BS: Santas and Santees

Subject: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,An Anon Santa
Date: 11 Oct 11 - 02:04 PM

OK now, boys and girls. Santa Mom (aka SRS) has the join-up-now thread going, so please don't miss it. THIS thread is for adult discussion on the Santa/Santee process. It is never too early to make snide comments on what you plan to send or hope to receive! Personally, I'm hoping for many many beer mats, complete with dehydrated beer.

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: artbrooks
Date: 11 Oct 11 - 02:55 PM

Used beer, eh?

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 11 Oct 11 - 11:00 PM

Are you going to do your lists of preferences (size, favorite colors, things you collect, foods you enjoy, i.e., chocolate) here?

SRS (Still adding to the name list for another couple of weeks)

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: My guru always said
Date: 12 Oct 11 - 03:55 AM

Seems to me that the Santa who likes beermats is setting this up as a teaser......

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 12 Oct 11 - 09:33 AM

do you collect unused beermats, Anon Santa

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: artbrooks
Date: 12 Oct 11 - 09:35 AM

Wassamadder, MYGAS - don't want to be teased? I think there should be a separate thread for hints, and it shouldn't be cluttered up with extraneous BS. In fact, I'll go and start one!

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: My guru always said
Date: 02 Nov 11 - 09:48 AM

On the contrary, ArtDear, I'm looking forward to being teased.....

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Hawker
Date: 02 Nov 11 - 02:49 PM

Me too MGAS, I like it when Santa teases, makes it all more fun :0)

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,Leadfingers' Secret Santa
Date: 02 Nov 11 - 09:45 PM

Ah yes - Mr. Silver. We shall endeavor to amuse and entertain. But no hints? However will I know?

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,Kim C's Santa of Secretivity!
Date: 03 Nov 11 - 08:39 AM

Oh Kim!
You got ME!
Now the fun begins.........
Have you been a good girly? Let me see.......
Hmmmmmmmmm
Got the hints
Now to look for just the right thing ......Mwa hahahahahahahaha

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,Joybell's Jolly Genial Santa
Date: 03 Nov 11 - 09:45 AM

Good afternoon Ms Joybell

No hints yet so I've gone back to 2009 to see what you said then.

Mmmmm, chocolate. Now there's a thing. Cadburys, or Green & Blacks or that American stuff? It all depends on what my elves can find. Do you like milk or dark chocolate? Does chocolate get through Aussie customs?

I'll try and get your giftie in the post as soon as possible. I'm hoping that it might get there in time for the Yule celebration.

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,JGs G'DAY SANTA
Date: 03 Nov 11 - 04:32 PM

Well tie me Kangeroo down Sport it appears my sleigh will be in upsidedown land this year. Hope I get the right G'Day

Hop hop hop wooooooooooosshhhhh Oh No it's a wombat

Santa

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Kim C
Date: 03 Nov 11 - 05:06 PM

Santa, I am always good. Well, almost, anyway.

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Joybell
Date: 03 Nov 11 - 07:13 PM

Hello Santa. Hurray! Nice to meet you. Just posted my hints. I just love presents. I like to leave it up to Santa but I do like bits and pieces of things about your part of the world. The natural world in particular. Dark chocolate tends to give me headaches these days but milk is OK. Don't know how customs is about food but it is hot here.
Sooooo you're over the sea somewhere? Hmmmm. Or ---- pretending to be. Hmmm.
Cheers, Joy

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 03 Nov 11 - 08:15 PM

What's a beer mat? Anything like a door mat or a bath mat?

Inquiring Santas want to know.

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Severn
Date: 04 Nov 11 - 01:37 AM

Maybe more like a wombat.....

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: jacqui.c
Date: 04 Nov 11 - 08:54 AM

Stilly - a beer mat is a piece of cardboard, round or square, usually printed with adverts - mostly for alcoholic beverages - placed on pub tables for standing your drink on. They can be quite interesting to read, sometimes and have become collectible.

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 04 Nov 11 - 02:19 PM

That's what I thought. I have a few around here myself. Perhaps I should start a collection for stocking stuffers?

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,Animaterra's animatedly 'appy Santa
Date: 04 Nov 11 - 05:54 PM

Wooo hooo, chance to go off on a spending spree! Got your hints on the list, so I'm heading for the corner shop for half a pound of tinsel.

Be very good - you know what I'm talking about....

big hugs from Santa xxx

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: artbrooks
Date: 04 Nov 11 - 08:31 PM

Santa?

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: JennieG
Date: 05 Nov 11 - 02:01 AM

My goodness, Santa.....I go away for a couple of weeks' holiday, and here you are! Lovely to hear from you.

Saw some wombats too. They were sleeping. What a surprise.........

Cheers
JennieG

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,Severn's surreptitious and secretive Santa
Date: 05 Nov 11 - 09:16 AM

Ho ho ho .... or words to that effect. Spotted your list of hints and got the elves scurrying hither and yon, but they enjoy that at this time of year to keep the circulation moving. No use sending you a stack of unused beer mats, I suppose?

Got a few toys to mend so can't stop here chatting all day. You know the rules - be good!

Your
Santa

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: AllisonA(Animaterra)
Date: 05 Nov 11 - 04:09 PM

Oooo, Santa, tinsel!! Shiny!

I'm so excited to hear from you so soon! I'll be reeeeeeeeeeeeeaaalll good, promise!

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,Nancy King's Dancing Santa
Date: 05 Nov 11 - 08:39 PM

Hello there Nancy!

The elves and myself (to say nothing of Mrs Claus)are having a lovely time here, finding you a stocking.....then we will be looking for stuff to stuff in it.

By the time Christmas comes we will all be stuffed.

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Severn
Date: 06 Nov 11 - 02:52 AM

Rejoice!

My wise, kind and generous Santa speaks!

Don't worry! I'll take "Be Good(e?)" to a quotient level even Chuck Berry can't surpass (That is, I'll stay out of jail for any man acts).

If you have done your homework in the archives of past Santee-hood, you'll already know about the two good luck House Brownies, Hash and McGhee that keep watch over my Laurel Maryland town-shack that any scout and/or delivery elves will have to come in contact with and who know all the other little folk in the area. And Molly, my beloved watch-cat who was always harmless enough to any wee folk anyway, has passed on, so there's nothing to fear from that end.

