Rise and shine, it's Hump Day. Birthdays today: Charley Pride, Queen Latifah. (A quick psa: the swapmeet has been postponed to April 18.) What fragrance are you wearing?
I'm taking early community project points in Hermès Eau de Néroli Doré.
Reminder: 3/20 will be the International Day of Happiness. Wear the perfume that most reliably increases your happiness!
And for those of you who like to plan ahead, see Scent of the day ~ Friday community projects 2020, where I'll try to always have the next five or six weeks mapped out in advance.
Note: top image is Good Morning [cropped] by Natalia Medd at flickr; some rights reserved.
That’s perfect – I will wear Queen Latifah Queen today which can be both in honor of her birthday and a happy fragrance for the CP.
In other news, we thought we might have a gas leak due to a terrible sewer like smell in the house, but gas was checked out and A-OK, so now we think it might be a dead animal in ductwork. Oh and my boss thinks he has coronavirus. Didn’t sleep well. Please share some good news if you have some!
I am so sorry springpansy!
I hope someone will come along with some excellent news to cheer you up. The best I have this morning is that we almost broke our toilet last night trying to install a wand bidet, but we managed in the end to get it fixed. So I still don’t have a wand bidet but now I am pleased just to have a working toilet
Robin, glad the outcome was positive, that’s hilarious ?
? True
I’m so glad that you can always look on the bright side of life
Lol!
Perspective! ?
You can always use that squirt bottle they give you when you come home from the hospital with a baby, The poor man’s bidet
Here’s to no toilet paper!
Yeah, why did I not keep that thing? That’s what you get for throwing away everything that does not spark joy
Ha!
Haha! Well, the shower works, too ?
Oh My! People
Are making jokes about socks losing their mates and ending up as toilet paper. There is cute comic out there somewhere today!
My brother is one of those people making jokes about the socks! So funny to hear someone else mention it. ?
Haha – that did help a bit. But good luck with the wand!
I just want to call it ‘The Magic Wand’!
Many years ago, when I was dead set on using cloth diapers, I bought a wand / sprayer attachment from ebay (tons of excellent reviews) and we tried to install it. Big fail!
Oof! Well, I’m glad things aren’t worse than they started! I hear bidets are sold out on Amazon.
Not surprised. I ordered mine last Friday. We had been thinking for several months about getting a fancy Toto Washlet (my dad got one last winter) but we’ve not yet gotten around to having an electrician over to put in an outlet by the toilet.
Thank you for the laugh Robin, a working toilet is an essential item.
Ack! So glad you still have a working toilet.
Oh no, springpansy, I’m so sorry ? We had a mouse die under the refrigerator a couple years ago – we hired our cat Larry to be a mouser in our ancient house and while he got a mouse and played with it for ages, he let it get away without actually killing it ? We couldn’t locate the smell for a few days and that was bad enough! News wise, there was a fox in my mother’s backyard that we got to watch yesterday, that was pretty cool. And the birds are singing and the jonquils are coming up. Big hugs –
Thanks. Maybe we’ll pull out the fridge and check, just in case! Love the birds and jonquils. ♥
Springpansy, I am so sorry. What a pile of bad news.
Nothing really good from me, but my garden is full of lovely smells. There’s that at least.
Thanks. I’ll take that – lovely garden smells are definitely good news. And we have sunshine, so that’s good, too.
We found complete skeletons of mice when we torn down some walls years ago. Weirdly like a museum shelf.
Interesting. I may never know what’s behind all these walls…
Yikes, what a pile of events. I’m so glad you didn’t have a gas leak.
Good news? I just found out about LVMH switching their perfume factory to a hand sanitizer plant. It made me really happy that they put profit to the side.
(My apologies if my good news is old news. I needed a digital break for a few days.)
Agree about LVMH. Yay!
Hoping the bad smell situation will get resolved and that your boss will find that it’s a false alert.
Thanks. Ducts getting cleaned out tomorrow and they probably needed it anyway. Hoping that will help.
What a pile of stress you didn’t need! My wisteria is blooming and we had a warm gloriously sunny day yesterday. Hang in there!
Oh, wisteria, lovely! I hope your trip goes wonderfully well. Thinking of you!
Ugh, what a pile of “YUK!” to deal with. My good-ish news is that one of my cats has been very snuggly in temperament today, so I have had a purring couch buddy multiple times.
Snuggly kitties are great news! Thanks.
Posting quite late, but I’m sorry about your smell woes! What awful timing while you’re stuck working from home.
I have a funny smell story from my last day working in the office on Monday. In the morning, I kept smelling something foul, like rotting food in the garbage. I asked my coworker in front of me, but she didn’t smell it. I was getting freaked out because it was so strong. I had an old-ish banana at my desk, so I went ahead and ate it. Nope, that wasn’t it. Coworker in front of me finally says she smells it too. My manager who sits next to me but across a short wall had been on the phone while we’d been discussing the smell. She finally chimes in and says, “Oh, it might be my kimchi.” It had been sitting in her lunch cooler on top of her desk for the last hour! It was definitely the kimchi so it was taken to the fridge right away. I love kimchi but don’t love smelling it at my desk.
Oh, yeah. Like some of those smelly cheeses. I like eating them, but not always smelling them and definitely not when I’m captive at my desk!
I’m wearing Dame Peach Blossom, Violet & Vanilla. I was reluctant to try the sample, because I really dislike vanilla, but so far, its just a gentle floral on my skin. Pretty enough.
Good morning everyone, and happy Wednesday!
PSA: I don’t remember who was having an issue with earache…was it Oakland Fresca? If it is a swimmers ear situation, here’s a recipe for ear drops that can be used after swimming or even after showers. My mom used a version of this recipe on me and my sisters in the summer when we were constantly at the pool, and it kept our ears healthy.
I don’t know how easy it will be to get the ingredients, but maybe this info will be helpful to someone. ?
https://www.peoplespharmacy.com/articles/triathlete-has-simple-remedy-to-prevent-pain-from-swimmers-ear
Oh, perfume! I’m in Ouarzazate layered over Ancient Resins, a fragrant reminder to stay calm and serene. I wasn’t very serene yesterday, so will try harder today.
You smell great Nancyleandros! It’s a struggle to stay serene. I am going to sit down with my 10% Happier app this morning for sure.
That sounds like an app worth looking into ?
Hah, someone else recommended that to me recently, too — going to look it up now!
