alterosen

Skin chemistry is a strange thing! This is very nice on me: a creamy berry-ish rose with a background of woods. I didn't realize it had frankincense - I was thinking sandalwood & maybe a hint of cedar (but only a hint or it would be pencil-shavings city ) The slight tangy spiciness that's contributing to the wood feel is probably coming from the honey. Delicious!

Banana Peel in a Graveyard is the only one I've tried that had strong banana (& stayed that way) - I didn't get that much from Shango, myself. It's not what I would call strong banana but Treat #2 kind of gives off a candied banana vibe: (A fine confection for discriminating trick or treaters: a fig meat, coconut, and buttercream bonbon rolled in orange rind, mint leaf, cardamom, clove and ginger, dipped in milk chocolate). I think it's the fig, cream & coconut combo.

Delicious appley goodness! So happy I talked myself into splurging for a bar of this!

On me, once it dries, Fae has a strong oakmoss note. If you like that, you might want to try Perversion, Fearful Pleasure (LE) & Cykranoshian Catnip (LE) For something kinda like Night Gaunt, I was pleasantly surprised by Baobhan Sith's grapefruit & flowers, especially because I've tried before & didn't care for it but now it seems rather nice.

I thought this one would be a total win on me but no such luck It was too green & cloyingly sweet for me.

#516 This is a strong buttery vanilla in the bottle and once on my skin a nice big waft of coffee comes out. It's a caramel latte! (not that there's a noticeable milk note, this is just what it reminds me of)

I wasn't sure if the label said #42 or #62 but since kikithepirate has #42 it must be #62 (it's a full bottle) Wet, it's a bright fruity floral scent that might be champaca (I'm not at all sure, just basing that on one of the past pumpkin blends which is the only time I've encountered it, could be something else entirely). As it dries, this changes into cherry blossom and then sweet, dark cherry fruit comes out to anchor it (ripe black cherries, not fake or almondy). It gets sweeter & more syrupy as time passes, maybe with a little bit of a cola note, too. Pretty tasty, though perhaps a bit too sweet for me. I'll have to dig out my decant of Suck It & compare - though this doesn't have a booze note, I think it might have a similar feel, especially once dry. eta: Not at all similar - Suck It is much brighter & fruitier, this is a way darker cherry eta: After about an hour, it turns into cherry blossom incense, hmm. eta: Feb/11 - Trying it again, I get a little bit of a wine note, too, especially in the dark cherry middle stage.

I don't really care for aquatics too much but I did kinda like this one. Clean, a little salty & quite masculine without too much harshness. For some reason, it smells a bit like berries (okay, maybe berries & a nice cologne) once dry but I seem to be the only one noticing that so it might be due to my skin's tendency lately to sweeten/turn-to-candy random things. Worth testing this one on the DH

Moxie from the Panacea section is a very bright zingy orange (many of the reviews think it also has some ginger in it). Not available as an imp unless you buy a set of all the Panaceas but you may be able to find a decant from someone. Lilith vs the Giant Crab was a forum-only from last year that smelled like creamsicles & sandalwood. Sorry both these recs are hard to get a hold of but it never hurts to put such things on your wishlist!

I really wanted to love this one but, alas, it was not to be. Even after a year of aging, the fir & tobacco are very bitter & make my eyes burn a little. I can sense the rose & clove somewhat but the overall effect on me is ashy rather than intriguing. Mixing with White Rose sweetens it up briefly, but it returns to something unpleasantly harsh on the dry down.

Orange water & thick musk to start, then gets all incensey but not in a way that appeals to me The rose wasn't apparent to my nose but may have contributed to the heaviness of the musk in the beginning.

Autumn! It's a little hard to find because it's a Retail-only Salon blend but I totally get some apples mixed in with the rose & spicy fallen leaves of Autumn.

Sugar Skull, of course! It smells like someone's just started making candy & is melting sugar on the stove (before the caramel stage) with a hint of fruit (maybe pear?) It's a Hallowe'en LE that's been released several times so it appears in the sales/swap thread on occasion. Mr Nancy seems to have a similar base with the addition of lime & La Befana has a bit of violet & berries over the sugar. I find the chocolate scents are quite different from one another & you really have to try them for yourself to see if they work. Most are not intense enough for me (exceptions being Boomslang, Velvet, Tezcatlipoca & some of the 13's). For cake-like scents, you should have a look at this I want to smell like a bakery thread. Cockaigne & Chimera are ones that are mentioned often - I personally like Shub, Saw-Scaled Viper, Gingerbread Poppet, Sugar Cookie & Cake Smash when I'm in a foody mood.

Necrobump! Any more recent recs for bergamot goodness?

You might want to try Viola from Illyria (gentle tea rose, lilac, Calla Lily, and Somalian Rose layered over golden Peruvian amber, Spanish moss, red sandalwood, rosewood, and myrrh, with the lightest touch of Mandarin) There's a lot of notes but I found it to be sweet & pretty with kind of an innocent feeling (& decided it didn't suit me, lol). Pink Snowballs reminded me a bit of Katrina von Tassel so that might be another one to consider if you can do the cream note. FWIW, Seance was very woody on me (so much that I don't tend to think of it as a rose blend) as was Snooty Rose but I tend to amp the woods (though not in Viola, strangely). The Rose was like a lighter version of Rose Red. I was unlucky with Victoria turning soapy, too. Two, Five & Seven was wretched on me (sharp rose in a pet food store ) My favorite for pure tea rose is London with Peacock Queen as second choice being slightly less sweet (if I remember correctly - I traded it away a bit prematurely).

