Sugar and Spite

SURPRISE SALE - kinda a big one! :-)

2012-01-25T18:56:00.001-08:00

Surprise 4 hour sale at The Morbid The Merrier! Follow this link for 20% off your entire order! http://www.themorbidthemerrier.com?code=surprise Ends at 11pm PST

COUPON CODE

2012-01-16T14:38:00.001-08:00

The other was reported non-working. Try this one: http://www.themorbidthemerrier.com?code=123

It's been a while!!!!

2012-01-16T13:33:00.000-08:00

Wow-eee...... I've not been able to post here for a bit, and have made a promise to myself to do it more. I wanted to let everyone know the VDay perfumes are on the site, and because I'm so late, there is a 10% discount on your entire order if you follow this link. Sale ends tomorrow! themorbidthemerrier.com

Here they are:

X is for Xerxes - devoured by mice

2011-11-28T12:37:00.000-08:00

The holidays are here! Sickness has caused me to be sooooo late and I'm sorry.

This year I am offering 4 scents, an homage to the Gashlycrumb Tinies.

X is for Xerxes - devoured by mice:     rich chocolate, sweet amber, and a kick of black pepper
M is for Maud - who was swept out to sea:   golden honey, tangy orange, baked apricot and ginger
Z is for Zillah - who drank too much gin:   frankincense, myrrh, black cypress and juniper
Q is for Quentin - who sank in a mire:   almond cake, glazed walnuts, and black tea leaves

All four scents will be offered in sugar polish, lotion, and 5ml perfume oils. Listing today!~

Happy holidays everyone!

SICKNESS

2011-11-22T14:09:00.000-08:00

SOMETHING has knocked me down. In a big way. What started as a simple cold (I thought) has turned into multiple trips to the hospital and not being able to get out of bed LITERALLY for a week. I'm still not well, but I am out of bed at least and able to start working again. My doctor says if this isn't better by Friday-ish, we need to start testing to see what it is. There's a sickness prevalent in these parts, called Valley Fever and it is ugly, ugly stuff. I had it when I was a kid and it almost killed me.

I've been thinking a lot about my business, and how every little thing that happens to me throws a monkey wrench right into my production and turnaround times. Unfortunately, a lot happens to me. Why? No idea - that's something I've always wondered myself!!! Having gone 41 years with this luck, and it not changing so far, I'm assuming it will be with me forever. ha ha.

So here's what I've (mostly) decided. As my company grows, I've come to realize there is NO WAY I can do it by myself anymore. I physically cannot. Even when I am well, the demand is overwhelming and I find myself working 12 hour days and spending most of my time frustrated and prone to making mistakes. I've also come to realize that most of the companies I know are partnerships. They are able to have faster turnaround times, answer emails promptly, advertise --- all the things that come along with owning a business ---- because there are two of them.

so ----- I'm in negotiations with a very close friend of mine to split TMTM 50/50. We will be a partnership. Schematics have not been worked out entirely, as we've only begun talking, but I think we will be able to work it out so it benefits everyone involved. I am eternally grateful that you all allow me to pay my bills by doing what I love and I no longer want to disappoint you or make you wait for your orders. It's not fair to the people who have supported me and grown right along with me.

As our talks progress, I will keep you all abreast of what will be happening. I am currently on the lookout for sponsors and a small business loan, so I can get this machine well-oiled and running properly. Please wish me luck. I'm scared to death, but this was my only choice - besides quitting altogether and giving up something I have poured BUCKETS of blood, sweat and tears into.

There will be a blog shortly about holiday releases. Also, there is a pre-Black Friday sale happening right now. Buy 2 full size perfumes, get one free - buy 3 solid perfumes, get one free.

Love you guys.
Lysa

New offerings today

2011-11-04T10:36:00.000-07:00

some of these have been requested for a loooooong time. I'm having a really busy day, so this will be a short blog. But here ya go - these will be in the shop today:

1891

Absinthe

Aurora

Horseman

Ichabod

Katrina

ODDITORIA Goodies, and Morton's Untimely Death

2011-11-01T16:18:00.000-07:00

I've finally put the Odditoria stuff up on the website. As of today, there is:

Agatha: solid perfume, body lotion and sugar polish
Dhanya: solid perfume, body lotion and sugar polish
Eggbert: solid perfume, body lotion and sugar polish
Isabella: solid perfume, body lotion and sugar polish
Morton: solid perfume, body lotion and sugar polish

I know I said the new solids would be vegan. Sadly, I cannot get the formula right and there are some weird "after-smell" issues with the wax. I don't like it, and won't be listing them at this time. The new solids - wow - I am so excited about them! I went back to the tins I used to love so much. I also upped the fragrance load A LOT. There is almost a full bottles-worth of fragrance packed into this tin. They are much stronger and longer lasting now. In case you're wondering - yes, the TMTM scents will be available in this format. It's just finding the time to get to it!!! As soon as I can get labels designed and printed, and buy the MILLION and a half tins I'm going to need, you will start seeing them appear, along with the discontinuation of the old packaging.

As was discussed before, Morton will be leaving us. One of his components is no more. :-( I have a VERY VERY limited number of products, so if you can't live without Morton, hop on it. *sigh* I am going to try and reformulate, but I don't think the new Morton will smell exactly like this one. I'm not even sure it will be close, to tell the truth.

I'm getting orders out as fast as I can. I am SO backlogged, it's laughable. I keep wondering how I can be working so many hours, yet still be behind. I don't get it. BUT they are getting out the door!!

Talk to you soon.

Love, Lysa

New Product Announcement

2011-10-27T16:39:00.000-07:00

You guys spoke and I listened. :-)

I'm introducing the first new products today, and will keep making these announcements until all new products are spoken for.

But FIRST we need to talk about some things.

I am loving the new website. Traffic is still a bit slow, but I knew it wouldn't be an easy transition. So tell a friend! Tell two!

And there are a few things that may need clarification, as well as policy changes.

1.) The shopping cart is a little wacky, and cannot seem to get the postage right for *anything*. As a result, postage is either too high or too low. I'm working on it, and will be refunding postage overages as I ship orders out. Please don't freak. You will get your money back!

2.) Because of the slip ups with the USPS, any orders over $20 will ship Priority only. They seem to do a bang-up job when something is sent Priority mail. I decided to do this to save headaches for ALL of us. You get your items faster and I get to stop replacing lost packages! Yay! And the postage really isn't that much more. I can fit a whole lotta stuff into a flat rate envelope. I'm still trying to figure out what to do about the internationals, though. Ideas? I've also created a section on the web site called "Postage Savers." It's group of items grouped together for a flat rate. I will definitely be putting some of the new products in there as gift sets.

3.) This is the part where people may get antsy. I will be discontinuing some fragrances to make way for new stuff. I'm also getting rid of a lot of lip balms :::ducking:::

HOWEVER ---- Most of them will not be gone forever. I'm thinking there might be "guest appearances" every month! And I'll tell you why I'm doing that right now.

Coming very soon, all TMTM and Odditoria catalog fragrances will have a coordinating solid perfume, sugar scrub, and lotion. Now that's cool, right? I've done the Odditoria ones already, and there's good news and bad news about that.

The good news:

The Odditoria catalog scents are:

Morton
Agatha
Dhanya
Isabella
Eggbert

The bad news - one of Morton's key components has been discontinued. *sigh* I'm really sad about this because it is truly one of my favorites. So he will be a catalog fragrance until that component is gone, and then be replaced with another permanent one.

I'm going to wait to announce the permanent TMTM fragrances because a.) I'm still undecided about a couple of them and b.) I'm scared of you guys.

Oh and did I mention the new solids are VEGAN??

but here is the Odditoria line for Morton

So???? Thoughts? Ideas?

TMTM has moved!!!

2011-10-25T13:23:00.000-07:00

From now on, all business will be conducted through the official site - www.themorbidthemerrier.com. Wheee!!!! I'm tremendously excited about getting away from the fees and politics of a huge corporation!

There are going to be some big changes coming up - things I"m really excited about. I think everyone else will be, too. :-)

So tell a friend!!! Let's get the word out there!!

Love, Lysa

SALE

2011-10-18T08:05:00.003-07:00

I do believe it's SALE TIME, boils and ghouls! If you haven't gotten 'round to picking up the Halloween scents, now would be the time! Starting now, through Thursday @ 8am PST, buy any 2 full size fragrances, get one full size frangrance FREE. This offer applies to all fragrances in the shop, including LE and EDP! Just leave your free choice in the message to seller. http://www.themorbidthemerrier.etsy.com

Clarification about samples and yesterday's post

2011-09-22T15:50:00.000-07:00

I feel bad. Really bad. I didn't mean AT ALL that I don't want to do samples!!!!! What I meant was - I currently offer sets of 3, 5, and 10, and sometimes in one order, there will be 2 sets of 10, plus 2 sets of 5. I'm just limiting it to ONE sample order per order. So essentially a 10 sample max.

Hopefully this won't be too much of an issue after the weekend. I'm planning on working straight through the weekend to get all these orders up to date, and get my TAT down to something more reasonable. I'm only taking a break to go to the fair and eat funnel cake (yum), then straight back to work! I can do this!!!

Samples, and evil black beasts!