Here is a podcast talking to the person who wrote the app…
https://peterattiamd.com/danharris/
I also find it very helpful to meditate to music that I’ve already heard in yoga–there is something about already having relaxed to a certain piece of music that really works for me. If the music comes on I immediately relax my shoulders and start to pay attention to my breathing.
So I especially like Adi Shakti Mantra (Long Ek Ong Kar) by Karina Skye, but I think that’s mostly because the teacher who played it a lot was really good. Also it is 7 minutes long, and it is not so hard to talk myself into 7 minutes. And if you memorize the words so that you can chant along, it really does help keep your mind empty.
But I am a meditation newbie in every way! My sister goes on week-long silent retreats, which I used to think was crazy but now I see the point.
That sounds really great Robin! I go to a weekly in-person meditation, but also try to sit at home, though the in-person keeps me motivated and I’ve been slacking, lol.
For any early risers (and I hope it’s ok for me to post this- it’s by-donation, if you can donate, but fine if you can’t, too). My meditation teacher’s wife is doing a daily 8-8:30 am (Eastern) zoom guided mediation. I like her and find her very calming. Great way to start a day…
https://m.facebook.com/groups/18565509512?view=permalink&id=10158003037754513
Or:
https://www.dharmapunxnyc.com
I go to a short meditation once in a blue moon at the Y where I do yoga. A couple weeks ago I tried a 1 hour zen meditation at my local Friends church…boy, that was hard. Still will do it again when they can hold it again. There is another group that meets near here for 2 hours every Sunday, and I will eventually try that too.
Thanks for the link, I will try that if I am up at 8 this week!
I wish I could meditate, but the bag of rats that is my brain fights the attempt. The closest I’ve come is the Calm app, the 3 or 5 minute meditations – can’t manage the 10. I’ll check out the one you mentioned, Robin. At yoga I’m always distracted by the other people breathing, the heat, the smell – just not good at lying on the floor serenely.
To everyone who replied yesterday re: Theorema, I will keep my $176 for now and hope someone is interested in a split sometime in the future.
Anngd, LOL at bag of rats! It really is hard. One of the things that I like about 10% happier is that they are not heavy on rules or “you’re doing it wrong”, quite the opposite. If you sit and try you did it right.
I would not spend $176, that’s crazy!
My good friend loves that one. Good for you Robin. I enjoy it as well.
Oh, I need to look into that app, thanks! I’ve had a better day today – home workout and a nice walk. Hardly any TV viewing, so I think I see the connection. ?
Thanks for the recipe! I swim a lot, or used to. And I’ve always liked Ouarzazate.
You’re so welcome! I hope it helps. ?
Wearing Acqua di Parma Iris Nobile EDT. A sunny scent.
Thank you for all your birthday wishes yesterday. Because of all this COVID19 stress I was not in the best mood for celebration, but you cheered me up a lot. And I did have some good time with a sparkling wine and a video game.
Happy belated birthday
Thank you!
You smell gorgeous, and happy belated birthday!
Thank you!
I’m so glad you had sparkling wine and fun!
Glad you had some fun!
I’m thinking of postponing my May 4th birthday to the fall. It’s not a good time right now.
Definitely a good idea if you want to invite people to your place or celebrate in a restaurant. There is no guarantee though that things will get better in fall.
True unfortunately!
May is a good ways away, and all may be well on the track to normal by then if we all do our best now. (as we seem to be) You still have everything to be grateful for that truly matters. Stay positive.
I say this having survived 2 commercial real estate market crashes and an IT crash. Now retired I have a long view and also my own concerns, but remain hopeful as I know we are resilient.
I’m definitely postponing mine!
Happy bleated birthday! Glad you enjoyed yourself a bit!
Thank you!
Happy belated birthday! I’m glad you celebrated well.
Thank you!
Happy belated birthday! If I may, what game are you playing? I bought myself a Switch for the quarantine and its been getting lots of use.
Unavowed by Wadjet Eye. A cool point-and-click adventure game, but it is PC/Mac only, I am afraid.
If you like story-driven adventures, have a look at Sexy Brutale. Do not be put off by the name – nothing sexy is happening there. It is a murder mystery with time-travelling, and art and music are amazing. It is on Switch.
Belated Happy Birthday!
very glad to hear your birthday brought you some smiles.
Yay for having some fun and a bit of celebration on your B-day!
House twin with Robin in Eau des Merveilles.? Woke up to a layer of snow! I was not expecting that. I’m off work now til Monday and with the exception of a planned early morning run to the grocery tomorrow to restock, we have no plans of going anywhere. I took vacation days to spend with my college girl and was looking forward to our usual ladies day activities….shopping, lunch, movies, etc. Now it will be a true staycation and later today we’re planning a spa day with face masks and doing each other’s nails. Trying to make the best of it!
Oh yay, that sounds like fun!
It should be, I might even be able to talk them into a massage if money is involved.?
You smell great! Enjoy your daughter! My son arrives Friday and I am so relieved to see him. I am missing him to the point of tears lately- probably just overwhelmed due to current events, but nevertheless can’t wait to hug him tight.
That sounds really fun. I hope you guys have a great time! You smell super fabulous.
yay for Merveilles!
You smell sparkly and beautiful. I hope you enjoy the well-deserved respite from regular life.
Beautiful photo!
In my wanderings through the woods yesterday, I met a geologist and we had a nice chat at the requisite distance. We both had cabin fever and needed to get out between raindrops.
He pointed out some interesting things and then recommended a park up the road to see some gorgeous features. We talked about John Wesley Powell (I’d forgotten he was one of America’s earliest geologists!), his teaching and students, more and more of which were women he was delighted to tell me, and his time doing research on the Juneau Ice Fields which he described as “The defining moment in my life.”
See folks, there’s a lot of nice people out here. I haven’t run into an axe wielding madman in FOREVER! ?
SOTD is PHI:
https://instagram.com/stories/vantasticviews/2267255232463893930?utm_source=ig_story_item_share&igshid=1rxz9z53m0zgl
Middle kid and I are going hiking this weekend no matter what! I told her we can surely find a waterfall or forest with limited people and lots of scenery!
Yes, get on out there! The good thing about living a normal life in a house is that you can come home, jump in a hot shower, throw the wet, dirty hiking clothes in the wash and settle down with a good movie and cozy perfume. Your AT daughter needs to acclimate herself to rain if she want to do the AT! She needs good weatherproof top layers…?