Secret Santa presents traditionally are not opened until Christmas, but are the first things opened once Christmas has arrived.

If your elves are also Syrup-tishuss I'll leave some pancakes out for them if nobody's u-syruped Mrs. Butterworth in the pantry.

I'll leave it to your sleep deprived elves as they go hither with their hither-than-thou attitudes and yawn to keep circulation moving, as I'm retired from the post office and don't have to sort magazines any more.

I can't drink alchohol anymore what with the diabetes, so the lure of beer mats escapes me these days. I DO own a Narragansett beer tray designed by Dr. Seuss. Paper, I don't collect on the whole.

That's all for now. Thanks for getting in touch so early. I hope that the messages will keep coming.

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Nancy King
Date: 06 Nov 11 - 06:29 PM

Woo hoo! I LOVE stockings! Eagerly looking forward to the stuff! Thanks, Santa!

--Nancy

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Sarah the flute
Date: 07 Nov 11 - 08:39 AM

Santa ? SAntaaaa ? SAAAANNNNNtaaaaa ? SAAAAAANNNNNNNNNTTTTTTTAAAAAAA?

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: jacqui.c
Date: 07 Nov 11 - 09:41 AM

I'm trying to be patient..........

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 07 Nov 11 - 10:06 AM

me three

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Barb'ry
Date: 07 Nov 11 - 12:13 PM

quadrupled

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,Jacqui C's inscrutable Santa
Date: 07 Nov 11 - 12:28 PM

Well, my dear, you have a Santa.....who is thinking long and hard about how to fulfil your every whim, and arouse your interest.....assuming you have been good of course.

Crochet, eh? Yarn? Well it should travel well, provided the unravelling elf doesn't get in the package.

Oh what fun.

SS

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,Anne Lister's Avid Santa
Date: 07 Nov 11 - 02:20 PM

Oh, Anne!

Anne?

*cough*   Anne??

Yooo hoooo! Annnnne???

Your Santa seeks guidance! Please to be going to the Secret Santa Hints 2011 thread and fill out the info! Otherwise, Santa gets to choose, and Santa can be quite, well, let's say "whimsical" and keep it polite!

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Anne Lister
Date: 07 Nov 11 - 04:32 PM

Here, Santa! Or as we say in classrooms round here, "Yma".   I have now left some hints in the hints thread, although really I'm always ridiculously happy to receive Santa's choice, however whimsical.

Thank you for asking!

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: jacqui.c
Date: 07 Nov 11 - 04:45 PM

Oh Santa, I'm always a good girl (except when I'm in evil mode, but we won't talk about that, eh?).

I've got a Santa, I've got a Santa!

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,Sarah's Seriously Silly Santa
Date: 07 Nov 11 - 04:50 PM

Dear Sarah-the-Flute -- TRY TO RELAX!
   Your Santa is here,
   Never fear!
   Gathering goodies to bring you good cheer!

Tootle-oo --
Your seriously silly Santa

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,Barb'ry's Santa's Secretary
Date: 07 Nov 11 - 05:09 PM

Do not despair, luv...'e know's yer out there.

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Barb'ry
Date: 08 Nov 11 - 03:57 AM

I've got a santa, la la la laaaa la! I love Christmas (and Santa...)

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Sarah the flute
Date: 08 Nov 11 - 12:28 PM

Phew!
I have a santa
Now I can restart trying to be good
Chill chill chill

StF

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Becca72
Date: 08 Nov 11 - 12:47 PM

Santa? I hope you're not one of those who believes in "guilt by association"...S'not my fault who my wicked step-mummy is or that I'm just like my father...

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: jacqui.c
Date: 08 Nov 11 - 01:41 PM

Becca - Kendall says thank you for the compliment.

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,Sandra's Secret Santa Somewhere near Sydney
Date: 08 Nov 11 - 02:29 PM

Sandra my dear,
The collecting has begun and I'll be sending some goodies your way very soon!! Thank you for the hints. That puts you squarely on the "Nice" list......at least for the time being!

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 09 Nov 11 - 07:23 AM

I have a Santa!!

sandra (full of gratitude & happiness)

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,JG's G'DAY Santa
Date: 09 Nov 11 - 09:10 AM

G'day G'day Jennie G
The sleigh is getting loaded up good and early
Just a few shopping days to go and we should be skybound
Just wanted to wait and avoid collision with any large rocks flying around in space at this time.
I hope you are being VERY good
Oh No - DUCK! is it a meteor - NO! it's a wombat
Splat!

Santa (getting up and dusting down)

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Hawker
Date: 09 Nov 11 - 11:19 AM

:0(

santa?

Are you there?

Helooooooo?

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,My Guru always said Hello
Date: 09 Nov 11 - 03:49 PM

And he said I'm your Santa too.
Hurray!
Making a list and checking it twice. No! three times for magic.
Off to the Secret Garden to think on it ... when purple coloured shadows mark the end of day ...
Thinking purple.
Happiness from Santa

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,Hawker's (pant) Finally Got Here Santa
Date: 09 Nov 11 - 08:55 PM

Have no fear, I know you've been a good lass. Well, have a little bit of fear. You're so easygoing that your hints are 'way too general. I mean really, "What kind of music? Folk." Well that narrows it down a bit, doesn't it? No hopes, no dreams? How about a ring size (No, I don't plan to propose.) I'm gathering things in the USA, so is there anything you'd like that's easier to get in the New World? Stuff you've heard about and always wondered about? How about foodstuffs? Sweet, savory, ingredients for your own cooking? Help!! Love from your slightly panic-stricken Santa

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: JennieG
Date: 09 Nov 11 - 11:04 PM

Santa, I am being very very good! In years gone by I recall being told I wasn't bad.....is that the same thing?

A flying wombat would not be a good thing to be under....my older son hit a wombat on the highway a few years, the score was: Wombat 1, Stephen's Little Blue Car nil.

Cheers
Jennie

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,the wolfhound clause
Date: 10 Nov 11 - 01:40 AM

woof!

it won't be easy getting Tiny the wolfhound in a box, but I'll find something that does fit

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: My guru always said
Date: 10 Nov 11 - 03:47 AM

Yippeee!!! I got me a Santa *grin* Keep those purple thoughts coming, I've been thinking Christmas for weeks. And, of course, I've been very, very good.....

