Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!

Subject: Mudcat Secret Santa - Xmas 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 06 Oct 13 - 01:48 PM

Back by popular demand is the Mudcat Secret Santa event. If you are interested in exchanging a modest gift with someone from your same continent or from halfway around the world, this is the game for you!

Here are a couple of the previous year threads to give you an idea of how the exchange worked in the past, and you can go back probably 8 - 10 years if you search the forum database and find old threads:

Old Secret Santa Wish List

Secret Santee teasers 2012


We need to know who wants to join, so you'll have to indicate here and/or in a PM to me that you'd like to participate. Tell me where you would like to send to. If you have cost restraints then sending to your own country and in time to get the lowest postage rates is the way to go. Often the cost of postage is as much or more than the gift in the container.

T-shirrs, homemade items of various sorts, commercial or home-made CDs of your music, all of these are typical of past year gifts. Others purchase an item targeted at specific interests of the recipient (we do sometimes have people ask for a certain Santee (Secret Santa recipient) because they know exactly what the right gift will be for that person.

Small packages can contain great gifts, and none of these are supposed to cost more than $10 to $20 (US) in total. Most Santees are pleased if you send things the show your local community and cultural and music activities, and even the newspaper you use to wrap a gift can be a huge treat.

Sometimes teaser messages and postcards are part of the game, and on occasion gifts have been transported by one Mudcat member for another across vast oceans, partly to save money and partly to make the gift all the more surprising. We try to keep the name of the Santas secret so your Santees have to do some guessing, so you will need to log out to post any teasing messages for your recipient. Don't forget to log back in when you finish, and try to remember not to sign your name in your "GUEST,Santee of Severn" (for example) post. :)

Here are the questions we ask you to fill out and post in the thread so your Secret Santa has some clues to go by when making a gift selection.

1. What is your age range?
2. Gender?
3. Do you have a favorite color?
4. Favorite authors/type of book?
5. What books have you really been wanting?
6. What type of music do you like?
7. What CDs have you really been wanting?
8. What movies have you been wanting? (We are assuming you all have DVD players.)
9. What is your t-shirt size?
10. Do you collect anything? if so, what?
11. What are some of your other hobbies?
12. Do you prefer gold-tone or silver-tone jewelry?
13. Please include anything else you feel is important that would help your Secret Santa know what you would like.
14. Remember that "negative hints" such as allergies might also be helpful.

Post your interest in participating and your answers in THIS THREAD so all players can find the basics for gift giving. You may want to search the forum for threads where your Santee has posted to also get ideas.

We know the last couple of years' recipients and will make every effort to come up with a fresh name for you, but sometimes duplications happen, in which case you may have to work a little harder to surprise your Santee. Please invite other mudcatters to join this game if you think they'd enjoy it. The more players the better.

DEADLINES: Some people need at least a month to ship parcels if they go through International shippers. I'd like to have the names of all participants by October 31 so I can send the names out in the week after November 1. This gives time to plan, shop, and ship in time for the holidays.

We always seems to have a few parcels straggle and not arrive. If you would like to be a backup Santa, also let me know about that and it will keep the sparkle in the holiday for all of the players.

LET THE GAMES BEGIN!!

SRS

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa - Xmas 2013
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 06 Oct 13 - 05:44 PM

I'm in! (But for postage considerations, I'd prefer someone in US, if possible.)

Linn

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa - Xmas 2013
From: Rapparee
Date: 06 Oct 13 - 05:50 PM

I'm in.

1. What is your age range?

Older than dirt but younger than God. 6.8 decades.

2. Gender?

Still male.

3. Do you have a favorite color?

Blue. Burgundy. Various shades of green other than "bright."

4. Favorite authors/type of book?

I am omnibibliovorous. History is always a safe bet.

5. What books have you really been wanting?

Bible. Gutenberg. Red Letter. Mainz. 1456. (The original.)

6. What type of music do you like?

Folk. Why else would I be here?

7. What CDs have you really been wanting?

Good ones, of folk music and stuff like that.

8. What movies have you been wanting? (We are assuming you all have DVD players.)

Can't think of any.

9. What is your t-shirt size?

2XL.

10. Do you collect anything? if so, what?

Gold bullion. Autographed first editions of rare books.

11. What are some of your other hobbies?

Sabre, musketry and marksmanship, travel, outdoorsy stuff, reading, bothering people, thinking, fishing, music, beginning woodworking, helping veterans with VA claims.

12. Do you prefer gold-tone or silver-tone jewelry?

Don't wear much jewelry.

13. Please include anything else you feel is important that would help your Secret Santa know what you would like.

Read "The Mother of All BS Threads." There are a lot of hints in there.

14. Remember that "negative hints" such as allergies might also be helpful.

I have a very low tolerance for fast-flying bits of metal, strychnine and similar chemicals, and surgery and/or illness. I suffer fools, but not gladly.

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa - Xmas 2013
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 06 Oct 13 - 07:03 PM

Some of these are the same as previous years, but things evolve and situations change...

I really like getting things from my Secret Santa's geographical abode -- your music or that of your friends, local travel brochures, maps, rocks or shells, food -- even crumpled local newspapers used as packing material. (I have in my possession Divine's obituary in Spanish that was in a crumpled newspaper protecting something I had mail ordered. )

1. what is your age range?
64 to 64 (unless you're counting by decade -- then I'm still six). I'm not old; I'm retro!

2. gender?
Goddess, fer-pete's-sake

3. Do you have a favorite color?
Blue, green, blue green, purple, bluish purple, magenta. I avoid orange except in things I eat (and the occasional accent flower.)

4. favorite authors/type of book?
Uh, I need books like cats need wings, but brochures or books on your vicinity's early gravestones or gravestone carvers (or stonework, from standing stones to cathedrals and walls) would be a welcome addition to the library.

