PSA: our next swapmeet will be on Saturday, 12 September and our next freebiemeet will be on Saturday, 26 September.
Meanwhile, it's Labor Day weekend in the US. We're marking the holiday with our same old open thread poll, and we're adding some extra sloth — I'll be back on Tuesday. Talk about anything you like — the fragrance you’re wearing today, the fragrance you are finding most relaxing lately, what you're planning to buy at a Labor Day sale (and feel free to share any coupons or deals), whatever.
Or, ask a question about fragrance, then see if anyone else has asked a question that you can answer…
Note: top image is Kelly's Lake House 9 [cropped] by Corey Butler at flickr; some rights reserved.
SotD = Assam of India
hiya, NST friends! I wore AofI yesterday too, it’s about as zesty/smoky as I ever manage to go. The citrus + tea is always a treat. I wore it on Thursday as well, maybe I’m about to pull a CM8 with Assam of India?
Time will tell.
In shopping news I found a five foot tall drascena at Home Depot yesterday. It was under $40 which is inexpensive for a large-ish house plant. Now it’s adding positive vibes to a corner of my dining room.
I like house plants but got out of the habit of cultivating them. There’s a spider plant baby growing roots in a cup of water on my kitchen window sill. Maybe I need some growing green-ness in my life, just didn’t realize it until now.
In the Before Times I would be at the beach or BBQing with my extended family, celebrating my sister’s birthday today. This year we’re gonna Zoom chat.
Hope everyone has a happy weekend. I’m gonna hunker down and try to do very little. It’s supposed to be 100+ degrees here today and tomorrow. Lots of Assam of India, 4711, Eau de Fleurs de Cedrat, and orange flower water, and rose water on standby.
Ooh, new plant! That’ll give you some lovely oxygen.
I hope you have a great weekend.
thank u, sistine, more oxygen is better.
I sold a ficus on craigslist that was getting too big for my home a few years back; I want to say I was asking $40 or so, for it. My husband thought I was nuts and that no one would want it. Went really quickly! Probably should have asked for more money. You got a bargain, too!
you made that ficus lover’s day!
It’s hard to find anything nice at that price. $100 or more is typical for a good sized plant.
Hope you are staying cool…102 at my house…we have central AC so I can’t complain overmuch. Enjoy your new plant!
yup! staying indoors as much as possible this weekend.
Our heat must have headed to you — we are finally cool, have all the windows open today and had to put on a long sleeved shirt.
I was just thinking what my house needs is a small tree, so I must be needing positive plant vibes too
Enjoy your hunker down and stay cool time!
ha! thanks for sharing.
I like long sleeves and open windows best.
The heat is not surprising for September (and October) in this part of the US. We had a mild-ish summer, so I guess it’s finally our turn to sweat. Monday’s forecast for my neighborhood is 15 degrees cooler, so there’s relief in sight.
Ooh! Lucky you for having a long weekend. Hope everyone in the US can enjoy it properly with good perfume, yummy food and chilled wine.
I have a growing urge of buying a new perfume, it’s been a while since I could strike out something from my wishlist. I haven’t gotten my dream citrus but since the weather is already closer to fall I guess that quest will wait until next year.
Today I’m in Carner Barcelona D600, that’s another bottle that will soon get empty. I like it but I don’t think I will go for a backup bottle. There are other scents I’d like to explore.
It’s nice to try something new rather than repurchasing. Even if you really like a scent, it can get a little boring. I hope you find a good one. I just bought Splendiris. It did’t wow me the first time that I tried it but now I think it’s lovely.
I agree, Petunia. I rarely repurchase. It has to be something I really love added with the fear if might get discontinued.
Hi lilllyjo! 😊
I think Tauer Phi is one of those perfumes I’d like to have again.
The longer my perfumistahood, the more anxiety I seem to get about discontinuations. Too many loves disappearing from shelves forever.
I have a bottle of Splendiris 😊 I’ m glad you enjoy it.
I know that you do! Mine is stuck in transit. Ugh…worst thing for a perfume to be sitting in the back of a tractor trailer.
Wishing you a prompt reunion with your new scent.
Pacifica Mediterranean Fig has been in my regular rotation this summer. I just looked online to purchase. Ack!!! Has it been discontinued?? I see a few roller balls out there and a bottle on ebay for more than $100! 😢
(Pacifica has 20% off and free shipping over $50 this weekend)
Oh, I’m sorry! I hope you find some somewhere for a reasonable price!
Thanks! I might just get a rollerball off eBay, not my ideal but better than nothing!
Emailed Pacifica Customer Care. Confirmed, Mediterranean fig has been discontinued. Funny, I would’ve thought that one was a best seller. Interesting how certain products are discontinued and others last so long.
Or, others take longer to sell out the initial production run!
Pacifica does seem to have really changed their business model over the last 5 years or so.
They have really changed their product focus and discontinued all candles and some of the long time fragrance items.Several of my favorites were gone by the time I knew what was being discontinued.It is not the company I used to know.
Nightingale, if you are in the US and are interested I have a bottle of Mediterranean Fig which is 50% full and the body lotion which I used it only twice. I barely reach for the perfume these days. My email: monica67 at aol dot com
I am most often reminded of the kindness of strangers when reading NST. Thank you! Will email you 💗
I’m trying Ivy Blanc from Dedcool today. I really like it, but it’s a bit too close to Andree Putman’s L’Original for me to investigate after this sample, since I already have a bottle of L’Original.
I hope everyone has a relaxing and happy weekend.
I miss the AP, so I should try the Dedcool!
You have a great weekend too sistine.
No scent yet today, going thru next round of downsizing on my fragrances so need skin real estate for testing.
PSA rogue perfumery shop on Etsy is running 15% off, code BASENOTES. Also a bunch of older bottles on sale
Thanks for the code, Clarissa!
Wearing Micallef Gaiac, an old favorite. One of the few bottles I’ve rebought when I emptied it. No sloth here – helping sons move into back into their house which had so much water damage way back in November that they had to completely move out.
What a wonderful mother! In so many ways. You deserve a new perfume!
Springpansy, any suggestions for a shampoo fragrance?
You might be the queen, here.😊
Teo Cabanel Meloe smells like nice shampoo, to me. In a very good way
Thank you, pixel. Can’t wait to try!
😃 I think Lutens Nuit de Cellophane was the one I mentioned earlier. Also Chanel Beige. Ralph Lauren had one – maybe Ralph? Nanadebary Green reminds me of Herbal Essences. I’m sure there are more! Pixel’s suggestion is good, too.
Thanks! My better half told me how fresh and clean I smell after my morning kiss.
Skincare.🙄
Yep. Mr SP particularly likes the smell of one of my moisturizers…
In L’Artisan Safran Troublant. Few more sprays and I will thunk the full bottle.
Beautiful end of summer day. Sunny, breezy, warm and low humidity. I ran some errands in the morning and I am almost on my way out to get my flu shot and do some food shopping. I will stay home for the rest of the holiday weekend cooking, baking and relaxing.
I have been thinking for the last couple of days to buy a full bottle of Passage D’ Enfer, but I wonder if it is a safe blind buy. Any suggestions?
Have a safe and happy weekend, everyone! 🌞
I got my flu shot a couple of days ago. My arm is still sore! Hope you have a pleasant weekend 🌞
Thank you, Lillyjo!🌻.
I hope your working weekend is not so hectic!
The flu shot last year made me feel very weak for days. I hope not to have the same side effect this year🤞.
Sorry, I haven’t tried that one but you smell great! Congrats on thunking your bottle!
Thank you, Petunia!
You smell delicious!
Thank you, Lucasai! You also smell amazing in D600!
If you like incense and lily, Passage d’Enfer is a wonderful choice.
Good to know! Thank you, Cazaubon!
Hi PL67!
I think Passage would be a relatively safe blind buy. If I remember correctly it’s a fairly transparent incense and flowers composition (Olivia Giacobetti style). I have been thinking of getting a bottle myself but I don’t really want the whole thing. If you get it and you want to split it I think you’d have some takers (myself included 😉).
Have a lovely weekend!
Thank you, Adanst! If I get it, it will definitely show up in the next splitmeet 😉 I don’t need such a big bottle!
Passage D’ Enfer smelled hellish on me. Usually L’Artisans are at worst innocuous – that one introduced me to the term “scrubber”. Not people’s usual reaction, though, it would seem.
