tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28106182990095616802024-03-16T14:53:00.445-04:00The Redolent MermaidA blog dedicated to home fragrance, wax tarts, candles, personal fragrance, niche perfumes, artisan perfumes, handcrafted body care, fabric arts, books, cooking and lifestyle happenings. TheRedolentMermaidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12025330454820306972noreply@blogger.comBlogger1524125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2810618299009561680.post-1400461932361695292023-02-14T07:00:00.005-05:002023-02-14T07:00:00.232-05:00MoonaLisa: Spring Perfumes<p style="text-align: center;"> Happy Valentine's Day!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK0Ip-65nWshsi2_2m8dlBpHHOd0cXhyiTYeGZxk7Ei1CtdlUKlY9-AW8cSEup1tOYPEzyDrVM2KqNQUFnmxT3NaZEYFII5OzLG_WSbpNQaz0tmHHAjj_LlWt5sDisrHXMgWdMIxe0pflZCT9LjTwhGpmw7GBrsn0gsWDD5xisOOQe86glPbbZpl8j/s3008/20220717-DSC_0057.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK0Ip-65nWshsi2_2m8dlBpHHOd0cXhyiTYeGZxk7Ei1CtdlUKlY9-AW8cSEup1tOYPEzyDrVM2KqNQUFnmxT3NaZEYFII5OzLG_WSbpNQaz0tmHHAjj_LlWt5sDisrHXMgWdMIxe0pflZCT9LjTwhGpmw7GBrsn0gsWDD5xisOOQe86glPbbZpl8j/w640-h426/20220717-DSC_0057.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">These perfumes were my choices from the MoonaLisa spring collection release last year. These scents were at the <a href="https://mooscents.com/collections" target="_blank">MooScents webstore</a> and ran $15.95 each. Most are currently available right now.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0Yep8ebwl7MEfRLA47bNTICTbuFCArvkoUXlwzF_WpuWEZAo89WIxkLHWyoIor8C7oSG1hVHdTiAyayDb6Wq7sZRVxzLhPOx7Ny4z-lK0RTZ4-yN_88IJKlsr8P7ahcU86V1uSwqFWtRQMq4W_tgpNPsMqubnVXR3mz2A_HBqc4jGewpUjSM-1TjW/s3008/20220717-DSC_0058.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0Yep8ebwl7MEfRLA47bNTICTbuFCArvkoUXlwzF_WpuWEZAo89WIxkLHWyoIor8C7oSG1hVHdTiAyayDb6Wq7sZRVxzLhPOx7Ny4z-lK0RTZ4-yN_88IJKlsr8P7ahcU86V1uSwqFWtRQMq4W_tgpNPsMqubnVXR3mz2A_HBqc4jGewpUjSM-1TjW/w640-h426/20220717-DSC_0058.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Mon Citron Bijou (My Citrus Jewel)-</b> <i>Notes: A patchouli lover's dream! With lively all-natural grapefruit, and five other citrus oils, and earthy patchouli notes.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I had this as a soap sample a very very long time ago. I remembered it being a cheerful and energetic scent that felt clean, vital, and happy. It translates beautifully into the perfume. The patchouli is fresh and clean, robust with citrus and sunshine. It sparkles with lightness and natural beauty. This one will get worn often.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Aphrodite-</b><i> Notes: Sandalwood, cinnamon, cypress and more. Spicy and woodsy. Represents "The Maiden", love, passion, Venus, growth and longevity.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I am embarrassed to say that I happened. I have so much perfume that I bought this a second time without realizing that I already had one. Yikes. I guess it isn't all bad news. I mean, after all, it is only 3mL so it is a very small amount. Good thing Moona is affordable! After smelling and wearing Aphrodite, I am happy I got an extra. I have a soft spot for sandalwood and cinnamon and this is an excellent rendition. The sandalwood is creamy and soft while the cinnamon is warming. The wood and spice marry beautifully.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL1g5WUCFynNzpY7A2ldRsVIwcT03s-mqk8ZHDS2yEC7glXME1WU4akM7PnAj2xZoecidt7Lkqi2bL01Iyiap-EBi6GKcsvRoq50c_lMzcI6JGcZtP9kJwa-2B3q6nxweZqlQZGxjilJdwoBcGhdz7Li0E7gwW0OenkvqmP-0y3pinfhzTLUHBcmgH/s3008/20220717-DSC_0059.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL1g5WUCFynNzpY7A2ldRsVIwcT03s-mqk8ZHDS2yEC7glXME1WU4akM7PnAj2xZoecidt7Lkqi2bL01Iyiap-EBi6GKcsvRoq50c_lMzcI6JGcZtP9kJwa-2B3q6nxweZqlQZGxjilJdwoBcGhdz7Li0E7gwW0OenkvqmP-0y3pinfhzTLUHBcmgH/w640-h426/20220717-DSC_0059.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Duchess of Willowdale-</b><i> Notes: Amber, labdanum, Salome's Secret, mixed with dark decadent chocolate oils.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This is an interesting fragrance. The chocolate is dark with cacao and behind it is a sharp resin. The duchess possesses a razor edge smile. She may beguile, however, something nefarious lurks in the depths of her eyes. This is polarizing scent that pushes and pulls the senses. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Chocolate Butter Run Beignet-</b><i> Notes: Dark premium rich chocolate covers a deep fried beignet soaked in buttery rum sauce.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I have often read about the pure and simple magic of Moona's chocolate scents. I typically do not wear chocolate scents with much happiness but I wished to sample the wares. Chocolate Butter Rum Beignet is without a doubt a chocolate perfume. This one is sweeter, creamier, and easier to wear than the duchess. It is a straightforward gourmet scent. There is a caramel thickness and a vanilla lushness that compliments the chocolate. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Aurelia-</b> <i>Notes: Delicious ripe raspberries top this lovely, raspberry jam filled white wedding cake, doused with vanilla cream, topped with dried rose petals, and with a hint of sandalwood ambered musk.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I used to adore the home fragrance wax tarts from Lasting Scent Candles that were all about the wedding cake and fruits. I must have been feeling nostalgic for that aroma when I tossed this into my cart. The raspberry is juicy, sweet and bright. It emits a sticky jam texture that brings to mind the wonderful raspberry scent that The Bathing Garden uses in wax and scrubs. The sugary jam melts away and the raspberries gain a tartness that glistens with subtle nuances of rose and vanilla. It never turns into Lush Rose Jam. This always remains a raspberry first and foremost. It is lovely.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju9vXce0IdEdZWX07l2G0SQEJlqG1lkLRRIsZJieILpl6-TI6koNfH8g8ngpcAjMKyVDSEn9oqhMnfjgu0FxECrOOTuWC37qYtXKxUVkVXF7iIXMZkHb157D-GoHBfqSyJ2SEGntUYXBQv8FdmTHh-1fqmvX7pHEY5ZyI0mT0xSoyHNKezHvu_etYQ/s3008/20220717-DSC_0060.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju9vXce0IdEdZWX07l2G0SQEJlqG1lkLRRIsZJieILpl6-TI6koNfH8g8ngpcAjMKyVDSEn9oqhMnfjgu0FxECrOOTuWC37qYtXKxUVkVXF7iIXMZkHb157D-GoHBfqSyJ2SEGntUYXBQv8FdmTHh-1fqmvX7pHEY5ZyI0mT0xSoyHNKezHvu_etYQ/w640-h426/20220717-DSC_0060.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Salome's Secret-</b> <i>Notes: A crushing blend of various amber resins mixed with a rich and boozy vanilla absolute, for a smoldering promise.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I had this perfume several years ago and after a bit of aging it became the most lovely gilded resin. I wore it frequently, received compliment frequently, and drained every last drop. When I saw it remerge I purchased two of these lovelies to wear at my leisure. If you enjoy amber perfumes, this one should be in your radar. Give it some age and wear with abandon.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Ostara-</b><i> Notes: Rites of spring. Cedarwood, lavender, rose, clove, and a touch of dragon's blood.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Years ago I had Ostara as a wax tart from a Moona mystery bag and it was love at first sniff. Ostara is a earthy floral beauty that is soft and plush like velvet. The resins and roses and woods are pillowy and comforting, yet suggest a breath of a dirt floored cottage with fresh herbs strewn underfoot. It is peaceful and nurturing.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZR07q0nV9l1rbV2Bb8P1o3cBEckp8AIKw1tOnN3C3PQoiz3qHKxwirIIwt1AFdr1zFKFpj2E7uf-o9ghGJjf-OosmrpfcMgLxmvV6ZdkN_KaEQOLI4dwX0YhpR8oLMQ1XS46xw2gaco3ygwSyKQB8WswvsRSAKto7DIvBdYXJRT7n0jNkgM2yiUPf/s3008/20220717-DSC_0061.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZR07q0nV9l1rbV2Bb8P1o3cBEckp8AIKw1tOnN3C3PQoiz3qHKxwirIIwt1AFdr1zFKFpj2E7uf-o9ghGJjf-OosmrpfcMgLxmvV6ZdkN_KaEQOLI4dwX0YhpR8oLMQ1XS46xw2gaco3ygwSyKQB8WswvsRSAKto7DIvBdYXJRT7n0jNkgM2yiUPf/w640-h426/20220717-DSC_0061.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Field of Dreams-</b> <i>Notes: Amber with lavender kashmir, lavender absolute, and lavender.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This is a limpid lavender that starts with a watery herbal quality. As it dries down the the lavender moves from the its dewy water element into its earthen phase. A bit of ambery sweetness edges into the lavender. It is beautiful to wear if you area a lavender lover.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Bee's Knees-</b> <i>Notes: Honey, honeysuckle, and hyacinth.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This is not a scent profile I typically go for, but with the affordable pricing of MoonaLisa's perfumes, this is a wonderful house to get adventurous with. I had read some glowing reviews of this scent for people who enjoy honeysuckle, and this just happened to be a hole in my collection. Wearing this scent is akin to walking in a fairytale meadow, honeyed sunshine pouring through the air, flowers brushing claves and lending their fragrant pollen and perfume. The honeysuckle and hyacinth possess a liquid clarity without being screechy or overbearing. The honey offers sweetness and roundness to the florals. I love this one so much I also picked up the EDP format in order to layer them on my body and hair and clothing. This is spring in a scent.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipOhI0jrwLPi7aSx5TghRRtIAq_TuFUae8-IBcIVZajW7WAlE6XJDCMVVjrYy53dNbMqkwcul8DJR3rLmQ6oc0UqV-GzFQ2-dLPQvXJXRJeon2WMGmoNqVywOyPTY-VIIifK_5p4m2JIisb5OlEIo6pgpQzrc5ZZmuFteh_fiOEbLzCv6SWtFtgNzw/s2936/20220717-DSC_0055.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1918" data-original-width="2936" height="418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipOhI0jrwLPi7aSx5TghRRtIAq_TuFUae8-IBcIVZajW7WAlE6XJDCMVVjrYy53dNbMqkwcul8DJR3rLmQ6oc0UqV-GzFQ2-dLPQvXJXRJeon2WMGmoNqVywOyPTY-VIIifK_5p4m2JIisb5OlEIo6pgpQzrc5ZZmuFteh_fiOEbLzCv6SWtFtgNzw/w640-h418/20220717-DSC_0055.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">MoonaLisa is open for spring scents currently at<a href="https://mooscents.com/collections"> MooScents.com </a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">There are some stunning perfumes and soaps, candles, and such available now. I hope to get a few bars of soap. They are so generously sized and smell amazing.</div><p></p>TheRedolentMermaidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12025330454820306972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2810618299009561680.post-1098821518992179762023-01-05T07:00:00.001-05:002023-01-05T07:00:00.202-05:00Travel: Belgium, Luxembourg, Netherlands<p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg05E3J9EdiFqZ4bGMbBcTchRKyZoE_IUWu2sVB6X1THQazSK0OgX5FoQ83DJwvIjYzzQXonTZ2f05I1sQW9MV-Qtfn3dTi02WvMu3_wE7GO7Ce6HMdSiMLuiaaBwpCrATXhGf9qCvMQpMinymyk3108z-NnUCzCJyucW2WV-Muo_xwRfogOPauEDOl/s3008/20220609-DSC_0014.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg05E3J9EdiFqZ4bGMbBcTchRKyZoE_IUWu2sVB6X1THQazSK0OgX5FoQ83DJwvIjYzzQXonTZ2f05I1sQW9MV-Qtfn3dTi02WvMu3_wE7GO7Ce6HMdSiMLuiaaBwpCrATXhGf9qCvMQpMinymyk3108z-NnUCzCJyucW2WV-Muo_xwRfogOPauEDOl/w640-h426/20220609-DSC_0014.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Last summer, after a couple years of saving, we were able to fly out as a family to visit my sister, her husband and their new baby in Belgium. They are stationed near Peer, Belgium in the Air Force. It is a tiny base with no housing or schools or even a commissary. They have to drive to the Netherlands to visit the BX. But the street and town they live in is lovely. Very bucolic. There are horses in the backyard, wheat fields on the street, and a quaint temple at the end of it. </div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbm7oHIzEsunq2H-q3Lmh1QF5KZuzS1FmjKpb6UBzSwzI5gSSrhS61vzgowNx3oz646DQ8BlNGFOFKi5Sh9JOZRe61RcxBca7syPWDrxXRoEM-4r09J7ag3XMLHUnIVE_FZsdQTTG28E471YxO4S2Tqa4rCx7L66AW8Hyb9aKjltBFQUZEMOm7iMGR/s3008/20220609-DSC_0015.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbm7oHIzEsunq2H-q3Lmh1QF5KZuzS1FmjKpb6UBzSwzI5gSSrhS61vzgowNx3oz646DQ8BlNGFOFKi5Sh9JOZRe61RcxBca7syPWDrxXRoEM-4r09J7ag3XMLHUnIVE_FZsdQTTG28E471YxO4S2Tqa4rCx7L66AW8Hyb9aKjltBFQUZEMOm7iMGR/w640-h426/20220609-DSC_0015.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">They sleep with windows open. The doors are unlocked all day, even when they leave the house.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4AuCGpCwrjSBeHP8rSNQYxrhYVgNyMhEeq7pR1_7vetmBZO-E2L5JWa1iyXTEpAbPAh_r04pJ5WjIp7AvsoPq6Mbs8lJ8IWbjJ5MFSRdpfCjqjj6p51_1FabnTph0qCgdX5x9FcYaG6b1-6bj0bhfLfzkIPiMtMu99a-fbizromyTz6DBmDu6gJMp/s2972/20220609-DSC_0019.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2972" data-original-width="1976" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4AuCGpCwrjSBeHP8rSNQYxrhYVgNyMhEeq7pR1_7vetmBZO-E2L5JWa1iyXTEpAbPAh_r04pJ5WjIp7AvsoPq6Mbs8lJ8IWbjJ5MFSRdpfCjqjj6p51_1FabnTph0qCgdX5x9FcYaG6b1-6bj0bhfLfzkIPiMtMu99a-fbizromyTz6DBmDu6gJMp/w426-h640/20220609-DSC_0019.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjibKGaSmrJ2ag6u233VRJSaak_nPSJMrkfvIEwOBj3VoZ9jsA6GtUFtBZFJGBw8epjnhVNuFCDcvCamsNNNZu6ThR_8sblCXz5K1DuBXFwDmheo7M-a0EXPOanBcb5WzYKswgCGOJSVixdJXCzBJLoEQC-KhbEJSFKgD2j48rajxfyUY9nOPnMdxQD/s2933/20220608-DSC_0011.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2933" data-original-width="1950" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjibKGaSmrJ2ag6u233VRJSaak_nPSJMrkfvIEwOBj3VoZ9jsA6GtUFtBZFJGBw8epjnhVNuFCDcvCamsNNNZu6ThR_8sblCXz5K1DuBXFwDmheo7M-a0EXPOanBcb5WzYKswgCGOJSVixdJXCzBJLoEQC-KhbEJSFKgD2j48rajxfyUY9nOPnMdxQD/w426-h640/20220608-DSC_0011.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Meeting my niece for the first time was amazing. Ellie and Scarlette hit it off pretty quickly.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvLDFa5JJ0XAC0Z79rx_5SnsYDyxaLoJw3S9hW9HIezG2n_oSD-IWKbKMsPWcIDh03MyfK2zFFNRcomOgy6L7jbrVD2Q0AxKcRLqZAa5bpavtbB9fSVmdITE7eT8x5tADNqS_KRC2IEgrp9IQTziDGrsiSOg5G9-xLiPoIxbLkEXJu0ZjijrDzgHlU/s3008/20220608-DSC_0008.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvLDFa5JJ0XAC0Z79rx_5SnsYDyxaLoJw3S9hW9HIezG2n_oSD-IWKbKMsPWcIDh03MyfK2zFFNRcomOgy6L7jbrVD2Q0AxKcRLqZAa5bpavtbB9fSVmdITE7eT8x5tADNqS_KRC2IEgrp9IQTziDGrsiSOg5G9-xLiPoIxbLkEXJu0ZjijrDzgHlU/w640-h426/20220608-DSC_0008.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We made our way to the city center. The streets were immaculate, the buildings had fun details like this cheeky fella holding a shutter open.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkQ8uiXcdDf9G6ieY3LlIjMgEiZMwoEwIu6qAsnRdTF6j8D-pZ-OUOV8J_nS1-5BQ7y_XXES3cPcMrLU9pEbJYXbYi-pUpUB5qQ-TO91jeoFOBddnpDFzxr_FfRkrzKAgmxF2KLZDtxZJdzx0Tho1smiaTgdvBMDiEej0ZVGJvHNCYdcoVFwcsYnA8/s2935/20220608-DSC_0007.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1951" data-original-width="2935" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkQ8uiXcdDf9G6ieY3LlIjMgEiZMwoEwIu6qAsnRdTF6j8D-pZ-OUOV8J_nS1-5BQ7y_XXES3cPcMrLU9pEbJYXbYi-pUpUB5qQ-TO91jeoFOBddnpDFzxr_FfRkrzKAgmxF2KLZDtxZJdzx0Tho1smiaTgdvBMDiEej0ZVGJvHNCYdcoVFwcsYnA8/w640-h426/20220608-DSC_0007.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We ate some gelato, fries with copious mayo, and walked around.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2-tO8cg7XAt7eCMao--5z48I2ll4yaiHNC-qA29a6HeiSk103Bhjsa1aDZiv0QlB9ahFPezlIbjid8qkEKcUE78QNFcep6MiJ9lL9up4yYTRKK7mviyaKtTGjNm67JjZaG5iv52Irr4maqlIynHpdGphVmsmT2NDyS1dHXHPlpS5C4xsJbcFczyTR/s3008/20220611-DSC_0070.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2-tO8cg7XAt7eCMao--5z48I2ll4yaiHNC-qA29a6HeiSk103Bhjsa1aDZiv0QlB9ahFPezlIbjid8qkEKcUE78QNFcep6MiJ9lL9up4yYTRKK7mviyaKtTGjNm67JjZaG5iv52Irr4maqlIynHpdGphVmsmT2NDyS1dHXHPlpS5C4xsJbcFczyTR/w640-h426/20220611-DSC_0070.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9mAta952Rgire70lEwgVxEY8iD1XpKnYgtv80yAekeJDZitP2cF4ShpeuopHft5cOqiz-XZ3ODDA_l7p3b4O814N5ND1SgGevSy7C_FensWcFo8i6i5fUxcqAUBBCHHpbdWQfVjKwqfdBI-lHoB8cSpOf3_ttvtQisBJ7AdcEtk99gAUqpHPUbnBv/s3008/20220611-DSC_0071.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9mAta952Rgire70lEwgVxEY8iD1XpKnYgtv80yAekeJDZitP2cF4ShpeuopHft5cOqiz-XZ3ODDA_l7p3b4O814N5ND1SgGevSy7C_FensWcFo8i6i5fUxcqAUBBCHHpbdWQfVjKwqfdBI-lHoB8cSpOf3_ttvtQisBJ7AdcEtk99gAUqpHPUbnBv/w640-h426/20220611-DSC_0071.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The poppies and wildflowers were everywhere. I was totally enamored.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheDKEH7EG80nJXlab4GFOkdM7AkmAU-FN9C4R2CmXduKo3WmFWs1JcPnYQpJW-XJwCpFhrmrC16CAEHuYcuXNxTum3Zy4kX5tK034uHOyGAicmcGMveHsUiSxFwWWlVVSuXFX0jQmyr1EixIF82QfSwrqD3MKYK-PPOqu8jtYr4IpQr9FUa3zhCKso/s3008/20220610-DSC_0060.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheDKEH7EG80nJXlab4GFOkdM7AkmAU-FN9C4R2CmXduKo3WmFWs1JcPnYQpJW-XJwCpFhrmrC16CAEHuYcuXNxTum3Zy4kX5tK034uHOyGAicmcGMveHsUiSxFwWWlVVSuXFX0jQmyr1EixIF82QfSwrqD3MKYK-PPOqu8jtYr4IpQr9FUa3zhCKso/w640-h426/20220610-DSC_0060.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We visited Antwerp, Belgium and went sightseeing, but I didn't take a ton of photos that day. It was mostly about soaking it in and spending time with the family. We drove to Luxembourg City, Luxembourg next. The Walls of the Corniche were awesome to see, encircling the city. They are called Europe's most beautiful balcony and I can see why. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFLW-AtTkdl0sRFX9eThoD90LSboRVonvcIdC8k_UXwbcFEnAxgKj3LnlP9qwGkigGFKWylfQkcZJBc9Sy1o6TcOggZ5kgWg_t6gtNLNPS6VGMoiBSjppSrwVx66NijFGRlR5r4-Ota1KgznAt_V_TiirOXVOVvoTxbOlUQl-Vz5GXeDlhxoTzEabF/s3008/20220610-DSC_0063.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3008" data-original-width="2000" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFLW-AtTkdl0sRFX9eThoD90LSboRVonvcIdC8k_UXwbcFEnAxgKj3LnlP9qwGkigGFKWylfQkcZJBc9Sy1o6TcOggZ5kgWg_t6gtNLNPS6VGMoiBSjppSrwVx66NijFGRlR5r4-Ota1KgznAt_V_TiirOXVOVvoTxbOlUQl-Vz5GXeDlhxoTzEabF/w426-h640/20220610-DSC_0063.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">There was a small market going on in the city center. I picked up a few thrifted trinkets from a sweet lady. We visited the museum and ate at McDonald's of all places. The girls loved seeing the menu differences. And yes, instead of a Quarter Pounder, I had the Mc Royale. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX2mLS17Gf_pfKZeZ478hBrFg3pBEjSVYp5R72iEYf6ZYBMkiWFeebj_BOuB-ubrE7z-aC07rhDCoWHnJx42H9gQBnlrOegRll0jdnUePyk5cZp88qD1Uc2MY511vzxyEjz_D_UuQn8TfO0UtT1TmWiVlglvN4eEVFxgzc0CvkOyHogQ_N1GQRPHrY/s3008/20220610-DSC_0068.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX2mLS17Gf_pfKZeZ478hBrFg3pBEjSVYp5R72iEYf6ZYBMkiWFeebj_BOuB-ubrE7z-aC07rhDCoWHnJx42H9gQBnlrOegRll0jdnUePyk5cZp88qD1Uc2MY511vzxyEjz_D_UuQn8TfO0UtT1TmWiVlglvN4eEVFxgzc0CvkOyHogQ_N1GQRPHrY/w640-h426/20220610-DSC_0068.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Luxembourg was Savanna's favorite place.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0jqpFc1e1p7iQTPjtPlyUhD6-tvEay0LARLcSAka5OsGqFEe55JmEbMpPhTanMnlCWb22QkcKKbX_J4QVRob1couuJeYqOEtbmCNT6MgdYcpixA_2qf4ESx0ZKoQtnlzv0YsnqCPgl2isXutk9KSoeFGv8Z6guD_lZruivOY0QlBF5Xz8NOjrv6_7/s2768/20220612-DSC_0078.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1864" data-original-width="2768" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0jqpFc1e1p7iQTPjtPlyUhD6-tvEay0LARLcSAka5OsGqFEe55JmEbMpPhTanMnlCWb22QkcKKbX_J4QVRob1couuJeYqOEtbmCNT6MgdYcpixA_2qf4ESx0ZKoQtnlzv0YsnqCPgl2isXutk9KSoeFGv8Z6guD_lZruivOY0QlBF5Xz8NOjrv6_7/w640-h430/20220612-DSC_0078.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">After that we rested a day and hung out at the house, watching TV, catching up. Then it was Scarlette's 13th birthday. She chose to go to a theme park in the Netherlands (I looked up a lot of different places, an arcade, a zoo, and more- this is what she landed on) called Eftling. It is an old fairy tale theme park that was utterly enchanting.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0RdWCL7dsKwPATU0no7izqnPZhxHCONLDBG52DQnZlsx4MtRHnx6rjg6H1mYjvu3jRkK29a12ygSTEexjX-s-Iujo-uKGeGxwH-sgK4lFykRftjsTtPvwmHuEDYX5lrRFxVzVGv7tU_EVMEAGRaYcdNhGaQQWVc7poSfXjV0ZTJVCpwIBoc7sU4P8/s3008/20220612-DSC_0081.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3008" data-original-width="2000" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0RdWCL7dsKwPATU0no7izqnPZhxHCONLDBG52DQnZlsx4MtRHnx6rjg6H1mYjvu3jRkK29a12ygSTEexjX-s-Iujo-uKGeGxwH-sgK4lFykRftjsTtPvwmHuEDYX5lrRFxVzVGv7tU_EVMEAGRaYcdNhGaQQWVc7poSfXjV0ZTJVCpwIBoc7sU4P8/w426-h640/20220612-DSC_0081.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We rode rides, Scarlette and Dustin rode a roller coaster, we did a boat cruise, and walked through a fairy tale forest.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz3HmWnHKHwWMvjgfsWJ0Q08ckCByQYtIM5cVEjheFnGSQ2ZLgTDKhWdFVngb93JkTj5JpEX-gp8NyHo4nw9LucscWwQZviav6qlfemzH3IEemca2IRCDgkcwkcJBILhtHkVGioEn-Kg-wJSPqMUvJRfJY1tVjCE2FNhz3wWZdsTIsIi0YK9-cAmH-/s3008/20220612-DSC_0085.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz3HmWnHKHwWMvjgfsWJ0Q08ckCByQYtIM5cVEjheFnGSQ2ZLgTDKhWdFVngb93JkTj5JpEX-gp8NyHo4nw9LucscWwQZviav6qlfemzH3IEemca2IRCDgkcwkcJBILhtHkVGioEn-Kg-wJSPqMUvJRfJY1tVjCE2FNhz3wWZdsTIsIi0YK9-cAmH-/w640-h426/20220612-DSC_0085.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The food was surprisingly cheap. I am used to Disney and Universal prices. The huge hotdog I got was only $4. It would easily have been $14 at Disney. It was delicious too.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRHuYAtbk_muOifQLSc6JAhLgBCW6qgPu343CWDBQPktdCFHLwejP9hRKPB3SZhzSlRYubd_8Hnw193-TBVyhvbnoT5ikUsDxUt3sxKDJwa9Or0V3bWeMDurQ1YFmi9Leoq8tumA0MeVTrzu1f6kKEqXtE51MET31upjVCUqVGYmVWa-w_1RlRm15T/s3008/20220612-DSC_0087.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRHuYAtbk_muOifQLSc6JAhLgBCW6qgPu343CWDBQPktdCFHLwejP9hRKPB3SZhzSlRYubd_8Hnw193-TBVyhvbnoT5ikUsDxUt3sxKDJwa9Or0V3bWeMDurQ1YFmi9Leoq8tumA0MeVTrzu1f6kKEqXtE51MET31upjVCUqVGYmVWa-w_1RlRm15T/w640-h426/20220612-DSC_0087.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We spent a week staying at their home in Belgium. It was charming, beautiful and peaceful. The second week we all packed our bags and took the EuroStar high speed rail under the channel to the UK.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZLEbgfIxfiq7aOpvIOt-6pSCNanD1PyEcn8F8sKkSvJFNU475BFXi4mdV80ZJWITxst-4-15p1Cwx4-B1UKC4szhBTQVQSmz5v01ov1dHo2-TMWciOptkyc-iFF9A2d7HxPwb4vRpgnR2qyjZsOW6nvyAWOi7S6IatWoZTQxmujRKTVmWCFwBVB5i/s3008/20220612-DSC_0088.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3008" data-original-width="2000" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZLEbgfIxfiq7aOpvIOt-6pSCNanD1PyEcn8F8sKkSvJFNU475BFXi4mdV80ZJWITxst-4-15p1Cwx4-B1UKC4szhBTQVQSmz5v01ov1dHo2-TMWciOptkyc-iFF9A2d7HxPwb4vRpgnR2qyjZsOW6nvyAWOi7S6IatWoZTQxmujRKTVmWCFwBVB5i/w426-h640/20220612-DSC_0088.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I will post that adventure next. We loved Belgium. Adam, the girls and I still talk about it. It was funny, even a couple nights ago Adam told me he had a good dream about being back there.</div><br /><p></p>TheRedolentMermaidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12025330454820306972noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2810618299009561680.post-22212849633218813122023-01-02T07:00:00.008-05:002023-01-02T10:40:43.407-05:002023 Reading Challenge<p style="text-align: left;"> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6GDc22QVSZUnqcDEUGQU0ceDiPuvhzUj6cV8pGYnnFKjcAjKv29m_ZSn9e6Vvxx8asYWCrr2GzlsX-c117OOal0M30tinARKY2zElEZxXLNvlQMjKgzgWHo9Q1W-8sRKot_9dj6iDSq7yYx_WDD74kSLrZqxCnejnE6rV9xZ2KSmoVLVcFDfmDW3Y/s1080/1%20-%20JPG.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6GDc22QVSZUnqcDEUGQU0ceDiPuvhzUj6cV8pGYnnFKjcAjKv29m_ZSn9e6Vvxx8asYWCrr2GzlsX-c117OOal0M30tinARKY2zElEZxXLNvlQMjKgzgWHo9Q1W-8sRKot_9dj6iDSq7yYx_WDD74kSLrZqxCnejnE6rV9xZ2KSmoVLVcFDfmDW3Y/w640-h640/1%20-%20JPG.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQcCS2In5djRU6CBxTq-TKwS-9uo3ZW-7OAiL8uT2fBGxXWRPYBfWfzVwYzHT1QyfK8Ex7fEXsKN0QEe0u8UTK1dFdO8hvDIn7WLcTqP7dfvHy_SrrpafAzCOx-kHZOT77KPo8eOo8zelLWtXQUUXIFEvlAgPcQSN0cTyk9zqatZPlHESz4e-wAwCh/s1080/2%20-%20JPG.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQcCS2In5djRU6CBxTq-TKwS-9uo3ZW-7OAiL8uT2fBGxXWRPYBfWfzVwYzHT1QyfK8Ex7fEXsKN0QEe0u8UTK1dFdO8hvDIn7WLcTqP7dfvHy_SrrpafAzCOx-kHZOT77KPo8eOo8zelLWtXQUUXIFEvlAgPcQSN0cTyk9zqatZPlHESz4e-wAwCh/w640-h640/2%20-%20JPG.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p style="text-align: center;">Jay and I got together once again to create a reading challenge for 2023. I was thrilled with how last year's went for me. I got a ton of great reading done. It is all tucked away in my heart and mind, enriching my thoughts. We typically do close to 30 prompts, but with the coming year being extra busy for us we whittled it down to 25, that is two a month plus a bonus. Please follow along with us and use the hashtag so we can see what you are reading and recommending!</p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Merriweather,serif; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 300; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">1. 2023 Word for the year- Inclusive. Choose a book with an author that has an IDD </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Merriweather,serif; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 300; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">(Intellectual and Developmental Disability) or topics or themes revolving around IDDs. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Merriweather,serif; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 300; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">2. Viva Magenta! or Rainbow Colors! Pick a bold cover with vibrant hues.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Merriweather,serif; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 300; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">3. Read something by the best selling novelist of all time (only behind the Bible and Shakespear)- Agatha Christie. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Merriweather,serif; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 300; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">4. A blind pick: have a friend or partner pull a book for you, or close your eyes and choose. Some thrift book shops </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Merriweather,serif; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 300; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">even have blind paper bag buys. Those can be fun!</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Merriweather,serif; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 300; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">5. Seasonal: Read a book with a season in the title. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Merriweather,serif; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 300; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">6. Diving Deeper: Read about a topic you listen to podcasts about, watch documentaries on, or are learning about.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Merriweather,serif; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 300; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">7. LOL!- Find a book that makes you literally laugh out loud, or at least crack some smiles- if not these, </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Merriweather,serif; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 300; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">then authored by a comedian.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Merriweather,serif; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 300; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">8. Long-Ass Title: Find a book with at least seven words in the title. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Merriweather,serif; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 300; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">9. Absolutely Amazing Alliteration in the title.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Merriweather,serif; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 300; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">10. Book set in Africa.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Merriweather,serif; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 300; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">11. Weekend Escape: A book you can finish in a couple days.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Merriweather,serif; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 300; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">12. </span><span style="font-family: Merriweather, serif; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre;">Mood Reader: Read whatever feels good or fits your mood.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Merriweather,serif; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 300; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">13. </span><span style="font-family: Merriweather, serif; font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre;">Miniature Delights: Read a book that is 5 x 7 or smaller. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Merriweather,serif; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 300; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">14. Book pairing: choose a book and a favorite chocolate, tea, or wine to enjoy right along with it.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Merriweather,serif; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 300; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">15. Magpie: Choose a cover with stars, sparkles, glints, or shimmery attractive bits and bobs.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Merriweather,serif; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 300; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">16. Book Shield: grab a book for when reading is your coping mechanism</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Merriweather,serif; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 300; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">17. 90s: set in, or written during</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Merriweather,serif; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 300; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">18. Enigmatic title: one that makes you do a double-take, in which you must find out more.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Merriweather,serif; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 300; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">19. Eye-opening read</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Merriweather,serif; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 300; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">20. Speculative fiction: encompassing books that take place in our world but with an added </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Merriweather,serif; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 300; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">magical/supernatural/futuristic twist</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Merriweather,serif; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 300; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">21. Author you can't believe you haven't read yet</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Merriweather,serif; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 300; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">22. Library setting or Bibliophilia</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Merriweather,serif; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 300; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">23. Booked on a feeling: books that cause big feelings</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Merriweather,serif; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 300; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">24. Fantasy subgenre: for reference: High, Low, Epic, Historical, Urban, Magical Realism, Grimdark...</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Merriweather, serif; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre;">25. Reflections: cover or content</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Merriweather, serif; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Merriweather, serif; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre;">This year I would like to reading the last book in the Outlander series, I have it sitting on my shelf ready to go.