Bongo Poppy Cake (Delicious, lemon poppy seed cake, drowned in an unhealthy dose of lightly spiced cream cheese icing dripping all over it) Akin to cutting out a thick slice of moist lemon cake with a spread of cream cheese icing and taking that first heavenly sniff before devouring all in sight. The lemon is perfectly balanced with the vanilla cake (with a hint of cardamom and additional grated spice) and I get about 5 hours of waltzing about with uninterrupted baking divinity before it fades to a faint lemon peel with sweet cream cheese and a hidden marshmallow scent. I also own Bongo Poppy Cake in the hair detangler and I notice very little in scent difference, they both smell luscious although the hair detangler lasts a full day on me and I enjoy imagining I am swanning about with a tower of lemon cake balanced in my curled bouffant for the night. Lemon Curd and Coconut Cream (Lemon curd and coconut cream with graham crust) Being a recent convert to the taste of toasted coconut in both culinary and fragrance forms, I must say, I completely understand the myriad of positive reviews on this perfume and I want to gnaw my wrists, haha. This is the real deal of realistic dessert fragrances and out of all the oils I show off at work, Lemon Curd and Coconut Cream is a standout winner every time as I watch with amusement as coworkers with twirling eyes desperately seek out a Tupperware Container of lemon and coconut cream piet throughout the night and ask "Who brought in dessert and is hiding it?" every time they walk past my desk after midnight, haha. Each note is perfectly balanced and hits the nose creating the ultimate compliment of making me want to bake up a storm on a sunny spring morning with a newfound ingredient. For longevity, this goes on to baffle and tantalize the hungry masses for 15 hours with a huge throw reaching across several depts. Peches Melba (Juicy ripe peaches with a teeny squeeze of lemon, and fresh raspberry topped vanilla bean ice cream) One of my favourite novels mentions a Peche Melba dessert and this perfume captures that scene beautifully with exquisite realistic cold peaches, sweet raspberries and an addictive vanilla bean ice cream base served in an crystal dish or rather with every wave of the wrist. It's a special immersive experience that I can enjoy anytime and think of beloved characters with dainty spoon poised to indulge in such a lovely ritzy choice from the menu. Perfect for spring weather and day dreaming. Lilac and Hyacinths (Scent Description: Bloom open your day with this beautiful & fresh scent of Lilacs and Hyacinths) Exactly as it says on the tin, it's like covering yourself in a lavish spread of lilac and hyacinth blooms! The scent is heavier in the perfume and somehow delicate in the dusting powder form but very noticeable and gorgeous. Still one of my top picks for a fresh from the garden lilac and hyacinth marriage in a bottle. I hope it returns this year so I can stock up on well everything I can in this heavenly fragrance. Longevity varies with a heavy workout it fades at 6 hours and if I am just swanning about 10 hours. Free Sample: Lychee Grapefruit and Rose (the complete notes still remain an elusive mystery even a year later) To me, this perfume presents as a stunning seductive enigma to the nose and the senses with an opening of tart sparkling summertime fruits that quickly transitions to a jammy rose nectar with an accompaniment of "dirty" hidden tuberose and a dry down of sandalwood, amber, oud and a drop of honey. It's an olfactory masterpiece that surprises and delights you every time it is worn and allows the wearer to unleash their inner prowl and Summertime Lilith. Lychee Grapefruit and Rose makes me want to dramatically flop back on a leopard print devan wearing nothing but a smile and huff my wrists and curls while being painted. It's THAT type of perfume. This is how I remember the summer of 2021. Brava! *As soon as the full sized was available I purchased a full bottle. MoonaLisa: A Supernatural Clean/Mooscents *Reviews composed in 2021 Like many others, I consider the brilliant scent artist of MoonaLisa: A Supernatural Clean/Mooscents to be the Willy Wonka of the Indie realm and forgive me if I make the comparison to feeling like little Charlie Bucket stepping behind the gates of a world of scent whimsy and imaginative confections as I was offered to explore perfumes from different releases. This was a dream opportunity as MoonaLisa was my introduction to heavenly gourmand fragrances with The Rumpkin! years ago and as I unwrapped every decorated vial I sampled this past month, I discovered new fantastic facets of different fruits, lush florals, seasonal specials and complex olfactory ingredients that continue to tantalize and mystify every time I wave my wrist. These oils were pure magic and I couldn't think of a better place that would be curious to follow along and relive a bit of childhood and captured olfactory alchemy. Let's step behind the gates and visit a real music-maker... *Full Disclosure: These vials were sent for honest reviews 🍰🥧🍭The Cake and Pie Room On entry, we are greeted by a vast sprawling landscape of whipped delights ranging from the traditional to the fanciful. Buttercream mountains reach the ceilings and moist sponge cake and piecrusts serve as the foundations we dance across and let our noses guide us to nuanced fruits and new candied obsessions with a bewitching quality... Bongo Poppy Cake (Delicious, lemon poppy seed cake, drowned in an unhealthy dose of lightly spiced cream cheese icing dripping all over it) Akin to cutting out a thick slice of moist lemon cake with a spread of cream cheese icing and taking that first heavenly sniff before devouring all in sight. The lemon is perfectly balanced with the vanilla cake (with a hint of cardamom and additional grated spice) and I get about 5 hours of waltzing about with uninterrupted baking divinity before it fades to a faint lemon peel with sweet cream cheese and a hidden marshmallow scent. I also own Bongo Poppy Cake in the hair detangler and I notice very little in scent difference, they both smell luscious although the hair detangler lasts a full day on me and I enjoy imagining I am swanning about with a tower of lemon cake balanced in my curled bouffant for the night. Where's My Pie (Scented over the top with everything but the kitchen sink! Buttery, flaky pie crust, cinnamon, pumpkin, carrot, caramel, clove, nutmeg, whipped cream and pecan just to name a few) Everyone may be running in the direction of the spring and summer treats but my nose could happily stay in the gooey spiced corner that is set up with Where's My Pie. As an avid baker, I can attest this smells like a spread of several pies and nutty delicacies with even a crusty buttery bread pudding rolled on the side. It may all sound tooth-achingly sweet but it's a brilliantly balanced blend and is a comforting mashup of autumnal, winter and even early spring pastries with a slice of cream cheese topped carrot cake peeking out. I'm marking Where's My Pie down for everything this upcoming fall. Lemon Curd and Coconut Cream (Lemon curd and coconut cream with graham crust) Being a recent convert to the taste of toasted coconut in both culinary and fragrance forms, I must say, I completely understand the myriad of positive reviews on this perfume and I want to gnaw on my wrists. This is the real deal of realistic dessert fragrances and out of all the oils I showed off at work, Lemon Curd and Coconut Cream was the winner with my coworkers as I had a most entertaining night sitting back and watching others with twirling eyes looking for a Tupperware container of lemon and coconut cream pie throughout the night when they walked past my desk and hearing "Who brought in dessert and is hiding it?" several times after midnight. Each note is perfectly balanced and hits the nose creating the ultimate compliment of making me want to bake up a storm on a sunny spring morning with a newfound ingredient. For longevity, this one went on to baffle and tantalize those around me (this oil has a huge throw) for 15 hours. I will be going after this blend this upcoming release in choice products for home and of course at work (hehe). Rosewater & Angel Food Cake (Fluffy white sponge cake with signature Almond extract and rich fragrant coconut with an added addition of a rose water syrup note.) Angel Food Cake is a special scent in my household as my late grandparents whipped up a specific recipe every sunday family gathering and this is indeed a slice of traditional fluffy Angel Food Cake with a shaved coconut and rosewater syrup, it bouncy and light and surprisingly stays close to the skin. Out of all the vials, I tried Rosewater & Angel Food Cake was the softest even with the almond extract and coconut coming in contact with my skin chemistry that loves to amp those two notes. This would be a nice layering option with possibly something from "the strawberry waterfall" that we will visit in a bit. Chocolate Covered Cherries (aka Cherry Cordial: Just like the candy! Chocolate covered cherry candy with liquor in it) Speaking of nostalgic scents, here's a box of Queen Anne Chocolate Cordial Cherries bottled up to sweep me away to my great-grandmother's house! This is Moona's signature milk chocolate coating a candied cherry, it's delicious and comforting at the same time. For longevity, Chocolate Covered Cherries taps out at 8 hours and stays somewhat close but still manages to cast about a low noticeable throw. The inside of the candy with the cherry stands out to my nose hours later with the amazing chocolate fading to that distinct aroma of the bottom of an empty candy box sans the waxiness, it's the sweet ghostly kiss of cocoa! Befana (Warm crusty baked bread, doused with butter and dripping with honey and traditional spices of cinnamon and clove.) This ode to the benevolent old woman of Italian folklore who visits children with gifts and is said to have housed the three wise men is full of surprises as instead of listed bread, I smell the unmistakable aroma of lemon and orange peel madeleine cookies! The outside holds that slight buttery crispy crunch of waiting fruit then that fluffy inside shell wafts about, it's lovely and lasts several hours which is impressive with anything citrus on my skin. I always associate madeleine cookies with springtime tea-parties or mini pastel draped soirées and Befana is invited for those events. Sugar Rum Cherry (Sugared Vanilla Bourbon rummed Cherries) Mmm this is a marriage of Snow Ice to the inside of Chocolate Covered Cherries, it's warm fruit and buttery thick cream with a surprise boozy finish. This is elevated somehow from simply candy sweet to an elegant (even a bit naughty as it morphs on the skin) olfactory confection and I'm pleased to jot down, Sugar Rum Cherry loves my skin. I bet this one would be incredible in the hair conditioner as you dance and sing out of key to "Pour Some Sugar On Me" in the shower. Caramel Cardamon Affogato (Indulge in a deep Vanilla Bourbon Musk with hot, steamy cocoa, and Cafe Macchiato, drizzled in rich caramel, and Vanilla sugared milk, spiced perfectly with cardamon and nutmeg.) Just like the ultra-soothing and blanking effect Where's My Pie has upon my senses, Carmel Cardamom Affogato is one blend I could wrap myself in and forget the cold world with. This is a rich inviting vanilla and foamy macchiato and spiced cake aroma that beguiles the nose and amplifies the cosy factor of autumnal or winter selections then leaves you with an unexpected honeyed steamed milk note 6 hours later that then lasts an additional 8 hours and sees you off to dreamland. Mmm, I'm a shameless spice fiend and I don't care who knows it. Absolutely sublime! I must grab this fragrance in a bath option this next winter. 🍓🌠🌈The Strawberry WaterfallAs your eyes scan the horizon you notice a wonder of a crystal-faceted jar that catches the light ever so brilliantly be tilted on its side and pipped bright pink and red sweet jam spreads thickly across a bed of powdered fried dough, fluffy marshmallow and spangled rainbow spectrums of light bounce off to beckon you closer. I promise you no artificial aromas will offend, only pure homemade goodness... Jingle Jelly Donuts (The irresistible scent of sugary fried dough, sweet vanilla, and gobs of oozing strawberry jam) 2021 is shaping up to be the year of the scrumdiddlyumptious strawberry hunt for myself as when I first spritzed my locks with the hair detangler in Jingle Jelly Donuts, the insatiable pursuit was on and when asked what I would love to try from this enchanting house of fragrance, I wanted ALL the strawberries. This one is homemade strawberry jam inside a shell of dough and drizzled in warm vanilla glaze with a sprinkle of powdered sugar. No guilt, no calories just an addictive series of ingredients that is hard to stop spritzing and slathering. Between the hair detangler and the perfume oil, the vanilla glaze is more prominent in my curls with the dark strawberry jam while my skin amps the powdered sugared dough with the photo-realistic jam as a middle note. No matter where I huff, I'm in love. Strawberry Marshmallow (Bursting fruity strawberry goodness married with ooey marshmallow cream, a match made in heaven) And now we come to admittedly one of my favourite vials from the whole tour, as this is exactly like holding a fresh strawberry by the green stem and dipping it into a bowl of marshmallow cream, taking a bite letting the juice run down your chin with childish glee then going directly back for a more full dunk. As with Jingle Jelly Donuts, Strawberry Marshmallow has changed everything I thought about strawberry perfumes. No artificial candy here or recollections of cupcake dolls, just pure indulgence and temptation that lasts into the next day and a new fragrance to hoard away at the next release. *flops back and inhales wrists and hair* I wish to reside by the delicious Strawberry Waterfall feature all day, however, there is still so much to see... but wait a second I see a few kicking their heels and hear grumbles in the back that they don't like gourmands, ah no worries, you may love the next collection of scents, come along... 