That’s why I am carefully thinking about it. I have come to a point in my perfumista life where I don’t want to keep risking on blind buys so often. I may order a sample before making a final decision.
I need to retry PdE because I tried it very early in my perfumista days, and it didn’t really do anything for me then. I am in the camp of trying a sample before springing for a bottle.
I will definitely get a sample. The reviews are very mixed in the perfume blogs. Thanks for letting me know it didn’t move you when you tried it.
I love Passage D’Enfer. I think getting a sample is a good idea, but don’t be surprised if you end up getting a bottle.
Thank you, Sistine! Looking forward to trying it very soon!
That is what happened to me! Sample and then a bottle!
I love it also and always have a bub.
Definitely sample Passage D’Enfer! Yes, it is a transparent incense and lily perfume, but I also get a noticeable “just sharpened #2 pencil” note in there sometimes. If cedar is off-putting for you, it could be a deal breaker.
I did not think about the cedar note! I usually have issues with it. The blind buy of a full bottle is not an option anymore. Thanks for your advice!
Today I’m wearing L de Lolita Lempicka, for no reason at all except that I saw it when I opened the perfume cabinet. (That sounds like I have a special, hand-built and elegant repository for my perfume bottles, which couldn’t be further from the truth – it’s two co-opted shelves in my hallway closet).
I gleefully admit to having made several blind buys yesterday from Fragrancenet. I was very sad to see that they no longer sell the Tam Dao travel spray (should have gotten it earlier), because that’s been on my “to try” list forever, but I nonetheless managed to rack up a nice order of bargain basement blind buys. When it comes to perfume, I am a unrepentant optimist.
Oohh.. what did you get?
A mini of Lou Lou, by Cacharel, Givenchy Dahlia Divin le Nectar travel spray, Dali Laguna mini, Rihanna Rebelle, Encre Noire a l’Extreme, and a travel spray of Tiziana Terenzi Ecstasy.
niiiiiiiice buys
my perfume cupboard is the lower half of my hallway closet, great for easy access!
that’s my cupboard too Tiffanie although I always have an eye out for a nice slim wooden one I can put in the bedroom and not share with pillowcases and random sheets
I spent some time on Fragrancenet myself today! Haven’t pulled the trigger on anything yet, but it’s fun to browse. I am also an unrepentant perfume optimist! I think it’s because I can usually find something to like about a fragrance I actually buy after reading enough about it.
For me, it’s the anticipation. My Holy Grail could be in that box!
Let us know on the Lou Lou – I love the vintage and wonder about the current. I got Rebelle at FragNet clearance, and this gourmand lover was very happy with it. Should say I signed out out this very day from FragNet with some items unbought. I have a coupon good until the end of the year, but a travel wedding in two weeks, so I tightened my belt. I think I will find enough to spritz even so.
Oh, that bodes well for the Rebelle. I had heard good things about its coffee and cocoa notes, and I do love gourmands.
One of the things I love about Now Smell This, besides all the wonderful participants, are the community projects. I usually do not take enough time to slow down and breath and think about it. We have cardamom as a note for next week and my initial reaction was that I did not have anything in my fragrance collection that has this note. I was wrong. If you have the original Bvlgari Omnia, Lush Cardamom and Coffee, Cartier Declaration in any iteration, Olympic Orchids Gujarat or NV Trayee, you are good to go! Chime in with any less obvious cardamom containing fragrances. Have a lovely weekend!
I still have to check if I have anything with cardamom.
I think Jungle l’Elephant has cardamom in it.
I love cardamom. Another suggestion is Black Jade by Lubin. A spicy cardamom rose.
You introduced to Black Jade – it’s very nice
cardamom always makes me think of Voyage d’Hermes
That one is on my radar.
4711 Mandarine & Cardamom!
That’s my scent for Friday,
Jo Malone Mimosa & Cardamom.
YUM.
Here’s the list I made from looking at Fragrantica and Luckyscent. I only included perfumes I have in some form or another, so this isn’t a comprehensive list. The starred ones are those I deemed as working well in the hot weather we’re supposed to have this week. My favorite summer perfume that noticeably features cardamom is Hermes Un Jardin Apres la Mousson.
Lush Cardamom Coffee
Masque Milano Mandala
Eris Night Flower
*Neela Vermiere Mohur, Trayee, and Bombay Bling
Memo African Leather
*Ormonde Jayne Woman
Marni
Amouage Opus I
*House of Cherry Bomb Cardamom Rose
Rebel & Mercury Vanilla & Cardamom Body Oul
Smell Bent One
*Aftelier Cologne Bergamote Soleil
Goldfield and Banks Desert Rosewood
Jorum Studio Medullary-Ray
Mona di Orio Nuit Noire
Pekji Ruh
Perris Monte Carlo Ylang Ylang Nosy Be
By Kilian Back to Black
*CdG Luxe Champaca EDT
*Fils de Dieu
MdO Cuir
*Eau Duelle
Indochine
Tauer Incense Rose
*Un Jardin Apres la Mousson
Jaisalmer
*Juniper Sling
Lyric
*Pulp
Masque Milano Tango
CdG White
*Parfums MDCI Vepres Sicilianes
Jacamo #8
Penhaligon’s Malabah
Wonderful list! I’m a fan of Un Jardin Apres La Mousson too, it’s my favorite of the Jardins, though I also love Sur Le Nil and Sur La Lagune.
Mousson is my favorite in the series too followed closely by Mediterranee.
Thanks for the list. I have next week covered.
Agree, thank you for the list! Still only have Un Jardin Apres la Mousson, but might have a sample of Back to Black floating around here somewhere, so can participate a little bit.
Wow! IMPRESSIVE list. You have a few of mine already included.
I have a few off the top of my head (I am watering outdoor plants & am taking a break):for this week:
Lancôme Santal Kardamom
Memo Tamarindo
L’Artisan Aedes de Venestas.
I am missing one.
Thank you for a more comprehensive list! I have Eris Night Flower, so I have enough fumes for a 5 day cardamom palooza!
Thanks for doing my homework 👍
It is one of my favorite notes too that I didn’t realize I love. I am preparing a list.
Oops I went on Basenotes and got lost in a black hole of cardamom perfumes. Here’s more. Again, I only listed out those in my collection in some shape or form (sample, decant, bottle):
Penhaligon’s Amaranthine
*Bond No. 9 Brooklyn
Aedes Oeillet Bengale and Copal Azur
Sylvaine Delacourte Olyssia and Vangelis
*Tom Ford Eau de Soleil Blanc and Soleil Blanc
DSH for Scent Trunk December 2019
L’Artisan Mont de Narcisse, Nuit de Tubereuse
*January Scent Project Selperniku
Carner Barcelona Sweet William
*Arielle Shoshana Saturday and Sunday
*Boucheron Neroli d’Ispahan
Note di Profumum Luce
Amouage Journey Woman, Lyric Woman, and Memoir Woman
Providence Perfume Co. Samarinda
Olympic Orchids Cafe V, Dev 2, Bay Rum, and Gujarat
Miller Harris La Fumee
Sonoma Scent Studio Sienna Musk
Laura Mercier Nuits Enchantees
Parfumerie Generale Cuir d’Iris
*Guerlain Cologne du 68
*Bois 1920 Sutra Ylang
*The Different Company Jasmin de Nuit
Paul & Joe Bleu
Shiseido/Serge Lutens Feminite du Bois
Caron Parfum Sacre
Gres Cabochard
Biehl Parfumkunstwerke PC02
Ava Luxe Bois de Figue, Cafe Noir, and Bohemian Rose
Poesie Madar has a cardamom note.
SOTD: FM UFdCassie. Always good.
I have a question for this perfume community: Arquiste Ella.
Takeonethingoff (ClaireV on Basenotes) has a very tempting review of Ella on her blog. I like chypres and old school “ugly” perfumes like Theo Fennell, so this should be right up my alley. HOWEVER, some reviewers mention Aromatics Elixir, which has never worked for me, perhaps because of the Lauder base which makes anything by the Estee Lauder company unwearable for me. I am also hugely sensitive to Iso E super and haven’t tried anything by this line, so do not know how heavyhanded they are with the aromachemicals. If anyone can chime in, it would be hugely appreciated.
Ella is really pretty. I almost bought it at one point. I could be way off base but, IIRC, it had more of a Halston vibe. Not that they smelled alike. I think Ella was supposed to be like a vintage 80’s perfume? They were similar in that way. Perhaps someone with more experience with Ella could chime in?