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Merriweather, serif; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre;"> I would also like to add in The Outsider by Stephen King, some Emily Dickinson poetry, and a new series. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Merriweather, serif; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre;">What are you hoping to get to?</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><br /></p>TheRedolentMermaidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12025330454820306972noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2810618299009561680.post-85883423407587502462022-12-31T10:50:00.000-05:002022-12-31T10:50:04.564-05:00Ebb & Flow: December 2022<p style="text-align: center;"> <i>The highs and lows of the month.</i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioTbFie2b_HCgkVb0FmDbslM2PCL6LuxAJhj8shTqnkpuf29Be0Dy9DXCcOVwKjfNDRbEA_enSmE5oPHOD5FXXGYBY11LXok8j3aS2p4udm2rYIz-SMIV8fN99evnQivg2I7_k5i0Rn_Um_P6vl7BJYPBx4zXhTPw51MtdhC-9re2jjt4feIiDivoS/s3008/20220616-DSC_0135.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioTbFie2b_HCgkVb0FmDbslM2PCL6LuxAJhj8shTqnkpuf29Be0Dy9DXCcOVwKjfNDRbEA_enSmE5oPHOD5FXXGYBY11LXok8j3aS2p4udm2rYIz-SMIV8fN99evnQivg2I7_k5i0Rn_Um_P6vl7BJYPBx4zXhTPw51MtdhC-9re2jjt4feIiDivoS/w640-h426/20220616-DSC_0135.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Perfume:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Moonalisa Cedarwood and Patchouli EDP</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Perfume Oil:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Arcana Wildcraft Two Finger Ballet, Moonalisa Yule Woods, and Nocturne Alchemy Veil in heavy rotation.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Lotion:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Blood Moon Botanica Rose Gold Velvet</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Scrub:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The Bathing Garden mini scrub samples, just used up Mrs. Cratchit's Christmas Pudding. Shannon's scrubs are a forever favorite. My husband even placed an order for me for Christmas this year. It was a sweet surprise!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Hair Care: </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Future Primitive shampoo bar and conditioning hair rinse, my all time favorites, any scents but currently in Nanook</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Skin Care:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Blood Moon Botanica Moon Dew hyaluronic acid serum with a few drops of the Luminous Oil. Britton will be on break due to having a baby (last I saw she was even in the hospital at the moment in labor!). I should have stocked up a touch more but hopefully she will come back to making body care and such in the future. She is quitting social media, so her newsletter is the best way to follow her. She had an amazing podcast that I am still listening to, and she recently published a book, which I bought. I love supporting Britton.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Candles:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Burning the old Bath and Body Works still. I have tried a few indie candles but other than Sihaya and Witch City Wicks, I just keeping returning to BBW for the size and price (on sale of course). Currently burning Fireside and Smoked Vanilla Whiskey, which smell amazing together. Other favorites this year: Flannel, Twisted Peppermint, Palo Santo, Vanilla Balsam, and Balsam & Firewood.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Wax:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Candles From the Keeping Room Citrus and Balsam, as well as, Plumberry Spice. I ordered from Carol during each of her last openings and I am quite stocked up on her wax for when she retires. If she has any more openings I will place orders too. I plan on keeping my warmers going as long as I can. I did place a couple orders with Starlit Corner but the throw varied a lot. I am totally mesmerized by her videos. I also ordered from Vintage Chic Scents a couple times this year and enjoyed the fall scents I ordered. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Eating:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sesame candy, toast, Slim Jims. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Drinking:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">DRAM sparkling waters (love them all!), coffee with that Target Marshmallow whipped cream on top, water.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Listening:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Twenty One Pilots Vessel album that Savanna bought me for my birthday.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Watching:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Married at First Sight with the girls, Unsolved Mysteries (with Robert Stack) with Savanna, and finished up Outlander. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Reading:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">All over the place, really. Just finished <i>Hausfrau</i> about a woman whose life is flying off the rails, <i>Mythos</i> which is retold Greek mythology tales by Stephen Fry, and about to dive into some Virginia Woolf. I have the last <i>Outlander</i> book and need to finish that soon. Jay and I are doing another reading challenge and it will be posted January 2nd. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Awaiting:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Savanna turning sixteen! Already peeking at used cars. Planning on how to fit that into the budget. She doesn't want a party, but does want to visit Cornell's campus in Ithaca, New York. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Dreading:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Not dreading, but I am a touch overwhelmed with work, the new lead position, and schooling at the moment. I know it is a season and only temporary. I don't want to look to the future all the time. I know it is vital to stay in the present as much as possible (especially when I feel like the girls are in their twilight with us). The program is 18 months and I have a little more than a year left. I can do this.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Hit:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Plackers Grin No More cheap and disposable mouth guards. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Miss:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I bought some M. Barc Sandalwood Vanilla hair shampoo at Kohls in a rush. I used it and it felt.... off. Too thick, kinda dry. Weird smell. Turns out it was pet shampoo. Yeah. Do not recommend. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Low:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The quickness at which winter break flies by. Christmas was chill this year. I didn't put up all my decor and the girls chose a tiny tree this year so I only needed about 1/4 of the ornaments I usually put up. It was nice. How is this low turning into a high? I don't know. Hm. My low is that my chickens are not laying eggs. They have been on strike for a couple months now between molting and winter starting. There. Buying eggs when you have chickens. Who are spoiled. A low.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">High:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Saving my wildflowers, herbs and some veggies from the freeze. This time I insulated them with tons of moss and then covered them with blankets and many survived! Woot!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">How was your December? How was 2022? It was a great year for me overall. I got to see my sister, her husband and baby in Belgium. I got to see my other sister and her husband in Texas. I got a promotion. The girls did well in school. Toddles is still around. I got to be outside. I grew enough green beans to cook and eat. I found some thrifting treasures. Tell me about yours.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p>TheRedolentMermaidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12025330454820306972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2810618299009561680.post-38363509849556900602022-10-31T07:00:00.001-04:002022-10-31T07:00:00.201-04:00Ebb & Flow October<p style="text-align: center;"><i>The highs and the lows of the month.</i></p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDypN63KSBK-D4idX_l4YOw8pzrsu3dfM8Vcuchyro6Ye-Io4z2pk-2Zsm0RFdrhoM97vqbA-L-6J1I9-HFmaQ9DMvEgTJwxiqas4_YgfbCqL279Bw9S4Uj_r_QVapbxUw6T-Yjnl4b67RZh-TGIZcGgWby54eDIz6k6FvARWc17Q_YUKamnGjz9fv/s2901/20220618-DSC_0179.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1929" data-original-width="2901" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDypN63KSBK-D4idX_l4YOw8pzrsu3dfM8Vcuchyro6Ye-Io4z2pk-2Zsm0RFdrhoM97vqbA-L-6J1I9-HFmaQ9DMvEgTJwxiqas4_YgfbCqL279Bw9S4Uj_r_QVapbxUw6T-Yjnl4b67RZh-TGIZcGgWby54eDIz6k6FvARWc17Q_YUKamnGjz9fv/w640-h426/20220618-DSC_0179.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /> Perfume:<p></p><p style="text-align: center;">MoonaLisa Alexandria and Solstice Scents Vanilla Pipe Tobacco</p><p style="text-align: center;">Perfume Oil:</p><p style="text-align: center;">Arcana Wildcraft Cake Lust and MoonaLisa Strega</p><p style="text-align: center;">Lotion:</p><p style="text-align: center;">Cosmic Cleanse Magnesium Body Creme Unscented (I put lavender and peppermint oils in it)</p><p style="text-align: center;">Skincare:</p><p style="text-align: center;">Blood Moon Botanica Moon Dew and Luminous Glow facial oil combined morning and night. Britton is having a shop update November 11th-12th.</p><p style="text-align: center;">Lip Balm:</p><p style="text-align: center;">Evergreen by Firebird</p><p style="text-align: center;">Candle:</p><p style="text-align: center;">Bath and Body Works Marshmallow Fireside</p><p style="text-align: center;">Wax:</p><p style="text-align: center;">Candles From the Keeping Room Potpourri Spice</p><p style="text-align: center;">Incense:</p><p style="text-align: center;">Moss Garden by Shoyeido (smells like vanilla ice cream to my students)</p><p style="text-align: center;">Work Bag:</p><p style="text-align: center;">Tote #2 by Siren Co. (still absolutely obsessing over it)</p><p style="text-align: center;">Bra:</p><p style="text-align: center;">Whiskey Dog Wares bralette, freaking comfy as all get out.</p><p style="text-align: center;">Eating:</p><p style="text-align: center;">Boar's Head Sweet Chili Garlic hummus</p><p style="text-align: center;">Drinking:</p><p style="text-align: center;">Dram sparkling water with or without CBD</p><p style="text-align: center;">Listening:</p><p style="text-align: center;">Twenty One Pilots Scaled and Icy album</p><p style="text-align: center;">Watching:</p><p style="text-align: center;">Breaking Bad for the first time through, new episodes of British Baking Show and Unsolved Mysteries</p><p style="text-align: center;">Reading:</p><p style="text-align: center;">Completed reading challenge and pretty much reading school work right now. Everything Maria Montessori.</p><p style="text-align: center;">Awaiting:</p><p style="text-align: center;">The holidays, small celebrations, Thanksgiving dinner, fires in the fireplace, winter gardening, bonfires, that sort of thing.</p><p style="text-align: center;">Dreading:</p><p style="text-align: center;">Making my eye doctor appointment for the 1,000th time. Kept getting pushed back due to unexpected meetings at work, the hurricane, and now... not sure when I will get to it. And I need glasses for the first time I think. Blurry vision life.</p><p style="text-align: center;">Hit:</p><p style="text-align: center;">Old lady time.... Plackers Grind No More Night Guard. I crack my teeth and fillings from night time teeth grinding if I don't wear a mouth guard. These aren't awkward in my mouth and don't hurt me. And are cheap.</p><p style="text-align: center;">Miss:</p><p style="text-align: center;">Tieks ballet flats. I fell for the hype and bought some but they are not comfortable and I regret it.</p><p style="text-align: center;">Low:</p><p style="text-align: center;">Feeling stretched. I added a leadership position at work to my plate but then other things happened and now I need take my training sooner than I anticipated. So I am taking my ESOL class, Montessori classes, and juggling the daily job and the extra position all at once. I know it will pass. My ESOL class will be done by Christmas. My Montessori training is 18 months. My leadership position is a 3 year tenure. I can do this. The girls promised to help me cook. Adam will give me grace. I just need to get the hang of it and be ok giving up my relaxing time. My reading. My gardening. Just for a bit. Just a little. </p><p style="text-align: center;">High:</p><p style="text-align: center;">I got to see my sister and my brother-in-law and my niece over the summer and I am still riding that high. Adam, the girls and I talk about it all the time. Thankful we were able to make it happen. I am also happy that I have been able to see some birds, the foxes, and an owl in our backyard.</p><p style="text-align: center;">How have you been doing? And hits or misses? What are you wearing? Smelling? Watching on TV? How is your life going?</p>TheRedolentMermaidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12025330454820306972noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2810618299009561680.post-65903483445344687342022-10-29T07:00:00.001-04:002022-10-29T07:00:00.190-04:002022 Reading Challenge Completed<p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaKeTYjnCwaf8sLVzk6lfbivVUdJCkRp3pWwyurNDgunE7gaIQ7ij1cBIE7un2ZgYKzlpyzY6hLBrRCsiZO-P5FrdeuUqY3jbsgSZUASVLvfvu2gX4GFLsusKLRWd9f2zfDGKvx5rSPPSrq777h0IEt1V5ZN9B7AoPrPJAWhpfr47YzjNCghFYca0v/s2160/9575D13C-7300-4596-B99E-02480C064D55.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2160" data-original-width="2160" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaKeTYjnCwaf8sLVzk6lfbivVUdJCkRp3pWwyurNDgunE7gaIQ7ij1cBIE7un2ZgYKzlpyzY6hLBrRCsiZO-P5FrdeuUqY3jbsgSZUASVLvfvu2gX4GFLsusKLRWd9f2zfDGKvx5rSPPSrq777h0IEt1V5ZN9B7AoPrPJAWhpfr47YzjNCghFYca0v/w640-h640/9575D13C-7300-4596-B99E-02480C064D55.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">This was a year for reading once again. The minute the covers met each other for the last time, my hands found a new set of covers to part and explore. Little could I know that this was the surge before the drought. The next 18 months will be filled with text books and required readings. I will still find time to read for pleasure and I would love to make another challenge with my friend Jay, but I doubt I will make this much progress. But who knows! Maybe short stories will count.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"> I keep my reviews short and the rating system is as follows: </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><span style="color: red;">*</span>- Meh, you could skip it.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><span style="color: red;">**</span>- Not bad, you might enjoy it.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><span style="color: red;">***</span>- Loved it! I recommend you give it a whirl.</span></div><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"> <span style="background-color: white; color: #134f5c;">1. Join the Resistance- whether subverting Nazis in WWII-era France, opposing a current oppressive state or ideology, or fighting the patriarchy in a dystopian future, be a rebel with a cause.</span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white;"><u>I, Tituba, Black Witch of Salem</u> by Maryse Conde is written by a French novelist from Guatemala who explores slavery and colonialism. She gives Tituba a voice here and does a phenomenal job of it.</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #134f5c;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: red;">**</span></span></p><div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><div style="color: #134f5c; text-align: center;">2. The lost art of handwriting- choose a book with the title written as script.</div><div style="color: #134f5c; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><u>Changeling </u>by Philippa Gregory has been on my shelf for ages. I finally got around to reading this story about a young couple who investigate evil in the name of the Pope in Italy in 1453. There is magic, secret cults, and constant adventure, but the characters felt flat and I was never truly engaged. I had the second and third books but didn't feel the need to read them. <span style="color: red;">*</span></div><div style="color: #134f5c; text-align: center;"><br /></div></span></span><p style="background-color: white; color: #333333;"></p><div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; text-align: center;"><p style="color: #333333; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">3. Daughters- explore the complex sibling relationships so often a theme in literature.</span></span></p><p style="color: #333333; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></p><p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><u>Flowers in the Attic</u> by V.C. Andrews has been on my TBR list quite some time. I finally tracked it down at a used book store and the horror did not disappoint. Talk about complex sibling and daughter relationships. Yikes. <span style="color: red;">***</span></span></span></p><p style="color: #333333; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></p><div style="color: #333333;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">4. Atomic Elements- book with an element from the periodic table in the title (carbon, oxygen, gold, silver, neon...)</span></span></div><div style="color: #333333;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><u>Banners of Gold</u> by Pamela Kaufman is actually a second book in a series, but it was easy to read as a stand alone. Set during the Crusades and the time of King Richard, it had the potential to be enchanting, but was rather silly. The verbiage got on my nerves and the heroine was namby-pamby. <span style="color: red;">*</span></span></span></div><div style="color: #333333;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="color: #333333;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuMoU2DRh69OuqjtCjC7ezBXIJ9p-v_0wRXU_1EkdoIsqLPL3BcxN4O0_CnAJAvHeJlRzRAMVPiGZ989apd0PBmh5qxRKkF9NM4HHcVpSr_s7x2uu9JfoVH3Z_to5SXxqwkapXi1SKceMsYnzjvlAz8CkzHl8vPFaSgp9gLjZa0n29wnNFlhHCspVT/s2168/BE8479DE-9E16-40C5-A9D6-70727544895C.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2168" data-original-width="2168" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuMoU2DRh69OuqjtCjC7ezBXIJ9p-v_0wRXU_1EkdoIsqLPL3BcxN4O0_CnAJAvHeJlRzRAMVPiGZ989apd0PBmh5qxRKkF9NM4HHcVpSr_s7x2uu9JfoVH3Z_to5SXxqwkapXi1SKceMsYnzjvlAz8CkzHl8vPFaSgp9gLjZa0n29wnNFlhHCspVT/w640-h640/BE8479DE-9E16-40C5-A9D6-70727544895C.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="color: #333333;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">5. Mist, haze, or fog-like cover.</span></span></div><div style="color: #333333;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><u>Evidence of Things Unseen</u> by Marianna Wiggins was a comet to the heart. A love story that melds science, illumination and human nature into a finely crafted tale that spans generations. If you only read one book from this list, let it be this one. I would give it four stars. Heck. I will. <span style="color: red;">****</span></span></span></div><div style="color: #333333;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="color: #333333;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">6. Reuse, recycle, regift- a thrifted book.</span></span></div><div style="color: #333333;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><u>The Twilight Wife</u> by A. J. Banner is a thriller about a woman who has a diving accident and how the resulting amnesia is throwing a pall of suspicion over her marriage. I just didn't really care what happened. Never bought in. <span style="color: red;">*</span></span></div><div style="color: #333333;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><p style="color: #333333; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">7. Back to the future- bridge time and distance with a dual timeline narrative.</span></span></p><p style="color: #333333; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></p><p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><u>The Fortune Teller</u> by Gwendolyn Womack is a tale of mysticism and relics, where a tarot deck spans the past and the present and is mysteriously important. It was a decent story for a fun quick read, but nothing ground breaking. <span style="color: red;">**</span></span></span></p><p style="color: #333333; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></p><p style="color: #333333; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-align: start;"></p><div style="color: #333333;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">8. Neurodiversity- seek to gain a better understanding of mental health and the diverse abilities of those who process the world differently, in fiction or non-fiction.</span></span></div><div style="color: #333333;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><u>Me Talk Pretty Someday</u> by David Sedaris. I usually enjoy David's tongue-in-cheek memoirs, but this one was not one of my favorites. David is a gay middle aged guy with OCD and a jaded past who shares snippets of his childhood through his adulthood. He often makes me laugh out loud, however I barely smirked with this one. <span style="color: red;">*</span></span></span></div><div style="color: #333333;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="color: #333333;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio9XkZuDRlE1oEQ-zxEIUHdo8CtQrqF41-Pc-VkMQS_kJ1xYufsi_4ZEsMKCRZWbnJKQ7TSSQXLgXj28lI3TL4Qsn_5NACAZTj1YS28YRkXrA3RpnZCAvvcTe2K8dl01zo7th4uLeigoFgBQIZ1ntMWqaxJg3mHa-S2QjLjlyuoA6ZLn6oKh_I5OJ5/s2168/AB5D8223-8D0D-4528-BB66-20E1EE4BD5B8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2168" data-original-width="2168" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio9XkZuDRlE1oEQ-zxEIUHdo8CtQrqF41-Pc-VkMQS_kJ1xYufsi_4ZEsMKCRZWbnJKQ7TSSQXLgXj28lI3TL4Qsn_5NACAZTj1YS28YRkXrA3RpnZCAvvcTe2K8dl01zo7th4uLeigoFgBQIZ1ntMWqaxJg3mHa-S2QjLjlyuoA6ZLn6oKh_I5OJ5/w640-h640/AB5D8223-8D0D-4528-BB66-20E1EE4BD5B8.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><span><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><div><span style="color: #45818e;">9. Protagonist over 50.</span></div><div style="color: #333333;"><br /></div><div><u>How To Stop Time</u> by Matt Haig definitely counts as a protagonist over 50, the lead character looks 41 but is centuries old. And he isn't even a vampire. It is a crafty and clever story. It took me on an enjoyable journey. Worth checking out for sure. <span style="color: red;">***</span></div><div style="color: #333333;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizVUMhf9_X4UxZRtjyCutQxC_QCuas4IW31hxJA5-iwgqbxiHBHcgH2C8g_61cyPCMBu2qNf4NXR3BQDC2LxHgmi8ruWLV-82zD1uCYOdg4sjM7USex1dK_JTTg6QE3bN1oRNnaiIRQbHVdJUrzyjTTK8nqPweT5NulK2f-YWhx91C1OlUTTMwKBif/s2089/F16C2331-55C1-4310-BD79-4A06E2DBC4C8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2089" data-original-width="2089" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizVUMhf9_X4UxZRtjyCutQxC_QCuas4IW31hxJA5-iwgqbxiHBHcgH2C8g_61cyPCMBu2qNf4NXR3BQDC2LxHgmi8ruWLV-82zD1uCYOdg4sjM7USex1dK_JTTg6QE3bN1oRNnaiIRQbHVdJUrzyjTTK8nqPweT5NulK2f-YWhx91C1OlUTTMwKBif/w640-h640/F16C2331-55C1-4310-BD79-4A06E2DBC4C8.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="color: #333333;"><br /></div><div><span style="color: #45818e;">10. Summon your familiar- read from an animal character's perspective or from its close human companion.</span></div><div style="color: #333333;"><br /></div><div><u>The Gorgon and Other Beastly Tales</u> by Tanith Lee is a compilation of several short fantastical stories. Many involve tales from the beasts' point of view. I fell down a Tanith Lee rabbit hole and don't regret it for one minute. I love her Bradbury-esque feminine take on the surreal. <span style="color: red;">***</span></div><div style="color: #333333;"><br /></div></span></span><p style="color: #333333;"></p><p style="color: #333333; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">11. Book maze-get lost in a twisty plot that keeps you on edge.</span></span></p><p style="color: #333333; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></p><p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><u>In A Dark, Dark Wood</u> by Ruth Ware is a twisty plot for sure. Another one of those popular thrillers that keep you guessing and read like a sprint. This one revolves around a lonely outcast and her unexpected invitation to a bachelorette party in the woods. <span style="color: red;">***</span></span></span></p><p style="color: #333333; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></p><p style="color: #333333; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn0EJAj6Jn8o7fR5ByoJzbQMsyBFbDPVPFx2kAhLIY2v-XqPcoDCmvFCDWRc1e9OY-Gosc9t4OsaeOM6ATW8qqlEWTjwxJsu8fKHv9y21jQL8m6SopossaGoCczK6zQQ5S9ACBxZ4tTdYJcPLl2gkCp4tJWo-MKUiCCs6i1k1AQL_uyfOkHOQ_6Y66/s1472/B3EC7C4E-2620-42C5-8B27-CB4B6CBDEA59.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1472" data-original-width="828" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn0EJAj6Jn8o7fR5ByoJzbQMsyBFbDPVPFx2kAhLIY2v-XqPcoDCmvFCDWRc1e9OY-Gosc9t4OsaeOM6ATW8qqlEWTjwxJsu8fKHv9y21jQL8m6SopossaGoCczK6zQQ5S9ACBxZ4tTdYJcPLl2gkCp4tJWo-MKUiCCs6i1k1AQL_uyfOkHOQ_6Y66/w360-h640/B3EC7C4E-2620-42C5-8B27-CB4B6CBDEA59.JPG" width="360" /></a></span></div><span style="color: #134f5c;"><br /><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span><p></p><p style="color: #333333; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">12. Heartsqueezer.</span></span></p><p style="color: #333333; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></p><p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><u>Bastard Out of Carolina</u> by Dorothy Allison didn't simply squeeze my heart, but mashed it to a pulp. This tale may be extremely triggering to some, so beware. It was worth the gritty read for me though. <span style="color: red;">***</span></span></span></p><p style="color: #333333; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></p><p style="color: #333333; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrNJP03cYPGIfFUOXEAbl3bRVq4XlpX5PUm5dg321Jq7yl39Zfd-xCMoRWtvNM3SIg7DMQqHBuokQ_g0Fq-qaX1tapVALGuc1-Pkf2App7oz9GcRmj4jzDkJ6WX9KEA63iyKRLvSS088wUNJWGuqIuH1VmSRKMa0mUD2Qbjw5YU9r37_jMvlzNa4Cj/s2160/595C86C0-E514-4366-AEFE-5CAE10212FF4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2160" data-original-width="2160" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrNJP03cYPGIfFUOXEAbl3bRVq4XlpX5PUm5dg321Jq7yl39Zfd-xCMoRWtvNM3SIg7DMQqHBuokQ_g0Fq-qaX1tapVALGuc1-Pkf2App7oz9GcRmj4jzDkJ6WX9KEA63iyKRLvSS088wUNJWGuqIuH1VmSRKMa0mUD2Qbjw5YU9r37_jMvlzNa4Cj/w640-h640/595C86C0-E514-4366-AEFE-5CAE10212FF4.JPG" width="640" /></a></span></div><span style="color: #134f5c;"><br /><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span><p></p><div style="color: #333333;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">13. Inner child- pick up a children's or youth book.</span></span></div><div style="color: #333333;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><u>The Book of Three</u> by Llyod Alexander is a children's fantasy book about a boy who was supposed to be the caretaker of a prophesy telling pig, who somehow got loose. It was charming and I could see myself reading the rest of the tales on day. <span style="color: red;">**</span></span></span></div><div style="color: #333333;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="color: #333333;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxKJpcv4UfyXSmGA8b6AkXck5ikzadS9RrABXLDZNnRxW1dhcg8p6VfqtfytWmZTJw7AhxuyGxwpHniTp7Z0lyoCUx0QTrtBQI-F-msNG2FoPdZnqi3l3kWpKg5aWIsfb6yJGFNOMUao8Rq2MqC8FL5KFUDft9aiAT3Qa7z0Tqn5tKpSCox_eSFVJm/s1880/BD7E2337-99AA-4342-9754-89FC1A593D44.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1880" data-original-width="1880" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxKJpcv4UfyXSmGA8b6AkXck5ikzadS9RrABXLDZNnRxW1dhcg8p6VfqtfytWmZTJw7AhxuyGxwpHniTp7Z0lyoCUx0QTrtBQI-F-msNG2FoPdZnqi3l3kWpKg5aWIsfb6yJGFNOMUao8Rq2MqC8FL5KFUDft9aiAT3Qa7z0Tqn5tKpSCox_eSFVJm/w640-h640/BD7E2337-99AA-4342-9754-89FC1A593D44.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="color: #333333;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">14. Memoir or Biography- dive into someone else's journey.</span></span></div><div style="color: #333333;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><u>The Diary of a Young Girl</u> by Anne Frank. Yes, this really was my very first time reading it. It broke my heart and refreshed my soul all at once. It reminded me of the inner thoughts and feelings of my own girls and myself. It crushed me that this vibrant soul endured so much. I will probably re-read it again in the future. <span style="color: red;">***</span></span></span></div><div style="color: #333333;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="color: #333333;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKGigBR_z-ZAlpZEqGOpcpOAJ07cBEKv4vJtyoSCX6QTN5P1kOti_jyGrQYARjRp1jJy-wiov_nDlbgmf8zY96yLR5UPDPeMMf2S86ws7wGchZnsSBOfTKzz4BYm9lzH-XNRy4c6DXrlKrKOzKrLRucT8UfRKQvmIerCTnXyktY9NeaVtbCqnEOz-T/s2160/1BB6BDB2-5B13-4E48-9473-3E2F543D2C96.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2160" data-original-width="2160" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKGigBR_z-ZAlpZEqGOpcpOAJ07cBEKv4vJtyoSCX6QTN5P1kOti_jyGrQYARjRp1jJy-wiov_nDlbgmf8zY96yLR5UPDPeMMf2S86ws7wGchZnsSBOfTKzz4BYm9lzH-XNRy4c6DXrlKrKOzKrLRucT8UfRKQvmIerCTnXyktY9NeaVtbCqnEOz-T/w640-h640/1BB6BDB2-5B13-4E48-9473-3E2F543D2C96.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="color: #333333;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">15. Opening sentence hook that reels you in.</span></span></div><div style="color: #333333;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><u>Verity</u> by Colleen Hoover was literally everywhere I turned. I figured there had to be something to it. Another popular thriller with a spin. It started strong but then petered out for me. I could see things coming and didn't really buy into it. It wasn't terrible, but it was a case of over hype for me. <span style="color: red;">**</span></span></div><div style="color: #333333;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="color: #333333;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPYub7wEOOvmDHBfgjUwq_ezNSdA4XToazXumicpqrTWoaYFMSTKN4MPy_HmomHnXlpcKOF4IR4bOBbJ82F0fyKUokodGs14NhKG5joDO3yr29UAJnLJJW5vhNARVya4Dq6lW4R0Cqo9SMzaN1ULPWuM9XFtP3i-ljb7FVsj_SSJee4-tc71c-3bqY/s1472/5124E24D-5000-455E-AA4C-2B442128AE7E.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1472" data-original-width="828" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPYub7wEOOvmDHBfgjUwq_ezNSdA4XToazXumicpqrTWoaYFMSTKN4MPy_HmomHnXlpcKOF4IR4bOBbJ82F0fyKUokodGs14NhKG5joDO3yr29UAJnLJJW5vhNARVya4Dq6lW4R0Cqo9SMzaN1ULPWuM9XFtP3i-ljb7FVsj_SSJee4-tc71c-3bqY/w360-h640/5124E24D-5000-455E-AA4C-2B442128AE7E.JPG" width="360" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="color: #333333;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">16. Green. Because it is an amazing color.</span></span></div><div style="color: #333333;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><u>Backwoods Witchcraft</u> by Jake Richards was a fun and enlightening read. I love the Appalachian tales of folklore and magic and this fed into that a bit. I liked the merging of Christianity with the paganism, the gardening songs and the down-home perspective. <span style="color: red;">**</span></span></span></div><div style="color: #333333;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="color: #333333;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijQdHBW1tEV-qU0VCgBIwpQk3YELOUaPD3igfYqgIsqOsqjRXBZ6gx_5u3qSH6VOv7jOOoYtuCLxcodzmSiQkmAy1GFSFa40wcdOmWZBEQSiT-iqRnEKRVUQc104LIh-UrNi7Lqkk2_nyfG38kkwAai7tI1xukQJ5N2WoXG2GsztiY_TgacwTOzbvM/s2119/A907A1F9-20CC-4D55-B8D8-C3568BBA5503.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2119" data-original-width="2119" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijQdHBW1tEV-qU0VCgBIwpQk3YELOUaPD3igfYqgIsqOsqjRXBZ6gx_5u3qSH6VOv7jOOoYtuCLxcodzmSiQkmAy1GFSFa40wcdOmWZBEQSiT-iqRnEKRVUQc104LIh-UrNi7Lqkk2_nyfG38kkwAai7tI1xukQJ5N2WoXG2GsztiY_TgacwTOzbvM/w640-h640/A907A1F9-20CC-4D55-B8D8-C3568BBA5503.