2011-09-21T08:55:00.000-07:00

I have to take a break from order-filling today to go buy bug spray. I have black widows. While they are glorious as tattoos or Halloween decorations, they are very much NOT awesome hanging out on my property. I have one hiding on my outside trash can, and every time I see her, she goes into this little hidey hole. Last night as I was rolling the can out to the curb, I could have sworn I felt something crawl on my hand and subsequently dumped the ENTIRE trash can over into the street. While cursing her and her unborn egg sacks, I swore that would be the last time. Today they all go to black widow heaven.

Speaking of being busy, I have some news about samples. Unfortunately I am going to have to impose a strict limit on the number of samples that can be purchased in a single order. I don't want to sound mean or ungrateful, especially since I am definitely a "try before you buy" type girl, but labeling and filling samples is VERY time consuming, and is partially responsible for my long TAT right now. I am working into the night *every* night now trying to meet demand, and it's really hard to be quick while filling an order containing 25-30 samples. Each vial, as you know, must be labeled and hand-written individually. So there you have it. Hopefully if I impose a limit, I can get my TAT down to a reasonable amount of time.

Does that sound terrible? I trust you guys and would really like to hear your opinions.

Off to Lowe's for bug spray!!!!

Where my winners at?

2011-09-13T16:01:00.001-07:00

Let's get you these Halloween perfumes!!

Attention, Boils and Ghouls

2011-09-07T15:58:00.000-07:00

The shop is stocked for HALLOWEEN!!!

HALLOOOOOOOOOWEEEEEN!!!

2011-09-06T21:07:00.000-07:00

WOW. There has been *craziness* with trying to catch up!!!!! I'm thinking Halloween will hit the shop tomorrow - yay!!!! I'm going to try to get everything photographed and listed by about 3pm PST. In addition to these perfumes, the remaining stock of Saucy Jack and The Saw is Family will be there too!

GEIST PERFUMES:

Wraith - wispy purple flowers, creamy vanilla, 3 pale musks, and sweet lemon tea.

Diablo - The devil, indeed! Fiery cinnamon paired with blood red roses and incense

Goblin - A juicy, sweet caramel apple.......with a wormy center.

Fiend - Buttery, spicy pumpkin cookies, layered over black, wet wood

HALLOWEEN LIMITED EDITIONS:

Quoth the Raven - Fruit orchards, a sharp spike of clove, and the remnants of chimney smoke on dirty wings.

Thorn - Church incense, candle wax, and red animalistic musk

Romero - A wreath of funeral flowers, leather seats, vetiver, and mahogany.

Little Drop of Poison - Dragon's blood, plump dark berries and red wine barely conceal a rich, resinous and very poisonous base.

We All Float Down Here - Lemon drops, raspberry hard candy, bubble gum, gutter water, and the fleeting smell of a red balloon.

Hope you like them!!!

Love, Lysa

Update

2011-08-31T09:20:00.000-07:00

It's been a heck of a year. Un-be-lievable. I've never had such a tumultuous period of time, ever.

EVER.

It looks like everything is back on track. I got a sweet little house and was able to reopen TMTM much more quickly than I originally thought possible. My house is VERY small, but you know what? It's mine. I never again want to experience having no home for my daughter and I. It's never happened before and I'm determined it will never happen again.

I am currently working night and day, day and night to catch up on these orders. When I lost my home, my outstanding orders numbered almost to 100. 100!!!!!!! For those of you waiting, I am sending an email to each and every person when their order ships. I dare say I'm nearly caught up now!!

I am stunned by the level of understanding and compassion from people. I thought it was going to be a huge mess, everyone would be mad at me, and I *really* thought I was going to lose TMTM for good. Thank god that didn't happen. This business is my life.

As far as Halloween, it is still happening - just late. I've designed labels and they're going to the printer today. I will post here as soon as I'm ready to list everything. I of course can't do it until I'm completely caught up. That would be suicide! ha ha

I could write so much more, but I need to get back to work!!!!

Thank you everyone for being so damn cool.

Love, Lysa

Sorry

2011-08-22T12:33:00.000-07:00

I want everyone to know I'm getting orders out as fast as possible. I've ofund myself with no place to live, and therefore no place to work. I am working diligently to find a place to set up so I can get orders out. I am an honest person, and don't want anyone to think they're not going to get their orders. I apologize deeple for this. Please forgive me.

Pre Sale

2011-08-14T14:13:00.000-07:00

A little less than 2 hours until the pre-sale. Today is BUSY BUSY. I promised Bella to help her make cake pops, then there's the sale, then the photoshoot for Gothic Beauty magazine, then orders and orders and orders to fill. I'm so far behind, I'm almost ahead! AUGHH!!!!!!!! :-)

But I did want to post this reminder!!!

:::::off to run around like a crazy person:::::::

And here it is! The results are in!

2011-08-10T16:47:00.000-07:00

First of all, I want to thank everyone who entered. I did NOT expect the turnout I got. Not at all. I had so much fun reading through all your suggestions. I've got some brilliant people reading this blog! There were so many I wanted to do, and had a terrible time choosing. Some I had my heart set on were already taken by other perfumers or by the Big Daddy of perfumers (wink).

So I will announce the drawing winners and then move on to what everyone can expect for this season.

Aww...... look at all you guys in my cupcake mixing bowl :-)

Runners up. You guys can choose any full size perfume, either from the Halloween collection when it comes out or current stock.

AND THE WINNER IS............................!!!!

You win a gift set from the Halloween collection (which I'll explain below). :-)

So what can you expect from TMTM this Halloween?

GEIST will make its appearance again. The GEIST line will feature four different scents, each with corresponding lotion, vegan bath salts, lip balm and sugar scrub. I'm extremely excited about these (and they're already formulated and ready to go)!! Everything can be purchased separately or as a gift set, which comes packaged in a chocolate brown gable box, tied with black ribbon, and my signature gold seal.

Oh, I guess you probably want to know what the new "inspired" perfumes will be this year, huh?

:::dramatic music:::

Romero

Thorn (for Damien)

Quoth the Raven

Little Drop of Poison

We All Float Down Here

It took me forever to decide (well, except Romero - ha ha), so formulation is about halfway finished. I will announce the scent descriptions at the same time I announce the GEIST scent descriptions.

I am holding a special pre-Halloween sale for Saucy Jack and The Saw is Family. I have a VERY limited supply of fragrance components for both of these, so I will make as many bottles as possible and place them for sale THIS SUNDAY @ 4PM PST - MIDNIGHT in the Etsy shop. I really don't like doing it this way, but Halloween is going to be pretty intense this year, and I wanted to get these out of the way before listing all the seasonal stuff. Should I have any bottles left after the pre-sale, they will return to the vault (aka my perfume cabinet - ha ha) and I will list them with the rest of Halloween until they're gone. I feel very sad, because these will never return, and The Saw is Family is one of my personal favorites EVER.

I think that's all the news. If you know anyone who's interested in the pre-sale, do let them know!!!

BOO!!!!!

Lysa

Contest -are you ready?

2011-08-10T13:16:00.001-07:00

It ends in a few hours - I'm preparing to do the drawing! :::drum roll:::

New in the shop.............

2011-08-05T07:53:00.000-07:00

I've started listing the sugar scrubs in the shop. As I'm writing this, there is Maximo, Dessert Absinthe and Absinthe. I'm busy, busy, busy today, by by the evening, I will list Black Jack and Athelia as well. I really love these scrubs.

I've been formulating for Halloween and I'm *really* excited about the new scents. Whee!!!!! I will be making an announcement soon about what to expect for the Halloween season.

The contest ends in 5 days!!!!!!! Be sure and check back to see if you won!

There is a lot happening!

Have a great day, you guys!

Love, Lysa

Ooops, forgot to mention THIS.

2011-07-30T14:22:00.000-07:00

I've come upon a very small (and I mean VERRRRRRRY small) amount of the discontinued fragrance used in The Saw is Family. After this, TSIF will never, ever be seen again. I guess I shouldn't say "never." I mean, there is always a chance I"ll come across this oil again. There's also a chance aliens will land and take me to their planet, where I will become queen. Just sayin.

So I'm planning a "Midnight Madness" sale, which probably will not take place literally at midnight because I like to sleep. :-) I'm working on a date right now and trying like mad to get my hands on maybe a smidge more of this fragrance so I can offer more bottles. It's a last-ditch effort, but one never knows, right?

And did I mention I'll have a few Saucy Jack as well?

Woot!

Scrub a dub dub

2011-07-30T11:15:00.000-07:00

Yep. They're here. Sugar scrubs are by FAR the most requested product, and I've finally done it. I'm waiting on labels, and as soon as they arrive, I'll be listing these in the shop. More likely than not, that will be Tuesday the 2nd.

The scrub pictured is Maximo -A complex and beautiful blend of sweet cocoa, spicy black pepper, earthy patchouli with a heart of vanilla and wood - This scrub is loaded with good for you oils, raw and white sugar, and a pinch of organic ground coffee to aid in exfoliation.

I formulated these scrubs to not be *completely* clean rinsing (if they were, that would kind of defeat the purpose, IMO). Instead, they leave a very slight layer of nourishing oil on the skin. A sheen , if you will. But you won't be greasy. They're emulsifying, so they turn into a nourishing lotion as soon as they come into contact with water.

I am considering a completely clean rinsing scrub - I've done a prototype I'm very pleased with. It's emulsified, rather than emulsifYING, meaning it goes on like a scrubby lotion, has a hint of bubbles, and rinses clean away. It would be offered in addition to the emulsifying scrub. What do you think?

Keep an eye out for these babies. They will be here soon!