🍷🌹🎨As much as I love comparing Moona to Willy Wonka she can also transform and transport the senses to different eras and scenes from novels, legends and treasured memories with a palette of rich florals, warm resins and nifty atmospheric effects. Here's a gallery that may interest you. Hygge (The Danish word, pronounced "hoo-ga", is usually translated into English as "coziness". Picture sitting by a fireplace, wearing your softest cozy slipper-socks, surrounded by the warm glow of candles, soft music playing, drinking mulled wine and hot coffees, while eating hot Danish pastries! That is definitely Hygge! Notes include: Gently spiced wine and coffees, wafting of warm Beeswax with subtle smokiness with a background of Danish pastry!) This is the scent that started the atmospheric gallery for me as I was able to try the Potion Lotion (thank you so much, Samantha!) in Hygge last year and with one thick lotion application I was in awe and love and I knew if given the chance I must sample the oil. What a difference between the two formats! The lotion is all heavenly vanilla cheese danish on me with a backing of equally realistic beeswax candles and the perfume is a whole storybook scene of warmth, peace and security with familiar black coffee opening then gently giving way to the barest aroma of a freshly trimmed Christmas tree all aglow and then the delectable vanilla drizzled cheese danish dessert is sliced and the textbook buttery flakiness and the barest sprinkle of homey spice and mulled fruit fully catches my attention and a swirl of holiday memories dances about in the glow of a traditional Christmas Eve candle that I fondly remember lighting and then blowing out to predict the future with my pappy as the first visible star of the night twinkled above such a lovely scene. Isn't it wonderful how indie perfumes can sweep us back to happier times? I know it's a splendid blessing for me and I have Hygge down for everything next Yule. Amber Rose (A beautifully rich and inciting Amber blended with real Bulgarian Rose essential oil makes for a heavenly blend.) Amber Rose is an ostentatious deep rose scent with a warm amber base and hints of hidden violet and frankincense (perhaps even a drop of spikenard?) I have been looking for a perfume that brings to mind Empress Elisabeth of Austria and by gum, I believe I have found it with Amber Rose. Legend has it that Empress Sisi would splash Bulgarian Rose oil in her infamous locks and that's what I plan to do when it returns. For those that missed out on Moona's The Coven, here is that blend's sister-scent with a vintage edge and missing the romantic vanilla from The Coven. Peches Melba (Juicy ripe peaches with a teeny squeeze of lemon, and fresh raspberry topped vanilla bean ice cream) Absolute scent sorcery, the peaches stay true and fresh without morphing into cat urine on my skin and I swear I smell COLD vanilla ice cream. The raspberries are crushed and cold as well. This blend has more throw with the gentle lemon raspberries and peach catching the attention first drawing the nose in then the creamy vanilla ice cream swirls around. This paints one passage from a treasured novel (The House of Mirth) and I will dab then slather and let Peches Melba take me away to the classy restaurant of Old New York and indulge in a bit of extravagance with the lovely Lily Bart in attendance (but I outshine her of course). Georgina (Creamy white Chocolate, fresh juicy Strawberries and Rose *created by Moona's young son) This is a creamy dreamy mélange of rose petals, fresh strawberries and distinct white chocolate that intensifies as the hours tick by. On application, the roses shower over the strawberries and the white chocolate serves as a nice sweet buttery afternote and some Easter basket memories. Mmm, it's been a long time since I found a pure white chocolate note without a distracting woody finish and Georgina is simply ace. I'm marking this delectable fruity-floral-gourmand for a hair conditioner option. A Discovery of Witches (Moona's rendition of the romantic description of Matthew de Clermont to his beloved Diana as to the scent of her skin~ Willow Sap, Chamomile, Golden Honey, Frankincense, Lady's Mantle, and *ancient things I thought I'd forgotten. * which includes in Moona's interpretation as Sacred Spikenard, Labdanum and Frankincense, among other beautiful components. Hmmm, sigh.....) A hodgepodge of morphing notes from nature and fantasy that all equals a mysterious vanilla-honey cream scent on the skin with a sprinkling of ritual spring herbs on top that hold some coolness and yet warmth somehow at the same inhale. A Discovery of Witches is one of those "your skin but better" romantic collages I adore that has some unexpected twists. I never read the books but I can easily imagine this character's personality, her hidden powers and understand why she is so irresistible to all those she encounters. Poetry (Romance is in the air with this balance of scent between floral, citrus, spice, and resin. Orange blossom cream with an English Toffee swirl and a touch of Frankincense and Ginger) This is a stunning work of scent art with an uplifting orange blossom opening, a creamy toffee swirl with a hint of resins and spicy ending*.* It contains elegant depth and morphing elements and has joined Nui Cobalt's LOVE (and Ambre Doré- to be rambled about shortly) as fragrances that transport me into a Pre-Raphaelite painting or a stained glass window. Poetry is perfectly named and there are subtle differences noticed between the hair detangler and perfume oil, if anything my curls amp the romantic orange blossoms with buttery toffee while my skin slightly amplifies the frankincense and ginger spice. Both exceedingly lovely and a starred favourite. Haunted Home (Haunt your halls with this bewitching blend of woods, herbs, resins and a touch of spice. Even an Addams would be envious of this brew! Reminiscent of the feeling and aroma of Moona's FAVORITE ride in the whole wide world, Haunted Mansion!) I dabbed and slathered and sniffed and huffed dozens of times and I honestly can't completely unravel this blend, it's just one of those rare atmospherics that you truly just go along the ride with and changes every time you try it! I know I smell Moona's trademark dulcet and dreamy lavender, various soft spices with dusty wood and I think some hidden gingerbread and a sprinkle of refined pipe tobacco; it's mysterious and somehow sweetly comforting. I love to wear Haunted Home to bed and let the notes drift me off to pleasant restive dreams. I need Haunted Home for my bath and in a dusting powder this year. Krampus Night! (Out of the German Black Forest to punish and drag away the naughty and not nice comes Krampus! Various dry woods including birch, blended with a touch of silken white wool and suede, sweet smoldering resinous embers, with a touch of wet blackened earth) Ah, Krampus Night! I first fell hard for this fragrance when a cleverly designed soap sample was included in my Yule order a few years back and I'm excited to note that the highly anticipated perfume carries the same intoxicating lump of coal-shaped soap's scent and my skin amps the seductive factors of Krampus Night!. In the soap, it was a collage of sweet nostalgic resins with a drop of suede and patchouli while with the oil format my skin unleashes the gentle spices with orange peel, suede, Moona's signature fir note and dark patchouli. In many ways, Krampus Night! reminds me of Kris Kringle but there are more clove, cinnamon and a naughty thack of birch and suede, which all makes sense as Krampus is said to be the opposite of Kris Kringle in the legends. Very clever interpretation. Marking another down for a bath option when the icy winds begin to howl. Ambre Doré (An Amber years in the making! Tenacious & rich with a sweet bourbon vanilla & resinous balsam base. The dry down is slightly woody with a touch of leather & a creamy hay like sensuous subtly) In the vial, I get inspiring vanilla extract with a kick and once it touches my skin it morphs completely to this stunning cold crystalline non-gourmand vanilla that I recognize from one point in A Discovery of Witches. It's romantic, boozy and meditative but also holds some seductive properties to the nose. It brings to mind Waterhouse's The Lady of Shalott classic painting and as a water sign and hopeless romantic I'm here for it all! For longevity, this one goes on for 14 hours and I do believe I need Ambre Doré in a dusting powder and argan oil option if funds permit. Halloween Hayride (Harvest hay, bonfires and dried leaves mix with amber, smoky sandalwood, and musk. In the distance, you are anxious to get to back to the circle with the promise of roasted marshmallows, and other sugary seasonal treats) Another realistic atmospheric to recommend as this is indeed a bouncing ride behind a puttering tractor with the vibrant blaze of autumnal leaves swishing in the chilled winds. There are apple orchards off in the near distance and someone is waving a blackened gooey marshmallow up at you as you pass a cosy bonfire. Halloween Hayride conjures the idyllic tableau that I would love to escape into at the moment. I'll just tuck this vial away when summer begins or bring it out when I'm fed up with any sticky humid days. Abigail (Sweet Vanilla Sugared Violets in Marshmallow cream, on a bed of golden sandalwood and a peak of tantalizing dark cocoa) The listed notes say strictly gourmand but Abigail is another surprise atmospheric taking those to the 18th and 19th centuries with ribbons and frothy lace and delicacies in gold caskets. Out of all the perfumes I sampled on this tour, this one carries the most "perfume" identity with the violets and sandalwood but it somehow works creating a rich scene of ladies of leisure with lace fans and perfumed love letters under candied violets and the last remnants of dark coco-dusted truffles. Sweet Smoke & Wood (Sweet smoldering Yule bonfires of Sandalwood and sweet aromas of the season) If you love relaxing meditative fragrances, come closer, no not that close. Stand back about 6 feet and tell me what you smell because Sweet Smoke & Wood has one impressive throw. I get the inside of a lush fir tree then creamy sandalwood amplifies along with a touch of spiced woodsmoke. It's one of those medleys you inhale and go back for another then flop back and let the winter musings aroma surround you and ease tension and negative thoughts blocking a better outlook for the day. For longevity, this blend was one of the longest-lasting out of the bunch clocking in at 18 hours and then still noticeable after a bath (thank goodness I love this Sweet Smoke & Wood and don't mind it lingering). ____________________________________ The Perfect 10: Strawberry Marshmallow, Jingle Jelly Donuts, Hygge, Lemon Curd & Coconut Cream, Ambre Doré, Bongo Poppy Cake, Poetry, Peches Melba, Where's My Pie and Haunted Home Thank you for reading and allowing me to share one of the greatest scent experiences I have ever had. What do you get delivered to your door when you cross captivating pumpkins, spice, dark fruits and Christmas cookies with much-needed self-care practices (and a bit of an obsession)? Why the largest indie haul to date (and box on my breezeway) from MoonaLisa: A Supernatural Clean of course! Here is my trove of Halloween/Yule 2021 and my thoughts (buckle up buttercups, this one is a long overdue one!). -Can we just stop and marvel at the incredible themed artwork that accompanies this indie shop's creations and the time and attention that goes into each parcel. It's like unboxing an exquisite layered cake every time I order. Spray-in Hair Detangler I'll open this rambling long-overdue review by first commenting on MoonaLisa's Hair Detangler formula which is something my vanity table will never be seen without. It's not only a compulsion anymore but an absolute necessity to stock up with as many bottles of these hair-loving elixirs as I can afford every season and then hoard them away to treat myself to a unique blend every morning and night. With my past waist-length mane, I run through a generous sized bottle about every odd month and a half and I truly receive my full money's worth with these products (my hair has never looked or felt this healthy and I can't stop touching my soft manageable hair now). The longevity of the fragrances varies between each blend, however, I have discovered citrus and spice based bottles can last days in my hair. I know I keep saying this every post when it comes to MoonaLisa but it's the truth: Where has this product been all my life? S'mores & Hot Cocoa (Classic marshmallow, buttery graham crackers and rich chocolate paired with steaming hot cocoa) I had to treat my locks to the holy grail of hot cocoa fragrances I have found in the indie realm and just as with the perfume (and dusting powder and bath brew) it's magnificent with a warm rich depth of realistic chocolate, buttery graham crackers and fluffy marshmallows that become melted lumps of nostalgia and pure bliss with every gust of cold wind. Absolutely a recommendation for those of us with an incurable sweet tooth and anyone desiring to revisit to happier days of your youth. Where's My Pie (Scented over the top with everything by the kitchen sink! Buttery flaky pie crust, cinnamon, pumpkin, carrot, caramel, clove, nutmeg, whipped cream and pecan to just name a few) As an avid baker, I can attest this smells like a spread of several mouth-watering prepared pies and nutty delicacies with even a crusty buttery bread pudding rolled on the side. It may all sound tooth-achingly sweet but it's a brilliantly balanced blend and is a comforting mashup of autumnal, winter and even early spring pastries with a slice of cream cheese topped carrot cake peeking out. When it comes to a comparison between the perfume oil versus the hair detangler, more butter and caramel are pronounced on my skin whilst spice and whipped cream are wonderfully entangled in my curls. Another instant favourite and repurchase. Whole (Sweet Orange, Neroli (Orange Blossom) & Petitgrain. Warming, soothing and refreshing to the spirit. This is a very special blend using every part of the orange tree: the leaves, fruit, rind and twig, helping you feel whole again.) 99% of this order were repurchases or doubling up on the detanglers or dusting powders from the perfume samples I had the amazing opportunity to try. Whole blew me away in 2019 and I had to get more of this citrus spiced meditative fragrance as I found it helped me calm down after particularly harsh nights and at the same time channelled 18th-Century French Nobility and I felt a centred diamond at my vanity brushing this scent into my curls. It's still magic, lasts days in my hair and I'm very particular about citrus scents so for Whole to be a repurchase speaks volumes in my book. Winter Porridge with Apple Strudel (Hot buttery oats with a slightly spiced baked apple strudel with a heart of warming goodness.) Another note I'm a bit finicky about is apple and this bottle was a last minute addition to my basket as I found purchasing the detanglers is the ideal way for me to try out unfamiliar blends for myself (even if the scents aren't perfect matches for my nose, they are used up to the last drop). Winter Porridge with Apple Strudel was a lovely surprise and I fell quite hard for the realistic aroma of oats swirled/spiced apples accompanying me through my work shifts during fall into winter. Very comforting and homey and I want Apple Brown Betty now to compare. Mother's Milk (Warming and comforting Almond milk with a touch of honey and oats) Sweet and creamy but not a favourite oddly. It's a cold day when I'm not making embarrassing noises when I spray my hair and brush out my mane with a detangler from Moona and this one was decent but wasn't for me (I think my hair just overbalanced the almond to the other delicious notes). I still used up every drop and found a perfect match instead with Dicken's Faire when it came to almonds. Jingle Jelly Donuts (The irresistible scent of sugary fried dough, sweet vanilla and gobs of oozing strawberry jam) For the life of me, I can't recall what came first the research about doughnuts and scents men find attractive and addictive OR the "Behind the Gates" opportunity to sample the perfume oil format of this bottle first? Well in any case this one is delectable with homemade strawberry jam inside a shell of dough and drizzled in warm vanilla glaze with a sprinkle of powdered sugar. No guilt, no calories just an addictive series of ingredients that is hard to stop spritzing and slathering. The vanilla glaze is more prominent in my curls with the dark strawberry jam and a hint of pine boughs whilst in the perfume my skin amps the powdered sugared dough with the photo-realistic jam as a middle note. No matter where I huff, I'm in love. I shall report back if that study about scents men are attracted to is just hyped bogus or not (or should I say, "dough"not, haha). Dicken's Faire (A reformulation of Moona's favourite place in the world to be this time of the year! The mouth-watering scent of sugared roasting almonds, vanilla and spice you can smell throughout the entire grounds!) After the miss with Mother's Milk, I admit I was a bit gun shy to open Dicken's Faire then, of course, it only took one spritz and I was immediately regretting not using it earlier or donning it for special events that would have been perfect to match the delicious atmosphere and mood Dicken's Faire supplies. It's a divine balance of creamy buttery spice, roasted almonds, vanilla and honey that lasts days in my hair and the following year I went back for seconds and thirds are on the list in the form of the perfume bottle joining my collection in 2022. If you are a fellow little spice whore, Dicken's Faire is a must to try! Cinnamon Blackberry Crunch (A delicious blend of cinnamon sugared blackberries topping an irresistible confectionery crunch!) This was one of the first blends I ever tried from this enchanting indie shop and years later it's still sublime! It's buttery, toothsome fruit with spice sprinkled on top and even has realistic crunchy crumbles and a squeeze of lemon to top it off. Exactly as it says on the tin and you can only imagine the embarrassing noises I make when my locks lift and trap the intoxicating spice and dark fruit from this bottle, haha. Iced Gingerbread (Realistic Gingerbread blend with mild nostalgic Yuletide spice and white icing) Speaking of making awkward loud noises of happiness, we