What treats would you like on our mantelpiece, Santa Dear?

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: artbrooks
Date: 10 Nov 11 - 07:25 AM

Santa?

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Wolfhound person
Date: 10 Nov 11 - 08:14 AM

Woof. Lick. Paw (gently!)

Nice Santa........

Paws

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Hawker
Date: 10 Nov 11 - 09:11 AM

OOOooh! Hello Santa!
Sorry to be so general! I am waaay too easygoing I guess, but honestly, I like most things and am not overly fussy. Chocolate is lovely but I am less keen on the mega strong darker kinds, except for baking with. I love mint sweets.
Music.......I love most music really, with one exception......modern progressive Jazz - it makes me feel nauseous to listen to it! Far too random for me. Other than that, I find music & song like oxygen....necessary to live.
I like learning about traditions from around the world, so if you have any in your area, that is always interesting.
I have no big hopes and dreams, I am pretty happy where I am at the minute, Ring size? I really have no idea!
Please surprise me, I promise I'll be happy with whatever!
And thank you for being my santa, ☺

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,My Guru and all's Santa
Date: 10 Nov 11 - 03:56 PM

You have a mantlepiece in your Secret Garden, My Special One? Wonderful! Do small Robins and Hedgehogs and Field Mice perch there? I'll enjoy conversing with them. Maybe you could leave a collection of seeds and leaves and acorns and discarded feathers for me. I'd like that. My Secret Garden is, on the surface of it, very different from yours. The essence is the same.
My song-fragment up there -- "curtains" -- not "shadows". My mind's ancient. Sometimes lapses happen. Off into the Purple distance humming a Purple song.
It was a one-eyed, one horned flyin' purple-people eater...

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Hollowfox
Date: 17 Nov 11 - 11:13 AM

Santa? Lonely fox's howwlll!... sorry, I'll be patient..

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: artbrooks
Date: 17 Nov 11 - 11:20 AM

Has anyone seen my Santa? Or herself's Santa either?

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: My guru always said
Date: 17 Nov 11 - 04:52 PM

What a wonderful, mystical and Secret Santa I have! As it happens I have a small collection of Jay feathers alongside some oddities found while digging this garden. Thankfully no bones, though as Max knows, there is an Anglo-Saxon burial site just 100 yards from the Cottage.

I know you're busy thinking purple thoughts, Santa Dear, but if you get a moment to rest, perhaps you'd like to have a look around the Cottage before your visit at Christmas-tide. Here are some photos....

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,Becca72's SuperSekritSandyClaws
Date: 17 Nov 11 - 08:13 PM

Becca. I am planning a lovely array of Christmas baubles for you, but I need to know a few more things. Coffee? Tea? Cocoa? Chocolates? Are you allergic to nuts? My part of the world is famous for a chocolaty-nutty confection that I love to share at the holidays.

And never fear - I think your stepmum is a lovely lady. :-)

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 18 Nov 11 - 03:52 PM

Are all of you folks doing okay out here? Do I need to turn on the global Santa radar to track down any missing clauses? Dangling participles? Excess adjectives? :-)

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: artbrooks
Date: 18 Nov 11 - 06:12 PM

I have a santee. Jenn has a santee. Does anyone admit to having either of us? ...whine...

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,ClaireBear's Santa
Date: 18 Nov 11 - 07:40 PM

Having a lovely time looking for suitable pressies for someone with impeccable taste.

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,Santa calling Greg Stephens
Date: 19 Nov 11 - 03:48 AM

Well Greg, do you need a lump of coal?
Have you been a good boy?
Any clues?

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,Vectis' Voluminously Versifying Santa
Date: 19 Nov 11 - 11:39 AM

"Lord, protect us! Seems like I've drawn Vectis!
So please send a list or even prospectis
Of clues that shout out, 'Please Santa, inspect us!,
That you may, in your wisdom, Select or reject us,
Edit or credit accept or correct us,
So that you can bring pleasure joyous and infectuous!'

Even if you don't, I have sent out my elves
To go searching and trying to outdo theirselves
Scanning for bargains in bins and on shelves
And spots known to elves where only an elf delves.
But new any input that you do choose to add
Might influence the bounty of loot to be had.
So answer my plea and send some word soon
So that Santa might have an idea what he/she's doin'.
So to know that whatever my wee folk have seized,
That come Christmas day, you are bound to be pleased.

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,Vectis' Santa, Again
Date: 19 Nov 11 - 11:57 AM

That should read "Any new input".


Sorry, dear Santee, for any bad editing
Your Santa accepts all the blame and the crediting....

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Leadfingers
Date: 19 Nov 11 - 06:32 PM

Interesting !! I DO have a Santa , but to date have No Santee !!!!
I MUST 'do' The Hints bit I suppose

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,Mystical Santa of MGAS
Date: 20 Nov 11 - 03:54 PM

Oooooh! My kind of garden. And a lovely cottage. I'll linger a while carefully concealed, of course, when I deliver your present. Off to look around your virtual place.

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Becca72
Date: 21 Nov 11 - 01:01 PM

Sorry for the delay, Santa! I have been out of state and away from the 'cat.
I enjoy coffee, tea, cocoa AND chocolate and am not allergic to any nuts. I look forward to trying your local treats!

thankyouthankyouthankyou

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Joybell
Date: 21 Nov 11 - 10:00 PM

Hurray!! Oh Happiness and joy from Joy.
My present's arrived. Right to my door here in the middle of nowhere from Maine.

Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Santa.

Trying not to open it yet. Must be strong.
Now! off to see who's in Maine. No other clues on the box.
Am I the lucky first?
My wonderful Santa.
Joy

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,Joybell's Jolly Genial Santa
Date: 22 Nov 11 - 08:36 AM

Well, would you believe it! My elves got the package off extra early because the Post Office elf thought that it could take a while to get there, what with your customs people and all.

The elves are now running wild, congratulating themselves on a Job Well Done. (Do you know how hard it is to concentrate on writing when the little blighters are driving you crazy, climbing the drapes and squeaking away at the top of their lungs?). Anyway, now I can relax, knowing that the package has reached your door.