Got Milk? (sorry.....I had to say it)

2011-07-21T16:31:00.000-07:00

I'm running around like a crazy person today. As a matter of fact, I'm posting this from my phone, so please forgive any typos or just general weirdness. Wanted to pop in real quick and let you know I've added some milk bath to the shop. It really is amazing, decadent stuff, if I do say so myself (and I do)!!!! I've used three milks, dead sea salt, oatmeal, AND made it fizzy. It's lovely, moisturizing and really good for bothersome skin conditions, too. So there you have it. At present there is Maximo, Absinthe, Dessert Absinthe, Black Jack and Athelia. I took a bath with Absinthe last night and then followed it up with Absinthe lotion. Yum!!! K. Gotta fly. The week is almost over!!!!!

Love, Lysa

Mmm-mm....lotion

2011-07-18T09:10:00.000-07:00

I somehow totally forgot to blog about now having lotion in the shop. Wow. Busy much?

For the time being, I've done 6 scents: Black Jack, Athelia, Maximo, 1891, Dessert Absinthe and Absinthe. It was a hard choice to make, but I decided on the best sellers first. There will definitely be more to come. Unfortunately, I'm not going to be able to do all TMTM scents in lotion form. The labeling alone would KILL me!

Anyway, I really like the lotion! It's not too greasy (something I hate), but it lasts and lasts. And I love the way the scents carry and change a bit in lotion form. The Black Jack especially turns creamier and a bit sweeter. I've been using that one every day.

There will be more bath and body stuff coming soon, so keep an eye out!

Have a great week, everyone!

Love, Lysa

It's that time again. BOO!!!!

2011-07-07T08:06:00.000-07:00

So, although the future of TMTM is in the air, and everything is uncertain, it's still time for the yearly Halloween contest. For those of you that know me, you know Halloween is my Christmas - my most favorite, most important holiday. So we are going to proceed like nothing else is happening, yes?

We're going to do it just like we did last year. For those of you just joining us, here's how it works:

You leave a comment on this post, giving me at least TWO perfumes you would like to see made into reality. They can be horror movies, notorious people, notorious cars (wink), a character from a book or movie, etc. You have to have at least two, but feel free to list as many as you'd like. For example, you say:

"I would really like to see Freddy Kruger, Christine, Dorian Gray, and Elizabeth Bathory."

Upon the deadline, I will write down everyone's name who enters, throw them all in a hat, and pick a winner. That winner will receive a prize from the shop. And the prizes don't suck!!! :-)

There are only a couple rules.

1.) And this is more FYI, really - should your name be the one I choose from the hat, it does not necessarily mean I will choose your suggestion. If Suzie wins the draw, but I like Mary's idea better, I will go with Mary's idea, but Suzie will get the prize. HOWEVER, if I use your idea, you will get a prize, regardless.

2.) Your "notorious people" cannot be serial killers. I myself am not easily offended in the least, but there are a lot of people who are. I would not have an issue doing a Ted Bundy perfume, but there are a lot of people who would have a serious problem with it. It's a fine line, though - last year I did Lizzie Borden AND Jack the Ripper and no one had an issue. Meh. I'd rather just steer clear of at least very RECENT killers.

3.) You can comment as many times as you'd like, but your name will only be entered once.

4.) The deadline is.............................. August 10th.

You ready???? GO!!!!!!!!

Thank you

2011-07-06T12:17:00.000-07:00

You guys are great. I mean, seriously. I'm checking into Artfire, as well as an official website and wordpress shopping cart. I don't want to lose my business. The thought of it is a real soul-killer. I spent last night brainstorming and reading all your thoughtful (and helpful!) comments. I have the best customers and friends on the planet!!!!! Thank you thank you!!!!!!

Possibly some really bad news.

2011-07-05T16:57:00.000-07:00

Well, ladies and gentlemen, unless something pretty drastic happens, TMTM may be no more. I'm just not making it. My Etsy fees are SO unbelievably high, it's actually becoming difficult to pay them each month, in addition to supplies, rent, bills, etc. I tried venturing out before, but the traffic wasn't there and the $20 paid to Big Cartel every month didn't seem worth it anymore. I'm looking into different options. I REALLY don't want to give this up. I'm living my dream. My business is my life. I love my customers. I love what I do. The thought of working a 9 to 5 job kills my soul. But I am really at a loss here. Perhaps wholesale clients are the answer. But where to find them? I can try another "official" website, but have no idea how to drive traffic to it. I'm stunned and shocked and sad. Without this business....well... I just don't know.

So if anyone has any ideas, I'm open to hearing them.

Lysa

The Shop is Full!

2011-06-30T17:06:00.000-07:00

I've added the new lip balms, along with solid scents for Odditoria. The solid scents are meant to either be worn alone or layered with *any* of the Odditoria fragrances to add depth. They smell SO good on their own, too!

New Lip Balms

2011-06-30T10:18:00.000-07:00

I will be adding 5 new lip balms to the shop today - 2 new Harlots and the first ever Odditoria balms.

ODDITORIA -

Sweet Basil and Peppermint
Cherry Licorice
and Vanilla Clove (my favorite)

HARLOT -

Pomegranate Rose, which I have cleverly named Rosey Pom (well, *I* think I'm clever)
and Pear Tart

I have many more ideas, but Halloween is coming and you KNOW how excited I get over that. This year there will be lots of new additions!

Have a great day, everyone!

Ding Dong the Hearse is Dead..........

2011-06-27T17:25:00.000-07:00

Well he's not DEAD necessarily........, It was such a big to-do just to get it home - conflicting schedules with the funeral home mostly. When I was finally able to go get it, it wouldn't start. Battery was dead. They tried and tried to jump it, but to no avail. Alas, I had to wait another day. Bright and early the next morning, I show up and see there's a brand new battery! And it STILL won't start!!!!! *sigh* I had a mechanic friend come out and he is pretty sure it's the fuel pump. Not too big of a deal. I bought the car anyway. After all, I had already named him, so I *could not* leave him sitting there. Also, I knew going in that unless I was ready to spend 50k on a new coach, there were going to be problems. I have enough love for this car to see me through the hard times.

So in 103 degree weather, I wait for the tow truck to take my baby home. I have to tell you, seeing the looks on people's faces at this big ol' coach on a lift made me laugh all the way home.

Poor baby was sooooo dirty when I arrived:

Up up up!!!

Seriously, that is one bad ass windshield. I love how huge it is:

So fresh and so clean. (grin). Home and cleaned up. He looks SO much better!

And Mattie is all ready for bye bye!

The funeral home felt really bad about the car not running and knocked enough money off that I can get the fuel pump fixed! Yay!!!

My mechanic is coming over tomorrow to drop the gas tank and hopefully fix it, so there's a really good chance Romero will be on the road tomorrow (after new tires, of course). Wish me luck! And I want to thank everyone who helped me make my dream a reality. I am totally and completely in love with my car! Thank you!!!!

Love, Lysa

Sale Ending

2011-06-15T17:38:00.000-07:00

Sale ends at 7:30pm PST tonight. I want to thank everyone for showing support for my shop (and my car). You guys are so awesome, I'm kind of at a loss for words. Thank you!!!! I will post photos of my car when I pick him up on Monday! (Named him Romero, by the way) :-)

Kisses!!!!

Lysa

HUGE sale - seriously

2011-06-14T08:32:00.000-07:00

This is probably the biggest sale I've ever had. It will be limited, so if you want to hop on, get to the shop. I am determined to get this big ol car in my driveway (and also on the road). K, here we go:

Buy one regular size perfume, get 3 Odditoria postcards and 3 free samples

Buy two regular size perfumes, get 1 full size perfume free, PLUS 3 free samples

Buy three regular size perfumes, get 1 free PLUS 5 free samples PLUS 3 Odditoria postcards

Buy four regular size perfumes, get 2 full size perfumes free PLUS 5 samples PLUS 5 Odditoria postcards

Buy three lip balms or solid perfumes, get one free PLUS 3 free perfume samples

Buy 4 lip balms or solid perfumes, get two free PLUS 3 free perfume samples

OR

Use code FREESHIP at checkout for free shipping

OR

Use code HEARSE at checkout for 20% your entire order.

Sorry, but if you do the BOGO offers (which can be combined), you won't be able to do the promo coupons. That would be madness! :-)

Love you guys!

Moving, formulating, ink madness, and putting the "fun" back in funeral.

2011-06-12T10:13:00.000-07:00

Hi guys! Soooo much happening in my life right now, which is the reason I've been inactive on my blog. Facebook is so much easier for me, partly because I have an app on my phone, so it's totally mobile. But I promise I will try to be more active blogging. :-)

Time has run out on my current living situation. When I moved back to California (ack), I moved into my uncle's house. He currently lives in New York and we decided it would be a good deal for both of us - he has someone to watch the house, and I have someplace to live. Unfortunately, my run here is done, so I will be moving YET AGAIN. This mobile lifestyle is *not* for me. I need a good couple years of not hauling my stuff around. That would be lovely, thank you. At least this time I'm not moving to another state, merely across town. And the move will be much more relaxed. Although I must be physically out of the house by the end of the month, I've got an additional month to clear out my belongings, and do the final cleaning. That is MUCH better for me. Most importantly, it means I don't have to close my shop while it's going on. I will be tired, but it's definitely do-able.

I've begun formulating for Halloween. I know it seems early, but I have much work ahead of me. I will be having the usual contest to name the perfumes. Stay tuned.