We are scent twins today! Ella did not remind me of AT at all. Don’t know about the ISOE, the only fragrances where I can kind of pick it out are the Ormonde Jaynes. Do try before you try though.
That is AE
Ella reminds me more of FM Superstious. I got no AE whatsoever.
Me either… it’s more of a sweetish floral amber than a chypre from I remember.
what I remember…
Yes to this. I agree.
I have a decant of Ella, and agree with the other folks; it’s nothing like AE to me, and doesn’t resemble any 80’s bombshell fragrances either. Definitely a floral, very feminine, but well blended enough that no one flower stands out.
Ella always makes me think of Elisa P. She wore it a lot. I hope she’s doing okay.
Second that Nancy. I also hope she is well.
https://nstperfume.com/2016/09/29/arquiste-ella-fragrance-review/
I have a decant that I haven’t spent much time with, but like everyone else here, I don’t see the AE resemblance. I mostly haven’t really tried it because it’s too hot and chypres never really call me. To me this falls more into the “proper perfume” category. Not girly, not flirty, but serious/elegant, and none of those department store aromachemicals. That might just be what I classify chypres as.
Thank you so much for everyone’s input!
Amyitis,
Yes have a FB of Ella. I wear it more in the warmer weather idkw! It is not like AE ti me at all.
It is lovely floral and even ‘wearable to a wedding worthy’.
I think it’s the curupita that makes it unusual. I really enjoy it.
I’ll happily share some if you are interested. Hit me up with your email: thehippydolphin in the land of geeeee male.
Chiming in on Ella. Agree with others that I do not even remotely smell an overlap with AE. I personally get a little overlap with ELDO’s Jasmin et Cigarette. I really like the perfume, but have a vague memory that the ambergris note bugged Pixel.
I am wearing a sample of Back Bay by Bluehill fragrances. A pretty green floral by a boutique perfumer, Sandy Carr. She based this fragrance on the smells in Boston’s Back Bay area. Lovely.
Hi Petunia! Hope you are enjoying the long weekend!🌹
Thanks lillyjo! I hope you have the long weekend as well. I have to go into work on the holiday.
Oh me too! I’m working through Monday.
Back Bay faded and I’m in a sampling mood today. I ordered a few Initio samples due to the hype train. Trying Psychedelic Love and not liking it at all. Not going on the buy list. It smells like a pink antacid with heliotrope to me.
Pink antacid 😝
Finished picking up the house this morning in Sycomore edt. It looks like I will be finishing up a candle today. I am getting sick of the Mahogany Teakwood at this point. Then I can work on finishing that Heirloom Apple. Commando at the moment but I think I might pull out some vintage BaV.
You smell great. I have a couple samples of Sycomore EDT randomly mixed in my decanting supplied that I am going to break out soon.
I have no idea what the edp smells like. It seems like the transmission from edt to edp with the Les Exclusifs line was very hit or miss.
Happy weekend everyone!
I’m in Myrrhe Eglantine from a new travel spray. Hajusuuri gets an enabler pin cuz she shared the details of Shop in France, which is where I got it from via evil bay. This is my favorite from Hermessence along with Osmanthe Yunnan
you smell beautiful! I adore ME.
I’ve also had good luck with Shop in France.
Same here. I purchased a wonderful set of Divine samples through Shop in France.
I love OY.
Those travel sprays are so nice! Suzan is a pleasure to work with, and you might get on her mailing list if you’re not already. Her emails showing what is available sure are fun to look at. 👀
Hi Nancyleadros,
I used to get Suzan’s emails, is there a way to get in touch with her?
Thanks!
http://www.ebaystores.com/shopfranceinc
Sign up info in the top right corner of her store. 😊
Thank you for enabling!
I love drooling over her emails!
Me too! I like to run down each of the columns and “pick one thing”.
I’m on the list – hopefully!
Just wanted to chime in that Suzan is amazing and ShopFrance is a great place to buy from.
Roger that ShopFrance; lemming over and out (of his cage)
Woo hoo! She tries and does her best. When I read her emails, I always think of someone talking a mile a minute on something she loves.
I might have broken my big toe when I tripped over the edge of a rug on my way into the bathroom last night! I can move it but just barely and it’s all swollen and purple. What a stupid freak accident. I limped down the stairs this morning and fed cats plus had coffee and breakfast but it just hurts like hell. I’ve iced it awhile. I just took my second dose of Advil for the morning. Wearing Musc Ravageur for comfort and distraction while I sit up in bed with three cats close by. I got a birthday check for a new small grill and ordered one on Amazon (Weber 18-inch), and was hoping to have a friend over for some Labor Day grilled shishkabobs. Might have to rescind my invitation if this keeps up (or go to an Urgent Care place). I guess I’ll use my time in bed to research cardamom perfumes!
ow ow ow ow ow! very sorry about that big ouch.
I smashed my third toe against an underwater rock while swimming in the ocean a few summers ago. I heard the bones crack through the water so it was def broken.
I called my insurance company’s nurseline and was told if the big toe hurts without getting better in a day or so then probably best to go to the doctor. If it’s a little toe and it’s not misshapen then just tape it up, ice it up, and rest up.
Oh ow to have heard it crack, eek! I’ve had small toes broken in the past but this is way worse.
Ice and Advil is good to do. And elevate. Hope it’s not broken just bruised.
If it does not get better really soon do consult a doctor; first toes are essential for normal foot function.
I think I will, thanks. It’s astounding how much this one little thing affects my ability to walk (or not!).
I hope you’ll have it checked & report back – here’s hope it heals perfectly!
Ouch, so sorry! Wishing you a speedy recovery.
Owie! Yeah, my vote is to get an X-ray to see what’s up. I’m sorry this happened, especially on a holiday weekend! 😡
Ouch! Yes do go get it checked. I stubbornly didn’t after banging up a middle toe. It healed, but now one joint won’t bend. Not crucial for function, it seems, but silly of me not to have had it looked at.
Oh no! So sorry! I hope is not broken and you feel better soon!
I am very sorry about your toe.
The big toe is critical and probably should be checked to make sure it heals right. Big hugs.
I’m so sorry about your toe! I cannot imagine the pain of breaking the big toe. I broke my little toe last summer (my first broken bone), and that hurt so bad. I hope you can have some pain relief.
So sorry Calypso! Do check in tomorrow and tell us if it’s better.
I hope you will feel better quickly and that it’s bruised rather than broken!
So sorry about this. Rather have it checked.
Ouch – I hope the cats are taking good care of you! Wishing you a speedy recovery.
Oh man
Feel better soon.
Ouch that hurts! I’d go have it looked at. I dislocated my middle toe the day before my dad’s funeral and it ended up needing 2 surgeries to fix because I didn’t want to mess with it at the time. Be careful hope you get some relief soon!
Ouch! Sounds like your body is telling you to have it checked out.
So sorry, Calypso!
Freak accidents happen. Cats are awesome and perfume is comfort food.
Please find out about imaging while you are there and get a copy of you can, even if they say you have electronic records.
I say have your friend over after or before and make it simple. A friend understands and wants to help 💕
Feel better!
Oh No Calypso! I hope it isn’t broken- do go get it checked out.
I hope you feel better tomorrow.
(But it May take another few days to be honest.)
Watch out for Bumping!!
PSA that Molten Brown has a sale going on.
In Fiori di Capri for flying. Just landed in Detroit. Easy so far. Other than having to spring for a car to airport instead of subway. Husband forgot to refill prescription and had to wait for pharmacy to open.
Will be rainy and cool our whole time in Wisconsin. Hey, better than being in CA. I remember those 110+ days and don’t miss them. After the heat and humidity in NYC, I’m okay with cooler weather.
I wore that scent one day this past week for the zest part of the CP. what are you up to in Michigan?
We are actually in Wisconsin, but we can see the UP.
Fiori di Capri is so beautiful! I’ve been using a sample of it and am seriously considering a birthday bottle of the perfume.
I fell in love off a sample, so bought a bottle on eBay. And promptly bought a second one once I realized how much I liked it. And I do get compliments. There are scents I love, and then there are ones that just feel like they fit me like a soft glove….Fiori is one of those.
Was just looking it up. There is a pure parfum, and an edp. Which have you tried? They both sound gorgeous!
EdP. Haven’t tried the parfum. I have tried the solid, but didn’t care for it as much.
Enabler pin goes to you LizzieB!