5. what books have you really been wanting?
Any of Jeff Faux's books.

6. what type of music do you like?
Everything from Louis Killen to Louis Prima. Prefer getting something by you, your friends or someone you think I really need to hear.

7. what cds have you really been wanting?
See number 6.

8. What movies have you been wanting?
Uh, Curmudgeon and I probably have the largest private collection in New Hampshire, USA. Old (or current) TV shows -- Boris Karloff's "Thriller" (c. 1961), Jack Lord in "Stoney Burke", "The Big Bang Theory"...PBS stuff. (I've seen all of "Rosemary & Thyme", "Boston Legal", "White Collar", seasons 1 & 2 of "Big Bang Theory", "Sharpe's Rifles", "Firefly"...)

9. what is your t-shirt size?
H for homungus (I like 'em roomy). I'm goddess-shaped, 3X is best. I don't yet have (alas) a Mudcat T-shirt or sweatshirt.

10. do you collect anything? if so, what?
Rubber (or other non-edible) squid, maps, hippocampuses, rubberstamps and printing paraphernalia, skulls and interesting bones, rocks, shells, green men, mermaids...I think I collect collections.

11. what are some of your other hobbies?
Gravestone rubbing and research on gravestone carvers, learning how to cut slate, gardening, making bead jewelry, rubberstamp art, needlepoint...avoiding housework.

12. do you prefer gold-tone or silver-tone jewelry?
Silver -- but I need jewelry like cats need wings. (Cats already have wings; they keep them neatly folded when not in use.)

13. please include anything else you feel is important that would help your secret santa know what you would like.
Edible or drinkable treats don't take up any space in the house, plus I can share them with Curmudgeon.

Remember that "negative hints" such as allergies might also be helpful.
I'm allergic to penicillin & a lot of antibiotics, blue mussels and carnations, not that I think this will really help my SS (aw, no mussel-flavored penicillin chewies!). And I really don't care for the color orange unless it's edible or a flower up against a blue or purple backdrop.

Linn

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa - Xmas 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 07 Oct 13 - 12:48 AM

You guys crack me up!

SRS

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa - Xmas 2013
From: artbrooks
Date: 07 Oct 13 - 11:19 AM

Jenn and I are in. We're currently traveling, so give us a few days to update the hint list. Anywhere is fine.

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa - Xmas 2013
From: Firecat
Date: 07 Oct 13 - 12:38 PM

I'm going to join in this year! Should be OK to send anywhere - local laws permitting. :-)

1. What is your age range? I'm 29 (30 on January 5)
2. Gender? Last time I checked, I was female.
3. Do you have a favorite color? Midnight blue, black and silver.
4. Favorite authors/type of book? I have sight problems, so any books I read are on Kindle. I love audiobooks, though! I have most of the Doctor Who and Torchwood ones, but I'd like some different ones, autobiographies, that sort of thing.
5. What books have you really been wanting? See above - audiobooks. :-)
6. What type of music do you like? Most stuff, except jazz and country. My favourite bands are Queen, The Proclaimers and Chameleon Circuit.
7. What CDs have you really been wanting? Can't think of any offhand
8. What movies have you been wanting? (We are assuming you all have DVD players.) Can't think of any offhand.
9. What is your t-shirt size? UK size 14 - 16 or Medium.
10. Do you collect anything? if so, what? Stuff with butterflies or owls on, Doctor Who stuff, Big Bang Theory stuff, teddies, coins.
11. What are some of your other hobbies? Quizzes (writing and participating), winning money off Dad at dominoes, trying to learn languages.
12. Do you prefer gold-tone or silver-tone jewelry? Silver, but the only jewellery I really wear are my wedding ring, engagement ring, Doctor Who wristband, dragon pendant and owl magnifying glass pendant.
13. Please include anything else you feel is important that would help your Secret Santa know what you would like. Even though I wouldn't class them as hobbies, I'm interested in thanatology (study of death) and law. I also adore useless facts that I can use to write quizzes.
14. Remember that "negative hints" such as allergies might also be helpful. I'm allergic to nickel silver and sodium metabisulphate.

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa - Xmas 2013
From: Firecat
Date: 07 Oct 13 - 02:52 PM

Oh, quick PS on my list. I hate pink and am terrified of dogs, spiders, snakes and various other insects. I'm also teetotal and diabetic.

My husband suggests you get a pink, alcoholic chocolate spider - but ignore him! He says he doubts a spider could drink that much. :-P

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa - Xmas 2013
From: Anne Lister
Date: 07 Oct 13 - 05:04 PM

I'm in!
Somehow I doubt if many of my answers will be different from previous years, but to put them all in one place:
1. What is your age range? Do I have to answer? Younger than some on this list, older than others.....
2. Gender? The name sort of gives it away, but if you can't guess, then female.
3. Do you have a favorite color? Purple.
4. Favorite authors/type of book? Historical fiction when it's well written (Hilary Mantel, Dorothy Dunnett, NOT Philippa Gregory ...), Fantasy, folklore.
5. What books have you really been wanting? Collections of folktales from around the world.
6. What type of music do you like? Most styles but not modern jazz.
7. What CDs have you really been wanting? Jake Bugg.
8. What movies have you been wanting? (We are assuming you all have DVD players.) We're still running behind watching the ones we have, so unless there's something unusual from round your way (and it's playable on a European machine) best avoid this one ...
9. What is your t-shirt size? XXL or bigger - I like them roomy and I'm not as slender as I'd like to think.
10. Do you collect anything? if so, what? Guitars.
11. What are some of your other hobbies? Theatre, history, walking, reading.
12. Do you prefer gold-tone or silver-tone jewelry? I don't mind but it's really best for my ears if earrings are real gold or real silver.
13. Please include anything else you feel is important that would help your Secret Santa know what you would like. I'd love to hear more about where my Santa might live.
14. Remember that "negative hints" such as allergies might also be helpful.   As in no. 12 my ears are fussy about metals. But I do love earrings.