Great news, thanks. I needed that story about good people!
Good people are all around you. Just look for them. They’re stocking grocery shelves, taking care of the sick and infirm, sacrificing for the protection of their loved ones. ✌?
Thanks for sharing! I need to get out and get some fresh air for sure. It’s been unusually rainy here so that combined with the current events have me feeling pretty grim. My son arrives this weekend and we are going to try and do some beach walking (just strolling on a beach, not partying like some spring breakers still are haha) and then are going up to Sequoia NP mid next week. Hoping nature helps as it usually does.
I just read that the National Park Service is closing visitor’s centers and such. But the parks and the trails will still be open.
Some states are closing their state park systems, like Arizona and New Mexico, others are staying open to help people who may otherwise be displaced, like here in Arkansas. Federal campgrounds are open as far as I know- at least the ones in National forests, but are not being manned.
Glad it’s been a while since you’ve run into axe wielding psychopaths. Not that I doubt your ability to deal with them ?
T-Rex is my secret weapon! ?
You smell great. I’m so glad it’s sunny here, and that everyone walking their dogs on opposite sides of the street are so nice.
? Just make sure you’re upwind!
Geologists rock!!! ( Someone had to say it ) Have you ever read Passage to Juneau (Raban). You might like it. I like his travel writing quite a bit
?❣️
How many more days on the road do you figure you have, if you don’t mind saying?
My contract starts 3/30. I’m not in any rush to start. Honestly, if I felt more comfortable with my savings, I would just wait a month or so. (And, this past week I’ve been getting exorbitant pay offers for ER positions, which I have worked before, for several years) I have spoken with a travel RN I met in Reno, who is now staff at this hospital, working in PACU. Elective surgeries have been cut way back, but this is also a level II (soon to be level I) trauma hospital, so she is still working her regular shifts. We didn’t get into the whole Covid-19 thing too much as we were primarily texting through instagram. And let’s face it, by 3/30, we could be talking a whole new reality. The biggest concern being lack of ventilators for the critically ill needing pulmonary support. But I did see a brief article about “chaining” multiple people to a single ventilator. Not sure how this works, but it may be something we have to do. ??♀️
Gotcha. Stay safe out there!
Good morning Y’all….
Back in Versace Versence. It’s just so springy and pretty!
Yes it is!
Chanel Coco EDP and drinking a cup of Hazelnut Cookie Tea.
You smell great. Wish I had an actual hazelnut cookie. I find myself wanting to stress eat today lol.
In day 4 of lockdown and enjoying Cloon Keen Atelier “Sybarite”.
It’s a cloudy, windy day with an amber alert for coastal wind and waves – I am relying on local media to show the pics, because for some reason strolling down to the beach to watch waves doesn’t count as essential travel. But – going to the supermarket for food does, so I shall be going out later this afternoon, for an exciting 8 minute walk to a shop. (Admittedly, SuperCor is a very decent supermarket, a bit like Waitrose in the UK).
TOMK is a bit despondent because of an article suggesting this isolation period will last more than 15 days. TBH I had assumed as much from the beginning: the 15 days is a constitutional limit on the “State of Alarm”, and the longest the Executive can specify without getting backing from the Legislature. I expect either an extension, or a vote to approve one of the other states of exception the constitution here permits.
I am watching the Italian stats for signs the climb rate is falling. There is a 2-3 week time lag between taking any counter-measure and picking up how it is affecting recorded infections. It will be easier to put up with this isolation when we know – can see – we are saving lives by doing so. So, by the end of this week or early next, we’ll hopefully see that the Italian lockdown has at least slowed the advance. *Bon courage* to all! :^)
Hi Koenigsberg! You continue to be my hero this week. Our office is not being great about allowing telework and your post from a few days ago has given me the moral fortitude to speak up and push back. My boss probably wishes he never has to hear the phrase “public health” from my lips again! But he shall.
Good for you! Glad you’re standing up for your health and for the good of society!
That is good to hear. I think it’s the right thing to do right now.
Thanks for that clear explanation, Koenigsberg!
I was searching that this morning and also read that by the end of this week, hopefully, there should be an effect in Italy – hopefully one marked enough to give everyone hope and better motivation to keep self-isolating and so on.
I was so glad to see your post the other day and to read that you and TOMK are together. I hope you have an excellent walk outside – enjoy the supermarket!
Ha! I bought too much and struggled to get it home! I’m so used to doing several trips every week. ?
The figure I’m hearing is 4 months isolation for those over 70 or with chronic/immunocompromised health problems. Let us hope it won’t be that bad.
That would be rough, but the alternative isn’t so great either. Let’s take it a day at a time.
Wearing Atelier des Ors Iris Fauve. A pretty, clean, cozy, powdery iris. I am enjoying the sample, but not full bottle worthy for me.
I stopped checking the news since last night. I will do it only once a day to keep sanity. Looking forward to walking with my dog at lunch time. We have a beautiful, sunny day here. It will be nice!
Enjoy your sunny day.
I also find checking the news too much is stressing me out badly. My nerves have been shot for days. I think I’ll join you in only checking it once a day.
Thank you, KellyC! I feel very depressed already and checking the news many times a day was affecting me
very badly emotionally. I need balance and once a day checking the news is enough to keep me informed. Let’s try to be not only physically, but also emotionally well. Hugs!
Absolutely!
I’m with you on the negativity <3 This is hard! I don't need to check the news at all, because my mother will spend half an hour this evening telling me about all the newest and worst data and stressing me out.
Fortunately, my mother is not going crazy with the news these days. She keeps herself informed, of course, but has decided to watch other type of tv shows. I appreciate that.
My husband does the same.
It’s hard. I am writing crisis communications so I have to know constant updates across agencies. I feel nutty.
Ugh. That is rough. What a roller coaster.
That must be very hard indeed. Hope you have some time to relax.
Enjoy that sun! I was thinking about my local news, and how the ratings must be up. I think they were low because we didn’t have any major weather this winter.
Thank you, Lillyjo! Local news are at the highest rating point now. I wish they could talk about something else, but they are focusing 99% of the time in the coronavirus.
I am grateful for NST and the opportunity to relax my mind reading all the comments here. Thanks Robin and all of you NSTers.
You are so right, what a refuge this is, and twice a day is good for me.
I’m checking the news twice a day. That’s all I need. My phone is actually in a drawer now.