Switch Witch Questions - Valentine's Shotgun Round 2/16 If you were to give up something for 40 days, what would it be and why? - It wouldn't hurt me to lay off the french fries for a while, so my pants fit better 2/14 Are you following the Olympics? What's your favorite sport to watch? Would you be interested in merch? - no thanks, I'm at Olympic central here so I can get whatever I'm interested in 2/13 These are a few of my favourite things: ...? - Kitties, my kids, chocolate, tea, coffee, napping, fragrant flowers, big pile of books 2/12 I love to decoupage/collage boxes and notebooks. If you were my witchee, would you like one? What colors/themes would you want it to have? Find cute pictures--inspire me (and other crafty witches)! - You bet! 2/11 If you could have one "unselfish" wish (but personal) what would it be? - That my sister's cancer continues to stay in remission 2/10 If you had to choose SHOES or PURSES? - Purses but I need shoes more If you could have 5mL of ANY ONE BPAL scent, what would it be? - Monster Bait: Underbed or Sybil Loose tea or bagged tea? Or both? - Both, slight preference to bagged 2/9 Who are your fantasy five? - Colin Firth, Spike, 2/8 Are there any books you particularly want to read that you don't mind being 2nd hand (or 3rd or 4th )? Anything on my WL can be used Do you like gardening,growing vegetables, house plants? Need any small tools, seeds, labels? - no houseplants but I'm always game for seeds & trowels Are there any soundtracks you'd be interested in getting a copy of? - Grosse Point Blank 2/7 Do you have any personal heroes / heroines and why? Are there any languages or countries that you're really interested in? If you could be in any fictional universe, what would it be? (Harry Potter, Firefly, Lord of the Rings, Silent Hill, wtv) 2/6 If you were a student at Hogwarts, what house would you be in? -Hufflepuff or Ravenclaw What animal would your Patronus be? I'm a space junky. Love anything galaxy, space, star, etc related. I'm even getting a milky way tattoo one day. And I am a total Star Trek geek. Anyone else? Sure - I'm quite fond of Star Trek in most of its incarnations Severed fingers? -Um, probably not If you like tea, what are your favorite kinds? Fruity, sweet, chai, plain, black, green, red, white? - Fruity, chai & black (is that plain tea?) 2/5 How do you feel about handmade stuffed animals? - Cool! Are there any accessories you'd really like? (Keychains, little purses, etc.) -A new keychain would be fun What are your favorite animals? - cats, tigers, otters Is there anything you've had to give up that you really miss or want back? Maybe something a witch could help out with? 2/4 Are you opposed to vegan baked goods? Or baked goods in general? - Baked goods are swell What's your favourite flower? -roses, lilies & dahlias For those that have dogs, if I were to knit them a sweater, what colour would you like it to be?- Kitties don't like clothes too much Lip balm: Yay or nay? If yay, what are your favorite kinds (brands, consistency, whatever)? -Yay! I quite like My Lipstuff (so many flavors!) & ones that are a bit tinted How do you feel about home-canned goods, like pickles, jelly, preserves, stuff like that. -Nom! OPI Alice in Wonderland set? - I'd like the blue but I think it's a no-no to mail nail polish to Canada Hair stuff? Clips and things, do you need any? -Sure! 2/3 I custom mix nail polish, a process called 'frankening'. If you were my witch, would you enjoy a custom 'franken', based on whatever colors/theme you chose? - That would be cool Since everyone is spending the same amount of money on this swap, would you be interested in seeing the cost breakdown of each item in your package? -If my witch wants to Do you like keys? - Yup! The older looking the better Do you like guessing who your witch is, or would you prefer to know? Do you mind knowing? -I'd like to know but don't mind trying to guess If it's going to be obvious who your witch is, would you rather she played the ninja and sent one big box at the end, or smaller packages along the way? - Either is good What color are your eyes? - Greenish blue or blue grey depending on the light & what I'm wearing If you had to choose a color for a nightie to sleep in what color would it be? -Purple or blue 2/2 Would you like or accept an energetically-charged item or gift? Something that had power poured into it? If so, do you have a particular purpose that you'd prefer? (Love, protection, money, etc.) - That would be cool: energy, peace, protection, abundance would all be great Do you have any significant upcoming events in your life you'd like something for? -Nope Ooooh! BPAL's beloved alicia_stardust is having a contest! If you're my Witchee, would you like a chance to win these earrings? -You bet! How are we feeling about burlesque? -It's not something I'd take part in but I can appreciate it Is there anything you're lusting after in the Villainess update? -Raspberry Swirl & I'm sad there's no Miss Edith smooch or whipped 1/26-2/1 What is everyone's take on Valentine's Day? - Chocolate is always welcome My husband was well trained in his youth & always produces gifts & cards appropriate to the occasion Do you like traditional Valentine's Day colors (red, pink, white, more?) ? - Red or dusty rose A Favorite love poem? What's everyone's favorite semi-obscure (or underappreciated!) animal? - coatis What is your favorite sign that spring is coming? - snowdrops & other early bulbs Do you like hand-knit Things? - Oh, yes! For those of you with pets, would you like pet things? Toys, treats, etc? -Sure - catnip toys are always a hit What's your favorite Love Story? Would anyone like receiving naughty/sexy things? Who on the thread likes attending Ren Faires, SciFi/Comic Cons & the like? And do you dress up for them? -I've never been to anything like that but could get into it if I went with the right friends Do you need any accessories for your phone, computer, mp3 player, etc.? - not really What are your feelings on gently used CDs/DVDs? - Fabulous First five songs on the "Top 25 Most Played" list on iPod. - Joe Strummer - Redemption Day, Bauhaus -Ziggy Stardust, Rancid - Timebomb, Soundgarden - Outshined, Hard Rock Miners - Black & Blue Would you like a mix cd from your witch? -Oh yes! Are you interested in receiving gifts representative of Witch's country or culture? - You bet! Do you like candy? What kinds? -Oh yes, see Switch Witch Help for specifics Do you play WoW? - Nope Would you like one of those Plush Microbes? - Sure: they do amuse me What are your feelings on Mardi Gras? - not a local tradition but I do like the colours green & purple together Would you like homemade sewn stuff? Any fabrics to avoid? -You bet: anything is fine Do you need any kitchen-related gadgetry? - I'd love an egg timer in the hour-glass style - I can't seem to find them anymore Do you like incense and/or scented candles, and are you able to burn them in your home? If so, what kinds of scents do you like? - Japanese incense preferred & spicy fruity candles - See Switch Witch Help for specifics Boxes? For Bpal (bottles and/or imps) or otherwise. - I thought I was all set & then tried to fit something else in the box I've been using for my rose scents & couldn't, so I guess I could use another Would you use a natural sea sponge? - Sure Are you interested in bacon chocolate? - Yes! I'm most curious Coffee, hot chocolate, or tea? - All Would you like some of my favorite recipes? -Yes! Would you like posters, pictures, art? -Sure! But not super large Would you like soaps? Especially from Paintbox? And ESPECIALLY the Valentines Special Edition Soaps?? - I wuv soap & am rather curious about Tartchef's beet soap & Black Heart & This Charming Man New question--I'm calling this "could never happen in a million years": Your Witch is perusing the wares at a local yard sale. S/he looks down and sees [insert impossibly rare item that you've always wanted but could never afford] with a $5-10 sticker on it. Sheepishly s/he takes it to the guy behind the folding table. "Do you know what this is?" s/he inquires. The gentleman states that it belonged to his mother/sister/grandmother/Great Aunt Beulah and he thinks it's for, like, hair or something. With a trembling hand, s/hes pays the man and heads home with the inconceivable riches. So, what is this unobtainable miracle your Witch found? -A Daum or Galle vase, something in Royal Winton's Sweet Pea pattern, an Arthur Rackham print or book Do you like salted caramels? Oh, yeah! Imagine that someone hands you their wallet and sends you into a really good bakery. They have everything, from breads to brownies, cookies to croissants, anything you could imagine, and you're allowed to pick out five things for yourself. What do you pick? - Rosemary olive oil bread, Apple, caramel & thyme foccacia, chocolate florentines, raspberry mousse torte & a cranberry pear galette (I'm pretending my two favorite bakeries are one) It gets asked every round but sockdreams? - Of course! Do you like alcoholic beverages? If so, what is your preference (beer, wine, liquor...)? - Pale ale, red wine, cider, Grand Marnier & Frangelico would just about cover it Are you into steampunk? - Sure

