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BS: I Opened My Present

20 Dec 08 - 01:33 PM (#2520759)
Subject: BS: I Opened My Present!
From: artbrooks

Discuss your Secret Santa gleanings and make guesses on who your Santa might be!!


21 Dec 08 - 05:12 AM (#2521183)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: Anne Lister

I was allowed to open one foil-wrapped present from my stash and there was mention of "Jenn". From this and the various New Mexico clues I'm guessing, Art, that you indeed are my SS ...am I right? *g*

Anne


21 Dec 08 - 06:36 AM (#2521226)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: Leadfingers

Mine is supposed to arrive after the weekend , which means the odds are I wont see it till AFTER Christmas , as I am off to visit Family on Tuesday .


21 Dec 08 - 08:56 AM (#2521302)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: artbrooks

Was I insufficiently subtle? Yeah, verily, it is I. Or should that be me?


21 Dec 08 - 09:41 AM (#2521321)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: artbrooks

Anyway, it being the actual Solstice, and since we are going out of town and I didn't want to schlep extra stuff to San Antonio, I opened my present.

It comes from Wales, and the return address is that of an organization called Music Traditions of Wales, Ltd. Many treasures (a book about beer - yea!), including a CD of Welsh music, a Christmas ornament inscribed in Welsh and a Welsh cookbook (chocolate - yea!). Is it reasonable to guess that my Secret Santa is from Wales, or is he or she pulling a fast one? Who do I know in Wales? Carole and Andrew? My very own Santee? (Liz wouldn't do that - would she?)


21 Dec 08 - 12:11 PM (#2521441)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: Anne Lister

Well, thank you so much (in advance) not-so-secret Santa ... and no, I'm not your SS this time around at least. Although as you know I am in Wales. There are a few of us here to choose from, mind you, in addition to Carole and Andrew.

Anne


21 Dec 08 - 12:57 PM (#2521500)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: gnu

I don't have a SS nor am I one. BUT, I got a PM on Friday that a prezzie was sent by courier and should be here tomorrow or the next day.

I won't say which 'Catter was so generous, but I don't know if I should be eagerly anticipating it's arrival or if I should be very afraid... very, very afraid.

curiousgnu


22 Dec 08 - 08:28 AM (#2522137)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: GUEST,LTS pretending to work

"My very own Santee? (Liz wouldn't do that - would she?)"

Oh Art... and I thought you knew me better than that....!

I usually would but as I'm pretending to work, I can't actually check at this time...

Bruahahahhaaaaaa!!!


I opened a couple of Solstice presents on Saturday/Sunday... thanks Lady P, how did you guess I'd love the chocolate truffles?! The remainder will wait until Christmas day.

LTS


24 Dec 08 - 07:57 AM (#2523729)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: artbrooks

r


24 Dec 08 - 08:07 AM (#2523740)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: Sandra in Sydney

it's no longer Christmas Eve, it's Christmas day here BUT I won't be opening my pressie cos I always open my pressie/s at brekkie time on Christmas Day & I haven't yet had a sleep between Christmas Eve & Christmas Day.

sandra


24 Dec 08 - 05:25 PM (#2524110)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: JennieG

I have opened mine, and my Santa is Joybell! Thank you so much, Santa Joy!

Cheers
JennieG


24 Dec 08 - 05:35 PM (#2524115)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: Joybell

Hard to pretend I was in another country at the present-arrival stage. Have a lovely day Jennie.
Cheers, Joy


24 Dec 08 - 05:43 PM (#2524118)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: Sandra in Sydney

I opened mine - a knitted knitting bag (so cool - black & red - 2 of my 3 my favourite colours), a small silvery needle case (bought as part of a job lot with lace bobbins), 3 sets of mini-chrissy decorations (cute miniature lights!, santas, a quartet of santa, snowman, tree & angel) & a mini Santa jack-in-the-box, a handcrafted purple box (my other favourite colour!!), a magazine from Yorkshire & a handcrafted card with note saying the pressie & postcard were posted by elvi who were travelling.