Since I am working from home and not going out, except for walks, I check the news around midday. Not easy, but I have been successful so far!
It is really nice out. Enjoy the walk!
I am back already! It is gorgeous outside! I will take a short walk later tonight.
I will join you in a dog walk in the beach. What a perfect de-stresser.
It is very relaxing! Enjoy your walk!
Took de afternoon off and visited my sister. She owns a store and has a rough time right now. ?
I hope the measures our government will implement soon (for keeping people employed an saving businesses) turn out to be enough to get her through
SotD Palais Jamais
Very nice spring scent!
Sending positive thoughts for your sister.
Thank you!
Her boyfriend is entrepreneur as well, and had lots of orders cancelled. So they are in a very tight spot, with two children who need to stay at home right now.
But her suppliers are lenient when it comes to paying bills and luckily our government really has intentions to help everybody with temporary funding, low interests on loans, tax benefits and / or delayed tax payments.
Fingers crossed.
Love this, fingers crossed.
Fingers crossed for your sister! What kind of store does she keep?
She sells clothing, bags, shoes and coffee.
She serves coffee ‘to go’ as well and there are some seats in the store (4 tables),
But her shop does not have a ‘horeca’ permit, so she doesnt need to close…yet
She opened the shop just a year ago.
I’m crossing my fingers for your sister.
Yeah, I’m really feeling for small business owners right now . I hope they can find a way to sustain these people everywhere!
So hard for small business and artists, I hope things work out for your sister and all affected.
Fingers crossed for your sister!
Wearing Chanel 19 for a reassuring scent of normalcy and good sense.
I’ve let mom’s caretakers go except her main one so I’m back to five full days a week, not hard as the rest of life has stopped. I decided to make the effort to wear makeup, a decent outfit and jewelry for my time spent with her since I’m her contact with the outside world (a change from my usual flannel shirt and bare face.) Since mom was so sick in January and early February, she is now very frail at 92 and COVID-19 would finish her, but she’s been homebound for six weeks. Fortunately she doesn’t watch TV so she’s not too afraid. Nice to talk to you guys
Hugs for you and your mom. You’re smelling great (I was in that one yesterday). I think wearing a good outfit, jewelry, perfume, etc., is always good to keep one’s spirits lifted.
Thanks for the hug and I totally agree with you! It’s just that I’m fundamentally lazy
Biggest hugs to you and your mom. You’ve inspired me to go put on eyeliner!
Love this.
I put makeup on yesterday, but can’t be bothered today as it’s raining so I might not even get to walk the dog. Probably won’t even change out of my sweats. LOL.
Stay safe, both of you, ringthing! And I just went and put on mascara in your honor.
Oh ringthing I wish I could give you a big hug. You are a wonderful thoughtful person & a loving daughter. Your mom is a lucky woman. (You brought back some special memories for me just now.)
You picked the perfect scent.
Thank you so much, AngelaB, that means a lot ❤️
I’m still in a good mood. The weather is gorgeous, I can go for walks, and I hope my wool order will arrive some time next week. French postal services are running, as are ours, but they are busy.
I put on some Amoureuse this morning and am still enjoying its powerful embrace. It’s a happy scent and therefore calming.
The company I rent my house from wanted to install a new heater tomorrow. After I mentioned that I have some very minor cold symptoms (occasional cough, the remnants of a sore throat) they cancelled. I’m actually quite sure that it might as well be due to all the pollen in the air, but then again I can’t be sure.
Tea is a nice MF; Montagne d’Or.
I overheard someone on the street who was sneezing, saying to someone passing by ” its hay fever, NOT Corona!”
But then again…its hard to be sure right now.
And common cold and flus are also still around of course. ?
Gorgeous weather twins! Our mornings are so clear and crisp. Have you noticed clearer skies, with fewer aeroplane vapour trails in Europe? We don’t have many planes down here anyway but yesterday the Chile to Sydney plane flew overhead ( it left a vapour trail so I noticed) …probably the last big international jet for a while.
I live near the airport and there are definitely less planes. Covid is bad for people but good for the planet.
Our skies haven’t been that clear and I didn’t go for a walk today as one of my feet is hurting. It needs a rest.
It is a lot quieter outside and in a way I’m enjoying that, if it were not for all the wrong reasons ( the quietness).
I wish I still had a dog, it would have been the perfect companion in this odd time!
I had the strangest of conversations with one of my neighbours; as I’m still coughing I prefer not to visit them as both have elderly parents, but we had an animated discussion about garden work through the fence, while we could not actually see each other.
Yay for good mood and gorgeous weather!
Thank you, shall I send you some of both?
I have the good mood today. Sun is shining but if you could send me 10 more degrees that would be perfection, ha…
We’re going to get those 10 more degrees Friday! ??
Wearing Tigress Musk right now and about to get into the shower. Good news is that 2 cellphone cases are coming today and a day early. What sucks is the teleconferencing with people. My counselor is doing appointments over the phone today and I had to do one yesterday too. Later on today, I have to do another. One perk is that I don’t have to leave the house to go to these things. I am probably going to have to go grocery shopping. I might not get exactly what I want but that’s ok. I think that either vintage Miss Dior or vintage BaV will work today.
Sorry you are not liking the teleconferencing Dawn!
I have to go to the store tomorrow as well, will keep my fingers crossed for both of us. If panic buyers have bought up all the fresh beets I will be crying in the produce aisle — I can make do without toilet paper I guess but I have to have roasted beets.
Black Orchid. Just one spritz so as not to overwhelm the office. Wish I was home and could spray liberally.
Ooh that is a GREAT teleworking perfume, I must wear it tomorrow!
Isn’t it? I’m still at the office or I would have sprayed with abandon!
That’s one I prefer to dab. You smell great!
You smell so good!
Sweet scents are still trending right? ..so i always wonder why i dont encounter BLack Orchid more often in malls and cafés. I think its one of the better gourmands that is widely available.
You smell wonderful! That’s one of the many perfumes that gets ignored for long periods and when I put some on I wonder why I don’t wear it more often.
You smell lovely. I hope your stress levels go way down once your son arrives. Big hugs to you.
Black Orchid is BIG on me. Not a good idea to spray more than once!
Currently sampling Eau de Patou which is a cheerful little cologne
Nice!
Teleworking for today at least in delicious Tabac Blond.
Oh, very nice choice Regina.
