Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016

Subject: Secret Santa gift ideas and teasing
From: vectis
Date: 12 Oct 16 - 11:28 PM

Here is the faithful list for all participants to fill in to give their Santa some ideas of your loves and hates. Just copy and paste this list and answer all or some of the questions posed.

This thread can also be used to tease your santees, once you know who they are, which will be soon.

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 (DVD/BluRay)?

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.

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas and teasing
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 13 Oct 16 - 01:03 AM

first in again!


1. What is your age range? almost 65

2. Gender? female

3. Do you have a favorite color? red, purple, emerald green, black ...

4. Favorite authors/type of book? Library books

5. What books have you really been wanting? more library books

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? Mudcatter CDs (but I do have a lot)

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. Antique & vintage needlework tools, & examples of old needlework; Japanese stuff including fabrics (don't need any more!) Tiny chrissy decorations that can go on or surround my three 6" trees; Old plastic chrissy decorations from Hong Kong & Japan.
But I am moving sometime soon as my 38 stairs are getting too much for all my sore bits, so I'm downsizing, especially books & unused craft stuff! Charity (goodwill) shops are always pleased to see me trundle in with my trolley full of good stuff!

11. What are some of your other hobbies?

    Crafty stuff including making small quilted panels & other small stuff from Japanese 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, even after sending some to charity shops!

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: Secret Santa gift ideas and teasing
From: Sarah the flute
Date: 13 Oct 16 - 06:50 AM

Here goes

1. What is your age range? Late 50s

2. Gender? Female

3. Do you have a favorite color? Purple, Black, Dark Blue

4. Favorite authors/type of book? Non-fiction/history/classics Music or song books with dots - if in parts and one octave tunes even better

5. What books have you really been wanting? Some mindless horror paperback. See above

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

7. What CDs have you really been wanting? A CD from you or where you live would be great

8. What movies have you been wanting (DVD/BluRay)? Don't really have time to watch them

9. What is your t-shirt size? Big dark colour and V neck

10. Do you collect anything? if so, what? Unusual wind instruments - still trying to replace the wonderful nose flute someone gave me which sadly broke

11. What are some of your other hobbies? drawing and gadgets that I can use for my core skills training courses in schools.

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

13. Please include anything else you feel is important that would help your Secret Santa know what you would like. I like the weird and wonderful so surprise me!

14. Remember that "negative hints" such as allergies might also be helpful. No books other than music ones - I'm a librarian but I mostly read on my tablet these days


I LOVE doing SS - it is so exciting!

Sarah

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas and teasing
From: Rapparee
Date: 13 Oct 16 - 08:35 PM

1. What is your age range?

Between 65 and 75, somewhere.

2. Gender?

Male, last I knew.

3. Do you have a favorite color?

Plaid.

4. Favorite authors/type of book?

Hmm...I usually buy it if I want it.

5. What books have you really been wanting?

"Packing for Mars" by Mary Roach. A first edition of the Bible, autographed by the author, and ditto for the Quran and the Talmud.

6. What type of music do you like?

Folk. Recently I've been listing to Scottish rebel ballads and real cowboy stuff, like Slim Crichlow (which I have). NOT Country and Western {shudder!}

7. What CDs have you really been wanting?

See 6, above.

8. What movies have you been wanting (DVD/BluRay)?

None come to mind.

9. What is your t-shirt size?

XXL

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

Good will. Mercy (I hope).

11. What are some of your other hobbies?

CAS. Travel. For the last couple of years, surgery.

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

Silver, if I wear any.

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

Can't think of anything. If it helps any I grew up on the Mississippi River, just about 20 miles above Mark Twain's Hannibal.


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

No known allergies, except seasonal (spores, etc.).

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: jacqui.c
Date: 15 Oct 16 - 07:52 AM

1. What is your age range? 69

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, Blues or Jazz

7. What CDs have you really been wanting? None right now

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? Medium - 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 most metals.

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Rapparee
Date: 15 Oct 16 - 10:33 PM

I can't wait to get a Santee!

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: JennieG
Date: 16 Oct 16 - 04:59 PM

I'll do mine later today after I work out how to copy and paste on a tablet......we're on holidays and our big computer is at home!

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: vectis
Date: 17 Oct 16 - 04:56 AM

Hopefully santees will be given next Tuesday when I get back home.

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 20 Oct 16 - 01:27 PM

1. What is your age range? "A certain age."

2. Gender? F

3. Do you have a favorite color? Dark greens and blues.

4. Favorite authors/type of book? I already own far more books than I will ever manage to read in my lifetime

5. What books have you really been wanting? I've thought about reading the Terry Pratchett books, but haven't found or figured out which is the first book an any of his series to start with. One of those.

6. What type of music do you like? Ecclectic - folk, classic, blues, rock, jazz

7. What CDs have you really been wanting? Yours! The one you perform on or produced

8. What movies have you been wanting (DVD/BluRay)? I have NetFlix and a nearby well-stocked public library. I can find anything I'm looking for

9. What is your t-shirt size? Medium or Large, depending on how much shrinkage may be involved

10. Do you collect anything? if so, what? I've been decluttering for years. Please, no collectibles! I am a tea drinker, but can buy most any kind of loose tea from around the world. I seem to have an interesting collection of tea balls.

11. What are some of your other hobbies? Gardening, photography, sewing, beading

12. Do you prefer gold-tone or silver-tone jewelry? "Tone" is the operative word - there are enough metal allergies in my world that if it isn't a good quality of real gold, or sterling silver, I can't wear it. Puts me out of the SS price range, sadly . . .

13. Please include anything else you feel is important that would help your Secret Santa know what you would like. It's the process I enjoy - reading pages from your hometown paper used to wrap inside the parcel, a view of your world and interests. Please keep it small so it doesn't cost a lot to mail and it generally ships faster that way anyway.

14. Remember that "negative hints" such as allergies might also be helpful. I am allergic to coconut - and in this day and age, coconut oil and other parts of the nut are in many things, such as soaps, shampoo, lotions, and foods. The chemical names don't necessarily tell you they're coconut products, but things like "sodium laurelth sulfate" (the sudsy part of soap and shampoo) comes from coconut. So personal care items or processed foods are not a good choice for me.