******9/17***** Are you into 80s movies (like i am ) if so, which are your favorites and who are your favorite characters? Do you like Villainess soaps? What are your favorite scents? Birth Rite, Krakatoa, Ginger Snapped, Kill Switch Do you mind artificial colors in your food? Not really Who wants hair pretties?(headbands, barrettes, pony-o's, scrunchies, bobby pins, hair clips, etc) Sure! If you were my witchee, would you like any of the scents/sizes that are available on clearance? 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. you bet! How do you feel about clothing/accessories made from animals? Anti-fur, leather, shells, etc.? Does even faux wig you out? Fur would squick me out a little but the others would be fine How do you deal with stress? What's your favorite way to unwind? Reading, listening to music, puttering in the garden, having a big nap 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? ******9/16***** Who is musically inclined? What instruments (voice counts) do you play? Would you enjoy sheet music? Favorite musicals? Which of the seven deadly sins is most likely to be your undoing? Sloth or Gluttony Anyone want a nickname and embroidered headband from PandaBite? No thanks 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 don't mind Yankee Candle Would a "gift" donation to one of the organizations/causes you support be a great gift, or a lame gift? great! ******9/15***** Does anyone have any symbols they consider to be personally significant or talismanic? Are there any Gods, Goddess, or other mythological figures of whom you're particularly fond? Super villain or vigilante? Which would you like to be? Which would you like to receive? What mythical or fantastic race of creatures (dragons, unicorns, griffins, elves, dwarves, faeries, etc.) do you most identify with, and why? How do you feel about Dia de los Muertos? Are you interested in sugar skulls? Catrina (or other) skeleton figurines? Do you have a favorite poem or poet? ******9/14***** For the crafty people out there: would you prefer something crafted or crafting supplies? Either! Slight preference to something crafted but not everyone is so inclined Can you use pill boxes, a hard ID case, coin purse, etc? I don't really need any but I do like these sort of things Any songs you are desperately into at the moment ? What's autumn like in your neck of the woods? What do you love and/or hate about it? It's usually nice in September & gets steadily cooler & crisper - we get a nice show of leaves unless the rains start early What's your favorite product(s) at Trader Joe's? I've never had anything from them - there aren't any here If you're caught in front of the tv, what are you watching? kid's shows or History Channel Any Amy Brown art fans? Somewhat - I seem to be drawn to the ones where the clothes & hair are streaming off to one side like Cloak of Stars or Passage To Autumn How do you feel about Halloween music? (mix CDs, what have you)I'd like some! Who else is reeeeeally looking forward to Tim Burton's Alice In Wonderland? Kinda. I've seen too many versions that were overly wacky & made me cringe 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 used to love going to Vancouver Kid's Books when I lived right in Vancouver - they have a ton of cool books with mini staff reviews & awesome stuffed animals (I will forever covet the enormous gryphon puppet) Lolcats....yeah or nay? Yeah! What is your favorite creepy folk story or legend? The Wendigo freaked me out, too! 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?Both would be very cool! 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? Something mysterious in cool dark watery colours ******9/12-13***** What's something you're really looking forward to in the semi-near future? What fictional character do you most identify with and why? Could you use a 'travel' imp case? How many should it hold? I have several but I do like them, 5-6 imps is enough 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 enjoy getting a few packages but none of them need to be huge! What is your idea of the perfect evening at home? Kids early to bed, big fat book & munchies or my DH & I watching & discussing a show together Are you on any social networks (MySpace, Twitter, LJ, Facebook, Bebo,etc)? Not really my thing What kind of socks? thin black cotton, or thicker cotton grey/blue heather-type blend How often do you update your wishlist?Fairly often - after getting new stuff or if there's an update May I help you fill out your costuming wardrobe (assuming you costume)? I'd love some pointy elf ear tips (& adhesive), horns or a fanciful leather mask So, who has a store or ETSY shop or knows of a shop of a fellow BPALer that everybody needs to check out? Who are your favorite artists/illustrators/art periods? What's your stance on cranberries? fond of them Do you mind receiving used (in good condition, of course) CDs or DVDs? Used is good! 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? I like Colin Firth, Alan Rickman & Johnny Depp so Darcy, Snape & Captain Jack Sparrow material would be fun 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? usually cereal, yogurt or a sandwich, sometimes popcorn or chips Do you have a favorite bpal bottle art? I love Harvest Moon '05 & its pumpkin with spindly legs - actually most years the Weenies & Yukes are pretty appealing, Rose Moon '07 with its silver phoenix made of roses is also lovely Are there any decants from the Halloweenies, Literary Vampires, Gris Grimly, or Hellboy that you would be interested in receiving? I've ordered an embarrassing amount of decants ******9/11***** 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 licorice, toffees, caramel, tootsie rolls, fruit (esp. black currant or raspberry) or floral (rose, violet) flavoured hard candy. Not a huge fan of sours, marshmallows or lemon/lime. Do you have a Blu-Ray player? Nope Do you have any objections to receiving downloads?Is your internet connection fast enough for you to download large files like music easily?Are there any songs, albums, movies, or TV shows that you can't find/haven't been released that you want? I wouldn't object but things would have to be Mac compatible (& fairly idiot proof) %20******9/10***** Are you interested in things like home remedies for ailments, cleaning solutions, etc.?Sure! If you do any kind of craft, could you use supplies? What kind: knitting needles, yarn, amazing fabric, pinking shears, cool thimbles or pincushions, jewelery making supplies, beads, etc.? I'd love a fun pincushion & beads or findings are always welcome What's your favorite pain-relief remedy or ritual? Ibuprofen or tylenol & a nap Do sounds make you happy? What ambient noises make you smile? I love the sound of rain (especially to fall asleep to), my kids & cats snoring, waves, birds, bees humming - wind actually makes me a bit nervous since I've always lived in places with large trees around & bits do fall off When you receive your SW packages... do you like receiving things that are individually wrapped inside? or unwrapped? or both? Doesn't matter too much, I'll whichever my witch feels like doing 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. can't really think of anything What BPAL scent have you never tried but always wanted to? What scent have you tried and LOVED, and haven't been able to get more of and why? I'd love to try Pumpkin King & Bat of Wealth & have more than my decant of MB:Closet I know we're all scent sensitive here. What are your favorite non-perfume smells? Day in the life stuff? Fallen leaves, freshly ground coffee, baking bread (actually all baking sends a nice waft), baby head (right now there's a hint of vanilla from the yogurt that he smeared in at lunch ), clean sheets, wet pavement, roses & herbs Coffee drinkers, what types of beans do you like?Kona, Sumatra, Kenya..etc. How do you like them roasted?Do you like flavors, such as hazelnut, vanilla, etc. in your coffee? whatever's in Starbucks' French Roast suits me fine; no flavored coffees please Who has a birthday falling in this round? not I 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?Oh yes! Praline, toffee, sea salt, coffee, cocoa nibs, ginger, nuts & seeds, chili & other spices (even curry & I especially like cinnamon & cardamom), lavender, fruit (except raisins), orange peel Are there any