If you wish, Ms Joybell, you may take off the outer wrapping to find one gift which may be enjoyed early. As to the rest - it's up to you whether you want to wait until Christmas Day.

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 22 Nov 11 - 11:56 AM

MetaSanta looked at her list and the numbers were right but one assignment must have been lost in the ether. Oh, my! This oversight has been corrected - thanks for bringing it to my attention!

Any other "Oops!" items I need to look into?

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: vectis
Date: 22 Nov 11 - 03:52 PM

HAY! I GOTTA SANTA! YADDAAA!

To help you a bit.
I can play guitar and accordian and sing.
I don't need any more T shirts I have nowhere to put them and can only wear so many in a lifetime.
I am into folk and comedy stuff,music hall, sea fishing, drawing and painting (but am useless at both).
I am planning to emigrate to the other hemisphere in a year or two so something that can go with me would be great. CDs, songs, tunes to learn piccies from where you live and stuff from friends or stuff you have made would be lovely.
I collect dragons but prefer them without people or crystals and cross stitch dragons and birds .
I eat very dark (90%) chocolate but not milk or white.

Hope this gives you some ideas.

Mary aka vectis

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Joybell
Date: 24 Nov 11 - 05:26 PM

Oh Goody! Thank you Santa. Ok off to open one gift with eyes closed.
Cheers, Joy

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Joybell
Date: 24 Nov 11 - 05:32 PM

Oh so lovely. A pretty green shawl of my favourite green. So glad I chose this present. I'm off to my grand-daughter's graduation today. Many days journey by rail and road. I think I'll revise my outfit and wear my new shawl.
Thank you so much dear Santa.
Cheeers, Joy

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,Nancy King's Dancing Santa
Date: 01 Dec 11 - 12:33 AM

Nancy, just letting you know that Santa's sleigh has been loaded, the reindeer are all primed ready to go, and Mrs Claus has lit the lamps so Santa will be able to find his way home again from your house......because he has to travel far to get to you, over mountains and oceans, over deserts and snow and everything.

In other words - keep an eye out for the mail!

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 01 Dec 11 - 12:57 AM

I almost - ALMOST - gave away my treasured mudcat shawl tonight. A dear friend had a long layover at the local airport and I drove out to visit. She was widowed earlier this year, a shawl would have been perfect, except she has probably made one for herself by now, so I held onto it. I use it myself. But they are wonderful gifts, aren't they?

We need to kick this up a notch. With Dec. 1 around the corner I'll send out a few names and addresses for folks who asked for cards, and maybe we can get a few more players for that. If you want a card, or want to send a card (and haven't already told me so) send a PM and I'll mix it up. I could use a few more participants from the US and Oz.

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 01 Dec 11 - 09:38 AM

That sounded a little odd - it was late and I was tired yet still awake because of a big container of ice tea with our dinner at the airport. If ever she decides to declutter the yardage and craft stuff at her house, my friend can open a small store. But what you make and what you are given are two different things, aren't they? PMs received and will respond with a big "thank you!"

Have had responses re cards also, so we'll kick that portion of the exchange this weekend.

SRS, feeling lucky and a bit sheepish.

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Nancy King
Date: 01 Dec 11 - 01:24 PM

Ooooh! Looking forward to a package from afar! Thanks, Santa!

--Nancy

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: greg stephens
Date: 01 Dec 11 - 03:07 PM

Well if my SS is looking for hints I would say I like very traditional folk music and boats. I like extremely localised music, history, and food and drink delicacies. I wouldn't mind a good 20's/30's arch top guitar. I prefer the Stones to the Beatles, Dylan to Simon and Garfunkel, rugger to football, E Carthy to K Rusby, beer to lager, whisky to brandy, boots to shoes, porage to cornflakes, west coasts to east coasts and cats to dogs.

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Severn
Date: 02 Dec 11 - 01:44 AM

Hash and McGhee, the two resident house brownies who keep watch on my town-shack have not reported any strange elves in the neighborhood, as of yet, and they're usually up on all the local comings and goings of wee folk in and around Laurel. If I knew when they were coming, favorite foods could be set out. The local small folk like to party hearty!

To say nothing of goodies if Santa him/herself should drop by. But I trust that great fun is being had gathering appropriate materials. I hope to hear from you soon.

I'm being good for goodness sake itself and because I can't run fast anymore, and I'd probably be easily caught if diligently persued.

Hope to hear from you soon.

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 02 Dec 11 - 11:20 AM

What are the rest of you offering Santa as a midnight snack? That could be the sticking point on delivery dates! Maybe we're on to something here.

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Wolfhound person
Date: 03 Dec 11 - 04:51 AM

Be careful what you post.....very careful

http://www.joyoftech.com/joyoftech/index.html

Paws

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: artbrooks
Date: 03 Dec 11 - 12:26 PM

Santa?

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,Art's artistically aerial santa
Date: 03 Dec 11 - 07:10 PM

Hi Art

I've been away for a while but you haven't been forgotten. I'm just trying to find the perfect thing for you.

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,Sarah's Seriously Silly Santa
Date: 03 Dec 11 - 10:17 PM

Yo, Sarah the Flute! Here's a bit of doggerel for you:

Santa gets to boast --
Your prezzie's in the post!
(the bells will chime
if it gets there on time...)

Well, what can I say -- a poet I am not. I was told the package would get there in plenty of time. We shall see. And if it does, well, mind the sticker on the outside of the package!

Your Seriously Silly Santa

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,Anne Lister's Sainted Santa
Date: 06 Dec 11 - 03:28 PM

It's the Feast of Saint Nicholas himself! Inspired by that saintly man, your Secret Mudcat Santa has bestirred himself to the post and mailed your prezzie today!
Reindeer post can still take quite awhile, so don't set out the eggnog and mince pies just yet. When you least expect it, the sleigh will appear and you will be showered with Mudcat joy!
Ho ho ho!

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,Santa calling Greg Stephens
Date: 06 Dec 11 - 05:36 PM

Good to hear from you, Young Man, and our thanks for posting your likes & dislikes. We approve of your preference for beer in particular.

My Elves have been busy and your parcel is winging its way to your chimmney at this moment in time. Royal Mail have been bribed to ensure that your parcel gets to you in plenty of time for Christmas.

But beware; if you are a bad boy, and open your presents early, you may find that you are the recipient of a sack of coal. Ho Ho Ho.....