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><p style="color: #333333; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">17. Read your bliss- any topic or genre that makes you happy. </span></span></p><p style="color: #333333; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></p><p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><u>My Best Friend's Exorcism</u> by Grady Hendrix was a Barnes & Noble pick by my oldest. She saw that rocking 80's cover and fell head over heels for it. The tale ended up being pretty awesome. It was a spooky story about a possessed teen and how her best friend deals with the fall out. <span style="color: red;">***</span></span></span></p><p style="color: #333333; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></p><p style="color: #333333; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-align: start;"></p><div style="color: #333333;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">18. We might not get out of here alive- Survival fiction or non, fantasy or reality.</span></span></div><div style="color: #333333;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><u>12 Years A Slave</u> by Solomon Northup was a tale of survival that was harrowing yet hopeful all the same. It is the true story of a free black man who was drugged and kidnapped and sold into slavery and his quest to regain his freedom and his family. <span style="color: red;">***</span></span></span></div><div style="color: #333333;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><span><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><div><span style="color: #45818e;">19. Book of secrets- whether the international intrigue of a spy novel abounds, or dark family secrets are waiting to be unlocked; there's destined to be subterfuge afoot.</span></div><div style="color: #333333;"><br /></div><div><u>The Likeness</u> by Tana French is from a series that follows several different detectives who all work or have worked together. They easily read as stand alone novels. This one follows a female detective who has to work undercover and live with a group of suspects but gets sucked too far into her role of deception. Quite thrilling. <span style="color: red;">**</span></div><div style="color: #333333;"><br /></div></span></span><p style="color: #333333;"></p><p style="color: #333333; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">20. Gothic horror- I'm not saying it's haunted, but there's something going on in with house...</span></span></p><p style="color: #333333; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></p><p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><u>Devil's Day</u> by Andrew Michael Hurley is British gothic horror in a folktale setting. Andrew does a phenomenal job of creating a slow burning spooky mind game. Is there foul play? Are the characters unstable? Are there other forces at work? I have thoroughly enjoyed all three of his books so far and highly recommend them for his melancholy English settings and maze-like relationships. <span style="color: red;">***</span></span></span></p><p style="color: #333333; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></p><div style="color: #333333;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">21. Missing link- a book that you want to read to finish up or continue a series.</span></span></div><div style="color: #333333;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="color: #333333;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><u style="color: black;">The Hidden Palace</u><span style="color: black;"> by Helene Wecker is the sequel to a much beloved story, </span><u style="color: black;">The Golem and the Jinni</u><span style="color: black;">. It carries on the tale of two seemingly mismatched lovers and how they navigate a world of humans and misunderstandings. </span><span style="color: red;">***</span></span></span></div><div style="color: #333333;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="color: #333333;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">22. Hearth & Home- nesting, homesteading, tending.</span></span></div><div style="color: #333333;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><u>Old Wives' Lore for Gardeners</u> by Maureen and Bridget Boland was a fun and fast read. It is a teeny tiny book about burying things in the night, planting by the moon, and all sorts of silly yet timeless things. <span style="color: red;">***</span></span></div><div style="color: #333333;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="color: #333333;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF5v8v9J9l-MpxbW2W5zLOafpjrEw1ziKCjRpJWwA2TwMHobnAG_iJ2j1XaKG7NsuhJKjU3Qcc49ypT5FLbekvc1qNPs5XzOYVJOljk_SfE5kiTcO-4hEXxzp8OLurV51Lswqig64OqIDlbP9Bu_u-WlBBW5ZiMdI1lkc_WFor0nfhpozp-mP-i4zl/s2160/8C9D0BB7-0D57-42FC-8147-6A83EAFEFB32.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2160" data-original-width="2160" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF5v8v9J9l-MpxbW2W5zLOafpjrEw1ziKCjRpJWwA2TwMHobnAG_iJ2j1XaKG7NsuhJKjU3Qcc49ypT5FLbekvc1qNPs5XzOYVJOljk_SfE5kiTcO-4hEXxzp8OLurV51Lswqig64OqIDlbP9Bu_u-WlBBW5ZiMdI1lkc_WFor0nfhpozp-mP-i4zl/w640-h640/8C9D0BB7-0D57-42FC-8147-6A83EAFEFB32.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="color: #333333;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">23. Memento Mori- death, grief, mourning.</span></span></div><div style="color: #333333;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><u>From The Dust Returned</u> by Ray Bradbury is a collection of short stories that has been sewed neatly into a novel that follows a supernatural family and how they navigate death and life along with their adopted human child. <span style="color: red;">***</span></span></span></div><div style="color: #333333;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><p style="color: #333333; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">24. Booktok, Booktube, or Bookstagram-discover what real readers recommend, and find out if <i>that</i> book is worthy of all the hype.</span></span></p><p style="color: #333333; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></p><p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><u>Year of the Witch</u> by Temperence Alden came from a podcast I listen to. I quiet enjoy following along with Invoking Witchcraft with J. Allen Cross and Britton Boyd, and they often do guest interviews and one was Temperence. I picked up her book and it was a quick read about some basics regarding the Wheel of the Year. I did find it sparse and very introductory, probably fitting for some but I didn't really glean much from it. <span style="color: red;">*</span></span></p><p style="color: #333333; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></p><p style="color: #333333; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">25. #Ownvoices- books about characters from underrepresented/marginalized groups in which the author shares the same identity. </span></span></p><p style="color: #333333; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></p><p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><u>An American Marriage</u> by Tayari Jones is the story of a black marriage in middle class America and how culture, norms, and expectations weave their influences over it. It is written by a black author and provides an eye opening perspective. <span style="color: red;">**</span></span></span></p><p style="color: #333333; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></p><p style="color: #333333; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">26. The moon as muse- inspired by the moon; depicting moonlight, the night sky, or heavenly bodies on the cover. </span></span></p><p style="color: #333333; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></p><p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><u>Turtle Moon</u> by Alice Hoffman. There are a few authors that I will forever pick up if I see their names upon a book spine: Bradbury, Atwood, Poe, and Hoffman. I love Alice's magical and lyrical take on life. This is the story set in Florida about a recently divorced mom and her teenage son adapting to this foreign, sometimes savage peninsula swollen with alligators, mosquitoes, and a moon that can induce madness.<span style="color: red;">***</span></span></span></p><p style="color: #333333; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></p><p style="color: #333333; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">27. Never have I ever...-read a book about ___. Fill-in the blank with a new topic or genre.</span></span></p><p style="color: #333333; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></p><p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><u>Gudrun</u> by Alma Johanna Koeing was a random book I picked up in St. Augustine at a tiny used book store. It is an ancient tale based off of a German epic (I believe?) and follows along a royal family for a few generations and how their choices in love and battle unfold upon one another. <span style="color: red;">***</span></span></span></p><p style="color: #333333; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></p><p style="color: #333333; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-align: start;"></p><div style="color: #333333;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">28. Honoring ancestors- reading deeper about native lands or personal lineage.</span></span></div><div style="color: #333333;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><u>Song of the Harp: Old Welsh Folktales</u> by Linda Barrett Osborne intrigued me as I didn't really know much about Welsh folktales and I am about a quarter Welsh. These were translated tales and I found them charming, strange, and unique, of a bit rushed feeling. <span style="color: red;">**</span></span></span></div><div style="color: #333333;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><span><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><div><span style="color: #45818e;">29. Dark Academia- An academic aesthetic that can be found in many genres, including contemporary fic, historical, mystery, fantasy, or horror. Book Riot categorizes DA as this: "The definition of it can be broad, but it requires some kind of an academic setting and a dark undertone or overtone to its story."</span></div><div style="color: #333333;"><br /></div><div><u>Ninth House</u> by Leigh Bardugo seemed to be everywhere on the internet. I actually googled "dark academia" for this prompt and this book was always the first choice. It had great marketing, what can I say? It follows the tale of hidden occult clubs in underground Yale and how an unlikely outsider is sent to infiltrate them. It made for an interesting read and I will definitely read the second book when it comes out. <span style="color: red;">***</span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqVwANhoo0aLrh5N8_OVdcUldCkYthBIspMvgNMK8HmM6aUDAlD_uIQ4s-3J3fAFIDHnLx1IqdNaIDwWG7XD-nwzEQFwDKZyH1y7yEd7VBj6d46faS5WsUTppc0A3A3Ry5kFcnnuAO4iI7I403_8HbaTqnZbRPyB0RImNR7lYwr8bAlZwt8jhkY9ph/s1472/AEA15BE9-CA5B-40A7-AB25-C5E00BE51870.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1472" data-original-width="828" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqVwANhoo0aLrh5N8_OVdcUldCkYthBIspMvgNMK8HmM6aUDAlD_uIQ4s-3J3fAFIDHnLx1IqdNaIDwWG7XD-nwzEQFwDKZyH1y7yEd7VBj6d46faS5WsUTppc0A3A3Ry5kFcnnuAO4iI7I403_8HbaTqnZbRPyB0RImNR7lYwr8bAlZwt8jhkY9ph/w360-h640/AEA15BE9-CA5B-40A7-AB25-C5E00BE51870.JPG" width="360" /></a></div></div></span></span><p style="color: #333333;"></p><p style="color: #333333; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">30. Forged in friendship. A story about companionship.</span></span></p><p style="color: #333333; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></p><p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><u>The Bird King</u> by G. Willow Wilson fits this bill perfectly. It follows a young concubine and her gay male best friend who has the gift of making any map he draws come to life. They have to escape their kingdom once his lifestyle comes to light and they aim for the shelter of an island born of myths. <span style="color: red;">***</span></span></span></p><p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><span style="color: red;"><br /></span></span></span></p><p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD2LCBAj36eBEKJhDYYr7z7gez5GiRjoCc5Ej5dPIP1lpYVoGUdY9-2ZEnIN8OK82HdIsfQP55vIYUkkMOmy5VISKYMYhD96VKplmApqwPjRIGNJOVT6NEqzG_cObuC0PXyCFFOZ5qqhmCXPK6fUBZSB2BwUnDnl0-CFvt5esW6SN1Gh0E6e7VProh/s2133/D1B8AEE7-FDBE-434D-8D27-CEE8FFC58308.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2133" data-original-width="2133" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD2LCBAj36eBEKJhDYYr7z7gez5GiRjoCc5Ej5dPIP1lpYVoGUdY9-2ZEnIN8OK82HdIsfQP55vIYUkkMOmy5VISKYMYhD96VKplmApqwPjRIGNJOVT6NEqzG_cObuC0PXyCFFOZ5qqhmCXPK6fUBZSB2BwUnDnl0-CFvt5esW6SN1Gh0E6e7VProh/w640-h640/D1B8AEE7-FDBE-434D-8D27-CEE8FFC58308.JPG" width="640" /></a></span></span></div><span><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; text-align: center;"><span><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div>I had fun reading this year! I also had a great time adding to my book collection and giving some away as I read them. Books are my favorite souvenirs and I certainly picked a few up. So far I have read 58 books and I hope to squeeze in a couple more before the year tuns over into a new one. </span></span></div><div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; text-align: center;"><span><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; text-align: center;"><span><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">Of these books, I must say it again, please do yourself a solid and read <u>Evidence of Things Unseen</u> if you enjoy a meaty well written novel. How has your year been going in the realm of reading? Any authors you have fallen in love with? Any books I should pick up?<br /><span style="color: red;"><br /></span></span></span><p></p></div>TheRedolentMermaidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12025330454820306972noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2810618299009561680.post-56080452723850194782022-07-31T07:00:00.002-04:002022-07-31T07:00:00.189-04:00Ebb & Flow: July 2022<p style="text-align: center;"> <i>The highs and lows of the month.</i></p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC8RE7_VXukG0d78udoAN0NfncEl2MgfGG8DJJdhXMVmAy2hB612oiYr4OTnv5ZrfIn-MXKTzr8aqXcF8OBHtdHfXHnV2Z0yyFw3QeKWg2J9h020ncObg84LksTKVI2rSpUUDAvP_XzM2pi85pTjgE28jjoVa9AeiDXfJQTTXt9mUBxTx-NV3NzX4K/s2829/20220612-DSC_0084.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1881" data-original-width="2829" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC8RE7_VXukG0d78udoAN0NfncEl2MgfGG8DJJdhXMVmAy2hB612oiYr4OTnv5ZrfIn-MXKTzr8aqXcF8OBHtdHfXHnV2Z0yyFw3QeKWg2J9h020ncObg84LksTKVI2rSpUUDAvP_XzM2pi85pTjgE28jjoVa9AeiDXfJQTTXt9mUBxTx-NV3NzX4K/w640-h426/20220612-DSC_0084.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Perfume:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Solstice Scents Headmaster (craving fall already)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Perfume Oil:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Arcana Wildcraft Oberon (best pine ever)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Scrub:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The Bathing Garden Magician's Bonfire</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Shampoo/Conditioner:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Future Primitive shampoo bar and conditioning hair rinse (in the scent Dusty Dogwood)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Soap:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Future Primitive Lagoon (sample sliver- very nice)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Lotion:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Cosmic Cleanse Magnesium Body Creme (unscented)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Candle:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Acorn Moon Mercantile solstice candle</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Wax:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Candles From the Keeping Room blend of Lemon Noel and Serendipity Marshmallow Delight</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Incense:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Exploring The Mother's Fragrances line of nag champas from India</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Reading:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">All the things. I cannot stop. I think it is my way of burying my head in the sand? Coping? Mental health maintenance? Ray Bradbury and Tanith Lee short stories have been devoured, poetry, novels and memoirs. I am only a few books away from finishing the reading challenge on here and my GoodReads number. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Listening:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Twenty One Pilots Scaled and Icy album (the vinyl is really cool on this one- crystal clear)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Watching:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Whatever spooky movies Savanna chooses, also Archive 81 on Netflix (hated the ending though). And Stranger Things of course. Scarlette actually went back and re-watched them all so I stuck around for that.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Drinking:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Three Spirit Drinks- Nightcap</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Eating:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">chocolate</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Doing:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Lighting incense and placing it on the edge of the pool while I swim, relax, and read.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Awaiting:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The start of a new school year. I go back to work very soon. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Dreading:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Not a dread but a nervousness about the future. A pressure of, ok, well yes. It is dread. A pressure of dread on the back of my neck and around my heart about teaching. All these laws. Shootings. The kids' futures. Their unrest. My inability to reach even my own sometimes. Feeling like a failure. Not knowing how things will mesh with new co-workers. Pressure. Pressure for sure. A weight. I was actually told over the phone last year, by a parent "I thought you were one of the better ones..." and it sucked. Real hard. But I promised myself I would take it one day at a time. And I need to make that my mantra. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Hit:<br />I think I have mentioned it before, but after a vicious twig ant (I always called them oak ants) attack while pulling weeds (invasive air potato vine) I used my Life Flower Bug Bite Elixir and found immediate relief. I swear this stuff really is magic. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Miss:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I miss my Walkman cassette player. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Low:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Everything the Supreme Court altered and destroyed. Monarchs. My girls' future. Attitudes towards teachers. So much. So much heaviness. It is hard to breathe sometimes.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">High:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Seeing my niece. Seeing my sister Lindsey and her husband Dustin. Seeing England. Scotland. Belgium. Seeing poppies. Cathedrals. Castles. Having the summer to spend with my girls and husband. Getting in a ton of books and even some friend time.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">How was your July? Are you craving fall or are you content to laze under the sun a bit more?</div><p></p>TheRedolentMermaidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12025330454820306972noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2810618299009561680.post-9750453496750484292022-07-30T07:00:00.001-04:002022-07-30T07:00:00.188-04:00Felin Lune Apothecary: Natural Deodorant Paste<p style="text-align: center;"> <br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKoIeMWWCm-mLlFfXg3kHi2rrRoxT4c8osJ7TbnKfvM8q2BoWhAiTW9iV85LU4eEvxT9WNtgw0rWaKkMJrKBYs917m-ixmacL5_PPdzEp35cFxAmgqZXu2WlT-eN4sjy0lc_HnOEuI4S4NjF_HzJI1HZhXdlrZgW31kKktN8DoWsUkwyyo3-wTiBt3/s2895/20220710-DSC_0024.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1925" data-original-width="2895" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKoIeMWWCm-mLlFfXg3kHi2rrRoxT4c8osJ7TbnKfvM8q2BoWhAiTW9iV85LU4eEvxT9WNtgw0rWaKkMJrKBYs917m-ixmacL5_PPdzEp35cFxAmgqZXu2WlT-eN4sjy0lc_HnOEuI4S4NjF_HzJI1HZhXdlrZgW31kKktN8DoWsUkwyyo3-wTiBt3/w640-h426/20220710-DSC_0024.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I have a holy grail all natural deodorant from Wild Roots Body Care but sadly it has not been restocked in quite some time. That put me back in the market for one I could more easily replace. I was scrolling through some indie groups online and saw a haul post from <a href="https://felinluneapothecary.com/" target="_blank">Felin Lune Apothecary</a> that included a deodorant paste. I quickly picked up a 2 ounce jar for $14 in the scent Garden Hippie (Ylang ylang, patchouli, orange, lavender, sandalwood, and jasmine essential oils). This paste is aluminum and baking soda free. It is soft, creamy yet firm, and putty-like. It spreads easily and melts beautifully into the skin. I have been using it for over a month now and I find that it neutralizes odor very well. It doesn't irritate my skin, it doesn't pill up, and it lasts all day. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir5AoV_Hv-Px4vXAIRcnx6nIIjgZi-XebuVxObIA1Zm-ppOnP47ZsQxMHEoBAUo2J4GRPuqvP6ch2qxXGtxEuX5XmObDL_0yTLmqfBwcPsvoKvbrOIHQ1GLN8j8ymLeDsb1ZXgU2pZ7eEQYbr4emIIB8omqran9xCMjFEN79IrsVU5M-uST5oPbkQB/s3008/20220710-DSC_0025.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir5AoV_Hv-Px4vXAIRcnx6nIIjgZi-XebuVxObIA1Zm-ppOnP47ZsQxMHEoBAUo2J4GRPuqvP6ch2qxXGtxEuX5XmObDL_0yTLmqfBwcPsvoKvbrOIHQ1GLN8j8ymLeDsb1ZXgU2pZ7eEQYbr4emIIB8omqran9xCMjFEN79IrsVU5M-uST5oPbkQB/w640-h426/20220710-DSC_0025.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It is my new holy grail. There are smaller one ounce travel tins for $8 that I plan on buying to try other scents too. I am looking forward to sampling other products as well. Have you tried anything from Felin Lune? </div><p></p>TheRedolentMermaidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12025330454820306972noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2810618299009561680.post-1499072987116019432022-07-29T07:00:00.017-04:002022-07-29T07:00:00.198-04:00Stone Roses Handmade Rosaries <p style="text-align: center;"> <br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM6KsQub2ESNe7nt9rUtzkevvRhr5HQ43Ry29eAFEPu_yiEv0UCJ0Lj0mFxq6WE7cYSOIIUKVrPzz9xi5W3ysI4MKJvo7U5H0ZHXq5YI3b1yG-LlCIKJucc4zEKcoJXCu_VDIZ48hGYbSZDdXtOJBiHEvRDvh8nI6CeBAZREGU4ccRnnEkLntuNvWo/s2728/20220710-DSC_0030.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1676" data-original-width="2728" height="394" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM6KsQub2ESNe7nt9rUtzkevvRhr5HQ43Ry29eAFEPu_yiEv0UCJ0Lj0mFxq6WE7cYSOIIUKVrPzz9xi5W3ysI4MKJvo7U5H0ZHXq5YI3b1yG-LlCIKJucc4zEKcoJXCu_VDIZ48hGYbSZDdXtOJBiHEvRDvh8nI6CeBAZREGU4ccRnnEkLntuNvWo/w640-h394/20220710-DSC_0030.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Kirsten, at <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/stoneroseshandmade?ref=shop_sugg" target="_blank">Stone Roses Handmade</a>, is a maker I discovered through following Britton (Archaic Honey/Blood Moon Botanica). In fact my first rosary bracelet came from a collaboration they did together, where Britton created a Holy Mother anointing oil for a crone memento mori bracelet that was sold as a set. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Kirsten creates rosaries, chaplets, and bracelets to honor a wide range of deities and saints. She utilizes stainless steel wire for durability, which I appreciate as I tend to be klutzy and these have held up beautifully. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Over time I have picked up three bracelets:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Crone Memento Mori- Black obsidian beads. Used to meditate on our mortality as a way of staying present to the moment.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Mary Magdalene- Red agate. Teachings about the balance between esoteric and exoteric spiritual practices, sexuality, and devotion.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Saint Joan of Arc- Garnets. Visionary, warrior, martyr, badass.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The bracelets were $40 each, but until Sunday everything is 20% off in her Etsy store, and are currently $32. Kirsten does customs as well.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgebexn4zb-3G1CXc_roUGiU_k9N5hJLtrJ-nlh2H5qOWoYFzAw106xIvG4pjE0vhcELbhTOajhl55pHIO_CnIAlalhinp8i0DB2q3Wex9kfXOZL7Mj-g8Hk05INjqYWMmp1zrE520gPnNcWss83SOMZDLTN4fdinhBy1hS0gAbsRFrkaVQSiGOlmtG/s3008/20220710-DSC_0032.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgebexn4zb-3G1CXc_roUGiU_k9N5hJLtrJ-nlh2H5qOWoYFzAw106xIvG4pjE0vhcELbhTOajhl55pHIO_CnIAlalhinp8i0DB2q3Wex9kfXOZL7Mj-g8Hk05INjqYWMmp1zrE520gPnNcWss83SOMZDLTN4fdinhBy1hS0gAbsRFrkaVQSiGOlmtG/w640-h426/20220710-DSC_0032.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Do you have any connections with a particular saint or deity? Are you drawn to any? How do you honor them?</div><p></p>TheRedolentMermaidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12025330454820306972noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2810618299009561680.post-84156375474167992642022-07-23T07:00:00.008-04:002022-07-23T07:00:00.188-04:00Siren Co.: Waxed Canvas Bags and Goods<p style="text-align: center;"> <br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinHlL7ymatCXK4KjO7nbO7A_6NTXpUhcEiiA_NDZ5yMAVWIq5jZuPqav012PEECBkpeqF9lGSAxYmL-o3r5EQvx8eHD2RwlAnw4Onnlw9yW0tbpH0A1kUeHBTeqaM9Mw8cqLT75YyYE7YUw0U9xs7PBtiZ0CsmmwbyHepS4K8Kg6s0-KDxYTc50iAV/s3008/20220722-DSC_0062.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3008" data-original-width="2000" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinHlL7ymatCXK4KjO7nbO7A_6NTXpUhcEiiA_NDZ5yMAVWIq5jZuPqav012PEECBkpeqF9lGSAxYmL-o3r5EQvx8eHD2RwlAnw4Onnlw9yW0tbpH0A1kUeHBTeqaM9Mw8cqLT75YyYE7YUw0U9xs7PBtiZ0CsmmwbyHepS4K8Kg6s0-KDxYTc50iAV/w266-h400/20220722-DSC_0062.jpg" width="266" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAtROKPfuA2epk8fUDsGXfqv4ANfkapC9cNIXaYXh5PxUt1KdZQtj8XWF2oavFl98sPtkwD4VlCGBv-awuXSNCB_3nuBeULjGsmcsMKci_UbWyRrKCZ-r2Zz8rHGtROOY5hkL1MhQQLCJaO0ml557GePKJfsSS341FFOR50elkH3tmkxOFdrDBmb3y/s2682/20220722-DSC_0063.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2682" data-original-width="1783" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAtROKPfuA2epk8fUDsGXfqv4ANfkapC9cNIXaYXh5PxUt1KdZQtj8XWF2oavFl98sPtkwD4VlCGBv-awuXSNCB_3nuBeULjGsmcsMKci_UbWyRrKCZ-r2Zz8rHGtROOY5hkL1MhQQLCJaO0ml557GePKJfsSS341FFOR50elkH3tmkxOFdrDBmb3y/w266-h400/20220722-DSC_0063.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">As of late I have been buying my underwear from <a href="https://whiskeydogwares.com/" target="_blank">WhiskyDogWares</a>, by golly she makes the best buttery soft undies ever. Anyway, I noticed she shared her sister's business (what a creative family!) and I immediately fell in love with her wares as well. Her company is called <a href="https://sirencofinegoods.com/" target="_blank">Siren</a> and specializes in waxed canvas bags and accessories. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I picked up the Legion 3-way satchel in olive for $95. It can worn cross-body, around the waist or through a belt. The construction is impeccable. I have worn this as my go-to bag for over a year now and it has endured with grace and durability. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_kYW66KQLE0nQu4q3WJ4tfsPr-5Z-dO6XbTj894kFx3rqVNq5xnEsVPeWhz1LmZispp_kVsImRmmQMlMFknerB537VU4q-GQm4EUk_k9p5Y6MfhqUdOxrDnP5KPg_9lBSMiw56pjiwP6Unm8rMFc4jQ6VhiPRy7WjQi8XxsOhJxCuoxRd4uaUb-MV/s3008/20220722-DSC_0064.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_kYW66KQLE0nQu4q3WJ4tfsPr-5Z-dO6XbTj894kFx3rqVNq5xnEsVPeWhz1LmZispp_kVsImRmmQMlMFknerB537VU4q-GQm4EUk_k9p5Y6MfhqUdOxrDnP5KPg_9lBSMiw56pjiwP6Unm8rMFc4jQ6VhiPRy7WjQi8XxsOhJxCuoxRd4uaUb-MV/w640-h426/20220722-DSC_0064.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I attached a lucky Mercury coin for my travels. I enjoy the two small side pockets. One houses an amethyst worry stone and the other is where my For Strange Women Baba Yaga lip balm tin dwells.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB1wicReROz5_ZKKp4kKr943pasqprSE4inTznyzmV1jVIrjqLdw1764HJHGjW0QsYjUh3NZxqqeiUb_Sdm3uWvE7GggTL0awsoTuHhbx66aXCSYo01AjJhVcobIFAYtTDXAaec-wmy9ErNMmbDtMpkXgcEneIUh6KTHgYBz7U19_fXszltVXxv35T/s3008/20220722-DSC_0065.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3008" data-original-width="2000" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB1wicReROz5_ZKKp4kKr943pasqprSE4inTznyzmV1jVIrjqLdw1764HJHGjW0QsYjUh3NZxqqeiUb_Sdm3uWvE7GggTL0awsoTuHhbx66aXCSYo01AjJhVcobIFAYtTDXAaec-wmy9ErNMmbDtMpkXgcEneIUh6KTHgYBz7U19_fXszltVXxv35T/w426-h640/20220722-DSC_0065.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I love the indigo ticking lining, but you can choose your own lining color among several.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrzSTmHwsXhKXjngJAE9nyB4yMV2wU9cdbTpmS_6KZhCPZU1K3t3isFBBAWNRAfte2XWZqdgLy82k-dwXlqmONZBbnj7JKS1y1We9v1XVGZdgE3ZdxK5_2zL19teRFvbjoHK7W3qgsyV5J3Pzqq1-p7rr2pUuCHJ2txEGthdPr9c8Duc6-uT51wUXJ/s3008/20220722-DSC_0066.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrzSTmHwsXhKXjngJAE9nyB4yMV2wU9cdbTpmS_6KZhCPZU1K3t3isFBBAWNRAfte2XWZqdgLy82k-dwXlqmONZBbnj7JKS1y1We9v1XVGZdgE3ZdxK5_2zL19teRFvbjoHK7W3qgsyV5J3Pzqq1-p7rr2pUuCHJ2txEGthdPr9c8Duc6-uT51wUXJ/w640-h426/20220722-DSC_0066.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It snaps closed in the front and the back has an outer zip pocket. I tend to keep my money and cards in the back zipper.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN0o5ybhaYHWwECGwFxte_vOQZh-4qDLoRc4flYNeBo-UQ_33zXND-BtCx6-X0WhrF4qz4NYf54nK8WzfQJTMLsvcrqArxoIblcUJoTrNKAUz_EcdrHYMGbS4QjTYeKUcYeed1kXE8DRpsVp4vaUlGg-3sK1d9r5LXPj-UUYGEpbaa6x8XrmRebIQF/s3008/20220722-DSC_0067.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN0o5ybhaYHWwECGwFxte_vOQZh-4qDLoRc4flYNeBo-UQ_33zXND-BtCx6-X0WhrF4qz4NYf54nK8WzfQJTMLsvcrqArxoIblcUJoTrNKAUz_EcdrHYMGbS4QjTYeKUcYeed1kXE8DRpsVp4vaUlGg-3sK1d9r5LXPj-UUYGEpbaa6x8XrmRebIQF/w640-h426/20220722-DSC_0067.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The inside houses hand sanitizer, balms, cards, notepad, pens, my phone, perfume roll-on and more. It holds just what I need while I zip about.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">For work I need a bit more room. The past two years I have been using one of those free Vans bags they give you if you buy a pair of shoes in the store. It finally ripped apart and I was on the hunt. It did not take me long to remember where I should get my new work bag: Siren. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHPmlNSfgWZbDOtQmB_C2tZ0YOm_hraQUY_rypxf4N8rUiSobc4c12Ozos0Z-ukSNPRX58RF9C-JQCh9s-qoWAdOfiGjSMWMgfl8-_sHTAeEZIRPxAGe3FeDKl00Fo4qqgtQ9kPSLzt3IsGnvZ6w2XzClNgJTRO1w445lrbjoN-xS8yRinZLX-polP/s3008/20220722-DSC_0068.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3008" data-original-width="2000" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHPmlNSfgWZbDOtQmB_C2tZ0YOm_hraQUY_rypxf4N8rUiSobc4c12Ozos0Z-ukSNPRX58RF9C-JQCh9s-qoWAdOfiGjSMWMgfl8-_sHTAeEZIRPxAGe3FeDKl00Fo4qqgtQ9kPSLzt3IsGnvZ6w2XzClNgJTRO1w445lrbjoN-xS8yRinZLX-polP/w266-h400/20220722-DSC_0068.jpg" width="266" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh705l8WtN2qNRIwukNGQCQHZrXR5UQ7tCu92N3_08JgCK-JKGH8LwgRHMqLsXp0Lg4LE3fx35hDJyTYG4RByo16F3U10_LXOmbfy1qbdUCsxbO6UBV-IMHkIQAQhV5bYdtOuHlSPB7f1UfRR0hglxjt3_DOpaYELjmys87FrWHq1rdJnPM6_h0XugZ/s3008/20220722-DSC_0069.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3008" data-original-width="2000" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh705l8WtN2qNRIwukNGQCQHZrXR5UQ7tCu92N3_08JgCK-JKGH8LwgRHMqLsXp0Lg4LE3fx35hDJyTYG4RByo16F3U10_LXOmbfy1qbdUCsxbO6UBV-IMHkIQAQhV5bYdtOuHlSPB7f1UfRR0hglxjt3_DOpaYELjmys87FrWHq1rdJnPM6_h0XugZ/w266-h400/20220722-DSC_0069.jpg" width="266" /></a></div></div><br />I tend to carry a laptop, charger, legal sized clipboard, composition notebooks, pens, lunch, papers, folders, wet wipes, masks, markers, water bottle and a whole universe of whatnots in my work bag as a teacher. I knew I needed something large, with lots of pockets, and versatility. My choice... Tote #2 for $160. It comes in six color combinations and I chose tan on olive. I liked tan on tan as well but my oldest voted on this one between the two.