I feel like I “cracked” Narcisse Noir parfum the other day and it finally revealed it’s strange beauty to me. Now to keep my eyes peeled at antiques malls and flea markets for that perfect little art deco bottle, at least when we’re allowed to go out again.
Today I’m in L’Heure Bleue. I’ve been craving rich scents lately, the same way I do desserts. For the comfort, I guess.
Good luck — and if you happen to find 2 do pick one up for me
Queen of Hearts, why not? I have a mini (5 mls) of this. but rarely wear it.
Why not, exactly.
I’m wearing Shalimar EDC, which reminded me.. where’s LTSG?
My daughter keeps saying ” I think this will be over April 1st” she repeats it over and over, like a magic spell.
I hope your daughter is right. I will join her in that mantra. You smell divine of course. Love Shalimar edc.
Shalimar belongs to you and ltsg in my head?
I was wonder the same about ltsg…
I love your daughter, lol. I hope your kids are handling this without too much anxiety!
Mainly they are bored. I just try to reassure them that it will be ok.
I hope you are doing okay work-wise, juggling all the adjustments with life, school etc. At least it’s not snowing!
Believe me, I keep saying at least it’s not snowing! Work is still annoying, but it’s work. As my uncle used to say… you’re working, quit complaining! Lol
I think your daughter is cute and if it helps her to stay positive why not?
You smell great and I went for a classic too.
Thanks Aurora. I’m trying to stay positive, and obviously still smell good ?
That is adorable about your daughter! She’s not the only one hoping for a relatively quick end to all of this. But, better to prepare and not need…
Preparing the best I can.
Good time to go through my samples, so I put on ELDO Rien. Just smells like incense to me -but not a beautiful incense.
I will put on Queen later as well!
Has anyone else considered the delusion that they willed the coronavirus by wishing “I wish everything were canceled” too many times?
*Queen*
Nice birthday tribute!
Oh I actually really enjoy Rien! I think you smell great!
I adore Rien, so I think you smell wonderful. Rien isn’t just about incense though, so maybe some of the other notes are bothering you.
Yeah I love incense, but I don’t love leather – I don’t specifically smell it – but I do see that it is the top listed note on Fragrantica
I was unimpressed with Rien as well, not enjoyable on my skin too strong and chemical, and also it has cumin.
I had found myself wishing that I could just stay home, due to working two jobs (one fir tax season) before all of the self-quarantine business. Now I find myself wishing i could just go hang out at a coffee shop or my gym, I’ll stay 6 feet away from anyone else, pretty please will you open back up? Sigh, don’t know what I got ‘till it’s gone…
Oh, good song.
?yes. I guess we have to try to enjoy but this season has to offer.
I have been thinking that this could be an episode of twighlite zone.
https://g.co/kgs/2AunCC
Yes! I think most people of a certain age have seen that episode – before cable and you just watched whatever was on TV – as a glasses wearer since two years old that episode really stuck with me
It has stuck with me too. Alot of that show, actually. I look back and think why were we all watching this show at such impressionable ages?
The last perfume I wore this week was Dame’s Peach, Water lily, and Amber. My work closed this week indefinitely and I and many of my co-workers will be bored senseless an $$$-less for a while. Am trying to keep up a “serenity of countenance” (per Mr. Darcy, haha), but it’s difficult. I get periodic weepy spells from time to time. Our new kitten, Buddy, does his best to cheer me up with his antics and galloping across the room chasing things. I have been watching some concerts that I DVR’d and saving on tv – Doobie Bros, the Stones, George Harrison – since music is always a balm for bajiggity nerves. Will probably go for a walk in a little bit for some exercise/sanity help. And for those of you who are also interested in home decor/furnishings, I found a website called Neptune, whose stores are based in the UK. For some reason I find their website to be quite soothing and calming to peruse (or maybe I’m just odd like that, idk). I also echo numerous posters above re: The News. I just don’t watch it anymore. My local paper’s front page contains enough gloom ‘n’ doom for the whole day. It’s nice to able to *chat* with you all, and please keep those spirits up!
I’m sorry
I hope you will find projects to keep yourself occupied (though not paid 
). I am luckily able to work from home and am therefore still getting paid, but I am worried about a lot of the hourly employees at my workplace who need to be onsite to work. We still don’t know if they are getting paid during this time.
Biggest hugs to you.
Sending you hugs! I can just imagine how unsettling that is, but sounds like you’re doing things to keep from dwelling and sinking. And I love that word “bajiggity” ?
Hugs. Limiting News intake, and social media, is probably a smart self care move right now. I’m down to a single newscast a day of my local news. I should increase the amount of exercise I get… that usually makes me feel better.
I feel a lot of the same, GG! hang in there, snorgle that kitten every chance you get.
Agree with Elisa P, now bajiggity is my new favorite word.
Ginger Piccante, which to me is liquid laughter and delight. I feel like the word “ingenue” might apply.
Be well, my friends, physically and mentally.
I need some liquid laughter and delight!
I think we all do right now! I hope you find the scent that gives you that
I really must seek that out once we’re back to some kind of normalcy!
Yes, it has gotten a lot of NST love! Once I work my way through this decant, I will start hankering after a botle.
Love that description, so lovely, stay well too.
Thanks, Aurora! Have you gotten a chance to try it? Hope you are not in much danger in the UK.
That sounds so good right now.
It was great, and lasted ~14 h
Ingenue describes Ginger Piccante to a T!
Ah, isn’t it wonderful? Thank you so much for introducing me to it! I will be very sad when I use up your generous decant.
Kelly Calèche perfume today from my little bottle. I’m going to spray with abandon! Time to indulge.
We did go for a walk yesterday. It felt like a holiday in August or something in NYC. We stopped in grocery, which started to make me edgy. Very long line of people. I have the mobile app for shopping so got us in and out much quicker. Still…don’t want to do that again. The walk was nice though. And we had a lovely pot roast dinner cooked by my husband. I’ll be enjoying some leftovers for a late lunch.
Doorman in our building said many people have cleared out, and the building is a lot emptier. I know my next door neighbors are not home, but hadn’t noticed anyone else gone on the floor. We currently have a few apartments for sale, which likely won’t see much interest for a while.
I do wish I was up in Tahoe or the cabin in the Sierras we had when I was growing up….
I wish I had a cabin in the woods right now!!