childhood shows/movies/games/books/etc. that still hold a really special place in your heart?Muppets & 1970's Sesame Street, Mr Dressup, Friendly Giant, the Munsters ******9/9***** Superpower? If I send you whole spices or coffee beans, would you be able to grind them or would you prefer them pre-ground for your convenience? I have a coffee grinder but not one for spices 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 like accessories! (Whether I need them is another matter) I take my coffee with milk & my black tea with milk & sugar, some herb/fruit teas require honey Restaurants you'd like a gift certificate to on Restaurant.com? I'm not in the US In our perfect world it is chocolate and...? more chocolate! Some coffee would also be acceptable How do you scent your home: tarts, reed diffusers, BPAL, candles? candles, homemade room sprays & occasionally incense What's your favorite dessert treat? Ice cream? Cake? Pie?Fudge brownie cake with pie flavored ice cream on top? Creme brulee Do you believe we control our destiny, or does our destiny control us? A bit of both What one thing that is missing from your life would you like to have above all else? Order winning over chaos in my home ******9/8***** What was your favouritest job ever, and why? I quite like my present job (helping people find material on Art & History topics at a Public Library, some data entry & fact checking) but enjoyed it more when I was in another department with staff who were more social & outgoing Which three albums would you take to your apocalypse bolt hole and how would you power the generator? What GC scent have you been putting off getting since it'll "always be there"?Snake Oil, Morocco, Perversion or Fae -but I made sure I have a backup of Dorian & Shub %20******9/7*****%20 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 like kitchen stuff & could use some new pot holders actually - mine are either burnt or irretrievably grubby What's your favorite candy to stock up on at Halloween? mini Mars bars & O'Henrys What are your phobias? heights, flying, driving What is your favourite flower (or plant)? I'm liking autumny things at the moment: asters, mums, sunflowers, dark coloured dahlias Duct tape purses and wallets and things are pretty darned cool. Who else thinks so? They're kinda interesting 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? Take my sister out for a fabulous lunch/dinner & day of spoiling for her 50th birthday which is this October Who likes coloring books? Sure! Are you an avid reader? What's your favorite book/series?Sure am! A lot of the series I follow, I no longer buy because there's too many of them (Terry Pratchett} or I no longer love them but still want to find out what happens (Kim Harrison, Charlaine Harris). I can't seem to go wrong with Patricia Briggs, though Do you have a Good Reads profile?If so, make with the link! If you don't have one, go make one! It's right here but I just started so there's only a few books so far ******9/6***** 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? Take-out usually occurs on payday; fortunately my kids like mac & cheese & ramen with veggies If you could decorate/redecorate any 1 room in your home, what would it be and how would you decorate it? I'd love to give my house the fab retro 50's kitchen it never had Any rabid sports fans out there? What teams do you root for? Canucks (though I should resent them - my DH is the rabid fan, I've joked in the past about being a hockey widow) What's your favorite animal? (You can have more than one.) cats, otters, tigers 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!)? Elder gods! 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!) I suspect mankind won't be around Do you believe in magic (or magick, if you prefer)? What does it mean to you? Yes, I think the natural world is pretty amazing & mysterious & I believe in the interconnectedness of things. I feel it's kind of arrogant to think we know all that can be known about the universe. If you found the puzzle box from Hellraiser, what would you do with it? ( and would you be able to resist playing with it? ) I probably could resist because I'm naturally cautious (though I would want to have a good look at it) ******9/5***** Do you like pinup art/images? Yes, but don't need any What are your plans for Halloween? Have you made any yet? Do you have any traditions? I take my eldest Trick or Treating (I may or may not dress up myself) while my DH stays home & gives out candy. He carves the pumpkin that always goes outside our door. I often set up a small ancestor/remembrance shrine with photos of loved ones & a candle Who are your BPAL forum buddies? You know, people I could conspire with to Witch you! my former witches have all been excellent What is your favorite color? tied between blue & purple Any other steampunk fans/lovers? I like! 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! I'd get an assortment of fabulous sandwiches, foccacia & desserts from Terra Breads in Vancouver & treat my friends under the huge trees at Jericho Beach enjoying the incredible view of the mountains ******9/4***** Any Gamers here? What kind? Board games? RPG? Miniature? MMORPG? Fraid not Is anyone playing this round of SW into ABJ? (asian ball jointed dolls) Not for me What is your favorite Halloween icon? black cats & pumpkins 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? A dried rose & sprig of rosemary, a couple of favorite books, some perfume, favorite jewellery bits, some recipes, various photos, figurines of a a warrior, a knight & a monkey (for my DH & kids) some plush or ceramic black kitties with everything wrapped in a velvet shawl Are you involved in any long-term, ambitious project? something like decorating your house or saving for a trip to the other end of the world, for example. Never-ending home fix-ups & yard work Favorite kind or take out kinda burger? Whats your burger preference? Veggie,meat or ???? I do get beef cravings sometimes: Monty's mushroom burger from White Spot or A&W's Mozzaburger; otherwise I'm a chicken burger gal What's your favorite childhood toy? my sister had an awesome replica of the Disney castle from the 60's with little plastic figures that I adored (I never wanted to be a princess though) If you have a pet, what kind of gifts would be good for them? major catnip addicts, also like foam balls Do you Tweet? What is your Twitter name? nope Are you on Ravelry? What is your Ravelry name? nope ******9/3***** What are everyone's favorite Halloween-y/Autumn-y/spooky movies? Are there any you don't own but would like to? I'd love Nightmare Before Christmas, Scary Godmother & Rocky Horror Are roasted pumpkin seeds and home made chex mix the best fall snack foods, or what? as long as they're the savory versions What's your favorite pie, my dear SW's? I like making apple & pumpkin - both spiced with cinnamon & cardamom & a touch of vanilla What kinda socks ar you wearing tonight? Too warm right now but last week I had on some thick cotton blend house socks Do you like socks? Blankets? Wrist warmers? Arm warmers? Headband? Shawl? Or what kind of knitted thing would you love the most? anything but I doubt a headband would get much use 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've always loved to read ghost stories (true accounts & Poe would be welcome, too!) Who here is LOVING Warehouse 13? I haven't seen but it sounds like it's my kind of thing Nother question! Coffee or Tea? Love both! Interested in locally produced products? Food, skincare or both?Olive oil? Lavender oils or soaps? Love regional products of all sorts, don't need olive oil thanks to last switch witch (quimerula!) & I do like lavender (particularly combined with orange) 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? yes to all What is your favourite historical period? Hard to choose: Medieval, Regency, Victorian, Ancient Greece, Rome, Egypt & China, 1920's What other hot beverages everyone likes for fall? pumpkin spice latte, baby! Did you order anything from the most recent update? Bottles of Lamb's Wool, Pomona & Falling Leaf Moon, a gazillion decants & a Falling Leaf Moon tee Vampires or Werewolves? Or some other monster? slight edge to vampires What sort of odd or regional foods do you crave? I sometimes crave german foods from my childhood like Rotkohl or Schnitzel