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Severn
Date: 22 Oct 16 - 09:43 PM

Age Range-One year at a time, but will be turning 68 soon

Gender--I'm listed on the Engendered Species List as Male

Favorite colors--Blue and green, as I still have some red hair left

Books-I keep claiming I have too many, but books about or songbooks of traditional music are always nice, and from where you live, even nicer.

Book Wants-Music, as mentioned above, History from your area or share one of your favorite mysteries with me.

Music- Most kinds, but as this is primarily a Folk Music forum, traditional music from your country or area, Local bands you like of any kind, or since I'm co-hosting a radio show these days, Blues or Blues-related music recorded in the 1920s & 1930s, as that is the focus of our show. Or even better that that, one of YOURS, if you are a recording artist.

Films- I have enough of those at present

T-shirt size--Extra Large

Collections-LPs, CDs, old metal porcelain enamel advertising signs or advertising thermometers, dust (but I have enough, thank you). An extra phonograph needle never hurts.

Hobbies-Singing, walking, birding

Jewelry--I don't wear it

Other information--If you are from outside the USA, for any paper package stuffing, make it the comics page from your local paper.

I am diabetic, so food would not be the best thing, unless you're real careful in what you send.

A nice tweed hat with personality would be good in a size 7 1/8

I too am in the process of decluttering.

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: JennieG
Date: 24 Oct 16 - 05:35 PM

We're home again, so I can do stuff on the big computer!

1. What is your age range?
   Let's just say on the shady side of 60 and leave it at that, shall we?

2. Gender?
   Girl.

3. Do you have a favorite color?
   Green - yellow - autumn golours. I really really don't like pink, and I don't go much for purple either.

4. Favorite authors/type of book?
   Don't have a favourite author. I like reading about social history, and enjoy a good murder.

5. What books have you really been wanting?
   None really - I'/m a library user.

6. What type of music do you like?
   Pretty much anything folky (except for those chickies who sing pages from their diaries), and early music, and classical guitar.

7. What CDs have you really been wanting?
   Difficult! None on my wish list, I just pick them up as I come across them.

8. What movies have you been wanting (DVD/BluRay)?
   None, and it's DVD.

9. What is your t-shirt size?
   Depends on the manufacturer but a large/extra large should do it. Loose is always more comfortable than too tight.

10. Do you collect anything? if so, what?
    Wombats (Aussie marsupial) - not real ones, alas - and if I could I would collect antique jewellery, sigh......

11. What are some of your other hobbies?
    Sewing/quilting/knitting/crocheting

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.
    Let's see.......anything local from my Santa's area would be interesting!

14. Remember that "negative hints" such as allergies might also be helpful.
    No allergies.

Many thanks in advance, Santa!

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: vectis
Date: 24 Oct 16 - 09:44 PM

OK guys and gals,

You should all have a message with the identity and address of your santee for this Christmas. As far as the records I have got are concerned you have not got someone you have had before but the records are incomplete so I have done me best but may have stuffed up inadvertently.

So go and play good children all.

HO!HO!HO!

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Rapparee
Date: 25 Oct 16 - 09:56 AM

Well, I got mine and I'm gonna do my best to ignore everything and send whatever I want.

You got allergies? That's a sign of evolutionary weakness.
You don't like gold? That's a sign of evolutionary weakness.
You're over the hill? That's a sign of evolutionary weakness.
You're a male? That's a sign of evolutionary weakness (except in me).
You're a female? That a sign of evolutionary weakness.
You were born somewhere other than the US of A? That's a sign of evolutionary weakness.
You like folk music? That's a sign of evolutionary greatness.

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Firecat
Date: 25 Oct 16 - 04:55 PM

1. What is your age range? I'm 32 (33 on January 5)

2. Gender? Female

3. Do you have a favorite color? Midnight blue, black, silver and blood red

4. Favorite authors/type of book? Authors - Nicci French, Virginia Andrews, Ben Elton. Type of book - most stuff, but not into horror. Scripts of things are good - doesn't matter what, I just love scripts. Already got Doctor Who scripts and the Cursed Child one. My usual reading material is Doctor Who related, or by the above authors.

5. What books have you really been wanting? The Landry series by VC Andrews. I'm partially sighted, so large print is good. I usually go for audiobooks or on my Kindle, though.

6. What type of music do you like? Rock (Queen, Proclaimers, that sort of thing), soundtracks, musicals, and I have to confess a liking for Big Band - Glenn Miller type stuff.

7. What CDs have you really been wanting? Avenue Q soundtrack, Wicked soundtrack - musicals in general. Or any Harry Potter soundtrack (except Order Of The Phoenix because I've already got that). I wouldn't mind the Stephen Fry audios of any Harry Potter from Chamber of Secrets onwards (I've got Philosopher's Stone), but it's a bit out of SS price range.

8. What movies have you been wanting (DVD/BluRay)? Pokemon Indigo League (first series of the anime) on DVD. Other than that, not sure.

9. What is your t-shirt size? Medium (UK size 14 - 16)

10. Do you collect anything? if so, what? Butterfly stuff, interesting coins, teddies, owl stuff, Doctor Who stuff, trivia - also recently started a Pokemon plushie collection (I got a little Bulbasaur and Charmander)

11. What are some of your other hobbies? Quizzing, colouring, Internetting, listening to music, playing pool, sleeping...

12. Do you prefer gold-tone or silver-tone jewelry? Silver, but I have set jewellery that I always wear (wedding and engagement rings, bracelets, Doctor Who wristband, owl magnifier, TARDIS pendant, sonic screwdriver pendant) so don't need any more, thanks. Mum also makes it, so if I'm wanting new earrings, I ask her. :-)

13. Please include anything else you feel is important that would help your Secret Santa know what you would like. I'm autistic, so sensory things can be interesting - I love the feel of velvet or velvety surfaces because they relax me. I'm also partial to sparkly things that I can play with.

14. Remember that "negative hints" such as allergies might also be helpful. I'm diabetic, teetotal, terrified of clowns, spiders and dogs (among other things), and allergic to nickel silver and sodium metabisulphite (a food preservative). I also hate the feel of raw silk.

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: GUEST,Sandra in Sydney's Secret Santa's Small ObSe
Date: 25 Oct 16 - 05:31 PM

Dear Sandra,

    I've been a Scout Elf for only a few years now, and this is my first assignment in OZ, and although I've seen a bit of the world, I have yet, until now, to experience your corner.....uh....PART.... of the globe. (Globes don't have corners. I'm off to a bad start already). My job is to follow you and observe you and try to figure out what your likes and needs might be while staying invisible to you at all times, but until I finish reading this rather useless guide book or meet up with some of the other elves assigned to some of the other Mudcatters down here, I might have to bother you with a question or two about how to survive until I've finished my task, so please bear with me from time to time.