So thankyouy crafty knitting lacemaking secretive santa!

sandra (ex-lacemaker)


24 Dec 08 - 05:45 PM (#2524119)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: Joybell

AND
My Santa is Zen. I'm sure of it. Been chasing clues.
I'm sitting here, with my latest Magpie, admiring a beautiful alpaca silver and mother-of-pearl jewel box. I'm wearing a gemstone bracelet and reading about the geology of part of Scotland.
Such a thoughtful and clever Santa.
I'm so happy. Thank you so much, Zen.
Cheers, Joy


24 Dec 08 - 06:12 PM (#2524132)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: GUEST,Sandra in Sydney's Secret Santa

MERRY CHRISTMAS SANDRA

Hope you have the best dressed 6" Christmas trees in Sydney :o)

Not Christmas day here yet.

Have a lovely day

Secret Santa. (?Who...)


24 Dec 08 - 08:42 PM (#2524196)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: Maryrrf

I was given permission by my Secret Santa to open my present(s) on Christmas Eve, so I did! Okay Santa you really had me fooled - I was sure you were in the UK but no - you hail from Denmark. So it must be BFDK (and the little dachshund statue really makes me pretty sure that's the case!). What an assortment of goodies - I've got them all spread out on the coffee table and I can't believe you managed to fit them all into that small mailing parcel! Beautiful Danish tree ornaments, dangly earrings, tea, Christmas socks, two little doggie statuettes, pens and pencils, and a lovely CD by Martyn Wyndham, plus a teensy sample of some chocolately looking goodies. Missie enjoyed nosing through all the wrapping paper. Thank you Bente (It is you, isn't it?!)

BTW there was a beautiful card from SLAPPER aka LTS - did you make it? It's really lovely!


25 Dec 08 - 03:21 AM (#2524290)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: GUEST

hello Joybell
My name is Tanis. I am sorry to contact you when you dont know me but i have a bit of a situation. I work in aged care and one of my clients has just lost her husband. The song you posted a little of....barefoot boy .....has some significance to her as it was playing when they first met. She has ask me to try to find her a copy of it but since i have never heard of it, I am finding it difficult. Your post is the first clue I have found to in a very long search. She is hoping to get a copy of it to play at her husbands funeral so i would appreciate any assistance you could give me in this matter. Even if you can tell me who sang it, what that actual name of the song is.......anything at all.
Thank you for you help.......my email is tanis59@yahoo.com

Tanis


25 Dec 08 - 05:17 AM (#2524322)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: bfdk

Yup, it's me, all right. I'm glad you liked the little assortment of pressies. I couldn't well give any hints about Denmark, as that would have given my identity away immediately, but Whitby was a true clue, as I was at the festival this year - and for the first time ever. But not the last, I think. I suppose I could have hinted at Sidmouth, too, but I thought Terry would have caught on to me then and whispered in your ear, so I didn't..

The dachshund statue was made by a neighbour of mine, so it's a genuine and unique 'Vagner Rasmussen' model. I've got a similar one, but no two are exactly alike, as they're hand made one at a time. The little white dog is actually a whistle. Blow the tail - or pour a bit of water into it before you blow, which should make the whistle 'trill' when blown.

In this country we celebrate Christmas on the evening of the 24th, so opening your present then is well and truly ok by our standards :-)

I hope you enjoy the remainder of Christmas and have a cracking New Year!

Best wishes,

MXG / bfdk / Bente


25 Dec 08 - 07:54 AM (#2524357)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: Leadfingers

All I know is that MY Santa is in USA , Posssibly North West , as there is NO indication of Sender . Just an Illegible name on the outside of the packet !¬ But as there is a Vancouver Folk T shirt , North West seems likely . Art Thieme in CD id well received !!
Wheever you are , Thanks very Much and have a good Christmas


25 Dec 08 - 09:47 AM (#2524385)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: Zen

Many thanks Terry (Leadfingers) for your presents! I have already raised a glass of something hot this morning in honour you made with one of the pressies and the little pink multitool has already been pressed into service!

Thank you so much and a very Happy Christmas and New Year to you!