I've also been on a tattooing rampage. I'm sure there is some psychology behind that, but we won't go into it. :-) Mostly, it's just my collecting on favors owed by my tattoo artist friends. I've started the sleeve on my right arm, which is going to be all toys. So far I have a kewpie doll, a rabbit jack in the box, and tomorrow I'm getting a wind-up car - a hearse to be exact.

And speaking of funeral vehicles - I have FINALLY, after *25 years* found my dream hearse. I'm so excited, I'm literally beside myself. He's white right now, but will be painted as soon as I get past all the legal stuff.... change of title, registration, emissions testing, etc. I will probably have to have a MAJOR sale in the shop to cover all this stuff. Let me tell ya, it's not going to be cheap. But he is so worth it. Should I decide to have a sale, I will most definitely post it here. So you wanna see my new baby?

I pick him up on the 20th. Please, please let these 9 days pass quickly.

Have a great remainder of the weekend everyone!!!

SALE SALE SALE

2011-04-28T09:06:00.000-07:00

I'm having a sale in the shop. Both Odditoria (which now resides @ TMTM) and The Morbid The Merrier perfumes are BUY 2 full size and get one FREE. A common question about this offer is "But what if I buy 4?" If you buy 4, you get 2 free. If you buy 6, you get 3 free. Yay!!!! So if you want to take advantage of the new spring scents, get thee to the shop and get them for free!

K. That's all. :-)

NEW PERFUMES!

2011-04-22T14:33:00.001-07:00

Ahem- they're in the shop. :-)

Wow - long time no see............

2011-04-21T15:43:00.000-07:00

I've been busy. Really busy. Just wanted to share something I've been working on. I'm doing some assemblage art again after many years. I forgot how therapeutic it is. I want to do an entire series of toys, but with my spin on them. :-) I have so many things coming in the mail right now, you have no idea. So any ideas you guys have, let me know. I'm starting work on a robot soon. So here's three I've done:

Old camera love........... I'm calling it The All Seeing Eye

Pull toy - "Chariot"

She's not an actual music box, but reminds me of one:

I HAVE NOT forgotten there were supposed to be new perfumes in the shop. I'm waiting on labels. 3 new Odditoria scents are coming, and 2 TMTM. Yay!

Relay For Life, Curry Chicken, and New Perfume

2011-03-23T18:22:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!

So I joined Weight Watchers. Before leaving Oregon, I gained about 25 pounds. I was already upset about that, and then after Mom died, another 20. Wow, really? 45 pounds? I am BEYOND thrilled with the new Points Plus program, for so many reasons I won't bore you with here. But what it's done, in a nutshell, is made me focus more on nutrition and less on "dieting." I have eaten SO many vegetables, you guys. Seriously. And, as an added bonus, I've lost 10 pounds in 2 weeks. Can I get a heck yeah?? The biggest challenge has been the aversion I have to cooking. Last time I did WW, I lost a lot of weight, but found I was eating only pre-packaged food. Soooo boring. I find now, due to the changes in the program, I'm forced to be more creative and it's actually fun! I look forward to planning dinner every night. Can you believe that? So tonight I made something I thought was so especially yummy, I wanted to share. The photo was taken with the intention of only sending it to my best friend, not posting on my blog, so ya know.... it's not the greatest. Also, be advised I am in NO way a recipe writer and tend to just throw things together. :-)

CURRY CHICKEN - serves 2

1 chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
1/2 cup brown rice ( =1 cup cooked)
10-15 asparagus spears
4 cups cauliflower (or more, or less - ya know)
1 TBS ginger root, minced
5 cloves garlic, minced
2 TSP curry powder
1 TSP cumin
1 TSP celery seed
1/2 large onion, diced
1/4 c. cilantro
1 lemon
2 TSP olive oil
1 c chicken broth, 99% fat free
salt and pepper to taste

Cook rice, set aside.

Over medium heat, saute onion, ginger, and garlic in olive oil until onions are translucent. Add chicken, asparagus, cumin, celery seed, and curry powder and saute until chicken is cooked through. Add cauliflower and 1/4 c of the chicken broth. Stir until cauliflower is coated in curry mixture. Increase heat to HIGH and continue to cook until liquid is nearly gone. Add 1/4 c more of the broth and repeat until liquid is nearly gone. Add remainder of broth, reduce heat to medium and cook for an additional 1 minute.

Divide rice into 2 bowls and top with curry chicken. Squeeze the juice of 1 lemon between the two bowls and top with chopped cilantro.

Oh.....my.....goodness. Seriously, you guys. Cheap, easy and totally lovely. WW value: 8

-------------------------------------------------------------------

On April 30th, I am doing the American Cancer Society's Relay For Life in honor of my mom. As most of you know, I lost my mom in December to cancer. I want to do my part to give more birthdays to people diagnosed with this horrible disease. I will be raising money from now until the relay. If you would like to donate to the cause, my paypal email address is themerrymorbid@gmail.com. Make sure and indicate AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY so I don't get confused.

-------------------------------------------------------------------

New perfumes are hitting the shop very, very soon, and part o the proceeds of everything sold (old and new) will be given to the American Cancer Society the day of my relay. I will keep everyone posted on how much I have raised.

Love you guys! Take care!

SPEECHLESS

2011-03-17T10:40:00.001-07:00

I got this feedback today, and although I THINK I know who wrote it, I can't be sure. I have never EVER gotten anything like this and I am sitting here utterly speechless.

"I adore Lysa. The truth is, I will support her even if her products suck so it's a great thing for me, indeed for us all that her creations are every bit as wonderful as she is! :) Besides her immense talent, she works really hard and it shows. Every aspect of her shop is amazing and it sometimes boggles my mind to think that everything we see is done by just one woman. From the branding, design, blending, product description and photography etc right down to the packaging and shipping, it's all down to the work of just two hands. She pours her heart and soul into her work and it shows. I'm so glad I discovered her shop! It was a real eye-opener. She opened the door to indie companies for me. For example, I am in love with this set of perfumes. The descriptions are spot-on. The Lust Trio encapsulates all the reasons why I love indie perfumes. Each one is precious and unique. These are definitely NOT half-assed, blandly crowd-pleasing nondescript department store scents. They are not afraid to be different and they all tell a different tale. I didn't use to know perfumes could do that. I sincerely hope that these ones stick around permanently. The same goes for the rest of the Valentine collection. Two thumbs way up!"

It's been a while.

2011-03-17T07:12:00.000-07:00

A few things....

Yesterday I hit 4000 sales over at TMTM. I am really happy about that. I remember starting out and waiting for that FIRST sale to come in! I'm having a few sales at both Odditoria and TMTM. Both shops are Buy Three Solids and Get One Free, both shops are Free Shipping on Orders of $50 or More (code FREESHIP at checkout) and both shops are Buy Two Full Size Perumes Get One Free. I know people are waiting for Moira and Agatha to hit Odditoria and I will do that today! I will also be introducing a few new perfumes (which I'll announce here). I just have to get the labeling done and printed. So much to do!

For those that know me or are friends with me on Facebook, you know Ive been messing around with iPhone photography. Back in the day, I used to shoot with a lot of toy cameras and use a lot of alternative processing in ye olde darkroom, so I thought this might be a fun outlet. I do miss photography. Anyhoo, thought I'd share a few of the photos. If you're so inclined, head over to my Facebook or Flickr to see more. I'm not sure how include a link to either, buy my user name is lysaluna for both. :-)

Here are a few:

I can scarcely believe I'm saying this.

2011-03-06T13:17:00.000-08:00

Both TMTM and Odditoria have ZERO outstanding orders as of right now.

----------------ZERO-----------------

I have worked like crazy after the supply snafu and tomorrow's mailings, which includes all the backordered stuff, is sitting by the front door for tomorrow's mail. I seriously cannot remember the last time I had zero orders outstanding. It's crazy and I am proud of myself. I get to hang out with my kid for the rest of the day!!!! YAY!!!

I even got to change my turnaround time.

Wow.

Oh, the irony........

2011-03-04T08:50:00.000-08:00

So my supplies finally came in. I got up at 5:00am to start work, with BIG plans to get all outstanding orders out. Go to print shipping labels, and Paypal isn't working. Call Paypal tech support and they tell me to clear my cache and cookies, restart my computer, and try again. All that done, still not working. I try Internet Explorer (usually use Firefox)...still no dice. So I update my Flash player, my Java, download the latest version of both IE and Firefox, restart the computer about 7 times.... nothing. Call tech suppport again and find out they're having technical difficulties. No idea when the site will be back up again. So I'm sitting here with a bunch of outstanding orders and no way to fill them. Seriously, why today of all days?

UGH - finally

2011-03-03T12:07:00.000-08:00

Part of my supplies came in today. I'm working like heck to fill orders I can. I'm expecting the rest of them tonight, so tomorrow things should start getting back to normal (after I catch up).

TAT

2011-02-28T11:19:00.000-08:00

I'm really pretty angry right now, but I will try not to be as nasty as I want to be.

I've been doing this for a while. I know how things work. when I am beginning to run out of supplies, I know how much time I have to get it ordered and delivered to me before I totally run out. Lately, this little formula of mine has been turned on its ear. 3 (yes 3) of my suppliers have decided getting things out just isn't very important, apparently. As a result, I am completely out of some really MAJOR supplies, which has now pushed my turnaround time to a week. I have so many outstanding orders right now, that when the supplies do come in, I will be looking at pulling at least one all-nighter to catch up.

I had to do something I hate doing today, which is email a bunch of people and tell them their orders are going to be late. I'm really frustrated, and wanted to give everyone a heads-up. If you're still waiting for your order, this is why.