    OK, what to wear? I take it that it's summer there and that it's pretty warm most of the time, so one does not need down undies down under, so I'll dress light and summery, to summarize, but if I guess wrong, I would not know where to find something in my size.

    Looking at pictures of the local fauna, some of it seems strange but not too threatening. When one starts out at this job, the new employees get the worst assignments, and the first year I got Africa. That's a terrible place to be "bite-size", and there's a high attrition rate on us beginners, but I made it through alright.

    Hmmmmm....library books. It doesn't matter if they're a bit overdue, does it?

    That's all for now, thank you. I'll be seeing you soon, though I hope you don't see me.


Yours truly,
Elfish Presently Jr.

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 26 Oct 16 - 05:35 AM

Dear Elfish

Thank you for your very informative post.

Latest weather observations, Sydney region Unfortunately I couldn't see any appropriate clothing for you.

I am accustomed to overdue library books!

sandra

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: GUEST
Date: 26 Oct 16 - 12:01 PM

Oh, wow! I just bought a supply of mixed pickled calamari and pigs' tails! I will be including a jar for my Santee!

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: GUEST,Severn's Secretive Soggy Santa
Date: 27 Oct 16 - 06:42 AM

Just drifting past to say "No, I'm not in de Nile!"

I know that you've been good so far - in fact, you've been Amazon-ly good - but the Thames, they are a-changing, so make sure not to be a Bore.

Anyway, must Don some apparel. I'm heading for Tees with Mrs Sippi and Clyde.

Remember to go with the flow!

Soggy Santa

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Severn
Date: 27 Oct 16 - 11:58 PM

Well, Old Man or Lady River, you must know something, but don't say much amounting to anything, at least about your identity, but oh how you Babylon (I've never seen the Rivers Of Babylon, myself, but am familliar with the Babylon Brooks. My advice to you is to steer clear of the Rivers of Joan.....

As for Flo, she won't go much of anywhere with me anymore, but that's OK, I'm finally at the point where I'm over Flo now and waiting on my next bank statement......

Next time, use a boat rather than an inner tube, and you'll stay a little drier.......

I've even been listening to my old LP copy of Chuck Berry's "Concerto In B Goode", for old goodness sake, though the Chess albums were better than anything he ever recorded for Mercury......

Let Nothing You Dismay, and may you make me at least as gifted as I am talented......

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Rapparee
Date: 28 Oct 16 - 12:13 AM

Dear Santee:

You have been warned.

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Rapparee
Date: 28 Oct 16 - 10:09 PM

Don't leave.

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: GUEST,Firecat's festive frequent flyer elf
Date: 29 Oct 16 - 11:01 AM

Santa has more than a passing familiarity with Charmander and Doctor Who - we all travel around without use of typical transport methods.

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 30 Oct 16 - 12:17 PM

It's so quiet around here . . .

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: GUEST,The rapping and wrapping Santa for Rapparee
Date: 30 Oct 16 - 12:28 PM

Ho, ho, ho - this is going to be so much FUN! So, now I have to embark on a search for my US road atlas as it's been some time since I've delivered in your neck of the woods. But I'm on your case, sir, and thinking hard about the most appropriate way to reward your good deeds this year.
*exit, stroking beard in contemplative mood*

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: GUEST,Ho Ho Ho llowfox's SS
Date: 31 Oct 16 - 07:04 PM

Let the fun begin but oh no where are your hints or maybe you are easy to please? Let me delve in my sack and see what I can find for you from the exotic to the sublime or if you want to play safe give me some clues!

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: GUEST,Anne Lister's Secret-Santa-Helping Elf
Date: 31 Oct 16 - 10:08 PM

Hello, Anne!

Have you been a good little girl this year? My spies tell me you haven't been too bad, which is excellent news.

No hints from you so far, though, so you might only get a lump of coal this year - because poor Santa has so many little boys and girls to look after that sometimes he just plain plumb runs out of ideas.

Kindest Regards,
S-S-H Elf

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Sarah the flute
Date: 01 Nov 16 - 04:49 PM

I want a Santa !!!
Where are you????

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Hollowfox
Date: 01 Nov 16 - 05:01 PM

Here we go:

1. What is your age range? 67

2. Gender? Female

3. Do you have a favorite color? I love 'em all.

4. Favorite authors/type of book? Folklore and suchlike related, of course, history, humor, and fantasy. Used are just fine, as long as all the words are there. Also stuff local to your area.

5. What books have you really been wanting? Nothing particular at the moment, but if you're inspired…

6. What type of music do you like? Anglo-american traditional (surprise), ballads, storytelling, contradance and English country dance music, recitations, music hall, novelty songs and humor of all varieties.

7. What CDs have you really been wanting? Anything you think I'd enjoy, performers local to your area.

8. What movies have you been wanting (DVD/BluRay)? I have plenty, but if you send anything, make sure it's Area 1 (North America). Folk performers you like are always welcome.

9. What is your t-shirt size? XL

10. Do you collect anything? if so, what? I don't collect so much as accumulate. Make it small, if you can; I'm trying to de-clutter the house. Mudcatters in the past have sent Christmas ornaments, and they have a place of honor on the tree so I can remember the givers

11. What are some of your other hobbies? Storytelling, embroidery, counted cross-stitch, and latch-hook, Japanese anime, cooking and baking.

12. Do you prefer gold-tone or silver-tone jewelry? Silver, but I won't turn down other metals.

13. Please include anything else you feel is important that would help your Secret Santa know what you would like. Please identify yourself somewhere in the pressie!

14. Remember that "negative hints" such as allergies might also be helpful. No allergies, I like almost anything.

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Hollowfox
Date: 01 Nov 16 - 05:04 PM

To my SS: I'm easy to please, but I'm also a gambling woman, so bring it on. The one thing I don't want to do is make this a chore for you, so just have fun with it.

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Anne Lister
Date: 02 Nov 16 - 08:10 AM

Well, since I've been reprimanded and threatened with a lump of coal (which seems somewhat unfair, as I haven't been naughty, just failed to provide information about likes and dislikes) I'd better complete this list, although it doesn't change much from year to year ...


