Sunday, March 31, 2013
Happy Easter to my favorite peeps!
Hey there! I just wanted to wish you all a very happy Easter! I'm just trying to suppress the fact that I must return to the coal mines tomorrow ;( Anyway, whatever it is you're doing, I hope you all have a beautiful day! ❤
Friday, March 29, 2013
A Heartfelt Thank You!
I'd like to reiterate that I'm so glad I found this community and each one of you lovely ladies. All of you mean a lot to me, and I'm so glad we know each other through perfume! I'm so lucky to know such a wonderful group of kind, intelligent, beautiful (inside and out), and supportive ladies like you.
Nadja sent me this beautiful care package that arrived in my mailbox the other day. Since we share a love for tea, she included an array of gorgeous teas that smell absolutely heavenly (I can't wait to try them). She also sent me a crazy amount of perfume and a really sweet note.
Nadja, I do not have words to thank you enough. You spoiled me rotten, and I hope to do the same for you as soon as possible. Thank you for everything!
Nadja sent me this beautiful care package that arrived in my mailbox the other day. Since we share a love for tea, she included an array of gorgeous teas that smell absolutely heavenly (I can't wait to try them). She also sent me a crazy amount of perfume and a really sweet note.
Nadja, I do not have words to thank you enough. You spoiled me rotten, and I hope to do the same for you as soon as possible. Thank you for everything!
Tuesday, March 26, 2013
Quick Update!
Hey guys! I just wanted to quickly apologize for not being on top of everything. I usually feel good about commenting on your posts and updating my own blog, but not lately. I greatly apologize, and especially to Nadja. I know you emailed me, thank you, you're amazing, and I'm sorry for not getting back with you yet.
I wrote the majority of my anti stress post today, though ironically, I endured a situation so stressful that I just want to distract myself until the morning. It wasn't a big deal, just a rotten old man saying horrible things to me and my bf; but it brought me down pretty bad.
So I'll probably delete this post, but I just wanted to say I'm sorry for being absent and I can't wait to catch up on all your blogs!
Lots of Internet hugs!
I wrote the majority of my anti stress post today, though ironically, I endured a situation so stressful that I just want to distract myself until the morning. It wasn't a big deal, just a rotten old man saying horrible things to me and my bf; but it brought me down pretty bad.
So I'll probably delete this post, but I just wanted to say I'm sorry for being absent and I can't wait to catch up on all your blogs!
Lots of Internet hugs!
Sunday, March 24, 2013
Twyla ~ The Golden Lilies; Soma
Hey guys! Sorry I haven't been as active around here as I normally am. I've been feeling really overwhelmed about life and jobs and all that crap. But this coming week is my Spring Break, so I hope to have lots of new reviews for you soon! I'm also thinking about doing a post about stress relief, because goodness knows I've tried everything under the sun!
As you probably know, the ever so awesome Dee sent me a lot of imps not long ago. Among them were some Twyla imps. I've been very excited to try the Twyla perfumes, as I've been enjoying reading all of your thoughts on them! Today I am reviewing two of the Twyla imps: The Golden Lilies and Soma. Also, I could have sworn I took product photos, but I can't find them anywhere! I found a couple pictures for the perfumes that I hope will suffice.
The Golden Lilies
Image Source- digme.org
This scent starts off strong on the Lily-of-the-Valley, tiare and apricot, with a beautiful and golden, earthy base of resinous amber to anchor the sweet, almost candy-like tonka bean. Davana is said to have the unique property of smelling differently on every person's skin. I find it to be rather woodsy, with a hint of herbal-vanilla. The smooth, deep sandalwood and unusual, almost musky floral of the fire tree - which smells a bit like a musky lilac with a hint of apricot, round out this unique and lovely blend.
Cold sniff- Vanilla and a crisp, green aroma.
Initial Application- Something went medicinal on me, like straight up cough medicine. Maybe it's the Davana, and my skin is just unlucky with that note.
Drydown- The drydown is a lot more pleasurable for me. The apricot stands out very much on my skin, with a bit of an herbal note as well. It's kind of a "bitter" perfume, but in a pleasant way. I didn't have hope for this perfume, but I'm glad I waited it out.
Soma
Image Source- Tumblr
This is the second in a series that was intentionally created to fall into the category of both aromatherapy AND perfume. Created to ease anxiety and stress, this oil smells like lovely lemon-flower cotton-candy (due to the sweetness of the vanilla and lemony scent of melissa, not because i used synthetics), white lotus-flowers and sunshine.
With several calming essentials including melissa (a powerful relaxant, some studies have shown it to help ease clinical anxiety and help calm children with ADD - although current research will show more solid results one way or another in time), lotus, which has a calming and some say euphoric effect; sandalwood, which is commonly used in anti-depressant and anti-anxiety blends for it's soothing aroma; rosewood, ylang ylang and vanilla - all three of which are soothing and comforting to the senses.