Zen


25 Dec 08 - 04:06 PM (#2524545)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: Scooby Doo

To my Secret Santa from Oz.
Thankyou for my pressie,i been meaning to buy one of them from my local Tesco's for a long time now i got one from Oz.
I am into birds so it was good you wrote on a birdie postcard.

Happy Christmas and Thankyou for my pressie.


Love Yasmin


25 Dec 08 - 05:00 PM (#2524587)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: Liz the Squeak

Mary - it was indeed.. remind me again what the card was?

Obfuscation is one of my delights and I clear up after myself in the morning.

LTS


25 Dec 08 - 05:08 PM (#2524592)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: GUEST,Leadfingers SS

That is what you are led to believe, anyway!

Hehehehehe. . .


25 Dec 08 - 05:38 PM (#2524611)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: ClaireBear

Oh, Tig, I'm overwhelmed by your thoughtfulness. What a wondrous selection of delights you've selected for us. I was wondering why the star I usually place atop the tree was hiding from mr yesterday, and now I know: It was making room for your bright angel. I could go on for hours about how much fun we had unwrapping each wee giftie -- but perhaps I'd better do that on paper. Here I'll just say thank you, thank you, thank you for a delightful Christmas-in-a-box!

Bright blessings,
Claire


25 Dec 08 - 06:14 PM (#2524630)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: vectis

Hi Hollowfox

What a wonderful selection of pressies you sent me, including some stitchery to take with me on my travels.
The dragon pattern book is a delight as are the birds. I shall have to learn how to do longstitch so I can do justice to the transfers.
The chocolate is sooooo naughty...
But nice. Mmmmmmmmmmmmm

Thank you once again.

Mary


25 Dec 08 - 06:59 PM (#2524663)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: GUEST,Scooby Doo's Still Secretive Santa

Glad you liked the tote - I'm sure you'll be the only person in Wales carrying a University of New South Wales bag!

more Australian birds


25 Dec 08 - 07:03 PM (#2524666)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: Joybell

Tanis -- Hello. I need a bit more. Was it the song that starts
Barefoot boy sitting by the roadside...?
I don't remember posting it but I had the record of that song when I was a teenager. It was sung by Noelene Batly (?spelling) here in Australia. I could probably find the words again -- either from my head or online.
If it's not that song we Mudcatters are very good at finding songs. We enjoy doing it.

You would be very welcome here. If you joined as a member we could send you private messages -- email addresses and such.

If you don't want to join at this time just reply on this thread and I'll keep a look-out for you.
Sign in as "Guest Tanis" or another chosen guest name so that I know it's you.

I'd really like to help.
Regards, Joy


25 Dec 08 - 07:31 PM (#2524680)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: Joybell

Tanis. I searched my old postings and found the song fragment. It's the one alright. Can't find the words yet but there's a bit about the song online. It was a big hit for Noelene Bately here in Australia. It looks as though there might be a CD available. Try looking for "Barefoot Boy" + "Noelene Bately". One way or another I'm sure we can get a copy of someone singing it to you for your client. I worked in aged care for a long time -- also I'm heading into that age myself. Are you in Australia? I think the song was only known here.
Cheers, Joy


25 Dec 08 - 09:30 PM (#2524725)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: Severn

Great thanks above and way beyond the call of duty to Kim C.

Marx Bros films, a fine CD (and I'm only partially through it!) A book on Tennessee music and a fridge magnet from Nashville's Bluebird cafe. A veritable cornucopeia of riches, any small portion of which would have satisfied me. Thank you again, kind stranger and to your musical partner, as well.....

I hope you got reeated with at least a fraction of the kindness shown me.....


26 Dec 08 - 03:33 AM (#2524808)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: Cats

Thank you, Sarah The Flute, lots of new deckies for my Christmas Tree which are now all duly hung and your CD which will be played today! Really loking forward to hearing it. Thank you to Greg Stephens as well... you know what for!


26 Dec 08 - 05:06 AM (#2524830)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: Anne Lister

Thanks to Artbrooks for an impeccable choice of gifts - some fascinating books, some chocolate and some great pastries (long gone!) and a pair of beautiful earrings that I might well have chosen for myself. They will be worn a lot, and the tale told of my New Mexican SS!