have arrived to another holy grail and repurchase for life for me. In whatever format, THIS is the gingerbread fragrance of my dreams and is the ideal gingerbread scent sealed in a bottle along with a whiff of iced animal crackers. In my hair, the heavenly spice and vanilla intertwine my senses and I could flop back and huff my locks whilst tapping my red kitten heels to the tune of "Santa Baby" that plays in the background of my brain when I spritz or slather this spiced confection. I can't recommend Iced Gingerbread enough. Nonna's Christmas Cookies (A tribute to KC's (Mooman) Sicilian Great-Grandmother. Made just like KC's Nonna would make her special cookies every year! A little of this and a little of that). To round out this scrumptious cookie jar collection of scents for my crown I doubled up on Nonna's Christmas Cookies which to my nose is fresh oatmeal cookies from the oven drizzled in white chocolate, a hint of warm spice and realistic milky creaminess that amplifies in my hair. Absolutely magnificent in every way and goes on to delight and entice those around me for 2 days before fading completely. Dusting Powders I said it once and I'll say it again, one of my true guilty pleasures in life is dusting powders and happily rolling around like a chinchilla in a fragrant dust bath of gourmands and florals. It's one of the ultimate self-pampering gifts one can buy for oneself and MoonaLisa's formula still reigns as the best I have found and tried for myself. The formula never cakes or clumps and the aromas last well into the next day and I love how they peek out of my clothes in a little delectable wafts when I need them the most. Cinnamon Blackberry Crunch (A delicious blend of cinnamon sugared blackberries topping an irresistible confectionery crunch!) *see above, no difference between the hair detangler, argan oil, perfume and dusting powder formats. All toothsome and addictive. The Rumpkin! (Delicious pumpkin goodies with a twist of fresh sweet lavender essential oil) My darling, my love, my perfect marriage of spiced pumpkin and lavender; you are home! Now curiously on my skin with the perfume, bath brew and dusting powder the hidden apples, smoke and white chocolate are noticeable versus in the detangler and argan oil which is more creamy spiced pumpkin and lavender with the slightest hint of sweet bonfire smoke. The Rumpkin! still holds so many bewitching secrets and surprises and I can't ramble about this scent potion enough. Snow Ice (Fond memories Moona has when a child at camp during the Nevada snows making natural "ice cream" from ice cold snow, condensed milk, sugar and vanilla extract. This scent is reminiscent of that: sweet crystallized vanilla sugar and cream) Whether on my skin or in my hair this one is a true masterpiece of a gourmand as it's dreamy but never childish or cloying. Snow Ice finishes off any look for the night and I love I leave the tiniest bit of a crystallized vanilla trail in my wake with this lovely realistic creamy vanilla blend. In the dusting powder, this one is pure bliss when it reacts with my heated skin and I can smell it through a thick fuzzy sweater. It's akin to a sweet hug. Eclipse (A full on powdery musky amber. Full bodied, earthy, sweet and sensuous. Represents sensuality) Eclipse was a new olfactory experiment for myself and remains a bit of a mystery. I know I smell jasmine, rose and patchouli and of course amber musk but there is something else in this esoteric love potion of a scent that catches my attention at different times of wear. It really does make you feel like dancing out in the moonlight to a Fleetwood Mac or Lana Del Rey song. My canister is nearly empty after others caught a whiff and demanded I share, haha. I guess I need to repurchase in 2022. Nonna's Christmas Cookies (A tribute to KC's (Mooman) Sicilian Great-Grandmother. Made just like KC's Nonna would make her special cookies every year! A little of this and a little of that). *see above, no difference between the hair detangler, hair conditioner, perfume and dusting powder formats. All tempt just one bite or lick. Argan Oil Hair Rescue I can't have or praise the detangler without mentioning the argan oil formula MoonaLisa offers because they are a match made in hair heaven and these products have worked absolute magic on my tresses (I'm still getting used to all the compliments I receive and being told I have "fairytale hair" *blushes*). I have never had such shiny healthy-looking hair. The argan oil I use after I have brushed out my mane with the aid of the detangler then I add a dime-size amount of argan oil in different scents to the ends of my hair. If I have any excess left I place that in the back of my head. I run thru a bottle about every 3 months and they are worth every penny. Cinnamon Blackberry Crunch (A delicious blend of cinnamon sugared blackberries topping an irresistible confectionery crunch!) *see above, no difference between the hair detangler, argan oil, perfume and dusting powder formats. All toothsome and addictive. Hair Conditioner Short and sweet- a fabulous formula that tackles my thick hair with hardly an end tangle and only gifts me with softness, shine and a bonus of added scent to my locks. The bottle that keeps on giving, haha! Iced Gingerbread (Realistic Gingerbread blend with mild nostalgic Yuletide spice and white icing) This was my first bottle of the hair conditioner but certainly not my last as I found it was another fantastic way to try out fragrances in the seasonal listing for a lower price and now I have a long pretty row of bottles for every mood and craving. For those curious, the Hair Conditioner formula is thick and creamy and serves well for a deep conditioning treatment and the scents last out of the tub. One more lifelong repurchase option for myself to ramble about. Extras/Gifts Cranberry Spiced Shortbread Hair Detangler (Juicy ripe Cranberries ready to burst with a subtle touch of Christmas spices topping warm and buttery shortbread cookies.) A fellow avid gourmand collector's miss became my treasure as I was gifted Cranberry Spiced Shortbread (thank you so much again, Samantha!) and I ended up adoring it so much I went back for my own cobalt blue bottle in 2021. Now oddly the perfume version of Cranberry Spiced Shortbread morphed unexpectedly on me and even though I enjoyed the realistic sogginess of the almost bubbly cranberry and buttery shortbread, the detangler is all crackle and realistic fizz of a cranberry drink with more creamy woody spice that lasts a full 3 days in my hair. An instant uplifting and giggle-worthy fragrance. Hygge Potion Lotion (The Danish word, pronounced "hoo-ga", is usually translated into English as "coziness". Picture sitting by a fireplace wearing your softest cozy slipper-socks, surrounded by the warm glow of candles, soft music playing, drinking mulled wine and hot coffees while eating hot Danish pastries! That is Hygge! Notes include: Gentely spiced wine and coffees, wafting of warm Beeswax with subtle smokiness with a background of Danish pastry!) Another rare miss for another that turned in a new jewel for my morning sleep routine. The lotion is all lovely vanilla cheese danish one me with a backing of equally realistic beeswax candles and the perfume version is a whole storybook scene of warmth, peace and security with familiar black coffee opening then gently giving way to the under notes. The scent of the lotion lingers for 10 hours and sees me out the door for the night after a long cold day's sleep hibernated under a mountain of fuzzy blankets. Hygge just completes the scene. Spread The Love Massage Bar in Chocolate Espresso Torte *free self-pampering treat with purchase Mmmm, can I eat this?! It's soap you say? Well, you could have fooled me as it smells like the most decadent dessert with layers of dark chocolate and expensive coffee. If I can restrain myself long enough to not lick the bar or my skin I notice the buttery richness of the little heart-shaped bar (nice touch) and how my skin especially along my neck loves the feeling of the little nubs. I would purchase a full-sized bar in a heartbeat and I have Chocolate Espresso Torte on my wishlist to grab in some bath product in 2022. MoonaLisa: A Supernatural Clean Delectable scent confections and history, what more could a lady ask for? Perhaps seconds. I should have picked up more dusting powders...but I'm jumping ahead of myself. These are my 2 parcels of springtime fragrant treats combined and ready to be rambled about. Spray-In Detangler formula- You have heard it once, twice and are about to hear it again about this magic hair elixir that is my holy grail hair product I've been searching for all my life. THIS STUFF WORKS. With my (past) waist length mane, I run through a generous sized bottle about every month and half and I truly receive my full money's worth with these products (I can't stop touching my soft manageable hair now). The longevity on the fragrance varies between each blend, however, I have discovered different fruit and spice based bottles can last days in my hair. Aurelia (Gathered Notes and Description: Delicious ripe raspberries top this lovely, raspberry jam filled, white wedding cake, doused with vanilla cream, topped with dried red rose petals, and with a hint of Sandalwood ambered musk) Let's start off this long overdue review with showcasing my beloved Aurelia! She is the perfect marriage of gourmand and floral and a must try if you adore realistic raspberries. In the detangler more of the vanilla cream with decadent fruit is pronounced on my locks versus on my skin with the perfume and the rose is just the perfect topping. I can expect one to two days of the aroma of one of the greatest desserts I have had on my plate accompanying me and Aurelia keeps her well deserved crown in my book. She is the fairest smelling of them all and she is finally home! Field of Dreams (Gathered Notes and Description: (formerly Lavender Fields) A blended Amber, with Lavender Kashmir, Lavender absolute, and Lavender (Lavendula Angustifolia Moldova) I was so tempted to just fill my basket with everything Aurelia this past January and call it a night, but at the last moment I got this impulse to be a bit adventurous and try some new fragrances just for you all. Okay, I also have a weakness for Moona's Lavender oils and when I saw real Lavendula Angustifolia Moldova blended with amber, into the basket Field of Dreams went. This one is soft lavender, I never understood what others meant by a lavender being soft until I spritzed this lovely hair tonic on my head for the first time. It's so dreamy and pretty, however fleeting as the smell hardly lasts a few hours in my hair. I'm definitely placing this one down for next year in some bath products, perfume and dusting powder. Field of Dreams would be a divine sleep fragrance. Poetry (Gathered Notes and Description: Romance is in the air with this balance of scent between floral, citrus, spice, and resin. Orange blossom cream with an English Toffee swirl and a touch of Frankincense and Ginger.) And with one spray Poetry has joined Nui Cobalt's LOVE as fragrances that transport me into a Pre-Raphaelite painting or a stained glass window. This is a gorgeous work of art and I must grab the perfume and dusting powder next year. The uplifting elegant orange blossom opens the scene then this creamy toffee swirl with a hint of resins and spice appear and completely transforms this scent confection differing itself from the Yule Wonder called Whole. Poetry has more depth and morphing elements than Whole. For longevity oddly Poetry only lasts about 8 to 10 hours versus Whole which still captivates days later. With that said, I need to remember to layer this Tudor-era inspired fragrance; I'm completely okay with that necessity. Argan Oil Hair Rescue formula- I can't have or recommend the detangler without mentioning the argan oil formula MoonaLisa offers because they are a match made in hair heaven and these products have worked absolute magic on my tresses. I have never had such shiny healthy looking hair. The Argan Oil I use after I have brushed out my mane with the aid of the Detangler then I add a dime size amount of argan oil in different scents to the end of my hair. If I have any excess oil on my hands I flip my hair down and place the excess in the back of my head. I run thru a bottle about every 3 months and they are worth every penny. Aurelia (Gathered Notes and Description: Delicious ripe raspberries top this lovely, raspberry jam filled, white wedding cake, doused with vanilla cream, topped with dried red rose petals, and with a hint of Sandalwood ambered musk) She's baack and this time she carries in her wake sweetened raspberry cake to tempt just one lick and the barest hint of romantic rose petals and sandalwood. I simply love that each form of Aurelia amplifies another facet of this delicious scent potion. I plan to compose a more in-depth comparison review once I have all the products from dusting powder to bath salts next year. Queen's Gloves (Gathered Notes and Desciption: This scent was inspired by a recipe for an aromatic powder made to scent the leather gloves of Queen Elizabeth I. This powder was a gift from her secret lover, the Earle of Essex. Date of original recipe is about 1588. It was said she was seen often walking around sniffing the gloves while carrying them in her hand with a smile on her face. Notes include: Egyptian rose absolute, orris root, Benzoin, essence of citron, clove bud, lavender, rosewood, muscade (nutmeg) and Amyris.) This is an ancient regal fragrance that defies conventional expectations of feminine and masculine as it strangely dances the line of both. I fully admit Queen's Glovesm initially caught me completely off guard with a leathery orange and clove opening, but in the months I have spent in its company, it has certainly grown on me and I can faintly detect the rose and lavender if I concentrate. It's one of those note mosaics that immediately harkens back to another era and at the same time allows you to understand another facet of a complex historical figure. Queen's Gloves is the blend to wear if you attend a faire or themed event dealing with the 16th century. THIS is the scent of Gloriana and a romance that could never be! Lip Butters formula- This was my third time ordering the Lip Butters and as with Absinthe Marshmallow and Campfire Tales if I could only stop licking my lips and thinking about eating the sticks, I could fully concentrate and properly catalogue my thoughts. First and foremost the scents are phenomenal and taste like the real thing as promised on the label. For performance, they start out solid then once applied melt on the lips and I haven't had an annoying breakouts with this formula, which is fantastic. If I had to rate them overall, I would say they are the upper middle of better formulas I have tried. They nicely moisturize, but I don't think I would use them for the harsh winter months when I need a balm with moderate repairing properties. For me, they are more suited for light work if that makes sense and I will enjoy these Lip Butters spring and summer and early fall. Rose Petal Jam lip butter As it says on the tin, a soft delicious rose fragrance that tastes like taking a bite of a sugared rose petal with a tart jammy finish. I wish this came in a perfume option or body powder. I save this beauty for special occasions or when I'm reading special Tudor inspired fiction. It's romantic and delicious. Gift with Purchase: Massage Bar (Made with cocoa, coconut and shea butter, bees wax, Lavender buds and organic Lavender essential oil) *Thank you, Moona! Can we just pause for a moment and admire the stunning artistry that goes into MoonaLisa's packaging and branding? I'm honestly blown away every time I open a newly themed collection and I look forward to the mystery of the artwork or fine details in the items tucked into each parcel. This massage bar is no exception as it came wrapped in a lovely historical-styled tableau and the bar was shaped as an adorable heart with "nubs" and real lavender buds peeking through. The scent is heavenly, creamy cocoa and lavender and that aroma carries over into the shower in addition to the beeswax. I would purchase a large chunk of this in a heartbeat, it worked wonders on my elbows and heels. Confetti Cake detangler (Scent