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Cats
Date: 06 Dec 11 - 06:58 PM

Pressies bought.. now I wonder who will be getting a little something from Cornwall soon....?

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,Vectis' Rhymin' With Reason Santa
Date: 07 Dec 11 - 12:26 AM

Down in Sussex, as one suspects
Vectis is vexed about who sent her gift.
In a St. Nick of time, I'll tell you that I'm
Collecting some things to inform and uplift.
You'll be getting some things that you'll be proud to show
And learn more of your Santa than you might need to know.
I've looked high and low and I sincerely hope ya
Enjoy your Christmas time cornacopea.
I think when you examine goodies like these
You can feel blessed and you don't have to sneeze.
Things to enjoy with Ian for eons.
Things you can share with Nobles and Peons.
As soon as they're loaded and packed in the sleigh
You can be sure that they'll be on their way.

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: artbrooks
Date: 07 Dec 11 - 09:06 AM

I have a Santa! Huzzah!

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,Jacqui C's inquisitive Santa
Date: 07 Dec 11 - 03:40 PM

....has just noticed that Jacqui is not at home, where the elves might expect to find her. Santa is now wondering whether the elves should be given different directions: the time planned for their departure is coming close.

So Santa needs to know very soon where to send the elves with their cargo.

Maybe other Santas know where Jacqui is hidden right now. She might be closer....or further away.

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: My guru always said
Date: 07 Dec 11 - 03:42 PM

As far as I know, Jacqui should be in the UK over Christmas!

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,Severn's somewhat stressed Santa
Date: 07 Dec 11 - 04:02 PM

There's no use at all in sending out your usual brownies, leprechauns, pixies, peskies or elves to keep a watch out for my staff, you know, Severn - I'm surprised that you haven't learnt better over the years! My elves have been meeting some of your elves in secret for top-level discussions, all sworn to the utmost secrecy, for that's the way THIS particular operation works best. We've had one or two slight hitches and snags along the way, due to the poor health of one or two reindeer (who have wilfully refused their vitamin supplements and, as a consequence, suffered from bad colds and sinus infections) and Mrs Santa has just had to spend time with her family, thus leaving me to do even more than usual at this busy time of year.
But you don't want to hear about my troubles, do you? What you need to hear, I think, is that a selection of goodies have been obtained and will be despatched very soon indeed. Hoping to make it a personal house call, but all now hinges on those reindeer. You just can't get the staff these days.

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Sarah the flute
Date: 07 Dec 11 - 05:23 PM

It's on the way hurrah
But no parcel arrived to day
Perhaps it will come tomorrow
Or I will be floored with sorrow
But no, should it even arrive
I got to wait til Dec 25
Meanwhile I will hit some liquer
As I am now seriously worried about what might be written on the sticker

Thank you Santa

StF

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,Allison A (aka Animaterra)'s rather smug san
Date: 07 Dec 11 - 05:41 PM

Tales have been told, elven reports heard and your Santa is pleased to announce that you have successfully completed the 'Pre-Christmas Goodness Test'. I am therefore delighted to announce that your present is perched on top of my finest reindeer and being blown across the skies to your door.
A little refreshment would be delightful upon our arrival - a large sherry for me and a pint of bitter for the reindeer would go down a treat!

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,Barbr'y's Santa's Secretary
Date: 07 Dec 11 - 05:43 PM

Barbr'y, Santa wants to know what, if any, equinoctial holiday you celebrate.

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Barb'ry
Date: 07 Dec 11 - 05:48 PM

I celebrate as often as possible and need little reason to do so! No religion, just happy to join in the party...

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Severn
Date: 07 Dec 11 - 10:25 PM

Thank you for the update. You seem to be the male part of a married couple and it sounds like you know me.

The assorted wee folk can carry on in secrecy, but often, when they don't, banter and story lines are allowed to develop, getting the most out of threads like this one.

I will try to sift out a clue or two from whatever else you wrote.

And if you DO make a personal call, let me know what sort of food to put out for you in a Santa sized portion along with the Purina Reindeer Chow. Hash fancies himself quite the gourmet chef, but without sufficient planning sometimes he has to send out to a carry out for childs portions if the number of elves is not known in advance and sometimes has to stand in the Elf-Service line, which takes up vasluable time.

Previous years' elf parties have been chronicled in older threads.

Do what you will. We will be ready.

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST
Date: 08 Dec 11 - 09:43 AM

Oh, Santa- that's so exciting! I will set out the glasses and make sure the fire isn't too hot- I'm looking forward to the arrival of the goods!

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: jacqui.c
Date: 08 Dec 11 - 11:23 AM

Dearest Santa - I will be spending the Yuletide in England but will return home on the 28th December. I will send a PM to SRS with my UK address if it will be easier to get the package there. However, if you are in the USA, send it to Maine as I'm happy with pressies after Xmas.

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Anne Lister
Date: 08 Dec 11 - 02:07 PM

Ooooh ... present on the way? I'll be looking out for it! I'm guessing if you're mentioning eggnog the package may be travelling some distance?
Will make some mince pies, to make sure we're not caught unprepared. Do you need any landmarks to help guide the reindeer?

Anne

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,JG'sG'DAY Santa
Date: 08 Dec 11 - 03:55 PM

Jennie G look up in the sky - there's a jingling going on
We are up and away to upsidedown land
Santa
EeeK a crocheted wombat! That was a near miss.

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: JennieG
Date: 08 Dec 11 - 03:59 PM

Oooooo Santa, I'm all excited now! Tomorrow night we are expecting a lunar eclipse, will that cause any problems to the reindeer's night vision?

Cheers
JennieG all agog

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,Leadfinger's Lazy Santa
Date: 08 Dec 11 - 10:35 PM

Well, everything is more or less collected. Now the elves need to find appropriate packaging and get it all together to send out. The reindeer are on strike, so I'm going to hitch eight tiny escargot to the sleigh...one of these days. No need to be concerned about reindeer poop, but you just might get slimed.

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 08 Dec 11 - 10:59 PM

Ewww. Gifts traveling by snail mail, on a bed of mucus?

These folks are colorful in their methods!

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Severn
Date: 09 Dec 11 - 12:45 AM

To compete with "E-Mail", "S-Cargo" is a catchier name for Snail Mail, and it could very well catch on.