This is another one that might help some of you sleep (like Migraineur) - i find it extremely calming. Most effective as an inhalant or in a room-diffuser/oil burner for several minutes if used for anxiety - but absolutely LOVELY as a perfume!
I was most excited to try Soma because I am willing to try anything that will help with my anxiety!
Cold sniff- A very clean and beautiful lemon note (melissa!).
Initial application- The beautiful lemon note stays put, and I also get the rosewood. I don't know if I'm experiencing a placebo effect, but I actually feel almost euphoric upon inhaling this perfume. Perhaps it's just that it smells so good ;)
Drydown- I don't really notice a difference between initial application and drydown.
I wish Soma came in shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and bajillion gallon containers of perfume. Maybe then I could contain my stress :)
I enjoyed trying these Twyla imps, and I look forward to trying more! I hope you're all having a great weekend!
As you probably know, the ever so awesome Dee sent me a lot of imps not long ago. Among them were some Twyla imps. I've been very excited to try the Twyla perfumes, as I've been enjoying reading all of your thoughts on them! Today I am reviewing two of the Twyla imps: The Golden Lilies and Soma. Also, I could have sworn I took product photos, but I can't find them anywhere! I found a couple pictures for the perfumes that I hope will suffice.
The Golden Lilies
Image Source- digme.org
This scent starts off strong on the Lily-of-the-Valley, tiare and apricot, with a beautiful and golden, earthy base of resinous amber to anchor the sweet, almost candy-like tonka bean. Davana is said to have the unique property of smelling differently on every person's skin. I find it to be rather woodsy, with a hint of herbal-vanilla. The smooth, deep sandalwood and unusual, almost musky floral of the fire tree - which smells a bit like a musky lilac with a hint of apricot, round out this unique and lovely blend.
Cold sniff- Vanilla and a crisp, green aroma.
Initial Application- Something went medicinal on me, like straight up cough medicine. Maybe it's the Davana, and my skin is just unlucky with that note.
Drydown- The drydown is a lot more pleasurable for me. The apricot stands out very much on my skin, with a bit of an herbal note as well. It's kind of a "bitter" perfume, but in a pleasant way. I didn't have hope for this perfume, but I'm glad I waited it out.
Soma
Image Source- Tumblr
This is the second in a series that was intentionally created to fall into the category of both aromatherapy AND perfume. Created to ease anxiety and stress, this oil smells like lovely lemon-flower cotton-candy (due to the sweetness of the vanilla and lemony scent of melissa, not because i used synthetics), white lotus-flowers and sunshine.
With several calming essentials including melissa (a powerful relaxant, some studies have shown it to help ease clinical anxiety and help calm children with ADD - although current research will show more solid results one way or another in time), lotus, which has a calming and some say euphoric effect; sandalwood, which is commonly used in anti-depressant and anti-anxiety blends for it's soothing aroma; rosewood, ylang ylang and vanilla - all three of which are soothing and comforting to the senses.
This is another one that might help some of you sleep (like Migraineur) - i find it extremely calming. Most effective as an inhalant or in a room-diffuser/oil burner for several minutes if used for anxiety - but absolutely LOVELY as a perfume!
I was most excited to try Soma because I am willing to try anything that will help with my anxiety!
Cold sniff- A very clean and beautiful lemon note (melissa!).
Initial application- The beautiful lemon note stays put, and I also get the rosewood. I don't know if I'm experiencing a placebo effect, but I actually feel almost euphoric upon inhaling this perfume. Perhaps it's just that it smells so good ;)
Drydown- I don't really notice a difference between initial application and drydown.
I wish Soma came in shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and bajillion gallon containers of perfume. Maybe then I could contain my stress :)
I enjoyed trying these Twyla imps, and I look forward to trying more! I hope you're all having a great weekend!
Disclaimer: The items mentioned were sent to me for free by my lovely fellow blogger, Dee. My opinions are my own.
Thursday, March 21, 2013
The Hamsters' First Birthday
I have 5 hamsters, and three of them were born a year ago from Tuesday (March 19th). We decided we would take them to the park to celebrate, with the assumption that they'd enjoy running through the grass. We brought some toys for them, too; and just let them wander around for awhile. I wanted to share some of the pictures we took that day, so here they are!
Have a lovely day! :)
Saturday, March 16, 2013
OHWTO Haul :)
The weekend has finally arrived, and so has my One Hand Washes The Other order! Woohoo! I haven't been able to shell out much extra money lately, but that's okay. It just makes me much more appreciative when I'm able to make even a small order like this one.
I ordered two full size perfumes- Cascadia (solid scent) and Ideas Are Bulletproof (perfume oil).
Please Note: Italicized scent descriptions are from OHWTO.
