps, the sort you attach to bottles. I need a bottle cap, wand or not, because one of mine is broken. Pippettes would have me jumping around the house in joy. Pretty boxes that fit 10 to 20 bottles - yay. And a scent locket for ritual purposes (I have The House of Dread Desire for non-ritual scents). Are there any single notes (likely non bpal) that anyone is dying to have/try? I think that blends are more interesting. net flick or the likes gift subscriptions? A month of Netflicks vs a DvD? I don't use Netflix. Adorable Japanese characters? Not really, but I like Japanese fabric designs, both classic kimono ones and modern cute ones. Do you collect dolls or miniatures? No. If you were to make a seasonal mix CD for this summer, what would you name it? That's a secret. Would you like any recycle/upcycle supplies for your crafting? Small electronic components, chips and such. I was going to make punk jewelry with them. Is there a program you might have missed or show you love which is gone from the airwaves which might be found (or burned) for you by a Witch? Not now, I think. Do you play any online games, like World of Warcraft? If so, what server do you play on, what's your character's name, etc.? No gamer. Would anyone like bath bombs or bath melts scented with one of their favorite Bpal scents? I take baths about twice a year, so... no thanks. Would you like homemade cinnamon buns or sticky buns? Yum! but don't send me anything that shouldn't spend a month in transit, just in case. Is there anyone here that likes Hello Kitty or any other Sanrio Characters? Not me. Any non NZ or Aus witchee that I get gets Tim Tams, OK? OK! ***6/19*** For non-US witches: is there anything from the US you'd love that you can't get where you live now? Seeds! It would be great if If you can send me seeds for vegetables that can grow easily in a yard (things that would grow well in big pots; I'm having good results with lettuce, onions, stuff like that). My weather is more or less like California, so I can grow just about anything. Spring: temperatures 15-25ºC (60º-80º F). Occasional rain. Summer: temperatures 25-35ºC, (60-90º), occasionally higher in July. Very dry. Occasional storms. Fall: temperatures 10-25ºC (50-80ºF). The wettest season. It can rain heavily for weeks. Winter: Temps. -5 to 15 (20-60 F). Some rain. Occasional snow. How many potential witchees have an iPod, or download MP3s? I have an mp3 player of a different brand and I like mp3s. Are there any of the BPTP bath oils you adore (particularly ones that you cannot get anymore). What about the room sprays? I haven't tried any of them. I try not to look too much into the BPTP site as postage costs can be high. How would you feel about an ultra-girlie shawl or wrap in summer-weight (lace)? Hhhmmmm..... I wouldn't use it in summer. Summer temepratures here easily reach 35 degrees (100ºF). I might use it in winter, though. "Ultra girlie" sounds good and I always have a problem with how to dress warmly with formal clothes in winter. What would you think of hand-dyed items? Sounds cool! So, I hear you don't like lacy wraps! How do you feel about hand-knit socks? I normally use plain black socks. What kinds of crafts does everyone either enjoy making or enjoy getting? Do you have a certain type of handmade item that you love to collect? Socks, boxes, jewelry, dolls etc? I make jewelry, and I embroider although I haven't done much lately. I could probably embroider a scarf or a belt, something like that. I can also make accesories for ATS oir tribal fusion bellydance if you like wool (not very approppriate for a summer round as it's way too hot to work with wool, though). I can't draw or paint. I'd like anything that you send me although I don't normally like objects that are purely decorative. I like jewels, candle holders, anything that can be given a ritual use, anything that can be used in the kitchen / to eat, cosmetics, boxes to keep BPAL bottles are all great things. I'd love to send or get baked things BUT I wouldn't trust international mail with homemade food. How would you feel about soaps made with emu oil? Squicked out/concerned about animal cruelty, or willing to try them? (The woman I buy them from uses the whole emu. She sells the meat, sells the feathers, and uses the oil to make soap.) I think that if we use animals we better make good use of the whole animal. So, if the emus are farmed, the soap sounds good to me. Even any crafts done with the feathers sound good too.

Wet: a countryside-like smell, like hay and fruit and the sweetish smell of very mature compost. The Boy says I smell like rotten fruit. Later, it improves a bit. I do smell like overripe fruit (apples?). One of the swaps.

I'm not a very good detector of individual notes, so this doesn't smell to me very different from Concentration, at least when wet. I do notice it is milder. I loved the smell of concentration but not its effect; it worked like a coffee overdose. I wanted to try something similar-but-different, and lilirose sent me an imp of Clarity. Today I've used it for the first time. The Boy and I had had an exhausting couple of days, with illness, work, drama: a lot of unpleasantness and also a lot of things not necessarily unpleasant but very draining. In the evening I asked him which of my TAL collection sounded more promising to him. He was undecided between Clarity and Anthelion..... I put some Clarity on an oil burner. It does smell like a softer Concentration! Quite soon, the mood in the room was lighter, and I could finally stop revolving bad thoughts in my head. No small feat, considering how many intense feelings I was trying to process. Quite good.