Just not the one from the movie “Cabin in the Woods.” (An over-the-top comedy horror film)
I’m not looking forward to the next time I have to get groceries. But at least perishables are easy to get hold of, for the most part.
I’m debating if I even need to get perishables this weekend; if I don’t I’m still okay as I have bread substitute (frozen waffles or pancakes) or vegetables (I have frozen) or protein (I have a few bags of beans to make bean soup besides some frozen sausages, chicken, meatballs, fish)… pasta (I think I need to get pasta sauce but failing that, olive oil is good enough) and a few packages of TV dinner. It may be a good way to clear out the freezer.
MFK Cologne pour le Soir, from a swap with Koyel. If applied with a light hand, this is very lovely!
I announced to my younger daughter that her own personal home schooling would begin at 10AM today with math. And guess what – this morning her teachers contacted the class and there is work to be done in Google classroom! Yay! Hoping that we will not have to “shelter in place” for a few more days – I’m already not going anywhere except to walk the dog (and to go buy groceries once a week), but for now, there is the one hour a day where I meet with two friends and their dogs and our younger kids have that one hour to walk together and socialize. Admittedly, they are not good about 6ft apart, but they are not touching, not sharing screens, but rather looking for turtles and otters and running after the dogs….would hate for that to become not ok.
Oh good, glad there is still supervised schoolwork, that’s excellent. And join you in wishing we don’t end up with enforced quarantine, but if we have to do it to save lives I guess we will
We just started our “home school”. I decided to tackle PE first….
– now my daughter insists that any school worth its money needs to provide hot lunch to their students….
LOL…you tell her that any school for FREE, which is the one she is attending, needs to teach the students how to cook for their parents
My school district is distributing bag breakfast/lunch combos every day at designated spots.
Nice picture!
Folks, I will be dipping into my chocolate stash soon because Day 3 of WFH. I have plenty and just need to pace myself. Did I mention I moved my “office” to the kitchen? Yep, closer to food and more free flowing than my bedroom desk. I am also now using a table-top standing desk which meant that I needed to be more mindful of my footwear — pink fuzzy slippers do not have enough support for long standing periods. I am also just waiting for my phone / tablet holder (sturdier than what I currently have) and then I think I’m set for what I think will be an extended WFH period.
SOTD = Aftelier Alchemy
https://www.instagram.com/p/B94iCWBBPIE/?igshid=1awagop4pn80n
In other news, I got my Census 2020 letter yesterday, logged in and voila! Done!
Correction: Census 2020 letter arrived LAST WEEK and it was done immediately.
You painted quite a picture! It made me chuckle as I envisioned the whole scene. Don’t think I would do well working from home, not nearly disciplined enough. Wishing you well, at least you get to spray with abandon!
Thanks! I haven’t sprayed with abandon yet. I think I will start with Opium next week ?
Later today (when I get home) I’ll enjoy some 1000 Flowers Narcotic Flowers. I like our drugs of choice!
Hopefully I can find it!
Interesting, I don’t think I have ever heard you mention Opium before.
Maybe once, when I tried to clear out the sprayer at a Walgreens parking lot (far away from home) and ended up spraying myself instead ?
I have the most wonderful ( mad-looking) shearling lined birkenstocks. Could be just what you need
That’s a consideration ?
I also recently got a Census letter. Haven’t decided if I will fill it out, or if Mr Jalapeno will.
It was a lot shorter than I expected! I was done in < 5 minutes with half of that time spent inputting the password ?
For anyone at home looking for stuff to do / watch:
Death Cab for Cutie’s Ben Gibbard to Livestream Daily Concerts From Home
https://variety.com/2020/music/news/death-cab-for-cutie-ben-gibbard-livestream-concerts-from-home-1203536763/
Article lists some other bands that are streaming as well.
I’m wearing Las Flores by Provision Scents. Today I’ve meditated, done yoga, and am about to go back to preparing for my instruction to go “remote” tomorrow. I’m concerned about my students, especially my seniors who are so worried about graduation and prom. I am old enough to have some resilience to this kind of thing, but high school students don’t have that type of perspective yet. Wish I could give them hugs.
Oh well. I have work to figure out and lord knows there’s more meditation and yoga I can do. Thank goodness for perfume, birds, sweet pets and wonderful people. Oh, and my husband’s gym closed so he’s working out at home which is quite frankly cracking me up. I loved the shuttle runs between 2 cans of corn.
Attach 50lb weights to your vacuum cleaner, feather duster and washing basket and it’s a win-win.
LOL!
I’m very much hoping that there is still a way to have prom for seniors and some kind of proper finish to their school years!
A fairyland morning yesterday: 12 rabbits in the graveyard, and amanita muscaria ( red mushrooms, white spots) everywhere. I was tanding beneath a silver birch as a shaft of dawn sunlight reached us. It was shedding seeds and for minutes it was like being in a snow globe, albeit with golden glitter. No one was around so I pretended to be the statue of liberty and then the Eiffel tower. Back home and I had to negotiate all the bees I have inadvertently attracted through putting out sugar water for the birds. The birds are getting quite huffy about it and I’m not surprised. So, the Mon Guerlain body lotion is pretty powerful stuff which means I have to go big with perfume SL Fleurs de Oranges seems to stand a fair chance.
Robin, check your holly tree for flowers.? It is probably still too early but they are lovely .
I2 rabbits in the graveyard sounds like a book or poem title.
Sounds like a recipe!
Or a metal album..
???
I haven’t opened my Mon Guerlain lotion yet, glad to hear it is nicely scented. Thanks for sharing your beautiful walk! I love your posts.
Kanuka you are so good, I never would have remembered! No flowers yet but I’ve added to my Monday list in Evernote, now I will check every Monday, plus every Monday I will think of you and remember to go outside and pay more attention to what is around me. (Which I hope is never 12 rabbits, that would get me worrying what happened to the foxes? A few rabbits are to be expected but 12…)
No foxes here and the graveyard rabbits have no cats close by, nice grass and hundreds of cracked and broken concrete slabs ( the horizontal, bed part of the graves) to hide and shelter under ( and keep dry) …so they have a pretty good life compared to the hillside rabbits who tend to get a bit wet and sickly when it gets cold. Good luck with the holly…watch your nose when sniffing.
It’s home office Wednesday and perfume of the day is Prada L’Homme L’Eau.
Hope the working at home is going well Lucasai!