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa - Xmas 2013
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 08 Oct 13 - 02:19 AM

YAH! my favourite Mudcat time - Secret Santa Season!!!!!!

I'm in (please) & looking at past hints, there's not much change (except age) ...


1. What is your age range?   

    Senior - 61 and a half

2. Gender?               

    Female

3. Do you have a favorite color?               

    2 of 'em - red & purple, + black (a non-colour)

4. Favorite authors/type of book?      

    Library books - my shelves are overloaded (see next question)

5. What books have you really been wanting?   

    None, really, I tend to buy what I want & then try to find a space for them.

6. What type of music do you like?

    Accompanied & unaccompanied singing - especially traditional stuff, sea songs & singer-songwriters who write songs that seem like they were written back in the olden days.

7. What CDs have you really been wanting?   

    more Mucatter CDs (but I do have a lot already)

8. What movies have you been wanting? (specify VHS if you don't have a DVD player)      

    None, I don't have a TV & I never watch movies

9. What is your t-shirt size?      

    don't wear 'em

10. Do you collect anything? if so, what?   

    too much! Mainly small dust collecting stuff like - Sheeps; Penguins; Reindeers; Boxes & tins, decorative & plain, old & new - plastic, wooden, etc; Antique & vintage needlework tools, needlework books, & examples of old needlework; Japanese stuff - papers, materials, paper dolls, dolls, small ornaments; Tiny chrissy decorations that can go on or surround my two 6" trees; Old plastic chrissy decorations from Hong Kong & Japan; Other small stuff I see & have to buy ...

11. What are some of your other hobbies?

    Crafty stuff including making cards & small quilted panels & other small stuff from Japanese paper & fabrics; Making felt toys & christmas decorations; Knitting scarves & simple stuff using my gi-normous stash of wool & other yarns; Social history & local history; Taking photos of my local area & other historical & scenic places, including pics of trees & flowers.

12. Do you prefer gold-tone or silver-tone jewelry?

    I really have too much, which I don't wear.

13. Please include anything else you feel is important that would help your Secret Santa know what you would like   

    Stuff about your area

14. Remember that "negative hints" such as allergies might also be helpful.      

    I don't eat chocolate or other sweet stuff, nor do I drink coffee or alcohol. I very occasionally drink herbal tea, but my mini-packets of assorted teas usually go out of date before I use them up!

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa - Xmas 2013
From: curmudgeon
Date: 08 Oct 13 - 10:59 AM

Tom's in -- this is actually Bat Goddess posting for curmudgeon since he can no longer see the computer and we haven't had the time to set up something like VoiceOver.

1. what is your age range? 70+

2. gender? M

3. Do you have a favorite color? No.

4. favorite authors/ type of book?    Regional cook books.

5. what books have you really been wanting? Except for some true rarities, I have them all, except for Alf Edwards' concertina tutor.

6. what type of music do you like? Traditional, older folk music (as mentioned in the book question). English and Scottish trad, sea songs.

7. what cds have you really been wanting? One of yours or one of your friends.

8. What movies (vhs is in the price range) have you been wanting? Can no longer watch them.

9. what is your t-shirt size? Don't wear them.

10. do you collect anything? if so, what? Used Britains toy soldiers, concertinas, edged weapons, single malts, rums.

11. what are some of your other hobbies? Just looked at Tom's previous answer --cooking and singing. He can no longer do either (although he confers with me on cooking, especially when I'm learning how to make one of his specialties). Tom lost his voice to vocal cord cancer in 2009.

12. do you prefer gold-tone or silver-tone jewelry? Don't usually do jewelry.

13. please include anything else you feel is important that would help your secret santa know what you would like. Small tins, jars, packs of gustatory delights from your home region. (Nothing too hard or crunchy, though, please.) And note that, though Tom is now blind, Bat Goddess reads to him every night.

Thank you, Santa - Tom

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa - Xmas 2013
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 08 Oct 13 - 05:20 PM

This year it might help if people offer suggestions about shipping to their country, or offer links to information about how to do that. It might help people decide where they want to ship to a Santee.

U.S. Postal International shipping regulations

There are rules and restrictions for what can and can't be mailed.
This list is not exhaustive, but in most cases, you can't send…

Alcohol – Alcoholic beverages (beer, wine, or liquor) are not considered hazardous but can't go in the mail. If you're reusing a box displaying alcohol brands, all logos and labels need to be completely removed.

Perfume − Perfume containing alcohol is prohibited on air transportation, and can only be shipped domestically via surface transportation. Perfume containing alcohol is prohibited in international shipments.

Prescription Drugs – Prescription medications can only be mailed by Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) registered entities. Similar regulations may apply to over-the-counter medications.

Firearms – Only licensed manufacturers and dealers can mail or receive handguns. And even though unloaded rifles and shotguns are mailable, mailers must comply with all applicable regulations.

Compare Services and Prices

SRS

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa - Xmas 2013
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 09 Oct 13 - 03:47 AM

Australia Post - sending parcels overseas check out the link to Country & Customs regulations - Did you know you can't send greeting cards with musical chimes to Qatar or valuable items to Cyprus?

sandra

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa - Xmas 2013
From: Rapparee
Date: 09 Oct 13 - 12:18 PM

I cross my heart and hope to die not to mail anything like a firearm, explosive, aerosol, pyrotechnic, or inflammable to anybody anywhere, and I will abide by all of the postal and other regulations because I know that they have been imposed for the good of society and not just to annoy the heck out of me.

Besides, I'm not that stupid.