1. What is your age range? Older than I'd like to own up to.

2. Gender? Seriously? Female.

3. Do you have a favorite color? Purple.

4. Favorite authors/type of book? Dorothy Dunnett, Terry Pratchett - but I have all of the former and only lack some of the more recent of the latter.

5. What books have you really been wanting? Ridiculous tomes normally found in reference libraries ... not something I'd expect Santa to provide!

6. What type of music do you like? traditional music, mostly

7. What CDs have you really been wanting? I haven't ...I normally buy the ones I know about. But if my Santa is a musician I'd love to hear their music.

8. What movies have you been wanting (DVD/BluRay)? Again, none really.

9. What is your t-shirt size? XXL

10. Do you collect anything? if so, what? I don't collect anything.

11. What are some of your other hobbies? Theatre, drama, history, travelling.

12. Do you prefer gold-tone or silver-tone jewelry? Real gold or silver only, I'm afraid - got far too much costume jewellery.

13. Please include anything else you feel is important that would help your Secret Santa know what you would like. My favourite SS packages include lots of little things that tell me about where they live.

14. Remember that "negative hints" such as allergies might also be helpful. Not mad keen on chocolates or sweets, although I have a husband who will help to eat them if they're included. Dark chocolate is preferred to milk chocolate. Love coffee - Peets is a particular favourite brand.

I'm actually very easily pleased, whatever the above suggests. Books of local folk tales or folklore, or recipes, local crafts - all very gratefully received.

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: GUEST,billybob's secret santa
Date: 02 Nov 16 - 08:36 AM

Hey, billybob! What kinda stuff do you like? Going by your name, I could get you bluegrass, old timey or trad Southern Appalachian music, but liking any one of those doesn't guarantee liking either of the other two. Is there any particular instrument you like to hear? You don't have to fill out that big ol questionnaire if you don't want to, but give me a hint. Or, I could scare up some rap, or opera, or Lawrence Welk cds...

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: GUEST,Jacqui's santa
Date: 02 Nov 16 - 06:29 PM

ho! ho!

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: GUEST,Anne Lister's Secret-Santa-Helping Elf
Date: 03 Nov 16 - 01:23 AM

Notice has been taken, coal is removed from the list (which is just as well, because the coal mine stopped producing years ago and you wouldn't believe the price of the imported stuff) and myself and my fellow elves/elvesses are on the prowl looking for goodies.

Kindest Regards
S-S-H Elf

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: JennieG
Date: 04 Nov 16 - 04:21 PM

Hello......Santa.......?

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Rapparee
Date: 04 Nov 16 - 09:26 PM

If it helps any I am not.

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: JennieG
Date: 07 Nov 16 - 04:19 AM

That's one crossed off the list, Rap......

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: GUEST,Ho Ho Ho llowfox's SS
Date: 07 Nov 16 - 08:53 PM

Aha we have the hints
Duly noted and selection process has been activated
Hold tight

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: GUEST,Sarah the Flute's Santa's secretary.
Date: 08 Nov 16 - 07:20 AM

Hallo oh Windy One. Himself has been rather preoccupied recently what with Brexit and that hoo ha going on across the Pond; would you believe how much of his work has been affected by both those events? NOW he's waiting to see if it will be safe for him to fly anywhere in the USA without being shot down or deported as an illegal.......

Anyhoo, he has designated his top elves to scurry around madly and put together a positive cornucopia of delights for your Christmas Day pleasure. They have your list and will be putting their little heads together to make sure that you will be happy with the result.

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: GUEST,Billybob's Squirming Secret Santa
Date: 09 Nov 16 - 04:07 PM

Aw, come on, honey - can't you give me even a little hint! I'll give you one: I live in the USA, and I want to get your pressie absolutely right AND get it to you on time. Pretty please?

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: GUEST,a helpful elf
Date: 11 Nov 16 - 08:08 AM

Billybob's 2014 list

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Sarah the flute
Date: 11 Nov 16 - 06:41 PM

ooooooo I have a santa
Could it be Nigel Farage or Donald ***** I wonder?
Naaa

I'm being good

StF

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: GUEST,Sarah the Flute's Santa's Secretary
Date: 13 Nov 16 - 07:51 AM

Message from Himself. He's a bit upset at the thought that anyone might think he had a connection to either of those two wallies but he's a very forgiving old guy so won't just leave coal - this time.

Elves are now on overtime to fill this order so it should be ready for delivery in time for the festivities.

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: JennieG
Date: 13 Nov 16 - 02:47 PM

Santa?

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: GUEST,Billybob's Worried SS
Date: 15 Nov 16 - 05:30 PM

Are you still here? I could send you a gift without any hints, but nobody should trust somebody with my sense of humor that way.

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: maeve
Date: 15 Nov 16 - 05:58 PM

GUEST,billybob's Worried SS - I already sent her reminder PM with a link to this thread.
An elf upthread left you a link to billybob's 2014 S.Santa Christmas list. Why not use that?
She's a busy gal devoted to family, and may not be able to help with new ideas.

Here it is:
Subject: RE: BS: Secret Santa wish list 2014
From: billybob - PM
Date: 16 Oct 14 - 06:57 AM

1. What is your age range? 60s

2. Gender?Female

3. Do you have a favorite color?Purple or blue

4. Favorite authors/type of book? Biography

5. What books have you really been wanting? anything funny at the moment!

6. What type of music do you like? Folk, classic.

7. What CDs have you really been wanting? Any mudcatters

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

9. What is your t-shirt size? Large

10. Do you collect anything? if so, what? trinket boxes, old bone china cups and saucers

11. What are some of your other hobbies? Gardening, cooking, family history .

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,Love crystals .

14. Remember that "negative hints" such as allergies might also be helpful. None that I know of.

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: ranger1
Date: 16 Nov 16 - 08:43 PM

I messaged billybob on Facebook today, so I think she'll probably check in soon.

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 16 Nov 16 - 11:40 PM

Santa never calls, never writes . . .

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: GUEST,Sandra in Sydney's Small, Short Seasonal Sco
Date: 17 Nov 16 - 02:52 PM

Sandra,

    I managed to get waylaid for awhile (a long story, possibly for another post), but I want to let you know that I have assembled all the contents for your package, and it is ready for mailing.
   
    Sorry if I have taken so long in getting back to you, but you have been by no means forgotten.