I really like this one, too! It doesn't get nearly as much love as it deserves, IMO. Smoky leaves & slightly fruity roses... My other Autumn faves are Samhain (especially '05), Devil's Night, Harvest Moon '05, Pumpkin Queen, Shub-Niggurath & Pumpkin #1 (05/06 apples & mulling spices). I love spicy apples so I'm really looking forward to trying Lamb's Wool & Pomona.

I love this one! It's Sugar Skull with berries & a little violet. Yummy! I couldn't understand how I missed it when it came out but I see there's no berries in the description & I was probably afraid of the lilies. Thankfully, I don't notice them or the chimney dust. This is a new favorite!

***7/15*** Who knows about wizard rock and wants more? Who doesn't know but wants to? Sure, why not? What's the wallpaper/screensaver on your computer? Dulac's Little Mermaid at home & pics of my kids at work Do you like Sugar Ray (the band not the boxer)? Not really a fan ***7/14*** Would you be interested in receiving some pasties from your witch? Hehe! I don't think i'd wear them though How did you get your forum name? One of my passions is growing antique roses. Alte Rosen means old roses in German which is my background & default second language. I came up with it to use on a gardening forum & then never joined. I thought it was applicable because I came to BPAL looking for a signature rose scent (though I very quickly found other goodies ) Anything from the trunk show? Protos of Dorian & MB:Underbed would rock Anything from the newest ebay listing? Maybe Hunger Moon "If I could be I would be ____________ for a day." Fill in the blank. Hmm - still thinking about this one ***7/13*** 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?Right now I'm really into shortbread for some reason & I love reverse chocolate chip cookies (white chocolate chips in dark chocolate dough). I'd totally be into candied citrus peel & mixes Have you found any new loves since the beginning of the round that you wished you'd known to include on your questionnaire? Can't think of anything... ***7/12*** 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? Not really. I usually figure Life gets in the way. I've always been lucky enough to have witchees who squeed with enthusiasm even if they didn't post much in the thread. Having said that, I'm a bit unnerved to have a completely ninja witch this round. I haven't heard a peep but I'm trying to wait & see what happens before I get anxious. Do you try to figure out who your witch is? Do you want your witch to give you clues? I usually have no idea, clues would be fun Who has a Kindle? If you do, would you like a Kindle gift card, Kindle accessories, etc. as a gift? Whadda you need? I'm not keen on replacing books with electronic formats & feel like I spend enough time looking at screens already but can see the benefits for people while traveling etc. (Wow, that sounded curmudgeonly ) What about other electronics (Blackberries, iPhone, etc.)? Do you need any accessories, etc. for those? I don't even have a cell phone atm ***7/8*** I've recently been listening to Rasputina's 'O Perilous World' album and am particularly enamored by '1816: the Year Without a Summer'. So I'd like to know if my witchee likes Rasputina, and would like any music by them? Sure! ***7/6*** What new scents from the update are calling your name? I ordered Berry Moon & a few must-have new Alice imps - everything else of interest will go on the wishlist I have easy access to Asian candies, tropical fruits(mangosteen, mango, durian, jackfruit) flavored biscuits/chips/snacks, dried tropical fruits, Japanese/korean/taiwanese cosmetics brands and music/CDs. Is there anything you will like from Singapore or Asia in general? Anything! ***7/3-5*** Do you play any musical instruments? Which ones? If not, are there any you'd like to learn? Dismal piano lessons when young turned me off learning music & I don't think I have much aptitude for it either Are you partial to any kind of comedy? I'm pretty easily amused What did you do for the 4th and/or the holiday weekend? Went for High Tea as a friend's birthday celebration - nom! Partials, samples, sniffies? Yes, Please! Have you read anything by China Mieville, Neil Gaiman or Charles de Lint? If so, what? Like/dislike...?? I'm a big fan of Gaiman & de Lint & have read nearly everything by them; I'd be into reading some Mieville Other than books/cds/dvds are there any "things" that you collect or symbols which you have an affinity for? Lots - I'm pretty sure I covered this in my questionnaire but if not: leaves, crescent moon, ourobouros, World Tree, black cats, pumpkins Do you like musicals? What have you seen? What do you want to see? Any you'd like to own? I kind of like them but haven't ever sought them out - I'd like to see Spamalot, the Producers & Repo the Genetic Opera What are your thoughts on J.R.R. Tolkien? I'm fond but not a rabid fan-girl If you answered that you would like recipes, are there any national or ethnic cuisines you prefer or don't prefer? I like most things (though I'm sick of sushi since it's my DH's favorite food) What's your favorite summer activity? Barbequeing? Also splashing around in water & eating, bit of gardening Would you like a recipe booklet (homemade) for homemade smoothies and shakes? Always love recipes! What's your favorite vacation spot? I love riding the ferry & visiting Vancouver Island or my sister's place on the coast 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 many vintage things (50's & earlier) - childhood fun stuffs would be from Sesame Street, Banana Splits, Muppets or original Star Trek ***7/2*** What styles of jewelry do you like? Bold and funky? Delicate and dainty? Short necklaces, long ones, chokers? Bracelets or anklets? I mostly wear stuff that is scaled a bit large because I'm tall & have large hands etc. & dainty would look silly not to mention I'd be afraid of breaking it. However I often do like my jewellery to have fine details or filigree so I don't think bold & funky is accurate either. Dunno what category would fit. I like necklaces of all lengths & bracelets but don't wear anklets. Does my witchee like hats, a floppy summer sun hat or something more stylish? Would you like a hand knit cap or hat? I have lots of summer hats but am always game for more What kind of shopper are you? Do you make a budget? Planner, or compulsive? Do you like to buy what's new, special offers, only the usual? Somewhat a planner (compulsive list maker) but still impulsive & not good at budgeting ***7/1*** Non-melting candies....what are your