I wear it proudly! They had some items that looked interesting, but I’m not allowed.
SOTD OJ Oris Noir. It’s cozy but not TOO too much. We’re getting a little break from the heat today, which is supposed to return tomorrow. Maybe I’ll “celebrate” with an extra long walk.
Mr. Spicebomb will be incommunicado from 4pm onwards today for highly important (!) fantasy football drafts. I think I’ll catch up on some movies on Netflix/Amazon/Hulu/whatever streaming service we have at the moment (who can keep up?!). Feel free to make recommendations!
Lately I’m watching Umbrella Academy on NetFlix, Forever on Amazon. Very different moods.
Early on in Lockdown I was hooked on a Korean series, Crash Landing On You. It’s nice, long 1.5 hr episodes.
Oh my gosh, my hubs is doing that, too. He treats it like it’s his job. I’m happy he’s busy with it though, and it fits his detail-oriented personality. 😂
It is good for both of our mental health that Mr. S. has sports back again. 🤣
Catastrophe or Fleabag which you may have already watched. I have 2 episodes of Fleabag yet but don’t want it to end so I am drinking sparkling wine instead.
2 episodes of Fleabag left that is
Fleabag is great. Don’t worry about watching all the episodes. I immediately went back and started from the beginning. Now it on my “what to turn on when nothing appeals” list (along with Serenity, the Firefly movie, and the Colin Firth miniseries version of Pride and Prejudice). Past, present or future, you see? That woman Phoebe, is so amazingly talented.
I also rewatch Serenity and various Firefly episodes.
She really is amazing…such talent.😍
LizzieB! I like the Jayne as Hero of the Mud moon episode, and also the ones with Christina Hendricks – “Yolanda?!?” Don’t know why that series got canceled.
This list of “stuff to watch when there’s nothing on” convinces me that I really must watch Fleabag! We share some tastes in common! I know I’m terribly behind on popular culture, and that one seems to be on everyone’s to-watch list.
Not a movie, but Chef’s Table has some new episodes about barbecue, and so far they are great! I love that whole series.
I’ve been tempted by that one. I like watching food shows, even though I’m fairly boring and predictable with 95% of my meals.
I just saw a recommendation for The Detectorists on Prime. Haven’t seen it but looks like it’s got good reviews.
I adored Detectorists. I do know people who hated it though.
I LOVE the Detectorists. It has had my whole family in tears from laughing.
Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries are something I always recommend. They’re amazing, and the costumes…Muh! Chef’s kiss.
For comfort, we’ve been watching Golden Girls, Brooklyn 99, and West Wing from the beginning.
For something new, I’m also trying the docuseries “Unwell” on netflix – only watched the first one.
You know, I never watched West Wing! I wonder, would it seem too optimistic in today’s cynical world?
I watched an episode recently — it was enjoyable but quaint! It was also one of the first “walk and talk” shows, so at the time it seemed very hip. Now that just seems normal.
I recently watched the first two episodes. I described it to my husband as political soft porn. . . !
Seabiscuit is on Netflix now and being highly promoted, we rewatched it the other night and I had forgotten lots of it. It’s a really good story and the acting is great. Elizabeth Banks’ clothes from the 20s and 30s are stunning, too.
Oh Seabiscuit! That was well done, the period costumes, the sincerity of it. Simpler times….
Sampling Vanille De Tahiti by Perris Monte Carlo today. Quite floral in the opening…will see how it wears and pour over the Fragrantica reviews. :)🍿100 degrees here in San Diego today.🔥Hope everyone is staying cool.
Yowza, that is hot for SD!
High of 112 here lol. This is a long summer. Time to call the Schwans ice cream guy..if he hasn’t melted yet along with all the ice cream lol.
I have not had Schwans ice cream. I am googling and want to try it all!
Looking forward to your report. Sorry about your heat wave though! I’m glad to be missing it as we have no AC in our San Diego house.
It is very nice but on the low sillage side and I sprayed plenty.
Tropical flowers and vanilla. We have AC so I can’t complain overmuch. 
Happy Labor Day weekend American friends.
Went to a parapharmacie today (basically a French drugstore) and tested a whole lot of Roger & Gallet newish scents and some older ones. Among the older scents was Feuille de Figuier which I found pretty and cooling (Fleur de Figuier has cumin so I never wanted that one although it’s popular I think). Valreas was so beautiful and historical, it wasn’t my first visit but we did more exploring this time. Had drinks in front of the XVII century castle which doubles as city hall.
I love European pharmacies!! We have some in my town that try to replicate them, but still not the same. Glad you are enjoying your trip!
It’s true that one can find so many goodies in pharmacies, Yasmina, and at reasonable prices too. Glad they are trying to duplicate them where you live.
Yay for Roger & Gallet and drinks in front of a castle/city hall!
Same, that all sounds so lovely Aurora!
Thank you Robin, it feels especially nice to have escaped this year. It’s a lovely region, and steeped in history, a bit like what I visited of Italy.
R&G has been busy releasing many new fragrances, they don’t have a vanilla yet but maybe they will soon😉
Dare to dream!
That sounds like a lovely day. I hope the rest of your weekend is that nice!
Thank you Sistine, it’s a great vacation so far, I escaped the quarantine on arrival in France but will have to follow the rules when returning to the UK where I live.
Happy Labor Day Weekend American friends!
Happy Birthday Gail!🌹
La vie este belle…mere mls away from thunking…this thing just don’t wanna end!!!Lol!
Satisfying day of making my favorite “cheesecake”,and sorting out the cutlery drawers for things to be donated/sold/thrown away.Three generations of tableware,it’s become crazy!I can host a party for about 100 people without having to source Any.One.Thing.
Sending love and light,cause OMG,we need both.
XO
Hello Johanob! Nice to hear from you. Love and light to you as well!
🌞🌹
Happy weekend, dear heart! I know exactly what you mean about tableware and flatware. I have a lot of it too! Hugs to you. 🤗
🤗🤗And to you!
Thank you for the birthday wishes!
I had a great day outside on the golf course. My feet are killing me and I have a blister but it was spent with my favorite people!
Wonderful,as long as you had a blast.✌🏻🌞🌹
I have inherited 5 full tea sets. None of them are getting used. I feel like we should combine forces (and dishes!) and host the world’s largest perfumista tea party.
Splendid idea.And then the theme is “wear a tea-perfume”,and wear something that is NOT resembling a teabag…haha!
I would happily join that party!
I’m in Queenstown with my mother for the weekend. Queenstown is one of New Zealand’s main tourist destinations, but I always think of it as a small town we came to for summer holidays when I was a child. It’s huge for skiing, not something I’ve ever tried, so this is the first time I’ve been here outside of summer. The snow on the hills is so beautiful, but it’s cold this morning!
Perfume free as yet, but probably Neroli Outrenoir for the drive back.
I tried a couple of the Loius Vuitton range at a Louis Vuitton boutique yesterday – the perfumes didn’t grab me, but I did reflect that Queenstown had moved on from the 1960s
LV is pretty posh.
Playing in the big leagues now.
Queenstown sounds wonderful, glad you have childhood memories there, it makes it more special.
Happy Saturday everyone! I’m in Rose Magnetic layered under L’ambre Des Merveilles, and I smell wonderful. 🌹 Rather tempted to get a travel spray of the rose, but I’ll be good and experiment with other roses from the stash.
Thrilling day here, folks: curbside grocery pickup, laundry and made hamburger + hot dog buns for the cookout.
I’ve been drinking my morning tea with a pinch of cardamom, as Robin has mentioned, and it is indeed lovely. That particular spice bottle now lives at the tea station on the counter. 😊
Let us know if other rose perfumes play well with L’ambre des Merveilles!
I will report back! 😊
Super busy yesterday, I wore Nuit Étoilée edp and found it even more wonderful than I remembered. Today is Serge Lutens Des Clous pour une Pelure, an orange clove scent.
It’s a glorious labour day weekend here in Canada, lovely temps in the low 20’s (70’s in Fahrenheit). So happy to be out of the oppressive heat and humidity of summer.
And I am so happy the heat and summer is almost back!!Happy weekend T!xo
Nuit Étoilée works well as a summer spritzer from the fridge.
I’m glad your weather has improved! It sounded dreadful.
It was pretty dire! So many syrupy hot days of 40+. Ugh.
I bet you smell wonderful, I’m not familiar with that Lutens but orange and cloves, oh my.