Description: Big white fluffy cake, with mounds and mounds of freshly made buttercream icing, sprinkled with bright and cheery Confetti sprinkles.) Speaking of surprises, Confetti Cake took well the cake, haha, when it came to the unexpected of these orders. I was anticipating the most exquisite vanilla cake with sugared vanilla icing and wouldn't you know it, it smells like banana cake. It was nice (especially the scrumptious vanilla part), a bit nostalgic and I used the entire bottle, but I don't think I would repurchase the detangler. Perhaps I would like Confetti Cake in a milk bath. Oh well, can't love everything and my pocketbook sighs in relief. Bongo Poppy Cake detangler (Scent Description: Delicious, lemon poppy seed cake, drowned with an unhealthy dose of lightly spiced cream cheese icing dripping all over it!) Now my pocketbook can start panicking because Bongo Poppy Cake is coming home in EVERYTHING next year. Oh, this is amazing, at first it smells like sweet happy lemon fruity pebbles then as it warms up on my curls it resembles homemade lemon cake and I'm completely smitten with this comforting fragrance. The hype about Bongo Poppy Cake was warranted. It's the best lemon cake blend I have found in my years of collecting and I must get a perfume bottle of this. For longevity, I get a full day and a half of waltzing about smelling of delightful lemon cake with the smallest dollop of cream cheese. Just perfection! Dusting Powder formula- I feel I'm reconnecting or channeling a lost portion of myself when I use dusting powders and if you want to feel fancy grab a canister and shake shake to be swept away or be reminded of a time of luxury and self pampering. I should have purchased dusting powder years ago as this is a marvellous experience that just leaves my skin silky soft and smelling like a delicate brush of whatever fragrance is listed on the generously sized can. For more personal reasons why I adore this formula, it doesn't cake no how much I use at one time, it keeps unwanted dampness away in the unforgiving heat and helps with annoying rubbing from undergarments. I want to savor these canisters for as long as possible so I only allow an indulgence every Sunday before a full week of night work. It's just an extra special treat to look forward to that only MoonaLisa can offer. Lilac and Hyacinths dusting powder (Scent Description: Bloom open your day with this beautiful & fresh scent of Lilacs and Hyacinths) Exactly as it says on the tin, it's like covering yourself in a lavish spread of lilac and hyacinth blooms! The scent is delicate in the dusting powder form so I must in theory purchase everything to layer with, right? I seriously need to go with my gut anymore when I'm in the heat of these hunger games type releases, I knew I was going to adore this and yet I only stopped at one canister of floral olfactory magic. Lesson learned. Mmmhm. A very hard lesson learned and shall not be need repeated. Gift with Purchase: One Note Wonder Liquid Soap in Honeyed Strawberry & Rhubarb *thank you, Moona! I don't know how this Willy Wonka (or would it be Willivine or Wilhelmina?) of the Indie World does it, but everything she makes smells like a luxurious treat for yourself that you want to nibble on or tempt a lick of. Even soap! This is another gem I'm hiding away and only using on special occasions, it smells like sugared crushed strawberry juice and tart rhubarb straight from the garden. If I concentrate I want to say something floral is also mixed within this sunny fragrance. It almost reminds me of Ramo's Raspberry & Rose just with a sweet strawberry twist. Overall, a definite keeper and scent treasure to hoard away. MoonaLisa: A Supernatural Clean As I have aged the holiday season has become cold and mournful (everyone you care for leaves and you are left staring at empty chairs and alone with shadows of regrets), however there are memories of once happy times that keep some spark of cheer glowing for myself in November through January and MoonaLisa: A Supernatural Clean somehow taps into those secret recollections with their realistic smelling gourmands, touches of vintage delight and whimsy and overall presentation that whisks all me away to a better place and time and I can't recommend this enchanting shop enough for someone that needs a smile or a unexpected reminder of comfort and joy not just in the winter months but throughout the year. Winter Spray-In Hair Tangler formula- I'll open this rambling long overdue review with first commenting on MoonaLisa's Hair Detangler formula which is a true holy grail for myself and something my vanity table will never be seen without. It's not only a compulsion anymore but an absolute necessity to stock up with as many bottles of these hair-loving elixirs as I can afford every release and then hoard them away to treat myself to a unique blend every morning and night. With my (past) waist length mane, I run through a generous sized bottle about every month and half and I truly receive my full money's worth with these products (I can't stop touching my soft manageable hair now). The longevity on the fragrance varies between each blend, however, I have discovered citrus and spice based bottles can last days in my hair. I know I keep saying this every post when it comes to MoonaLisa, but it's the truth: where has this product been all my life!? Iced Gingerbread (Gathered Notes and Description: Realistic Gingerbread blend with mild nostalgic Yuletide spice and white icing) As it says on the tin and this is my holy grail gingerbread fragrance home at last to spray and lavish my locks anytime I wish. To touch briefly on the scent composition (I still have the perfume and argan hair oil versions to gush about shortly) this is a rich spicy cookie scent with white chocolate icing very reminiscent of the old fashioned animal crackers we are all still looking for when we pass the cookie aisle or visit little mom & pop stores. When it comes to longevity I can enjoy about 3 days of spice, vanilla and happy thoughts with Iced Gingerbread in the detangler and I have found it pairs fabulously with different floral perfumes I happen to dab in my curls; lilac with Iced Gingerbread is my current favourite and fingers crossed a certain scent artist reads this and creates this magical marriage next year. Christmas Cocoa (Gathered Notes and Description: What warms your heart and hearth more than a steaming cup of Christmas Cocoa. Hot cocoa with an espresso shot, topped with gobs of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon, chili and nutmeg, with a hint of sweet smoldering yule fire in the distance.) This is Moona's signature chocolate accord shot through with espresso and a glorious sky-high mound of realistic whipped cream with a dusting of spice and wisp of smoke. It was also one of the first bottles from this haul I was tempted to take a little taste of. The listed smoke is becoming more noticeable as this bottle is aging and I wore this detangler (along with my S'mores & Hot Cocoa perfume also by MoonaLisa) to a regional cake festival this past January and I had a few people leaning (uncomfortably) close and saying something smelled delicious while in a long line to get to the festival, so I guess those two fragrances are winners! For similar blends to look out for during the year, those that have had the pleasure to try Cauldron Cakes in the fall, you would love Christmas Cocoa. Snuggler (Gathered Notes and Description: The drink of choice while wintering in North Beach, San Francisco! Rich dark hot cocoa and peppermint schnapps.) Another fragrance I fell hard for last winter and had to indulge in a special treat for myself in 2019. The mysteries of skin chemistry still amaze me and hold so many surprises in store it seems because however how decadent and unexpectedly akin to dark chocolate cake Snuggler smells in the perfume verison, the peppermint schnapps amplifies in my hair with the detangler form and I do have to watch in case I'm taken for a holiday lush when first applied, haha oops. That punch of peppermint booze calms down though but I still enjoy this fragrance at home and may just spoil myself further next year and get a dusting powder to cover myself in. The longevity of Snuggler in the detangler is also impressive going on for nearly 2 days. Blood Orange & Chocolate (Gathered Notes and Description: Just like the traditional Yuletide candy treat! Made with only real Orange essential oil, as are ALL of our citrus oils are ALWAYS all natural! And rich, dark Chocolate fragrance and Cocoa Absolute) Sitting back I guess I collected quite a few chocolate blends with this haul and was craving something particular. Saying that, I'm sad to admit, Blood Orange & Chocolate wasn't exactly for me and I will stick with Whole for my dream winter orange aroma next year; this one although extremely realistic to chocolate covered oranges just didn't work in my hair as a fragrance. I bet Blood Orange & Chocolate would be divine in a soap or bath milk and I will try that form eventually as the orange is tart and sweet smelling while the cocoa absolute grounds it. I still used the entire bottle of this detangler and highly recommend it if you love the scent of chocolate covered fruit. Longevity and throw was mixed for this blend, certain times it would go for 2 days that I could still smell the citrus and others I couldn't smell it on my braid late that night. Ah well, that happens, can't fall for everything (and my pocketbook sighs in relief). Noona's Christmas Cookies (Gathered Notes and Description: A tribute to KC’s (Mooman) Sicilian Great-Grandmother. Made just like KC’s Nonna would make her special cookies ever year! A little of this, and a little of that) Well here's another bottle I was tempted to drink as Noona's Christmas Cookies is fresh oatmeal cookies from the oven drizzled in white chocolate, a hint of warm spice in the bottle and then has a bewitching realistic milky creaminess that amplifies in my hair. Mmm absolutely magnificent and I had to put a note on this bottle to use all others before even touching this scent confection again...and the bottle is nearly empty in June. I plan to hoard up on this scent come Yule 2020 in everything I can afford. For longevity this delicious smelling gem goes on for a day so I will definitely be layering it with the perfume, lotion, dusting powder and argan oil this coming winter to get the maxium scrumptious effect. I want to smell like a walking cookie! Argan Oil Hair Rescue formula- I can't have or recommend the detangler without mentioning the argan oil formula MoonaLisa offers because they are a match made in hair heaven and these products have worked absolute magic on my tresses. I have never had such shiny healthy looking hair. The Argan Oil I use after I have brushed out my mane with the aid of the Detangler then I add a dime size amount of argan oil in different scents to the end of my hair. If I have any excess oil on my hands I flip my hair down and place the excess in the back of my head. I run thru a bottle about every 3 months and they are worth every penny. Iced Gingerbread (Gathered Notes and Desciption: Realistic Gingerbread blend with mild nostalgic Yuletide spice and white icing) If anything the spices amplify a tiny bit more in the argan oil form which is perfectly okay with me as I can't stop talking about and stop waltzing about with this halo of irresistible gingerbread and white icing complete with vanilla extract and butter. I must hoard more next year and never run out. Milk Bath in Snuggler (Gathered Notes and Description: The drink of choice while wintering in North Beach, San Francisco! Rich dark hot cocoa and peppermint schnapps.) This was my first Milk Bath purchase and certainly not my last as the formula is gentle and moisturzing plus fragrant with a boozy peppermint patty scent I could just float in. I have also tested this item on my tresses and it works wonderfully as a mild shampoo in a pinch as well as a shaving lather and of course as a bubble bath formula (it makes a nice blanket of minty bubbles with the smallest drops added to running water). The milk bath itself is a pearlescent white when poured and the scent lasts as long as it takes to get out of my water filled sanctuary. I can immediately put on any perfume I choose and the aromas do not clash. I need this in The Rumpkin!, Kitchen Witch, Lilacs & Hyacinths (review coming soon) and my beloved Aurelia. Uh oh, this is the start of another fragrant collection, hehe. *Must mention the adorable pop-up ornament of a gingerbread house that was tucked in my order (this shop makes you feel so special with every package). I displayed it in my office at work, thank you so much Moona! Snow Ice (Gathered Notes and Description: Fond memories Moona has when a child at camp during the Nevada snows, making natural "ice cream" from ice cold snow, condensed milk, Sugar and Vanilla extract. This scent is reminiscent of that: sweet crystallized vanilla sugar and cream) Mmm! What can I say this is another holy grail perfume for me as this is most delectable vanilla I have encountered in the indie realm [claps]. Snow Ice is sublime, a true masterpiece as it's dreamy and gourmand but never childish or cloying and anyone could wear this as it isn't heavy and perfect for the workplace setting. I call this "lace ice cream" because it's so pretty, finishes off any look and yet so delicous smelling. I know this is a winter scent but I happily wear this oil all year round, very happy I purchased a full bottle. Iced Gingerbread (Gathered Notes and Desciption: Realistic Gingerbread blend with mild nostalgic Yuletide spice and white icing) The search is over, THIS is the gingerbread perfume of my dreams I have been searching for ever since I stepped foot into the indie perfume realm. We have here the ideal gingerbread scent sealed in a bottle along with a whiff of iced animal crackers I fondly remember and even a trace of butter and old-fashioned vanilla extract that appears after 6 hours. It's warm, comforting, incredibly realistic AND it stays on my skin more than 10 minutes (I finally have a gingerbread scent confection I can wear everywhere). I'm so happy and can't stop dancing! Surprise Extra Gifts (thank you, MoonaLisa: A Supernatural Clean) The Gloaming perfume oil (Birch, silver fir, spruce, Cypress, peppermint, frankincense, cinnamon bark) *a sample that appeared in my one yule order/ there were 2 and I combined them for this review. This shop is renowned for their gourmand scents but they also do realistic resins and earthy fragrances magnificently as well and The Gloaming is a perfect example. When applied it's like being directly underneath a pine tree with the needles and dirt, it's extremely relaxing and has a meditative quality I can lose myself in. I swear I smell unlisted patchouli as I'm receiving that familiar "peanut butter and metal mix" my skin chemistry morphs patchouli into with different blends and I'm in love. The refreshing peppermint appears hours later and I have been using The Gloaming to escape the June heat as I fall asleep. I hope this fragrance appears this coming winter because I would love a detangler and bath milk or bath salt pot in The Gloaming. I think Krampus Night! has some competition. Simmering Potpourri in Yuletide Cheer (Listed as "an all natural blend of All-spice, Grapefruit peels, Cinnamon Star Anice, Nutmeg, Ginger Root, Hibiscus, Sea Salt & Essential Oils") In the bag, it's sweet fruit with seasonal spices that smell like Wassail or Glogg without the alcohol and I don't know about anyone else but this and the sparkle spray that appeared in the Halloween boxes need to be permanent items with each release. When in the heated pot the fragrance is intoxicating and my house is filled with the heavenly scent of spice and fruit. Bulldog funk is no match for Yuletide Cheer as it transforms everything and brightens moods to all that smell it when they visit. I hope this returns next winter. What a creative extra something special to finish this amazing haul. MoonaLisa: A Supernatural Clean It isn't Halloween or officially fall at my house anymore without a large order from MoonaLisa: A Supernatural Clean and with this huge (beautifully presented) parcel I learned there are a hundred different variations of pumpkin, spice and everything nice that I just want to