favorites? Most fruity ones (though not partial to lemon & lime) & unusuals like violet, rose & milk What are you happiest about (besides SW)? What makes you feel good this summer? Any summer? Smelling the flowers & hanging around outside. My little fella has just started walking & it's amusing watching him wobble around the yard. Do you like coffee and/or wine? Yes! What are your thought on World Market? Never been but it sounds like my kind of place 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 enjoy other people's dogs but wouldn't want one of my own. A witch wants to cheer you up. What are we cheering you up from? In other words, what are the most pressing problems you're facing right now? I'm pretty stressed about my eldest starting kindergarten in September & all the childcare/work logistics are compounded by my procrastinating tendencies. I'm having trouble with organizing my life now that I'm back at work even though it's only part-time. On the plus side, I've lost all my extra baby weight cause I don't have time to snack! Something (not Fly Lady) to motivate me to de-clutter & clean would be much appreciated Who out there is equally challenged and would appreciate icons/banners as witchy gifts? Totally! Lip balm? Sure! Love to try Haint or Bunnybutt Apothecary's tinted rose sugar one What's that one thing you keep meaning to get but keep forgetting or passing over? I badly need new shoes & sandals ***6/30*** Have you any desire to read Hannibal? Already read it & don't need to own it If your witch goes to Convergence (or is bestest friends with someone, same thing), is there anything you'd love to have? Being able to try anything would be lovely Are you freaking out over any of the discontinued scents, dear fellow Witches? I wouldn't have minded a bit of Severin for the DH but not freaking out For those candy loving witchees. Are there any 3 that u love and would like more of? Anything Lindt, British toffee with chocolate, Violet pastilles And, are there any 3 that u just cannot stand and would not like any of? Not too fond of Skittles, Jolly Ranchers & chocolate-covered raisins Do you have an electric stove, and would you like a bowl and tarts to use the residual heat (and for extra safety)? Good idea! What is your favorite classic fairy tale or children's story ? the Snow Queen, Seven Ravens, Three Billy Goats Gruff, Thomasina, Pish Posh Said Heironymous Bosch, Where the Wild Things Are (okay, I'll stop now ) What of the summer update (Egyptian, Lawn Ornaments, etc.) appeals most to you? I have Lawn Ornament decants on the way, I'd love to try Smoky Moon & the Egyptians With all this talk of chocolate, do you prefer milk or dark? Milk or dark with stuff inside, also like good white chocolate ***6/29*** Do you like coconut? Yes! Puddin' posts ebay sales of older stuff every now and then - what of the current lot are you dying for? Hellion, Humbug & Mi-Go but sniffies would suffice! Do you tweet? Nope What kind of mythology are you interested in? All kinds! I was pretty into Greek, Egyptian & Norse as a kid but would like to learn more about Indian, African, North American, South American, Asian, Polynesian, Eastern European - you name it! ***6/28*** Which flavors are you interested to try from the Chocolate Research Facility? I didn't have the patience to explore the site but I'd love to try anything with tea, cardamom or rose Do you wear makeup or nail polish? Need brushes, containers, storage, mani/pedi supplies? What colors and brands do you like? I only wear polish on my toes (purples & deep reds - like to get a nice iridescent blue or green). I've been meaning to get some of the paler foundation samples from PinkQuartz Minerals on etsy & some synthetic brushes Do you like shiney hanging porch decorations like windchimes or those things that spin and swirl in the wind? Sure! Hair adornments? I usually have my hair in a ponytail but would love to try other things Is there any infomercial product you're dying to try even though you know it probably sucks? Actually there was something but since I can't remember what it couldn't have been that important What are your favorite websites (besides this one, and the online shops you listed in your questionnaire)? cakewreaks, bookshelves of doom, go fug yourself, smartbitches trashybooks, 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 have received some awesome things but don't have pics, alas. If you could make your perfect scent (or at least most desired at the moment!) what would be in it? I like a bit of fruitiness when it's warm, so right now I'm loving Le Befana (sugar, berries & with hint of violet) & my CTV Snake Oil with strawberry - maybe something with tea & berries or plum? And I'm always game for spices especially with fruit such as mulled apple cider So would anyone like to receive some original, or very much loved recipes from his/her witch? Definitely! List things you DO NOT need any more of: stuffed animals (exceptions made for mythological beasties) ***6/27*** 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 doubt it - not easily shocked or offended except by meanspiritedness which I'm not likely to encounter here What do you like to snack on? depends what I'm craving - chips (plain, salt & vinegar, rosemary, sweet potato), popcorn, veggies & ranch dip, hummous, artichoke dip, chocolate, caramels/toffee, licorice, Haribo gummis, cookies, fruit, ice cream What is the color scheme you use most when you decorate? greens & blues mostly with a bit of red & purple 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? New is not necessary Who is your favorite artist? What are some of your favorite pieces of their work? Can't go wrong with Arthur Rackham or the Pre-Raphaelites; also I've been searching for an Amy Brown image of a plump faery baking that I once saw but now can't find Are you a candles person, incense person, or just a BPTP spritzer for room scents? mostly candles & homemade spritzer (I can't use BPTP ones), a little incense goes a long way with me though I do like it on occasion What is your favorite latin or faux latiny phrase? Carpe Diem ***6/26*** How are you doing for BPAL storage? Need any boxes? I have some but always am game for more Is there any place you've visited where you feel like you left your heart there? I'd love to visit Italy & France again What one item would you just love to have that is made by a Switch Witch? so many awesome things Is your abode a palace covered in fur, a disaster area, or a neat freaks delight? Disaster area covered in cat hair Are there any phobias you