I'm really sorry.

A Sale and New Stuff

2011-02-12T08:36:00.000-08:00

I'm having a sale in both shops today. Over at The Morbid The Merrier, it's buy two 5ml perfumes, get one free. At Odditoria, it's buy two perfumes, get one free, and buy two postcards, get one free. Sale ends tonight.

There are going to be a few new additions to the postcards (after I get the files to the printer, that is). Here they are:

Have a great weekend everyone!

Love, Lysa

ODDITORIA

2011-02-07T14:56:00.000-08:00

Well, it's up an running - somewhat. I will be dding product all night tonight. Zzzz...... I'm already tired.

http://www.odditoria.etsy.com

And here's Isabella - my dark horse. I've had really amazing feedback from the samples I've sent out. Really surprised, and it's not my usual dark scent. I love it when that happens!

Okay, you asked for it......

2011-01-28T15:55:00.000-08:00

One more time - WOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!

Okay, it's out of my system now.

so the announcement is this...............

I'm opening a sister store!! This has been something on my mind for a while now. While I LOVE and adore TMTM, sometimes I feel there are things I want to do that just don't "fit" over there. I'm in the process of getting the branding done, getting everything printed up, and getting all the merchandise up and ready to go. This shop will be quite a bit different from TMTM. I'll be selling ephemera, bone jewelry, vintage odd things I come across, perfumes, postcards, art prints, and more! I'm really excited about it, actually. Scared, too, because it's a HUGE endeavor. I like the look of the new shop quite a lot - it's got sort of a creepy elegance.

So, wanna peek?

I present to you................ODDITORIA.

The new shop is located @ odditoria.etsy.com. I will post here when I get it up and running.

Soooooo....................................?

Ooooh, baby I love your way.........

2011-01-27T09:20:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I have some news.

......but we're going to pretend we're at, let's say, a Peter Frampton concert. I say "Are you guys ready for some big news???" (in my best rock star voice, of course).....

And you say "YEEEEAAAAAHHHH ---- WHOO!!!!!!"

[ gotta build up the excitement ]

Go!

Whaddya think?

2011-01-24T20:17:00.000-08:00

I've got big plans, ladies and gentlemen..............

AWE INSPRING creativity.

2011-01-20T12:15:00.000-08:00

I ran across this shop while looking for a birthday gift for a friend. I am so impressed by the sheer creativity in this shop. I'm in a bit of a rush today, but couldn't run out without giving you guys a heads up. Who woulda thought a NERF gun could end up looking like this?

Their shop is here.

A bit late.

2011-01-17T05:00:00.000-08:00

Added the perfumes to the shop last night. I'm doing a MAJOR overhaul, which is going to take at least a week. Here are some photos of the new gift sets, eau de parfum, etc. I'm soooooo tired.

The hazards of working at home

2011-01-13T08:57:00.000-08:00

I know I'm very lucky I was able to quit my day job and make a living doing something I love. There's nothing better than being the master of your destiny. But over the past year, I've discovered some things, and here's one of them....

I'm never....EVER....dressed. I spend my entire life in pajama pants now. I like to refer to them as "loungy" pants so I don't feel quite so bad about myself.I also tell myself my "loungy" pants are much more practical, since I work with so many oils and messy things. But the truth is, it's just me here all day and I don't WANNA get dressed. Also, so I don't feel quite so bad, I've acquired quite a collection....I've got zebra and leopard and yoga pants and some velvet-like material that's quite luxurious. I've got long ones and capris and... well, you get the point. My dresser is crammed with these things. Closing the drawers has become a challenge. But it's gotten so bad that if I'm called to the school for a meeting or have to actually go out in public, I actually get ANNOYED at having to put on regular clothes. I was thinking about this as I was getting out of the shower this morning and preparing to put on yet *another* pair. If it were only the pants, it might not be so bad. But couple that with the fact my hair is always in a pony-tail (I tell myself that's ok too, because I need to have my hair up for work) and I never, ever wear makeup anymore....well..... there's a problem. So I've made a resolution.

I will get dressed in the morning.

To most people this may seem odd -- getting dressed is now a *RESOLUTION*???? But seriously... I've fallen into the "work-at-home" trap. I was going to add "I will put on makeup every day" but this is all about baby steps.

So wish me luck, people. When I reach for my beloved loungy pants in the morning, be there with me in spirit to say, "This is NOT acceptable behavior!"

Together we can do this.

Love, Lysa

I need opinions, please.

2011-01-09T10:04:00.000-08:00

Tell me...... what do you think of my offering 1oz spray perfumes? I'm thinking the alcohol might be a problem for people. BUT the scent goes further and lasts longer. Hmmm... They would, of course, be offered alongside my usual 5ml oils.

I would like to know what you guys think.

Valentine perfumes without labels - here are the descriptions:

2011-01-06T14:14:00.000-08:00

Hasta la Muerte:
The innocence of lily and carnation, sweetened with vanilla absolute, smashed and marred by an undercurrent of heartless black spice.

Paramour:
Oh, romance. Or something like it. A dozen red roses, spilled wine, a hint of blood, and gunsmoke.

El Corazon:
Like the heart, fickle and a bit deceptive. A heavy, dark, smoky scent with a taunting core of sweetness.

In the Shop

2011-01-06T11:50:00.000-08:00

Well, as soon as I can get over there and list them..............and I will say it again - PLEASE forgive the photography. I'm resorting to using my phone because my camera has bitten the dust. Argh.

This is a sampling of the Valentine's Day stuff. There is more to come. 5 new lip balms and 4 additional perfumes. Waiting on my printer to get the label stuff squared away.

First, the LUST trio.

Lust #1 - Histoire du Secretaire:
mile-high leather pumps, skin tight wool pencil skirt, stacks of filing paper, steaming black coffee, a mahogany desk and a hint of musky perfume.

Lust #2 - Histoire des Amoureux:
A little Eden, a little de Sade. leather, juicy red apple, a serpent slither of pepper and spice, green grass, and sweat.

Lust #3 - Histoire du Professeur:
leather arm chair, starched white cotton shirt, dusty books, a memory of sweet pipe smoke and a faint whiff of brandy kept hidden in a desk drawer.

Leather, to me anyway, has got to be the most sexy, animalistic, and utterly sensual scents in the world. One sniff, especially once warmed on the skin, and I'm done for. But that's just me. :-)

On to the jewelry:

More to come!!!

Okay, one more..........

2011-01-05T09:45:00.000-08:00

Valentine's Jewelry Sneak Peek

2011-01-05T09:21:00.000-08:00

I decided if there is any time to introduce jewelry into the shop, V-Day would be it. This is a preview of one of the necklaces. Forgive the picture quality. They were taken on my Android, as my regular camera has decided it doesn't want to work properly. This one is a combination of new and found components, as well as fish vertebrae. Therefore, sadly, it isn't suitable for vegetarians or vegans. :-( I'm actually really in love with this necklace, and have toyed with the idea of keeping it for myself. I shant, though. I forgot how much I enjoy making jewelry.... it's been years since I've done it! Yay! I've also got quite a few new perfumes hitting the shop, so look out for those, too. Ok, on to the necklace.......

I did something stupid.

2010-12-20T14:01:00.000-08:00

I need a TV for my bedroom. Unfortunately, I left my other one in Portland (dumb, dumb, dumb). So this morning I'm browsing craigslist, and find a Sony 36" for $30. Uhhh.....YEAH. I call the lady, who's amazingly nice, and make arrangements to go pick it up. She tells me "It's super heavy, so you will need at least one more person to help you move it." I'm thinking "I got this." My dad and I have become experts at moving furniture and such, so I'm thinking no problem. We drive out there, the TV is beautiful, yadda yadda yadda. Then we try to pick it up.

Holy crap.

I have never EVER EVER felt a TV this heavy. Never in my life. I mean, it's got to weigh 200 pounds. But because my dad and I are both too full of pride to ask for the money back and leave it where it sits, we *finally* manage to get it down off the entertainment center, onto a furniture dolly, and up (my god) into the back of my suv. That's where it still sits. Because once we were sitting in the car driving home, we both realized our backs didn't feel very good. Not good at all, actually.

So there's now an ad on craigslist for a 36" television that's stuck in the back of an SUV. Except I upped the price $10 so I can go buy Tylenol.

*sigh*

Obscura Antiques and Chili

2010-12-17T16:28:00.000-08:00

I have a little cold. Just what I need. BUT as I was lying on the couch flipping through channels, I came across a gift, a godsend, an AMAZING piece of television that I have to share with you all. The show is called "Oddities" and it's all about this phenomenal store call "Obscura Antiques" out of NYC. I suppose it's better I'm on the other side of the country because I would be like a kid in a candy store - there would be no money left for rent or any other pesky bills. I would be living as a squatter in some abandoned warehouse surrounded by ventriloquist dummies, insects, bones, and taxidermy. Now that I mention it, doesn't seem so bad......... Anyway, please go visit their website and blog..... and don't forget to watch the show every Wednesday night @ 9pm on the Science Channel!!!

Obscura Antiques website
Obscura Antiques Blog

I want.....nay, NEED....to make some chili. I'm really tired of my recipe. Do any of you have one you'd like to share? It would be much appreciated!!!

That's all for now. I'm not quite back to myself. Maybe after these holidays are over, I can get back to normal life and begin to heal.