PSA: Beautyhabit fragrance sale 20% off code is scent20, Indiescents 20% off code is summer20.
Thanks cazaubon!
Anyone has had a chance to try GuerlainIris Torefere?
Had a quick sniff of someone else’s sample – oh dear, it is nice. Do I need another iris, or another pricey Guerlain? No, and no – but.
Yes, never enough IRIS! 😊
😊👍
No, but I have a bottle coming to me at some point next week with the BG Gift Card event.
Twins!
I smelled Iris Torrefié here in Montréal and then ordered from BG with the gift card event. I like it, although some have complained about longevity. It is subtle but lasts fine on me.
Hello! Happy three-day weekend to us in the U.S.
I still haven’t really been wearing perfume lately. If I even think about wearing perfume, Dad starts coughing. :0 He’s been coughing a fair amount, but we’re pretty sure it’s just his allergy/chronic bronchitis cough. Our allergies were bad through this hot, rainy summer, and now it’s hayfever season. Ugh!
However, it was a nice day today, and I planted the lilies I got this spring and had had in pots through the summer. Apparently they like moist, acid soil, so they should be thrilled with their new location. I’ll be getting more lilies, and many other sorts of bulbs, in about a month, but I feel like I got a little bit accomplished today, anyway.
Good job! I don’t know if you have squirrels or chipmunks nearby, but they do love to feast on lily bulbs (and some others, not narcissus) in the ground. You probably know this, but one way to protect the bulbs is to lay chicken wire over the top of the planting area and cover with mulch. It stops them digging. Most of the time. What other bulbs are you planning to plant? I need to place an order soon.
Hi!
I put hardware cloth around the areas where I planted the lilies, although that won’t stop the rabbits from digging under the wire mesh or stop the squirrels from coming in from the top.
I got way carried away after reading the Old House Gardens catalog, and ordered a lot. Only one sort of crocus this time, ‘Blue Pearl,’ but I have many of the other kinds they offer, and snow crocus and Dutch crocus from long before I got into ordering from OHG. Crocuses are also very popular with rodents and rabbits, as you know.
I ordered nearly all of the tulips(!), and a good number of various kinds of hyacinths. I ordered a few things in the narcissus family, mostly jonquils. I think that hits the highlights.
I’ve had success putting sharp gravel over my bulbs to keep squirrels out of them, but then you must live with gravel in your flower beds.
Thanks for the idea. I think I’d just end up cutting my own hands up.
I’ll figure out other ways. 
Not-so-sharp gravel as mulch may help in other ways.
Good job! I don’t know if you have squirrels or chipmunks nearby, but they do love to feast on lily bulbs (and some others, not narcissus) in the ground. You probably know this, but one way to protect the bulbs is to lay chicken wire over the top of the planting area and cover with mulch. It stops them digging. Most of the time. What other bulbs are you planning to plant? I need to place an order soon.
Sunday I transplanted a lot of plants, mostly from pot to pot. I used up a good-sized bag of potting mix and ended up extremely dirty. Dad wanted me to help him with the extension cords for the weed whacker, and I suspect that’s how I ended up with machine grease streaks on me and my T-shirt. At least the big streak of oil washed off of my leg, though the streaks on my T-shirt didn’t come totally clean. Oh, well. I purposely wore old clothes both days of my working-with-plants weekend.
Monday it had already gotten hot by the time I went outside, so I just watered the potted plants that looked dry, and rewrote fading labels. Squirrels(?) had dug holes in the soil in the pots, especially the pots in which I’d transplanted plants and the soil was disturbed anyway. They didn’t eat the herbs and scented geraniums in those pots, though.
Saturday, Sunday and Monday I told Mom that I wasn’t interested in going shopping on Labor Day weekend. I’ll have a lot of shopping to catch up on today. I think that was the first time in a few months that I’d been home three days in a row. Probably the last time I stayed home that much was in February, when I had the flu and didn’t want to give it to other people. That strikes me as kind of ironic now…
I enjoyed the nice weather here. I feel for those of you who are currently in a heat wave and/or in places where there are fires.
Oh
my
word
it is hot here. 103. Supposed to be even hotter tomorrow. The air conditioning is barely keeping up. I think I may just nap on the slate floor.
SOTD (moment?) is Atelier Pacific Lime, that’s about all I can handle.
Love that one!
I hope you can get comfortable!
Oh my, that is hot! Hope the a/c will keep up for you. I’m also a day late though, so even more, hope it cooled down.
No such luck, it hit 113 yesterday. It is supposed to be a little cooler today, but considering it was 86 degrees outside at 7:30 am, I kinda doubt it.
And then we have a red flag warning (for risky fire weather) starting tomorrow! Gah.
Pixel, it was 103 here by the water. Power was out near me but we kept ours. Today supposed to be cooler. I kept on one light downstairs and one upstairs, left tv off and used my iPad. Held off on laundry till later today,
Stay safe.
Wow. No other words.
I.Feel.Your.Pain!!!!!!!!!! 🌞☀️🔥🌕🔆🔅⚠️
Happy Labor Day Weekend Everyone! Hope everyone is staying safe. I plan on just relaxing for this 3-day weekend!
My SOTD is Vanilla Vetiver by Noteology. This has vanilla, sandlewood, vetiver, and cade in it and it is absolutely divine. I received a sample of this and may have to get a FB. Never heard of the perfume house Noteology, but will have to check them out. Anyone else heard of them or have worn anything from this line before? Would love to hear any feedback.
Is this from the September Olfactif? That’s where my sample came from. It’s nice. I had never heard of this house. I noticed Olfactif has been featuring artisanal brands more then when I first had a subscription back in 2015
Have not heard of this line either but I am always interested in vanilla.
Nothing exciting here, thank goodness. I wore Miu Miu today, mostly because it matched my shirt.
Yesterday my daughter told me she wanted the new Arianna Grande perfume. Normally, a perfume request would make me happy, but I smelled it and hate it! It smells like Johnson’s baby lotion and ambroxan. The bottle is cute, but I will need a good 75% discount before I would get it.I like most of her other perfumes.
😊
I took a whiff of Cloud not too long ago. One tiny spray filled half the store. I put it down quickly and slunk away. 😊
Scary!!!
lol! Love the image of you slinking away.
my younger daughter also had that on her wish list (not having smelled it even) – but she’s easily distracted by other perfumes! She did buy herself, before the shutdown, some BBW body sprays and I hated those! Very happy she gave one away to the neighbor the other day.
It’s probably a normal teenager thing to be into Ariana Grande perfumes 😉, it’s great that you enjoy her other scents.
Wearing Fath de Fath today, from a mini. It is really lovely. Vintagey without being too vintage (it’s the 1993 reformulation). Soft, warm, a bit honeyed. I didn’t expect to like it this much.
Our weather is in transition here; it has been so hot and humid, but this morning when I let the dog out, it was cooler and less humid. It heated up later, but it definitely felt as if fall might be tiptoeing in.
One of my daughters went with me to the farmer’s market this morning, which was fun; we’re trying to spend our money on local small businesses to help them out, and it’s a pleasure to do that when you can get the yummy things at the farmer’s market. My favorite is the goat cheese, lemon and basil ravioli!
Have a good weekend, everyone!
That ravioli sounds incredible! Nom nom nom.
It truly is. I’m addicted to goat cheese in any form, and this is just delicious. I grow my own basil and use it as a garnish; when we first had this, I made a simple pan sauce with butter, basil, white wine, and lemon-infused olive oil. It was delicious but I might try to experiment more with sauce. Gotta keep it simple so as not to overwhelm the pasta’s flavor.
PSA: 20% off at Beauty Encounter with code RELAX20.
Thank you — I think! I need to back away slowly from online purchasing, I went on a bit of a binge for my upcoming birthday. But just to complete the enabling here, others have shared that Indiescents has a 20% off code too, summer20. (I’m not sure if it matters whether you type in lowercase or uppercase). They carry one of my favorite indie lines, 4160 Tuesdays, so I’m tempted. Again.
Ha! I got Goodbye Piccadilly.
Thank you everyone for the early birthday wishes yesterday.
Today I put on some C&E Iris lotion for my day outside. It was a beautiful sunny, perfect day for walking the golf course. Had a few drinks and a great bbq supper.
Tomorrow it’s another golf course hike starting in the morning and we should make it to the beach for the afternoon.
Happy late birthday, sounds like you have a nice day planned for tomorrow!
Thank you! Luckily it’s still so nice outside that we can enjoy the day. Weather is supposed to change drastically soon.