roll around in. This was only part one of my Moonaween 2019 haul. Witch's Brew Leave In De-Tangler formula- I'll open this rambling long overdue review with first commenting on MoonaLisa's Hair Detangler formula which is a true holy grail for myself and something my vanity table will never be seen without. It's not only a compulsion anymore but an absolute necessity to stock up with as many bottles of these hair-loving elixirs as I can afford every release and then hoard them away to treat myself to a unique blend every morning and night. With my (past) waist length mane, I run through a generous sized bottle about every month and half and I truly receive my full money's worth with these products (I can't stop touching my soft manageable hair now). The longevity on the fragrance varies between each blend, however, I have discovered citrus and spice based bottles can last days in my hair. I know I keep saying this every post when it comes to MoonaLisa, but it's the truth: where has this product been all my life!? The Rumpkin! (Delicious pumpkin goodies with a twist of fresh sweet lavender essential oil) Making up over half my first order comes my favourite blend from Moona known to all as The Rumpkin!. When it comes to the perfume oil version versus the detangler form there isn't any difference with strength of the scent I can comment on. All the notes morph and shift with the passing hours and this one gets attention and compliments no matter what form I don for the night. Cauldron Cakes (Deliciously sinful Cauldron Cakes oozing with melted Butter, Cinnamon, and Maple and Vanilla glaze, with a crushed nutting topping, and served with piping hot cappuccino and a tiny, tiny touch of Witching mischief!) I fell hard for my perfume sample of Cauldron Cakes in 2018 and have been patiently saving and circling the site waiting for the day I could spritz my locks to my heart's content with intoxicating maple, butter and realistic fancy cappuccino. It's divine and another rare find for myself that I can wear anything coffee noted. Out of all the bottles of detanglers I purchased this round, Cauldron Cakes lasted the longest running 3 days that I could clearly smell it when I flipped my curls. Another keeper and repurchase for 2020. The Evil Garden (The peaches, apples, plums and pears that are guarded by ferocious bears. Too bad the nurse has disappeared, but in her place has revered, gorgeous flowers that have a smell, which causes one to feel unwell. (but you won't) All these months later and I'm still trying to decipher the notes. When sprayed I get an initial blast of "airy" apple and pear that then morphs to this creepy cotton candy scent with possible freesia and almonds. It's growing on me, but at the same time, it reminds me of this one perfume I wore to my first dance many years ago that ended with me crying trying to find a ride home (thanks brain for hanging onto that lovely memory, hate you too). I have nothing against anything smelling like cotton candy, it's just an unfortunate association that always hits me. I think I need to wear The Evil Garden to a happy event and rebuild my memory attached to anything cotton candy and apple scented. On the plus side, my hair is so soft and fragrant and I do love pear with plums. Kitchen Witch (The aroma of a Kitchen Witch fills the air with sweet, haunting memories, of magic, warmth and spice! The sweet and mouthwatering aroma of creamy Pumpkin Pies, fresh baked Crusts and Cakes, melted Butter, Pecans, Brown Sugar, Vanilla Extract and a touch of spice!) Kitchen Witch and The Evil Garden were fragrances I had never tried before even in perfume samples so imagine the comical scene of me opening the cap to Kitchen Witch and making the most embarrassing noises of pure delight (nearly sticking the applicator up my nose) then racing to the nearest mirror to spray this confection all over not just my head and falling immediately in love and finally placing Kitchen Witch on the "do not use until all other bottles are empty" rotation. Well that's exactly what happened and months later my bottle is nearly empty so that plan and vow went out the window fast as the sugared pie crust, pumpkin, butter hidden orange zest and vanilla spice bomb has completely taken over my senses and I can't stay away from this scent potion. It's another divine blend to recommend and I will be repurchasing Kitchen Witch in everything I can when the times comes. Argan Oil Hair Rescue formula- I can't have or recommend the detangler without mentioning the argan oil formula MoonaLisa offers because they are a match made in hair heaven and these products have worked absolute magic on my tresses. I have never had such shiny healthy looking hair. The Argan Oil I use after I have brushed out my mane with the aid of the Detangler then I add a dime size amount of argan oil in different scents to the end of my hair. If I have any excess oil on my hands I flip my hair down and place the excess in the back of my head. I run thru a bottle about every 3 months and they are worth every penny. The Rumpkin! (Delicious pumpkin goodies with a twist of fresh sweet lavender essential oil) Just as with the detangler I don't notice any one note dominating over another and I get a perfect marriage of spice and herb with the pumpkin and lavender along with hidden smoke, apple and marshmallow. Sublime in so many ways and I reach for this scent not only in fall but throughout the whole year. What can I say, this self confessed pumpkin whore has found her holy grail blend. Lip Butters formula- This was my first time ordering the Lip Butters and if I could stop licking my lips and thinking about eating the sticks I could concentrate and properly catalogue my thoughts. First and foremost the scents are phenomenal and taste like the real thing as promised on the label. For performance, they start out solid then once applied melt on the lips and I haven't had an annoying breakouts with this formula, which is fantastic. If I had to rate them overall, I would say they are the upper middle of better formulas I have tried. They nicely moisturize, but I don't think I would use them for the harsh winter months when I need a balm with moderate repairing properties. For me, they are more suited for light work if that makes sense and I will enjoy these Lip Butters spring and summer and early fall. Onto the scents and er taste compositions! Campfire Tales (S'mores galore! Scootch up to the campfire and get out your roasting stick packed with marshmallows toasted to perfection and sandwiched between buttery graham crackers and creamy milk chocolate) Just as promised this is ooey-gooey marshmallow, realistic chocolate, a swirl of campfire smoke and BUTTERY graham cracker. It tastes like the real thing and yes I want to eat the contents. These are just a pure delight to experience so I will definitely collecting the different flavours with every release. Absinthe Marshmallow Cream (All the green goodness of Absinthe with the fluffy light as feather treat of Marshmallow cream!) My loves all in one delicious confection. Mmm. This one is amazing if you love the herbal bite of absinthe sweetened with marshmallow. Another curious blend and blind purchase that was an instant favourite. I hope Absinthe Marshmallow Cream returns in 2020. Dusting Powder in The Rumpkin! (Delicious pumpkin goodies with a twist of fresh sweet lavender essential oil) I hope everyone isn't tired of me gushing about The Rumpkin! because here's another new item for my vanity table all in my favourite pumpkin and lavender scent. I feel I'm reconnecting or channeling a lost portion of myself when I use these products such as dusting powders and if you want to feel fancy grab a canister and shake shake to be swept away or be reminded of a time of luxury and self pampering. I should have purchased dusting powder years ago as this is a marvellous experience that just leaves my skin silky soft and smelling like a delicate brush of spiced pumpkin and lavender. For more personal reasons why I adore this formula, it doesn't cake no how much I use at one time, it keeps unwanted dampness away in the unforgiving heat and helps with annoying rubbing from undergarments. I want to savor this canister as long as possible and only allow an indulgence every Sunday before a full week of night work. I have a feeling here is another collection in the making as I want this powder in all my favourite scents by MoonaLisa. Pumpkin Lavender sugar scrub I was determined with this release to explore as many various skin potions and self pampering items as I could and I have had my eye on a jar of Moona's sugar scrub for over a year. Right on opening a magnificent mixture of spice, fruit and sugared herbs hit my nose and I couldn't wait to use this formula. How very curious to note that Pumpkin Lavender smells like delectable Apple Jacks (or Jax depending on your age) cereal and a bit of butter. I wasn't expecting that, but overall what a wonderful surprise. For this mixture the sugar is fine granulated adding just enough exfoliating effect to tackle stubborn rough heels and elbows. The scent lasts even when I leave the tub and admire how soft my skin is with only 20 minutes with this jar. I will be repurchasing this scrub as well just as soon as I put a dent in this one. The jar is very generous which I greatly appreciate. Another item worth every penny! Sparkle Spray in Campfire Tales Cream (no listed notes but it smells exactly like the lip butter with a touch more campfire smoke and graham cracker) *Appeared in my first order, thank you, MoonaLisa! My dark-hearted little self has few weaknesses that I can list and one of those are ANYTHING that is sparkly and plainly speaking this spray is plain delightful entertainment as with one spritz and my arms are covered in a nostalgic twinkling fragrant happiness. It's impossible to be in a bad mood or in a negative frame of mind with this spray. I want every perfume I own to have a sparkle-filled double. I hope this is a permanent option in the coming collections. I would purchase a gallon size of Aurelia in this spray. Name your price, Moona; I must have more of these sparkle sprays! Absinthe Marshmallow perfume oil bottle (All the green goodness of Absinthe with the fluffy light as feather treat of Marshmallow cream!) This is everything I was hoping it would be. The absinthe is true and has that seductive herbal spice you get with licorice or star anise and the marshmallow is soft and powdery that morphs 6 to 8 hours into a buttery vanilla caramel scent that brings to mind Snow Ice. This could very well be a sister scent of that Yule wonder. Fingers crossed Absinthe Marshmallow returns next fall in the hair detanglers option. I want to waltz about with a halo of this glorious comforting green fragrance all year long. I'm thankful I listened to the reviews on this sweet green gem, another distinct corner of my collection now complete. Crone's Cottage perfume oil sample (Everything you would expect from an elder wisewoman's lair! Smoking embers, delicious cakes and breads baking, hanging bushels of botanicals and herbs.) *One of the many surprises tucked away in this second order, thank you so much, Moona! I believe Crone's Cottage was a new blend for 2019 and fingers and toes crossed it returns in 2020 because plain and simple it's an awesome spice and herb bomb! THIS is what I sorely wanted another extremely popular perfume from another shop to smell like on me and was hoping it would conjure- the vision of a true wisewoman's cottage deep in the shadowed forests. Crone's Cottage is straight out of a fairytale realm with the distinct aroma of realistic cakes and goodies laced with herbs that could be used to curse a first born or tempt a prince or king in the doorway to sign away his soul. Hours later, I get something resembling pepper and vanilla that continues to fascinate and delight me (it smells so good!). I adore this fragrance and will be keeping an eye out for its hopeful return. I want Crone's Cottage in a detangler, argan oil and if I start saving now, a few bath products and dusting powder. Witchery soap bar (Sultry ambers, woods and magic!) *Thank you so much Moona! You are the best💜 I'm using the "Pick Your Poison" sticker on my name badge at work🎃 The above sad attempts don't do this soap justice. It's stunning artistry with the marbling and colour shifts and yes, I'm talking about a soap bar. This is a lost art, it really is and I can't get over how pretty Witchery is in presentation and fragrance. I tried to capture the glitter and dried little lavender buds and rose petals embedded on top, but it looks only muddled in a photograph (one of these days I'll take a decent picture). Take it from me Witchery is something to display and show off. It also dimly glows in the dark; did I mention that? YES, this soap flipping GLOWS with some ghostly magic in the pitch dark and this is a first for me. I didn't even know that was possible! The scent is exactly as promised being a sultry rich amber (and possibly a little unlisted dill?) Ultra-nifty effects and presentation aside, I'm thrilled to report my finicky skin plays nice with Moona's soap. I missed out of Sea Witch this last round, that will not be happening again Halloween 2020 (The Rumpkin! I'm coming for yooou!) MoonaLisa: A Supernatural Clean MoonaLisa: A Supernatural Clean Time to share all of the decadence and a small serving of the dreamy springtime gourmands from MoonaLisa! Bubbling Brew Salt Soak in Lemon Poundcake with Carmelized Sugar (Gathered Notes and Description: Rich yellow pound cake with zesty Lemon EO, and a caramelized sugar crunch!) The scent is more delicate than I was hoping but I love the initial wafts of sweet tart lemon cake with warm caramel when the bubbles form and I can't deny this soak softens my skin and melts away any tension (like buttah for my joints and tight muscles). Next LTEC release I'm getting this fragrance in the EdP perfume form or in a detangler (I actually prefer Lemon Poundcake with Carmelized Sugar to the Lemon Sugar Cookie fragrance which I will share my thoughts on shortly). I know it is silly but I must admit I'm absolutely captivated by the artwork on the bag which has a picture of decadently dressed ladies (one is a radiant young Marie Antoinette all in her iconic finery) from the 18th century complete with colorful taffeta, farthingales, boned corsets and elaborate hairpieces. I wish I could capture the true magnificence of Moona's packaging. Perfume Oil in Aurelia (Gathered Notes and Description: Delicious ripe raspberries top this lovely raspberry jam filled white wedding cake, doused with vanilla cream, and topped with dried red rose petals and a hint of sandalwood ambered musk) Ah! How do I find the right words to describe an olfactory masterpiece and explain a true scent love story? Let me try: The sweetness and tartness of the raspberries and realistic buttercream in Aurelia are tempered beautifully with the hint of strewed rose petals, sandalwood and amber (that amps more in the crooks of my arms versus wrists or neck) easily bringing to mind raspberry sherbet (even a hint of passionfruit) on top of white cake fit for royalty. Aurelia is a complete surprise win in my book (I'm usually more drawn to dark and moody perfumes especially at the end of winter), I never knew how much joy I would get out of smelling like a walking talking frilly valentine. This beautiful scent masterpiece just melted away the winter blues for me and I can't recommend this heavenly oil enough especially if you love floral gourmands. Holy Grail status (for those wondering that's seven heavenly holy grail fragrances I have discovered at this shop). Argan Oil Hair Rescue in Aurelia So after I fell hard for my sample of Aurelia I had to get the argan oil and if possible this fragrance is even better in my curls. When applied to my own bouffant it is transformed into a fragrant billowing tower of realistic fresh raspberries and rich buttercream with stewn roses that lasts all night and I must share that after several days of slathering and stealing sniffs from the bottle(s) it finally hit me why I love Aurelia so much- it smells exactly like one of the greatest desserts I ever had the pleasure to have on my plate years ago at a special event with added rose petals and I want to drown in this fragrance. Nothing like