have that you absolutely, positively, do NOT want anything from your witch referencing? My phobias aren't easily triggered Are you a good witch or a bad witch? I try to use my powers for good, but... What kind of a car do you drive and would you want something you could use in your car? Rear view mirror charms, steering wheel covers (a new thinkg for the knitters ), car blessing medicine bags We have a silver Mitsubishi Outlander & charms would be nice Do you want to know when you have something coming in the mail, or would you rather it be a complete surprise? Both are good! What is your mailbox situation? My mail carrier will leave largish things on the porch if I'm not home or I can pick them up at the PO if a signature is required ***6/25*** Are you interested in Tarot or Tarot art? Yes! What would you think of soap samples/shampoo bar samples? (I believe the latter can be used as soap if you are not shampoo bar inclined). Or other sample sized bath/beauty products, for that matter? I wuv samples! I would really love to try some shaving bars (soap with clay in them) & shampoo bars What about burnables as in candles, tarts and/or incense? candles & incense preferred over tarts 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? Not a knitter Do you like coffee? Whole bean or ground? Bold/Medium/Mild roast? Oh yes! Dark roast, either whole or ground 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 cloths? Yes, please! ***6/24*** Are you obsessed with honey? If so, is there a particular kind you like best? Spun honey, flavored honeys, certain types of honey....etc. Love honey, the more unusual the better What are your favorite materials? Or material things? Some people like jewelry, some like woods, some plants... Wood, stone, glass though I craft mostly with paper Is there anything you've been wanting to learn that your witch might be able to help you with? Posters, yes or no? Not much wall space What are your favorite animals? Or, what animals resonate strongly with you? cats, tigers, black panthers, otters, crows, ravens Are there any historical figures you are particularly interested in - say, that you'd enjoy reading about, or movies, etc.? What, if anything, are you earwormed with right now? the Backyardigans - Hold on Tight (serves me right for buying the kiddo a cd) What scent are you wearing right now, if any? Litha 06 ***6/23*** Anyone reading an amazing book right now? Julie & Julia was amusing What socially responsible site would you recommend to ALL Witches? kiva.org or heifer international What is your favorite anime, or if you don't like that what is your favorite animated series? Do you like villains that are funny because they are meant to be, or are you like me and love the villain that just can't seem to get his evil schemes to work? Not a big anime fan but perhaps I could be converted Tea. How do you feel about it? Adore! would my future witchee like to receive steampunk style jewelry? Sure! I'd especially like a bracelet or scent locket Does your feline like catnip?And how! They even notice if I drink tea with a tiny amount of catnip in it & have destroyed every catmint plant I've tried to grow (& that's only related to catnip!) Salt soap bars (soap made with a large quantity of salt, like salt-scrub-in-a-bar)? Ooo I like! How would you feel about homemade jelly/jam from home-grown berries? Homemade dill pickles? Made from cukes, beans, snap peas, baby zucchini? Love jam & pickles! ***6/22*** Based on Prior Carnivale act prototypes...which one are you truly excited about? I'm not sure - I'm happy to wait & see 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. Not at all Pets: What do you have, and do they need/want anything? Cats in triplicate, they'd love one of those feather wand toys Does anyone play video games? What platform(s)? Are there any new or vintage games you would like? We have a PS2 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. not an enormous fan but those scents sound appealing Are you in need of decanting supplies, wand caps, or other scent-related paraphernalia? Yes please! Not wand caps or pipettes, but I can use some vials & reducers ***6/20-21*** Are there any single notes (likely non bpal) that anyone is dying to have/try? I'm good net flick or the likes gift subscriptions? A month of Netflicks vs a DvD? Sure My fiance sent me an early dvd rip of Coraline that he was given up and I was wondering if anyone would like a copy of it? Gods, yes! Do you collect dolls or miniatures? What kind? Do you like to get new clothes or items for them? No really though I have couple of Lisa Snellings Ratbags (the Lovecraft & Halloween ones) If you were to make a seasonal mix CD for this summer, what would you name it? Hot Damn! Would you like any recycle/upcycle supplies for your crafting? Sure! 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? see Amazon wishlist 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.? Don't have the time Would anyone like bath bombs or bath melts scented with one of their favorite Bpal scents? YES Would you like homemade cinnamon buns or sticky buns? Yum Is there anyone here that likes Hello Kitty or any other Sanrio Characters? Chococat or something Goth or Punk would be amusing Any non NZ or Aus witchee that I get gets Tim Tams, OK? I'm okay for Tim Tams. I can get them here & find them a bit too sweet anyhow ***6/19*** For non-US witches: is there anything from the US you'd love that you can't get where you live now? Milky Ways! How many potential witchees have an iPod, or download MP3s? I have an iPod ***6/18*** 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 that many bath oils. I liked Luxuria & am looking forward to trying my Warrior Queen decants. No BPTP room sprays for me, please - there's something in them that makes me headachey How would you feel about an ultra-girlie shawl or wrap in summer-weight (lace)? Those are gorgeous! I would love such a thing What would you think of hand-dyed items? Cool! So, I hear you don't like lacy wraps! How do you feel about hand-knit socks? would love ***6/17*** What kinds of crafts does everyone either enjoy making or enjoy getting? I make cards, beaded earrings & bath products and I enjoy getting anything Do you have a certain type of handmade item that you love to collect? Socks, boxes, jewelry, dolls etc? jewellery, boxes, mugs Clearly, vegans are not into soaps with honey or milk, etc. But, if you're NOT a vegan how would you feel about soaps made with emu oil? Squicked out/concerned about animal cruelty, or willing to try them? I'd try it!