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa - Xmas 2013
From: Rapparee
Date: 09 Oct 13 - 12:19 PM

Cyprus...hmmm...I promise not to send anybody anything that's worth anything.

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa - Xmas 2013
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 09 Oct 13 - 10:31 PM

so you'll be joining the card list, not the pressie list, & sending a home-made card?

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa - Xmas 2013
From: Rapparee
Date: 09 Oct 13 - 11:03 PM

I'll send a wire recording of myself singing lead soprano in "Der Messysinger" by Richard Wanker. It broke in several places and I soldered it back together so it should be okay.

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa - Xmas 2013
From: Amergin
Date: 13 Oct 13 - 08:23 PM

1. What is your age range? 39
2. Gender? I think I have a penis under this belly of mine...somewhere.
3. Do you have a favorite color? dark colours, black dark blues dark greens...white colours don't do well with me...I put light coloured shirts on and dirt immediately flies to them.
4. Favorite authors/type of book? folk lore/legends...preferably local to the santa.
5. What books have you really been wanting? see above
6. What type of music do you like? celtic, folk, punk, rock, blue grass any mixture of them...
7. What CDs have you really been wanting? any by you or a friend of yours.
8. What movies have you been wanting? (We are assuming you all have DVD players.) don't worry about it.
9. What is your t-shirt size? i wear 2x...i like loose knit clothes.
10. Do you collect anything? if so, what? pens...i like pens...interesting notebooks, too.
11. What are some of your other hobbies? photography, writing, admiring pretty women...
12. Do you prefer gold-tone or silver-tone jewelry? silver
13. Please include anything else you feel is important that would help your Secret Santa know what you would like. i prefer something pertaining to the santa's own area/region, music, poetry, folklore...or anything else from their region.
14. Remember that "negative hints" such as allergies might also be helpful. none

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 14 Oct 13 - 05:15 PM

It would be lovely to have some new or returning players this year. I'll keep pushing this back to the top as a reminder. If you are playing and you know someone who you think might enjoy it but hasn't noticed this (it is below the line) then direct their attention this way!

SRS

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: jacqui.c
Date: 14 Oct 13 - 07:05 PM

I'm in - info to follow.

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: billybob
Date: 15 Oct 13 - 06:11 AM

Never done this before but always wanted too, so will look at the questions and answer soon

Wendy
xxx

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: Rapparee
Date: 15 Oct 13 - 08:54 PM

Refresh -- get on it, people!!

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 16 Oct 13 - 02:44 AM

bounce

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: vectis
Date: 16 Oct 13 - 06:54 AM

I'm back in this year. New address sent in PM.

Yippee! :-)

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: Rapparee
Date: 16 Oct 13 - 02:54 PM

Mudcatters don't like presents anymore, I guess. Quelle domage, as we used to say in Tongduchon.

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: maeve
Date: 16 Oct 13 - 03:24 PM

So many have stopped looking underneath the line...
but include me this year. My info hasn't changed much, but I'll check later.

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: billybob
Date: 16 Oct 13 - 06:29 PM

1.Age? I'm a baby boomer!
2.Gender? female, very!
3. Fav. Colour? Love blue and purple.
4.Authors? Any!
5. Books I am wanting? Any always love a book about history or local geography.
6. Music? Love folk, and classical.
7. Cd's? Any mudcatters.
8. Movies? Musical.
9. T shirt size? large enough to sleep in!
10. What do I collect? Little pretty boxes and cup and saucers.
11. Hobbies? Reading. music and my garden.
12. Gold or silver? Must be silver.
13. Anything else important? not really.( but I am an aromatherapist)
14. Allergies? no none thank goodness.

Will be happy to send to anyone anywhere......so exited!!

Wendyxx

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: jacqui.c
Date: 16 Oct 13 - 07:52 PM

1. What is your age range? 66

2. Gender? Female

3. Do you have a favorite color? Indigo, Violet, Black, Red, Autumn colours.

4. Favorite authors/type of book? I have too many books now!

5. What books have you really been wanting? See above

6. What type of music do you like? Most - not Rap or Jazz

7. What CDs have you really been wanting? None right now but one of your own would be nice.

8. What movies have you been wanting? (specify VHS if you don't have a DVD player)None right now

9. What is your t-shirt size? X-Large

10. Do you collect anything? if so, what? Yarn, earrings

11. What are some of your other hobbies? Crochet (not knitting!)

12. Do you prefer gold-tone or silver-tone jewelry? Has to be silver (allergies)

13. Please include anything else you feel is important that would help your Secret Santa know what you would like - anything local or peculiar to my Santa.

14. Remember that "negative hints" such as allergies might also be helpful. No sugar, chocolate or carbs and I'm allergic to nickel.

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 17 Oct 13 - 09:35 AM

This is looking good! Continue to spread the word and invite more participants! Thanks!

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 19 Oct 13 - 07:35 PM

We still have a few days to gather names! Wondering how it will work? It's simple - we mix up the names and try to fill requests - do you want to send a gift to someone in the same country or continent, or do you want to send abroad? Send your name and full address then post hints in this thread. See the other hints already posted for ideas. I'll let you know who your "Santee" is and off you go! You can keep it secret to let your Santee guess, or you can let them know who you are. Or you can get sneaky and have someone else mail or deliver the gift. The creativity is up to you!

SRS

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 20 Oct 13 - 10:31 AM

up to the top again

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: ranger1
Date: 20 Oct 13 - 04:22 PM

I have been debating, as I dropped the ball a previous year (depression is so much fun, NOT!), but I'm feeling pretty good these days. So yeah, I'm in.

Hints to follow later.

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 21 Oct 13 - 08:08 PM

numbers are growing!

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: Severn
Date: 21 Oct 13 - 09:22 PM

Count me in. My tastes haven't changed from previous years but I'll post a new set of information soon.