Wednesday! A day with no meetings at work. Well one, which I intend to skip. 140+ people invited to call in to a ‘brainstorming’ meeting, yeah that’ll be useful. I know I shouldn’t complain about work when folks are losing their jobs… but the work-tension seems to have ratcheted up along with the life-tension and I’m wishing for some time off to de-stress a bit.
Anyhoo! I did get word from the owner of Tigerlily Perfumery in SF that she will keep filling on-line orders. So folks, if you have the wherewithal, now’s a good time to support small businesses, it’s going to be a hard time for them for a while.
SOTD is Arquiste Nanban, yay, such good stuff!
I was thinking of doing a birch tar week at some point…I don’t think Nanban has it but that’s what I recall smelling.
Nanban is super strong on me, I bet it does have birch tar.
Yes, I’m reserving my spending for small businesses from hereon out.
I’m thinking of asking for a gift card from them for my birthday.
Thanks for letting us know about Tigerlily.
I’m wearing Jour d’Hermes Absolu and burning my Boy Smells Philia candle, which is a cozy orris-y light gourmand.
I just signed up to be part of the NYC Medical Reserve Corps since I’m working from home, but since our facility is full with a waiting list, referrals for me have been slow since hospitals aren’t really letting people hang out to wait for beds elsewhere right now. So, I actually have like 360+ sick hours banked on top of vacation time. I do feel very fortunate to have continued employment and a safety net through all of this. I do not take this for granted.
We ordered to-go from a local smoke joint last night and took the walk to go pick it up. It was soooo empty out last night and the extra large restaurant, which is usually packed, had no one in it except the cook and woman prepping the orders. It was kind of eerie. But the food was delish, especially the brisket with the charred ends. ?
Will go out shortly to feed my parking lot colony. That’s been a great excuse for getting out with human distancing, but getting kitty love ?
Oh hey, how are the kitty’s? Did they get to stay in the lot? Sorry if I missed it.
Yes! They’re still there. They haven’t rented the lot, but the ice cream manuf on the other side of the lot plopped 2 large storage containers in there so the gate has been open nearly daily for a couple of weeks. So, we’re good for the time being ! Thanks for asking ?
What will you do if called? I saw news reports of the floating hospital – pretty cool!
Yeah, that hospital ship! It’s coming soon!
Depends what kind of help they need, I suppose, and I’d only do it if they ensure adequate protective equipment. I’m no martyr. I haven’t worked on a hospital floor in forever, so that would be a slight challenge. We shall see…
I saw a clip on the news of a hospital where the nurses were sitting making masks out of supplies from the craft store. Ugh.
??! Thinking of you Elisa P.
Thank you, Jalapeno! I’m ok and tar away from patients. The hubs, though…
Everything has closed here but pharmacies and grocery stores, so I am reading a book a day and wondering what I will do when I’ve finished all the ones I had on my Kindle for my cancelled vacation. I may have to dig out my old (very old) CD of Grand Theft Auto to pass the time, or maybe Zork. Today I’m wearing Infusion d’Iris Absolue, which I like much more than the regular I d’I, I think this one is less rooty.
Hugs to everybody because we all could use one right now.
Hugs back to you and your dogs! I am re-reading books from my shelves….the benefit of believing that books spark joy. Bulgakov’s Heart of a Dog …gosh it makes me laugh
In the Great Purge of 2014, I eliminated 3/4 of my library since I was downsizing to a house that could hold only two 7-foot bookshelves. The books I kept I tend to reread on a regular basis anyway, so I need new ones. I will find Heart of a Dog, thanks!
That sounds like a good book, will have a look for it. I learned some Maori words on another blog today:
Kia kaha (stay strong)
He waka eke noa ( we’re all in the same boat)
Thinking of you across the Pacific!
You smell wonderful.
Hugs back to you too! My hoarding tendencies are paying off, I have a ton of unread books.
The PM closed the border to all non-citizens today, including Americans. He did promise that trucking routes would remain open so that we can get fresh vegetables from warmer climes and medicines from American producers. One of the questions from the press corps was what guarantees do we have that the President will not renege on that agreement. Scary thought, and sad for the worlds longest undefended border. I feel like I should stand on the shore of Lake Erie and wave to all of you, but I’m not close enough to Lake Erie anymore , so this is a virtual wave. I’m wearing Sampaquita.
I was thinking about a book you might like and I was wondering if you know The Summer Book by Tove Jansson? It’s not a laugh out loud book but it is short, simple, peaceful and ” heart-warming” ( in the best possible way ). About a girl and her granny on a tiny island, during summer. It is the kind of book that makes you feel better.
https://www.theguardian.com/books/2003/jul/12/fiction.alismith
Thanks, Kanuka, I will see if it is available on Kindle. I like that it was translated by someone who shares my surname (but he has only one “l” where I have 2).
I have that book and read it! Many years ago, though. I’m an avid Moomin fan and went to the Moomin Museum in Tampere, Finland, once – seconding the recommendation!
Sadly, my kids couldn’t get into the Moomins at all.
This pandemic is a huge wakeup call to the risks of globalization and not having the internal resources to feed and care for your people. I sincerely hope this will inspire countries to build up their home industries as a result, so they don’t have to depend on the good will of other countries.
Co-sign!
Waving back from the East Coast here!
Had a diy emergency too, not enough water pressure in the boiler which I discovered last night when I decided to have a bath. And of course with my limited skills I then introduced too much pressure and had to get the pliers and bleed one radiator (I always choose the bathroom one where everything is tiled because of water spills), what I really wanted was that bath and was irritated, then I paused for a few seconds and realized that this incident was really minor.
Wore Noir Exquis today which was annoying me so I changed to No 5 vintage EDT which smells like wild strawberry. I have EDT of various ages, some are soapy, others sandalwoody (my favorites), others musky.
No regular bread at the supermarket so it was the perfect excuse to get fruit loaf, life still has its pleasures.
Thinking of everyone who is having a difficult time.
enjoy that fruit loaf, Aurora.
We are low on bread at my house too. Now my daughter wants to bake! So that’s a happy silver lining for today.
Thank you Tiffanie, and there is nothing like home baked goods.
Wow Aurora, your fix it skills are miles ahead of mine! You smell wonderful and I bet the bread is delicious. Thinking of you too?
Oh, you know once you’ve seen it done it’s rather easy, I’m just an amateur. The bread is such a treat
I hope you ended up getting your bath after all.