I really like Dorian for sleeping. There's just a touch of lavender & the vanilla is lightened by the citrus & tea. I'm also not adverse to a bit of musk I found the lavender in TKO & Lilith Victoria really strong & astringent & the vanilla aspect too heavy & cloying. TKO actually makes me a bit queasy (but, strangely enough, does work, so I use it if I'm desperate). You might want to just try something you find comforting, whether it has lavender in it or not, sometimes that'll put you in the right frame of mind for relaxing or sleeping.

I'm always amazed at how subjective people's responses to the rose scents are - even if someone recommends many of the ones I like, invariably they'll also include one that I really don't. Just goes to show you have to try them on yourself! So for what it's worth, I find London to be a very natural smelling tea rose but it may be a strong candidate for soapdom because of its simplicity. Have you tried any of the rose & resin blends? I adore Parlement of Foules (LE). It's sweet rose & raspberries on me & probably my favorite rose blend. Rose Cross is another nice one; very warm & resiny. There's also Tabula Smagdarina & the Blasphemare Reliquary from Carnival Diabolique. The Grindhouse's Marguerite might be worth trying, too, if geranium isn't an evil note on you. This year's Lupercalia also had many scents with roses in them, especially Eustephanos, Symmahkia & Pothon Meter. Happy hunting!

***5/12*** What's on your dresser? A truly enormous pile of clothes & a wee corner with a jewellery holders, boxes & makeup Is there anything you would love to have burned to DVD? Older things, for instance? Muppets! Something with John Cusak would also be fun - I just realized I don't have any of his movies What BPAL do you really want but always forget to buy? Shub-Niggurath ***5/10*** Who here is really into Twilight? it's ok - I've only read the first book & liked it well enough but haven't read any more or seen the film what's your favorite time wasting game (computer, phone, or rl)? Diablo was my one true love as far as games go but I can easily read blogs for hours what's the best birthday gift you've ever received, and why? One year I had an awesome birthday where it was sunny & I spent the day at my sister's on the coast. My Mum gave me a lovely oriental rug & my brother had made me a big stained glass piece, both of which I treasure. My DH is usually more into Xmas presents but the year our first son was born right before my b'day & Mother's Day, he got me a nice garnet necklace & a fantastic jewellery box from a local craftsman made of mutiple woods with a heart motif which was awesome. ***5/7*** Is there anything that would shock or offend you if you received it in your mail (or email)? I doubt it! What field of study or corner of trivia gets you all excited and causes you to ramble on at length until you realize everyone else is just staring? I can get really excited about good food I've cooked or eaten & then rave about it. I love my roses & other heirloom plants & fortunately have some like-minded friends who don't mind gardening monologues. I can also go on at great length about books, folklore & mythology. I also know a ridiculous amount about tattoos & tattooing for someone who isn't inked. If you were to design your perfect BPAL, what would it smell like? It doesn't have to exist yet. cinnamon, ginger, orange peel, plum, musk, blackberry & tea with hints of rose, patchouli, sandalwood, lemon vanilla, clove & cardamom. Are there any flavors of coffee/mochas that you like? Or teas? I think I've covered this pretty extensively in my Q & non-BPAL wishlist And what shade/brand of lipstick? MAC Desire & Odyssey are my faves; plum, mauve & burgundy are my shades Do you have any preferences on lip glosses or balms? Shimmery, flavored, etc? Shimmery & with some colour would be nice Do you use Burt's Bees products? Or would you like a scent REALLY heavy on honey? I like honey! If you were to get some hand-painted art, what is something you would like? Flowers, animals, leaves/trees, mythologcal creatures ***5/6*** What e-tailer are you most curious about but haven't tried yet? Cocoa Pink, Gudonya, MoonaLisa, Blooddrops What have you read recently that was so good you want to enable people with it? I really enjoyed Lament by Maggie Stiefvater What TV shows have you wanted to watch, don't own or have on hand, and would you like to get into? What format(s) do you prefer? I'd love to see True Blood, Dexter & Pushing Daisies, dvd preferred. ***5/2*** If I happened to put together a gift basket for you, what is the one thing that absolutely should be included (excluding chocolate, since I think that's a given.) Something smelly, something pretty, something tasty - these are all pleasing! Movies sci-fi, fantasy, period drama with fabulous costumes, kid's stuff like Monsters Inc., Toy Story, Jumanji Favorite Sweets chocolate, licorice, caramels & blackcurrant or floral flavoured (like roses or violets) candy would be really cool since it's kind of hard to find What kind of art styles do you love? Any artists in particular? the Pre-Raphaelites, Art Nouveau, some faery stuff (Rackham, Froud etc.), Ursula Vernon Do you cook? Would you like some 'local' recipes? I do & I totally would! Suncatchers, hanging crystals, mobiles, dangly things? Yay or Nay? Sure! So, who wants knitting? What especially would you like? Measurements of applicable body parts? Love it! I'm a scarf/shawl wanton & have size 10 feet Who wants handspun/hand-dyed yarn? I don't knit but love looking at pretty yarn on etsy Who wants hand-dipped candles? Oh, yes! Who wants handmade soap? Scented or unscented? Always have room for more preferably scented

I'm not crazy about this one. The herbs, roots & spices combine to form something like a light fruity red musk with a background of brown sugar. A bit of chocolate comes out thinly on the drydown. I was so hoping for major chocolate-covered ginger but instead it's brown sugar & jam with a dusting of cocoa powder & bitter ginseng.

I love the Lab's blackberry note & this one does not disappoint! I get a faint whiff of cherry on first applying this & think that may be the orange blossom asserting itself briefly but then the scent changes to a deep rich blackberry with boozy overtones. No cat pee or other weirdness, but also no detectable mint or sandalwood. I don't mind - it's lovely & sultry. My husband even commented on how much he liked it - big bottle for sure!