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 22 Oct 13 - 12:22 PM

Good! But maybe one way to change up the game for players who have participated in the past is to find a few different things to list in your hints. What other interests do you have that your Santa might want to explore?

SRS

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: Hollowfox
Date: 22 Oct 13 - 04:55 PM

Count me in, info to follow.

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 22 Oct 13 - 09:54 PM

Good to see you again!

SRS

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: Becca72
Date: 24 Oct 13 - 12:01 PM

1. What is your age range? 41 (does this mean in January I'll have all the answers??)

2. Gender? Still Female

3. Do you have a favorite color? purple, black, emerald green, rich bright blue, gem tones.

4. Favorite authors/type of book? I am at max capacity on books, thanks

5. What books have you really been wanting? See above

6. What type of music do you like? Classic rock, 80s, metal

7. What CDs have you really been wanting? Tom Keiffer

8. What movies have you been wanting? (specify VHS if you don't have a DVD player) I would LOVE Torchwood, Doctor Who or Being Human (brit version) on DVD (Whatever region the States are)

9. What is your t-shirt size? 3XL (plenty of room)

10. Do you collect anything? if so, what? Black cat "stuff", Star Wars "stuff", dust.

11. What are some of your other hobbies? teaching myself (slowly) to knit, reading, music, ice hockey (watching - Go Caps!)


12. Do you prefer gold-tone or silver-tone jewelry? Silver

13. Please include anything else you feel is important that would help your Secret Santa know what you would like. I'm pretty easy to please

14. Remember that "negative hints" such as allergies might also be helpful. Tons of fragrance and skin allergies so no scented stuff or lotions/potions, please. Also allergic to wool.   
One fragrance I LOVE and wear regularly is Moonlight Path from Bath and Body Works...

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: greg stephens
Date: 24 Oct 13 - 12:36 PM

I'm in. Will PM.
AS regards my likes: things local to my kind Santa, whether music, treats (potable or edible),guidebooks, newspaper, folding currency

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 24 Oct 13 - 11:54 PM

Heh. "Folding currency." Good one!

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: Rapparee
Date: 25 Oct 13 - 09:54 AM

"Folding currency." No problem, I have lots of play money and a copier.

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: Rapparee
Date: 25 Oct 13 - 10:00 PM

Tell your friends, if you have any, to join us. In fact, if they do not I will personally send Chongo Chimp to insure that they pay for their foolishness.

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 25 Oct 13 - 11:15 PM

We're getting close to time to compile a couple of lists, so round up any more players you can think of - this really is a pleasure to participate it.

If there are any people who would like to be free agents, I have in mind a couple of projects I'd like to run past you. Drop me a PM. This is somewhat related, but not part of Secret Santa.

SRS

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: Rapparee
Date: 26 Oct 13 - 11:06 PM

If you aren't with us you are against us and don't like presents.

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: My guru always said
Date: 27 Oct 13 - 07:14 AM

I'm back in and I LOVE presents!

Apologies that this is mostly copied & pasted, no rest for the wicked *sigh*

Female, just over 50, love Purple, Black, Greens & Blues - definitely not red!

Books: Have read all Terry Pratchett's and have a good collection of his Hard-back First Editions (apart from Discworld 1st & 2nd books - but they're nearly into 4 figures now so please don't worry about searching for them!!). Any science fantasy, dragons & wizzzzards, fiction, thrillers (have read almost all of Clive Cussler and Wilbur Smith, Alexander Kent, Barbara Erskine, Carlos Castenada to name a few), crime etc. Second-hand is preferred, dogeared and with broken spines are perfectly acceptable, shows they're recommended!

Musical taste: Traditional Folk, a capella singing, contempory folk, female voice - anything that's good, stuff you've done, anything of Catters, ones with good songs to try!!

Not into movies or DVD's - rarely get time in front of the TV.

Size: still Large - I like chocolate a lot (no fruit or nuts) and I'm still quite good at ice-cream cocktails!

Am accumulating an interesting collection of crafty earrings, pierced & dangly!!! Silver-tone seems to go best with my favourite colours. Seem to have accumulated stones from various places & beaches... Love Cats, Birds, Chocolate (too much), gardening, plants & trees, secret gardens, interesting places, earth powers, intuition & friendship.

Allergies yes, mainly alkaline-forming foods (have never eaten fruit so that's a definite negative). Luckily there aren't many other negatives in my life apart from the food!

Happy to read any packing material too, as long as it isn't technical stuff that is!

Hmm - not much has changed, again!!
Still gotta Basic Web-page!

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: ranger1
Date: 27 Oct 13 - 08:27 AM

1. What is your age range? 40s

2. Gender? female

3. Do you have a favorite color? red, dark green, blues, earth tones. No pastels, pinks, or purples, thank you.

4. Favorite authors/type of book? Don't need any more books. Unless my Santa is Australian. Then field guides would be lovely. Or anything to do with local history or nature.

5. What books have you really been wanting? See above

6. What type of music do you like? Pretty much everything except opera and jazz

7. What CDs have you really been wanting? Local music or something by my Santa.

8. What movies have you been wanting? (We are assuming you all have DVD players.) I'm good on the movies, thanks.

9. What is your t-shirt size? Medium

10. Do you collect anything? if so, what? Horseshoe crabs, frogs, field guides and other natural history books, shiny rocks.

11. What are some of your other hobbies? Photography, cross-stitching, bird watching, natural history, hiking, video games

12. Do you prefer gold-tone or silver-tone jewelry? I don't wear much jewelry, but on the rare occasions when I do, silver. I do not have pierced ears.

13. Please include anything else you feel is important that would help your Secret Santa know what you would like. I like chocolate. I am fascinated by the world around me - nature, different cultures, geography, etc.