Love, Lysa

THANK YOU

2010-12-12T12:53:00.000-08:00

I just want to thank everyone for the love and support you've given me. I could not have made it through the last few weeks without it. I feel really fortunate and blessed to have you all in my life.

Now if I could only concentrate and quit screwing up, I'd be golden!

If you'd like to sign the guestbook for my mom, you can do that here

Debra Ann 1952-2010

2010-12-07T17:40:00.000-08:00

My mom lost her battle with cancer today. She was surrounded by all of us who love her, and I hope she knew that and felt our love surround her. I am in shock still and waiting for the hurt and sadness to hit me like a ton of bricks.

Thank you to everyone for your kind words, phone calls, emails, and comments. Although this turmoil has weeded out the useless, it has also shown who is truly there for me and who truly loves me. I am very lucky.

For everyone local reading this: At mom's request, we will not be having a funeral. She asked that we have people over to the house, just to hang out, eat some food, and say nice things about her ( for ONCE, she said!). She said she wanted a casual thing where people could come in their slippers if they so wished. I scoured the house last night for her "get well" cookie recipe, and they will be my contribution.

And I don't mean to offend anyone, but my mom's last words before she slipped into a coma were, "This fucking sucks."

My sweet, sweet mama...... I couldn't agree with you more.

Be well, everyone.

Love, Lysa

THE ONE-TWO PUNCH

2010-12-02T09:10:00.000-08:00

I don't like to write about things that are TOO personal. I try to separate business and my personal life (aside from my posts about thrift store finds, etc). But at this point, I feel I owe everyone an explanation.

As most of you know, I had to pick up and move from Portland rather quickly. Let's just say that was a bad situation that is now in my past, where it will stay. But although it's in my past, it put a rather large dent in my business.... one I hope goes away at some point.

Unfortunately, right after moving to California, my mom was diagnosed with cancer. She is now losing the battle. We received some very bad news yesterday.... news I won't go into here. We as a family are facing some extraordinarily tough times ahead.

My mind has been so scattered - I go back and forth between anger, and the ever-present "Why US??" all while trying to maintain my business. Quite honestly, if it weren't for medical and everyday bills, I would probably close up shop completely right now. I must go on, though. I have a beautiful child to provide for and a house to maintain. The struggle is choosing to go on with life and be that provider, or stick close to my mom and let everything else fall my the wayside. I could not feel like LESS of an adult right now.

I'm struggling more than I can tell you. The thought of losing my mom - although inevitable - is unfathomable to me. I simply cannot imagine it. She is too young, too kind, and just way too awesome for this. She's my best friend.

Many of you have become my friends, and that is why I feel I must be honest about my situation. I'm finding it increasingly difficult to hide it.

Thank you for being there for me during the last few months. My life has been a whirlwind of drama, upset, and heartbreak. I've learned a lot about people and I've found strength I didn't know I had. I will be relying on that strength to get me through the next few months.

I will be working. It gets me through the pain and enables me to pay these ever-increasing bills.

Again, thank you for being a part of my life. My days are better because of it.

Love, Lysa

The tattoo I got for Mom

BLACK FRIDAY

2010-11-24T22:51:00.000-08:00

I sent out the newsletter - I hope you all get it okay!!! I forgot to mention, however, Black Friday starts NOW. Today. Right away. :-) I will be removing the coupon code at 11:59pm on Saturday.

Have a happy and safe holiday!!!!

ALLEGORY!!

2010-11-19T09:57:00.000-08:00

The Christmas lip balms are on the website. I'm excited about Allegory. They are flavors I've wanted to do for a while. The Spiced Pear is sooooooooo good. :-)

Sugar Baby

2010-11-18T15:28:00.000-08:00

I am putting the new line of kids lip balms on the website as we speak - of course they're not strictly for kids (grape is my favorite lip balm flavor EVER). And they're definitely kid approved.... Bella, my junior alchemist, helped me come up with all the flavors and the label design. Here's a preview. Should be in the shop within the half hour!

2010-11-17T20:44:00.000-08:00

I'm trying the newsletter thing. :-)

Anyone interested, head over here.

Yay!!

Pain as Therapy

2010-11-17T19:15:00.000-08:00

OFFICIAL

2010-11-14T17:44:00.000-08:00

Okay, I've gotten everything out of the Etsy shop and into the official site. It's soooo much easier to navigate, and the great thing is, I never run out of anything! Stock is immediately replenished, so there's no waiting for me to relist. Uhhh....awesome. I am hoping business picks up over there, though - not sure how to advertise. Hmmmm.........

On another note, I've been doing a lot of Android photography. I LOVE my phone. I've decided to put together a book for my mom while she's in the hospital.. photos of her garden, which is pretty close to the top of important things in her world. Here are a few of the photos going in the book:

And here are some photos of my bath the other night. Heh. You may recognize Haunt and Product Body!

Moving - not physically this time

2010-11-10T13:00:00.000-08:00

Hi guys. I'm moving everything over to the retail site - themorbidthemerrier.com

In the process right now. The Etsy will point everyone in that direction. I think it will be better for everyone.

Thanks!!!

4 NEW

2010-11-08T18:15:00.001-08:00

4 new perfumes in the shop. More tomorrow. It's been a loooooong day.

SNEAK PEEK

2010-11-07T13:56:00.000-08:00

Ok - here are a few of the new perfumes....more to come. Went and got the new memory card, then the camera battery died. Grrrr................

And here's the new lip balm:

Let me know what you think!

We hardly knew ye............

2010-11-07T11:53:00.000-08:00

Halloween is gone today. Saucy Jack and The Saw is Family are no more.....ever. I feel really sad about that.

However............. Christmas enters the shop today. A few of them, anyway. As usual, more will be added daily (hopefully) until stock is complete. I'm on my way to Best Buy right now to buy a new memory card. I somehow lost mine in the move and there shall be no product photography until then. :-( I'm telling myself I'm in NO WAY going to look at the Sony blu ray player they have there. You know, the one that will allow me to use my Android as a remote control? I would never do that.

I'm pretty excited. I'm LOVING the new perfumes! And there will be a whole bunch of new lip balms!!!

Stay tuned!!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, Miss Bella Luna

2010-10-29T09:17:00.000-07:00

Today is my sweet baby girl's birthday. I can't believe it's been nine years since I first looked into her little face and realized I'd been given the greatest gift I would ever receive. It seems like yesterday.

I'm busy in the kitchen today - she is demanding a three layer cake, each layer decorated differently. My goodness. I'm glad she thinks I can do anything, but this is a challenge for sure!!!

Feliz Cumpleaños, Sugar Baby. I love you more than anything.

Colossal Screw Up

2010-10-25T15:58:00.000-07:00

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...that's me.

I don't want everyone mad at me. I've had a lot happening (moving out of state SUCKS, in case you didn't know...).

I'm totally on track now, but cleaning up my messes from *before* I loaded the Uhaul.

*sigh*

THE SHOP IS OPEN

2010-10-22T08:02:00.000-07:00

Hi. Shop is open. My stock is really low right now while I prepare for Xmas. I have a *really* low supply on the GEIST lip balms....what's listed is what's there. I am working on getting the Christmas stuff ready to go, so the shop will be filling up soon. This move really depleted not only my products, but my energy!!! I'm sure everything will be changing pretty much daily as I move stuff around, add, and remove products.

Halloween perfumes will be continued until November 7th.

What do you guys think about extending the Sleepy Hollow perfumes through Xmas?

21 October, 2010

2010-10-21T07:02:00.001-07:00

Hi everyone.

I made it safely to California and will try to open the shop up this weekend. Saturday, to be exact. I'm starting to set up the studio today, so we'll see how unpacking and organizing goes.

Thanks for your patience and I'll see you soon.

Lysa

UPDATE

2010-10-15T07:10:00.000-07:00

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Not a very exciting update, I'm afraid. Got all my outstanding orders shipped. I'm asking anyone with order problems to please contact me directly to straighten anything out. I am VERY accommodating, and a resolution can always be reached. I think I feel a complete loss of control right now with my shop closed and just want to make sure everyone is taken care of.

I'm thinking the shop re-opening will not be November 1st, but a bit sooner. But that's what I'm THINKING - not necessarily what will be reality.

I was battling with my insomnia last night and thinking about how incredible lucky I am to have people who care about me. I've met some truly incredible people through TMTM -- customers, blog readers, fellow soapers and perfumers who I feel have become friends.... These days, that is one incredibly special thing. The internet, with all its faults, at least has the power to make people feel a little less alone. Priceless, right?

Thank you.
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SHOP CLOSURE

2010-10-12T13:48:00.000-07:00

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It sucks.

It was unexpected.

I will be reopening around November 1st (hopefully a wee bit sooner) and will have lots of surprises for you. I ask everyone to please be patient and understanding and I promise to update this blog every chance I get.

As mentioned on my shop page, all Halloween scents will be continued for an extra couple weeks to give people a chance to get stocked up. It's only fair since I'm closing a couple weeks early. I have some pretty awesome Xmas scents lined up, too, AND my anniversary perfume.

Please stay tuned everyone.

2010-10-06T08:46:00.000-07:00

It's so hard to concentrate sometimes when my "guard dogs" are barking their fool heads off all day. They sit here and wait for someone..... ANYONE..... to walk by so they can show them who's boss.

Notice how they're both looking in different directions. It's like they said to each other, "Okay, you take THIS part of the street and I'll take THAT part of the street"

*sigh*

Guess what I got?? BLACK oval lip balm tubes. Ohhh yeeeeaaaahh........ All the Xmas packaging is going to be black. I'm SO excited!!!!