Cascadia
Cascadia:
A scent for a country that never was. At least, not yet. Dense evergreen forests, endless waterfalls, pine boughs, woodland paths littered with dried leaves, ambergris washed ashore the rocky coastline, driftwood, midday showers, oakmoss, sandalwood and ylang ylang.
I absolutely had to order Cascadia after reading the scent description. I thought it was such a neat idea, somewhat similar to Dudleyville (not in the notes, but the concept). I wanted to get it in a perfume oil, but it wasn't available at the time I made my purchase; so I got it in a solid scent! I'm not complaining, as I love the affordability and convenience of OHWTO solid scents. Also, since the weather is warming up a bit, I feel like solid scents are the perfect medium for perfume because they really hug your skin and give you just the right amount of silage.
Cold Sniff: An incredible combination of summer and fall- like a beautiful beach that's surrounded by an enchanted forest with a whisper of falling leaves.
Wet on Skin: Aquatic and earthy, which I assume to be the waterfall, evergreen, and oakmoss notes. Absolutely beautiful.
Drydown: An incredibly magical blend of an aquatic, almost beachy, fragrance amped up with sandalwood and earthy notes (such as evergreen and oakmoss).
Final Thoughts: Cascadia is an utterly genius perfume. It really is like a magical wonderland just waiting to be discovered. I love how it's a strong aquatic scent that's taken to an earthy, woodland realm. None of my words could ever do it justice. I'm so happy with this scent!
Ideas Are Bulletproof
Ideas Are Bulletproof:
Larkhill facility, in flames. Scarlett carson roses. The wood-lined walls of secret hideaways, furnished with a myriad of beautiful-but-illegal artifacts. Leather-wrapped dagger handles. Bergamot-laced tea and incense from a ChurchThe energy of an uprising against an unthinkable injustice, and an ever-present plastic face mask- beneath that mask, there is more than flesh. Ideas do not breathe, Ideas do not feel pain. You cannot kill an Idea, you cannot touch it or hold it. Ideas are bulletproof.
Notes include: Frankincense*, sandalwood, carnation, red rose, atlas cedar, bergamot, leather, ambergris, civet, and oak.
Ideas Are Bulletproof was created as an anniversary perfume for the shop. It was inspired by the film V for Vendetta, which is an outstanding movie (and is also the reason I named my cat V!). I initially named my cat Vendetta, but I have always called him V for short.
Cold Sniff: Bergamot, bergamot, bergamot!
Wet on Skin: It initially begins with the citrusy aroma of bergamot, but immediately morphs into an array of other notes such as rose, cedar, and leather.
Drydown: Ideas Are Bulletproof is strongly floral at this stage. It's a whirlwind of carnation and rose with a heavy breath of oak to even things out. It's a very romantic scent.
Final Thoughts: I didn't think I'd enjoy this perfume right off the bat, but it dried down to a very elegant, pretty, and romantic perfume. For some reason, it reminds me of a tea party!
Disclaimer: All items mentioned were purchased by me. I am not affiliated with or compensated by any of the companies mentioned. All opinions are my own and honest. Thanks for reading!
I ordered two full size perfumes- Cascadia (solid scent) and Ideas Are Bulletproof (perfume oil).
Please Note: Italicized scent descriptions are from OHWTO.
Cascadia
Cascadia:
A scent for a country that never was. At least, not yet. Dense evergreen forests, endless waterfalls, pine boughs, woodland paths littered with dried leaves, ambergris washed ashore the rocky coastline, driftwood, midday showers, oakmoss, sandalwood and ylang ylang.
I absolutely had to order Cascadia after reading the scent description. I thought it was such a neat idea, somewhat similar to Dudleyville (not in the notes, but the concept). I wanted to get it in a perfume oil, but it wasn't available at the time I made my purchase; so I got it in a solid scent! I'm not complaining, as I love the affordability and convenience of OHWTO solid scents. Also, since the weather is warming up a bit, I feel like solid scents are the perfect medium for perfume because they really hug your skin and give you just the right amount of silage.
Cold Sniff: An incredible combination of summer and fall- like a beautiful beach that's surrounded by an enchanted forest with a whisper of falling leaves.
Wet on Skin: Aquatic and earthy, which I assume to be the waterfall, evergreen, and oakmoss notes. Absolutely beautiful.
Drydown: An incredibly magical blend of an aquatic, almost beachy, fragrance amped up with sandalwood and earthy notes (such as evergreen and oakmoss).
Final Thoughts: Cascadia is an utterly genius perfume. It really is like a magical wonderland just waiting to be discovered. I love how it's a strong aquatic scent that's taken to an earthy, woodland realm. None of my words could ever do it justice. I'm so happy with this scent!