14. Remember that "negative hints" such as allergies might also be helpful. I live in a 400 square foot cottage, so less is more when it comes to things that take up space. I don't wear scarves. I am allergic to most commercial lotions and soaps (dyes and perfumes).

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: dulcimer42
Date: 28 Oct 13 - 08:08 PM

I'm in! I look forward to this every year!

1. What is your age range? 70, but not the old kind. Very active and involved in community ;D
2. Gender? Female,
3. Do you have a favorite color? not really
4. Favorite authors/type of book? non-fiction. particulary biographical.
5. What books have you really been wanting? ?
6. What type of music do you like? folk, gospel, whatever I can sing along with in the car
7. What CDs have you really been wanting? ?
8. What movies have you been wanting? (We are assuming you all have DVD players.) Don't watch many movies
9. What is your t-shirt size? L
10. Do you collect anything? if so, what? antique music instruments
11. What are some of your other hobbies? playing hammered dulcimer, celtic harp, mountain dulcimer. Attending music festivals. Organizer of Raintree Music Heritage Festival, May 9-10, 2014. Very small summer garden.   
12. Do you prefer gold-tone or silver-tone jewelry? either
13. Please include anything else you feel is important that would help your Secret Santa know what you would like.   I always appreciate items typical of where my Secret Santa lives.
14. Remember that "negative hints" such as allergies might also be helpful.

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: dulcimer42
Date: 28 Oct 13 - 08:12 PM

I just posted a boring list of my "likes."   I did forget to mention, I would love being Santa or recipient from any other country, if you are not overwhelmed with such requests.

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: dulcimer42
Date: 28 Oct 13 - 09:27 PM

By the way, what is a free agent?   I might be interested.

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: jacqui.c
Date: 29 Oct 13 - 01:29 PM

Dulcimer - PM SRS for details.

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: Severn
Date: 29 Oct 13 - 01:47 PM

Age: 64 going on 65

Still male, according to the engendered species list.

Preferred Colors: Blue, green or yellow, being an aging redhead.

Books: song books of local or regional music or musical history, regional history in general (nautical is nice), mysteries w/ your favorite sleuth (or sleeth?)

Your choice on books.

Music: A wide range of tastes, but again, regional traditional folk music and/or music from your favorite local musicians, to give me a bit of a flavor of where you live. Some of your own music, if you've recorded any.

Again, your choice.

I have enough movies.

T-shirt size: XL

Collections: books, recordings (LPs, tapes, but preferably CDs), old porcelain enamel advertising signs and thermometers, rent money.....

I sing, but play no instrument. I help run a local sing.

Not a jewelry person.

Diabetic, and a cancer survivor. No allergies.


Thanks in advance

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 29 Oct 13 - 01:59 PM

I'm still planning to start matching up names on Nov. 1 and sending out assignments shortly thereafter. If you discover this activity thread late you can still post and contact me and we can still match you up, but the bulk of the Secret Santa activity will be based upon having a whole bunch of names to mix and match in early November.

SRS

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: maeve
Date: 29 Oct 13 - 03:37 PM

Dear Secret Santa,

I am an adult female human being. Sea and plant colors delight - periwinkle blue, turquoise, amber, moss agate, flaming poppies,leaf green, seal grey, evening and morning sky....I like things from your part of the world- a shell, a carving, a water-smoothed stone, a bit of music. Special tiles and colorful/colourful bits of pottery will become a mosaic in our new home.

For hobbies, we enjoy music, artwork, weaving, basketry, woodcraft, knitting, lacemaking, quilting, leatherwork, gardening, woodcarving, pottery, writing about our lives here, beadwork, and spinning (always looking for new fibers to spin.) Our bantam chickens are dear to our hearts and our apple, peach, plum, and pear orchards are young but daily growing. Our house is under construction. We are wild bird rehabilitation volunteers. Our land is a wildlife sanctuary.

I make songs and poetry, and sing solo and in a folk chorus here in Maine, and am always looking for interesting music to try. Scots Gaelic, Passamaquoddy, Shoshone, and Italian languages are of great interest, as are farming books and field guides. We like dark chocolate, shortbread, good tea leaves, laughter, small hand tools, interesting things someone made. A realeo, truleo letter is a wondrous thing. Please send only as much as pleases you. I'll share with my husband, Truelove.

Thank you, Santa.

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: Rapparee
Date: 29 Oct 13 - 04:10 PM

Why heck, if you want rocks...how many? A (train) carload? Or more?

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: maeve
Date: 29 Oct 13 - 05:49 PM

Well, Rapparee, sure. We're building drystone walls as we have time so feel free to have some good wall stone sent here...or flint, or fossils, or geodes...

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: dulcimer42
Date: 30 Oct 13 - 05:47 PM

A few more ideas I've come up with. I do collect old music books (church hymnals included), old cook books (church or group produced ones are nice), and old medical books.

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: Rapparee
Date: 31 Oct 13 - 03:42 PM

You'll pay the shipping, of course. Sorry that I can't but you live in a foreign country and shipping three carloads of igneous rock and gneiss would break my break my SS budget.

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: Rapparee
Date: 31 Oct 13 - 03:47 PM

Here's a little one in captivity.

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: ranger1
Date: 31 Oct 13 - 04:52 PM

Since when is Maine a foreign country?

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 01 Nov 13 - 12:12 PM

One more pass through. Since today is a work day I'll start making the list this weekend. Any more takers? The prospect of finding a stone in one's stocking isn't so bad if it is something like Rap has in mind. I'd like one of these large stones if anyone is of a mind. And I would pay postage.

SRS

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: billybob
Date: 01 Nov 13 - 03:09 PM

Getting very excited.................. Quite happy to post something to the USA, special relationship and all that !!