Okay, back to work...

2010-10-05T19:21:00.000-07:00

Sorry for belated responses... life has been hectic (to say the least).

Thank you everyone for birthday wishes. I needed them so much and you all made me feel very, very special.

Rock on.

I've not been able to get candles in the shop yet. I've got all the supplies, but NO TIME!!!! ARGH!!! I'm working diligently, though... soon! I've had other people tell me lately they've been putting my oils on light bulbs and such. How awesome is that??

Stay tuned -- I SWEAR they're coming!!!

~Lysa

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME

2010-10-04T08:27:00.001-07:00

Just had to put it out there. I'm such a big baby. :-)

Everyone cross your fingers I make it to 3000 sales today - that would be the best birthday present EVER!!!

I hope you all are having a fantastic day!!!!

Psssst........ Guess what??

2010-09-29T13:10:00.000-07:00

I'm making candles now.

They're 100% soy, so the burn time is pretty extraordinary. Should be in the shop by the weekend. I LOVE candles - burn them every single day of my life, so this seemed like a natural progression and I'm wondering why I didn't do it sooner.

I got a birthday gift in the mail today from one of my best friends. She's an amazing artist and I'm so lucky to receive gifts like these. It's a bowl, but I think I'm going to fill it full of wax so I can have my own candle. You can see her work at www.troutybean.com.

Oh, almost forgot - October 24th marks the one year anniversary of my shop opening and I will be releasing a limited perfume to commemorate. More info about that coming soon. :-)

Business in the front, party in the back

2010-09-26T10:23:00.000-07:00

Hi!

I put 5 new soaps in the shop yesterday. I've been kind of stuck in limbo because my Photoshop pooped on me, but I'm up and running now. I now have CS4 installed on 2 computers and I'm good to go! So yeah... 5 soaps that are, unfortunately, in limited supply (I never make enough).

I'm formulating Xmas soaps now, and will begin making them next week. I've had a lot of requests for really minty, fresh - you know, the kind of soap that gives you a little *zing* when you use it. So I've decided that will be the first one, called (appropriately enough) Ebenezer. Icy cold with a teeny-tiny warm heart. :-)

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Okay - business out of the way.... I'm probably SO late on this one, but.....

I LOVE Tool and I LOVE Queen, so when I saw this, I almost died:

Tool - Bohemian Rhapsody

Tool was, by far, the best concert I've ever been to.It was years and years ago, and I still remember it so vividly. I was mesmerized the entire time.

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It's overcast and raining here. Sooooo beautiful and relaxing. Good online shopping weather. Here are a few things I'm lusting over:

Basilisk Earrings - Sweet Clandestine - I highly recommend this shop. She is making a pair of custom earrings for me and she's super nice AND affordable!

Tableau Noir Victorian Goth Broken Heart Necklace by MataHariJewelry

MarieClaire beaded embroidered cuff by AnotherCountry

Lady of Versailles Choker by LouiseBlack

Any other shopping suggestions? Let's go spend money. I call it "stimulating the economy" so I don't feel so bad. *wink*

IN AWE

2010-09-23T20:50:00.000-07:00

I would be hard pressed to pick a favorite artist.

Having said that, Scott Radke ranks up there among the highest. His work gives me butterflies in my tummy and an ache in my heart. Amazingly beautiful imagery that I NEVER get tired of looking at. Some of his sculpture is below, but please visit his web site (scottradke.com) and support what he does.

$#!@ technology!!!!

2010-09-23T06:10:00.000-07:00

The computer that has my Photoshop program on it is acting up, and it's putting the kibash on a *whole lotta* stuff. I have a bunch of soaps that need to get in the shop, but need to be photographed first, and labels that need to be made. ARGH!!!! I need to either buy another KVM switch, or find someone who has a version of Photoshop I can buy. So...... if any of you have a lead on Photoshop, you know where to find me. :-)

I'm planning Xmas right now, and I think there's going to be some exciting things coming. I've formulated a couple new scents that are...wow. Autumn and Winter are my favorite months, especially for smell-goods.

Very soon I'm going to be cleaning out the shop. Some of the perfumes are going bye-bye - have to make room for new stuff. I'll be listing the discontinued items on the blog as soon as I get it all figured out. I'll have a very limited supply of these scents, and when they're gone, they're gone!

Off to work now!!!

Picture fun:

2010-09-21T13:58:00.000-07:00

Going through the hard drive today and found a bunch of photos I forgot about. I love it when that happens!

Ruthless and toothless. God, that was along time ago.

Night vision is fun!!!

We sort of poured gasoline on the pumpkins last year.

Aftermath. :-(

Me again - ultra pose. LAME.

A poster I did for an indie film festival

More artwork

A fake movie poster I did. I thought it was heee-larious.

Kissy Face

New soap, healing, and a bloody good time

2010-09-17T06:40:00.000-07:00

Hi people!! :-)

I've been gone for a bit because school started and it's made me BUSY!!! Bella has decided homework is something she can't *possibly* fit into her busy schedule, so that's been a constant struggle - we even had to drive to the school yesterday afternoon because she "forgot" it in her locker. Mmm-hmmm.

But I'm healing well! Yay! I'm not using crutches anymore - just kind of hobbling around. But at least I'm able to do things for myself now, take care of my business, and no longer have to do the butt-shuffle down the stairs to the studio! Boy is THAT a relief! I have an appointment with a foot specialist on the 22nd, and I'm hoping he tells me I can remove the cast. I need everyone to cross their fingers for me...also that he doesn't want to do a bunch of tests.... I'm uninsured.

Spending a lot of time lying in bed has gotten me addicted to True Blood. God, first Dexter, now this. Funny thing is, the whole time I'm watching it, I'm thinking "This is the worst show EVER. Why am I watching it??" But as soon as one episode is over, I play the next one. Good thing there's only 3 episodes left. And let me tell you, Bon Temps is one drama-filled place!

I'm hopefully listing new soaps in the shop today. If not today, then definitely this weekend.

Is anyone else chomping at the bit for Halloween to get here??

Update on shop reopening

2010-09-04T15:08:00.000-07:00

Hi guys! Well, one more trip to the hospital later, and I was fitted with this super fly boot. Let me tell you, this thing has changed my life! My mobility is so much better. Still pain, still swelling that made even the nurse at the hospital cringe, but I'm moving SO much better..... I am getting all outstanding orders out this weekend, so I will be able to re-open the shop tomorrow. I'm flying out to get Bella on Monday, but we will be back early Wednesday and I'm going to begin work immediately. Back to normal. That's a VERY good thing.

Here's the Wonder Boot. Don't be jealous.

CHANGES - FRUSTRATION - EXCITEMENT

2010-09-01T10:50:00.000-07:00

I leave to get Bella on Monday. Getting through the airport is going to be interesting. Portland airport is big, but LAX is HUGE. Everyone's telling me I should take advantage of their wheelchair service. Although
I don't really want to, I don't think there's going to be a choice. I can't see myself maneuvering these crutches through a crowd of people all the way to my gate. And the thought of seeing my baby girl motivates me to do whatever it takes to get there!! She told me the other night "Mommy, I can't wait to see your face." Oh my god I CAN'T STAND IT!!! So yeah, I'll be leaving Monday morning at 6:00am and returning Wednesday afternoon at 3:30 - with my girl by my side! Yes!

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So I keep getting these emails from customers who've not received their packages. Hmmm...... funny so many packages should get "lost." I know now there's definitely someone at the post office who's stealing. I've started doing delivery confirmation on everything I send, and MAGICALLY everything is arriving as it should. I figured even though it's more expensive for me to do DC, it's a hell of a lot cheaper than replacing product constantly. One of my customers said she's had a few packages go missing and is currently out about $50 on things she's ordered. She also commented on the miracle of delivery confirmation and how everything manages to get there when those 2 little words are printed on the envelope. It's so frustrating for me - I don't want my customers to think I'm just not sending their stuff. ALSO, since I've been doing DC, I've noticed my post office is waiting *days* sometimes to process my mail. I'll send something out on a Monday, and the tracking won't say "processed through sort facility" until Wednesday or Thursday! I know they're busy, but c'mon.......

Also, if any of my international customers are reading this -- It's taking longer for me to get these orders out. I can't drive, so I'm basically at the mercy of anyone who will take me to the post office. Domestic orders can be mailed from home but for internationals I have to physically go to the post office and wait in line.

I've seriously considered removing this cast myself. I can't stand being confined to the house (and bed). I've never been a "do nothing" sort of person and this is killing me!!!

Someone please tell me it's a stupid idea.

Okay, time to to some butt-sledding down the stairs and get to work!

Sometimes you just gotta laugh...............

2010-08-31T11:53:00.000-07:00

Getting down the stairs to the studio on my butt is quite an experience. Coming UP is even more fun. I'm resting now (I don't think toes should be purple, should they?) and it's given me time to share some things I'm lusting over.....

Who DOESN'T need werewolf soap??

Werewolf soap by Lippincott Soap Company

Peridot French Cut Prism and Bronze Filigree Pendant by Trash and Trinkets

Art doll clown by paulanerhus

Assemblage necklace by landofnodstudios

Lemon Cream limited edition soap by Product Body

Lemonade Lounger soap by Future Primitive

Oh, only me.

2010-08-29T13:45:00.000-07:00

This morning I was blogging about a new soap, making plans to get Bella and next thing I know - BAM - broken foot. I'm lying in bed right now, hopped up on Vicodin, cast and all. Got some mean lacerations at the same time - opened my foot up almost to the bone.