Ideas Are Bulletproof
Ideas Are Bulletproof:
Larkhill facility, in flames. Scarlett carson roses. The wood-lined walls of secret hideaways, furnished with a myriad of beautiful-but-illegal artifacts. Leather-wrapped dagger handles. Bergamot-laced tea and incense from a ChurchThe energy of an uprising against an unthinkable injustice, and an ever-present plastic face mask- beneath that mask, there is more than flesh. Ideas do not breathe, Ideas do not feel pain. You cannot kill an Idea, you cannot touch it or hold it. Ideas are bulletproof.
Notes include: Frankincense*, sandalwood, carnation, red rose, atlas cedar, bergamot, leather, ambergris, civet, and oak.
Ideas Are Bulletproof was created as an anniversary perfume for the shop. It was inspired by the film V for Vendetta, which is an outstanding movie (and is also the reason I named my cat V!). I initially named my cat Vendetta, but I have always called him V for short.
Cold Sniff: Bergamot, bergamot, bergamot!
Wet on Skin: It initially begins with the citrusy aroma of bergamot, but immediately morphs into an array of other notes such as rose, cedar, and leather.
Drydown: Ideas Are Bulletproof is strongly floral at this stage. It's a whirlwind of carnation and rose with a heavy breath of oak to even things out. It's a very romantic scent.
Final Thoughts: I didn't think I'd enjoy this perfume right off the bat, but it dried down to a very elegant, pretty, and romantic perfume. For some reason, it reminds me of a tea party!
Disclaimer: All items mentioned were purchased by me. I am not affiliated with or compensated by any of the companies mentioned. All opinions are my own and honest. Thanks for reading!
Quick Scent of the Day
Hello there and happy Saturday!
Last year, I received a free imp of Spring Tonic 2 with my Valentine purchase from Haus of Gloi. I loved it so much that I devoured the entire imp (which is rare for me!) and ordered a full size.
Today I decided to wear Spring Tonic 2. It's the embodiment of all the beautiful weather we've been having lately, and really is the perfect green/spring perfume.
Image Source: Haus of Gloi
Scent Description from Haus of Gloi:
Fresh cucumber, parsley and dandelion greens.
Each stage of this perfume can be described as fresh and green. It's a scent I truly cannot get enough of. All of the notes coexist beautifully to create a magical and tranquil spring fragrance. I am so glad I was able to try this scent with my order, because I doubt I'd order this based on my usual tastes in perfume.
Disclaimer: The perfume mentioned was purchased by me. I am not affiliated with or compensated by any of the companies mentioned. My opinions are my own and honest. Thanks for reading!
Last year, I received a free imp of Spring Tonic 2 with my Valentine purchase from Haus of Gloi. I loved it so much that I devoured the entire imp (which is rare for me!) and ordered a full size.
Today I decided to wear Spring Tonic 2. It's the embodiment of all the beautiful weather we've been having lately, and really is the perfect green/spring perfume.
Image Source: Haus of Gloi
Scent Description from Haus of Gloi:
Fresh cucumber, parsley and dandelion greens.
Each stage of this perfume can be described as fresh and green. It's a scent I truly cannot get enough of. All of the notes coexist beautifully to create a magical and tranquil spring fragrance. I am so glad I was able to try this scent with my order, because I doubt I'd order this based on my usual tastes in perfume.
Disclaimer: The perfume mentioned was purchased by me. I am not affiliated with or compensated by any of the companies mentioned. My opinions are my own and honest. Thanks for reading!
Wednesday, March 13, 2013
My Pretty Zombie ~ LE Easter Collection
I've been absolutely neglecting makeup lately, which makes me a little sad! I love makeup, especially indie eyeshadows. I feel like the colors are so much more beautiful and versatile than their main stream counterparts. Additionally, they're so much more affordable. Who can beat that?
On another note, it seems as though my city has succumbed to Spring overnight. The trees are blooming and the weather is perfect. We don't really get a Spring season in the desert, but right now is as close to Spring as we will ever get; so I'm rolling with it. That being said, I'm in the mood for Spring related things- pastels and fresh, green scents!
Last year, I purchased the Limited Edition Easter collection from the indie makeup company, My Pretty Zombie. I never swatched them on my blog, so I thought I'd swatch them now... Only a year late! ;) All swatches are done over Fyrinnae Pixie Epoxy, as I feel it makes loose shadows show their full potential (especially glitters!). The swatches were photographed in direct sunlight.
Now I have some Spring cleaning to do, so take care you guys!
Disclaimer: All items mentioned were purchased by me. I'm not paid by or affiliated with the company mentioned. My opinions are always my own and honest. Thanks for reading!
On another note, it seems as though my city has succumbed to Spring overnight. The trees are blooming and the weather is perfect. We don't really get a Spring season in the desert, but right now is as close to Spring as we will ever get; so I'm rolling with it. That being said, I'm in the mood for Spring related things- pastels and fresh, green scents!
Last year, I purchased the Limited Edition Easter collection from the indie makeup company, My Pretty Zombie. I never swatched them on my blog, so I thought I'd swatch them now... Only a year late! ;) All swatches are done over Fyrinnae Pixie Epoxy, as I feel it makes loose shadows show their full potential (especially glitters!). The swatches were photographed in direct sunlight.