Wendy x

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: Firecat
Date: 02 Nov 13 - 12:37 PM

Keeping an eye on my PMs!

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: Rapparee
Date: 02 Nov 13 - 09:48 PM

You mean they finally settled all that? I thought it was still part of whatsisname...Canada.

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: ranger1
Date: 03 Nov 13 - 07:45 AM

Yeah, back in the Bloodless Aroostook County War. Jeez, Rap, where ya been?

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 03 Nov 13 - 04:29 PM

I'm going to get out a cinnamon candle and some sparkly decorative thing to put on the desk in front of me later as I line up Santas and their Santees. I have at least one party who needs to write back before I make the official selections, so check your PMs.

SRS

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: ranger1
Date: 05 Nov 13 - 07:28 AM

And waiting...

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 05 Nov 13 - 07:47 AM

eagerly ...

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: Becca72
Date: 05 Nov 13 - 08:44 AM

if somewhat less than patiently...
:-)

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 05 Nov 13 - 08:55 AM

;-)

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 05 Nov 13 - 10:25 AM

Almost there! Bells are ringing, glitter is sparkling. . .

A couple of you need to check your PMs before the game can begin.

SRS (Santa's Righthand Secretary)

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: Firecat
Date: 05 Nov 13 - 02:24 PM

*watches for PM*

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: Anne Lister
Date: 05 Nov 13 - 05:58 PM

*bated breath*

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: ranger1
Date: 06 Nov 13 - 06:14 PM

*Drums fingers impatiently on table*

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: Firecat
Date: 06 Nov 13 - 08:07 PM

*bounces on heels and whistles*

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 07 Nov 13 - 12:19 AM

Okay - I'll start sending these out tomorrow. I'm waiting on a couple of Mudcat detective reports but we're ready to launch the main part of the adventure now.

I'm going to sleep on this list (not literally - it'll be on my kitchen table) and double check that I didn't miss anyone or double up on a name.

There are no guarantees that you will receive a Santee that you've never had before. We have new players and that will be taken into account, but if you get someone you've had before, you'll just have to be all that much more sneaky to send something that will surprise them, if you're trying to keep your ID secret. Most people try to hide their identity, but it isn't always possible, especially with computerized mailing labels. I'll compare last year's list and the year before that, and I'll at least make sure that people in the same household aren't sending to each other. :)

SRS

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 07 Nov 13 - 01:15 AM

people in the same household sending to each other

that would be the very best secretive santaing! Imagine the fun! the fibs! the sneakiness ...

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: Becca72
Date: 07 Nov 13 - 08:47 AM

Agreed! That would be almost as much fun as Jacqui getting Micca to carry his own present back from the States! ;-)

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 07 Nov 13 - 02:55 PM

That jacqui, she is a clever one!

Not all are sent out yet. I'm working down my parchment-like scroll of names and sending PMs as I have a moment during the day.

As the game begins, there will be stragglers. I noticed a number of names from past years that aren't here this time. If you discover this thread and missed this November first deadline you can still contact me and we'll see what we can do. If you transmit that you missed and want to join in this thread then it may be easy for your Santa or Santee to guess who you are, because the matchups will be among the stragglers. Just send me a PM directly instead.

SRS

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 11 Nov 13 - 12:11 AM

I hear there are stragglers. Send me a PM if that is the case.

SRS

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: vectis
Date: 11 Nov 13 - 05:03 AM

Wheeeeee! I'm back in again this year. Awesome!

1. What is your age range? 61

2. Gender? Girl

3. Do you have a favorite color? not really but hate pale pastel clothing

4. Favorite authors/type of book? songs with music/guitar chords

5. What books have you really been wanting? songs of the sailer and lumberman, not 100% sure of the title, by Doerflinger

6. What type of music do you like? Folk, blues, jug band

7. What CDs have you really been wanting? None, yours or something local to you would be good.

8. What movies have you been wanting? (specify VHS if you don't have a DVD player) none

9. What is your t-shirt size? nice and roomy 40" chest will fit

10. Do you collect anything? if so, what? Dragons but rapidly running out of room for any more.

11. What are some of your other hobbies? walking, riding motorcycles, cycling, geocaching, cross stitch, art.

12. Do you prefer gold-tone or silver-tone jewelry? neither - I have enough jewellery to last for the rest of my life.

13. Please include anything else you feel is important that would help your Secret Santa know what you would like? I have recently moved from the UK to New Zealand so now spending more time outdoors.

14. Remember that "negative hints" such as allergies might also be helpful. Animal fur makes me itchy and wheezy.

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: Sarah the flute
Date: 12 Nov 13 - 04:30 AM

Here's my list....oooooh sooooo exciting

1. What is your age range? One year older..mid cententary

2. Gender? Female

3. Do you have a favorite color? Purple, dark blue, maroon

4. Favorite authors/type of book? I like faction books ie fiction books based on true facts

5. What books have you really been wanting? None really as I have a library ...so if I want a book I buy it for the library! The only exception to this is traditional music and song books with the dots

6. What type of music do you like? Most stuff except opera and country

7. What CDs have you really been wanting? Your own CD would be appreciated

8. What movies have you been wanting? (specify VHS if you don't have a DVD player)Anything with Irish Ceili dancing on it ie NOT step dancing or set dancing but social dances would be good

9. What is your t-shirt size? Don't really wear them

10. Do you collect anything? if so, what? Odd musical wind and reed based instruments. Someone gave me a nose flute a few Santas back and sadly it is now broken. I used to do a heart rendering rendition of Danny Boy on it dueting with a swanee whistle player - it brought tears to the eyes!