being reunited with food memories and having incredible shine and softness to your curls. Two free samples nestled in these above orders, thank you so much MoonaLisa! Mini Guest Soap (Listed Ingredients and Notes: African Black Soap, Colloidal Oatmeal, Frankincense and Rose Oils) Where was this bar on the website because I would have purchased a full sized version. I am officially on the hunt for frankicense and rose soap now as this tiny golden coloured square holds a timeless combination that is pure mediatative and perfect for the tub. As with all of this shop's soap creations, it's extremely gentle to my sensitive skin and not one breakout to report. Basically my skin just drinks in this soap and I can't wait to grab it and race for my water filled sanctuary. Mead Moon (Gathered Notes and Description: This full moon is said to be the signal for harvest of wild strawberries. In Europe, you may also hear it called the Honey Moon, Mead Moon or the Full Rose Moon. This scent is inspired by the romance of Mead and the Strawberry Moon, notes of Wild Strawberries, Wild Raw Honey, Rose, Cedar, Oud and spice) This is a rare perfume in my collection and I can't honestly say I have anything like it to compare to so going by the notes that amp on me, it's a tobacco honey and strawberry medley with a resiny rose heart. Depending on how the winds are blowing outside I catch a strawberry accord that smells realistic and it brings back fond memories of baking with freshly picked strawberries and there is also a dirty earthy honey I can't stop sniffing. This oil can be camphorous but I personally love that about it. Found my special fragrance for June 17th. Up next, boxes of florals and a relaxing treasure for the bath to recommend. Get ready to slather and soak, springtime has officially arrived... Bath Salts in Sea Witch (Gathered Notes and Description: The relaxing and invigorating at the same time, with a fresh spray of oceanic scent is made with essential oils of Cypress and Spruce. The salts are a blend of exotic sea salts and DEAD SEA salts, Noirmoutier salts, which both are unbelievably rich with minerals and essential oils of Cypress and Spruce) I've had my eye on this item ever since I learned about MoonaLisa last October and let me tell you the wait was definitely worth it and I must remember to hoard as many jars I can next year. I wasn't expecting to be pampered by such a grounding fragrance that smells earthy yet oceanic and my home spa experience is admittedly more entertaining now than any bath should be as the "blooming" dark ruby coloured seaweed takes me away along with the soothing salts that just ease away ever ache and care. You want to feel like a pampered sea enchanter (good or bad, your choice) get these salts and lean back and relax. Ah! This jar will be in the proud empty-indie-pile in no time. Spray-in Hair Spring Detangler in Lemon Sugar Cookie (Gathered Notes and Description: Deliciously fresh and zesty exclusive blend of cold pressed Lemon essential oil, and a blend of scrumptious cookie fragrance oils makes this a mouthwatering combination, but do not eat!) I'm still not quite sure about this fragrance as I get more iced animal cracker versus any chewy lemon sugar dusted cookie, oddly. I like it but I'm looking for a combination of cookie and cake I think, maybe even with a hint of cheesecake, something tart and strong. I know that scent combination exists. In any case, the detangler will be used until the last drop. Who doesn't want to smell like an Iced Animal Cracker? Spray-in Hair Spring Detangler and Perfume Oil in Indigo Wine (Gathered Notes and Description: A fresh and gloriously blue blend of Hydrangea's and Hyacinths!) I purchased Indigo Wine at the exact same time as another hyacinth fragrance was released from a different shop and thought I would have a good old fashioned hyacinth battle royale on my vanity and head but it was a knockout by first sniff and the title goes to ...Ostara by Alchemic Muse (reviews coming soon). I know I'm shocked as well but I have to be honest, Indigo Wine although realistic in the gorgeous diamond studded bottle this is more wet garden and greenery than I wanted on my skin. In my hair the wet greenery is tempered and although exceedingly pretty it may be a little too fresh and clean for me leaning toward hair conditioner smelling which in a way works out perfectly for a hair item. Perhaps the lilac and hyacinth blend I have read about from the Summer release last year will be a better match for me. Spray-in Hair Spring Detangler in Bee's Knees (Gathered Notes and Description: Honey, honeysuckle and hyacinth) As it says on the tin, this is a rich and heady mixture of golden honey, honeysuckle and hyacinth. Out of the three detanglers I purchased from this release, Bee's Knees is my choice pick and I plan to get an argan oil of this lovely fragrance next year. *The following items and vials were found nestled in my orders, thank you so much, Moona! Bug Resist Balm (Ingredients: Cocoabutter, Beeswax, Coconut & Almond Oil, Essential Oils of Lavender, Peppermint and Lemongrass) Mint Chocalate Chip, baby! Oh yum, wait this is bug balm? Yes, dear readers, this small glass jar holds one delectable mixture that works wonders to repel late spring insects and is perfect for outside events as the scent stays close to my skin. Tried and tested as mosquitos and invisible biting flies find me a delicacy, I have been dabbing a little on when I go out on the porch to look at the moon or watch the fireflies late at night and not one bite around my ankles. I have also been using this as a curl pomade because why not? And yes at times I want to eat my hair, love this scent (I can't get enough peppermint and chocolate in my life). I'm definitely taking this balm with me for the upcoming Fourth of July cookouts and packing it away for camping. Katherine (Listed Notes: Amber, Cocoa, Woods and Rose) All hail the Queen of Gourmands as this scent artist can do chocolate notes like no other. This is long lasting regal decadence and brings to mind S'mores & Hot Cocoa but the rich Valentine's Day version and Katherine is goes down on the list as another full bottle (plus bath salts or scrub) purchase eventually. The rose, sandalwood and warm amber in this perfume is another level of captured romance and is a timeless combination. It's absolutely magnificent and a gourmand-floral to recommend. Alexandria (Gathered Notes and Description: Soft, woody, mossy, floral, and about 13 other components, with hints of ambergris, dry old book pages and a touch of intoxicating sweet labdanum) I have finally found a book fragrance without any leather and it somehow smells like scattered book pages in the winds. There is a realistic moss note in the opening that I could roll around in and I'm also in love with the wood accord in this blend. True to the description Alexandria is a soft, woody with dry book pages and a kiss of resins. I will definitely be using this oil for reading and relaxing. I wonder how this fragrance would transform in the bath? Only one way to find out, on the list it goes. Ramo's Raspberry & Rose (Gathered Notes and Description: Inspired by Famed New Orleans barman Henry C. Ramos, said to have invented this rich, potent, and frothy egg white and, sugary and cream cocktail in the 1880s, with my twist of fresh, and zesty Rhubarb, a touch of Bulgarian Rose absolute, and a touch of Vetiver to ground it out) Potent is a great way to describe this perfume on first application but it is also addicting as I can't stop smelling my wrist. Who knew Bulgarian Rose and Rhurbarb would create such a perfect garden matchup. As it dries down the tartness with floral settles and morphs into an effervescent creamy and sugary raspberry scent, what wondeful scent socrery is this? I can honestly say, I have nothing like Ramo's Raspberry & Rose in my whole collection or knew anything like this blend existed. Mmm it's so lovely and unique. A perfect scent cocktail for summer! Don't Get Your Knickers In A Twist (Gathered Notes & Description: This unusual scent is fresh and a wakeup call! Essential oils of: Fresh Lemon, Cardamom, Coriander, Patchouli & Bergamot) Dream lemon verbena and sassafras scent, is that really you?! Mmm this smells like fresh squeezed sweet lemonade and spicy lemon verbena braided with sassafras. I could happily drown in this fragrance. This is country summertime and rambling through the woods, all in one vial. Please send me everything in this fragrance. Everyone can leave now, show's over, oh wait I need to mention about the patchouli note that stays until the next afternoon with a spicy pepper note. Where has Don't Get You Knickers In A Twist been all my life? Holy Grail number eight, right here. Red, white, shiny gold paper all aglow and plaid wrapping along with gorgeous vintage artwork on bottles and bags plus candy nestled with every order! It's time to review all the self-care treats and sniff some captured memories. *Spray-in-Hair Detangler in Gingerbread Man When it comes to detanglers MoonaLisa's formula reigns on my vanity and tames my unruly locks with a supernormal ability that I can't recommend enough to everyone to try for themselves. I do seem to run through my bottles very quickly (about 1 bottle every 2 months) so I make it a necessary purchase from every release to pick up a few detanglers at a time. For winter, I knew I was going to be on the hunt for my holy grail gingerbread fragrance and even though I like Gingerbread Man it isn't THE ONE. When sprayed more citrus is released with cinnamon and I smell more of a spicy lemonade mixture versus a realistic molasses warm cookie fragrance. It may not be ideal for winter for me but I think Gingerbread Man would be divine in the hot summer months. In any case, I used the entire bottle and would repurchase it. *4in1 Shower Gel/Bubble Bath/Shampoo/Cleaner in Gingerbread Man This was my first bottle purchase of the 4in1 and I must say this product is lovely as a bubble bath, shower gel and did surprisingly well as a laundry soap (and the scent lasted on my towels!) but didn't work as well as a shampoo on my thick fine hair, sadly. It may be because I don't have high water pressure in my home but the thin consistency was not easy to get in and out of my hair (I think I'm just a whipped soap type of gal when it comes to my long mane and always will be). In regards to the fragrance again I like Gingerbread Man but I wish it would be more holiday treat versus spicy lemonade. *Argan Oil Winter Hair Rescue in Sugared Plums Another staple on my vanity is the Argan Oil Hair Rescue and when I saw Sugared Plums in the list I immediately placed it in my basket as I have been craving plum with spice. This is exactly what I always envisioned Plum Duff or Skilly ‘n duff to smell like from my favorite book series growing up (Redwall). It's sweet plums, apricots, figs and different spices (my hair amps the dark plums anise and the cardamon). It's delightful, takes my imagination away to enchanting wintertide feasts and the formula is another perfect self-care product in my book. Whoa skilly’n’duff, that’s the stuff, To keep nearby when things get rough! *Bubbling Bath Brew in Snuggler If you haven't guessed by now I am a gourmand fiend and I find dessert scents my ultimate happy time and place escape (especially for the tub) so when I fell hard for the Bubbling Bath Brew in *The Rumpkin! I knew I had to gather a few bags for the unforgiving months to come in different seasonal aromas. Snuggler was at the top of my list to get as I could never decline hot cocoa with peppermint (one of my ultimate guilty pleasures in life). Ah! This brew is divine in every way possible and is like sinking then floating in a bag of melted Andes Chocolate Candies or the inside of a classic York Peppermint Pattie. The added effect of the peppermint bubbles soothing my tired tight muscles and sore joints is a welcome bonus and the cocoa note is completely on point. Simply put, this allows me to forget I have Rheumatoid Arthritis, the cold outside world and is another lifetime repurchase. *Bubbling Bath Brew in S’mores & Hot Cocoa I know it sounds silly but every time I reluctantly leave my water filled sanctuary I believe I just experienced the closest I will ever come to relaxing in a cup of frothy hot cocoa when I use S'mores & Hot Cocoa. Yes it's true and these salts (in any fragrance) just take my imagination away along with my tired muscles, stiff joints and dry skin (it's insane my skin is softer in winter than it ever was in summer). Easily the Bubbling Bath Brews are one of my favourite purchases of 2018 and I want to stock up on every gourmand scented bag from every release and stay in my sweet smelling sanctuary for as long as possible. Mini Guest Soap in Krampus Night! A sample soap that appeared in my order, thank you MoonaLisa! Those souls following my ramblings (thank you all for reading!) know I don't have the greatest luck when it comes to soap and my ultra-sensitive skin but it's a Christmas miracle or Yule Blessing as I can use this shop's soap with not a problem to report and woah is Krampus Night! a nifty morphing little bar of soap. Let's first talk about the presentation that was about the size of a bar of fancy gourmand wrapped chocolate and it absolutely pained me to rip the gold foil as the vintage artwork on top was an old German print I would have loved to of saved for a seasonal bookmark of Krampus riding a sleigh filled with naughty children in a bucket but I wasn't gentle enough and the wrapping fell away to reveal a lump of coal-black soap which was an adorable touch! The texture was smooth and yes I raced off to the tub to use it. The scent was a collage of sweet nostalgic resins with a drop of suede and patchouli and the texture was another creative touch as it was milled with something akin to wood that brushes your skin, gently exfoliating and cleverly plays into the Krampus legend. Now, that is real soapart right there and I hope it returns next year as I want a full sized bar. *above order purchased at full price *Snuggler (Gathered Notes and Description: The drink of choice while wintering in North Beach, San Francisco! Rich dark hot cocoa and peppermint schnapps) So having never tried any of the winter releases I purchased all of these items completely by how I was blown away with the Halloween release and MoonaLisa's supernatural talent to capture realistic gourmand scents in different bottles and here is another I can't recommend enough. In the tub, Snuggler is more Andes Chocolates and cooling Peppermint Pattie with a twist of creamy cocoa but on my skin, I'm instantly swept back to one of the greatest tasting cakes I ever had on my plate at New Year's Eve party long ago. If anyone has ever had the pleasure to try a certain mint chocolate cake in gold foil supposedly from a specialty Chicago bakery that is no longer in business (according to my great aunt), you know that unforgettable aroma I'm talking about. It melted in your mouth and there were chips of dark chocolate in the cake that somehow carried a pop of peppermint that wasn't candy-like but only another level of heavenly dessert. Gah, I miss that cake (if I could taste it just one more time or find a similar recipe) and I can't stop smelling this oil as it smells exactly like it. Snuggler is another holy grail perfume for me, a treasured time in scent form and it only seems to somehow get better (even deeper) with age. A Happy Little Accident (curious pairings): Snuggler + Sixteen92's Habanera (Aldehydes, guava, bergamot flower, water hyacinth, sparkling jasmine, wild clover)= a flower straight out of Willy Wonka's dream garden! Holy cats, why hasn't anyone tried this before, the mint in Snuggler melds so perfectly with the aldehydes in Habanera and the delicate jasmine along with the water hyacinth makes a cool refreshing unique "aquatic" blending while the realistic cocoa pairs beautifully with the guava in Habanera. I smell pretty and delicious, a chocolate flower under a bubbly waterfall...Mmm... *Kris Kringle (Gathered Notes and Description: Deep in the Northern Black Forest, Kris Kringle leaves a trail of enchanting aromas as he gathers our Yuletide delights!! Blend of various Woodland Accords, Yuletide Spices, Vetiver, and Douglas Fir essential oil!) If this is what Kris Kringle smelled like