Anne


26 Dec 08 - 05:51 AM (#2524844)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: greg stephens

Well, I opened my presents and very nice too. I am unable to deduce who Secret Santa is at this moment, so thanks a very big lot indeed to whoever you are. There was a letter enclosed purporting to be from Santa Claus at the north pole, which mentioned several places in Cornwall, in all of which I have played with the Boat Band. But I didn't get the impression the Santa actually knew me, though he/she met people who did know me The products sent were all Cornish treats, from Launceston, St Ives and elsewhere. The letter mentioned Mudcatters Cats and Hawker, from which I guess neither of them was my secret Santa(unless they were being very devious).
So I would deduce that my Secret Santa probably lives in Cornwall, is probably not of Cornish extraction, is probably a woman, and possibly wears long skirts. But further than that I can't go. I shall look at membership lists, and examine the letter a bit for more clues.
So, whoever you are, thanks again. You could always give me a clue!


26 Dec 08 - 06:00 AM (#2524849)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: Leadfingers

Greg - Some of these Santas are VERY Devious ! If you decide to short cut the Detective work, you can always cheat ams ask Liz the Squeak , she who knows ALL the Secrets !


26 Dec 08 - 06:04 AM (#2524850)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: greg stephens

No, I dont want to ask LtS. I am going to track this lurker myself!


26 Dec 08 - 07:37 AM (#2524873)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: Sarah the flute

I opened my big pressie and found a wonderful DVD of Miskin at Easter 2006. Although I didn't go to this I spotted a few familiar faces and some great songs and tunes. So thankyou Secret Santa although I'm no closer to discovering your identity! ... might have to give up and ask LtS.

Many thanks

Sarah


26 Dec 08 - 09:35 AM (#2524905)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: Scooby Doo

I feel very lucky to have a present from Oz even with the uni on the bag.



Thankyou again Secret Santa.


26 Dec 08 - 12:32 PM (#2524980)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: Maryrrf

Liz, the card was very simple but beautiful - white background with a green border and a silver foil design in one corner. In the middle a green ivy leaf with silvery sparkles. I see on the back that it said Handmade for ELC sold in aid of cancer research. It's lovely !


26 Dec 08 - 12:37 PM (#2524984)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: Tig

Thank you Jennie for the lovely gifts in my pressie. The candle and soap smell fabulous and will make me think of you everytime I use them - and that will be frequently.

The scarf is so soft and silky and in colours I love. I hadn't got one in those soft shades. Thanks also for my calendar. It will come in useful as I try and keep track of time.

Hope you had an excellent Christmas and have a good and peaceful New Year.

Lots of love and hugs
Tig
xxx


26 Dec 08 - 02:46 PM (#2525076)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: Mrs Cobble

Thank you santa for all the very Christmassy gifts ... A cute Christmas stocking, a sled with snowman, xmas coasters and some very sweet smelling soap, fridge magnet with reindeer and festive pot holders. A book with recipes and stories from the coast of Maine, must try the blueberry crumble yum. I forgot the festive mug and cookie tin.. but I think the elves ate the cookies as the tin was empty!

Thank you so much .

I wish you a very Happy New Year

I think you may be Becca72 ? ( if so, I do hope your santa has been in touch)

love from Mrs C


26 Dec 08 - 03:24 PM (#2525095)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: Becca72

You caught me, Mrs. Cobble! :-)

Apparently the Customs elves like cookies...hmmm...

Still haven't heard from my own Santa, though. boo hoo


26 Dec 08 - 07:44 PM (#2525231)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: Joybell

Tanis, I'll start a new thread about your song request. Maybe someone will come up with the words. Meanwhile -- I think you might have some luck with a CD from the University Of Southern Queensland. Note that I misspelled Nolene's name. It should be Noelene Batley.
Cheers, Joy


26 Dec 08 - 08:09 PM (#2525248)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: astro

Crane Driver and Sussex Carole, what a fun collection of discs and tapes -- and we are actually expecting our first frost tonight, so we're fighting over the Welsh beanie, while munching on the Cadbury's assortment. Very clever of you, Crane Driver, to get the Sheffield Carols tape into the same package!!