I did, thank you Jalapeno with sandalwood soap
My Work From Home strategy du hour:
https://www.instagram.com/p/B94vXflhkXA/?igshid=1wuiyjvjivq57
That looks tasty!
It’s quite good with the right balance of Rose and Ginger.
That sounds delicious! It might be hard to ration out portions…
I broke off a piece, then sealed it again and moved the bar away from me. I don’t trust myself.
LOL! I know of some chocolate like that! ?
Lots of Courreges Empreinte today, I am on a chypre kick at the moment. Another nice walk with the boyfriend and telephone calls to friends and relatives. I am still busy
Another round of 4160 Tuesdays Truth Beauty Freedom Love. Lots of rain this morning. My yoga studio has started live streaming classes, it was quite entertaining trying to practice with the dog licking me, banging me in the face with her toy and climbing on my chest. I guess we will get used to each other.
Yes, it seems as if the pets think I’m a litter mate when I’m on the floor at their level. Fun, but not very conducive to good yoga form
down dog!
I’m doing yoga at home today with my friend’s Australian cattle dog. Such a calm soul, I hardly know she is here sometimes. She is very good at savasana, too.
A previous cat of mine felt that my pilates-at-home was for cat entertainment purposes. Surely if a hand was waving around, it was looking for a cat to pet? And push-ups! Well! That meant I wanted a cat to scoot in between my chest and the floor, of course.
I’ve been through that doing my hip exercises on the floor (rug) with cats around. When I do bridging, a cat always makes the challenge greater by sitting right on my chest as I’m trying to lift.
I thought of you, Cazaubon when I heard about the border. Will you try and make it to Montréal all the same?
We have to, my travel medical insurance policy expires on April 13th. I want to get home asap.
Best wishes for your travel plans! Be safe.
Thank you!!
Sounds like good motivation! Safe travels!
Thanks!
Sending good thoughts to you and your hubby for the journey back home!
When I was at my sister’s back in January, I tried to do a bit of yoga but her 2 cats kept on coming to investigate what I was doing. I gave up trying but they just cracked me up!?
Thank you! There was a lot of laughing on my part. Especially when I got a full ear wash during savasana.
It’s like goat yoga but with a doggie instead ?
SotD = CdG Avignon
hmmmm, I am feeling very om today. It’s my first day at home all day on a weekday in quite a while.
I’ve stumbled upon the music of Steve Gold, right now listening to Guide My Way (Om Asotoma). Music is a wonderful way to explore the word and the minds of other people.
Thanks to everyone for the meditation and happiness ideas.
Oh, Avignon is a great choice for right now! Waft this way please!
waft, waft, waft!
Thanks much! ?
I’ve got a couple more lotion recs for folks here, b/c I suspect that we have all been washing our hands a LOT more than usual. Today’s selections are both from Gold Bond: Gold Bond Ultimate Healing Hand Cream, and Gold Bond Ultimate Skin Therapy Cream Healing with Aloe. The first one absorbs almost instantly, so if that is important to you, grab that one. Very similar names, though, so read the labels carefully before purchase!
SOTD = back in vintage Diorissimo EdT. I’ve decided that this is a comfort scent right now.
I’ve used up my old tube of NMF + HA from The Ordinary and it’s working miracles. It’s even cheaper than Deciem’s hand cream.
Diorissimo is fantastico! you smell lovely.
I love those Gold Bond hand creams. They do work well and the smell is always nice. Agree it’s important to read the labels carefully. I bought one thinking it was another more than once.
That’s how I ended up with the two that I have. ? I was trying to get more of one…
Hi all, I am late to the party because my bad cold and cough have been interrupting sleep and I wound up sleeping in until almost 1 p.m. today. I’m too congested to taste or smell much so I sprayed on Zoologist T-Rex, thinking it might break through the fog. Glory be, it did! Although for some odd reason it’s reminding me of Vicks Vap-O-Rub. Didn’t know it had menthol in it! (Does it?) Good luck to all as you WFH, deal with anxiety, home-school, try to find new modes of activity, and so on.
I hope you feel better before too long. I am sorry you can’t visit your mother and that the phone is also a problem. Maybe you could send her a little ‘photo album’ of pictures of you and your cats, and some of those nice quilt shopping trips you did. The flowers were such a lovely thought. Hope your cat is still eating…go well.
Maybe that Zoologist will kick your cold to the curb?
Get well soon!
I wore Moon Bloom today. I couldn’t find the just-right scent. Moon Bloom is amazing but it just wasn’t hitting the spot. Trouble is I don’t know what would.
I have a job where I can’t work from home, so I suppose when we all get covid19 at the same time the powers that be will be forced to figure something out, lol. Oh well.
I hope you all stay healthy and connected!
Sending you vibes for health and courage!
Wearing some Prada infusion d’Iris absolue.
Have to try to install the VPN connection tonight on my home PC; turns out that the IT guru ‘missed’ a critical part of the instructions. I think he was supremely raked over the coals today! Ouch!
Should be joining the ranks of wfh tomorrow and will be blasting myself with something ‘extra’.
Good luck with your VPNing!
I’m all set up. It’s weird having work programs at home..
I worked from home for four months one time. You get used to it. My office was the kitchen table.
Keeping safe and fresh (hopefully) in the neroli, iris & vanilla potion that is CELINE Saint Germain Des Pres. Lovely stuff.
Scent in the mornings and evenings is back to lavender hand cream. I may dab a little bit of Jicky on at bedtime, since to me it goes okay with the lavender hand cream.
Although it wasn’t nice out yesterday, I ventured out long enough to cut a few of the early daffodils. I found a tall vase and put in a few ‘Ice Follies’ daffodils and the first one blooming that’s a ‘King Alfred’ type (yellow trumpet daffodil).
Since my folks are senior citizens and are not supposed to mingle, I’m the assigned shopper. Mom drove and then stayed in the car and read a book while I went into the local Aldi’s and found some of the food items on her list. We went to Walmart and did the same routine. Walmart was surprisingly well-stocked on some of the foods we were looking for, like eggs and dairy. It’s a smaller-sized Walmart, too. It was a fairly successful trip all around, considering.
Dad is excused from going out shopping for a while, since he is not only a senior citizen, but has chronic bronchitis. He’s totally fine with not going out to the grocery store and such.
He did some yard work today, though, which was good. I’ll join him with the yard work on the next nice day we get.