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgosMgygjHWthb8dLUH-w8hV-ucIZmiPecurbpTszOuYrQY2KRsSUZjHq7L4YjcnjZk3XdrVUy2v6D9d_q75tdOReLDvkvLgF5nYYoclsdPudS2ppida5eeunA3XQYkFCptGJKOtmxFllEehs7ISwlzNrPdIz26B1Q8hOLDHi8HLrlaJJN_Yv8hw9p2/s3008/20220722-DSC_0070.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3008" data-original-width="2000" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgosMgygjHWthb8dLUH-w8hV-ucIZmiPecurbpTszOuYrQY2KRsSUZjHq7L4YjcnjZk3XdrVUy2v6D9d_q75tdOReLDvkvLgF5nYYoclsdPudS2ppida5eeunA3XQYkFCptGJKOtmxFllEehs7ISwlzNrPdIz26B1Q8hOLDHi8HLrlaJJN_Yv8hw9p2/w426-h640/20220722-DSC_0070.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It boasts two front snap pockets, two side pockets, one large back pocket and one inside pocket that is perfect for a water bottle.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdBH1Mrym8uKlEUJaLoNG6LarRFbmCNas4Aajai3ZOJ5rvCMCcPMYMRatwePsOOk-0d2qQhWwgseSNTei2vqsJOl3ZMbEbocvYuD4EMl5TCseo0VBvMJc3LBNUVqA0T9SL7BKKaf-nmPwTHPVgf3vIZWDX91f0P4CNWpV_QioATOAfKmTlzQovPw4O/s3008/20220722-DSC_0073.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdBH1Mrym8uKlEUJaLoNG6LarRFbmCNas4Aajai3ZOJ5rvCMCcPMYMRatwePsOOk-0d2qQhWwgseSNTei2vqsJOl3ZMbEbocvYuD4EMl5TCseo0VBvMJc3LBNUVqA0T9SL7BKKaf-nmPwTHPVgf3vIZWDX91f0P4CNWpV_QioATOAfKmTlzQovPw4O/w640-h426/20220722-DSC_0073.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It is deep and wide and features two styles of handles, long for over the shoulder, and short for hand carrying.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj02D6LNlMd1t4doRAmdfSMDHLbYdGSDEVyXFFSV_AvS30YlWXmdStVrxfevfOO9R_5LfBgHoy0aKgKaaTiaoti8kI5JP33hsWD1Tg48BhADPsOtz6z2qJ3685oH8e6gDaay8g1j_54cfsMBjxR6Qrv_vcwDnV2RLafgQO31-n8WZAwK8N5vR9bg0C9/s3008/20220722-DSC_0080.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj02D6LNlMd1t4doRAmdfSMDHLbYdGSDEVyXFFSV_AvS30YlWXmdStVrxfevfOO9R_5LfBgHoy0aKgKaaTiaoti8kI5JP33hsWD1Tg48BhADPsOtz6z2qJ3685oH8e6gDaay8g1j_54cfsMBjxR6Qrv_vcwDnV2RLafgQO31-n8WZAwK8N5vR9bg0C9/w640-h426/20220722-DSC_0080.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I enjoy how great these pieces look and function. The waxed canvas really holds up well.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfVyQZZYbqwvYOwgf44duMiECKJVg1lDegriEi45IMdkhKJE7-d9COR0bkSQvGGQZzxBNQpXZz_2Xb9GT6CloNTbnq5ApDlP2-Uq-s64F9NcXebbKy5bQZ7daaYLu6MoJOp_m5aw4sHZfUl4gvp44L_KxeA-CfF3mN2EFuA-VPWa0V40uG4I0tznnE/s3008/20220722-DSC_0081.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3008" data-original-width="2000" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfVyQZZYbqwvYOwgf44duMiECKJVg1lDegriEi45IMdkhKJE7-d9COR0bkSQvGGQZzxBNQpXZz_2Xb9GT6CloNTbnq5ApDlP2-Uq-s64F9NcXebbKy5bQZ7daaYLu6MoJOp_m5aw4sHZfUl4gvp44L_KxeA-CfF3mN2EFuA-VPWa0V40uG4I0tznnE/w426-h640/20220722-DSC_0081.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Both of these pieces are currently available. And luck you, the Tote #2 is on sale for $20 off, making it $140. It is going to be one of those bags you have forever. Support a small business. I know she would appreciate it! Links for WhiskeyDogWares and Siren are in the first paragraph embedded in their respective names (as always in case you didn't know- my hyperlinks don't show up visibly). </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I am eyeing up that duffle next. </div><p></p>TheRedolentMermaidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12025330454820306972noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2810618299009561680.post-19545985268866597302022-06-09T07:00:00.001-04:002022-06-09T07:00:00.197-04:00Arcana Wildcraft: Moonstone & Black Tourmaline<p style="text-align: center;"> <i>These perfumes were sent as a gift.</i></p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOR1t0x35yxQbNqt-3pY28pe7gnXuf3-7vMvomhCgTYp5_No8AFrwdtJQSDXiHJHD6iw3pB1PGD8J93-05hbYdDyo-GjC0azp02c1CC8bVeCJRFkeCQp9y3oMmwMbfPZH4N8qWSx0mO1s/s2048/20210722-DSC_0048.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1358" data-original-width="2048" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOR1t0x35yxQbNqt-3pY28pe7gnXuf3-7vMvomhCgTYp5_No8AFrwdtJQSDXiHJHD6iw3pB1PGD8J93-05hbYdDyo-GjC0azp02c1CC8bVeCJRFkeCQp9y3oMmwMbfPZH4N8qWSx0mO1s/w640-h424/20210722-DSC_0048.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Julia at Arcana Wildcraft created some scents for Troxel's at Rockaway Beach in Oregon that revolve around minerals and gemstones. Celestite is one that I have had in the past when she paired with Brooke Perry at B. Studio with some amazing scrubs to go with previous gemstone perfumes. In order to obtain these scents, contact Troxel's via Facebook.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3nt8Srr-FFiWR77Qmgek6imsUSYFInttJNfsYKQf-b-2tHS0lqb6r_RTbTS9HrB1vi53qQul3Z4yDfryDY4j2kLQlhiWxaYf5ClzNmSjOMch-CHRkiDnHubaaJSgZUUTN_HnT5sHrS7I/s2048/20210723-DSC_0051.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1354" data-original-width="2048" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3nt8Srr-FFiWR77Qmgek6imsUSYFInttJNfsYKQf-b-2tHS0lqb6r_RTbTS9HrB1vi53qQul3Z4yDfryDY4j2kLQlhiWxaYf5ClzNmSjOMch-CHRkiDnHubaaJSgZUUTN_HnT5sHrS7I/w640-h424/20210723-DSC_0051.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Black Tourmaline-</b> <i>Notes: Used for protecting and grounding oneself in the midst of negativity, black tourmaline is a stone of confidence and power. Cafe au lait with black spruce, toasted hazelnuts, sugared amber resin, fir balsam absolute, and a drop of blackberry nectar.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Camping among primitive evergreens with a plaid tin thermos steaming with black chicory coffee cupped between chilled hands, this is the vision that emerges from the amber bottle when uncapped. Black Tourmaline is robust and intense. On the wrists, the evergreens ignite into a camphorous blaze that quickly merges with the warm and limpid black coffee. The soft touch of hazelnut, cream and sugar lend a gentleness to the brew that balances out the fizz of the firs. This is a lovely scent that would be perfect for those who love the coffee and woods aroma of Leaves Falling Like Rain, but would enjoy a twist of evergreens in place of the ginger and herbs. It truly feels like protection and comfort. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5ZJlzwKQ08PtbLHcF473fuvIkyKem1ZhxaVFgLMyQBvZquNvV9m8ep7XgY_btlKipz_QOuaA48niz_kg04lMqQa4077j_KfoFBdhRdoeHEFakm0Fmv9JPZNhhIejUwTgjg5jn3O_aigg/s2048/20210723-DSC_0053.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1336" data-original-width="2048" height="418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5ZJlzwKQ08PtbLHcF473fuvIkyKem1ZhxaVFgLMyQBvZquNvV9m8ep7XgY_btlKipz_QOuaA48niz_kg04lMqQa4077j_KfoFBdhRdoeHEFakm0Fmv9JPZNhhIejUwTgjg5jn3O_aigg/w640-h418/20210723-DSC_0053.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Moonstone-</b> <i>Notes: In ancient times moonstone was believed to contain the shining rays of the moon itself. Wear it for luck, love, and a more beautiful life. Tuberose petals are infused in a cold pitcher of sweet milk with creamy coconut and white sandalwood.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">From the bottle a milky white flower pours forth a froth of cream perfumed with coconut milk. It is a tropical moon, sweet, full and overflowing with abundance. It is the Milky Way of richness, a galaxy of starry blossoms floating in the pearlescent nebula of space. On the skin the heady tuberose, coconut, and milk all swirl and mingle in harmony, each a subtle reflection of the other. Blue flashes of airy sandalwood gleam through the pale lush fragrance. This will wear beautifully in the Florida heat, blooming in its fragrant largesse. I love the parallel that the Florida state stone is the moonstone as well. This perfume does it justice.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Now that summer is here I am looking forward to doing some deep cleaning, organizing, resting, swimming, and all the things that fill up my love tank. I know the two months will zoom past, but ain't that just the way.</div><p></p>TheRedolentMermaidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12025330454820306972noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2810618299009561680.post-81943604057188602572022-06-07T07:00:00.004-04:002022-06-07T07:00:00.198-04:00Candles From The Keeping Room: End of May Order 2022<p style="text-align: center;"> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit2WDHI6qR9jXqlXguPDnISBQ4m5Umg9rwUXCpNXHKNpKCvJt2FJ-5zQfClFzpBNA_fxG98WYYiD_qzEFo2dFOHXoOAMmuaOuhpi2wQvaYHiN_Q4ifVtKGeQNPRMl8jQv7DlHdz2QiJmknRq5QVS9IjUAnPaVbVJXhGDBtlGHwMjPdr_AsW-76kTBw/s3008/20220604-DSC_0046.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit2WDHI6qR9jXqlXguPDnISBQ4m5Umg9rwUXCpNXHKNpKCvJt2FJ-5zQfClFzpBNA_fxG98WYYiD_qzEFo2dFOHXoOAMmuaOuhpi2wQvaYHiN_Q4ifVtKGeQNPRMl8jQv7DlHdz2QiJmknRq5QVS9IjUAnPaVbVJXhGDBtlGHwMjPdr_AsW-76kTBw/w640-h426/20220604-DSC_0046.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.candlesfromthekeepingroom.com/catalog.php?category=1" target="_blank">Candles From The Keeping Room</a> is number one for wax in my heart. Ever since my first purchase from Carol all those years ago, I was hooked. Carol announced that she plans on retiring in 2022 so I am giving myself permission to go whole hog each time she opens from here on out which might be one or two more times. Bags contain six ounces (or more) and cost $7.50 each. The paraffin wax throws strong and has multi-year longevity. I picked up some old favorites but also a ton of new ones to break out of my melting routine a bit.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhox82T9ZPTxuAmLnRJfpEFRWgEljEWhCZ6s0Wk8eauGszI98nOLL8EEgx-IEsy11c5um77W38uLiSf0RqweQFkTSb_MN6-wpKq_9oIMf3bLceUHuisAcoPJTJce1jh7EZE_OfdtUeRr0M81vklvDiXdzxKmOXod25YLV2Kh4EuUWWkJO0NLYXk6cu3/s3008/20220604-DSC_0049.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhox82T9ZPTxuAmLnRJfpEFRWgEljEWhCZ6s0Wk8eauGszI98nOLL8EEgx-IEsy11c5um77W38uLiSf0RqweQFkTSb_MN6-wpKq_9oIMf3bLceUHuisAcoPJTJce1jh7EZE_OfdtUeRr0M81vklvDiXdzxKmOXod25YLV2Kh4EuUWWkJO0NLYXk6cu3/w640-h426/20220604-DSC_0049.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>French Lavender and Honey</b> is a lovely aroma. It smells like a spring floral, with tiny violets, iris, and tender lavender with a wildflower honey haze that floats about the edges.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Blue Sugar</b> is a scent that I appreciate. When I just began exploring handmade bar soaps there was a Doctor Who bar soap in Blue Sugar that I loved using. It is the masculine counterpart to Pink Sugar. Herbal patchouli smoothed with vanilla and accented with citrus and greenery. Looking forward to blending with it. I think it is lovely with mint.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Vermont Honey Apple</b> was a sample that I melted and enjoyed. It melted into a juicy golden apple, sweet with honey and sunshine. It does not feel like fall and is not spiced at all. It makes the home feel like a spring apple orchard, fresh and sweet.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj54jagJPpOiWHDhtziCJj6yRV41S5WF2WAEqS2XEKzryRjQ0gndzAyIfu-RR8Yd_gWOgGPxNm1-HoO7detKSJAdPQFPCp2C6-COYhaDDMPiDKK6vK-Fp7pP8SR7-PEU6cFRwvz5ZcXNfS5XXv699k-VqTrmY8ijrSOPaYBjCCZZdAhVPfd5JxxMcPy/s3008/20220604-DSC_0050.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj54jagJPpOiWHDhtziCJj6yRV41S5WF2WAEqS2XEKzryRjQ0gndzAyIfu-RR8Yd_gWOgGPxNm1-HoO7detKSJAdPQFPCp2C6-COYhaDDMPiDKK6vK-Fp7pP8SR7-PEU6cFRwvz5ZcXNfS5XXv699k-VqTrmY8ijrSOPaYBjCCZZdAhVPfd5JxxMcPy/w640-h426/20220604-DSC_0050.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Pink Sugar and Sweet Lemon </b>is incredible. I am not sure why I have not explored more of Carol's Pink Sugar blends, but I will be in my next order. The sweet lemon makes the mouth pucker with Lemon Head candy goodness, the pink sugar acts as a cotton candy base. It is delicious and bold and cheerful.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Watermelon Jolly Rancher</b> is sweet and mellow. I did expect it to have that sour bite on the end but it smells just like a simple watermelon hard candy.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Lemon Noel</b> is one that I know a lot of waxies enjoy. I don't know why I have not tucked this into my cart before but I won't make that mistake again. It throws strong and smells divine, a bright tart and juicy lemon with creamy vanilla sugar cookie yumminess. Lemon zest studded vanilla cookie to the T.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAy95RbNCbaK4y49X3lhtVYnVmqh7C9znQ0tRjmouDfyBREX44trzYmnc0T5JFVrHNFiIrPcKP80viylcKGlhunHefZvymUHQ80P4U2zte9XjfxwxXDSOQkCSHLq_KfJhE2CYQ9-sC8UIaTqpq-PxGbudWZM4AKcqaeSFbxILzdfdrHc05hmtws6Ps/s3008/20220604-DSC_0051.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAy95RbNCbaK4y49X3lhtVYnVmqh7C9znQ0tRjmouDfyBREX44trzYmnc0T5JFVrHNFiIrPcKP80viylcKGlhunHefZvymUHQ80P4U2zte9XjfxwxXDSOQkCSHLq_KfJhE2CYQ9-sC8UIaTqpq-PxGbudWZM4AKcqaeSFbxILzdfdrHc05hmtws6Ps/w640-h426/20220604-DSC_0051.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Coconut Lime Verbena</b> was one of my favorite scents from Bath & Body Works when I was in high school and college. I love the citrusy vibrance and tropical feel of the scent. It always went well with Florida's hot summer days. I love having this on hand to melt this summer. It will be nostalgic.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Velvet Sugar Type</b> hasn't been in my warmers for a long time. I sometimes read old reviews to see if there is a scent I liked but have not sought out in a while. This was one of them. It is a simple sugary perfume with soft floral and a touch of berry.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Exotic Coconut</b> was one I picked up to scratch a beachy itch. I was craving some coconut suntan type of scent. This is less suntan but an excellent coconut that does not veer into coconut pie territory. It is slightly dry, with a vanilla musk undertone beneath the coconut flesh. I look forward to melting it.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_4npc6GpJOLLjdZdR-JJ2JSaHdYX6pNjQqerimKascWvrzi0v795AXw3SZqNRdmq1Mx4AiNjgdQA6yTk5Z3lmJkIw97LFPm5sfBGQBES8z4pTX8jC1w8qgRl7dl_phbx2b5VYm50xsIgIkp_uSZ_nD5bNj7U6PtPELDANU30HMgTP9M7PTEtMQqIK/s3008/20220604-DSC_0052.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_4npc6GpJOLLjdZdR-JJ2JSaHdYX6pNjQqerimKascWvrzi0v795AXw3SZqNRdmq1Mx4AiNjgdQA6yTk5Z3lmJkIw97LFPm5sfBGQBES8z4pTX8jC1w8qgRl7dl_phbx2b5VYm50xsIgIkp_uSZ_nD5bNj7U6PtPELDANU30HMgTP9M7PTEtMQqIK/w640-h426/20220604-DSC_0052.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Dry Gin & Cypress</b> simply sounded appealing. I love these invigorating camphor scents. The gin speaks of juniper and the cypress is smooth and arid at the same time. It smells expensive but rustic. I adore it.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Old Colonial Hearth</b> is a smoky beast that I have missed having on hand. I like to blend with this one. It smells similar to liquid smoke, lots of embers and a touch acrid. If you are jonesing for smokiness, this will fill that with spades.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Hemlock Forest</b> is relatively new to me. I picked some up in my last order (which I never blogged about) and enjoyed it. It smells fresh and clean, softly woodsy, the bergamot and amber shine beautifully.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK7pW9rTfpC2lbQON_oLecUeHcrQnndPEhC_qLa-M6PHn_eQ3y6VBxfUHuKjY606Kf0qlw8beZ-wm7jH6uclBuaOLBFCC-VE7u-TPekUdyEmUSf3zWlywacVbc9oKExyFgv3KA1yRcmdcLgo19_hQQmYIqzIJa2ypGjEspBhL71-YRGMByfG2KZDgD/s3008/20220604-DSC_0055.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK7pW9rTfpC2lbQON_oLecUeHcrQnndPEhC_qLa-M6PHn_eQ3y6VBxfUHuKjY606Kf0qlw8beZ-wm7jH6uclBuaOLBFCC-VE7u-TPekUdyEmUSf3zWlywacVbc9oKExyFgv3KA1yRcmdcLgo19_hQQmYIqzIJa2ypGjEspBhL71-YRGMByfG2KZDgD/w640-h426/20220604-DSC_0055.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Fair Funnel Cake</b> was an impulse choice, but possibly my favorite. I was simply bowled over by it from first sniff. I don't think I was expecting the rush of vanilla that was included in the funnel cake. It is a creamy decadent vanilla cake treat.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Strawberry Coconut Cake</b> is new to me. That coconut craving was still hitting hard. This smells like a moist coconut layer cake with buttercream icing and thick layers of strawberry jam nestled between. This tart makes me want to bake one.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Strawberry Marshmallow Jelly Donuts </b>quickly popped into my cart as well. I have never had this one but please don't sleep on it like I did. The fresh picked strawberry makes a delicious jelly filling inside of a doughy treat topped with a melted marshmallow. It is a perfect combination. Strong and divine.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqsR__XtZ_M-WkWNxvo0ptOwRNMVYBd9AhnRDkvtlHQTaPV-h1huB_Q06xl59nmmjZLaesJmJXA28xtykzAn1ZipcVVjNga4VXjJpyYRUk1kCR1SFSFeKiO9PJg7hqD9UXZ4FVvHl3z62WlhQcu4VQYYWZJVN8_AP4OcnA-ySMMnTDP2JkVOuOkEIf/s3008/20220604-DSC_0057.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqsR__XtZ_M-WkWNxvo0ptOwRNMVYBd9AhnRDkvtlHQTaPV-h1huB_Q06xl59nmmjZLaesJmJXA28xtykzAn1ZipcVVjNga4VXjJpyYRUk1kCR1SFSFeKiO9PJg7hqD9UXZ4FVvHl3z62WlhQcu4VQYYWZJVN8_AP4OcnA-ySMMnTDP2JkVOuOkEIf/w640-h426/20220604-DSC_0057.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Sugared Strawberry Cookies</b> is another first for me. Knowing my deep love for fresh picked strawberry and Carol's cookie scents, I knew I needed to try it. It smells just like the strawberry cookies that Parksdale Farms sells, sprinkled with powdered sugar and all. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Creamy Peppermint Serendipity</b> is an old favorite. I love Carol's serendipity blends as well. This creamy sweet coconut and cherry delight is cool with peppermint, making it have an almost ice cream quality. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Tropical Cookies</b> is an oldie but goodie. This is a blend Carol reformulated but it still smells just as good as in the past, a serendipity blended with cookies, cupcakes, pies and such. It is a heavy bakery with a touch of zucchini bread.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh49hkJ-mq42bTO2QED-1DQ2JyYML9cYFBh3dBNNUEAll5J-2zF0P-AVYO1tU8_DzQ_I4kGIRxt_VjcNfSQTKyPv19wkhMxdElRgpobwR230xUehZfiiTHOQSTfW2KVInhKA5s6Gx63zFPx73kkvRXaM_EpRkGNmuQxCfyvwXNqWYv02T7ldOj7wuWe/s3008/20220604-DSC_0058.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh49hkJ-mq42bTO2QED-1DQ2JyYML9cYFBh3dBNNUEAll5J-2zF0P-AVYO1tU8_DzQ_I4kGIRxt_VjcNfSQTKyPv19wkhMxdElRgpobwR230xUehZfiiTHOQSTfW2KVInhKA5s6Gx63zFPx73kkvRXaM_EpRkGNmuQxCfyvwXNqWYv02T7ldOj7wuWe/w640-h426/20220604-DSC_0058.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Cimbellies</b> sounded like a treat I needed to try out. It is based upon an Italian sugar cookie with a touch of cinnamon and that is exactly what it smells like. It reminds me of Amish Quilt but with a chewy sugar cookie richness. Of course I love it.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Pizzelle</b> is a fantastic crisp sugar cookie that straddles the line of waffle cone and stroopwafle. It is delicate but robust with vanilla bakery. It isn't overly sweet. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Ultimate Vanilla</b> is a deep love. I pick it up whenever I can. I love baking a fresh vanilla cake and eating it without icing. This wax reminds me of just that. Warm, fresh baked vanilla cake without icing. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii1LLByDy8XvCPQfXXSrs5jbo1ZV7vM7WmHilTQy6VXHkjqp_3wYbqhYped4lPkvm4qejnIII-g1tBnYtg1vsegqR3-5s_wEi97AOiIMArav7MGNrJlCedfMcRitZGlCGf8ob2cWpna2FabGWoTIXF3QPKw0LcpOmSR_bprJr8ZPUg2-bPU4V6AHsS/s3008/20220604-DSC_0059.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii1LLByDy8XvCPQfXXSrs5jbo1ZV7vM7WmHilTQy6VXHkjqp_3wYbqhYped4lPkvm4qejnIII-g1tBnYtg1vsegqR3-5s_wEi97AOiIMArav7MGNrJlCedfMcRitZGlCGf8ob2cWpna2FabGWoTIXF3QPKw0LcpOmSR_bprJr8ZPUg2-bPU4V6AHsS/w640-h426/20220604-DSC_0059.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Farmhouse Treats</b> smells like jelly and jam filled donuts and pastries. The preserves are brimming with strawberries, blackberries and raspberries. This is very close to Jelly Filled Donuts. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Strawberry Raspberry Guava</b> is a classic. Super strong, fruity and electric. The fresh picked strawberry sparkles with gooey peachy guava and tart sour raspberries. Grab one if you can.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Mac the Bear</b> is quickly moving up in the comfort ranks. I used to be ambivalent to macintosh apple scents but my nose is coming around to not only welcoming them but craving them. These mac apples are honeyed and juicy and pair well with the bear claws pastry to make a wonderful apple filled danish aroma.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmZC0f5o8cPqKw3AP-5uwW2pHpRHofjEAi9ZW_iOi1MfF-6b3-25FwRg1a7pV60nSjcO_R4_WXHM7NeF-6-_BN_9myDWIP8exDx-EVs0APvvz3Z1ja811kZOB8TwfUvbG5lAro3J40LIlXeBygjdv2QYVs-WOLKiyesy-ssqcffYoowfSncLt1qSof/s3008/20220604-DSC_0060.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmZC0f5o8cPqKw3AP-5uwW2pHpRHofjEAi9ZW_iOi1MfF-6b3-25FwRg1a7pV60nSjcO_R4_WXHM7NeF-6-_BN_9myDWIP8exDx-EVs0APvvz3Z1ja811kZOB8TwfUvbG5lAro3J40LIlXeBygjdv2QYVs-WOLKiyesy-ssqcffYoowfSncLt1qSof/w640-h426/20220604-DSC_0060.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Cinnamon and Cider</b> is a warming autumnal scent. Velvety cinnamon, woody nutmeg and mulled apple goodness. I am not sure if this is the same scent as Cinnamon Cider.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Cinnamon Strudel</b> has thick ribbons of cinnamon sugar and brown sugar running through the dense and divine coffee cake. A welcoming scent to melt in the home.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Apple Coffee Cake</b> should be on your list if you love apple cinnamon bakery. There is a lovely gooey sauce that is reminiscent of apple pie filling in this fragrance that makes this apple cinnamon treat a standout.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjclnrxgn5csJ7UJA77cfifonysRqYl49fF3HJWW6hEUjopM_5axO8LP-tLHjXQBlDMcEroGG_zKyo2NtodYNraxJKXrNPe-298c8bKFSK2xGuF4HcWHlAlKrqg73mgwAeOPboA9iwObnTjYreL_DCTGrYv8dGPsIOQgTWeY2jUATbwYZpFb5kr-ekt/s3008/20220604-DSC_0061.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjclnrxgn5csJ7UJA77cfifonysRqYl49fF3HJWW6hEUjopM_5axO8LP-tLHjXQBlDMcEroGG_zKyo2NtodYNraxJKXrNPe-298c8bKFSK2xGuF4HcWHlAlKrqg73mgwAeOPboA9iwObnTjYreL_DCTGrYv8dGPsIOQgTWeY2jUATbwYZpFb5kr-ekt/w640-h426/20220604-DSC_0061.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Mr. Bears Caramel Latte</b> is me branching out in the coffee arena. Normally, the only coffee scent I have found that I enjoy is Carol's Sugar Cookie Latte. On cold sniff this seems very manageable due to the caramel and bear claw components. They keep the coffee from dominating it too much.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Glazed Cinnamon Donut</b> is a simple gem of a tart. It is a cinnamon sugar with a light cake note.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Bear Claw</b> had to come home with me since I have been loving the Mr. Bear blends. I wanted to try this on its own merits. It brings to mind the individually wrapped honey buns I used to have for breakfast while working at the golf course when I was young, the ones that come in vending machines. Soft, chewy, honeyed and rich. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Baked Apple Maple Panna Cotta</b> sounded too good to not pick up. I have only had a panna cotta blend from Lasting Scent Candles so I was excited when I saw Carol do this one. In the bag the baked apple and maple comes across as honeyed and sweetly mellow. There is no spice in this scent. The panna cotta lends a touch of creamy custard. This will be easy to melt all year long.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Banana Crepes</b> was one that was out of my comfort zone as I normally do not like banana in wax. This one has a bit of spiced warmth and bakery that makes the banana read like banana bread. I actually liked melting it. It threw strong in the kitchen. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeIESVNyDYQIVKoICCrMJBSJ3j1RmTaUbrYZjzNzS7yxw3IJal4d2lQxDLgm7D-nlWOSiJ4OXw4i1nEYCIgKsnIJNADGh4iSo2QjeZNbkJ9W9IQ_sNYJCjODChPp_aLwROHY5PntYqLOA9PAomoev1jyee9twAl3HQK4tPdyrwOYWJUv5B3rBrtHUn/s3008/20220604-DSC_0064.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeIESVNyDYQIVKoICCrMJBSJ3j1RmTaUbrYZjzNzS7yxw3IJal4d2lQxDLgm7D-nlWOSiJ4OXw4i1nEYCIgKsnIJNADGh4iSo2QjeZNbkJ9W9IQ_sNYJCjODChPp_aLwROHY5PntYqLOA9PAomoev1jyee9twAl3HQK4tPdyrwOYWJUv5B3rBrtHUn/w640-h426/20220604-DSC_0064.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Getting further out of my comfort zone meant more zucchini breads too. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Buttercream Maple Zucchini</b> is rich and buttery, full of sweet maple and a touch of frosting. It makes this a cozy scent. It threw strong and made the home feel inviting.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Sugar Cookie Zucchini</b> threw strong and smelled amazing as well. The sugar cookie smooths out the zucchini and adds a vanilla aspect to the bread. This one read as more rich than the Buttercream and Maple version.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Caramelized Praline Flapjacks</b> is one I have not had before. I don't think I have ever really explored Carol's flapjacks. When it was warmed in the house it provided a strong aroma. It brought to mind a thick stack of pancakes topped with toasted pecans, caramel and maple syrup. Definitely caused some drooling. I will try some of the other flapjacks now too. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk49MF3IJMKnlYgdU9DwgOI_u7kowD4yNWBd0TG1wLdbSbAZHwcs9sW_UCdLODjzs3iD-OhBAs4YVf4jlEoOKxfsmlFF7Vu1FTZoO2HpycyIFGU1iHN0LTlCUv6po--Mgv6vVr9_oYUhOxAcqZ3abaO13JRAB-7IN-mr1SO0s_L596abxscAZYB2mU/s3008/20220604-DSC_0065.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk49MF3IJMKnlYgdU9DwgOI_u7kowD4yNWBd0TG1wLdbSbAZHwcs9sW_UCdLODjzs3iD-OhBAs4YVf4jlEoOKxfsmlFF7Vu1FTZoO2HpycyIFGU1iHN0LTlCUv6po--Mgv6vVr9_oYUhOxAcqZ3abaO13JRAB-7IN-mr1SO0s_L596abxscAZYB2mU/w640-h426/20220604-DSC_0065.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Toasted Sugar Corn Pudding Fluff</b> is a traditional favorite from ages ago. I am so sad I missed out on it for so long. Cold sniff in the bag does not do this one justice. Once it warms the pillowy marshmallow goodness really blossoms with the semi-sweet corn pudding.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Homemade Cinnamon and Nutmeg Biscuits</b> was one that Jay alerted me to on IG. Her husband enjoyed the biscuit blend so I wanted to give it a whirl. It has the bread aspect of a deep bakery scent and this version has a hint of spice. There is minimal sweetness to it. I look forward to trying another one. Maybe apple. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Cinnamon Corn Pudding</b> melted deliciously. It threw well and crafted a warm and cozy atmosphere brewing with cinnamon and rustic kitchen treats. I will miss this one when it is gone.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtWFdKg-cZHyjBP87uKS5K5AV1cAZn4IPtZO-k45ITwwHzTqRG9d_FOrWy4-f3cR8OFgBnPfUJiL4V5pWFrSJpVap_8yXftq90Co7Wo9AoYiAV13cBk2w21Rq5tmBKpgg8eiE5IIhYou5x5dqFEeRlmaoWqolHtAf1esuZ8lZ4RhenrOb5PS-pqHjy/s3008/20220604-DSC_0067.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtWFdKg-cZHyjBP87uKS5K5AV1cAZn4IPtZO-k45ITwwHzTqRG9d_FOrWy4-f3cR8OFgBnPfUJiL4V5pWFrSJpVap_8yXftq90Co7Wo9AoYiAV13cBk2w21Rq5tmBKpgg8eiE5IIhYou5x5dqFEeRlmaoWqolHtAf1esuZ8lZ4RhenrOb5PS-pqHjy/w640-h426/20220604-DSC_0067.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">With a CFTKR order comes amazing samples! I am so grateful to try all these wonderful new treats. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sweet Bliss is a tart and sweet bubbly fruity drink. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Strawberry Jam Sugar Cookie Bread Dough is jammy and sweet with the strawberry and a touch creamy with the bakery. I have a feeling this one will bloom when melted.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Strawberry Funnel Cake merges the berry and the spiced cake really well. Going on my wishlist.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Summer Strawberry is a dreamy mix of fruits and sugar musk. There seems to be a bit of candied vanilla in the mix. This one is a new favorite.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Strawberry Lady Fingers smells like berry filled sugar cookies. Excellent.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Fresh Raspberry Martini is a chewy raspberry taffy. Love it.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Pink Flamingo Ginger Ale is incredible. That fizziness feels like a fruit punch at a birthday party for the senses. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpDs5Bwss_GszjNMra1uoVIuTT-wNXcp-dpUpGcs7gSTeZwkwb-ViucWKLQzgTyVQC6k-wOVUUJJHMp254AZ7S599iaDInl_5ZKS8er3nqSO2MR8dVkQWV0efg8M5xJcmSffR-McImPc0/s3008/20220604-DSC_0068.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpDs5Bwss_GszjNMra1uoVIuTT-wNXcp-dpUpGcs7gSTeZwkwb-ViucWKLQzgTyVQC6k-wOVUUJJHMp254AZ7S599iaDInl_5ZKS8er3nqSO2MR8dVkQWV0efg8M5xJcmSffR-McImPc0/w640-h426/20220604-DSC_0068.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Lemon Zest is sour and tart, effervescent and acidic. Very little sweetness.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Blueberry Meringue Torte is a lively blueberry. Fresh and slightly tart. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Orange Sherbet Filled Waffle Cone is a light and airy orange sherbet with a touch of crunch.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Gooseberry Birthday Cake almost leans to blueberry and melts into a yummy pool of berry and cake.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Marshmallow Filled Yellow Cake is a simple yet lovely vanilla.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Coconut Rice Milk reads almost like a bread scent. It is very nice.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Pineapple Upside Down Cake is a clear and sharp pineapple.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijty3242imBR0lug9qFNmxgbmiiqswTAFSJAvmyQU4AjNcOZZmfRBhKnXM91q-FY0gc2CBrihN7gezID-HYxw2iKsGGvx7eWAnE4wsSZUYXhgUxZQkzH73-DlAWnyoRB4uVmMrxV-8-Kk1eglmNk_tyBvxYhWkac78Y_83KUGsknJxyVU7yZSRfXoT/s3008/20220604-DSC_0069.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijty3242imBR0lug9qFNmxgbmiiqswTAFSJAvmyQU4AjNcOZZmfRBhKnXM91q-FY0gc2CBrihN7gezID-HYxw2iKsGGvx7eWAnE4wsSZUYXhgUxZQkzH73-DlAWnyoRB4uVmMrxV-8-Kk1eglmNk_tyBvxYhWkac78Y_83KUGsknJxyVU7yZSRfXoT/w640-h426/20220604-DSC_0069.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Cranberry Bundt is rich with cherry-almond flavors.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Amish Quilt is one of my very favorite cinnamon sugar scents.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Island Dreaming smells of mango and tropical greenery.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Blackberry Fizz is a deep and dark berry with a slight bubbly soda edge.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sweet on Paris is a sugary and candied fruity floral.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Tangerine Gelato wafts out with orange goodness. A great scent.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Oatmeal Raisin Cookie smells bright for a cookie, it must be the raisins. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk6PBV3OjAw9TXjS-aVdJ5PjdYrX4peiv2ATyXMJ_Il2XwlvRqw9S11qpFspMPCjV-pbxQz4OQOwJ4FPZKMPHVyMK68FqP6H64ZTMlVM1zpDB_8chlfgUHtXGQnCVi4gcZI5MxzxOBQOiRoacDyN8AvOpJuBYFYfgnq4AUms-JeLO9G5gVcNe1GMVl/s3008/20220604-DSC_0070.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk6PBV3OjAw9TXjS-aVdJ5PjdYrX4peiv2ATyXMJ_Il2XwlvRqw9S11qpFspMPCjV-pbxQz4OQOwJ4FPZKMPHVyMK68FqP6H64ZTMlVM1zpDB_8chlfgUHtXGQnCVi4gcZI5MxzxOBQOiRoacDyN8AvOpJuBYFYfgnq4AUms-JeLO9G5gVcNe1GMVl/w640-h426/20220604-DSC_0070.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Pumpkin Rum Cake warms with wooden spice and that touch of rum. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Caramel Apple Praline is a candy that I would like to eat. It smells like something made in a copper pot in Savannah, Georgia. The apple and caramel makes it almost feel like fall.