They could start "S-Cargo Cults" to worship the Airmail planes on mountaintops.

Besides, Gastropod-Mail just doesn't have that ring to it.

The US Postal Service already refers to small packages as "Slugs" when sorting them

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: artbrooks
Date: 09 Dec 11 - 08:04 AM

One of your better efforts, Sev.

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,Cats' creative Santa
Date: 09 Dec 11 - 03:18 PM

My dear Cats!

Your Santa is hard at work but suspects that your pressie may arrive somewhat later than usual due to, er, certain reasons which are entirely out of Santa's control. Therefore, he has just had a little something posted from inside the UK. Note: It is not your present. It is, however, something concerning your Santa's corner of the world and was penned by your Santa's father. Santa hopes that reading it will keep you occcupied until Santa can finish preparing something more suitable. Surely by Candlemas ...

By the by, do you already have a "This Is Us" order in? Enquiring minds want to know...

Ho ho ho!
Santa

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,Severn's sniggering and still secretive Sant
Date: 09 Dec 11 - 04:53 PM

Well, well, well ... it appears a little bit of misdirection can go a long way.   Some of your deductions are on target, others not, but I know I've given you very little to go on. Suffice it to say, my dear Severn, that my delivery team have a good idea how to find you, that they will need to stop for refuelling along the way and that they're more accustomed to a glass of mulled wine than eggnog with their mince pies.
Which reminds me that I must take the latest batch out of the oven! And that's not as easy as it should be as those reindeer still afflicted with the snuffles have been using tea towels to blow their noses on instead of tissues.
Ho, ho, ho ...

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: greg stephens
Date: 09 Dec 11 - 05:28 PM

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: greg stephens
Date: 09 Dec 11 - 05:30 PM

Well, unlike last year(I am still waiting, Secret Santa!) Christmas has come early, a massive parcel arrived today. I am of course being a Good Boy and it will wait under the tree till the Great Day

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: ClaireBear
Date: 09 Dec 11 - 05:37 PM

Santa, I am being very good. Well, not actually, now that I think about it, but although I am misbehaving, I am doing it very well. Surely that counts for something...

Anyway, I wanted you to know that I am very much looking forward to Christmas. I will be all moved into my new "home" in a neighbor's garden shed by then, and I hope to have it looking all lovely and Christmassy. Not sure if I can manage my traditional Christmas Eve Santa fare -- a plate of lasagne and a glass of red wine -- without a kitchen, but I will do my best for you.

Love,
ClaireBear

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: artbrooks
Date: 09 Dec 11 - 05:39 PM

Greg, did you check the postmark date? It might be last year's package!

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: greg stephens
Date: 09 Dec 11 - 06:23 PM

definitely postmarked a couple of days ago in England. And I am pretty sure last year's no-show Santa was an Amurcan.Mind you, Secret Santas get up to all sorts of trickery.

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: My guru always said
Date: 10 Dec 11 - 03:16 AM

My Secret Santa has excelled herself and my parcel has arrived safe and sound from Down Under. Huge thanks to you, how lovely to be revisited by my Own Dear Santa - how spooky is that?

Anyway, rest assured that I will be a Very Good Girl (Christmas Panics notwithstanding) and your parcel will stay under the tree until the day itself. Many thanks!

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Severn
Date: 10 Dec 11 - 03:57 AM

I assure you that I am and have been a good man, however easy it seems to be able to find me. My Mint Spies should be through checking out the coming year's new coins in time to mull over in their noggins your whinings so that all elves, reindeer and Santas will have nothing whatsoever to complain about with the best Gourmet fixings this side of Steve Lawrence's singing partner/wife.

The mention of tea towels (to match your short sleeved shirts?) would seem to indicate that you were a Brit, or at least had visited there. One person I know over there was with me when I shopped for one to bring back home. I'd have never thought of using them as hankies for snuffly reindeer to deposit their panky in. "Run, Run Rudolph", indeed!

Speaking of Rudolph, he's the rare example of the "headlight in the deer" look.....

You say you've been baking mince pies from children's thighs with which to feed the faries? In that case, I'll leave you prepare food for your own expected visitors.

Eagerly awaiting your prescence and presents,
Your Santee

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Nancy King
Date: 10 Dec 11 - 02:17 PM

Woo hoo! I just got a package from AUSTRALIA!!! It will remain under wraps until The Day, though I am itchingly curious...

Thanks, Santa!

Nancy

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,Severn's surreptitious and serendipitous San
Date: 10 Dec 11 - 05:27 PM

Short sleeved shirts? Children's thighs? Too much egg nog, methinks, Severn. And quite what your level of goodness has to do with my delivery team knowing where you live I have no idea, and nor do any of my elves.

However I'm sure you mean well and on the scales of "naughty or nice" I have no doubt how you'd weigh in, or I wouldn't be contemplating the small sack of goodies that will be coming your way. It is a smaller sack than we might have hoped, for various reasons to do with supply, ways and means and general lack of opportunity, but it is sent with much love.

To go with the mince pies, if you can't manage the mulled wine a nice glass of vintage port would be most welcome.   Rudolph and the boys would be happy with the traditional carrot.

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Cats
Date: 10 Dec 11 - 05:46 PM

No This is Us order...
can't wait for the extra something...

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,Nancy King's Dancing Santa
Date: 10 Dec 11 - 08:28 PM

Nancy, you may if you wish remove the postal bag and place the contents under your tree, as it will look prettier than the somewhat daggy bag which the post office elves said we had to use.

Just remember, curiosity killed the cat.....you wouldn't want to have all those poor little kitties on your conscience, would you now?

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 11 Dec 11 - 04:31 PM

Today I sent out part two of the operation - a card recipient to those who requested to participate in that. I dealt myself in this time to enlarge the pool a tad. PMs were sent this morning. Two business weeks till xmas - sending early this week should have these things landing in the mail box right before the holiday.

SRS - Santa's Postal Service representative

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Nancy King
Date: 11 Dec 11 - 11:09 PM

Thanks, Santa! Will do! As soon as I have the tree up, that is....

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 12 Dec 11 - 11:06 AM

We haven't done the card thing before, and I don't remember if we actually thought the cards should be "secret" or if it was simply a chance to send a nice card to someone instead of a gift. So I'll open this up a bit.