Happy Belated Birthday, Gail! I am glad to hear you had a nice and relaxing day!
Thank you, it was fun! I forgot to mention that we saw a momma bear and her cub on the golf course, running across the fairway when the coast was clear!
Wow, that’s amazing! Were you scared? And very happy birthday.
Maybe a little. The starter guy of the tournament mentioned that she had been spotted so they know where she usually is.
We were pretty far away when we saw her; but the risk is always there. She was more interested in teaching her baby something thankfully. I did mention to one of the guys that I was going to jump on piggyback just in case she decided to run after us!🐻
Glad you’re enjoying the golf course so much, and how wonderful to see bears, and many happy returns.
Thank you Aurora. It was fun out there.
Happy belated birthday Gail. I love C& E Iris. So good!
Thank you Petunia. It is a nice iris isn’t it!
Happy Labor day weekend everyone,
I’m starting my new theme for the week today – re-consider scents for the swapmeet, to see what I really want to part with. Had one “stay” and one “go” so far. Tomorrow it will be a toasty 111 degrees here so we’re headed to the high sierras for the day.
Enjoy the cooling sierras, 111, that’s hot!
Wow that’s really hot! It was only 55 here this morning
I think a couple of light spritzes of Shalimar Eau de Cologne are in order.
We arrived on our brief vacation… https://www.instagram.com/p/CEy_K5FpDI6/?igshid=qpeva926kn5e
It’s overcast this morning, but it was so unbelievably pleasant to sit outside drinking coffee with a view of the water.
What a lovely spot for watching the sunrise!
It looks nice and peaceful. Enjoy you brief vacation!
Gorgeous!!!
Trying AG Songes this weekend. It’s very beautiful but certainly a mood. It will be interesting to see how different it is in the fall/winter.
I picked up Penhaligon’s Clandestine Clara. It’s a very nice smokey vanilla, and the bottle is amazing. I just want to carry it around to look at it all day.
Have to work the holiday, but at least no one will bother me with their pesky questions and meetings. Am also a Fantasy Football widow, Mr.’s draft is tomorrow so he’s still going through all of the statistics on whether drafting rookies this year is worth it or not.
I have the Penhaligon’s as well except I always start of calling it “Clairvoyant Claire”.
I copied Pl67 and wore L’Ame Perdue yesterday. More today!
Started off in Killian Amber Oud from my new bottle. Have to say, this is disappointing. It smells the way I remember, but intensity and longevity are reduced. After three hours it was pretty well gone. Has it been reformulated? Ugh. Over sprayed with my go to Sham’s Oud, and topped that off with a spritz of Dame Wisteria. Now I smell like I am sitting in a wisteria covered arbor waiting for the wood fired grill to heat up before putting the steaks and corn in foil on for a holiday lunch
Have a good weekend, one and all.
I wouldn’t give up yet. Sometimes my bottle of Amber Oud seems quiet also. Other days it seems stronger and longer lasting. Hope it works out – Amber Oud is so beautiful.
Interesting observation!
I will give it more tries. When I first found this blog, and was talking about what sort of things I thought I might like, generous Hajusuri (sp?!) sent me a little decant of this, as well as a drop of Mohur Extrait, and I was hooked on the scents, the blog, and the lovely community!
Ha! I do believe I was that naughty person 😇
You’re well known for your unfailing generosity. 😊
A wisteria by Dame? This is a lemming clarion call. Also, good point,
Springpansy, I have several scents that speak to me more or less at various times! Not a “skin chemistry” thing; some other variation.
There is a rollerball and a 60 ml EDT/EDP. Both reasonably priced. I enjoy the spray more than the roller ball which may just be a function of how I use it. In the summer, I often overspray a light application my woody and Chypre perfumes with this to give a summery floral boost. I seldom wear it during the colder months.
“a lemming clarion call”,I love that sentence!🌹
Scentless but productive day today!
Laundry:done
Vacuuming:done
Siesta:DONE!
18:37 PM,I am so glad the sun is starting to set wayyy later!
Hope everyone is having an awesome weekend.
Envy: vacuuming done! Have a nice sunset!
Thanks!🌞✌🏻🤗
It’s a good thing I like you, Johano. Otherwise I would be very jealous of your late setting sun😉😀❤
Haha.It’s about bloody time!!Winter could not be over fast enough!
Hope your day is improving!
XO
Huzzah for both laundry and vacuuming done!
SOTD started out with TF Noir. I nabbed a 50ml at Plato’s Closet. I’ve worn it a few times and it is very fine but too masculine for this lady. Hmm, Swapmeet is coming…I switched to vintage Avon Imperial Garden. It must have my beloved galbanum, along with some florals. I have several, campy, “Oriental Eggs” and a use-it-as-a-candlestick-when-empty glass bottle. If anyone knows more about Imperial Garden, please chime in. I think I originally got it when I first went down the vintage rabbit hole and I am, well, an Ebay troller. Full disclosure a dear Aunt had lots of 1960’s Avons and she wore more perfume than my dear Mother. Perhaps I remembered it from those days? Hope all are safe and enjoying a long weekend!
I wish my Plato’s closet had perfume, but they don’t. I’m a fan of TF Noir, if it’s the one I am thinking of, it’s like a masculine Shalimar.
I get Noir and Noir de Noir mixed up. I type this, but just looked them up and oh! Okay, now I remember. Totally different lines and prices. 🙄
I’d say yes to a Shalimar comparison, lillyjo. I think I got it because I saw the word “iris” and she is there, but the over all blend is dry and formal to me, whereas Shalimar has that sweetness.
I’m wearing Lush’s Breath of God today and just loving the way I smell. It’s a bit weird but it really works.
My husband had the “What is that?” reaction when I wore a sample spray home. I told him what it was called, and he said, “God’s Breath smells like a sawmill?” His reaction is similar but less emphatic to LADDM, and most cedar rich scents. Everyone has their own scent association.
Oh my,I remember how much I loved that on the first sniff!Such an odd but crazy/beautiful perfume!You smell heavenly!🤭✌🏻
I just had the stupidest argument with a customer! Grr.. yay for lunch! Suppose to storm today, I hope it waits till I’m home. Sotd is vintage Dior Addict. Perfection 🌞
Confession:I have never tested Addict.Will seek it out and think of you!🤗
What!? Oh you must. The current version is still pretty good, but the vanilla in the vintage is just the best, imo. They don’t smell alike but it’s the same “feel” as Organza.
Oh!And I do LOVE Organza!!Now I MUST,absolutely!
I second what lillyjo said – you must!
On the next visit to a Dior counter!✌🏻
I am lurking around for the new Shalimar Philtre de Parfum. My information source is Fragrantica, which seems to say it’s not available in the USA yet. Does anyone know better?
Per Bergdorf, October, so not long to wait!
Thanks! Must make some phone calls; aaaand I’m an October birthday, so *feeling entitled*
There is a recent review of this scent by Smurphygirly (sp?) on You Tube if you are interested.
Oohh.. I will watch it tonight.
I’ve been in the kitchen making things I shouldn’t: flapjacks (the British kind) and chocolate chip oatmeal raisin cookies. The cookies have cream of tartar, and are rolled in cinnamon sugar, so they’re basically jacked up snickerdoodles.
Dough is in the fridge, cookie baking to commence in T minus 19 minutes. Nan, are you a NASA brat by chance? Why yes, yes I am. 🚀
I’m in Shalimar cologne today. Sadly, this is not my jam and will probably be swapped. 😕
What distinguishes a flapjack from a pancake?
A British flapjack is actually a cross between a granola bar and a cookie. It has too much sugar to really be a granola bar (my recipe also has no mix ins), but no rising agents/flour/eggs like you’d find in a cookie.
My flapjack recipe has quick oats, butter, brown sugar, dash of salt and Lyle’s golden syrup, and that’s it.
That being said, I suspect this is the kind of recipe that everyone makes, and everyone puts their own particular spin on.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CEznz6-Bhez/?igshid=1psmvia4vr2yt
Sounds delicious! Thank you for the reply!
ha! NASA brat and jacked up snickerdoodles made me smile.
A recipe for snickerdoodle blondies sorely tempted me today, but I’m not baking anything until the outdoor temps are below 90.
I completely enjoyed a decant of vintage Shalimar cologne. I’ve since wondered if the current Shalimar cologne is worth a sniff. Probably not, eh?