Seasonally yours,
Elfish Presently Jr.
Santa's Scout Elf

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 17 Nov 16 - 05:23 PM

many thankyous, Elfish Presently

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: billybob
Date: 18 Nov 16 - 09:25 AM

Ooooh Santa, so sorry I have been away having fun at a big family party and did not see all these messages, thank you Maeve and Ranger for looking out for me xxx

My list is unchanged but any little gift from the USA would be lovely thank you. We were there this time last year for Thanksgiving with all my husbands lovely family, Happy days.
Wishing you all a very Happy Thanksgiving xxx

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: maeve
Date: 18 Nov 16 - 10:22 AM

:)

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: GUEST,JennyG's Secret Santa
Date: 19 Nov 16 - 06:57 AM

Ho Ho Ho,

Mrs Santa has been shopping and your pressys will be on their way,hope you have been a good girl! Just got to dust the snow off the sleigh and wake up the elves and off we go..... HO HO HO

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: GUEST,billybob's relieved ss
Date: 19 Nov 16 - 12:59 PM

Where did you visit in the USA?

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: JennieG
Date: 19 Nov 16 - 02:45 PM

Hello, Santa! You do exist after all!

I'm doing my darndest to be good.

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: GUEST,Acme's Horribly Horrible Elvish Daemon
Date: 19 Nov 16 - 07:59 PM

Ho boy! Are YOU gonna get it! You don't have any idea what you're in for! But you are interested in music from my locality, so here's a hint.

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: billybob
Date: 20 Nov 16 - 08:31 AM

Hi Santa,

we were in New Jersey, Pennsauken and Cherry Hill area where Billy was born and he has 4 sisters and huge extended family. But as he has been in the UK since 1975 most of our nieces and nephews think he is an Englishman, the lovely accent sadly has gone. We went to Philly shopping of course and had to go to Lancaster County to get lots of Christmas Gifts.But this year we will be here at home so don't worry I am having the chimney swept next week ready for your visit. xx

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Rapparee
Date: 20 Nov 16 - 10:17 PM

My Santee is going to get something nice. At least I hope it's nice. I think it's nice.

Nice and strange!!!!

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: vectis
Date: 26 Nov 16 - 03:41 AM

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: GUEST,billybob's ss, getting it all together
Date: 26 Nov 16 - 04:50 PM

Thanks, that's a help.

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: vectis
Date: 29 Nov 16 - 02:48 AM

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Rapparee
Date: 29 Nov 16 - 09:14 AM

I'm going to take some of the stuff I've received and send that! Ho boy! My Santee's gonna get that parcel of dried kvass from the Walmart in Ulaanbaatar! The big blob of melted metal from someplace called Charnoodle or something in Ukraine (it makes a good reading lamp, but the greenish glow can't be switched off)! I'm going to send the face powder (I don't use it) I got from Canada that marked "Souvenir of the Thetford Mines, Ontario"! I'd send the program from a play called "Our American Cousin" but it's from a production in 1865 and it seems to be bloodstained and someone made notes on it like "Should be eighty-seven".

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: vectis
Date: 30 Nov 16 - 12:56 AM

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Rapparee
Date: 30 Nov 16 - 09:58 PM

The very last pressie for the package to my Santee has been ordered. Yes, I had to slip back into my drill sergeant persona and actually order it around! It's doing pushups at the moment for being untidy in uniform.

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: GUEST,Jacqui's Santa
Date: 02 Dec 16 - 05:40 PM

ho! ho! parcel on it's way

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: vectis
Date: 04 Dec 16 - 03:39 AM

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: My guru always said
Date: 04 Dec 16 - 06:26 AM

Looking for a last minute pressie for your Santee in the UK?

I have a few MudCat TShirts (some Blue and some Red) left to sell at £10 plus £2 postage within the UK and can post them to your Santee if I have the right size!

See the thread below the line - PM me if you'd like one!

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: GUEST,Rap's seriously cool wrapping Santa
Date: 04 Dec 16 - 05:53 PM

Yo, Rap! Consequential upon my last communication, which was sent across at least two nations, the elves tell me your gifts are ready and they're holding Rudolph steady ...
So stand on your liver and respire for the presents will come that you desire.
Actually some of that didn't come out quite right (especially the bit about your liver - I blame the youngest elf, who seems to have found the experimental bottle of fly agaric infused gin, and who kept getting his beat boxing confused with his hiccoughing). However the main point is that we're getting ready to do a final wrap and an address label, which has got to be a good thing.

Your busy but watchful Santa.

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Rapparee
Date: 05 Dec 16 - 10:04 AM

It's about time somebody held Rudolf steady. I've missed that sucker every year because he dodges and skitters around, with the result that we don't have reindeer for Christmas dinner.

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Rapparee
Date: 06 Dec 16 - 08:59 AM

Dearest Santee:

Your last gift is on the way to me. As soon as I receive it from the seller I'll put everything together and it'll be on the way!

(You're not allergic to leather, Lycra, and feathers are you?)

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: GUEST,The Admin Elf for Rapparee's Santa
Date: 06 Dec 16 - 12:09 PM

Ahem. Following your last comments, Santa has instructed me to contact you to inform you that Rudolph will not now be on the delivery team for your package. You may well have intended the unfortunate comment facetiously (Santa informs me this is a well-known feature of your personality) but we cannot have our reindeer at the mercy of any form of ballistic weapon or at risk of being consumed for a festive meal. I'm sure you understand. We have instead consigned your package to the more conventional mail delivery companies, at some expense, and we will just have to hope that it will arrive in time. We also hope that you do not normally attempt to shoot down the mail person, and that you are not given to cannibalism. As you will be well aware, if news reaches us that you have indeed shot at the mail person, or indeed attempted to eat him or her, the contents of your package will instantly metamorphose into coal dust (Rudolph has suggested a modification in your case, to make it reindeer dung, but Santa did not approve this).
It does in any case mean we have no further need of our very large road atlas for Idaho, which is a great weight off the sleigh.

Happy Holidays!
The Admin Elf

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: GUEST,Ho Ho Ho llowfox's SS
Date: 06 Dec 16 - 04:01 PM

Look to the skies
We are up up up and away
Ho Ho Ho and a merry christmas

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: GUEST
Date: 06 Dec 16 - 04:10 PM

Ooh, thank you!

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: GUEST,Hollowfox
Date: 06 Dec 16 - 04:13 PM

That last post was from me. Amazing how fast some computers will drop a cookie.