Now I have some Spring cleaning to do, so take care you guys!
Disclaimer: All items mentioned were purchased by me. I'm not paid by or affiliated with the company mentioned. My opinions are always my own and honest. Thanks for reading!
Sunday, March 10, 2013
Nevermore Body Company ~ Madame
Hullo and happy Sunday! I've been wanting to try Nevermore Body Company ever since I read a review about them around Christmastime. I went to their etsy site (though now they have their own website and realized they had a lot of neat products with a solid theme. However, Nevermore is one of those companies I just haven't gotten around to trying yet. Luckily, Dee sent me two imps because she's infinitely awesome; so now I'm here to share my thoughts on Madame. You can find Dee's review of Madame here!
Madame scent description:
Madame’s golden days of Cabaret brings back the warm and sophisticated, yet subtle blend of apple and oak, with a spice mahogany bouquet, soothing hints of vanilla, cinnamon and dark wood, ripe tones of sweet figs and infused with a blend of tobacco, black tea and fruit spices.
Cold sniff: Sweet, fruity, and just the kind of autumnal touch I love!
Initial Application/Wet on Skin: This stage is rather frustrating to me, because I have no idea what I'm smelling. When I think I smell something, that scent will completely morph into something else. I've had this happen with quite a few perfumes in the past. My best description at this stage is a spicy, fruity scent with mahogany peeking through.
Drydown: I have no idea what's going on, but it's like my skin ate this perfume. I can detect a faint hint of something cinamonny, but that's about it.
Final Thoughts: This perfume had so much potential, but it just didn't want to work for me. I will probably try this again after I shower to see if it behaves a bit better. For now, there's nothing much else to say. :(
I hope you all are enjoying your weekend! Thank you so much for reading!
Madame scent description:
Madame’s golden days of Cabaret brings back the warm and sophisticated, yet subtle blend of apple and oak, with a spice mahogany bouquet, soothing hints of vanilla, cinnamon and dark wood, ripe tones of sweet figs and infused with a blend of tobacco, black tea and fruit spices.
Cold sniff: Sweet, fruity, and just the kind of autumnal touch I love!
Initial Application/Wet on Skin: This stage is rather frustrating to me, because I have no idea what I'm smelling. When I think I smell something, that scent will completely morph into something else. I've had this happen with quite a few perfumes in the past. My best description at this stage is a spicy, fruity scent with mahogany peeking through.
Drydown: I have no idea what's going on, but it's like my skin ate this perfume. I can detect a faint hint of something cinamonny, but that's about it.
Final Thoughts: This perfume had so much potential, but it just didn't want to work for me. I will probably try this again after I shower to see if it behaves a bit better. For now, there's nothing much else to say. :(
I hope you all are enjoying your weekend! Thank you so much for reading!
Friday, March 8, 2013
A Dirty Murder of Crows
Recently, Dee was so incredibly kind to send me some imps in the mail, and among them were two from BPAL. She sent me Dirty and A Murder of Crows. I was so excited to have the opportunity to test more BPAL scents, because I haven't been able to purchase anything from them yet. So, once again, you guys are amazing and deserve all the Internet hugs in the world! ❤
Italicized scent descriptions are from BPAL.
Dirty
A wonderful antidote to an all-nighter oozing with drunken, addled perversion and debauchery. A fresh, crisp white linen scent: perfectly clean, perfectly breezy.
Cold sniff: So fresh and pretty, and something slightly floral.
Initial Application/Wet on Skin: I'm getting that mysterious floral note once again. I'm not quite sure what it is. I read a review from bpal.org that said they detected plumeria on initial application, and I'd say that's spot on. My mom and I loved the Plumeria line from Bath & Body Works when I was in high school, so the plumeria in this blend is a pleasant and welcome surprise for me.
Drydown: The drydown for me is 100% fresh, clean laundry. It's so delightful and incredibly realistic.
Final Thoughts: I would definitely recommend this to anyone that is into "fresh" scents. Dirty is also a perfect everyday scent for anyone who doesn't want to smell perfumey. I asked my boyfriend what he thought it smelled like, and he got the floral note in it too. Though it is a simple scent, the possibilities for it are endless. I can see it working for practically any occasion (expect going out, as you'd probably want more of an exotic option... unless you want to have men or women wondering what laundry detergent you use, haha).
A Murder of Crows
Sleek iris and verbena, grey amber, benzoin, davana, and glossy herbs.
Cold sniff: I was stumped when I tried to decipher this scent. I know I've smelled it before, but I didn't know what it was exactly. My boyfriend ran into the same dilemma. If I had to guess, I'd say it's the iris/verbena notes.