I’d be glad to send you some, tiffanie! Drop me a line at nlmcook aaaat abc global dot net. 😊
I do not blame you for not wanting to bake right now. Our AC is still cranking away…
hi and thank you! funny thing is that today I tossed my sample stash and found a recent sample of Shalimar EdC. I’ll wear it this week.
I got a big grin on my face after I read “NASA brat”. So awesome!
😁
Post-Sunday morning run, I am in Au Dela Narcisse. I wanted something bright and cheerful, and it’s suiting the bill quite well.
Usually over Labor Day weekend, Mr. Spicebomb and I have a standing date to go to “Art in the Pearl,” a large and usually well-curated art fair in downtown Portland. Of course, it’s not a thing this year, but I miss having the outing to look forward to. Maybe we join a ridiculous Portland line for ice cream later in the day, but I bet we pretty much stay home for the remainder of the weekend.
Hope you got the ice cream! The art fair will seem even better next year — like everything else we all used to do
Yes! I got a double scoop, so doubly celebratory–salted caramel squirrel and huckleberry corn bread (one of those weird Salt and Straw recipes that shouldn’t work but does). Sadly, our favorite local shop was closed due to freezer issues and we had to “settle” for Salt and Straw. It was still yummy, of course.
🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 SWIRL not squirrel.
HA, I thought it must be a caramel flavor with nuts or something! Anyway, your ice cream sounds fantastic. I wish my second favorite ice cream place had huckleberry corn bread!
You can actually mail order pints of Salt & Straw online from their shops and have it shipped to you. Huckleberry Corn Bread is a seasonal flavor, so you’d have to hop to it, if you deicide you want to give it a go!
I have considered mail ordering Jeni’s ice cream in the past, but always balk at the shipping price, which is probably reasonable for ice cream, but then it becomes VERY expensive ice cream. I will take a peek at Salt & Straw though!
Ooh, I loved Art in Pearl when I went a while back!
Most years the quality and variety of art is really good!
I was the packaginator yesterday – 21 packages of Le Lion de Chanel yesterday, sealed and dropped off at the post office. Everyone will get their tracking number later today.
I can make either 1 x 10mL or 2 x 5mL decants; $24.50 and $14.50, respectively. U.S. only. If interested, dibs here and send me an email with Subject “Chanel Le Lion”.
SOTD = testing Scents of Wood 1, 2 and 3. I received a complimentary discovery set (3 x 10mL) from the founder Fabrice @scentsofwood. I tried to offer a nominal amount but was ultimately convinced I should not look a gift horse in the mouth. There’s no quid pro quo. I started with a Story (eek, I will post a link tomorrow once I move it to archive), more as a teaser and to show more owls 🦉. I will definitely do a regular IG post shortly. I understand it will be subscription-based and I am still wrapping my head around that! The brand is timed to launch on the Fall Equinox, September 22.
I have seen many comparisons to Shalimar edt of Le Lion,what say you?
With my 8 spray dose, it’s more Coromandel and Mitzah with a little bit of Shalimar. I think it depends on how many sprays and your skin. It is definitely worth a sniff!
Dibs on 5! Your instagram review got me
Emailed you back!
Dibs on a decant of Le Lion!
Emailed you back!
I am so happy you received Scents of Wood samples to try. Some of the initial recipients are people that think “panty dropper” and “beast mode” are appropriate terms to use when describing fragrance. I understand when launching a new brand, you probably want to get as much exposure as you can. I am curious to find out what you think because I value your opinion and owls!
Beast Mode is fine if you are talking about Chris Rusak’s beautiful perfume named thusly. Thank you for the sample!
You’re welcome. Surprisingly, Beast Mode was not beastly on me 🤣
Thank you. I was happy I had the perfect owl tableau to go with the set! I know what you mean about getting more exposure for a new brand; I just hope it is not priced out of the market given its “luxury niche” niche. And I agree that panty-dropper and beast-mode do not describe perfumes adequately.
Hehehehehe… “packaginator”! You probably have it down to a science at this point.
Kinda scary because I do have it down to an almost science 🤣
Baking day today! I already have in the oven cranberry/orange mini muffins and pumpkin spice mini cupcakes. Cooking and baking are always a good therapy for me.
This morning there was a terrifying car accident in front of my building. The crash was so, so loud that I went downstairs to check. One of the cars flipped over and the other one ended up on the sidewalk. Thanks God no one was hit on the sidewalk. I was shocked thinking that if that had happened 1 hour before when I was out for a walk I would not have been that lucky. Anyway, firefighters, police and ambulances rushed to the scene. I went upstairs when I saw that the doors of the flipped over car were getting cut by firefighters. I didn’t want to see them removing the people who were inside. As of the other car on the sidewalk they were also working on it when I left. I hope nobody was lost in that accident, but the injuries must be very serious.
Wearing a tiny spray of Philosophy Fresh Cream, which matches my baking chore. I will change later for AC Iris Rebelle. I have not worn it in a long, long time.
Heart goes out to you PL67. As a child, we lived near an intersection that had several wrecks before a traffic light was put in.
Thank you, MossyBerry! It was pretty awful. I feel for the people involved in the accident. I hope they are all alive.
I’m sorry you had to see that accident, and so glad you were not on the sidewalk. I hope the rest of the week is uneventful for you. 🌹
Thank you, Lillyjo! I hope so too! 🤞
How traumatic. I hope the victims survived.
I hope so too!
If it makes you feel any better, a lot of times when first responders are using the “jaws of life” to cut open a vehicle, it means that the person(s) inside have a good chance of survival.
There are a couple of scary intersections near where I live… I keep my eyes open and stay alert when I go thru them.
I always turn down the radio when I’m going through a bad intersection.
This accident didn’t happen in the intersection, which is very unusual. Wonder how that could happen! It is a relief to know the chances of survival are high!
I’m still in last night’s Cuir Beluga (finished off a sample, yay!) and will be until I go swimming today. I haven’t been swimming in at least 15 years, which is crazy given how much I love it. I just let my self consciousness about my body get in the way. My boyfriend’s coworker and wife are away camping this weekend and are letting us go over to their house and use their new pool! I’m really very excited to swim and be in a pool. When we found out we were going to get to do this a few weeks ago, we had to go online and order bathing suits. So I finally have a bathing suit again! Before the pandemic, I’d thought of wanting to join an athletic club near my office just so I could swim there. Maybe I will once life is back to normal.
After my 6.5 miles of walking on Friday, I was still pretty exhausted yesterday but pulled myself together to do my standard neighborhood walk plus those stairs I posted about a week or two ago. I was super bummed to discover I’d left my phone at home and didn’t get “credit” for all those steps I took since I track my steps on an app in my phone. Oh well, at least I know I put in the work.
SPLIT OFFER:
I bought a bottle of Serge Lutens Vitriol d’Oeillet off eBay this week after really liking the sample I used up. With tax it was $64.95 for a 50ml bottle, which works out to $1.29/ml. There would also be a shipping charge of $3.50-$4 I estimate. I wouldn’t charge for decant bottle unless you want a “nicer” 5ml decant bottle. I can let you know details on the bottles over email. Oh, and I’ll split up to 30ml. You can email me at gmail using my NST username. Please also post your interest here too. Thanks!
5ml = $6.45 + $4 shipping (I can run a shipping quote and charge exact shipping so this is an estimate) = $10.45 unless you want an especially nice atomizer
10ml = $12.90 + $4 (I can run a shipping quote and charge exact shipping so this is an estimate) = $16.90
Vitriol d’Oeillet is wonderful, IMHO!
Dibs on 5ml, please. I will email you tonight. Thanks!
Trying a sample of BDK Rouge Smoking today…haven’t tried anything from this line yet. Notes are below…I am getting cherry tobacco so far.
TOP: Bergamot from Italy, Cherry accord, Pink berries
HEART: Black vanilla, Heliotrope
BASE: Ambroxan, Cashmeran, Tonka bean, Labdanum, White musk
Sounds very tempting…cherry and tobacco!
Happy Long Weekend everyone!
This weekend’s SOTDs: Tommy Hilfiger Dreaming (yesterday); today I wore DKNY Stories. Pretty, pleasant scent.
Hope it was a good weekend for you too, GateGirl!