A very blwyddyn newydd dda to you, too!

~ Becky and Michael in Tucson


27 Dec 08 - 12:21 AM (#2525330)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: Stilly River Sage

My santee apparently went straight to the source after declaring my signature "indecipherable." And here I was kicking myself that I signed it so neatly! Duh!

SRS


27 Dec 08 - 03:08 AM (#2525350)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: open mike

i finally got my two pressies which were locked in my motor home which is in the repair shop...again.

the c.d's have been ever so cheering on this the day after christmas.

one from New South Wales and one from England.

thank you "Nixon" and "Hilary"

i didn't actually get into the secret santa game as i
did not address my request correctly--just posted in a
thread or two instead of sending directly to Liz.

so i am a lucky girl to have not one but two secret santas.

i think that means that life is getting better...
no place to go but up!!

also looking forward to sharing the chocolates and
trying some of the recipes...

yum--what beverage will go best in the great new mug?

i hear it is not good to drink acid liquids like hard cider
from pewter....is that correct?

thank you, thank you...

laurel


27 Dec 08 - 08:05 AM (#2525432)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: skarpi

havent got any


27 Dec 08 - 08:30 AM (#2525440)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: Liz the Squeak

Skarpi - yours is on it's way, honest... one of those 13 Santa's of yours is a slacker...

Escapee - yours is also on it's way but may be a wee bit late... situation beyond control and all that....

Stilly, yes I had to translate for you, Maryrrf, I remember now, so glad you like it, I had great fun making those... Kim C - you're welcome and we hope you like the other little things too.


LTS


27 Dec 08 - 08:37 AM (#2525445)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: AllisonA(Animaterra)

I've been told that mine has been delayed, also.. something about elves...


27 Dec 08 - 08:39 AM (#2525449)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: Bat Goddess

To my still anonymous Santa --

Package arrived in yesterday's post -- and I HAD to open it in the car (Curmudgeon was driving so I could do that more or less safely) which was made complicated by bulky winter attire, car on curvy road, etcet etcet.

Lovely stuff! Flamingo cross-stitch (Flamingoes? Moi?!?), earrings(es), burgundy velvet stole/scarf... Thank you!

Plus the threat, I mean, promise of more to come by New Year's. Hmmm...now THAT's a hint. Narrows it down to...the people I'd already been suspecting.

Argh!!!!

Happy Christmas! And thank you!

Linn


28 Dec 08 - 01:35 AM (#2525888)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: alison

thank you SO much Santa

I loved my stocking full of goodies - there was just so much!! now I'm waiting to find me a nice crab to try some of the recipes on that tin of "Old Bay" seasoning..............

I have no idea who you are apart from that you seem to be from Maine.......

but many many thanks again - I had great fun wading through all the pressies

slainte

alison


28 Dec 08 - 07:34 AM (#2525952)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: GUEST,Batty's extremely relieved SS

I am so glad that the parcel got there so fast - maybe a reprieve is in order for the recalcitrant elf who sent it surface mail.

By now the rest of your package should be on its merry way to your part of the world but you will have to wait a few days to receive it.

Keep a watch out for strange men bearing gifts!


28 Dec 08 - 12:18 PM (#2526061)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: GUEST,Alison's Secret Santa

Hi Alison!

Glad you like your stocking!

I'm not really from Maine, though I do spend a lot of time there and would like to claim to be "from" there. Focus instead on the origin of the Old Bay seasoning (which BTW is good with lots of other stuff besides crab...). I think I included a CD as well, which includes another hint.

Happy New Year!

Your Secret Santa


28 Dec 08 - 06:26 PM (#2526240)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: Barb'ry

I've already posted in the wrong bit... but thank you (again} most wonderful santa for all my pressies (most now departed into my ever-expanding stomach) and now give me a break and tell me who you are!!
Millions of thank yous
love and hugs
b


28 Dec 08 - 06:44 PM (#2526251)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: GUEST,Barb'ry's thread-hopping SS

See my response to your other post, Barb'ry, my dear, and I'm sure enlightenment will follow.