If you would like to send a card to someone you know is participating in this secret santa and/or card thing (in addition to an address you may have already randomly received) send me a PM and ask for the address of that person.

No addresses will be published in the thread, and none to unknown folks (since you have to be logged in to send PMs, that's one filter right there) but if you don't want your address given to anyone from mudcat who wants to send you a card, also send me a PM. You might put "Don't distribute my address" in the subject line. I doubt this will be the case, but I have in the past run into folks here who were dealing with stalkers or annoyers, and I can understand not wanting addresses released in that case!

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,Art's artistically aerial Santa
Date: 12 Dec 11 - 04:28 PM

The sled is fully charged and on its way. Watch the chimney (mail box) and let me know when it arrives.

YO! HO! HO!

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: AllisonA(Animaterra)
Date: 12 Dec 11 - 04:51 PM

Santa! Santa! A curious package from the UK arrived today! It feels suspiciously filled with several enticing packages! And me without a tree as yet! I'm excited, but planning to be a good girl (better than I was last week when another package arrived from a London-based elf).
Thanking you in joyful anticipation...

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,the wolfhound clause
Date: 13 Dec 11 - 10:48 AM

woof again

your pressie is on it's way!

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Wolfhound person
Date: 13 Dec 11 - 04:19 PM

Tail wag. Lick.

The pack will be waiting for it (and the postie - but they always do that!)
We promise not to lick the elves too enthusiastically, we know small people don't like it.

Paws

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,Jacqui C's deliberately obfuscating Santa
Date: 13 Dec 11 - 04:25 PM

Well the package is ready: now, where shall we send it?

Here, or there; and is there here, or here there.
Some would say it's neither here nor there.

It'll be there, but where? And when?

Have a happy holiday, here, there and everywhere.

Santa

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,Kim C's Santa of Secretivity!
Date: 14 Dec 11 - 05:31 AM

Well Kim,
The elves have been creating havoc here and the weathyer had taken a turn for the worst, which is good for the sleigh!
As my life is at this time of year hectic, I make noexcuses when I say that your present is finally ready and will be winging its way to you very soon. Enjoy.................and a very Merry Christmas to you my dear.
Santa

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: jacqui.c
Date: 14 Dec 11 - 02:22 PM

Thank you Santa! I'll wait and see where it lands. I just have to make sure that there will be sustenance for the carrier and the reindeer at both addresses!

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Cats
Date: 15 Dec 11 - 12:31 PM

Dear Santa,
What a lovely surprise. It is really something I hadn't thought about before and it is enthralling. Your father is just so clever.
Love
Cats
xxx

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Anne Lister
Date: 17 Dec 11 - 04:17 PM

OOOH, Santa! Package collected from the post office today from New Hampshire - so that must be from you, right?   Thank you so much ... will be patient a while longer before opening it, although it's very tempting!

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Sarah the flute
Date: 18 Dec 11 - 07:47 AM

whoooppppeeeee ! I have a big box from Kensington USA - it says quite clearly. DO NOT OPEN BEFORE CHRISTMAS DAY so I am staring at it and resisting all thoughts of temptation.....this is going to be hard

THANKYOUUUUU SANTA

Sarah

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 18 Dec 11 - 02:36 PM

Good to see that packages are arriving. Is anyone still with no package or news from their Santa? Send a PM if that is the case.

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,Sandra's Secret Santa Somewhere Near Sydney;
Date: 19 Dec 11 - 10:01 AM

Keep your eyes out, Miss Sandra. The elves are fast headed your way and you should expect delivery of the "goods" by the weekend if the postal elves are being truthful!

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Becca72
Date: 19 Dec 11 - 01:24 PM

Santa, are you still out there? I hope the black cats didn't scare you away. They really are very sweet!

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,Claire bears SS
Date: 19 Dec 11 - 01:36 PM

Dear Claire Bear,
Your parcel is on the sleigh and the reindeer have promised they will look after it until it arrives with you. They hope it will be there before Christmas and have said they will do all they can to get it under your tree in time. If they don't it will be beacuse Rudolf likes to stop at every single house and eat up all the carrots and mince pies that have been left out for him.
Lots of Love
Mother Yule
xxx

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: artbrooks
Date: 19 Dec 11 - 05:46 PM

Huzzah!! Got a package from the UK today. Customs tag says 'book and CD', but 3 things inside...one is suspiciously candy-bar shaped. Chocolate...yum. 3 postcards from East Sussex - who do I know in East Sussex? Isn't My Gas from that part of the would? Is it you?

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 20 Dec 11 - 04:06 AM

thankyou Santa

I will wait patiently

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: My guru always said
Date: 20 Dec 11 - 05:09 PM

Yes I am, ArtDear, although I'm in the county of Surrey, not Sussex. Nice try but not me this time *grin*

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: artbrooks
Date: 20 Dec 11 - 08:46 PM

Sniff :( Then I guess I'll have to wait and see if there are more clues inside.

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Barb'ry
Date: 21 Dec 11 - 12:06 PM

I've got a present! It arrived this morning and is now sitting in solitary splendour under the tree! I'm not opening it until Christmas Day, but thank you santa, whoever you are!

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,Hawker's just got it sent Santa
Date: 21 Dec 11 - 06:46 PM

I just got the reindeer back from the farrier and the sled back from the blacksmith and sent your package on its way. It probably won't get there by the 25th, but it should get there within the twelve days of Christmas. Merry Christmas, dear. Your SS

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Joybell
Date: 21 Dec 11 - 07:17 PM

So glad the parcel arrived Dear Santee. We know who we are now don't we?
Have a wonderful christmas.
Cheers, Joy

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,Severn's solicitous Santa
Date: 22 Dec 11 - 03:11 AM

A little concerned that your package doesn't seem to have arrived yet .. I was assured by the reindeer (and the elves) that all was in perfect order.
It is on its way, dear Severn, and I hope it will reach you by 25th.

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 22 Dec 11 - 07:03 AM

many thanks to Vectis for a lovely card.

We seem to be having some other place's summer. It hasn't been very sunny over the last few weeks & we've had lots of rain & cooler nights than usual.