Initial Application/Wet on skin: For the first minute, what I believe to be the iris and verbena are present. However, it immediately transforms into a woody and resinous aroma (the benzoin and davana).
Drydown: The most prominent note for me is the benzoin. At least, that is what I believe I am smelling. It is very woody at this stage, and since benzoin is derived from the bark of numerous trees, I can only make an assumption that it's the benzoin ;) It's also very resiny, which I think is the grey amber making its debut.
Final Thoughts: I'm a huge fan of Halloween scents, so this perfume already had an advantage before I even sniffed it. But it's so much more than I expected. It's incredibly beautiful and unlike any perfume I've ever tried. If BPAL ever brought this back, I'd buy a full size in a heartbeat. It's absolutely gorgeous.
Now, to enjoy this lovely rainy Friday! I hope you all have a wonderful weekend!
Italicized scent descriptions are from BPAL.
Dirty
A wonderful antidote to an all-nighter oozing with drunken, addled perversion and debauchery. A fresh, crisp white linen scent: perfectly clean, perfectly breezy.
Cold sniff: So fresh and pretty, and something slightly floral.
Initial Application/Wet on Skin: I'm getting that mysterious floral note once again. I'm not quite sure what it is. I read a review from bpal.org that said they detected plumeria on initial application, and I'd say that's spot on. My mom and I loved the Plumeria line from Bath & Body Works when I was in high school, so the plumeria in this blend is a pleasant and welcome surprise for me.
Drydown: The drydown for me is 100% fresh, clean laundry. It's so delightful and incredibly realistic.
Final Thoughts: I would definitely recommend this to anyone that is into "fresh" scents. Dirty is also a perfect everyday scent for anyone who doesn't want to smell perfumey. I asked my boyfriend what he thought it smelled like, and he got the floral note in it too. Though it is a simple scent, the possibilities for it are endless. I can see it working for practically any occasion (expect going out, as you'd probably want more of an exotic option... unless you want to have men or women wondering what laundry detergent you use, haha).
A Murder of Crows
Sleek iris and verbena, grey amber, benzoin, davana, and glossy herbs.
Cold sniff: I was stumped when I tried to decipher this scent. I know I've smelled it before, but I didn't know what it was exactly. My boyfriend ran into the same dilemma. If I had to guess, I'd say it's the iris/verbena notes.
Initial Application/Wet on skin: For the first minute, what I believe to be the iris and verbena are present. However, it immediately transforms into a woody and resinous aroma (the benzoin and davana).
Drydown: The most prominent note for me is the benzoin. At least, that is what I believe I am smelling. It is very woody at this stage, and since benzoin is derived from the bark of numerous trees, I can only make an assumption that it's the benzoin ;) It's also very resiny, which I think is the grey amber making its debut.
Final Thoughts: I'm a huge fan of Halloween scents, so this perfume already had an advantage before I even sniffed it. But it's so much more than I expected. It's incredibly beautiful and unlike any perfume I've ever tried. If BPAL ever brought this back, I'd buy a full size in a heartbeat. It's absolutely gorgeous.
Now, to enjoy this lovely rainy Friday! I hope you all have a wonderful weekend!
Wednesday, March 6, 2013
11 Month Anniversay and still in the library!
I started this blog for a couple reasons. Reason one: I couldn't find ANY product photos of the CB- I Hate Perfume travel sizes. So I wanted to add my own product photos to help those that were interested in such things but had no frame of reference as to what they'd be getting for their money. I made that first post exactly 11 months ago, and I'm so glad I did!
Reason two: I thought it would be a positive distraction for me and a fun way to spend my free time. If you've ever suffered from depression or anxiety, you know that free time can be your worst enemy. Keeping busy is really important, especially when you stay busy with positive things that keep you happy. I never, ever expected to have any readers or make any friends out of this. I'm so happy I was wrong. I cannot emphasize enough how wonderful each and every one of you are.
So today, I thought it would be fun to redo my first perfume review on CB: I Hate Perfume- In The Library . . . starting with a brand new product photo!
Scent Description from CB I Hate Perfume:
In the Library is a warm blend of English Novel*, Russian & Moroccan Leather Bindings, Worn Cloth and a hint of Wood Polish
*The main note in this scent was copied from one of my favorite novels originally published in 1927. I happened to find a signed first edition in pristine condition many years ago in London. I was more than a little excited because there were only ever a hundred of these in the first place. It had a marvelous warm woody slightly sweet smell and I set about immediately to bottle it.
Cold Sniff: Dusty pages of ancient library books.
Initial Application/Wet on skin: Freshly polished wood adds dimension to the beautiful "dust" note. It's very beautiful and incredibly realistic.
Drydown: The leather notes become prominent at this stage in the perfume. It's definitely not an animalistic leather, more of a soft leather that you'd certainly find in the bindings of an old, forgotten book. The dustiness is still there, which is one of my favorite aspects to this perfume. I understand what the scent description means about worn cloth with the hint of wood polish. It sounds so weird, but it's an incredibly comforting scent that does wonders for the perfume's entirety.