in the olden days no wonder he had a gaggle of children following him, wanting him in their homes and became an iconic legend! Mmm this is pine, spices and warm baked orange cookies to me. On my skin the pine fades but unexpectedly stays (what holiday magic is this?) in the background and the old fashioned orange drop cookie moves forward taking me completely away to once happy holidays and baking up a storm for family wedding celebrations at the same time. If there ever was a perfect cozy winter scent, Kris Kringle is it. This perfume also lasts well into the next night (yes night!) and I swear I smell marshmallow and apple at one point swirled in the notes. Even though the description may sound more playful, I'm here to tell you this is also entirely work setting appropriate and get ready for questions such as: "what smells so good?" and "who smells like Christmas?". Another excellent selection for sleep as well and I have this fragrance on my list for the bath brew and lotion next winter. *Sugared Plums (Gathered Notes and Description: Delicious and seasonal confectionery concoction of traditional Sugared Plum recipe of Almond, ripe Plums, Apricots, Figs, powdered sugar, anise, fennel, caraway and cardamon) I swear everything I ordered from this release makes me so hungry and tempts me to lick and nibble the displayed contents. It's all so incredibly realistic smelling and Sugared Plums is another I could take a bite of right now. If you adore fruit scents or the smell of fruit compotes ready for the stove top or oven this one is for you as the apricot and spiced plum amps on me the most, yum! I also detect something akin to cherry but I think that is the almond note. Sugared Plums is definitely the most playful scent blend I ordered and that's fine with me. When it comes to skin versus hair for this fragrance, I prefer the complexity of notes my locks unleash and I will be getting another argan oil bottle in 2019. *S’mores & Hot Cocoa (Gathered Notes and Description: Classic marshmallow, buttery graham crackers and rich chocolate paired with steaming hot cocoa) Short and sweet: HOLY GRAIL status as this is the most realistic hot cocoa perfume I have found in the indie fragrance realm. It's magnificient with a warm rich depth of chocolate that lasts on my skin until the next afternoon and never turns chalky or waxy. There is also a heavenly fluffy marshmallow accord that swirls with the cocoa and trace of butter that all tricks me into thinking I have hot cocoa in the microwave or on the stove top I forgot about, nope 'tis I who smells so delicious and I can't recommend this gourmand oil enough to those with a sweet tooth and desire a little revisit to happier days of your youth. Iced Gingerbread (Gathered Notes and Description: Realistic Gingerbread blend with mild nostalgic Yuletide spice and white icing) A sample vial that appeared in my order, thank you MoonaLisa! In the vial: As it says on the tin, VANILLA ICING and warm and sweet GINGERBREAD Applied: The search is over, THIS is the gingerbread perfume of my dreams I have been searching for ever since I stepped foot into the indie perfume realm. We have here the ideal gingerbread scent sealed in a vial along with a whiff of iced animal crackers I fondly remember and even a trace of butter and old-fashioned vanilla extract that appears after 6 hours. Needless to say, I want a gallon of Iced Gingerbread to hoard away and will be purchasing a full bottle of perfume as well as any and all bath treats; it's warm, comforting, incredibly realistic AND it stays on my skin more than 10 minutes (I finally have a gingerbread scent confection I can wear on my skin versus in my hair). So that's 3 holy grail fragrances down and I can't wait to see what I unexpectedly fall in love with next from MoonaLisa (come on, lemon cake or creme cookie!). *above order purchased at full price Argan Oil Winter Hair Rescue in Snow Ice The more I explore Moona's seasonal catalogues the more I'm finding I want to test fragrances out first in my curls before I purchase the perfume bottles. My hair seems to unlock hidden notes in different scent potions and I couldn't wait to take Snow Ice for a whirl and I wasn't disappointed. This is warm sweet realistic homemade ice cream in a bag! It's amazing and I plan on repurchasing it in every form next winter if I can. I'll go more into the qualities of the fragrance a little bit later but I have to again recommend another stunning hair product with this argan formula, it adds incredible shine, smooths out the frizz and this is a lifetime repurchase for me like the detanglers. Spray-in Hair Detangler in Gilded Pear Gilded Pear is dulcet savory fruit, the right amount of warm spice and everything nice. I love how my hair just glows in the lamplight when I spray this formula into my locks and my hair has never been this soft and tangle-free (seriously where has this product been all my life?). This is a must try if you have fine hair. I now have a cabinet shelf filled with different amazing scents I rotate throughout the week and I want twice the many more. Spray-in Hair Detangler in Whole So this is the purchase (in conjunction with Orange Flower from LittleBits *review coming very soon) that launched me on Orange Blossom collecting crusade as I fell hard for that note at first sniff. Whole is a lovely uplifting fragrance that you just want to wrap yourself in and never be without. I'll admit I sort of zone out when I have Whole sprayed in my braid (it lasts forever in my curls too!) and I can be found with my nose pressed into my hair losing all track of time. If you love the scent of floral oranges, Whole is a must to have on your vanity or in your tub. I'm trying so hard to conserve my bottle of detangler until December but I think that is an impossible notion and it will be the next empty bottle. Gingerbread Man (Gathered Notes and Description: This is an all natural version of the traditional holiday scent! Made with all natural absolutes, co2's and essential oils of- Fractionated Coconut oil, Allspice, Ginger, Nutmeg, Clove, Cinnamon, Sweet Orange, Butter AB, Vanilla Ab, and a touch of Vetiver) Earlier I mentioned how Gingerbread Man in the detangler, 4in1 and bath brew all smelled liked spicy lemonade to me and interestingly enough my skin allows the cookie aspect of this oil to become more noticeable by each passing month. I can definitely smell the nutmeg and cinnamon along with vanilla and butter (it's more of a bowl of gingerbread dough vs. a baked impression). As the oil dries down more orange comes forward and again it doesn't take my mind immediately to winter or summer, no, this time it goes to autumn. I'm curious to pair this oil with perhaps Pumpkin Strumpet, The Bell Witch or the vial of broom flower another shop kindly sent me. Okay, let's skip summer and go straight to fall, please. Extra samples included with different orders, thank you so much Moona! Rosemary Lavender (Natural Rosemary infused perfumers alcohol spray with Wild Lavender essential oil) Exactly as it says on the tin and this is a lovely example of natural perfumery. The notes blend seemlessly together creating another ideal dream potion that I spray on everything including myself. It reminds me of the natural herb waters you find at the Herb and Flower Festivals in June. I also can't stop looking at the vintage artwork of the garden florals in septia ink. A gorgeous calming fragrance and an equally gorgeous bottle to display. Cranberry Spiced Shortbread (Gathered Notes and Desciption: Juicy ripe Cranberries ready to burst with a subtle touch of Christmas spices topping warm and buttery shortbread cookie) In the vial: Effervescent SPICED CRANBERRY and BUTTERY COOKIE Applied: Here is another vial I could easily drink as this smells like some inventive child dipped their homemade shortbread cookie in a glass of sparkling cranberry juice during a Christmas party (I'm not the only one that used to do that, right?) Suprisingly this doesn't smell soggy in the least and somehow mixes the tart sweetness of the fruit with the holiday spices and buttery cookie to create one lovely scent combination. I could see myself getting this fragrance in the bath brew or sugar scrub parfait and I must say Cranberry Spiced Shortbread is great in the work place setting; I like to think of it as a playful sparkly brooch type of scent. It adds just the right amount of fun holiday pop to your attire. Winter Solstice 2018 version (Gathered Notes and Description: Tune into quiet Winter mysteries with a blend of different sacred resins, such as Frankincense and myrrh from around the world, Nutmeg and Labdanum Absolute) In the vial: Citrusy FRANKINCENSE and MYRRH with a hint of SMOKE Applied: At first there is burst of citrus and resins but as it dries something creamy and wood-like (perhaps unlisted sandalwood?) catches my attention and Winter Solstice become a calming somber fragrance that I love to dab on for sleep. I'm kicking myself for not wearing this more to work last year as this oil stays close and has an almost mediatative and regal quality to it. I must remember to wear this perfume for the coming fall into winter. I also bet this would smell flipping amazing on a man. Note to self... Gingernutter (Gathered Notes and Description: Crumbly soft, warm Ginger Milk and Sugar cookies with Hazelnut Marshmallows) In the vial: GINGER, HAZELNUT and VANILLA Applied: I want to say I love this but the more I try Gingernutter it falls into the like category as there is something that sticks out that I can't place. I do enjoy the spiciness of this oil but wish it lasted longer on my skin and I could figure out what that odd note is that my chemistry has latched onto. It does smell warm and holiday-like but the more I sit here the more I don't think Gingernutter is for me. Can't win them all. Snow Ice (Gathered Notes and Description: Fond memories Moona has when a child at camp during the Nevada snows, making natural "ice cream" from ice cold snow, condensed milk, Sugar and Vanilla extract. This scent is reminiscent of that: sweet crystallized vanilla sugar and cream) In the vial: Homemade Ice cream! I'll take a gallon and bucket now, please. Applied: Hold on, I'm still slathering...Mmm! What can I say this is another holy grail perfume for me as this is most delectable vanilla I have encountered in the indie realm [claps]. Snow Ice is sublime, a true masterpiece as it's dreamy and gourmand but never childish or cloying and anyone could wear this as it isn't heavy. I want to call this "lace ice cream" because it's so pretty, finishes off any look and yet so delicous smelling. I know this is a winter scent but I could happily wear this oil all year round and I really want to experiment with different perfumes to see what kinds of "lace ice creams" I could make. As you probably already guessed I have Snow Ice on the list to get EVERYTHING in come winter. Hands down my favourite sample vial in this batch. *With many thanks to MoonaLisa: A Supernatural Clean for kindly sending me these different scent creations at a discount for sharing my honest thoughts. MoonaLisa: A Supernatural Clean MoonaLisa: A Supernatural Clean It's not every day I'm presented with the whole package of beautiful vintage aesthetic, fantastic scent artistry and a touch of unexplainable magic from a house of fragrance but sometimes the stars align and good things enter into your life at the perfect time and so it goes with MoonaLisa: A Supernatural Clean. From dream gourmands in gorgeous themed bottles, nostalgic scents that sweep me away to happier times and even to bath products that just melt away my stiff tired joints and muscles this shop is one I have been waiting for when it comes to the ultimate pampering delights for myself. Who knew this was the year of such wonderful kinds of self-care treats to discover and MoonaLisa: A Supernatural Clean shoots to the top of the list of favourite orders/releases of 2018 and shops to share. As I said, it's not every day you stumble across something so special or rare for yourself and for me it all started with one simple curious purchase during a favoured time of the year... One Note at a Time: *The Rumpkin! (Gathered Notes/Description: Delicious pumpkin goodies with a twist of fresh sweet lavender essential oil) In the bottle: Exactly as it says on the tin, SPICED PUMPKIN and SWEET LAVENDER. I have been searching for over a decade for this combination of notes in one bottle that isn't sharp or candle-like on the first impression. Is it possible The Rumpkin! is THE ONE? Applied: ...How do I truly describe heaven or the crown jewels of both pumpkin and lavender oils in my collection? I don't feel I can fully do this fragrance justice and all I'll do is end up rambling but here we go: I can only call The Rumpkin! pure elegant long-lasting magic (it is still detectable well into the next afternoon on me). THIS [holds up diamond-studded bottle] gorgeous scent potion is what I have been searching and waiting for years to find when it comes to the otherworldly marriage of lavender and pumpkin. It's a sweet herbal delight with some serious morphing elements as my wrists project the lavender and the crooks of my arms and neck amp the creamy almost buttery pumpkin with spice. As the hours roll on, this perfume is still captivating to my senses and gentlemen wink and fall to their knees to propose undying love as I sweep past while the other ladies seem jealous tonight...Haha no nothing that exaggerated but still The Rumpkin! garners the compliments and my coworkers keep asking me what I'm wearing that smells so good as they yank my arm and I must admit I can't stop smelling my wrists and stealing sniffs on my locks when no one is looking (but then again let them look); this is everything I've ever desired in a perfume. It's sweet, herbal, spicy and creamy plus I swear The Rumpkin! holds some unseen magic as I smell tempered white chocolate at 8 hours into the wear time. How very curious and spectacular because the chocolate is staying with my finicky chemistry, I'm seriously over the moon right now! I must have more and want EVERYTHING MoonaLisa makes now. One more holy grail fragrance off the list. *Pumpkin Batter (Gathered Notes/Description: Scrumptious, toasty bread, pumpkin puree, warm Autumn spices, vanilla frosting, creamy caramel, and juicy raisins) In the bottle: TOASTED SPICED BREAD and PUMPKIN. The wrong scent to wear when you are hungry, it's delectable and so realistic in the bottle alone. Pumpkin Batter almost smells like cinnamon homemade pretzels, now that's something. Applied: Oh yum! What a delight to find this type of combination of butter, pumpkin, bread and spice in a bottle. Right away the buttery toasted bread amps with spiced pumpkin that still carries a slightly unique pretzel aroma to it but as it warms on my skin more toasted buttery bread comes forward and a hidden honey note appears. I must admit I was expecting Pumpkin Batter to be a cake heavy fragrance like others were commenting about but this dark tinted bottle is proving it holds many delicious surprises in store and I'm falling hard for the realistic homemade bread note with honey and spiced pumpkin. Here is another fragrance that lasts into the next day and a little goes a long way. Another unique scent confection for my collection and I think I want Pumpkin Batter in the bubbling bath brews next Halloween. Forager's Grove (Gathered Notes/Description: "Blended with deep, rich notes of dank woods, sweet balsamic aromas of resinous leaves and twigs, intoxicating toasted sugared wild blackberries and hints of comforting roasted coffee") A sample vial that appeared in my first order, thank you MoonaLisa! In the vial: ROASTED COFFEE, FRESH BLACKBERRIES and something like CEDAR. It's sweet and acidic but warm. I'm a little leery as coffee can turn skunky on me but I've been having such unbelievable good luck with unique fragrances lately. Fingers crossed my chemistry plays nice. Applied: There is nothing to fear with Forager's Grove as this oil is warm, inviting and isn't turning skunky on me at all! The coffee, in fact, is very subtle and the sugar-tossed blackberries smell like they are from a cobbler and there is a measured cup near at hand of gooey buttery caramel ready to drizzle on top. I also detect the balsamic woods (even a little realistic pine resin after a few hours) and a curious note akin to fresh pencil shavings which I love and immediately reminds me of long past school days and simple innocence. I am so thankful this was a free sample I found nestled in my first order. I'll be reaching for Forager's Grove when I'm seeking cosy comforts at different times of the year. This perfume is a definite keeper in my book. *above order purchased at full price When asked about all the boxes arriving at my home at different hours in the following weeks after my first order from MoonaLisa I told those that asked: "Blame The Rumpkin!, here smell me". 