But of course, I'd be complaining if we had the usual heat & humidity.

sandra

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,Jenn Brooks' Suspiciously Secret Santa
Date: 22 Dec 11 - 07:25 AM

Watch the skies on Christmas Eve, that's when the reindeers fly(unless Icelandic volcanoes make this impossible on health and safety grounds).

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: jacqui.c
Date: 22 Dec 11 - 12:19 PM

I got a parcel in the post today! I opened the card, which shows a lovely Northumberland scene - now, who's in that part of the world.....

The presents are under the tree until Sunday.

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,Vectis' Chagrinned Santa
Date: 22 Dec 11 - 02:30 PM

I'm sorry the gift might arive a mite late
But in gold, I assure you, it's well worth the wait.
I've been burdened with sickness and things I can't tell,
But now Santa is better, and I hope you are well

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Severn
Date: 22 Dec 11 - 07:16 PM

I will be pleased whenever things arrive. I have scattered relatives and friends and I will be getting and giving gifts for some time. I trust and believe, for MudSantas have never let me down, bless their collective generous hearts. It still has a chance.

I know the US Postal Service seems to be going to Hell since I retired. After 37 years they're finally taking one of my suggestions seriously! But I still have faith in them, as well, or at least those from lower management on down.

I've gotten to know a few of the wee folk, too, through Hash and McGhee, and though a bit erratic and with a tendancy to party hard (I've never had any leftovers from the feasts I've put out over the years), I trust them implicitly, as well. Never has there been any complaints about reindeer.

So however it arrives, I'll be greatful and content with the content.

Waiting is part of Christmas, and alone, divorced and with friends and family widespread, it's up to me to do it. Don't worry, I could do it in my sleep.

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,Barb'ry's Secret Santa
Date: 23 Dec 11 - 11:48 AM

Solitary splendor? That's sad. You could open the parcel--I seem to remember one unwrapped thing, or two, in there plus two that could still be holiday surprises! Good holidays--I hope you like your pressies.

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: jennbrooks
Date: 23 Dec 11 - 11:59 AM

To my Suspiciously Secret Santa,

Since I'm on a Christmas trip,
Visiting my sweet grandbaby,
Santa, fly with care, don't slip,
The present could be later, maybe.
If it's there on New Year's Day,
That is when I'll get to see it,
Meanwhile, joyfully I play
With my family; I say, So Be It.
Safe journey, Santa, and safe home!
There's no rush, so have no fear,
(Except, perhaps, for this bad poem?)
Merry Christmas! Happy New Year!

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: artbrooks
Date: 23 Dec 11 - 12:04 PM

Ah yes, my Jenn - the meter beater.

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Wolfhound person
Date: 23 Dec 11 - 12:41 PM

Woof. Thank you, Secret Santa.

A parcel wrapped in paper covered in sweets has arrived: all the way from Australia, and arrived quite safely though I'm afraid I wasn't in the house when the elves delivered.

I'll look forward to getting my pack to help me open it on Sunday, but I'll have the contents. Meanwhile it's safely by the tree.

This is fun.


Paws

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: JennieG
Date: 23 Dec 11 - 04:51 PM

No present yet, Santa? and I have been extra special good....sob.....it's Christmas Eve here now, and it Saturday, and there are normally no mail deliveries on either Christmas Eve OR Saturday unless the postal elves make an exception today.

Cheers (sniff)
JennieG

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Hollowfox
Date: 23 Dec 11 - 10:20 PM

Santa? (woof? yip? whimper/whine?) I'll understand if things have been too busy...Things have been pretty hectic here at my den, too.

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 24 Dec 11 - 09:15 AM

my pressie hasn't arrived yet, either & it's already Christmas day here & I have only to wait till Wed when the Post Office re-opens.

sandra (thinking positively)

Happy Christmas!

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,Becca72's SuperSekritSandyClaws
Date: 24 Dec 11 - 12:54 PM

Dear Becca, your package was sent via US Priority Mail on Monday. I hope the postal elves get it there today! They should have had it there already, but since they are overworked and underpaid like most of the rest of us, I'm willing to cut them a little slack this time. :-)

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,JGs G'Day Santa
Date: 26 Dec 11 - 05:11 AM

Those naughty naughty reindeers must have gone on a jolly before doing their rounds, I am gutted that your parcel hasn't arrived yet. All I can say is that it IS somewhere up there in the sky and heading in your direction Jennie G.

SS

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: JennieG
Date: 26 Dec 11 - 07:21 AM

Santa, thank you for that message.....obviously the reindeer sampled too much Christmas cheer while on their circuit of the earth. Can't get decent help these days! No doubt it will be here soon.

Perhaps next year you might want to think of training a new troupe of reindeer?

Cheers
JennieG

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,Sandra's secret santa somewhere near Sydney.
Date: 27 Dec 11 - 12:56 PM

Hmm..Santa delivered the package into the hands of the postal elves on 12/17 with the expectation that it arrive on 12/24. Hopefully it turns up when your post office reopens tomorrow (or is it today already..?)

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 27 Dec 11 - 01:48 PM

Maybe the sleigh was a bit lopsided and slower this year. Dasher has been hanging around in the Mudcat Tavern.

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: artbrooks
Date: 27 Dec 11 - 08:17 PM

Well, Brits say Americans say 'rooster' because they don't want to use the word 'cock'. Americans says they use the two words interchangeably. I'd be more inclined to believe the ones who speak the American rather than the British dialect of English.

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 27 Dec 11 - 08:20 PM

Now THAT is a non sequitur! Art, where did you intend to post that?

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 28 Dec 11 - 04:43 AM

Dear Santa

The Post Office re-opened today (Wednesday) but your wonderful pressie was not in my post box, so I'll look again tomorrow.

sandra

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 28 Dec 11 - 04:45 AM

I meant to add I received a parcel - from my good friend Joybell & a card, so the Christmas spirit is still alive & well

sandra

Subject: RE: BS: Santas and Santees
From: GUEST,Kim C's Santa of Secretivity!
Date: 28 Dec 11 - 10:49 AM

Well Hello there KimC, Have no fear, your parcel has been sent forth, but I have heard news that the elves have broken down en route and there may be a delay, as they had to use the British Post Office System, who say it shouldnt be too long, it was sent on 21st December and will be with you presently. Hope the wait is worth it :0)
Santa x