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: JennieG
Date: 07 Dec 16 - 05:53 PM

Santa, Himself and I will be away over Christmas/New Year, we're leaving here on 17th Dec to visit family and to share in our grandkid's 2nd birthday cake......so if I don't acknowledge your present when it arrives it's not because I am being rude and ignorant, I'm not at home! Any mail which arrives while we're away will be safe, it will be held by the post office until we return.

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: GUEST,Sarah the Flute's Santa's Secretary
Date: 08 Dec 16 - 09:27 AM

Dear Ms Flute, I have had word from the number one elf that your parcel was despatched today. Hopefully, it should be arriving with you in the next few days. No peeping before the day please1

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: GUEST,Anne Lister's Secret-
Date: 08 Dec 16 - 08:27 PM

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Sarah the flute
Date: 09 Dec 16 - 06:08 AM

Woooooo Hooooo!

Thanks Santa

xxx

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: GUEST,Anne Lister's Secret-Santa-Helping Elf
Date: 09 Dec 16 - 06:25 AM

Well, what happened to that post, I wonder? We'll have to get the technological elves to check it out.

As I was saying before we were so rudely interrupted by technology, Anne, your present was thrown into the topmost sack by a postal elf (who was probably on something very seasonal at the time, knowing him) and now we are just waiting for Santa to return from the pub and press the green button, after which it will be on its way to you.

Kindest Regards,
S-S-H Elf

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Anne Lister
Date: 09 Dec 16 - 04:29 PM

Thank you, SSH-Elf ... I hope it wasn't anything fragile? We'll keep a look out for its arrival.
And thank you, Santa, in advance!

Subject: RE: Secret Santa grift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: GUEST,Severn
Date: 09 Dec 16 - 05:02 PM

Long time, no hear......

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Sarah the flute
Date: 12 Dec 16 - 05:20 PM

oh oh oh ! I have a box - a nice surprise on return from some work in Manchester

I think it must be from my Santa
I've not opened and no clues on the package except it looks like it is from the UK - no customs tags or anything

EXCITING!

Thank you Santa

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Rapparee
Date: 12 Dec 16 - 09:46 PM

Today the very last things for my Santee were selected and acquired. I am, for a large variety of reasons, certain that my Santee cannot obtain them and, indeed, they may well be illegal there. They include, but are not limited to, bawdy songs, smutty pictures of skinny dipping, and of course tales unfit for young or old or those in between.

Knowing my Santee I am certain sure the gifts will be appreciated. My Santee deserves nothing more or less.

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: GUEST,Firecat's Secretive Santa
Date: 13 Dec 16 - 12:43 AM

Your parcel is on the way - part of a very large shipment being staged by the reindeer. With the increased volume in recent years we use several Northpole Warehouses™ for distribution on the big night. And with modern GPS, I'll be able to watch it's progress on a huge screen in the Santa Situation Room.

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Firecat
Date: 13 Dec 16 - 09:43 AM

Ooh! Excitement, excitement!

I'll keep an eye out... :-D

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: GUEST,Severn's Secretive Soggy Santa
Date: 13 Dec 16 - 02:17 PM

Me again! Just to let you know that tomorrow, I will Orange for your parcel to be placed in the hands of the delivery Indus-try, so that Yukon expect it.

I hope it will Fly to you as swift as it can. I know I'm trying to Milk these puns...

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Anne Lister
Date: 17 Dec 16 - 03:02 PM

Oooooh! Package arrived today from Australia! Feels heavy and bumpy in places ... must restrain myself! But thank you, Santa, in advance!

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 17 Dec 16 - 03:14 PM

Sure has been quiet around here . . .

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: GUEST,Anne Lister's Secret-Santa-Helping Elf
Date: 17 Dec 16 - 05:17 PM

Already! That was quick! The postal elves have been into the medicinal brandy lately, so I have been concerned......

Kindest Regards
S-S-Helf

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: GUEST,billybob's panting secret santa
Date: 17 Dec 16 - 05:30 PM

Wow, Amazon wasn't kidding about reindeer being hard to steer, but I got all my deer in a row, and sent your pressie out about 5 1/2 hours ago. Who knows, you might even get the box before the 25th. Oh, and I left one word off the explanatory letter that's enclosed. he secret word is malachite. hehehe

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Rapparee
Date: 17 Dec 16 - 10:01 PM

The secret word for my Santee is "aspergillum." NB: this is a real, genuine word. You may or may not need it in regards to your pressie, but it's a pretty cool word. It's related to "aspergillosis."

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Hollowfox
Date: 20 Dec 16 - 08:11 PM

Um, Santa? I'm still looking to the skies. Of course, I don't know where my pressie is coming from, so a two week wait might well be a reasonable waiting time.

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: GUEST,Acme's Ace Excellently Exquisite Elven Elf
Date: 20 Dec 16 - 11:17 PM

So. Methinks I should tell Ms Acme what the poop is going on, maybe. Anyway, Old Fatso told me to check with a Certain Someone and get your pressie on the way. So I did.

Keep it in mind that I was acting for your SS. Your SS has included lots of stuff from your SS's region. Even music. You may have heard of the singer, but maybe not. I got to admit that I was pretty shocked, because apart from some really good throat singing Yupik carols don't do much for most people.

So I pried your pressie from your SS's hands, because "I just HAVE to include one more thing." I put it in the hands of the postal service and trust that it will get there sometime in the future.

Your SS is unaware of this message.

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Rapparee
Date: 20 Dec 16 - 11:19 PM

I just wanted to say that I got a package from Blighty today. I shall not open it until Der Tag.

Thank you, Secret Santa.

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 21 Dec 16 - 03:48 AM

Hollowfax - you might have been waiting 2 weeks, but my Santa apparently send my pressie on 17 Nov

sandra (still waiting patiently - my first Santa way back in 2002 sent a wunderful big box of many small parcels by sea mail & it arrived months later)

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: GUEST,Firecat's SS - a quick flyby
Date: 21 Dec 16 - 12:12 PM

Ms FCat,

It appears the reindeer got caught in a roundabout and vortex traffic kept them stuck running in circles for days - in fact, eight days to travel to the hub from which hopefully the parcel will be swiftly launched. (Reindeer don't do math - as long as they were able to grab a bite along the way they weren't concerned about the duration). A GPS ping confirms they finally reached the Northpole Warehouses™ yesterday. From there, a very fast walrus is supposed to propel a barge of items downstream to a port from where a blue whale will escort the barge across the pond. I am assured that we are dealing with each a very fine and magical walrus and whale. (Salt water spray will not harm the parcel.)