Hi everyone! Thanks so much for expressing care and concern about my poor toe. It was still swollen and sore and even more purple today, so I went to an urgent care facility this afternoon. I had a long wait but they did tests and X-rays and said it is not broken. It’s a severe “crushing injury.” I am supposed to rest, ice and elevate it, and take Advil. I decided wine was in order too, and now it’s nap time. I wore Fleur de Liane today, just for a change. It is light, green, and pleasant without being earth-shattering. I don’t get either the melon or aquatic notes many people complain about. Nor any marigold, which might be interesting.
Good news! Wishing you a speedy recovery!
Glad it’s not broken. Hopefully the Advil will manage the pain.
Oh I’m glad it’s not broken but severe crushing injury sounds like no fun at all. I hope you make a quick and full recovery
I’m happy to hear that your poor toe isn’t broken. However, a “severe crushing injury” sounds terrible!
Yes, it’s a bit creepy isn’t it? They gave me a printout and it says things can be injured inside including blood vessels, nerves, tendons, and muscles. Not all that reassuring!
I think I would take the broken toe! j/k
Hope your recovery is swift and fragrant 🤕
Glad to hear it’s not broken!
Catching up late on the comments; I hope you are managing the pain well. Crushing injury almost makes you nauseous and weak just from the words themselves.
Sunday SOTD has been Goldfield & Banks Blue Cypress. Made with Australian blue cypress essential oil, which I’d love to buy but the shipping costs from Australia are prohibitive. Curious to smell that ingredient on its own. I have never been a fan of aquatic scents and this one has lavender as well as wood notes but it does have a watery feel.
I’ve seen this brand on he Etiket website. Not enabling though!
Overcast morning with rain predicted soon. Wearing Atélier des Ors Rouge Sarây.
Send us some rain, please! But NO LIGHTNING!!
It looks like it’s supposed to storm until around noon, then stop, then start up again at about 3. Wore vintage BaV yesterday and wearing it now. I think that LADDM will be my work scent and hoping I don’t deal with a lot of drama at work today and the power doesn’t go out but I have tons of candles if case we do.
I have work drama today with 4 people already calling in ” sick”
Hope your day goes smoothly.
If you work retail, that’s normal.
Pretty much. We are short handed on a normal day, so it’s extra frustrating.
That’s a pain! Gone are the days when you had to prove why you called out unexpectedly. You will power through.
Were those folks sick or just hung over, I wonder?
Quiet and relaxing day at home.
Wearing FM Une Fleur de Cassie.
A well deserved relaxing day.😀
Thank you! 🌷
Glad to hear that it has been a relaxing day for you and your dog!
Thank you, Jalapeno! It was a very nice and relaxing long weekend. And the weather was perfect!
I have decided it’s time to invest in some real weightlifting equipment for home. Oof. So, yesterday I ordered a rack and some safety bars. I will have to wait on weight plates and a bar, but my dad might have something I can start with, and my trainer said she could maybe lend me some things.
That means today is “clean out the garage” day. We have 5-6 weeks before the rack arrives, so that’s probably about right for us to get some insulation and drywall up. We dumped stuff in there when we moved in, so now we can decide what we actually need to keep storing and what can go to a new home/to the landfill. Guessing there’s little real *junk* in there, as hopefully we didn’t move junk with us last year! Wearing OJ Ta’if to power me through what I expect will be a dusty, hot job!
Good luck on the clean out! I need to do a lot of that myself.
Thanks. It’s a job we’ve ignored literally over a year now. Good to have a reason to get it done and over with!
Good luck cleaning! I have so many of those projects — parkade storage space, kid closet full of toys she’s long outgrown, toy box full of toys she hasn’t yet outgrown (chemistry set, games) but rarely touches — and somehow I never quite get to them. I think you may be inspiring me to tackle the closet.
Thanks! Good luck with that closet.
4 new Amouage perfumes coming out 15/9,FOUR!!They all sound lovely,and it has been a while since I have been really excited about a new launch!
This was a PSA,by the way.XO
I think you’re angling for enabler pins 🔥. Exciting news!
Haha!
Not sure if you are a fan of Amouage,but if you happen to bump into them,do let me know your thoughts!
Our local stockist is pretty on the ball with new release,so I’ll be able to sniff also shortly after release!
Calyx for me today, from the back of my drawer. Just said summer to me — I’m trying to hang on!
Went for a long bike ride yesterday and finally had to admit to the spouse that I absolutely hate my pedals and I demand new ones. I have his old Look pedals from probably the ’80s. I know he’s been riding on them forever, but I haven’t, and I can’t stand being in the middle of an intersection, pawing at my pedal with my shoe to turn it right side up and losing momentum. It’s a serious psychological block for me right now. (Well, that and hills…I need to get in better shape. Of course, since I ride cleanup behind a tween on a mountain bike averaging about 10 mph when hills are factored in, that isn’t really helping me…)
So, off to the bike shop today.
Hope everyone’s enjoying the day off (at least here in North America)!
I had just a regular day off,so basically enjoyed Labor day with you guys!
Calyx!I should find mine,it has been years since its last outing!!🙌🏼✌🏻
I don’t get mine out that often, either, but it’s always fun when I do!
Hope you found the pedals you wanted!
Yes. It was an expensive outing but we got some that stay right side up when you’re trying to get into them!
Yay!
Here you go, a link to what is now a visible Stories highlight on Scents of Wood. I had to showcase the perfect owl tableau in my collection:
https://www.instagram.com/s/aGlnaGxpZ2h0OjE3ODQ0Mjc3NjI1MzUzMDg3?igshid=1r0yjvhsiawzc
I impulse bought a bunch of low cost samples from a discounter to get free shipping when making an otherwise responsibly planned purchase. Today, I am trying a couple: Shalimar Initial L’Eau on left wrist and La Petite Robe Noir on right wrist. I think I am the target audience for the Shalimar (was a kid in the ’90s and my mom wore the original, was a teen/young adult in the 00s surrounded by cleaned up “blue” type scents) and I do like it. The cherry in LPRN however, started off tart and shriek-y on me and I am not a fan.
Update on dog from a few weeks ago: He’s adjusting great! He is very cuddly. Going outside is scary because he doesn’t like walking on the deck, but lets Mr. Birdy pick him up and carry him to the yard. He and the cat are even getting along fine and are mostly aloof but respectful.
Happy Labor Day!
And I am the target audience for the LPRN!
What does he do if Mr. Birdy sets him down on the deck?
He will run back inside or to the grass as fast as he can go with his tail tucked down! I’m just glad he’s fine with going outside now and hoping that with enough positive experiences and treats he will brave the deck.
Aw!
In Penhaligon’s Changing Constance today, which can miraculously still be smelled over this week’s Italian sausage, broccoli, pepper and sun-dried tomato pesto pizza that just popped out of the oven. I also made a cinnamon-cardamom coffee cake last night.
That’s been about the sum of my long weekend, along with laundry and tidying.
Currently reading Margaret Atwater’s “The Year of the Flood” and wishing I enjoyed her writing style more, as I always love the substance of her work but never the actual experience of reading it. I tried taking a breather with “A Discovery of Witches” by Deborah Harkness and like it potentially even less. How this was made into a TV series boggles me.
Also though I may be (am definitely) cranky seeing my city facing an impending second wave of COVID due to school term starting and general population laxity with regards to social distancing… Maybe I shouldn’t be passing judgment on books’ ability to distract me from my anxiety right now 😜
Hope everyone else has been enjoying a stress free long weekend!!
I’m glad I’m not the only one to find Margaret Atwood not to my tastes! I think you sum up my thoughts pretty well — substance is good but don’t enjoy reading it. I read a lot of her stuff in high school and university, and have to say I much preferred the Alice Walker I was reading at the same time.
Song of the day: https://youtu.be/XQylSkFbN7U
Three days so far of absolutely, undeniably perfect late summer weather. I could get used to this…
SOTHoliday Weekend = ELdO’s Fat Electrician, from the sample stash. My bottle is awaiting its turn.
Oh my gosh Jalapeno! I haven’t thought of this song in ages, lol. Loved the video… Back when life wasn’t so serious. 🤘😀
I’ve had that song in my head all weekend. It was a nice change from some of the stuff that’s been there recently.
Whew! Long day of vacationing. Starting with breakfast at Al Johnson’s. Swedish pancakes with a side of meatballs.
Since it was blustery and cool as we had coffee on our hotel patio, I wore Kelly Caleche today. It warmed up nicely and all the forecast rain didn’t show up. Hoping that remains true tomorrow. Many of the tourists have left town, so it’s much quieter this evening.
That sounds lovely!