SS


28 Dec 08 - 07:45 PM (#2526274)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: Hawker

Well.........
I opened MY pressie!
Thank you so Much Santa! It arrived on my bed on Christmas morning, and I thought I knew who it was from due to some VERY clandestine dealings with my bearded half and cats.........but when I opened it, I swiftly realised it was a ruse to send me barking up the wrong tree. This is how my detective work has panned out.......Hmmm a lovely CD of Cheshire tunes! Did my santa know I was from Cheshire originally or are they from, Cheshire? If they were from Cheshire, do I know them? Hmmmmmmm...... KEDAL MINT CAKE !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!OMG the BEST of all!!!! I have had to put it under lock and key though, as my bearded half is determined to scoff the lot! I have allowed him a itsy bit each day since Christmas, off my square;0). So now Cheshire, Cumbria.....Then there was the small brandy bottle, I hope you dont think it sacreligious that I felt the need to add a double measure of Lovage to this to enjoy it at its best!Now where does Brandy come into this? France? Favourite tipple, name of pet dog? Hmmmmmmmm A brass loving spoon ....welsh....Now Im confused.........Ah! But wait, CD - Welsh Row Band! is that the link? the CD says Welsh Row is a street in Nantwich ......with plenty of pubs. The words and notation to While Sheperds to the tune Cranbrook - strangely enough, my favourite arrangement! Now did they know that were they told or was this a co-incidence? Hmmmmmm.......Now the last clue was a sad one for me, as I spent my youth working at a local butcher who made his own meat pies and oatcakes, Now I Just LOVE oatcakes......I was sent a price list for London Road Oatcakes, Stoke, Stoke-on-Trent.....but sadly no oatcakes;0( So I am Guessing my Santa lives in the Stoke area, has some sort of Cumbrian link, and cheshire link, possibly welsh too, though it may be a red herring........lastly the bar of yummy Green & Blacks chocolate with Ginger .....I am guessing was an indulgence and not a clue, though was the name green or Black a clue? did the santa have ginger hair? I did a lot of pondering.
On Boxing Dat I typed various things into the google bar of my laptop......Nantwich Fiddle Day 2001......up came 2002, which listed Gina la Faux and The Boat band, further investigation threw up the members of the boat band .......one name of which I recognised as a mudcatter........a click on his personal page revealed that he was from Cumbria, worked in Stoke, and then trying to read that name he had so meticulously tried to mhide on the CD..... Yes, I think I have you sussed Mr Greg Stephens, Thank you So much for your lovely gifts and fantastic clues.......am i right? iam right arent i? amI?........
Well thanks whoever you are, You made Christmas great fun trying to work out who you were and I had great fun opening all the lovely individually wrapped packages!
Cheers, Lucy x


28 Dec 08 - 09:22 PM (#2526315)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: Hollowfox

I got my pressie well in time, and happily opened it first thing Christmas morning, but I had houseguests until today, so this is my first chance to thank you, Trish Bates. You got me exactly what I wanted - music I couldn't get anywhere else! I got a cd-and-booklet set of village carols from the Royal Hotel, Dungworth, and a lovely hardback copy of the Sheffield Book of Village Carols. I've only been able to get a glance at the books and a quick listen to the cd, so now that the dust has settled, I get to savor them. Thank you so much, Mary


31 Dec 08 - 08:18 AM (#2528192)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: jacqui.c

I opened my pressie upon my return from the UK.

Thank you Barbara - I got a book on knitting and some really beautiful fine yarn in a mixture of my favourite colours. Once life settles s a little I'll have a good read and the prospect of making something pretty!


01 Jan 09 - 08:03 AM (#2528935)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: RangerSteve

My Santee's gift went out by priority mail on Tuesday. It should get there by Jan. 2. I hope.


05 Jan 09 - 10:13 AM (#2532013)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: greg stephens

WEll, I am still no nearer identifying my Secret Santa. Give me a hint, someone!