Santa may have been visiting the Mudcat Tavern a bit too often lately. . .

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Rapparee
Date: 21 Dec 16 - 09:32 PM

Dear Santee:

A really nasty critter came by yesterday and ripped your gifts from my clutching hands. I was going to get you a vehicle, perhaps

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Rapparee
Date: 21 Dec 16 - 09:36 PM

one like this. But it wasn't to be. That little ****** knocked me in the head with a bunch of sleigh bells (he snuck up on me), grabbed your pressies, and ran. I don't know what happened after that -- the rest of the day is kinda blurry.

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 22 Dec 16 - 02:51 PM

Uh oh.

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: GUEST,Ho Ho Ho llowfox's SS
Date: 22 Dec 16 - 03:09 PM

Any ho ho hope it has arrived yet?
It flew off on 6th Dec but maybe the elves and reindeer around here are on a go slow
I do hope it arrives on time - I have a ticket to say it made the sleigh

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Rapparee
Date: 22 Dec 16 - 04:17 PM

Acme,

Like the song says, it ain't me, babe.

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 22 Dec 16 - 09:27 PM

☺

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 23 Dec 16 - 10:39 AM

A box turned up on my porch this morning - from S. Santa!!!

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Hollowfox
Date: 23 Dec 16 - 11:24 AM

Thanks for answering . It hasn't arrived yet, I don't *have* to have it on Christmas. I just don't want it to get lost in the shuffle.

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: GUEST,Firecat's slightly frustrated Secret Santa
Date: 23 Dec 16 - 11:43 AM

Those reindeer reached the warehouse, but it seems they were again distracted and the GPS tracker shows two days of milling around bars in Chicago. I sent a representative to give them each a swift kick in the butt and get that parcel delivered to the transit barge.

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: GUEST,Sandra in Sydney's slow but chipper shipper
Date: 23 Dec 16 - 03:27 PM

Sandra,

      Sorry I disappeared for awhile. I'm new to your country and not used to your customs. While doing some research in rural a pub with a fellow Scout Elf but staying hidden, I spoke within a crowded room and said, "Where does one relieve one's self around here?"
      A fellow looked up from his beer long enough to jerk his thumb toward the rear door and said "Outback." and went back to drinking.
      I slipped out the back door, and liiking for a port-a-john or the like and seeing nothing, I kept on walking.....and walking.....and walking. Giving up and taling care of things on my own, I tried to find my way back and couldn't, hiking in what seemed like endless circles until I finally figured I'd shed all pretensions of secrecy and ask an aboriginal native wandering in a seemingly random manner himself and whom I figured wouldn't be caught up in Christmas lore or blow my cover. He seemed startled at first to see a somewhat height-challenged individual shouting and waving at him and ran behind a rock, probably figuring out whether I was something to be feared, hunted or God knows what else.
      His curiosity finally got the best of him when he figured out what I was shouting was in some sort of English, found out eventually that I, too, was on some sort of walkabout, and kindly took me some ways out of his way to a road that he said would lead me back where I came from.
      My elfin companion, fearing I was dead, had gotten back to Santa and related his fears. After I finally showed back up at the secret regional Elf Hostel, I finally got back to Santa, who had been having some difficulties himself, finally shipped you the present that had been ready, after giving me a stiff rebuke and a small fine of course.
      So, it IS well on its way with possibly more than originally intended, as I'd not given Santa the final edited version of the list. Hopefully, it will still make it by Christmas, but you will have no regrets, I assure you, when it does arrive. Please put in a good word for me to Santa when you receive it.

My Sincere Apologies,
Elfish Presently Jr.
Probationary Scout Elf

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Firecat
Date: 23 Dec 16 - 07:04 PM

Thanks for the update, Santa! I'll keep a lookout - means I'll have more to open around my birthday :-)

Didn't realise reindeer could get distracted...

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 24 Dec 16 - 12:11 AM

& thank you, Elfish

Today is the last delivery before Christmas & my mailbox was empty (not even a bill!) so I'll look again next week when delivery resumes.

sandra (happily patient)

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: GUEST,jacqui.c
Date: 24 Dec 16 - 08:18 AM

Whoo hoo! Christmas Eve delivery this morning with a package from Australia! It's now under the tree until tomorrow morning.

Thank you Santa!

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Rapparee
Date: 25 Dec 16 - 09:09 PM

I opened my pressie. There was a note inside that said, "Rydym wedi manteisio ar y cynnwys y presennol hwn i gefnogi ein ryfel annibyniaeth yn erbyn y Saeson. Diolch i chi, a Nadolig Llawen" in what I assume from the double consonants is Welsh. It was signed "Madog ap Llywelyn, Postfeistr Cyffredinol." Not understanding Welsh (does anyone, really?) I have no idea what the note says or even if it's good grammar.

There were some things left or maybe put in later: some brochures extolling Wales, a Welsh magnet (it has double magnetic flux density), some tea, a CD by Ann Lister, some books I am looking forward to reading once I know Welsh, and £150,000 in Welsh banknotes. I think the last might be of suspect authenticity since they are printed on what appears to be old English newspapers.

Anyway, Ann, thank you!

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Sarah the flute
Date: 26 Dec 16 - 06:36 AM

I claim my SS as being Jacqui and Kendall. Lovely surprise - I was so convinced it was someone from England but then I remembered how you come over to the UK for Christmas J. It seems ages though since we met up. Thankyou for a delightful array of gifts - music, books and candles and all wrapped up in a fantastic santa box

Happy Christmas and all the best for the new year

Sarah x

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Sarah the flute
Date: 26 Dec 16 - 09:09 AM

oops and a wonderful crochet scarf which I have just worn down to the shops!

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Firecat
Date: 26 Dec 16 - 12:44 PM

Rap, I can translate the "Diolch i chi, a Nadolig Llawen" bit, I think. Diolch means Thank you, and Nadolig Llawen is Merry Christmas.

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Rapparee
Date: 26 Dec 16 - 02:49 PM

I want to hear from my Santee. I hope the "French postcards" were what was wanted. And Oscar Brand's CD of dirty songs and bawdy lyrics.