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Bourbon Soaked Raisins is rich with whiskey and a dark sweetness.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Campfire Marshmallow is a wonderful version of marshmallow fireside.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Bonfire Bliss is a sweet and smoky fire fragrance.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Vanilla Zucchini Wafers was amazing. I have never had this but the vanilla wafer with it really makes it incredible. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Citrus Indulgence Cake makes my mouth water. That juicy and zingy orange with the pillowy layer of cake is bliss.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Blueberry Brown Sugar Zucchini Bread wowed me. I plan on trying to get this one in a bag next time. The blueberry is lovely and with the extra dark brown sugar and the zucchini, it was perfection.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Pomegranate Apple Zucchini is just as fabulous. The fruits pair really well with the rich bakery. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I am blown away as usual by my Candles From The Keeping Room orders. I am a bit sad that this season is winding down for Carol but I totally understand that she needs a break. My goal is to stock up so that I can melt for a long time to come. Did you pick up anything? What are some of your favorites that you are keeping an eye out for?</div><p></p>TheRedolentMermaidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12025330454820306972noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2810618299009561680.post-82431979569087514752022-05-01T09:54:00.003-04:002022-05-01T20:08:46.035-04:00Ebb & Flow: April 2022<p style="text-align: center;"> <i>The highs and lows of the month.</i></p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDVE6IqQ49mZinaeZCXs6QvnEQLzroW4Z40riuNtEvCYuQWwPBbrytTlJZIkBg9N1GeSwwDUAYum0kJM5jMrLGhVoYEBIOvYxmuGDFDIjqttDWIv0huvItEJDt539FBNPLk9-uKFrZjVdHRCgWscqo969B443Tq40EVTvYdUPOpzosWmbCDinLtKss/s3008/20220331-DSC_0040.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDVE6IqQ49mZinaeZCXs6QvnEQLzroW4Z40riuNtEvCYuQWwPBbrytTlJZIkBg9N1GeSwwDUAYum0kJM5jMrLGhVoYEBIOvYxmuGDFDIjqttDWIv0huvItEJDt539FBNPLk9-uKFrZjVdHRCgWscqo969B443Tq40EVTvYdUPOpzosWmbCDinLtKss/w640-h426/20220331-DSC_0040.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p style="text-align: center;">Perfume:</p><p style="text-align: center;">Serge Lutens Fleur d'Oranger</p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">Perfume Oil:</p><p style="text-align: center;">Arcana Wildcraft Quick Bright Things</p><p style="text-align: center;">Nocturne Alchemy White Amber Beetle</p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">Candle:</p><p style="text-align: center;">Bath & Body Works Rainforest Gardenia</p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">Wax:</p><p style="text-align: center;">The Bathing Garden Sleepy (pink peppermint)</p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">Incense:</p><p style="text-align: center;">MerMade Magical Arts Japanese incense (New Moon)</p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">Soap:</p><p style="text-align: center;">Black Magic Soap in Rootbeer</p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">Scrub:</p><p style="text-align: center;">Paintbox Soapworks sugar scrub in Illuminated Dick Joke</p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">Deodorant:</p><p style="text-align: center;">Felin Lune Apothecary Deodorant Paste in Garden Hippy (I have had trouble getting my hands on Wildroots sensitive formula and this one from Felin Lune is AMAZING! I will blog about it soon).</p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">Skin Care:</p><p style="text-align: center;">Blood Moon Botanica Moon Dew mixed with Forest & Fjord Deep Forest Serum</p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">Lotion:</p><p style="text-align: center;">Future Primitive Campfire Marshmallow Luxury Body Cream</p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">Reading:</p><p style="text-align: center;">A translation of an epic poem called Gudrun by a deceased Jewess author who disappeared in the Minsk concentration camp named Alma Johanna Koenig. Beautiful story. </p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">Watching:</p><p style="text-align: center;">That cheesy show on Netflix about it being cake or not and wrapped up Seinfeld.</p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">Listening:</p><p style="text-align: center;">Beach Boys Good Vibrations album</p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">Awaiting:</p><p style="text-align: center;">The end of testing and the end of the school year! Ready for summer break just as much as the kiddos. </p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">Dreading:</p><p style="text-align: center;">Some health insurance issues have me dreading opening up bills and statements. Dreading having to fight all the insurance battles. Dreading the outcome. Dreading having to hire a lawyer.</p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">Hit:</p><p style="text-align: center;">Life Flower Care CBD bug bite roll-on. It really works well for mosquito and ant bites. I have been getting eaten up by mosquitoes lately.</p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">Miss:</p><p style="text-align: center;">Tidy Cats Lightweight litter. It sticks to my cat's paws and she drags it all around the house. Clumps in the couch. Scattered litter sand all over. Yuck. Heavy duty for us.</p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">Low:</p><p style="text-align: center;">Insurance issues. Seeing Adam struggle with it too. Tax issues. But we will get through it.</p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">High:</p><p style="text-align: center;">Knowing I will see my sister and her husband and baby (who isn't even a baby anymore!) very soon! Kind husband. Awesome daughters. Sweet cat. Adorable chickens. Copious amounts of flowers around me. All the high I need.</p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">How was your April? Was the weather normal for you? As it warms up what are you looking forward to? What are you watching?</p>TheRedolentMermaidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12025330454820306972noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2810618299009561680.post-80479268389030916912022-04-15T07:00:00.099-04:002022-04-15T07:00:00.174-04:00Arcana Wildcraft: Nectar and Crossing <p style="text-align: center;"> <i>Julia sent these perfumes as a gift.</i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnL7IuL_Y4altzKHI_iJ__uRxJzZgSVilHg3l8FD0U1274QotuNl78ufIjw4HCox2y45WThyLmXDBrLHTYsKmha00f4ng8z2BlB0SKxo3eXACuV3hwSrn8f_zmJmLSgXL5ZBJo6ZXxJopOwEFY0GIchgNDwU6SHN7d-mBZR1hcEFHZkS1PWtsxfnHb/s2873/20220402-DSC_0065.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2873" data-original-width="1910" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnL7IuL_Y4altzKHI_iJ__uRxJzZgSVilHg3l8FD0U1274QotuNl78ufIjw4HCox2y45WThyLmXDBrLHTYsKmha00f4ng8z2BlB0SKxo3eXACuV3hwSrn8f_zmJmLSgXL5ZBJo6ZXxJopOwEFY0GIchgNDwU6SHN7d-mBZR1hcEFHZkS1PWtsxfnHb/w426-h640/20220402-DSC_0065.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Julia at <a href="https://arcanawildcraft.com/collections/pax" target="_blank">Arcana Wildcraf</a>t released these two perfumes as a fundraiser for Ukraine under the collection Pax, proceeds donated to help refugees from the war. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Crossing-</b> <i>Notes: The soft earth of home, a swath of incense-infused linen, unsweetened violets, dark stones, freesia, purple iris ocean tides, rich olibanum resin, a whisper of leather, and ultra sheer patchouli. $26</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">In the bottle it smells like crossing a brook in the springtime. Tender green and purple violets spring underfoot at the edge of the water, icy cool pebbles shimmer in bronze and silver, carelessly tossed like coins, embraced by the mud and silt. The water undulates, pulses, and rushes past carrying leaves, petals, and silvers of silver minnows. Fresh. Cleansing. Calming. On the skin this is an exquisite iris perfume. Julia truly outdid herself on this one. The hazy iris and gauzy incense flutter around the soil stained hem of Mother Nature's gown. If dryads dwelled in secret hollows where creeks thread and iris and violet dance under oaken canopies then this is what they smell of. The leather and frankincense resin elevate this scent from being purely earthen to ethereal as well. As it transitions along its journey the leather and iris entwine effortlessly, it is floral and subdued, delicate and ghostly. I feel like a vintage starlet wearing this. Don't sleep on this one. It is absolutely stunning.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrkslZEHVUWHZtIVwZHInGIDPopR1D_D3yrhxjo70Iz_1BGpDeNAm73AvcrCDYgFh3cEVCUJ_piiZfkpMGw4vrFDTEzjT4VqqxuAxDWKxPnC_gYix8suowRB_r0d2s2G8oDq1B-pT88UDiHj-F5fZQgSRM3LZwKnB9ZvDMIJnq1m9JiPP7cUF6PG37/s2826/20220402-DSC_0062.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2826" data-original-width="1879" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrkslZEHVUWHZtIVwZHInGIDPopR1D_D3yrhxjo70Iz_1BGpDeNAm73AvcrCDYgFh3cEVCUJ_piiZfkpMGw4vrFDTEzjT4VqqxuAxDWKxPnC_gYix8suowRB_r0d2s2G8oDq1B-pT88UDiHj-F5fZQgSRM3LZwKnB9ZvDMIJnq1m9JiPP7cUF6PG37/w426-h640/20220402-DSC_0062.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Nectar-</b> <i>Notes: Ripe, plump blackberries and creme de cassis with sheer summery georgette, cold swirls of vanilla ice cream, a tuft of tender lambswool, and a field of softly blooming sunflowers on a nearby hillside. $26</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Holy crow. This one is divine straight from the bottle. Julia was NOT playing around with those blackberries. They are intense. Sweet, fruity, deep and dark. They are fresh-picked, macerated with sugar, jammy with nectar and ready to spoon onto a mound of custardy ice cream. Wet on the skin the blackberries do not disappoint. They are just as plump and lush out of the bottle and graced on the flesh. The black currants lend a tart bite to the tail end of the sugary berry that adds a dimension of hyper realism. There are other nuances to the blackberries but this is definitely a situation where the sum is more than the parts. There is a hint of creaminess, a touch of sunlit, the glint of something lovely seen form the corner of an eye, like a prism or a butterfly wing. Nectar must be how bees see their flavors, how butterflies feel the perfume of petals, how birdsong harmonizes with the wind. It is all the sweetness that spills out of an embrace, out of the wombs of flowers, that feeds the gods and nourishes our tastebuds. Simply delicious.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Feel good about smelling good. Pick these up when you get a chance.You won't regret it.</div><br /><p></p>TheRedolentMermaidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12025330454820306972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2810618299009561680.post-829471378314854042022-04-14T07:00:00.005-04:002022-04-14T07:00:00.164-04:00Sihaya & Company: (Not So) Dark Ages Dream Box <p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgniNz45S3vIJLvZanDc5pFBWe5JoznlTdKVdkNzeq9QwEwfzCneonfy5jeRE9IqCLS7dsUIEjOpjqjiW0ivQlUpdg3fdxDY_ILvJqLJZKYm3A3zjY-fTdM-B9wBL4vSxh8TpM-v8CE3gg8f7DbvhfLJNOliGz1wkylYM8ghRGyzW9OJliSAfniSWJ6/s3008/20220402-DSC_0047.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgniNz45S3vIJLvZanDc5pFBWe5JoznlTdKVdkNzeq9QwEwfzCneonfy5jeRE9IqCLS7dsUIEjOpjqjiW0ivQlUpdg3fdxDY_ILvJqLJZKYm3A3zjY-fTdM-B9wBL4vSxh8TpM-v8CE3gg8f7DbvhfLJNOliGz1wkylYM8ghRGyzW9OJliSAfniSWJ6/w640-h426/20220402-DSC_0047.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">There really is nothing like some classic creepy medieval times art. I love that <a href="https://sihayaandcompany.com/" target="_blank">Sihaya & Company</a> curated a dream box that revolved around this very topic. The (Not So) Dark Ages box was brimming with tongue-in-cheek naughty frivolity that would go perfectly with the jangly buzzing sounds of a hurdy gurdy. This spring box was $65 and packed with goodness.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmQ4yNURWM2e5YsHuIs_OQkDCkS5WKax8QA_nwf_9FtrYQU_CqyOImV-3v-GjsDpt0j9PRBkRtGNqhjc1FBdebDc9fwt40eBzxoXGo_28QzN5Ic7LZttlQhgqU0Hfh9QFkP7xBt2GdTM9ClQ5ihUYdd3nKh3m6qXZ4Pq21ctZaSkjZtyb1L8NYErO5/s2952/20220402-DSC_0048.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1963" data-original-width="2952" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmQ4yNURWM2e5YsHuIs_OQkDCkS5WKax8QA_nwf_9FtrYQU_CqyOImV-3v-GjsDpt0j9PRBkRtGNqhjc1FBdebDc9fwt40eBzxoXGo_28QzN5Ic7LZttlQhgqU0Hfh9QFkP7xBt2GdTM9ClQ5ihUYdd3nKh3m6qXZ4Pq21ctZaSkjZtyb1L8NYErO5/w640-h426/20220402-DSC_0048.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Three amazing notecards with envelopes came from <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/BinghamandBloom" target="_blank">Bingham and Bloom on Etsy</a>. One notecard is $3.09, which is about $9.25 plus shipping for three. These are great quality cards. Bright jewel-tones, sturdy cardstock and excellent graphics. I look forward to gifting these to some quirky friends and family who will appreciate the humor.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The grey cat licking its butt reminds me fondly of my own cat, Toddles. This enamel pin is from <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/PSBrooksIllustration" target="_blank">P S Brooks Illustration on Etsy</a> and runs $6.12. I cannot wait to put this on my backpack.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2XQ6qzWpv5xRQhebbLAX-HL38mXa1vIMxr60n0be9DPXZP6PnvBDkosuw6B00DXljCeHh5eq4EQ0ZlKIJaGArQ5DXYksIRezZmyGXQ-GjKHEOZVCFajYDhFRtyT0jhZEYKAjRhv6rL1aY5OCx-IkNf1JDUD0j-JTJ1JTLFmCy-WZz0O3h_s5VrDqT/s2920/20220402-DSC_0049.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1941" data-original-width="2920" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2XQ6qzWpv5xRQhebbLAX-HL38mXa1vIMxr60n0be9DPXZP6PnvBDkosuw6B00DXljCeHh5eq4EQ0ZlKIJaGArQ5DXYksIRezZmyGXQ-GjKHEOZVCFajYDhFRtyT0jhZEYKAjRhv6rL1aY5OCx-IkNf1JDUD0j-JTJ1JTLFmCy-WZz0O3h_s5VrDqT/w640-h426/20220402-DSC_0049.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I love when a bag of <a href="https://dryadtea.com/" target="_blank">Dryad Tea</a> comes in the box. One ounce of loose leaf Strawberry Imp can be purchased on their website for $7.00. This is a fruity and bright tea that will taste incredible as iced tea during the summer, gently sweetened with honey. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlrgLhmAaBJfvR9TIHYc_O6nkdZgI_iY1EUXBZc_e_EbhM67iysiybBcD3UVZved9YMwhNIrh5TZZvQyIsLcd7o7YUZq-L0NQHSb1SRCbLNzkrLuR4JnoR5Up_Qs6qMiC95Zn0zo9C9Zlxj8XEktn-uFtYkqW9gQuiNdlaOgMW-cJ2KazHml8VOfBM/s3008/20220402-DSC_0050.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlrgLhmAaBJfvR9TIHYc_O6nkdZgI_iY1EUXBZc_e_EbhM67iysiybBcD3UVZved9YMwhNIrh5TZZvQyIsLcd7o7YUZq-L0NQHSb1SRCbLNzkrLuR4JnoR5Up_Qs6qMiC95Zn0zo9C9Zlxj8XEktn-uFtYkqW9gQuiNdlaOgMW-cJ2KazHml8VOfBM/w640-h426/20220402-DSC_0050.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The body care items were lively and perfect for a spring awakening. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://paintboxsoapworks.com/" target="_blank">Paintbox Soapworks</a> Sorbetto sugar scrub in Illuminated Dick Joke- </b><i>Notes: A proud shaft of ruddy cedar and cypress showered in orange blossom honey and red musk, gilded in amber. 8.4 ounces is about $9.16</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I enjoy Paintbox Soapworks sugar scrubs. The sugar particulate is on the larger side, allowing for longer and more effective scrubbing. The texture is very thick and grainy when scooped and emulsifies beautifully when scrubbed in with water. It provides a bit of lathering and rinses clean, leaving behind soft and smooth skin. I enjoy picking up a ton of the sample size scrubs in several different scents just for fun when I can. I always throw in a bar or two of the soap as well. I really should start blogging my PBSW hauls. I think I have some still wrapped up. Anyway, this scent is gorgeous. The woods and musk are papery and elegant. While the honey and amber smooth it out a bit without making it sweet. A wonderful scrub to use any time of year.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://dreamingtreeworkshop.com/" target="_blank">Dreaming Tree Workshop </a>Magical Luxury Soap in Totally Not A Witch-</b> <i>Notes: A bewitching blend of jasmine, herbs, black tea, incense and cauldron smoke. $8.50</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I love Dreaming Tree soaps. This bar is lovely! I love the dried flowers and subtle sparkle on top, the rustic texture, and the beautiful soft smoky floral scent. It really does smell like the wake of a witch's robe as she twirls about. It lathered up with some friction with tiny bouncy bubbles and a buttery texture. The soap rinsed squeaky clean leaving only a tiny bit of grab behind and no residue. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://deconstructingeden.net/" target="_blank">Deconstructing Eden</a> Sex or Cake- </b><i>Notes: Inspired by Struffoli, deep fried balls of citrus zest spiked dough, drenched in honey, and dusted with hazelnuts. 5ml is $9.75</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This 5ml parfum extrait came in a sleek black box with a window. It is a spray bottle with a gorgeous label. Sprayed on the skin the citrus zest springs up, sparkling and energetic. Quickly the velvety cocoa aroma of hazelnuts slinks in and you know you are in for one of <i>those </i>desserts. The moaning, sighing, lip licking type. Creamy honey and silken textures shoulder any hints of chocolate out of the way. This is a gooey baked vanilla treat dripping with golden caramel honey. It settled down to smell of vanilla tobacco and chewy vanilla amber. Lovely.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimI85lenXUOX0Lgo4o8fxMCxHgLiqS3PjkHARQX0Hpul_CGtBl6jp-kBGCQUegSKFAQE6AgzW-ks8LjSkfDE2_XeA5GoU1OVMyhAk15fIDwHM9cu7HnYqNGNdkEmUrVHerHKchMGZ5SUBhCwiJg6A8zzRUPwaBJ9BACIOJGcqDseVlrfDNjdwQYPjC/s3008/20220402-DSC_0053.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimI85lenXUOX0Lgo4o8fxMCxHgLiqS3PjkHARQX0Hpul_CGtBl6jp-kBGCQUegSKFAQE6AgzW-ks8LjSkfDE2_XeA5GoU1OVMyhAk15fIDwHM9cu7HnYqNGNdkEmUrVHerHKchMGZ5SUBhCwiJg6A8zzRUPwaBJ9BACIOJGcqDseVlrfDNjdwQYPjC/w640-h426/20220402-DSC_0053.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Sihaya & Company Murder Bunny candle-</b> <i>Notes: Decadent shortbread cookies, topped with costly marchpane, then paired with a rich red berry jam. $13</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">On cold sniff this has a putty like quality from the marzipan, but once burned it morphs more into sweet vanilla sugar cookies. There is the merest hint of berry candy but the vanilla cookie is most noticeable to my nose. It was a great candle that burned perfectly. I do recommend that the wick is trimmed before each burning so that it burns evenly and doesn't produce soot. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Sihaya & Company Moisturizing Lip Color in Earthly Delights</b> which is described as a warm rosy peach shot through with delicate rose gold shimmer. $6.50 I love Christina's lip colors. This one leans pinky nude on my skin tone and makes an ideal spring time blush on my lips, like pale ballerina slippers. The slip is cushiony and the pigment lasts a few hours. </div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi88dB_PK61WkQyXdEDCYnwGPe1pWcYRFzLd7knKa4RFH2ZMWIUmtCoCcJjYyAB4cOvJbHS9---cbt0iZ7AXZerJo2KH7cNlFT-Jfr3q0-rXjaFqdVZK-6VRr--hKa25FFwibMwaMaTylFFQ38i4n_-x9xqD_2_2ghhCAWxql8zSsQpkizKLZn7x6Lp/s3008/20220402-DSC_0055.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi88dB_PK61WkQyXdEDCYnwGPe1pWcYRFzLd7knKa4RFH2ZMWIUmtCoCcJjYyAB4cOvJbHS9---cbt0iZ7AXZerJo2KH7cNlFT-Jfr3q0-rXjaFqdVZK-6VRr--hKa25FFwibMwaMaTylFFQ38i4n_-x9xqD_2_2ghhCAWxql8zSsQpkizKLZn7x6Lp/w640-h426/20220402-DSC_0055.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />Sad that this candle is already a part of history. I did use it all up with frequent evening burning.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyhnOUDZoD1QuXj9CrtXvt2JVils90UXMBnqATMNxsoByf412c1MvAVx41KK9QIgbdpYJL1L9WM7wFRPMdl_Ln-xT-dtplerL0MXtAQlz3sSjXHt2oC1dq3gTOscRScPyYwm67Bf2n8Di397AGQuajdxfcqHbTiUoRoVxjbXKRDqnZYx-tatSg9SiX/s2870/20220402-DSC_0058.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1909" data-original-width="2870" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyhnOUDZoD1QuXj9CrtXvt2JVils90UXMBnqATMNxsoByf412c1MvAVx41KK9QIgbdpYJL1L9WM7wFRPMdl_Ln-xT-dtplerL0MXtAQlz3sSjXHt2oC1dq3gTOscRScPyYwm67Bf2n8Di397AGQuajdxfcqHbTiUoRoVxjbXKRDqnZYx-tatSg9SiX/w640-h426/20220402-DSC_0058.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This is a box well worth the money. The time, creativity, and passion that all the makers put into this was obvious. I loved the theme, the goodies, and the joy of opening this up. I will be visiting these shops in the future for sure. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This box made me want to read more medieval historical fiction. Any recommendations?</div><p></p>TheRedolentMermaidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12025330454820306972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2810618299009561680.post-10339775224521154072022-04-08T07:00:00.001-04:002022-04-08T07:00:00.193-04:00MoonaLisa: Various 5ml Perfumes<p style="text-align: center;"> I have a few more<a href="https://mooscents.com/" target="_blank"> MoonaLisa</a> scents I would love to chat about. These, like the 3mls I previously discussed, are from past orders within the last couple years. These are from fall/Halloween and winter/Yule. The 5mls are priced same as 3mls, at $15.95 each. These come in a roller-ball format. I have not had any leaking issues and I love the label artwork.<br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj5XU2zpvORcDjZpvwOvUBtAJx4omOommrXYO8M2lmslKIgLmUOowKMqjSLqtNBRoU-I0uNKFK2BqsJhBUz05BCQaHAwQwckK3J46HjzaltypMkwKDN1KGkrdfLrnae-6OKKqpMq1FexYaGhwz077ACtc3EorHbqa4w-XzPRXeyKRyZ9tbqiZ-BAeqi=s2989" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1988" data-original-width="2989" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj5XU2zpvORcDjZpvwOvUBtAJx4omOommrXYO8M2lmslKIgLmUOowKMqjSLqtNBRoU-I0uNKFK2BqsJhBUz05BCQaHAwQwckK3J46HjzaltypMkwKDN1KGkrdfLrnae-6OKKqpMq1FexYaGhwz077ACtc3EorHbqa4w-XzPRXeyKRyZ9tbqiZ-BAeqi=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Wicked Woods-</b> <i>Notes: Just like Wicked Woods should, this scent morphs each time you go through it. It's woody and its wicked.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sweet amber sap drips bulbous tears of sugary resin down the trunks of gnarled trees. This haunted forest is toothsome with vanilla woods. Some you pass may be honeyed spruce, while others you glide by are fashioned of frosted sandalwood. Smooth, dulcet, and dreamy. This lasted about 3-4 hours on my skin with moderate sillage.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Witch Wood-</b> <i>Notes: Deep in the dark, dark woods you see dancing women around a fire with aromatic herbs and spices burning of patchouli, cinnamon, and cedarwood, and brewed with Siberian musk.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Smoky patchouli and fiery cinnamon have me in raptures. I am weak for this combination and Witch Wood delivers. As the warm cinnamon and aged patchouli slow down to a simmer, the witchy herbs offer a subtle greenness while a musk starts to slink in from the background. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Witchery-</b> <i>Notes: Sultry ambers, woods, and magic!</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This scent starts out just like the dry and flaking chunks of bark that are the deep valleys and wide crumbling plateaus of the tree's skin. As the scent morphs the dusty wood gains the warmth of aged cupboard spice and dried patchouli leaves. It wears light and airy, a faint aura about the body.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Bohemian Velvet-</b> <i>Notes: Sandalwood, patchouli, and nag champa incense notes. </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I love this scent. I first got this in the body powder several years ago. I then picked it up in the wonderful wax tars MoonaLisa used to make. It is a lovely high end metaphysical store scent, crowded with handcrafted incense sticks of all varieties, dried herbs and flowers scattered about in abalone bowls and crinkling in organza sachets. Magical oils and spell candles line the shelves, emitting their own effluvia to add to the bouquet. Happy to have this as a perfume to slather on and evoke ritual.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEipX_HxWsNxQImJsvRcFR0cQf6gy5EwuWNyIpa9JYQY_btvWZjCcWlYHPxk0wQ62PjY4s5XPRPR4aXNpDbqXya-JhWcvH40q5mkesOJ8lucS903Xwb2-QqDEo_nRz7EfCyEUF7qZba6MuRZRCFqzEDDCSB6qP6X8Ogcbf9_kXOyAd6TvgGJKagrAZJP=s3008" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEipX_HxWsNxQImJsvRcFR0cQf6gy5EwuWNyIpa9JYQY_btvWZjCcWlYHPxk0wQ62PjY4s5XPRPR4aXNpDbqXya-JhWcvH40q5mkesOJ8lucS903Xwb2-QqDEo_nRz7EfCyEUF7qZba6MuRZRCFqzEDDCSB6qP6X8Ogcbf9_kXOyAd6TvgGJKagrAZJP=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Kris Kringle-</b> <i>Notes: Blend of various woodland accords, Yuletide spices, vetiver, and Douglas fir essential oil.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The woods, cinnamon, and nutmeg emerge with a tang of dank darkness, like the ghostly corners of the cupboards that used to house cakes and breads but now only have a scattering of crumbs within. The vetiver is spooky, skanky and moody. It gives Kris Kringle a bit of a goblin grin to his gnomish face. Eventually the vetiver slinks back to the corners and the spices and firs really get their chance to shine. I love this festive scent. It has depth and a touch of mischievousness behind the festivity.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Sugared Forest- </b><i>Notes: Sugared spruce, frosted berries, and fir trees.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Wet on the skin the berries are saturated in cherry and strawberry reds. The cherry quickly fades, allowing the strawberry to fold beautifully into the sweet candied spruce. This jubilant and jolly scent will be worn all year long on my skin. I love sweet sugary evergreen scents. As it dries down a creamy vanilla rounds out the dulcet balsams. There is a touch of cherry-almond putty somewhere in there but I am curious if it will age out.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Elspeth-</b> <i>Notes: A magical and sweet blend of French vanilla, marshmallows, romantic ambers, and smoldering embers.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I usually enjoy aging my ambers for a year or so before wearing. I have so much perfume, that the time passes before I know it by the time I get around to it anyway. Wet on the skin the amber in this is warm and sandy, sweet and gritty like sugar between the teeth. An edge of cinder hovers around the vanilla amber, giving it a bite of mystery. I can tell Elspeth and I will get to be fast friends in the next year or so. Until then, she will linger in the armoire. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Shire-</b><i> Notes: Rich soil, earthy bark, dried grasses, stones, and pinecones. </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I love this scent. I had this in some bath salts ages ago (back when I had tub time). This smells like Christmas in a Hobbit hole. Sweet soil, bayberry, the cool mineral perfume of chilled winter stones and swags of evergreen and holly to grace the doorways.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Krampus Night-</b><i> Notes: Various dry woods including birch, blended with a touch of silken white wool and suede, sweet smoldering resinous embers, with a touch of wet blackened earth.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A dark smoky delight. The red hot coals of a recently banked fire flicker and glimmer in the pale moonlight. The primitive outdoor revelry may have quieted down but something still lurks in the night. The woods whisper of spices and sacred frankincense beads hanging in golden nuggets, treasures to entice and lure. I love the melding of the fire and frankincense. It is raw and powerful. A really moving scent.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My favorites are Shire, Krampus Night, Kris Kringle, Elspeth, Wicked Woods, and Bohemian Velvet. But I will happily wear them all. My recent MoonaLisa order for spring perfumes should be arriving soon. I still have a few EDPs I plan on reviewing here in the future. I also picked up some of the tarot perfumes from her and a tarot mystery bag. She will be opening soon for bath and body care according to her latest newsletter. Hope you guys are having a good week. We have been getting some storms around here and I love it. The plants love it too.</div><p></p>TheRedolentMermaidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12025330454820306972noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2810618299009561680.post-36668396627322035692022-04-05T07:00:00.001-04:002022-04-05T07:00:00.221-04:00Empire Alchemy Wax: First Order, Maiden Voyage<p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOOahalaCa_araI_UHoGEZHGIz0WoTECJuE0CKAifpvIZqhSBafi7Aj0h91yjgi9lOeD4ZRhfBtq_q9g6mZVsFwWSrNmnTXWAzonz0ie6glOgX-01mVcebBkQ9_MiVs5YLvKW-Z97nYUJklg2bUrI92oHD5AKrDSa07erSCTn9X5_HOL5swLHpvLiw/s3008/20220402-DSC_0066.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOOahalaCa_araI_UHoGEZHGIz0WoTECJuE0CKAifpvIZqhSBafi7Aj0h91yjgi9lOeD4ZRhfBtq_q9g6mZVsFwWSrNmnTXWAzonz0ie6glOgX-01mVcebBkQ9_MiVs5YLvKW-Z97nYUJklg2bUrI92oHD5AKrDSa07erSCTn9X5_HOL5swLHpvLiw/w640-h426/20220402-DSC_0066.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.empirealchemywax.com/" target="_blank">Empire Alchemy</a> wax has been around for a while now and I have heard many good things about it. Once in a while I would get a few pieces from friends and enjoy what I melted. I got the urge to buy some wax recently so I placed an order. These were delivered in about a week or so. Wax bars were $3.77, waffles $5.80, donuts $6.23. These were two orders that were combined. I like that the labels have all the scent notes listed.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd8ncijDDGLjEL4IMOESZ80dp9-iwBpqHeFbr1cKzosua0IeeLQ3wMvLjvMkk4h24lrJUJjjR5rAaAVoN3JiffhhUWpJeVWPyXMDX7qIq8oORABtOLnJ0AqLXHxRFKzpSUxHG5doG3I4QlK8xJM94aozSWDnmdjSKYIvRWIIzgI0_c-hB36QT4mvJ8/s3008/20220402-DSC_0067.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd8ncijDDGLjEL4IMOESZ80dp9-iwBpqHeFbr1cKzosua0IeeLQ3wMvLjvMkk4h24lrJUJjjR5rAaAVoN3JiffhhUWpJeVWPyXMDX7qIq8oORABtOLnJ0AqLXHxRFKzpSUxHG5doG3I4QlK8xJM94aozSWDnmdjSKYIvRWIIzgI0_c-hB36QT4mvJ8/w640-h426/20220402-DSC_0067.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Heartbreaker-</b> <i>Notes: Rosewood, jungle vines, charred marshmallow woods.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A stunning marshmallow and woods scent. The marshmallow comes off like a marshmallow vanilla musk, while the woods are plush and elegant, perhaps smoky. An upscale marshmallow fireside type of aroma.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Sleepy Time Tea-</b> <i>Notes: Chamomile, lemongrass, hints of green soothing peppermint.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I figured I would love this one. It smells exactly like the Extra Sleepy tea I drink from Celestial Seasonings. The peppermint is chilly while the chamomile and lemongrass lend a calming herbal greenness. The is almost something quietly aquatic about this blend that speaks of tea. Lovely.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl36X8ArkbYHS_qy6SKGWwpCIgcHTLTgvKigIOqh9tGVlQ1Y3vzstaCXKf1uuAR5O4M9NGMoofVYHM-YA7wwHSeR3bqEN1rQur5A5Uj67mRBHWh5f0mRQWAt99pVU7BKAEB_AyKqV3X-2ldhWCj2x2na2y9gyZ6yRoY0_QLlOKI7IArIe-9c-cjtNg/s3008/20220402-DSC_0068.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl36X8ArkbYHS_qy6SKGWwpCIgcHTLTgvKigIOqh9tGVlQ1Y3vzstaCXKf1uuAR5O4M9NGMoofVYHM-YA7wwHSeR3bqEN1rQur5A5Uj67mRBHWh5f0mRQWAt99pVU7BKAEB_AyKqV3X-2ldhWCj2x2na2y9gyZ6yRoY0_QLlOKI7IArIe-9c-cjtNg/w640-h426/20220402-DSC_0068.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Capistrano Beach-</b> <i>Notes: Cocoa butter, cashmere, sun tan lotion, vetiver, and sea salt.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This blend is creamy with cocoa butter and smooth with perfumed musk. There is a touch of seaside lingering in there with the seagrass vetiver and the murky salty air. It is a compelling scent.