'Tis true that enchanting scent launched me on a journey that took me across the threshold of a whole new collection of pampering gifts for my senses and I sorely wish I found MoonaLisa: A Supernatural Clean years ago, this shop has been around since 1996 and I just learned about its talented scent artist through a very helpful forum on Reddit this past autumn. Well, 2018 was the year I finally arrived at the party and I don't want to leave especially after falling hard for the next order I'm about to share starring The Rumpkin! of course (and this time I attempted to capture all of the magnificent presentation and wrapping but failed, it's not an unboxing it's honestly an event). Bubbling Bath Brew in The Rumpkin! Every time I open the bag of these salts I'm reminded of the vintage York Peppermint Pattie commercials where someone opens the wrapper and is instantly transported far away to something amazing and relaxing; the perfect "me time" indulgence. The same happens to me and is true about these soaks as I'm greeted not by cool mint and chocolate (that comes later with Snuggler *review to follow in early 2019) but by the beguiling wafts of sweet lavender and spiced pumpkin. The heavenly fragrance of The Rumpkin! fills my whole bathroom and when sprinkled into the tub and hot water hits, it's truly a sensation as these salts just take my imagination away along with my stiff muscles, dry skin (it's insane my skin, especially on my feet is noticeably softer in winter than it ever was in summer) and this bath brew just melts deep into my joints like buttah to ease pain. Easily the Bubbling Bath Brew/Bath Salt Soaks are one of my favourite purchases of this year and I want to stock up on every gourmand scented bag and stay in my sweet smelling sanctuary for as long as possible. Highly recommend. Witch's Brew Leave In De-Tangler in The Rumpkin! Unleashing my locks in the morning from being carefully pinned after applying this magic hair brew the night before just makes me smile and I can't recommend the spray-in-hair detangler enough. I can definitely notice less splitting and my ends are clearly quenched by something that has been missing from all the other formulas I have been using for my extremely long fine hair that delights in painfully knotting at the drop of a hat or gust of wind. Every strand is touchable (not crunchy or greasy) and expensive salon worthy. From start to finish this formula is impressive and very simple to use: shake the bottle, spray in damp hair (enjoy and lose yourself in the fragrance, imagine happily drowning in it), let sit for 5 minutes and then my brush goes right through my pile of hair as promised with nary a snag. Nothing compares with the results such as the bouncy soft voluminous (and fragrant) mane that greets me after using Witch's Brew Leave In De-Tangler and my search is over. I'm purchasing this product for life and stocking up. Highly recommend. Carpet Fresh in The Rumpkin! *a surprise product in my order, thank you Moona! To the outside world (and especially to those at my workplace), I may seem organized, polished and extremely tidy but I'm harbouring a dirty little secret: I loathe house cleaning and avoid it when I can. Seriously there isn't anything wrong with an extra speck of dust on the mantel, a bed you can't bounce a quarter off of, a few fuzzballs in the corners and a little chaotic organization (haha I definitely wasn't a maid or housekeeper in any past life). So you could only imagine my thoughts when I unwrapped this beautifully packaged product. I just had to use this though as it smelled divine so out of curiosity I called a truce against the hate I have for extra seasonal cleaning and tested this mixture against the distinct funk my loveable pack can emit in the air and the autumnal muck they manage to bring in (especially near my front door) and wouldn't you know it this stuff made my kitchen smell flipping amazing and dare I say it, I enjoyed running the sweeper. In fact, I cried "good boys!" when my dogs tracked in the grime and mud because I got to use the sweeper as my dogs just stared at me heads tilted in confusion probably wondering who this crazy lady was that danced and skipped about sniffing the air while the loud annoying machine rumbled away. Oh wait, I'm not saying I love cleaning or am turning over a new leaf, far from it but this Carpet Fresh mixture does make the chore a tad less unpleasant and the ultimate reward is my whole room is filled with a fragrance I want to roll around in. I dare say, as long as I have this Carpet Fresh stocked under my sink, my home may be a little tidier in ways. If anything I'm hanging this powder and herbs in all pretty organza bags and placing them in my closets, my vanity drawers, in my car (that is oddly spotless and uncluttered, go figure) and when my dogs and cats aren't looking hiding them high above their pens and boxes. This stuff works! One Note at a Time (Perfumes) -For how large my perfume collection is now, I rarely need to purchase backup oils but I did order another bottle of The Rumpkin! because honestly one bottle is not going to last until next Halloween (it's half gone already and it's only December). Note to self: GET A BOX LOAD NEXT YEAR and hoard and tuck them away in my purse, drawer at work and my car compartment like an Easter Egg hiding Gollum. The Coven (Notes: Bergamot, Bulgarian Rose, Champaca, Spikenard, Vanilla and Frankincense) In the bottle: BERGAMOT, SPICE and RESIN. It's an intoxicating fragrance combination and I could sit here and sniff the jewelled bottle all day. Applied: Each time I wear this special oil, I smell something new and different that catches my attention and today I smell sweet citrus with nuances of powdery rose and frankincense when I take my time. I can clearly detect the rose that has been hiding in The Coven for over a month and as I sit here typing a romantic vanilla is also appearing that swirls with the bergamot and the hints of spice that begin to amp as the hours pass then the scent fades to lovely warm vanilla with resins again (it lasts 12 hours on me). This blend is described as: "rich, sultry and velvety" and that is exactly what I'm receiving. There is something sparkling and magnetic about The Coven but also mysterious and fascinating underneath. It makes me think of an elegant alluring Masquerade Mask and I believe I just found the ideal perfume to ring in the new year with. Extra Samples included with the order, thank you so much Moona! Cauldron Cakes (Gathered Notes/Description: Deliciously sinful Cauldron Cakes oozing with melted Butter, Cinnamon, and Maple and Vanilla glaze, with a crushed nutting topping, and served with piping hot cappuccino and a tiny, tiny touch of Witching mischief!) In the vial: Mmm...FRENCH VANILLA CAPPUCCINO and a drizzle of MAPLE SYRUP. I think we have another gourmand favourite oil here. Applied: Cauldron Cakes is a fragrance that the longer I let the blend meld with my skin the happier I become and by an hour in, I have coworkers yanking at my arm to smell the most realistic cappuccino aroma I have yet to come across from any house of fragrance. It's so cosy and brings to mind a little autumnal coffeehouse next to a European speciality bakery. I must remember that even though I place more on than I can smell at first, Cauldron Cakes amps with time and I was told I could be smelled from across a crowded room at a workplace celebration (this oil upstaged 2 homemade birthday cakes, a row of creamed desserts and cookie tray, in fact, everyone was wondering what smelled so delicious and where it was on the table hehe). I never knew how much I amp maple, butter and vanilla until I placed Cauldron Cakes on my skin. This sublime scent potion is on the list to purchase in the bubbling bath brew and hair de-tangler next year (even though I find my coworkers drooling and searching all over the room with a crazed hungry look in their eyes quite entertaining when I wear the oil form, I want to keep this special delight at home for me to enjoy alone like a good cup of relaxing sweet cappuccino). Maniacal Mamie, Art of Poisoning Oil - (Notes: Hyacinths, Deadly nightshade (belladonna), Atamasco lily, Purple Periwinkle mixed with Oaks and a touch of Opponax & Helichrysum essential oil. (Poisonous flower oils are synthetic fragrances, not real poisonous essential oils) In the vial: A waterside ceremony with deep purple HYACINTHS and LILIES floating in the water. It's a beautiful and slightly unsettling blend. I love it already! Applied: I know this oil is listed under the Halloween collection but this perfume is perfect for spring and I'll be reaching for Maniacal Mamie, Art of Poisoning Oil when the first robin lands in my yard next year. I may any other day curse my chemistry for ruining certain florals but this blend found a devious accomplice with my wonky skin chemistry, together they create a truly wicked scene (think if poor Ophelia returned from the depths of the brook and had her revenge by the light of a full moon). It's hauntingly beautiful (there is even a glint of metal somehow present) and arcane. I want this unique fragrance in a jewelled 3ml bottle, the hair de-tangler and argan oil. Broom Brittle (Gathered Notes/Description: Be the talk of the next Coven meeting with notes of smoldering woods, blended into a toasted Coconut and Pumpkin Pie crumble, magically transformed into a rich buttery toffee brittle! Only a Good Witch would think of that!) In the vial: BUTTER, PUMPKIN and SWEET COCONUT. Applied: I knew my skin chemistry would get me with one of these vials sooner or later for I am a tropical pumpkin slathered in butter with Broom Brittle. I wasn't expecting the coconut to amp like this, it sadly gives me a headache and lasts well into the next day even after a shower. The toffee tries valiantly to come through but it's no match for the ripe coconut (almost smokey sweet) and butter. Perhaps it needs some more careful aging. In any case, if anyone out there loves coconut or is looking for a curious pumpkin blend definitely give Broom Brittle a wave of a wrist I don't think you will be disappointed. For me, oh well can't win them all. UPDATE (June 2019): After several months I re-tried this oil and aging and patience has triumphed again as Broom Brittle has morphed into a crave-worthy scent confectionary reminding me of a crunchy spice sprinkled Samoa cookie with a kiss of pumpkin. The coconut has been tempered with the warm spice and buttery toffee and this blend works perfectly for the summer but also easily transitions my mind away to my favourite season. Mmm another winner in my book and I think another bath time treat come October 2019 Cinnamon Blackberry Crunch (Gathered Notes/Description: A delicious blend of cinnamon sugared blackberries topping an irresistible confectionery crunch!) In the vial: FRESHLY PICKED JUICY BLACKBERRIES tossed in SUGAR and CINNAMON. I want a full bottle now. Please oh please let my chemistry behave because I seriously want to drink the vial. Applied: Mmm YISS! It's buttery, toothsome fruit with spice sprinkled on top and even has realistic crunchy crumbles and squeeze of lemon present. How does this scent crafter create such realistic fragrance confections?! Ah! Reading the About Us section on her site it says she is a certified pastry chef and she certainly does her field proud with creations such as Cinnamon Blackberry Crunch and Cauldron Cakes (plus many others which I will ramble about in 2019). They're scent perfection. I do wish this fantastic blend would last longer on my skin (this perfume and Bonfire were the ones that disappeared the fastest out of this order) so I need to remember that slight disappointment caused solely by my chemistry and to get the bubbling bath brew, hair de-tangler and argan oil in this delectable mixture as soon as those options become available next fall. Bonfire (Gathered Notes/Description: A bonfire is a large controlled outdoor fire, the word comes from "bone fire." The practice is believed to derive from the Celtic festival of Samhain, when animal bones were burnt to ward off evil spirits! Eweoooo, spooky! This scent is a smoky fiery brew, with faint hints of fields of sweet hay and a slight aroma of harvest picked fruits and mulled wine) In the vial: DARK HARVEST FRUITS, SMOKE and SWEET HAY. It's screaming fall to me and "you need this in your hair now!" Applied: We have another lovely mysterious morphing fragrance in Bonfire as it opens with fruit, wine, smoke and the most realistic "up in the hay loft" sweet hay accord I have come across from any house of fragrance yet. It takes me right back to the horse barn of my youth but there are spiced drinks waiting outside and fruit in my hands that are changing all to sliced apples as I sit here typing. Wow, this is nice and as the hours turn this perfume fades slowly and lasts only about 3 to 4 hours. I definitely need Bonfire for my hair in you guessed it, the hair de-tangler (I'm going to have a huge collection of bottles next year from all the releases from this enchanting shop). Another keeper and one to recommend for those that love scents which embody autumn. Yuletide Grove (Gathered Notes/Description: "Talk a walk under the starlight winter sky, where evergreen patches of enchanted winter forests meet exotic far East Sandalwood accords, mingled with soft, woody, smoky, sensual Amber, and wafts of sacred incense, with a touch of spice. This blend is a marriage made in heaven of two heavenly scents (Starlight Woods with Yule Wood)") In the vial: Glorious realistic sticky PINE and WOOD (almost like sawdust or the bottom of a cut off Christmas tree). Could it be I finally found a darker version of one of my favourite perfumes (Falling Stars at Winter Solstice from Alkemia Perfumes)? Applied: Alas, not this time and I'm really beginning to think my skin eats evergreen and balsam notes because here is another oil that once applied the incredible pine transitions immediately to sandalwood, amber and hints of spice in about 7 to 10 minutes. Don't get me wrong, I still really like Yuletide Grove it's definitely a cosy "wrap yourself up and read by the fire" type of meditative fragrance versus a pure atmospheric. I do love the powdery drydown with spice and creamy sandalwood that lasts hours on me and out of pure curiosity, I did dabble in some layering with Yuletide Grove after becoming inspired by others on Reddit. I never attempted deliberately layering fragrances before so it was complete surprise my first scent mashup was a success as Yuletide Grove paired marvellously well with Der Hölle Rache from Sixteen92, my friend even commented saying "not to sound weird but you smell so good tonight". Nothing like leaving with a positive note for the night. Another keeper and I would love to see how Yuletide Grove plays with something dark fruit noted but I'll leave that to another day. *With many thanks to MoonaLisa: A Supernatural Clean for kindly sending me these different scent creations at a discount for sharing my honest thoughts. MoonaLisa: A Supernatural Clean |
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28th of January 2023) NOTES/COMBINATIONS and Stones CURRENTLY ON THE HUNT FOR: Naughty Licorice/Star Anise Cardamom Cardamom Cake with Roses Smoky Honey & Leather Leather and Florals Pomegranate Colder Tuberose scents Smoked Florals with Cinnamon and Honey Graham Cracker and Incense Double strand of Rose Quartz or Moonstones or Black Tourmaline Chainmaille Jewellery Houses of Fragrance and Interest on the Horizon (shops that contain such temptations): LurkerAndStrange Good Spirit Wolf Rapt In Maille ToadStoolSoaps DSH Perfume Baphomet&Co Harvest Moon Haven Granny Hootenanny's Shop
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