Final Thoughts: In The Library is a very realistic and comforting perfume. It's not like Solstice Scents' Library at all. It's a lighter scent that focuses more on the book notes than anything else. I so wish I could wear In The Library on a more frequent basis, but it's WAY out of my price range in the full size version. I only have the 2ml travel size (which is pictured above), so I save it for special occasions.
I hope you are all having a nice week. Thank you so much for reading.
Reason two: I thought it would be a positive distraction for me and a fun way to spend my free time. If you've ever suffered from depression or anxiety, you know that free time can be your worst enemy. Keeping busy is really important, especially when you stay busy with positive things that keep you happy. I never, ever expected to have any readers or make any friends out of this. I'm so happy I was wrong. I cannot emphasize enough how wonderful each and every one of you are.
So today, I thought it would be fun to redo my first perfume review on CB: I Hate Perfume- In The Library . . . starting with a brand new product photo!
Scent Description from CB I Hate Perfume:
In the Library is a warm blend of English Novel*, Russian & Moroccan Leather Bindings, Worn Cloth and a hint of Wood Polish
*The main note in this scent was copied from one of my favorite novels originally published in 1927. I happened to find a signed first edition in pristine condition many years ago in London. I was more than a little excited because there were only ever a hundred of these in the first place. It had a marvelous warm woody slightly sweet smell and I set about immediately to bottle it.
Cold Sniff: Dusty pages of ancient library books.
Initial Application/Wet on skin: Freshly polished wood adds dimension to the beautiful "dust" note. It's very beautiful and incredibly realistic.
Drydown: The leather notes become prominent at this stage in the perfume. It's definitely not an animalistic leather, more of a soft leather that you'd certainly find in the bindings of an old, forgotten book. The dustiness is still there, which is one of my favorite aspects to this perfume. I understand what the scent description means about worn cloth with the hint of wood polish. It sounds so weird, but it's an incredibly comforting scent that does wonders for the perfume's entirety.
Final Thoughts: In The Library is a very realistic and comforting perfume. It's not like Solstice Scents' Library at all. It's a lighter scent that focuses more on the book notes than anything else. I so wish I could wear In The Library on a more frequent basis, but it's WAY out of my price range in the full size version. I only have the 2ml travel size (which is pictured above), so I save it for special occasions.
I hope you are all having a nice week. Thank you so much for reading.
Monday, March 4, 2013
A case of the Mondays.
Looks like someone has a case of the MONDAYS. Or perhaps I have a case of the EVERY DAYS. I don't really know where this blog post is headed, but it's not in a perfume-y, makeup-y, or otherwise fun direction.
Today was supposed to be the day I heard about whether or not I got the job I interviewed for on Thursday. My phone has yet to ring. It's not that I'm sad about it. There are a lot of people in this town that don't have jobs, and I am sure the company found someone who was more qualified than me. I'm just in a bad mood about the whole ordeal because now I have to swallow my pride and keep going. Keep applying, keep interviewing, keep dealing with all the bullshit until I finally get hired somewhere... At which point I can permanently deal with *that* bullshit on a regular basis. I'm just so frustrated with life right now. I'm tired of being poor, I'm tired of worrying, I'm tired of competing against the entire fucking overpopulated world for jobs I never even wanted. I often wonder why the hell I even got a degree, because it's pretty fucking useless and has been ever since I received it. But that's a whole 'nother ball of wax.
I'm getting to the point where I need a new job just for my sanity. Waking up in the morning is becoming a battle in and of itself. The negative feelings I have for my job and most of the people within it are beginning to consume me. It's happened with some of my jobs in the past, and I've always decided to find new jobs. I know a job is a JOB, but it just seems like so many of them are full to the brim with terrible people that seem to be put on this planet to make others' lives as miserable as possible. I just want a normal job with normal coworkers and bosses that aren't Satan himself. Just a regular job with enough hours to keep a roof over my head and enough extra money so I don't have to worry every day of my freaking life. Maybe that's way too much to ask. I don't know.
I'm not sure what else there is to say. Thanks for reading, and I apologize for such a cynical post.
Friday, March 1, 2013
Possets Day 8 (FINAL DAY!) ~ Lavender Corset; Washington
I have made it to the final day of my Possets perfume reviews! AND it's Friday! This calls for a celebration!
Image source:
Funlock.blogspot.com
The last two scents I have for you guys are Lavender Corset and Washington These were saved for last for Nadja, as they are not her thing :D The italicized scent descriptions are from Possets.
Lavender Corset
Such a pretty and old fashioned yet bleeding edge modern scent! Lavender Corset is more lilac than lavender, very feminine, long lasting and a persistent whisper of a fragrance. Like a corset it creates a perception about you but one about which others are barely conscious. It is magical, though. Perfect as a day perfume but not prim, perfect as an evening perfume but not brash. Characteristics: Lilac, musk, versatile, feminine, clean, sophisticated, long lasting, cooling, summer scent..