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 27 Dec 16 - 02:33 PM

We're opening our gifts here on Thursday (delayed because this was the first time we could get both kids in one place at the same time). Looking forward to opening my box then!

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: JennieG
Date: 27 Dec 16 - 04:05 PM

We're still away, we will be returning home next Tuesday, so if you are reading this Santa I'm not being rude and ignoring you! I wouldn't like to upset Santa.

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Rapparee
Date: 28 Dec 16 - 05:52 AM

Nothing...nothing at all. There must have been a sleigh crash.

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Severn
Date: 28 Dec 16 - 10:52 PM

My Santa was not numbered with the "sleighn" like Rap's. I thank my Santa who I have not seen in ages and wouldn't recognize, but I thank for the Yorkshire gifts and lore. I found the package on my way out and I had to wait until after my radio show to open it, but was glad I finally did. I will be in contact.

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 29 Dec 16 - 07:55 AM

my pressie arrived today, the first day that the Post Office was open after the Christmas break.

And in the immortal words of my friend's 2-year old granddaughter "It's a box!" - I could see it thru a torn edge of the wrapping.

And what a treasure trove it contained - lots of CDs, a newsletter of the Folklore Society of Greater Washington, programs from 2013 Getaway (drool, those workshops!) & 2014 mini festival, 2 badges & a sticker & a 3-page letter from Severn explaining why he included each CD.

THANKYOU, Santa Severn, I'm looking forward to listening to the music.

sandra

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Hollowfox
Date: 29 Dec 16 - 03:31 PM

(in deference to current internet etiquette, excess capslock use will be avoided and all exclamation points have been removed from this post) Sarah the Flute, the package arrived yesterday, and everything is perfect. I'm looking forward to hearing your group's cd and the music hall cd has recordings I haven't heard yet. Les Barker has come to the US several times, including to the Old Songs festival that you've probably heard about here on the 'cat. I love his stuff, and not just the funny ones. The ornament is on the tree (out of cats' reach) the wee game looks like fun, especially after a glass or two. The pouch is lovely. I wish I could have been at the concerts that the fliers told me about. This was the perfect Mudcat pressie. Thank you so much. (This current internet etiquette is nearly killing me!!!!!!!)

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Sarah the flute
Date: 29 Dec 16 - 04:48 PM

So glad it arrived OK in the end but doubly sorry it did not get there by 25th as was promised by the PO here in Blighty. Enjoy the pressies and all the best for 2017 (naw.... got to add some ...!!!!!!!!!!)

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Severn
Date: 29 Dec 16 - 09:54 PM

I'm glad it arrived OK. I had one that didn't one year.. We are fortunate in what our area has to offer. Let me know which ones you especially liked. It might even make you want to come over for a visit.

I worked as a postal clerk for 37 years before I retired, and WE never got that long of a holiday break at OUR post office......

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 29 Dec 16 - 10:16 PM

There were six of us at the house this afternoon when we opened the box from Pocatello and learned all sorts of things, both interesting and useless, about Idaho and the upper Rocky Mountain region. Spices, bread mix, books, candies, postcards (French? maybe that's what you missed when someone took the box away from you and mailed it?) and some great refrigerator magnets. And a CD of Walt Robertson, American Northwest Ballads Sung by Walt Robertson, with Guitar. He was an icon in the Pacific Northwest folk community. It's always nice to see these recordings come out from Smithsonian Folkways - it means they're going to stick around, that they're important.

Now, WHO, oh WHO could be my secret Santa? ;-)

Thank you, Mike, and your silent partner, Pat!

.

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 30 Dec 16 - 02:14 AM

not that I want to upset you, Severn, but Australians (public/government employees & private employees) get 4 weeks holidays + an assortment of public holidays each year! Everyone is entitled to Christmas Day & Boxing Day, but Post office employees also get an extra day off at Christmas.

sandra (10 years retired)

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: jacqui.c
Date: 30 Dec 16 - 01:14 PM

Thank you Santa (Sandra in Sydney?) for the gifts. I had to wait to play the CD until today, when it went into the CD player in the car. Unfortunately my hire car in the UK, being very new and not knowing any better, did not have a CD player and there wasn't a lot of time to listen at either of my children's houses. So far I have really enjoyed what I'm hearing.

I loved the knitting bag, with the applique leaves, great for taking my crochet with me and keeping it from getting tangled up in my bag.

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 30 Dec 16 - 06:09 PM

I meant to pop a length of wool in the bag in case it's purpose wasn't obvious!

Phyl is a great singer & songwriter & a lovely friend. If you want to hear the rest of her life's work it's all available for download on her website - except for her latest album which you have.

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Firecat
Date: 31 Dec 16 - 08:42 AM

I got a nice surprise today! I came downstairs to find an interesting box all the way from America waiting for me, so I investigated it.

Inside I found a beautiful sparkly butterfly hair clip, a gorgeous black and silver scarf and a 3D card with swans on it! Thank you Santa!

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Rapparee
Date: 31 Dec 16 - 10:37 PM

Gee, I'd have no idea at all

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 01 Jan 17 - 03:52 AM

But you can read the mysterious white letters, I know that. :)

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: Anne Lister
Date: 02 Jan 17 - 05:47 PM

So sorry for the delay, but thank you to my Secret Santa for a package of interesting and intriguing things from Australia! We've been away since Christmas morning, with only intermittent access to the web and the internet or you would have been thanked earlier!

Happy New Year, everyone!

Anne

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: billybob
Date: 05 Jan 17 - 08:39 AM

Thank you Santa for my lovely box of goodies, I love maple sugar thank you, and I am saving the sweeties for a grey day! We played the CDs at a dinner party last evening, all 10 of us are folkies and enjoyed the music very much. This afternoon I am going to tuck myself on the settee and read the lovely book. I loved the little box it looks great with my collection.
Wishing you a healthy and happy New Year Mary.

much love

Wendy xxxxx

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: vectis
Date: 08 Jan 17 - 03:16 AM

Subject: RE: Secret Santa gift ideas & teasing - 2016
From: JennieG
Date: 12 Jan 17 - 07:00 PM

Thank you, Santa! Himself was heading out to the hardware shop this morning when he brought in an intriguing brown paper package tied up with string. Upon investigation, it proved to contain all sorts of interesting goodies!

Many thanks, and best wishes for a wonderful 2017 filled with love and peace.