11. What are some of your other hobbies? Mostly music but I also draw cartoons

12. Do you prefer gold-tone or silver-tone jewelry? Silver and pewter

13. Please include anything else you feel is important that would help your Secret Santa know what you would like. I love quirky stuff, gadgets and funny toys etc - the weirder the better

14. Remember that "negative hints" such as allergies might also be helpful. Allergic to incense sticks - perfumed candles are fine

Thank you Santa .... I am being good!!!

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 13 Nov 13 - 01:33 PM

For those participants who are doing a little extra this year, I'll be sending out details over the weekend. This is a heads up that 1) I haven't forgotten and 2) now that I've said it, I am holding my own toes to the fire. :)

SRS

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: artbrooks
Date: 16 Nov 13 - 10:26 AM

Ye Olde Hints:

1. What is your age range?   Herself swats me if I look too closely, but 20-something and beyond. Oh - you meant my own? 60-ish, pushing 70-ish, but not too hard.

2. Gender? Male

3. Do you have a favorite color? Dark green

4. Favorite authors/type of book? I mostly read SF and alternative history, but I generally buy or read them as soon as they come out.

5. What books have you really been wanting? See #4 - if I want it, I have it...and I'm running out of room for any more.

6. What type of music do you like? Uh...folk? Oh yeah - what is folk? Never mind...Celtic. Wait - what is Celtic? Stuff with fiddles, guitars and maybe (dread) a banjo or bodhran.   People singing in languages I don't know. Rhythm - rhythm is good. Local to you is best.

7. What CDs have you really been wanting? I'm pretty sure that I don't have every CD ever produced by a Mudcatter.

8. What movies have you been wanting? (specify VHS if you don't have a DVD player). Nah.

9. What is your t-shirt size? XL

10. Do you collect anything? if so, what? Not really.

11. What are some of your other hobbies? Painting miniature toy soldiers.

12. Do you prefer gold-tone or silver-tone jewelry? I only wear silver, but I have all I need.

13. Please include anything else you feel is important that would help your Secret Santa know what you would like. I would most like things from you or where you live.

14. Remember that "negative hints" such as allergies might also be helpful. I don't care for white "chocolate" much.

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: jennbrooks
Date: 16 Nov 13 - 10:37 AM

Well, this is really Art, but here are herself's hints, copied from last time, with a little editing:

1. what is your age range? I'm 64. A young 64. I think. {Personally, I have trouble believing that. 35, maybe.}

2. gender? female

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

4. favorite authors/ type of book? Mostly I go to the library a lot and have finally learned to use my e-reader, but see below. I like mysteries and fantasies. {A lot of mysteries in which the protagonist is a knitter seem to flow through here.}

5. what books have you really been wanting? A local cookbook or songbook or any knitting or beading 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. {Yes, admittedly very true}

8. What movies have you been wanting? Also none, thank you. We really aren't movie or TV watchers.

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 folk and contra dancing.

12. do you prefer gold-tone or silver-tone jewelry? Silver, hands down. Generally I wear pierced earrings, rarely any other jewelry. {Really hard to buy presents around here!}

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.

Subject: RE: Mudcat Secret Santa- Xmas 2013 - Join Us!
From: GUEST,Hollowfox
Date: 05 Dec 13 - 12:45 PM

I'm so sorry for the delay! I've been having adventures, like my bathroom pipes dying of old age, among other things. If worse comes to worse, the gummy bears will probably get my energy back up, and my long slightly twisty driveway will need some cinders this winter.

1. What is your age range? 64
2. Gender? Female

3. Do you have a favorite color? I tend toward blues and greens.

4. Favorite authors/type of book? folklore and folktales for nonfiction, fantasy for fiction. Used is just fine.

5. What books have you really been wanting? I'm a librarian, so I get to see pretty much all the new ones. Folktale collections delight my heart, as do used books. I'm currently on a jag for Turkish and Japanese tales, and anything by an author named Post Wheeler. He was in the United States diplomatic corps in the first part of the 20th century, and he apparently collected tales as a hobby. He had the knack to make anything readable. Oh yes, any books by Arthur Waley (Secret History of the Mongols, Monkey, and others). He translated many fine obscure oriental classics.

6. What type of music do you like? What have you got by local folks? Usually I go for traditional Anglo-American and ballads, but novelty songs, music hall, storytelling, etc. are appreciated. 7. What CDs have you really been wanting? See above. If my Secret Santa is Canadian, I'd love to have anything by Penny Lang.

8. What movies have you been wanting? (specify VHS if you don't have a DVD player) I can do either VC or DVD, but of course any DVDs must be Area 1 (I think that's what they call it; North America viewing area) Well, you asked. I'm looking for a Japanese animation classic called Arcadia of My Youth.If you know of any tapes of storytellers or folk performers of any sort, I probably don't have it and would love it.

9. What is your t-shirt size? XL

10. Do you collect anything? if so, what? I don't collect things so much as accumulate them. Currently, small things (figurines, inexpensive prints). Animals, fantastical or real, folk and storytelling themes. Nothing cutsey, please, unless it's deliberately funny. For example, I have a couple of prints of dragons in feline activities - sleeping in the laundry, standing by someone's ankles when they open a can of food, etc. But the art is good and the critters don't look goofy.

11. What are some of your other hobbies? embroidery and counted cross stitch

12. Do you prefer gold-tone or silver-tone jewelry? silver mostly, but I wear both.

13. Please include anything else you feel is important that would help your Secret Santa know what you would like. Edibles (sweet or savory) and potables are a wonderful default. Something for the spice cabinet is always good, but I don't really go for the overly hot stuff; I don't enjoy biting something that bites me back too hard. I've always loved any Christmas ornaments that have come in my Mudcat present. Used, recycled, found, etc. is as good or better than new.

14. Remember that "negative hints" such as allergies might also be helpful. I'm an omnivore. Since I'm late in the game this year, the pressie hasn't got a deadline.