Dear, dear Secret Santa, I am so sorry to be late with these hints. How sad and ignored you must be feeling! The thing is, I have been bringing home the bacon, these last few days and it really wears me out! But here are my most fond wishes. They haven't changed a lot since last year. Except for that age thing, go figure. Reminds me of a story I read about a couple who put a New Year resolution note in their Christmas stockings when they put them away--and one got stuck in the toe--and when the new note, which said "lose 15 pounds" was put in the stocking at the end of the holiday season, the old note was found, and it said, "Lose 10 pounds." Story of my life, Santa. So anyway, here with my fond wishes for presents are fond wishes for yourself.

1. what is your age range? I'm 58. A young 58. I think.

2. gender? female

3. Do you have a favorite color?several. Blues, rusts and greens, darker rather than lighter.

4. favorite authors/ type of book? Mostly I go to the library a lot, but see below. I like mysteries and fantasies.

5. what books have you really been wanting? A local cookbook or songbook or any knitting or beading book, pamphlet or mag would be enjoyed.

6. what type of music do you like? Most folk, but especially patter songs, humor, stories with a twist.

7. what cds have you really been wanting? None, thank you (unless you have a terrific inspiration or record music yourself). The other mudcatter in this house does a great job of choosing and playing the music here.

8. What movies (vhs is in the price range) have you been wanting? Also none, thank you.

9. what is your t-shirt size? Medium

10. do you collect anything? if so, what? Armadillos!?! Yarn for knitting (Much preferred to armadillos) or a length of cloth for sewing or beads for beading. You should see this collection! I have my own junk room! (Most people have a drawer.)

11. what are some of your other hobbies? Well, I guess I told that one above, huh? Also bike riding and folkdancing.

12. do you prefer gold-tone or silver-tone jewelry? Silver, hands down. Generally I wear pierced earrings, rarely any other jewelry.

13. please include anything else you feel is important that would help your secret santa know what you would like. Something of your craft or from your locale would be delightful.