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Memento Mori-</b> <i>Notes: Black amber, frankincense, myrrh, and dark linen.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Serene and clean. A nice take on a fresh scent without being overly detergent. Those linens and resins really pair well together. This is a perfect spring cleaning day scent for my tastes.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWA8qilLuAVzg9Pt0eCgSXqCjWAyyuTR_iZwmUOJQ0WzigyfGftzWbK2oN9OGjTVvQU1pYuGdC9KIdyHRMYTtk52OnglnJiT7tji6X2GY5o42eBJeX99JgTT9kxhQ0PLz4N3dMtvnewkcuQt09WnDJE93IKmbFGK8L2uO7eV9w7C4ijqJCAtWm9GQE/s3008/20220402-DSC_0070.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWA8qilLuAVzg9Pt0eCgSXqCjWAyyuTR_iZwmUOJQ0WzigyfGftzWbK2oN9OGjTVvQU1pYuGdC9KIdyHRMYTtk52OnglnJiT7tji6X2GY5o42eBJeX99JgTT9kxhQ0PLz4N3dMtvnewkcuQt09WnDJE93IKmbFGK8L2uO7eV9w7C4ijqJCAtWm9GQE/w640-h426/20220402-DSC_0070.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Good King Winceslaus- </b><i>Notes: Cinnamon sugared buttercream cupcakes, palo santo wood shavings, bonfire. </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Is it Winceslaus? Wenceslaus? I have no idea, but either way I am loving it. Chewy delicious snickerdoodle cookies and the smoky coconut woods scent of palo santo. Together they smell like nocturnal fireside comforts. Desserts and treats savored beside the flickering flames in winter.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Old Church-</b> <i>Notes: Incense, frankincense, dark woods, amber, and cotton tree. </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Divine. Probably my favorite scent in the box. The incense is softly smoky and resinous while the amber and woods impart a subtle sweetness and cozy warmth. It is fresh, elegant, and something I would wear in a perfume in a heartbeat.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcrZ0hakN2n4LY-xiXDLUiEPuYMmD3O6ggjIWwfD6du_OEZPc6DMszx112YDKWGFsfwwc5e8QAOciWNJwTBm12aycD4c5wfRtBzMk5qOFh9j_-QUG6tm_9I7QhqQO4rZEGF8jP-KlwLjFlJhuyemsO5_Yqda9xWePYXqEV1ALDWCuj1cKZj1qhbQgV/s3008/20220402-DSC_0071.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcrZ0hakN2n4LY-xiXDLUiEPuYMmD3O6ggjIWwfD6du_OEZPc6DMszx112YDKWGFsfwwc5e8QAOciWNJwTBm12aycD4c5wfRtBzMk5qOFh9j_-QUG6tm_9I7QhqQO4rZEGF8jP-KlwLjFlJhuyemsO5_Yqda9xWePYXqEV1ALDWCuj1cKZj1qhbQgV/w640-h426/20220402-DSC_0071.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Fall Vibes-</b> <i>Notes: Dried figs, whipped cream, raspberry black tea, cinnamon guiacwood, vanilla ice cream.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">What a blend of notes. On cold I mostly get the raspberry tea, figs and creaminess. I melted two cubes in my warmer in the kitchen and they threw medium to medium-light. The scent was lovely. A creamy dark scent with that raspberry tea fruitiness lending some glimmers of magenta. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Vanilla Crumb Donut-</b> <i>Notes: House blend donut hint cinnamon sugar.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A mildly sweet donut scent that reads on the light side on cold sniff, but there is a touch of tortilla chip on the edges. Need to melt it soon to see how it plays out.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu9IslZtOsVCTO30MGVZWLrouyWRapQobqmiuLuG8prIemB7xL0vbJnhiuTsOrJkcmwJxZnWEJMiy6SQyjJxQHmHtfEbSt4LLrnAlC6cIWy2M0R3FYhmrPWwQZoQc275cJi_-uYSCNBwhEjcF8QBMSObPrj_gvWMMBy953cg_w6KYpLKloX79KUiI4/s3008/20220402-DSC_0072.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu9IslZtOsVCTO30MGVZWLrouyWRapQobqmiuLuG8prIemB7xL0vbJnhiuTsOrJkcmwJxZnWEJMiy6SQyjJxQHmHtfEbSt4LLrnAlC6cIWy2M0R3FYhmrPWwQZoQc275cJi_-uYSCNBwhEjcF8QBMSObPrj_gvWMMBy953cg_w6KYpLKloX79KUiI4/w640-h426/20220402-DSC_0072.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Goose Down-</b> <i>Notes: Mangoes, lemon, white tea, light rain, cherry blossoms, vanilla lace.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Citrusy sweet mangoes and fruity white tea bloom to the forefront while the blossoms frame the background. It is a puckery and bouncy scent. Perfect for summer.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Sun Kiss-</b> <i>Notes: Fresh mango, pineapple chunks, fresh air, palm trees.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This is a greenery heavy scent with hints of banana, plumeria, and tropical fruits. The fresh air keeps this from being too much like a fruit salad and more of a tropical fruity-floral from Bath & Body Works. It is pretty.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Pink Moon Milk-</b> <i>Notes: Crushed raspberry, rose petals, vanilla bean, milk sugar, toasted pistachio cake. </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Reminds me of fruity cereal and milk at first, must be the raspberries and milk sugar combined with the pistachio. I don't normally gravitate towards milk scents but wanted to try one out. This will be fun to melt.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG3QR8o2nXTHL3lujh0ukq3uYIdOv-U-QRW0-anjGtHuI62c7KrUL-V24-NVmBAenrX-slpnMBFTRz3m79p1rVHICVOW1OaQ1NQAC0YuzYWMPLld0IWHbkuqBrJiOQtfpT1n3c7KAfk9SKZ4L-Qxu1iaHaV6zcDffCPUG9NvyMpeizwSwYoXrq-rJ3/s3008/20220402-DSC_0075.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG3QR8o2nXTHL3lujh0ukq3uYIdOv-U-QRW0-anjGtHuI62c7KrUL-V24-NVmBAenrX-slpnMBFTRz3m79p1rVHICVOW1OaQ1NQAC0YuzYWMPLld0IWHbkuqBrJiOQtfpT1n3c7KAfk9SKZ4L-Qxu1iaHaV6zcDffCPUG9NvyMpeizwSwYoXrq-rJ3/w640-h426/20220402-DSC_0075.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Lovely Loaf</b>-<i> Notes: Vanilla, candied ginger, golden raisins, dried fig, apple, cedarwood, swirling leaves. </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My oldest was doing geometry on the bed with me when I was going through these scents. She started picking them up and giving her two cents (she didn't care for the Pink Moon Milk) but she loved this one. She said it reminded her of our house during the fall time. Pretty good nose since she didn't even check the notes. It is a really nice autumnal scent. The apples and figs play beautifully with the leaves and woods and touch of vanilla. Great blend. Threw medium-light.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Amish Cinnamon Bread-</b> <i>Notes: Scrumptious baked notes of vanilla cinnamon sugar.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I love the cinnamon vanilla sugar spices in this one but the chippy bready note really does not sit well on my nose. I had a sample of this scent and melted it first and it threw strong but I did not come to like it. I will be gifting this to a heavy bakery lover.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6Re3FqU-aFUFkkn-KLVUMKq2GZTl4yTKfBy0740aBH2V_jHh92eLOlSmbW4DsAdgaQgm5ahs_EyfOLa0IqX1OPhIG1QvRxb1f6q8BHJN0X18PsfxGLCKGrT3kYFfGsf5OO81bWtEpgrxpEfvPvd7GX_B7pLZ0o6MqPaWBdLv_77pN_bEJmIcROOLK/s3008/20220402-DSC_0076.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6Re3FqU-aFUFkkn-KLVUMKq2GZTl4yTKfBy0740aBH2V_jHh92eLOlSmbW4DsAdgaQgm5ahs_EyfOLa0IqX1OPhIG1QvRxb1f6q8BHJN0X18PsfxGLCKGrT3kYFfGsf5OO81bWtEpgrxpEfvPvd7GX_B7pLZ0o6MqPaWBdLv_77pN_bEJmIcROOLK/w640-h426/20220402-DSC_0076.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Cocoa Butter + Peppermint-</b> <i>Notes: Creamy vanilla, cocoa butter, sweet peppermint.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My second favorite of the bunch. This minty creamy blend is like a mixture of buttermints and cocoa butter and I am here for it.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Green Tea + Apple-</b> <i>Notes: Green tea, apple, dry leaves, tangerine peel.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A lovely scent brimming with energy. The tangerine is on point and comes out to play first. Then the sharpness of the green tea lurks underneath like an after taste. This will be enjoyable to melt.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I really appreciate the innovative blends this house offers. You can tell the maker really loves playing with mixing and blending. They have quite a nose. I also love the shapes, offerings, labels and design. So far the throw has been hit or miss, but that is normal. Not all scents throw consistently. I will keep melting and enjoying these unique blends.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Do you have any favorites from Empire Alchemy Wax? What types of scents have you been craving? I am loving strawberries and apples lately.</div><br /><p></p>TheRedolentMermaidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12025330454820306972noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2810618299009561680.post-40129012472988846712022-03-31T07:00:00.001-04:002022-03-31T07:00:00.183-04:00Ebb & Flow: March 2022<p style="text-align: center;"> <i>The highs and lows of the month.</i></p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVXvgWmoQ3E7m6s-6chDexjE4kTfW6fmvTRnJzYqN73vlb_pxB20nzaJHAa2XNoEEx0c4eVhXLv329zqxOHINd4KA7Cz139uRjh1uK7wwnvTr7nIbx-H-y0f9mv50QaKN_gmhv6X0ACZntGGOmhlCudEExRIzxmf7dBSA7kCvJtgxCsnqOx8SuExEo/s2616/20220317-DSC_0007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1679" data-original-width="2616" height="410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVXvgWmoQ3E7m6s-6chDexjE4kTfW6fmvTRnJzYqN73vlb_pxB20nzaJHAa2XNoEEx0c4eVhXLv329zqxOHINd4KA7Cz139uRjh1uK7wwnvTr7nIbx-H-y0f9mv50QaKN_gmhv6X0ACZntGGOmhlCudEExRIzxmf7dBSA7kCvJtgxCsnqOx8SuExEo/w640-h410/20220317-DSC_0007.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Perfume:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">MoonaLisa Cedarwood and Patchouli EDP (all natural, I love it)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Perfume Oil:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Arcana Wildcraft Strawberries Crave Waterfalls and Nocturne Alchemy Wisteria Petal Ice Cream</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Body Butter:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Future Primitive Campfire Marshmallows</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Soap:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Future Primitive Tobacconist bar soap</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Shampoo:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Future Primitive original shampoo bar</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Conditioner:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Future Primitive Clotted Peach Cream hair rinse</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Skin Care:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Blood Moon Botanica Moon Dew mixed with Forest & Fjord Deep Forest serum</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Lip Balm:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">For Strange Women Baba Yaga </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Candle:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Bath and Body Works White Tea and Sage</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Wax:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Candles From the Keeping Room strawberry blends</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Eating:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sumo oranges, Jelly Bean grapes, soy sauce and butter flavored Pocky stick type things</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Drinking:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Water, Coffee, Doctor D's probiotic kombucha in crisp apple</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Reading:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <u>Snow White, Blood Red</u> short stories of dark, horror fairy tales</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Watching:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Seinfeld</i> with the girls, my first barred owl in our own backyard, flowers blooming everywhere</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Listening:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">John Denver's greatest hits on vinyl all the time while cooking.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Awaiting:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Library book sale this coming weekend, more wildflowers to bloom so I can make mini bouquets to tuck all around the house, and the next Candles From the Keeping Room opening.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Dreading:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Mosquitoes (already being attacked), state testing at school, dealing with the insurance companies over my health stuff and hospital stay. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Hit:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The mystery box of crystals I ordered from The Spirit Nectar off of Etsy. They were amazing!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Miss:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Mr. Art Wood's beeswax tapers on Etsy. They don't burn well and go out all the time. I really like Pitch Pine Pottery's beeswax tapers but they are rather spendy. If you have recs I will take them.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Low:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A lot of financial struggles around the house this year, health issues, state of affairs in the world, in teaching. Trying to stay positive.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">High:</div>The rush of spring being here. Getting excited about plants and growing things again. The thrill of bugs, wildlife, chickens. Fresh eggs. Fresh flowers. Fresh breezes. Good books. Good smells. Good people. Soft sheets. Cold water. Comfy chairs to read in (found an old one for $35 at a thrift store and I love it). <p></p><p style="text-align: center;">How are things for you? Try anything new you love? What are you craving? What small things are you really loving?</p><p style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></p>TheRedolentMermaidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12025330454820306972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2810618299009561680.post-17128946013263955292022-03-30T07:00:00.142-04:002022-03-30T07:00:00.192-04:00Blood Moon Botanica: Perfume Oils<p style="text-align: center;"> Britton from <a href="https://bloodmoonbotanica.com/" target="_blank">Blood Moon Botanica</a> was originally the perfumer and part owner of Haus of Gloi many moons ago. Since they struck out on their own I have been following along and supporting them as they released and dabbled in many different things, from flower essences and tinctures to skin care and body care and more. They recently picked back up perfumery in a big way and I have been here for it.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhfubt6bFie2AfUf00uvlFgHEDQ8kbvtsfi8rfuwhJmYyocUw6Ewq5OEkrFXx4FKaiTBv14iCeij_dNsp_VoECtk1ocKsWSR-CmX1GTqYtS6X0ZQ8luW1XI3LsyjAp880f-laV3qEGYZDrRcGfiWTRcl1P48R4Er3qg9XpCcTISrqevU6icmrf3YlEA=s2842" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2842" data-original-width="1889" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhfubt6bFie2AfUf00uvlFgHEDQ8kbvtsfi8rfuwhJmYyocUw6Ewq5OEkrFXx4FKaiTBv14iCeij_dNsp_VoECtk1ocKsWSR-CmX1GTqYtS6X0ZQ8luW1XI3LsyjAp880f-laV3qEGYZDrRcGfiWTRcl1P48R4Er3qg9XpCcTISrqevU6icmrf3YlEA=w426-h640" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Huckleberry Mountain-</b><i> Notes: Conifer accord, sun-touched huckleberries, forest foliage, dusty roads, wildfire smoke, and dried grasses. Sample for $5.50 or 6ml for $20</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">From the bottle the huckleberries ensnare the nose first, tart and juicy like a blueberry with a seed-like crunch. On the skin those purple and blue hued berries sidle along with raw nicotine. This could be the grasses and dusty road, but it very much brings to mind smokeless tobacco and the papery and peppery insides of unsmoked cigarettes. The starkness of it softens and the berries settle into the woods.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhfnK_BttLHa7lbukqEkoiMtn04Wdk2MDZlqdfcB-FunMFme5uEWujlrGEOvZGuBf4w7_-Ap7ppu3jgwc6lreVpkICN4KnxwtWm6KP2640zxnSEm2g699CNmxrebrtWHoDgO-1TQ6r9hf-bMQACA1N0cOUsc8Mgd03ZXuASPSP0d32xWl0puLI4MSgi=s3008" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhfnK_BttLHa7lbukqEkoiMtn04Wdk2MDZlqdfcB-FunMFme5uEWujlrGEOvZGuBf4w7_-Ap7ppu3jgwc6lreVpkICN4KnxwtWm6KP2640zxnSEm2g699CNmxrebrtWHoDgO-1TQ6r9hf-bMQACA1N0cOUsc8Mgd03ZXuASPSP0d32xWl0puLI4MSgi=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Samhain Night-</b> <i>Notes: Graveyard dirt, rustling autumn leaves, a bundle of protective herbs along with vetiver and spikenard.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Loamy soil and damp, crumbling leaf litter fecund with humus dwells in the bottle. On the skin the soil and damp grassy vetiver mix to create a swampy atmosphere. The dank fog obscures the rickety shack on the edge of the mire where cypress knees rise up like horns of long buried fiends. Glimmers of green gas flicker like will-o-the-wisps over the rippling black waters. Earthy, herbal, decaying and ambient. The scent settles down into frangible dead leaves and broken twigs and pillowy herbs. Meditative and haunting. Hey there, you have dirt under your nails. Whatever have you been up to?</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhAnq7KHuyeYP9lRLB90LbqK1wZINbszCn53HHBIjKuKZ2sHJqw0ReuCF9NOmVVej1H2_ErTLoyYlQwbfauEE1uN5iT38mLC8hF4_h3uIcms7Fivgxp3bbWLQ5pwB_IAVtObWjdmZiHlrWYgzmrPNH6jqfoiVDPdJI7X9_BJkW3kOGcDMlo3j_qQQDq=s2981" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2981" data-original-width="1982" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhAnq7KHuyeYP9lRLB90LbqK1wZINbszCn53HHBIjKuKZ2sHJqw0ReuCF9NOmVVej1H2_ErTLoyYlQwbfauEE1uN5iT38mLC8hF4_h3uIcms7Fivgxp3bbWLQ5pwB_IAVtObWjdmZiHlrWYgzmrPNH6jqfoiVDPdJI7X9_BJkW3kOGcDMlo3j_qQQDq=w426-h640" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Harvest Moon- </b><i>Notes: Clean clear moon accord, golden pumpkin leaves, pumpkin pulp, dried yarrow, and a touch of honey.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Honeyed pumpkin flesh floats right out of the perfume bottle. On the skin it is limpid and golden, honeyed pumpkin fruit. There is a tang of bitterness from the yarrow and pumpkin leaves that creates wildness and lends a pungent air. The herbal aspects fade and and the honey lingers on, warm and dusky.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhWw1wCqoDkCZOQAHV8QuN9UJfLHvIiL520wlwFhKuD8CWxDnNStAY1x_G0IYHrp_DRfoEy1y_UwVxpFRQnkt5oR_vax3NX40hyVarIEq1_p7qPHbRIfhJDlzUQj03_qDNSCjpCevSLtP25SOX8fD5d_-UZwpIbhwrVu0qlkFG5lEoIR0H-W9JUskY3=s2976" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1978" data-original-width="2976" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhWw1wCqoDkCZOQAHV8QuN9UJfLHvIiL520wlwFhKuD8CWxDnNStAY1x_G0IYHrp_DRfoEy1y_UwVxpFRQnkt5oR_vax3NX40hyVarIEq1_p7qPHbRIfhJDlzUQj03_qDNSCjpCevSLtP25SOX8fD5d_-UZwpIbhwrVu0qlkFG5lEoIR0H-W9JUskY3=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Witch-</b> <i>Notes: Black musk, beeswax candles, dried vanilla bean husk, soot, and lunar night blooming jasmine incense.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">From the bottle unfolds a thin plume of blackened vanilla musk. Something is brewing up in there. On the skin a spell of musk, candle wax and joss sticks creates a veil of perfume. Milky vanilla curls around the perimeter and the whole thing smells of cloaks scented in potions and petitions from working magic. It is a spooky and wearable witchy scent that will be in heavy rotation.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiYrP0rwvVruSghpQkZjZEsgIpPjfRb6g9IvyPTG4YFDheEbH_2AbV4Tbkzh1g5wS-LV8y_E0hruPcFiqqj9IEJexjbpOrpGYUtfsazhoM0t6-1uOzpl1NAcas8tLu0W_mOMoqB2L0m7H8b_tJc3BklUv9Z7XyqVsX2DLxumm3RWJFfTK6uACcrQ8Mx=s2920" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1941" data-original-width="2920" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiYrP0rwvVruSghpQkZjZEsgIpPjfRb6g9IvyPTG4YFDheEbH_2AbV4Tbkzh1g5wS-LV8y_E0hruPcFiqqj9IEJexjbpOrpGYUtfsazhoM0t6-1uOzpl1NAcas8tLu0W_mOMoqB2L0m7H8b_tJc3BklUv9Z7XyqVsX2DLxumm3RWJFfTK6uACcrQ8Mx=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Canyon Lands-</b><i> Notes: Juniper needles and berries, poplar buds, sagebrush, and feral homestead lilacs, sandalwood, mitti attar, and pine oils finish it.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Right out of the sprayer it is breathtaking. Arid creosote breezes, dry crackling juniper and ozonic static electricity attract sandy dusty earth and pithy smells. The electricity dissipates and an almost uric note seeps in, reminding me of budding sweat and the sap of sage. It is certainly a spirit of place as the name suggests, abundant with desolate beauty.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I really enjoy these squatty yet petite bottle shapes with the tiny caps. They hold 6ml and have not leaked on me. Most of these scent wear close to the skin, creating a hovering aura of sillage. The longevity is on the shorter side on my skin, around 3-4 hours or so. I don't mind this at all as I like to apply different scents sometimes. Britton is gearing up for a spring perfume restock and will be including Moon Dew face serum (get it!!!!) and some body butters (get them!!!). I love their body butter formula, it is very silken and creamy rich. I plan on trying to pick up Frost Giants, Dreamy, and Ponderosa. I will also try and nab two deodorant/perfume oils in Vanilla Patchouli and Holy Forest. I enjoy using these for weekends or when I am not working and sometimes before bed. They keep my pits from being too pungent when I don't want to really wear a heavy hitter deodorant. The shop will open on the 16th. Follow them on IG for updates or sign up for their newsletter. They do a great job of mailing those newsletters out, which I appreciate. </div><br /><p></p>TheRedolentMermaidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12025330454820306972noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2810618299009561680.post-40281057807708192912022-03-28T07:00:00.000-04:002022-03-28T07:00:00.168-04:00Arcana Wildcraft: New Classics Jeunesse Doree and Lughnasadh<p style="text-align: center;"> <i>These perfumes were a gift from Julia.</i></p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEindJu6nnBzojZpM5mzekPYCR6WqVxF8Q5GG9A8phqccWLk_ab8JqZoBXu9s6cST1h3OFPiULcC88n6e41TEIZBzeux15KEGcCrsz1khbT9vHC_0YW_fiHwoZdjWkKz_S3zo-yFTu9Rcs4/s2048/20210722-DSC_0043.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1362" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEindJu6nnBzojZpM5mzekPYCR6WqVxF8Q5GG9A8phqccWLk_ab8JqZoBXu9s6cST1h3OFPiULcC88n6e41TEIZBzeux15KEGcCrsz1khbT9vHC_0YW_fiHwoZdjWkKz_S3zo-yFTu9Rcs4/w426-h640/20210722-DSC_0043.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://arcanawildcraft.com/" target="_blank">Arcana Wildcraft</a> added a few new scents to their permanent collection and I wanted to showcase them.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Jeunesse Doree- </b><i>Notes: The luxe, opulent beauty of nonpareil jasmine sambac absolute, golden Italian bergamot zest, plump vanilla pods, sugary Peru balsam, soft Clearwood, and a single drop of French cognac. $26</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Jeunesse doree means fashionable wealthy young people, or gilded youth. The original use for this term came from the French Revolution and the posh young anti-Jacobin thugs who terrorized Robespierre's cronies. At least that is what the Miriam-Webster definition tells me. When I sniffed it from the bottle I was getting Victorian era socialites, but turns out I was about a hundred years too late. This is a refined scent- the amber bottle houses plumose jasmine and gleaming bergamot cushioned on velvet. Graced on the skin that sugary balsam blends beautifully with the jasmine to create candy coated blossoms that straddle the line between creamy and indolic, especially once the bergamot and vanilla pool into the heart. The creamy jasmine reflects the creamy vanilla while woody and bright notes of bergamot and balsam lend elegance and age. This is a lovely scent that wears like a classic indeed.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvi50KtMBu4D_ofGutyz6mdRslO0XopY8-a9ot__v44eGImXSGvjQl_6l1Uh9v1xRyAY5VBeiVIcm8Q5YxWZHi_0vRwGtnni5HBwGQOAPvGKHySA6DL04SzDOh9GiPTK2Prbu_97B5PsY/s2048/20210722-DSC_0044.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1362" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvi50KtMBu4D_ofGutyz6mdRslO0XopY8-a9ot__v44eGImXSGvjQl_6l1Uh9v1xRyAY5VBeiVIcm8Q5YxWZHi_0vRwGtnni5HBwGQOAPvGKHySA6DL04SzDOh9GiPTK2Prbu_97B5PsY/w640-h426/20210722-DSC_0044.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><b>Lughnasadh-</b> <i>Notes: An ode to the ancient god Lugh, Celtic mermaids, and the element of water. The scent of fresh water, white coconut, moonlight reflected on the ocean, smooth amber, seaweed absolute, rain-drenched juniper tips, and a drop of ruby-red grapefruit. (Formerly known as Lammas) $26</i><p></p><div style="text-align: center;">Along with Kraken, Strawberries Crave Waterfalls, and Fresh Coconut layering note, this perfume will become a summer staple. Sunny grapefruit, tropical coconut and coastal landscapes murmur of faraway shores and sun dappled skin. Wet on warm skin the coconut echoes of the cracked brown rind, creamy white flesh and refreshing translucent milk sipped from nature's own bowl. The bounty that is chalice, drink and morsel all in one. As the thirst is quenched and the day lingers on the scent of sun warmed amber sands swirls in pools and eddies around the senses. The timid sweet coconut and amber are a merry meet. The freshness of the ocean and juniper just whisper as a gentle breeze pushing the amber and coconut into that sultry sway. This is a beautiful perfume that will be perfect for this Florida girl in the heat and humidity of summer.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I spent all weekend outside in yard and I swear the hours spun around the clock in double time. Lots of weeds pulled, dug up some plants that died in the freezes, and planted some daisies, salvia, nailwort, St. John's wort, jasmine, and blue butterfly. The chickens made me laugh. I let them out to scrounge around the yard and every time I got to digging and planting they would run up to me and investigate. Such curious gals. The phlox seeds I planted last fall are blooming. I need to make note to pick up more packets from the Florida native wildflower website. They always remind me of my great grandmother. I'll be sure to take some pictures. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">How was your weekend?</div>TheRedolentMermaidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12025330454820306972noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2810618299009561680.post-5034254366241143462022-03-23T07:00:00.001-04:002022-03-23T07:00:00.216-04:00MoonaLisa: Various 3ml Perfumes<p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjVrXDLGQ1I1Ux-ZE1lU2XLFzObeU2uNIvlgPu0-KQbWd5krmg_gkieJjrkyZ8yUlTWHhmZ0tYTLOTaHT8nCrzOnUWcIkJws8nA7HiNZRNwJNDGy5sCcFW4fIbdD-ip5yUFW6TxYp-nE3NVlZr8x6aCxPdXbz1FPcT61BSxk9UF23tcE8I0wNOVRfeL=s3008" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjVrXDLGQ1I1Ux-ZE1lU2XLFzObeU2uNIvlgPu0-KQbWd5krmg_gkieJjrkyZ8yUlTWHhmZ0tYTLOTaHT8nCrzOnUWcIkJws8nA7HiNZRNwJNDGy5sCcFW4fIbdD-ip5yUFW6TxYp-nE3NVlZr8x6aCxPdXbz1FPcT61BSxk9UF23tcE8I0wNOVRfeL=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">MoonaLisa is an indie perfume house that has been around for a while, her website states 1991. Moona has a background as a sculptor, chef, herbalist, and of course, in perfumery. She operates her house out of two websites, one for the perfume f<a href="https://mooscents.com/" target="_blank">ound here (MooScents)</a> and one for bath and body and home products <a href="https://www.moonalisa.com/" target="_blank">found here (MoonaLisa)</a>. Currently, all perfume oils are $15.95 and EDPs are $24.95. If a perfume oil has more expensive ingredients she will offer them in 3ml sizes, but if they are standard they will go in larger 5ml roll-ons. I will feature my roll-ons next. Today is all about the 3ml perfume oils I have from MoonaLisa. These were collected over the past couple of years, so fairly recent.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Fir & Spice- </b><i>Notes: All natural fir balsam, cedar wood, and silver fir. Accented with golden frankincense and myrrh, with just a touch of aromatic seasonal spices.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Dusty cedarwood and warm frankincense tears herald the coming of sacred woods and precious resins when sniffed from the bottle. Applied wet to the crook of an arm the cedar fizzes up with an aldehyde brightness. The sunlit cedar sparks settle down back to the earth and are grounded by dried evergreen needles and woody myrrh. At some points there is a gingery bubbling lightness to the edges, hard to tell if it emanates from the pale myrrh or terpenes from the wood pith. Regardless, this is a dancing wood nymph of a fragrance, agile and lithe, sunny and cheering.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjX7AKJ13ulOKndlZTNj5b4nf73SlPP7yCnaPYvEHLA8_O_fLHZeCCL8vKpr_5_20y7DwRYs7GoW0X-7A8T12h-vPKh2aMK7GUfnn3Nr3MLcST0wCUkrvBqycYFDnh0URqzfjEenNP6yNmRBExuH7V0gPt-QkEMnCrBOZoteKaC-g_FpXUbhdeG5lST=s2916" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1938" data-original-width="2916" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjX7AKJ13ulOKndlZTNj5b4nf73SlPP7yCnaPYvEHLA8_O_fLHZeCCL8vKpr_5_20y7DwRYs7GoW0X-7A8T12h-vPKh2aMK7GUfnn3Nr3MLcST0wCUkrvBqycYFDnh0URqzfjEenNP6yNmRBExuH7V0gPt-QkEMnCrBOZoteKaC-g_FpXUbhdeG5lST=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Yuletide Grove-</b> <i>Notes: An accidental blending of Starlight Woods and Yule Wood. Woody smoky soft amber and incense paired with evergreens, sandalwood, amber and spice.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A lovely sugared amber spruce this one is right out of the vial and wet on the skin. A near perfect Yule celebration: handcrafted hard candies, citrusy balsam garlands, the merest hint of cinnamon amber tipples. The sweetness makes me smile and imagine crystallized Christmas trees, twinkling with diamond sugar dust. I loved the idea of Yuletide Grove so much I did end up getting Starlight Woods as well. Now I simply need to pick up Yule Wood next to have all three iterations. Obviously you can see I am hooked and think they are well worth it.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgwvmU55_xHhY9RoTih-5jqE8BLPTEnJ8czPqMXkn_qw5LQg4uKmvmTf_7XrtbiZ-JU4E4h_FN2yLjk4BzdCjvXL683osGS1_XxjcfCpl3xd-k0XEySwXon9O6Aii0sicJFBtUbbGtGvdQhSgWv6V2vsvkMQH0KAtK8FkqnrYKNiYNEmlXj0cNlLBLJ=s2973" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1976" data-original-width="2973" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgwvmU55_xHhY9RoTih-5jqE8BLPTEnJ8czPqMXkn_qw5LQg4uKmvmTf_7XrtbiZ-JU4E4h_FN2yLjk4BzdCjvXL683osGS1_XxjcfCpl3xd-k0XEySwXon9O6Aii0sicJFBtUbbGtGvdQhSgWv6V2vsvkMQH0KAtK8FkqnrYKNiYNEmlXj0cNlLBLJ=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Snow Ice-</b> <i>Notes: Sweet crystallized vanilla sugar and cream.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I am always a sucker for vanilla centric scents. I find them comforting and easy to enjoy in most moods and seasons. Snow Ice fresh from the crystal bottle brims with thick chewy vanilla bliss. Swirled on the skin with the wand, a rich toothsome vanilla flows forth. It posses nuances of a sticky pale caramel, vanilla butter fudge, and a touch of sweetened condensed milk. It is ultra creamy and simply decadent. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj5CXWpmaeHS8KG01rxk8i5O6a28OCWDTDLgiggZ_tF0eIJRKQpgprR8eKMSEYfA8f6Qdl5KrQ-4Q8VfcjUKXThe5rDe0yoyugmD8jf78USd_rqv-itTdxsXLDOomxDJLVY8LJKauXs8yQJE0th_4Lmrf4uHSlaqj800_DjfXfMe5mrNvOQpAArUqva=s3008" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj5CXWpmaeHS8KG01rxk8i5O6a28OCWDTDLgiggZ_tF0eIJRKQpgprR8eKMSEYfA8f6Qdl5KrQ-4Q8VfcjUKXThe5rDe0yoyugmD8jf78USd_rqv-itTdxsXLDOomxDJLVY8LJKauXs8yQJE0th_4Lmrf4uHSlaqj800_DjfXfMe5mrNvOQpAArUqva=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Starlight Woods-</b> <i>Notes: Woody smoky soft amber with wafts of sacred incense.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Faintly the scent of delicate vanilla amber floats up in a haze. Brushed onto the skin, a candied version of this vanilla amber melts into a pool of warmth. It reminds me of an artisanal version of Amber Romance for a brief turn, but then the incense slowly trickles in and elevates the fragrance even further. On my skin this tends to hold close, with a quieter sillage, making for a more meditative experience. I will happily wear this one on days I need an extra dose of peace. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiaZ2tkkTTAYuQKDtnbfoV7uZRLhibrlH_e8aSmri4kxezI77KVftX0WUY7d8luNBml2w8iaN9HStHStNoAxCOyJSRxFeytGYJ0PZH1NQTgfmVpKODm9qlgl9nccIRjAdJ8_W1veek5W_FlnBEnn0_PJJdxjkTtSqv7DHnxBRnNCrADPANxQP486c4u=s2874" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1911" data-original-width="2874" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiaZ2tkkTTAYuQKDtnbfoV7uZRLhibrlH_e8aSmri4kxezI77KVftX0WUY7d8luNBml2w8iaN9HStHStNoAxCOyJSRxFeytGYJ0PZH1NQTgfmVpKODm9qlgl9nccIRjAdJ8_W1veek5W_FlnBEnn0_PJJdxjkTtSqv7DHnxBRnNCrADPANxQP486c4u=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>All Hallows' Eve-</b> <i>Notes: Autumn strolls through dry graveyards, with earthy grounding oak moss, patchouli, herbs, oud wood, sandalwood, mosses, smoked woods, and a touch of earthly reminders of home. </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This is a haunting creature. From the bottle smoky oakmoss and midnight oud slither out and up to the senses. Swiped onto the skin a deep, ember bright bonfire ignites in the dark. There is a wax oil scent called bonfire bliss and this brings to mind that profile: pillowy woodsmoke, softly acrid embers, earthen ash. If you enjoy flame, smolder and smoke, you will love All Hallow's Eve.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjUdfq9oPj8JPvfKTZefHndqiViAGEixfpz21xmg5VWACgP83z2PKr-6CXJW8SaZr3JgRZBHvuDwJX-gDsq6lc_bdEZ-O3f8ulYoV6DHN7-mxNDxw6EoA4qySo53eFG61HA4PhhJjRcSeTai7mtTchce8jhd7lGz2MTSlaZ-pEi9jErlyqtoo0pyK2x=s3008" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjUdfq9oPj8JPvfKTZefHndqiViAGEixfpz21xmg5VWACgP83z2PKr-6CXJW8SaZr3JgRZBHvuDwJX-gDsq6lc_bdEZ-O3f8ulYoV6DHN7-mxNDxw6EoA4qySo53eFG61HA4PhhJjRcSeTai7mtTchce8jhd7lGz2MTSlaZ-pEi9jErlyqtoo0pyK2x=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>The Witching Hour-</b> <i>Notes: Labdanum, benzoin, black agar, cedarwood, olibanum, and magic.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">From the bottle comes a gorgeous frankincense and oud wood, resinous and woody, sparkling and burnished. On the skin The Witching Hour darkens and broods and this is the perfect scent to illustrate that bewitching nocturnal time. The benzoin and agarwood are full bodied with inky musk and a blackened furriness that slinks about like the shadow of a cat under a moon. The richness of the agar carries a smoky and pithy undertone that reminds me of the Andy Taur Attar I love to wear. This posses that almost animalistic nature of that scent. So beware the padding paws of the lurking feline during The Witching Hour, she just might pounce and you will indeed be caught.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgz6CS9XaPIPYAhJqkXrMxEn1d_wBQeXCPzEyEQiX0Y7STcuOznVUMmyHclvbe5cEBlw5Toem6vMcqUJONx2Wm2Cp7j2aMR9PVnCLpgw4v5AX5076jSItAPA8M1REQP3n7fL4y06YOHKfoZDuufE3x1Ow6t4np1KiklVG7j9OljXbnsQjK1aX8PWOmA=s2692" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1790" data-original-width="2692" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgz6CS9XaPIPYAhJqkXrMxEn1d_wBQeXCPzEyEQiX0Y7STcuOznVUMmyHclvbe5cEBlw5Toem6vMcqUJONx2Wm2Cp7j2aMR9PVnCLpgw4v5AX5076jSItAPA8M1REQP3n7fL4y06YOHKfoZDuufE3x1Ow6t4np1KiklVG7j9OljXbnsQjK1aX8PWOmA=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>The Conjuring Room-</b> <i>Notes: The distinct aroma of layers upon layers of magical oils, wax built up from years of burning candles and dark magic.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I love how the resins and bits settle down at the bottom. Shaking it up does make it feel like I am preparing a potion to uncork. When it is unstoppered the most delicious honeyed vanilla and creamy beeswax bubbles up. The ritual continues as these creamy smooth scents are joined by furry lavender and tonka hues. A touch of smokiness from extinguished candles and sooty fingertips. This is a plush, sweet, creamy and smoky dream. Perfect for conjuring spells.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjLdED2TvRJbWQHGm6tUNudz2ei6RrkxOFrQ4lYEG2pviJaD8E4fwPvRPus9080kB1XNNEad25vs98gcjqYZRQNsVSOhF7geyffhIKbcTS7vOQ5k9jfk2pSFdGPAI6Yuj4Hv65sPN-nuPlaw6-2qwKG_6fgkx92F5YZCCaDyzPffBxkZBw6h2QEUQ2B=s2870" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1908" data-original-width="2870" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjLdED2TvRJbWQHGm6tUNudz2ei6RrkxOFrQ4lYEG2pviJaD8E4fwPvRPus9080kB1XNNEad25vs98gcjqYZRQNsVSOhF7geyffhIKbcTS7vOQ5k9jfk2pSFdGPAI6Yuj4Hv65sPN-nuPlaw6-2qwKG_6fgkx92F5YZCCaDyzPffBxkZBw6h2QEUQ2B=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Dusty Attic-</b> <i>Notes: An aged Moona amber blend, with oakmoss absolutes, subtle smoke elements, all swirling over fine aged patchouli.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">In the vial this dark elixir smells boozy and moody, vintage with elegant oakmoss. Anointed on the skin that boozy amber emerges as a darkling beauty. It reminds me of opening up vintage glass bottles of perfume in quiet tucked away thrift shops. The booziness ages away into an arid warm amber. The sweetness fades as oakmoss dusts the perfume with its sharp green papery aroma. At this stage it truly does smell exactly like the vintage fragrances perched on faded and forgotten dressers stored in attics. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEik8VMvdpgztoKpZjMjpgWf4GSM3cmasBKN6j_F1Y4qQ2VlBzFPKRX42ZVDyzRWtU_BwNktxxIySJdeVHks2TaYkP5xjYLuU9JwtuV-UmvzwG37WY7_GvlZQUaURvXA7E_NC5s29HTerN4aw0csNQLQRhNOd4mKOv4X0Ozm76F2izF-1UnADYl6_Zve=s2944" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1958" data-original-width="2944" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEik8VMvdpgztoKpZjMjpgWf4GSM3cmasBKN6j_F1Y4qQ2VlBzFPKRX42ZVDyzRWtU_BwNktxxIySJdeVHks2TaYkP5xjYLuU9JwtuV-UmvzwG37WY7_GvlZQUaURvXA7E_NC5s29HTerN4aw0csNQLQRhNOd4mKOv4X0Ozm76F2izF-1UnADYl6_Zve=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Winter Solstice- </b><i>Notes: A blend of different sacred resins such as frankincense and myrrh from around the world, nutmeg, and labdanum absolute.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This beauty was a fast favorite. I have since picked it up in the EDP format and will scout out another bottle later this year as the 3mls do go rather quickly with my heavy handedness. From the vial frankincense lifts up with clarity and sunny brightness. Moona's frankincense and ambers age incredibly well (I used to always get compliments on Salome's Secret for its resiny traits). Once on the skin that chewy woody frankincense is made more diaphanous by the austere myrrh. It is golden and rich, crystalline and shimmering, decadent and timeless. This is so beautifully blended that the individual notes don't appear in separation but merge into one beautiful ritual. The nutmeg lends a warm woodiness while the labdanum gifts a darkness. All swirl together to craft a resinous offering to the longest night of the year. If you love incense scents, do give this one a try. Winter Solstice does have to be applied liberally so have a sillage and longevity that lasts more than a few hours. It may be on the fleeting side but it is worth the experience.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhH83XBwSwWdJ2VGugW3S9L-HWCzU9SNxotYpGz70GDSwSPIW-aQ8ywitOdmQ5ihR4Pi_zP6kTMnCb35Wwva2D9Y6o3jiQvjigMx00VJWu-p7AidP321OhapzbtwH38WgNmCCB9IVPDVDBfi2deQdl6i0Iov-_-xooP9N7rc23jKS8y_WT4NGpn8YD_=s2863" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1894" data-original-width="2863" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhH83XBwSwWdJ2VGugW3S9L-HWCzU9SNxotYpGz70GDSwSPIW-aQ8ywitOdmQ5ihR4Pi_zP6kTMnCb35Wwva2D9Y6o3jiQvjigMx00VJWu-p7AidP321OhapzbtwH38WgNmCCB9IVPDVDBfi2deQdl6i0Iov-_-xooP9N7rc23jKS8y_WT4NGpn8YD_=w640-h424" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Strega-</b> <i>Notes: Legendary European witches smells of labdanum, Bulgarian rose, frankincense, vetiver, piper longum, and vanilla absolute from their good magic, and darker notes from their mischief like deep woods, damp mosses, and incense smoke.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I bought Strega just as much for her name as the notes listed. It was a good call. From the bottle a resiny sweetness lifts up. Don't let the rose shy you away. Despite the name, this is not a grandmotherly scent. Dabbed onto the wrists this perfume is truly pure magic. Moona has a way of crafting fragrant potions that wear like elixirs, defying the ability to deconstruct them into their ingredients, demanding to be taken at their whole. But I persist. The incense is softened by dark vanilla husks and dusted with white pepper. It fleshes out to feel like an inviting dusky vanilla woods threaded through with gossamer incense smoke. Your Strega has a cozy home with dark corners, a lone sweet rose in a vase on the rough hewn table, vanilla clinging to her worn apron from the ghosts of past treats, and a ready pillowy hug to sooth the frayed heart. Embrace her.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh-HUPzpKC7qhcp53HJxFyFUTQqiF-8V5S33dPWWSlucL-DAzVWDsSUB66sXjdY1E-9Vz8P_N7_vl0NnV0qmNLnennit8570cg9qPxGAer34H2aVRCCF75GzdR-vuLoHyUvTHIe9otPWc1GoZPiKArnUzlYpU4zxJ2c0gcUVqF2fmNTJRtSe7wufV1j=s2793" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1899" data-original-width="2793" height="436" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh-HUPzpKC7qhcp53HJxFyFUTQqiF-8V5S33dPWWSlucL-DAzVWDsSUB66sXjdY1E-9Vz8P_N7_vl0NnV0qmNLnennit8570cg9qPxGAer34H2aVRCCF75GzdR-vuLoHyUvTHIe9otPWc1GoZPiKArnUzlYpU4zxJ2c0gcUVqF2fmNTJRtSe7wufV1j=w640-h436" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Warm Hearth- </b><i>Notes: Sweet vanilla with cinnamon, nutmeg, and patchouli.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This one was an instant love. If you have a hankering for a sugared vanilla and gently spiced patchouli this is a true gem that satisfies those cravings. Wet on the skin the candied patchouli glows, it is a snug patchouli that doesn't lean medicinal or overtly earthy. Simply a sugar sprinkled patchouli leaf. The vanilla is a clear shard of rock candy that can crunch between teeth or stir clockwise three times into a comforting drink. The spices in this scent are extremely subtle and quiet, merely accentuating the mild woodiness of the patch and the warmth of the vanilla. This is a forever love and I will be picking up a back up. The longevity on this one is pretty stout, it lasts several hours, basically all day long.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Mabon-</b><i> Notes: Frankincense, sandalwood, cypress, juniper, pine, and pulverized oakmoss and concrete. A Scott Cunningham recipe with Moona's twist of added saffron and myrrh oils. A dusty fall stroll like scent.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A mesmerizing autumnal chypre-esque fragrance right out of the tiny crystal decanter. The oakmoss is tenderly aged and sings in harmony with the woods and resins. On the skin this is truly a magical ritual in the making. It is herbal and fresh like the snap of twigs with smudged green dregs in the bottom of a mortar. The saffron lingers with yellow pollen stains in the heart of the scent, a grassy yet brittle hay. It dries down into an airy frankincense and coniferous pine aroma. Lovely.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">As of last night the MooScents website was still open for spring perfume orders. I picked up some of course. I do find that sometimes the TAT can be a touch longer than stated, but the customer service, perfumes, and packaging are all well worth it. I heard MoonaLisa's chocolate scents were pretty stellar so I picked up two of those (and some others). Did you order? Do you have any favorites from MoonaLisa?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><br /><p></p>TheRedolentMermaidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12025330454820306972noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2810618299009561680.post-2753867400547408932022-03-21T07:00:00.001-04:002022-03-21T07:00:00.196-04:00Happy Spring<p style="text-align: center;"> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEisATW8pEVCDUjc1yLoGvqxW2jWzsm7HxNSXLBy9wE30M_hnvByh4F_8kA4T5AFHssj7bcolEigGC60cg35F9ziVaMPCeMFJ2yaIMiaxNQhzHChnQMf-WqRnzUCxGV0q0vLwPtBt9dn7VEzFlg7JyQql2TIsBFxPOCZ_ME8dbpqp_pCTTngBDY_8bI5=s2865" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1937" data-original-width="2865" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEisATW8pEVCDUjc1yLoGvqxW2jWzsm7HxNSXLBy9wE30M_hnvByh4F_8kA4T5AFHssj7bcolEigGC60cg35F9ziVaMPCeMFJ2yaIMiaxNQhzHChnQMf-WqRnzUCxGV0q0vLwPtBt9dn7VEzFlg7JyQql2TIsBFxPOCZ_ME8dbpqp_pCTTngBDY_8bI5=w640-h432" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Hey there. So things are starting to slowly reach a type of homeostasis over here. I don't want to say normal, because what does that even mean these days? And with the war, cost of living, and pandemic still raging I don't think things are all that great at the moment. But the health issues I have been struggling with as of late have been slowly getting better so that is a plus. My energy is creeping back and I am thankful for that.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgBj80I9zBZzsj2SKwHT6PzuU4pFJwvC-AB8cedufGuD9ykgqmDmRRazuxSRIpsMXM5uBvv3sIbffvNpRb-nrJLHuodkhY37OTf27F4BsOY55Vb_I-UNdYp0mBLHC0sl6_ZK6s3T8TIKTnScs9vNAiUOB8MC3vajTtU0yaOYBXHO0Y_QtmArvU025YG=s2740" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1745" data-original-width="2740" height="408" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgBj80I9zBZzsj2SKwHT6PzuU4pFJwvC-AB8cedufGuD9ykgqmDmRRazuxSRIpsMXM5uBvv3sIbffvNpRb-nrJLHuodkhY37OTf27F4BsOY55Vb_I-UNdYp0mBLHC0sl6_ZK6s3T8TIKTnScs9vNAiUOB8MC3vajTtU0yaOYBXHO0Y_QtmArvU025YG=w640-h408" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I have a magnet on my fridge one of my sisters gave me that says something like: if you have a library and a garden you have all you need. I am really leaning into that. I have enough books to get me through several years and a garden big enough to weed. I am loving the sweet alyssums lately, they smell so heavenly. Their dainty white fluffy clouds of flowers are strongly honey scented and make me smile.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg04Qi9YckHcogalQKOEVaqpec-zmEgTCFwKj9Z38t5eWAqws7YLeGS_Y_2PyhCv1_sRh2ykbSN0Unay0knS7iCSkg3n--KrFNa6_dApvBvoCDEx5iQF92L9AvPdDqBcj7s2tnwWExm0KxxHCY9kCPXz9i0yF1nnkOh6gbzMWq-py9a_sVk7ax7Y3Vz=s2847" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1893" data-original-width="2847" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg04Qi9YckHcogalQKOEVaqpec-zmEgTCFwKj9Z38t5eWAqws7YLeGS_Y_2PyhCv1_sRh2ykbSN0Unay0knS7iCSkg3n--KrFNa6_dApvBvoCDEx5iQF92L9AvPdDqBcj7s2tnwWExm0KxxHCY9kCPXz9i0yF1nnkOh6gbzMWq-py9a_sVk7ax7Y3Vz=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Did you know we have a fox that comes into our yard early in the morning hunting for squirrels?? I have only seen him once at night but Adam has been lucky enough to spot him and take pictures quite a few times. He likes to send them to me while I am at school working. It totally makes my day and makes me slightly envious of his work at home view.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhavlTDuqeofP0RAesnf5N7aZZLRZURHXkV9W-Arl3HnJfaJjwgx6Jm10x2d6G-xis53tB3ssKK78qC-3Q_H6Bo_aCJ1kwU2WV0AXmEZi-CftV8ffvUTuX1p6C8b5tgZC-IAOVxocLjNjmjYRT54880_gR9RCM0xfX3_4b5NMSUe1nsbL8Yqj8zF4jA=s3008" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhavlTDuqeofP0RAesnf5N7aZZLRZURHXkV9W-Arl3HnJfaJjwgx6Jm10x2d6G-xis53tB3ssKK78qC-3Q_H6Bo_aCJ1kwU2WV0AXmEZi-CftV8ffvUTuX1p6C8b5tgZC-IAOVxocLjNjmjYRT54880_gR9RCM0xfX3_4b5NMSUe1nsbL8Yqj8zF4jA=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I think the thing about gardening is that it gives you hope. I am sure I read somewhere that planting a seed is a sign that you have faith in what the days will bring. I may not be harvesting a bounty of foods but I will gratefully take the handful of carrots and rutabagas that I pull up. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Work is a rollercoaster but I am going to stick it out another year where I am at (if they'll let me). I am hoping I can make a good choice with my head and heart about all that when the time comes. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I have been off Facebook for a while now and it has helped in some areas but certainly not in saving money. I figured being out of many of the wax and perfume groups would tame the spending but heck, I find all kinds of things to buy anyway. Needing to make a budget and stick to it. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiOv7nDmYvHV2ReN1CJFQL9mNxkSaWPCW0O9frHnin021bXQqJW7XiVRkVxEPGa21tcOaberg-Vr2FI_hdj1jUk6ktTjUvZedc7C0mPfmhKcMJl08OoBwLMkapfOOF8g5WDmIssGp1gS4U42RzPVtDuM1s1_OlDCFKQzOTMb2Uu4nYQ0FGLQm-1Bm1q=s3008" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiOv7nDmYvHV2ReN1CJFQL9mNxkSaWPCW0O9frHnin021bXQqJW7XiVRkVxEPGa21tcOaberg-Vr2FI_hdj1jUk6ktTjUvZedc7C0mPfmhKcMJl08OoBwLMkapfOOF8g5WDmIssGp1gS4U42RzPVtDuM1s1_OlDCFKQzOTMb2Uu4nYQ0FGLQm-1Bm1q=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">But for now I am just going to try and focus on the little things that can bring small moments of joy. And taking photos and smelling the perfumes I have are a part of that for this time being. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Did I tell you that my oldest now has a learner's permit to drive? She loves high school so far. Learning a ton and making a couple friends. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My youngest is making straight A's for the first time and really seeing that she is able to get the hang of math and reading despite struggling with it for so very long. I am so happy for her. She has also picked up drawing and sketching. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My cat is getting old. She has a lot of the signs: grouchy, meows all the time, bitey, sleeps ALL day in the same spot, coat looking scruffy. I am thinking her time might be winding down. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The chickens are doing great! They gives us 3-4 eggs each day, once even five! Not bad for only three hens. We had to give one away because she was a bully. So Reki, Baka, and Frederick are our forever girls. Well, as long as they live girls. They are so sweet. They love pecking around the yard and being held. Scarlette even swings with them in her lap. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Well hoping your spring is going well as can be. What do you do to boost up your serotonin? </div><br /><p></p>TheRedolentMermaidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12025330454820306972noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2810618299009561680.post-54883452965017315432022-03-20T07:00:00.011-04:002022-03-20T07:00:00.179-04:00Arcana Wildcraft: Meditations on Love<p style="text-align: center;"> <i>These perfumes were sent as a gift.</i></p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjfAN47XvUsgCS2R8OMH0Yk-VW89c5-ZRo0SBeV5UhoAQi_JXQJEQOa6JdhDVWX5JPIJTWPuGWIuwLViAZWsAmwNAywMp1K78XB-DejnTLdUz44YBiJbi_cPpLOqAcgkIDXVU5BytxNeXIqCFKtCpL6DXr6_g3p0REYvaNgHAd8gdMacMVvZugWw1-7=s2947" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1864" data-original-width="2947" height="404" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjfAN47XvUsgCS2R8OMH0Yk-VW89c5-ZRo0SBeV5UhoAQi_JXQJEQOa6JdhDVWX5JPIJTWPuGWIuwLViAZWsAmwNAywMp1K78XB-DejnTLdUz44YBiJbi_cPpLOqAcgkIDXVU5BytxNeXIqCFKtCpL6DXr6_g3p0REYvaNgHAd8gdMacMVvZugWw1-7=w640-h404" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Hey there. It's me. How have you been? I have been ok. Still into my smell goods, reading, working, gardening. Trying to find those tiny bits of joy where I can.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Speaking of tiny bits of joy, I do have some perfumes to show you. These are from Julia's Valentine's release at <a href="https://arcanawildcraft.com/collections/vday2022">Arcana Wildcraft</a>, titled Meditations on Love. A sample is $6 and a full 5ml bottle is $26 and free shipping on orders over $50. If you join Julia's Facebook group you can sometimes catch the deals like gifts with purchase and discount codes. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhH6mbvSx1Py63SGdjAeFDuP30JoDT9--plwyqY3ior1ywFHT359V_njPp4YGD89CedcJfXik4nqRptd_NUi-OrIr880NaJ6MfjyZowikwepmwxZ6T05BY1nH93pG_i7maLvqOEGO2hOjzBTW4gOC9mGkiZ7xnlAbf87qbKIlR4nD1N9mYBEuJnfrsJ=s2939" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1934" data-original-width="2939" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhH6mbvSx1Py63SGdjAeFDuP30JoDT9--plwyqY3ior1ywFHT359V_njPp4YGD89CedcJfXik4nqRptd_NUi-OrIr880NaJ6MfjyZowikwepmwxZ6T05BY1nH93pG_i7maLvqOEGO2hOjzBTW4gOC9mGkiZ7xnlAbf87qbKIlR4nD1N9mYBEuJnfrsJ=w640-h422" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Seduce-</b> <i>Notes: Cafe au lait, delicate neroli, dark crimson musk, oven-toasted brioche, Mexican vanilla, crystalline chunks of rich amber, vintage patchouli, and smooth sandalwood.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">In the vial there is a push and pull factor between the coffee and neroli. It almost comes across like a perky variety of dragon's blood but I think that is the red musk's influence. Applied on the wrists, the patchouli opens up (Julia always has the most incredible patch) and pairs with the warm musk to act as the smoldering setting within which the seduction takes place. It eventually drifts quietly to the background to linger as velvety shadows amid the candlelight of the neroli. The more gourmand aspects of this perfume are blended so beautifully. One moment a tendril of steamy coffee and cream will entice, then the next a wedge of crusty nourishing bread will hover at the periphery of my senses. All the while the vanilla, amber, patch and sandalwood mingle and meld into a beguiling perfume. Seduce is a highly nuanced red musk unlike any that I have sniffed before. The deep drydown becomes more soft and snug as it settles into a tender vanillic sandalwood cream. It is a pleasure to wear and expertly blended.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhYag6Oa1c7MZlOER9H9U_Ij9hR62M4o-b62JROa9KUEerF9XunpX0hn_z_zBO9E8xfBk_iiQDzZsn_IPxqYoMDZKA31wKeKE7gdMGI1KPLvYqoat46Ep6nbwaWbmiu-u9lA4-sLtjKr64lvr638AIOqFfTKyIZSTcN0Hs_DiWImIgE7lzVzU7ATgGO=s3008" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhYag6Oa1c7MZlOER9H9U_Ij9hR62M4o-b62JROa9KUEerF9XunpX0hn_z_zBO9E8xfBk_iiQDzZsn_IPxqYoMDZKA31wKeKE7gdMGI1KPLvYqoat46Ep6nbwaWbmiu-u9lA4-sLtjKr64lvr638AIOqFfTKyIZSTcN0Hs_DiWImIgE7lzVzU7ATgGO=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Touch- </b><i>Notes: Golden honey on warm skin, soft brown leather, a baby lambswool sweater, floating layers of sheer silk, grey musk, and lightly smoked sap-frosted woods.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">From the vial comes violet hued impressions, the delicate orris smudged bruises under sleepy bedroom eyes, the tender blue veins that dwell in the crooks of arms, the dreamlike quality of light just after the sun sets and just before it rises. Brushed onto the skin the luminous leathery iris and orris root tones glow with pale lilac and azure auras. It is a sleepy and soft beauty along a similar feel as Celestite to my nose. A difference is the leather and the honey. I love how the honey grounds this scent and keeps it from floating into the ether, much like a touch can be grounding and comforting. The heart begins to drift into the textile territory with the clean skin scent of wool and watery layers of silk. The heart slowly warms up by the dripping of honey and this carries down to the base. It is quite the suggestive scent in the drydown, as if fingers trail along the skin leaving a honeyed ghost of pheromones it their wake. Touch is a beautiful scent. Shadowy blue florals and leather to the warm sweater borrowed from a lover to a honeyed skin musk.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhXms4IfRg5s3_UjEz8v2C_64rDFHvYrPb01cBTq8HS-eTpV6_7OjkiADKIbfpO2wiGwQlCLjmTSnpbBTJMwMTIV53U3QLocSFzeOU-ihphZYGlbifJIeI9PDr5eNqXaiazOhIxEO8BSpd2CWYOL83H_pq2S5bILLktqsQm_vpMtKOlH3V26FM28b5y=s3008" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhXms4IfRg5s3_UjEz8v2C_64rDFHvYrPb01cBTq8HS-eTpV6_7OjkiADKIbfpO2wiGwQlCLjmTSnpbBTJMwMTIV53U3QLocSFzeOU-ihphZYGlbifJIeI9PDr5eNqXaiazOhIxEO8BSpd2CWYOL83H_pq2S5bILLktqsQm_vpMtKOlH3V26FM28b5y=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Trust</b>- <i>Notes: Lavender scented kulfi, ruffled red carnations, precious French cognac, ribbons of melted caramel, white amber, fluffy vanilla, clove bud, and brown sugar.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I have never tasted nor smelled kulfi before. I see it is a traditional Indian frozen dessert and when I sniff in the bottle I certainly pick up a creamy cool treat infused with amber cognac. I love how boozy and creamy this is in the bottle, with just a whiff of resinous warm amber. Wet on the skin the greenhouse scent of carnations wafts up, like a stem or two sentimentally presented by a lover. The carnations and cognac are quite the heady pairing, and they merge together seamlessly. The heart fills as the cream begins to rise, quietly pushing the courtship flowers to the background. Slowly a richness darkens the cream and kulfi, this must be the brown sugar and caramel with a breath of clove. It dries down to remain this creamy sugared dark treat. Enchanting. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhjnLYau-H4SLvnmZNJgeTXyL_DUQQsr_KXQUd9Go_uFrr0VJ7arR-Nab48GmxhPcHHxq14Oqy2GJQIZ_Kgd7IgaBQvbEh_6J7vg1Ca4XZqsFZ4G9jbMqA4LnjRVNp0I5VcZS91AzltJEN1dtFUkMDa5PRpJbzg4obdiEjhLUsFFiN_HQlQROGozKX0=s2852" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1874" data-original-width="2852" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhjnLYau-H4SLvnmZNJgeTXyL_DUQQsr_KXQUd9Go_uFrr0VJ7arR-Nab48GmxhPcHHxq14Oqy2GJQIZ_Kgd7IgaBQvbEh_6J7vg1Ca4XZqsFZ4G9jbMqA4LnjRVNp0I5VcZS91AzltJEN1dtFUkMDa5PRpJbzg4obdiEjhLUsFFiN_HQlQROGozKX0=w640-h420" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Blush-</b> <i>Notes: A trail of wild-harvested mosses in an enchanted forest leads to profusion of tuberose petals, fresh apricots, soft earth, and blushing peaches drizzled with a touch of wildflower honey.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The notes on this one had me wiggling my eyebrows for sure. I adore Julia's narcotic white florals (the jasmine and strawberries in Merrywidow!) so I was excited to see her pair tuberose with the peach and apricots. In the vial those three have quite the menage a trois in a clearing somewhere out in nature. I hope the insects were kind to them. Drenched on the skin juicy apricots and peaches start jammy and sweet but then mellow into the furred skins of the fruits rather than the flesh, while the dainty white tuberose petals offer up their honeyed opulent perfume. The tuberose here is not indolic or gasoline nuanced but leans more towards the creamy and honey rich scent of pure orange blossoms and bulb flowers and gardenia all swirled into the majesty that is tuberose herself. Bits of moss and earth act as a vignette framing the fruits and tuberose flowers. As it begins to dry the ripe peaches and apricots fade and the tuberose blooms fully forward, humid and lush but softened ever so slightly by the muted moss and earthen hues smudged around it, earthen and not sweet. In the drydown the petals become withered and crackling, light and dusty, falling to the earth.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhUulzC15Xof4mIIPJzWyZOAMmAa5iA3thoT-WQQxTuVOe_6fy-5RIxPGzRA0OYfwoKkwFYdOvRUUlcUa41qoX6_u2TmTSJRU5EgY-2EK8RScjiogV0qnBQeC3gP5TcdxXAWEqSMV9W_r3gUAN7m6PvlKFsv6_izAiBCmSy_ynVogpQL-Cl2FSvbOkW=s2766" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1740" data-original-width="2766" height="402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhUulzC15Xof4mIIPJzWyZOAMmAa5iA3thoT-WQQxTuVOe_6fy-5RIxPGzRA0OYfwoKkwFYdOvRUUlcUa41qoX6_u2TmTSJRU5EgY-2EK8RScjiogV0qnBQeC3gP5TcdxXAWEqSMV9W_r3gUAN7m6PvlKFsv6_izAiBCmSy_ynVogpQL-Cl2FSvbOkW=w640-h402" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Wide-eyed-</b> <i>Notes: The sweet amazement of the dawning of love. A green meadow wreathed in mist, the beating of butterfly wings, Jasmine sambac, young, ripe strawberries, and a bit of sugar-gilded vetiver.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Well howdy-do. After thinking of Merrywidow's lush jasmine and boozy strawberry, look who struts her stuff right into my hands? Another lush jasmine and strawberry! This makes me ridiculously excited. In the bottle the strawberries are tiny toothachingly sweet glistening red beads pillowed by fuzzy green leaves with dainty white flowers arching out, bobbing on their long thin stems. Gracing the skin those beautiful berries are ever present and larger than life, however, just as ephemeral as they would be in nature they quickly ripen and move to the edges of the scent to allow the jasmine to pull through in the heart. This jasmine is a gorgeous white star shining with moon dappled fragrance. It is lush and delicate, less powerful and bulb-like than the tuberose, more gossamer and sweet. A princess rather than a queen. I think that the tiny wild strawberries hanging around the edges all the while bolster this image. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgWLrH778OmiDCBUYqakyzIR0s_2QnfMZuleaVwknWbUNbO5xrC0Ia1x1Abkh-EG6ENJ7aYcTsK-rfIa3Omow7OUPUsUwmZ7TyuYSE-EeOrjDIHsG8WFFBPRy26rRvlFdW1slFgqzcD4a6SxeklVrtLzuvLqsctnVW6PM5IvdtTKzmWomIx5G0q_0K3=s3008" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgWLrH778OmiDCBUYqakyzIR0s_2QnfMZuleaVwknWbUNbO5xrC0Ia1x1Abkh-EG6ENJ7aYcTsK-rfIa3Omow7OUPUsUwmZ7TyuYSE-EeOrjDIHsG8WFFBPRy26rRvlFdW1slFgqzcD4a6SxeklVrtLzuvLqsctnVW6PM5IvdtTKzmWomIx5G0q_0K3=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Muse-</b> <i>Notes: Delicate, crisp lemon cookies, tart yuzu, velvet blankets, wild-harvested fir tips, warm stones in an ancient forest, sweet coconut water, and wild juniper. </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Muse is a wild beauty. From the bottle I sniff out the bright and zesty yuzu citrus tones and it is accompanied by the serenity of coniferous woods. I know I will love it. Drizzled onto the skin a clean and warm musk unfolds that houses the lemony bright yuzu. It really does smell of sun dried linens that have netted the blossoms drifting along a breeze. As the winds shift the yuzu becomes more pronounced and the gentle green milkiness of coconut water trickles in. The effect isn't tropical but serene and calming. As if wandering a rocky forested coastline in the Mediterranean with gentle cleansing winds and wild citrus fruits growing crookedly towards the sea. Certainly a place to muse. This beauty dries down to a soft pale coconut woods that induces frequent sniffing.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">All of these Meditations on Love are simply lovely. I am enthralled with the floral and fruit combinations that ring true and wear beautifully. I actually went to a wedding with my right arm slathered in Blush and my left graced in Wide-eyed and savored every moment. Sorry if I am a bit rusty on the writing and interpretations. These things are like muscles and mine are sorely atrophied. I am aiming to pick up two new to me scents from Julia at Arcana soon (Her Flame and Her Sorceress) and then I also plan on beginning the review process of a ton of Moonalisa scents I have ordered over the years but never got around to. I have found that I missed writing about scent. So here I am. Once more. Pouring over the goodies. Hope you have been doing well! What are you wearing?</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><i><br /></i><p></p>TheRedolentMermaidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12025330454820306972noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2810618299009561680.post-4455390884713800652021-12-31T09:42:00.004-05:002021-12-31T09:42:58.076-05:00Best of 2021<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgu5MYgZI29zJ8LSb0YvTY-x8JRSKt4PE27466udUPZSb3Nc8Pcnf3h0GeuhEndaZ-sZGBNy5noTfo1Gq21bKbdWXi1QGhNjhwDAIbWfJmXlO6rrgRDh7gbE3esv0wAU_S1dHqb1uZ9HgaWiE4C-HZhZC5k5C5H5xq8lsk9UktnGuQZRJN9jiNd2RTj=s3008" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgu5MYgZI29zJ8LSb0YvTY-x8JRSKt4PE27466udUPZSb3Nc8Pcnf3h0GeuhEndaZ-sZGBNy5noTfo1Gq21bKbdWXi1QGhNjhwDAIbWfJmXlO6rrgRDh7gbE3esv0wAU_S1dHqb1uZ9HgaWiE4C-HZhZC5k5C5H5xq8lsk9UktnGuQZRJN9jiNd2RTj=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Though things still very much feel topsy-turvy, I do want to take the time to reflect on some positives from this past year. For me personally some good things that came out of 2021:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">-Saw my baby niece enter the world.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">- Got to see my sister get married.