One problem it's going to pose is my studio is down a long flight of stairs. And I need to work. Maybe I can scoot down the stairs on my butt -- and get a ride to the post office for mailing.

I can do this!!!

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EDIT:

Okay, Joanna - here's the photo you requested. If anyone laughs at the poor state of my toenail polish, I'll kill 'em!!! This is before the cast was put on. You can't see how deep the cut is because of the blood. You can see how swollen my foot is, though!

WASABI's back and he's got a new attitude.

2010-08-29T09:25:00.000-07:00

I've had a lot of requests to make Wasabi again. The last batch was only a test, so it was made in a small quantity. I'm posting photos in a little while of other soaps on the rack.... so stay tuned. Big bad W will be ready on Sept 27th.

Here ya go:

Woes explained, A divine inspiration, A burning sensation, and Pit Bull Attack......

2010-08-26T10:23:00.000-07:00

So here's the deal........ it's been a bad year. Probably shouldn't be airing dirty laundry on a blog that's supposed to be primarily business, but hey.... I am who I am, you know? I won't go into detail about what's been going on, but a brief synopsis might help explain why I've been so damn weird, late on shipping, etc......

So Bella goes to California under the pretense it's just the run-of-the-mill summer visit. She's still not back. All of a sudden it was "Your daughter's unhappy in Portland so she'll be staying in California indefinitely." WHAT??!! So I had precious little time to start preparing to move to California - packing my belongings, making arrangements, finding a place to live 1,000 miles away, and moving the business - which was really the hardest part. Not only does the physical part of the business take up SO much space, but it also meant, as I posted, taking 2-3 weeks off to get life in order, right in the middle of the busy season. Terrible. Just terrible. But she comes first and I am willing to pick up and move for her. So after completely screwing up TMTM, arranging and reserving a moving service, packing some stuff, I'm told she's coming home after all. This is good news. REALLY good news. Life was beginning to feel like a shaken up snow globe, and now hopefully everything can settle and life can get back to normal (heh - whatever THAT means). Thank goodness I had the support of you guys and some *really* amazing friends, one in particular. ^wink^

Thank you, everyone. I feel like I have all these friends all over the world reaching out to me. Do you know how awesome that is?

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Have to ever heard the album Bloodletting by Concrete Blonde? That album CHANGED MY LIFE. I adore it. After not hearing it for probably 2 years, I have been listening to it as I work lately. I'm inspired to do a set of perfume oils inspired as a tribute. I don't know how to go about doing that, though -- I would imagine it would be a good idea to get ahold of their "people" and get permission. I've got family in the industry and I know it can sometimes be a pain in the ass getting anything done. And copyright infringement - WHOA. Big deal. But it's definitely something I'm looking into if I can decide where to start.

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So I'm in the mall the other night and stop into one of the big stores that sell bath and body stuff. I am not familiar with their products, so thought I would see what all the fuss is about. Not being a fan of overly fruity scents, it was hard to find anything that really appealed to me. The smell in there was SO strong, I had a hard time distinguishing one scent from another, so I got the bright idea to spay a bit of one on the back of my hand so I could smell it later while walking around. Did that, left, and was rewarded with a burning.... nay, EXTREME burning....sensation that got worse and worse as the seconds went by. By the time I found a bathroom to wash my hands, the back of my right hand was bright red, welted, and stinging like the devil. I don't have sensitive skin in the least. As a matter of fact, I usually smell like 10 different things because I test all my perfumes (and RAW soap) on my hands. There must have been something in this stuff that I am wildly allergic to. Live and learn, I suppose. From now on, I'm going to stick with what I know - HANDMADE!!!

But after that I wandered into an import store and came out with a jingly-jangly anklet just like I used to wear years ago, and a floor length handmade black skirt that swirls around my ankles and makes me feel pretty.

So the night wasn't all bad!!

My pit bull puppy has extreme separation anxiety. It borders on ridiculous. Yesterday while I was driving, she decided she could no longer stand being in the back seat and proceeded to try and weasel into the front - she's only 6 months old, and about 50 pounds already. I tried to push her back the best I could, but she took advantage of the fact I was driving and *jumped* into the front, whizzing past my face - cutting, bruising, and scratching me in the process. I am bruised pretty bad under my chin and the right side of my jaw. I'm just glad I didn't wreck the car!! Funny thing is, I was coming back from buying her a crate that was hopefully going to help with her anxiety problem!!! My Chihuahuas are jerks, too, but I can handle 4 pounds of unruly - not 50!

Off to work.

Be well, everyone.

Big Fat Soap FAIL and Personal Tragedy

2010-08-22T12:38:00.000-07:00

I made a GORGEOUS batch of soap last night. Absolutely beautiful and the scent was out of this world!!!. But the (new) technique I used required the soap to be poured at a really thin trace. Apparently, the trace was too thin because it didn't set up properly. When I removed it from the mold this morning and tried to cut it, it was so mushy and soft it stuck to the cutter and made a HUGE mess. So off it goes into the soap afterlife (aka trash bin). I could rebatch it, but I just don't have the time or inclination to do so.

One of my favorite suppliers is closing. This will have an impact on several products I offer. I will keep you updated on which ones, etc.

There is some major tragedy going on in my life. It's caused me to make horrible mistakes in the shop - forgetting items in orders, slow shipping, etc. I can't say what's going on right now, but it's huge. Very soon, TMTM will be closed for about 2-3 weeks. At least I HOPE that's all. Please, everyone, send me positive thoughts. I need all the strength I can get.

Happy Friday the 13th!!

2010-08-13T10:32:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone has a safe and kick-ass weekend.

I just somehow managed to get raw soap in my mouth.

Don't. Ever. Do. That.

Here are a couple of new soaps I unmolded this morning. It will be interesting to see how much they change during the curing process.

This one is tomato leaf, lemon, and a kick of berries. Very bright! Every time I walk past, I have to stop and smell it. Seriously.

And this one is a really off the wall concoction of fig, cranberry, 3 musks, and 2 sandalwoods. It very dark and incense-y.....

And yeah, this is the soap I got in my mouth.

Blech.

Sleepy Hollow in the shop!

2010-08-12T21:27:00.000-07:00

So here are the Sleepy Hollow perfumes:

And a fourth for good measure!

They're in the shop now!

Movin' on up......err..... or OVER

2010-08-10T22:13:00.000-07:00

My Etsy bills are high. I mean really REALLY high. Like $200 a month high. I've been going crazy thinking of a way to move away from Etsy - not because I don't like them.. I DO I DO!! - but if I could just sort of spread my inventory out over several sites, *that* would be lovely.

So this amazing chick Amanda, the owner of Long Winter Farm, posted a blog about how she has moved over to a site called Big Cartel.... they have a flat monthly rate, as opposed to the individual listing rates AND percentage Etsy takes. So I took the leap and joined. As of right now, my shop resides here. It looks really terrible and has like 3 items in it, but that will all change soon. And from what I understand, I can change my link to shop.tmtm.com...that's easier, right? So yeah, even though I have to do all my own promotion for this site, it might work out rather well in the long run.

So an official web site is in the works too. I would like to buy the domain and just have it point to the bigcartel site, especially since the pages there are fully customizable!!!

Sweet, yeah?

EDIT: I went ahead and bought my domain. themorbidthemerrier.com is now mine!

Sleepy Hollow

2010-08-10T21:01:00.000-07:00

Okay, so there have been changes to the Halloween lineup. Partly because I added Ash from Evil Dead, and changed the Sleepy Hollow to three perfumes instead of 2.

I've gotta say - I've worn 1 each day for the last 3 days and have gotten SO many compliments! That's always such a nice thing. I decided to do them all pumpkin-based, cause that's how I roll. Funny, though - even though they all have pumpkin, they all smell completely different.

So you wanna hear about them?

ICHABOD - Creamy pumpkin, 3 pines, moss and dark, raw vanilla. Starts out really piney and sweet, but mellows nicely into a mossy, woody dark scent.

KATRINA - A trio of white flowers, smoky almond, and spiced pumpkin. Sweet, but somehow really earthy, especially on the dry-down.

HORSEMAN - Oh my goodness. I *really* like this one a lot. Fiery jack-o-lanterns, black leather boots, temple incense, and the edge of a dark Autumn wood. Opens sweet, almost caramel-foody, but after only a few minutes on the skin, it darkens dramatically, almost changing into a different scent altogether.

I'm soaping tomorrow - hoping to somehow combine these three scents into one soap to compliment all three. As soon as I get to it, I will post pictures!

And photos of the Sleep Hollow trio will hopefully be up tomorrow.

Tomorrow - another debut! Muah-ha-ha.

Halloween Perfume Winners

2010-08-03T12:50:00.000-07:00

Ok - sorry it's taken so long - here are the winners:

Sawney Bean
Ichabod
Horseman
Sweeney Todd
Rosemary's Baby

And Candyman lip balm.

Descriptions coming soon. Promise.

CONTEST WINNERS!!!

2010-07-31T00:05:00.000-07:00

Ok, people...... the winners were picked!

Keepalot and Tenshi won the draw, and Ember won the bonus draw.

So now I need you guys to email me with your addresses and choice of a full size fragrance from the shop so I can get it mailed out!

I will announce the new perfumes tomorrow, because that was a hard decision!!

Congrats, you guys. And thank you everyone for playing. I'm going to do another contest soon. :-)