Lavender Corset is a very simple, yet pretty, perfume. The description is spot on, especially about the scent having lilac notes as opposed to lavender. It is the perfect lilac scent. Though lavender is renowned for its relaxation properties, I think lilac is just as calming (if not moreso). Lavender Corset is not for those who are into complex fragrances, as it's pretty one-dimensional. The lilac is the main component of this perfume at every scent stage. It is also a bit musky, though absolutely nothing like the overpowering musk in Silver Violets. The musk is very subtle and delicate, which makes it blend seamlessly with the lilac. I think this would be the perfect scent for spring or summer; but also for any hectic days where a calming scent would be beneficial. I could also see this as the perfect bedtime scent or even a linen spray :)
Washington
What do you think of when you think of Washington state? Apples, of course. But I put them with the sweet briar rose (which is actually its cousin and does grow well in Washington state), and a honey accord which is so smooth it is almost illegal. Finally I am topping this all off with an incense which weaves the entire thing together and you have what I consider an essential beautiful perfume fitting to represent a lovely place.
Cold sniff offers a very strong apple note. The Washington title paired with the apple note reminds me of the Twilight saga, haha. The honey really smoothes it out on the initial application. My hamsters would probably bite the hell out of me if they smelled this on my skin. They adore apples. I really have to concentrate to detect the rose, but I think a lot of that is due to the fact that Possets perfumes are so well blended. The incense comes out during the drydown, which is really nice. I like Washington more than I expected, it's really quite nice. :)
Pertinent Links
Possets Day 1 (The Tisane of the Witch)
Possets Day 2 (Sorrow)
Possets Day 3 (Dark Lady)
Possets Day 4 (The Fascinator)
Possets Day 5 (Death [The Pardoner's Tale])
Possets Day 6 (The Temptress)
Possets Day 7 (Silver Violets; Heka)
Disclaimer: These perfume samples were provided for free with my Possets purchase. I am not affiliated with or compensated by any of the companies mentioned. All opinions are my own and honest.
Image source:
Funlock.blogspot.com
The last two scents I have for you guys are Lavender Corset and Washington These were saved for last for Nadja, as they are not her thing :D The italicized scent descriptions are from Possets.
Lavender Corset
Such a pretty and old fashioned yet bleeding edge modern scent! Lavender Corset is more lilac than lavender, very feminine, long lasting and a persistent whisper of a fragrance. Like a corset it creates a perception about you but one about which others are barely conscious. It is magical, though. Perfect as a day perfume but not prim, perfect as an evening perfume but not brash. Characteristics: Lilac, musk, versatile, feminine, clean, sophisticated, long lasting, cooling, summer scent..
Lavender Corset is a very simple, yet pretty, perfume. The description is spot on, especially about the scent having lilac notes as opposed to lavender. It is the perfect lilac scent. Though lavender is renowned for its relaxation properties, I think lilac is just as calming (if not moreso). Lavender Corset is not for those who are into complex fragrances, as it's pretty one-dimensional. The lilac is the main component of this perfume at every scent stage. It is also a bit musky, though absolutely nothing like the overpowering musk in Silver Violets. The musk is very subtle and delicate, which makes it blend seamlessly with the lilac. I think this would be the perfect scent for spring or summer; but also for any hectic days where a calming scent would be beneficial. I could also see this as the perfect bedtime scent or even a linen spray :)
Washington
What do you think of when you think of Washington state? Apples, of course. But I put them with the sweet briar rose (which is actually its cousin and does grow well in Washington state), and a honey accord which is so smooth it is almost illegal. Finally I am topping this all off with an incense which weaves the entire thing together and you have what I consider an essential beautiful perfume fitting to represent a lovely place.
Cold sniff offers a very strong apple note. The Washington title paired with the apple note reminds me of the Twilight saga, haha. The honey really smoothes it out on the initial application. My hamsters would probably bite the hell out of me if they smelled this on my skin. They adore apples. I really have to concentrate to detect the rose, but I think a lot of that is due to the fact that Possets perfumes are so well blended. The incense comes out during the drydown, which is really nice. I like Washington more than I expected, it's really quite nice. :)
Pertinent Links
Possets Day 1 (The Tisane of the Witch)
Possets Day 2 (Sorrow)
Possets Day 3 (Dark Lady)
Possets Day 4 (The Fascinator)
Possets Day 5 (Death [The Pardoner's Tale])
Possets Day 6 (The Temptress)
Possets Day 7 (Silver Violets; Heka)
Disclaimer: These perfume samples were provided for free with my Possets purchase. I am not affiliated with or compensated by any of the companies mentioned. All opinions are my own and honest.
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