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">-Visited Baton Rouge and discovered an awesome used bookstore there (Cottonwood Books, if you ever go).</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">-Witnessed our baby chicks grow and become layers.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">-Cuckoo clock and wooden swing.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">-Girls transitioned into high school and middle school pretty smoothly.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">-Adam received some work accolades.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">-I finally finished getting the living room set to order with some used furniture and a rug.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">-Fox and bunny sightings in the yard.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">-Finished a quilt.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh0ISHr0FznFarus2ADQn7UGYrDLcYJTxD2PwGD6fKuV3mkLoRAFqi_vUxavP1jdrRR5hH6WxEFCApE506ymoV2a25laIQj__BezUqlIq2bDDBGcWl_Y2-9gCDb5tpq6H9jT0gMKPfEtZk4oZaj3pNaxAVrgZvPT1pUV9hbKYEle20gYRiOsu8ZmlaW=s3008" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh0ISHr0FznFarus2ADQn7UGYrDLcYJTxD2PwGD6fKuV3mkLoRAFqi_vUxavP1jdrRR5hH6WxEFCApE506ymoV2a25laIQj__BezUqlIq2bDDBGcWl_Y2-9gCDb5tpq6H9jT0gMKPfEtZk4oZaj3pNaxAVrgZvPT1pUV9hbKYEle20gYRiOsu8ZmlaW=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Oldies But Goodies:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I still retain many old favorites and frequent their shops. Makers I purchased from this year that I will always adore:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">- Future Primitive Soap company- several conditioning hair rinses, shampoo bars, bar soaps, and even one tub of luxury body cream</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">- Candles From the Keeping Room- I placed an order every time I could catch one. And now that I hear Carol is retiring soon I will continue to stock up.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">- The Bathing Garden- several tubs of sugar scrub and the occasional wax tart.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">-Blood Moon Botanica- I still love Britton's Moon Dew face serum and tinctures, but she has also been revisiting her perfumer's past by releasing larger collections rather than one-offs. I have loved them tremendously. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">-Moonalisa- I forgot how much I enjoy Moona's perfumes, soaps and candles. I picked up her EDP for the first time and loved that too. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgi_8qSBEOXaSMO-cBLuRQUGnzxowxnS4QF6QymZXquUtkRAL3Ye-TW3YZh5LF8Et0JCV4dF8Szhn5YkV_Fz0NV8HmT89Gd_Ix6ywrM6SJh0_UcjZh2VV-ELB8Ex7CCQZCMJR5_uZ4RV23IcB-NiZt5oYLRRQm_QmpwKyoCDh-x9DpbU14awyMq2zNN=s3008" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgi_8qSBEOXaSMO-cBLuRQUGnzxowxnS4QF6QymZXquUtkRAL3Ye-TW3YZh5LF8Et0JCV4dF8Szhn5YkV_Fz0NV8HmT89Gd_Ix6ywrM6SJh0_UcjZh2VV-ELB8Ex7CCQZCMJR5_uZ4RV23IcB-NiZt5oYLRRQm_QmpwKyoCDh-x9DpbU14awyMq2zNN=w400-h266" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">New Favorite:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">- Acorn Moon Mercantile- I love the seasonal bundles, bells, skin care, tinctures and witchy offerings. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhu3j6o-VIwHr5H97pZusyWliun_T0WqVAcgd8rMxHIXn_iv11N8swEau0zSJgBKJqKZh3ot2ThwMSpU6HHlylFUeGubxpWJJ2TL147Zyobt07aX4-l3irWHaxSgY2Hzn3k1ybD-1E-qUwcqqK918Rx3pJbKNjjOvcVsNXLQ4dc7CvaIXe8uQ6kiES1=s3008" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhu3j6o-VIwHr5H97pZusyWliun_T0WqVAcgd8rMxHIXn_iv11N8swEau0zSJgBKJqKZh3ot2ThwMSpU6HHlylFUeGubxpWJJ2TL147Zyobt07aX4-l3irWHaxSgY2Hzn3k1ybD-1E-qUwcqqK918Rx3pJbKNjjOvcVsNXLQ4dc7CvaIXe8uQ6kiES1=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mugs:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I have added some new potters to my mug collection.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">- Dees Ceramics</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">-T. Young Ceramics</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">-Mushroom Root</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">-My Paper Crane</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">-Mud Grove Pottery</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">-Kat Cave Studios</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">-Gina Grenier </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">-Black Banjo Arts</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">-Oil and Birch (custom pre-order that is almost done)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">-Lily Lund Ceramics</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It has been a slower and more quiet year for wax and such. I honestly don't know what I am going to do when Carol does retire. I guess ration out my stash and convert to candles and incense only once it is used up.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Did you have any favorites this year? Any new makers you want to recommend or scents you are loving? Collect anything fun and exciting this year? Lots of pinecones for me.</div><p></p>TheRedolentMermaidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12025330454820306972noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2810618299009561680.post-8875885956624329982021-12-30T07:00:00.001-05:002021-12-30T07:00:00.222-05:002021 Reading Challenge Wrap-Up<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhLXnbRvpFztwgBd1FWQon7Yaz6X3XGa2sHZxNCZZ2_fkqNARsNqnmK47Hl14JeGpNH3ilaX5Xu0nClx4tgo3lY_Jfqra08kJywGrALDYM449AH3zbM3A4xKfzdXgO-d6m8TAgzFwxSlp3jz7N8Q0M29rexsyKL1Ow6SBJNw4Fu4n0Krx_u7lINYDLW=s2907" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1945" data-original-width="2907" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhLXnbRvpFztwgBd1FWQon7Yaz6X3XGa2sHZxNCZZ2_fkqNARsNqnmK47Hl14JeGpNH3ilaX5Xu0nClx4tgo3lY_Jfqra08kJywGrALDYM449AH3zbM3A4xKfzdXgO-d6m8TAgzFwxSlp3jz7N8Q0M29rexsyKL1Ow6SBJNw4Fu4n0Krx_u7lINYDLW=w640-h428" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p style="text-align: center;">How are you guys doing? I hope the tail end of 2021 is treating you well. I am wrapping up my reading for the year and wanted to post my final choices for the Bookish Jay and Reading Mermaid Challenge. I had a great year for reading. Of course there were some duds, but there were some books that took my breath away. I rate my reads pretty simply <span style="color: red;">* = you can skip it, ** = might be worth the time, *** = please read it</span>. To save some time if you aren't interested in reading my thoughts on each book, my absolute favorites this year were: <i>October Country, Dandelion Wine, Local Girls, Virgin Suicides, Dune, The Adventures of Tom Bombadil, Starve Acre, and Trevor Noah. </i>Once I finish Strange & Norrell it will probably be there too. </p><p style="text-align: center;"> <span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;">1. </span><span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;">It’s the end of the world as we know it…—an apocalyptic tome, dystopian nightmare, or something set in/about the year 2020.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><u>The Lord of Opium</u> by Nancy Farmer is the second in the <i>House of Scorpion</i> series. I read the first book several years ago when I was a middle school teacher. It was one of the books in our library. This second book picks up in a post-apocalyptic North America where there are no longer traditional countries but instead the border between Mexico and the US is broken up into drug countries. Cloning is a typical endeavor to increase life span (harvesting and replacing broken down organs) and the environment is shot to hell (of course). I enjoyed being back in this world where one boy is trying to make a positive difference. It can be trite and cheesy and childish at times but it is a kid's book. Strangely enough. <span style="color: red;">**</span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;">2. </span><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;">Choose a book from an independent book store.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><u>Virgin Suicides</u> by Jeffrey Eugenides was picked up at an independent used bookstore here in Orlando. I read it lightening fast. It was a gripping, through distressing tale of a clutch of sisters desperately trying to grow up in 70's middle- America suburbia, though ultimately failing. I went on to watch the film. <span style="color: red;">***</span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">3. Reclaim her name— choose from a multitude of titles which feature generic pronouns; “girl”, “woman”, “wife”, “lady”, or “she” in the title, and discover the true story of the character. Or, select from the </span><a href="https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/uk/lifestyle/editors-choice-book-reviews/a33582668/reclaim-her-name-free-book-downloads/" style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; text-decoration-line: none; white-space: pre;" target="_blank"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">sponsored list</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> by the Women’s Prize for Fiction of 25 authors who used male pseudonyms to publish.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><u>The Local Girls</u> by Alice Hoffman is a collection of short stories that revolve around a young woman as she grows. Various view points from family and friends are portrayed, and how their lives entwine with hers. I adore Hoffman's work and this is a wonderful collection. <span style="color: red;">***</span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #134f5c;">4. Shelf control—pick up a dusty, neglected book that’s already sitting unread on your shelf.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span><u>The Grave Keepers</u> by Elizabeth Byrne was a strange tale of how in an alternate time people spend a great deal of time in their future grave, contemplating and reflecting, tending to their long-term home for when they die. This young adult book follows a family of "grave keepers" who live in a cemetery and help others with their plots and graves. They live on the fringes of society and the two daughters struggle to find belonging. <span style="color: red;">**</span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span><span style="color: red;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjWibPKG1YFpfuo3kmXyZessJi8cOuButOta1j_x7eQ6hQn9bXsncReo0JpNjw-q1V2HmAkIPP-I60CNRck3xHDRELa0kGCgIQCNyogTPC8GZVleCiSGihHtM5fIeAycxdq246YL2Neg3hlLnOxa39wFFKNGY1q5A-NaRuu1XgMitMcm3gK4AtmCT4s=s2114" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2114" data-original-width="2114" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjWibPKG1YFpfuo3kmXyZessJi8cOuButOta1j_x7eQ6hQn9bXsncReo0JpNjw-q1V2HmAkIPP-I60CNRck3xHDRELa0kGCgIQCNyogTPC8GZVleCiSGihHtM5fIeAycxdq246YL2Neg3hlLnOxa39wFFKNGY1q5A-NaRuu1XgMitMcm3gK4AtmCT4s=w640-h640" width="640" /></a></div><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #134f5c;">5. Big Book Energy😉—level up with an 750+ page.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span><u>Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell</u> by Susanna Clarke definitely fits the big book energy goal at 846 pages. I began this book in July but put it down after about 100 or so pages. I realized it was a LONG haul feat. I wanted to save it for my last book of the year. So here I am at the end of December and I am now 300 pages in and enjoying it very much. I think this one will bridge over into 2022, but that is quite alright. I am loving the story. It reads like a gothic Victorian fantasy. Tactile characters, vivid settings, lyrical yet humorous writing, and plenty of footnotes for diving deep into the cannon. I look forward to getting back to it. I can tell it is a full three stars already. <span style="color: red;">***</span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span><span style="color: red;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhdZlbTaKGsgRBTGDpf2WoM5UvmPx4IpufJJIBuig-xZjY5desk9ogvEAnN52IkfT0cS7xTfhP7ivI5JqmAGastIYJ220r9Nn4tCtvPFBjI6oqddE0sMpy9_Y4a4OAJmhH-yXrbOuzfDSImYGjMmCGNDOOaHwZa_gisvwqUnWl0xHj7xSDZAW4hSMPG=s3008" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3008" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhdZlbTaKGsgRBTGDpf2WoM5UvmPx4IpufJJIBuig-xZjY5desk9ogvEAnN52IkfT0cS7xTfhP7ivI5JqmAGastIYJ220r9Nn4tCtvPFBjI6oqddE0sMpy9_Y4a4OAJmhH-yXrbOuzfDSImYGjMmCGNDOOaHwZa_gisvwqUnWl0xHj7xSDZAW4hSMPG=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="color: red;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #134f5c;">6. Bright lights, big city—get lost in a Metropolis, real or fictional.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span><u>Winterfolk</u> by Janel Kolby is a young adult story about a homeless teen girl and how she navigates her coming of age in Seattle with an absentee father and an over protective male friend. It made for a quick, heartfelt read. <span style="color: red;">**</span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #134f5c;">7. Small town vibes— find yourself in a cozy village setting, where everybody knows your name.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span><u>The Rattled Bones</u> by S.M. Parker had better cover art than content for my money. A tale of a young lady who is battling grief over her father's death and whether to keep up his fishing territory in small-town Maine or go to college. She is haunted by local spirits who demand to have their injustices brought to light. It is a promising story-line but not well executed. The characters are flat and the story drags. <span style="color: red;">*</span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span><span style="color: red;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgsC10BXyaHJIrPcSn4wuvl2EYiuKe7z05974bhTsjcPxJwuUi6DiA25_ZJdtNB7-rRLZA_wz5UeDrMsIfgkhoh68uMP5_SvZkY83Ena3UyBjkKGaQCne97fSka5iJJAF1V75SVMw3d23h7hkUkd3-uJZ5O4IzyJnp72CBk5bOQsNc6cWs7WXyrI3Po=s2160" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2160" data-original-width="2160" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgsC10BXyaHJIrPcSn4wuvl2EYiuKe7z05974bhTsjcPxJwuUi6DiA25_ZJdtNB7-rRLZA_wz5UeDrMsIfgkhoh68uMP5_SvZkY83Ena3UyBjkKGaQCne97fSka5iJJAF1V75SVMw3d23h7hkUkd3-uJZ5O4IzyJnp72CBk5bOQsNc6cWs7WXyrI3Po=w640-h640" width="640" /></a></div><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #134f5c;">8. Don’t you, forget about me— relive the 80s, whether it was your glory days or decade of excess, choose a throwback book from that time, either set in the 80’s or published in the 80’s.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><u>Bluebeard's Egg</u> by Margaret Atwood was published in 1983 and it does have a sharp and powerful vintage hue to it. Atwood is in turns witty and bleak with these tales. The short stories in this collection were more obscure and serpentine than the collection of short stories about women that I read previously (Local Girls). Still worth a gander. <span style="color: red;">***</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #134f5c;">9. Embrace your elemental—align with a fiery, earth, air or water feature in title/cover.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span><u>Baptism of Fire</u> by Andrzej Sapkowski, and well the whole Witcher series. I enjoyed tagging alongside Geralt and Dandelion's adventures. I do feel that the books did not merge seamlessly into one epic tale. It had many starts and stops and points of view. Sometimes I was semi-lost and others happily ensconced in the tale. Overall, I recommend reading it if you are a lover of fantasy. However, I would not re-read the books. Once was good enough for me. <span style="color: red;">**</span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #134f5c;">10. Rule of 3—three main characters, a friendly trio, love triangle or 3 objects on the cover.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span><u>The Witches of Eastwick</u> by John Updike was an entertaining read. It follows three women in New England who are joined by their life sorrows and magical abilities. An intriguing man moves into town and disrupts their small coven both for better and for worse. <span style="color: red;">***</span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #134f5c;">11. Font geek—if an appealing typeface catches your eye, give the book a try.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><u>Darwin's Ghosts</u> by Rebecca Stott, I mean, would you look at those fonts? I love them. I also loved this book. It is a well researched, non-fiction approach to to the men and women who set the stage for Darwin to emerge with his theories on evolution. Growing up as a Baptist kid, Darwin was uber taboo and his ideas discredited roundly. I am so happy that I have been able, over time, to education myself about him. This book was a joy for me to read. <span style="color: red;">***</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #134f5c;">12. Book that bites—snakes, bones or teeth on the cover or the title.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span><u>The Witch's Heart</u> by Genevieve Gornichec fit this prompt perfectly since the witch in question gave birth to a large wolf, snake and daughter, all of whom can be spied in the book art. This is the tale of the ice giant witch named Angrboda who fell in love with the Norse god Loki and bore his children: Fenrir, Jormungandr, and Hel. Their love story is bittersweet and the witch discovers much about herself. I love well written mythology tales and this is one of them. <span style="color: red;">***</span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #134f5c;">13. Go to the dark side—villains, rogues, bad bois or anti-heroines--pick your reading poison.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span><u>Talulla Rising</u> by Glen Duncan is certainly an anti-hero story about a fierce female werewolf and her struggle to save her children from a vampire clan. She is anything but nice, and is quite often very repulsive. This is the third book in a series but I read it as a stand alone and it was quite good. Very gory. Very gross. But I liked it. <span style="color: red;">***</span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #134f5c;">14. Note your improvement—read up on your favorite hobby, or new interest.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><u>The Green Witch</u> by Arin Murphy-Hiscock was a pleasant and uplifting read about the green path. This is not a religion or spiritual journey but a way of being, living in tune with the earth and surrounding elements, creatures, and life forms. It is a simple read and can be repetitive but is a wonderful foundational book. I ended up gifting it to another who was interested in beginning witchcraft. <span style="color: red;">***</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #134f5c;">15. Book with a map.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span><u>The Cruel Prince </u>by Holly Black was a fun young adult romp into fantasy. It was a gift from a friend and I enjoyed it so much I picked up the other two in the trilogy. It is a tale about a mortal girl and her twin who are raised by their fairy step-father who brutally murders their mother and father in the mortal world and kidnaps them along with their half-sister (who is half fae and half human). The girl grows up to love fairy and fights to fit in. It is an action packed story that should be read with the utmost suspension of reality. <span style="color: red;">***</span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span><span style="color: red;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj3sY_U-SYZZvxHTFMA9bZGT2_DitOdqjF8xkKBhegCkB4pMHhGYwMa8yKeNeem5XYRsImJGRgMsq2UvWjm8WnU11AeoPLHqs0sKffLDucRJEOVzpccAnaeSm6u-Gp5FGZZwbViZcQDMsE_xqKq7StMlhcRJ9QWW53WX7mI3bfVpQBkwkwjCShB-5i7=s2160" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2160" data-original-width="2160" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj3sY_U-SYZZvxHTFMA9bZGT2_DitOdqjF8xkKBhegCkB4pMHhGYwMa8yKeNeem5XYRsImJGRgMsq2UvWjm8WnU11AeoPLHqs0sKffLDucRJEOVzpccAnaeSm6u-Gp5FGZZwbViZcQDMsE_xqKq7StMlhcRJ9QWW53WX7mI3bfVpQBkwkwjCShB-5i7=w640-h640" width="640" /></a></div><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #134f5c;">16. Story set in, or written during the 1920s.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span><u>Dandelion Wine</u> by Ray Bradbury is set in the summer of 1928 and it simply took my breath away. The prose was beautiful, chilling, hilarious, and morose. This will be one I read again and again. It follows a pre-teen boy through his gamboling life with friends, hauntings, and bridging adulthood. Absolutely incredible. Please read. <span style="color: red;">***</span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #134f5c;">17. Comfort read—need a feel-good story right now, who doesn’t? The cozier, the better.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span><u>Lament</u> by Maggie Stiefvater is the first in a trilogy about a human teenage girl and the fae who are attracted to her like a magical magnet. I have not made my way to the second book but probably will at some point. This is one of my favorite author's but it is also one of her first books, so if you do read it it, don't judge her other works on it. It is a little weak. It is a young adult read. <span style="color: red;">**</span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #134f5c;">18. 2021 is the Year of the Ox, read a story with themes of hard work or manual labor. “Without labor, neither knowledge nor wisdom can accomplish much.”</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span><u>The Relic Master</u> by Christopher Buckley houses a tale about a medieval monk who gathers the bones and holy relics of revered dead saints and martyrs to sell to bishops and cardinals. He does work hard. But sometimes politics can be brutal one will do anything to avoid being burned on a pyre. This book is pretty funny at times. I loved reading from a fictitious point of view of some famous ancient real-life painters. <span style="color: red;">***</span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #134f5c;">19. The UN declared 2021 the International Year of Fruits and Vegetables- pick a book that has a cover ripe with edible plants.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span><u>The Poison Garden</u> by Alex Marwood was a random choice when I had some credits at ThriftBooks. It turned out to be a wild ride about a young lady who barely escapes a Welsh cult commune that she was raised within. Everyone dies except her and her siblings. The dark tale of the inner workings is still on going even after her perilous escape. <span style="color: red;">**</span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #134f5c;">20. Choose a book with regency couples- the art of smoldering eyes while maintaining social distancing.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span><u>Flush</u> by Virginia Woolf is a creative pull for this prompt but once I started reading it I knew it could fit. Flush is the biographical tale of a cocker spaniel during the mid to late 1800's that is born in the country and is gifted to an ill young mistress who lives in London. They share a special love and bond that does showcase some rather strange dewy eyed looks but is all in good nature. A wonderful story from the pup's perspective. <span style="color: red;">***</span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #134f5c;">21. Space Force, astronauts back on the moon and missions to Mars- read something out of this world.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span><u>Dune</u> by Frank Herbert filled this slot nicely. I am so happy I finally got around to reading this one. A great sci-fi adventure with unique worlds, strong characters, and a twisting story line. Sometimes I do want to slap some of the characters and sometimes it did drag and get overly complicated. But overall I am happy to have read it. I will probably not read the rest in the series. I am good with the one. <span style="color: red;">***</span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #134f5c;">22. Social Justice- read a book to provide more perspective.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span><u>Trevor Noah: Born A Crime</u> by Trevor Noah was a lent to me by a friend a couple years ago. I finally got around to reading it and I am happy I did (and yes I FINALLY got around to giving it back to her). Trevor writes with humor and poignancy. His descriptions of his youth are vivid. I learned much from this book. I had very little knowledge about apartheid in South Africa. <span style="color: red;">***</span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #134f5c;">23. Animated film adaptation.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #6aa84f;">This is the one prompt I did not get around to this year. I had every intention of reading my copy of <u>Howl's Moving Castle</u> but I simply did not get around to it. I know I will one day.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #134f5c;">24. Cooking up something more than just food in the kitchen: a chef inspired tale.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span><u>Good Luck With That</u> by Kristin Hannah is the story of three friends who met at fat camp as teenagers and grew into women who continued to struggle with their weight. One is a chef. It was hard to read at times given my own battles around food and weight but I pushed on. It was a decent book, a bit contrived at times and simply annoying at others, but not terrible. <span style="color: red;">**</span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #134f5c;">25. Poetry: Lyrical limericks, buried metaphors and big feelings. Dive right on in.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span><u>The Adventures of Tom Bombadil</u> by J. R. R. Tolkien is a wee book of poetry and so beautifully written. He is gently lyrical and paints with sunshine and moonbeams. Some I had to read three and four times because they were so tender and deft. <span style="color: red;">***</span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #134f5c;">26. Find small moments of adventure with some short stories.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span><u>The Penelopiad</u> by Margaret Atwood is technically only one short story but I think it still fits. If I am at a book store and I see Atwood on the spine of something I have not read then I always pick it up. This is the short tale of Odysseus' wife, Penelope, and her point of view of the famous events of the Odyssey. It is set up like a play with the handmaids as a chorus and it reads simply but powerfully. One can never quite tell if Penelope was as honorable as she was portrayed. <span style="color: red;">***</span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #134f5c;">27. Christmas in July anyone? Find a holiday centric story to read out of season.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span><u>The Loney</u> by Andrew Michael Hurley was an Easter story that I read in the fall. Granted a super creepy and gothic Easter story, but one nonetheless. This family in England goes on a pilgrimage during Lent to worship and petition God at this particular shrine and spring to "heal" a son's mental disability. It all goes tragically wrong. I quickly picked up the author's other two books (stand-alones) and have since enjoyed them as well. <span style="color: red;">***</span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #134f5c;">28. Brush up on a Native American tribe or historical event involving Native Americans.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #6aa84f;">OK, so technically this is another fail in a way. I bought and began reading <u>Blue Jacket</u> by Allan Eckert (a story about a white man who became a chief) only to find out that this "based on a true story" was really a perpetuated lie. Hate it. So I threw it away. Instead I read <u>Honoring Your Ancestors</u> by Mallorie Vaudoise but since I have no Native American ancestors this obviously doesn't count either. Loved that book by the way. Highly recommend. </span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #134f5c;">29. Pick a candy read, a fluff read, a junk food read. You know the kind. The guilty pleasure you can fly through in a day or two that makes you smile and reminds you that not every book has to be top shelf literature to be enjoyed.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span><u>Warm Bodies</u> by Isaac Maron is a young adult zombie love story that was popular years ago. I never got around to it but I am glad I finally did. A zombie boy falls in love with a healthy girl and they try to fight a sinister force together. I have not read the rest of the series but I was happy with the first book. It was entertaining, engaging and silly. <span style="color: red;">***</span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #134f5c;">30. Royalty reading: monarchies of the past, present or fantastical times.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span><u>The Wicked King</u> by Holly Black was the second book in the <i>Cruel Prince </i>series and was a fun read as well. <span style="color: red;">**</span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span><span style="color: red;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgXd37oL_X-tMrvlECVUJcYaMqkQtKWrHvCRD0g3LzdQv37Rm7ftR_SXLrBeRwYkeZsnBY5Ir8mwNul2ISNd9o81GB_oNFZuU-l6PRj9W3kS0ww9JIj00hjK9RhkpUrpQ9ncNf5Bb2s_UIRUcfhbYCRXzGVnPK4JBPsNU9hFjhtmqey4Oqpozp-YOnz=s2160" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2160" data-original-width="2160" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgXd37oL_X-tMrvlECVUJcYaMqkQtKWrHvCRD0g3LzdQv37Rm7ftR_SXLrBeRwYkeZsnBY5Ir8mwNul2ISNd9o81GB_oNFZuU-l6PRj9W3kS0ww9JIj00hjK9RhkpUrpQ9ncNf5Bb2s_UIRUcfhbYCRXzGVnPK4JBPsNU9hFjhtmqey4Oqpozp-YOnz=w640-h640" width="640" /></a></div><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #134f5c;">31. Thinning of the veil- tales involving ghosts, spirits or spectral phenomena.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span><u>The October Country</u> by Ray Bradbury is a collection of spooky short stories to evoke fall, imagination and nostalgia. Gosh darn it. I am in a Bradbury obsession and I simply cannot get enough. <span style="color: red;">***</span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span><span style="color: red;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhYHg2JjynyJ_DLxxce-jAJDKMILzguUcqJ8qYY2iHYEvlDTyeuP0ZrI5MH_pklO20gK3JMFsfqz0hJlOebAOV59XU8vMvXELxVKNWNl7_NGHojZJN6GLFVaJv0fsB78i0tmIY5PFrl6RaFo2yPZz4ZTQz6HUZniq8XFF3BvHhanll3-iDdfXXaPoaE=s2799" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1834" data-original-width="2799" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhYHg2JjynyJ_DLxxce-jAJDKMILzguUcqJ8qYY2iHYEvlDTyeuP0ZrI5MH_pklO20gK3JMFsfqz0hJlOebAOV59XU8vMvXELxVKNWNl7_NGHojZJN6GLFVaJv0fsB78i0tmIY5PFrl6RaFo2yPZz4ZTQz6HUZniq8XFF3BvHhanll3-iDdfXXaPoaE=w640-h420" width="640" /></a></div><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #134f5c;">Some other books I read this year (a total of 51 books so far): Blood Bound and Iron Kissed (more fun and funny Mercy Thompson series), Celtic Magic, The Girl From the Other Side manga series, lots of David Sedaris. I plan on reading more David Sedaris and manga and witchy books in 2022. I would also like to finally read Name of the Wind which I have been sitting on for about 6 years. The Bird King. Sawkill Girls. More Atwood, Hoffman and Bradbury (of course). I recently picked up some Bradbury signed first editions from a used bookstore in Baton Rouge. Worth every penny. I would also like to read more poetry and fantasy. </span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; white-space: pre-wrap;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhMV6P9yEGnPmzW6kevtw0ILaK9_0qS3xTP3xCc4bxGY7TURKO33CclfVnvRQ2PyPrF_E78q-19Sbgk_d6LZVM9Nz88w6EOxSdGoudvPk6KwZsj4jPf32qHehDJIvGMizxiu22RvZOgRO81I-uBtYGLeHk9rXAkelVLce8hrN3wgahU4u43SnK7Wd80=s2925" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2925" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhMV6P9yEGnPmzW6kevtw0ILaK9_0qS3xTP3xCc4bxGY7TURKO33CclfVnvRQ2PyPrF_E78q-19Sbgk_d6LZVM9Nz88w6EOxSdGoudvPk6KwZsj4jPf32qHehDJIvGMizxiu22RvZOgRO81I-uBtYGLeHk9rXAkelVLce8hrN3wgahU4u43SnK7Wd80=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: #134f5c;">How about you? What are your reading goals? What books will live on in your heart space that you read this year?</span></span></div>TheRedolentMermaidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12025330454820306972noreply@blogger.com9