05 Jan 09 - 10:32 AM (#2532030)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: Stilly River Sage

Thank you for bringing this back up to the top! I've been meaning to respond to say that my Secret Santa parcel did indeed arrive late last week. (Notification was slow--we've had catastrophic computer failure here so I felt like I was viewing the Internet through a keyhole for a few days, and the major rebuild is due this week.) Anyway, thank you so much! Complete transparency seems to have been the rule this year--my Santee didn't beat around the bush, he just asked Liz who it was, and I received a note from my Santa saying when the box would be shipped. That is one way to remove the torture aspect of the process!

RangerSteve, I imagine these days you're not drinking the local spirits, but what kinds of foods do these go well with? Are they dessert wines? We'll have to find an occasion so several folks can taste them, but I'd like to have the right kind of food. Please advise!

Meanwhile, I'll stick the CD in and give it a listen. Thanks for sending also the local publications--that's always half the fun, reading the local newspaper. :)

SRS


05 Jan 09 - 01:00 PM (#2532151)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: SINSULL

I am still not certain but I suspect my spontaneous Secret Santa is/are Carol and Andrew. A very large bottle of Jack Daniels was presented to me from them at our pre-New Years Eve Christmas Party.

Thank you, guys! I plan to ring in the New Year once I have the house and bottle to myself.

SINS


05 Jan 09 - 09:19 PM (#2532532)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: Sandra in Sydney

I too would like to know who my Santa is! (please, at least a hint!)

Travelling elvi who send a a Gracelands postcard from Florida & post the parcel in New Zealand - a parcel that contains a magazine about YORKSHIRE & a lovely hallmarked silver needlecase that came with a batch of lace bobbins that cost PENNIES along with a knitted knitting bag & lovely box (both made by Santa?) ...


06 Jan 09 - 04:08 AM (#2532671)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: GUEST,Greg Stephens Secret Santa

The clues are all there, but, just to help, I'll send you another one. Watch for my Christmas Robins winging their way towards you.


06 Jan 09 - 05:43 AM (#2532704)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: greg stephens

Thanks for the hint, SS. Now, I thought your letter was a bit heavy-handed and odd in ther way of robin references, so I kind of thought that might be the clue area. I will go back and have another look.


06 Jan 09 - 06:05 AM (#2532712)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: GUEST,Greg Stephens Secret Santa

I thought that everyone knew that my Christmas Robins are the little birds that keep a watch on the world for me and bring me messages of what is going on and who is behaving themselves. That's why they figure so much on Christmas cards and why you have to look after them for me, especially in cold weather. Clue on its way.


06 Jan 09 - 04:32 PM (#2533386)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: greg stephens

Oh, I thought Robin must be the clue. If there's another one coming, I'll wait. The only Mudcatter with a Robin and Cornwall connection is Little Robyn, as far as I can see, and she hasn't been to Cornwall this year I think. And my SS claims she/he has. I am still in the dark.


06 Jan 09 - 06:46 PM (#2533549)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: Hawker

No Greg! Your Santa definately doesnt have a red breast......unless Santa has been playing with the face paints again..........SANTA! Nooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo! Tee Heee.
As Santa says the clues are all there.........
Cheers, from your own santee ;0)
And it isnt me either!


07 Jan 09 - 05:28 PM (#2534495)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: SussexCarole

I must have been really bad this year 'cos my santa never sent me one to open. Though his elf sent me a lovely Xmas card & decoration for my birthday.


07 Jan 09 - 05:39 PM (#2534508)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: Becca72

SussexCarole,

We should form a club. I haven't heard word one from my Santa. :-(


07 Jan 09 - 05:49 PM (#2534520)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: GUEST,Sussex Caroles Santa

Sorry Carole Santa has had a rough time of late.

You've not been bad I have.

I'll try to send something when things have settled down.

Santa


07 Jan 09 - 05:59 PM (#2534526)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: SussexCarole

Sorry you've had a tough time Santa, thanks for letting me know. No worries - perhaps save it for next year eh?

xx


07 Jan 09 - 06:16 PM (#2534550)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: Sandra in Sydney

Christmas 2010?

sandra (who was successfully writing 2009 on stuff till filling in a very official form - scratch out date & start again!)


08 Jan 09 - 03:51 PM (#2535397)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: sian, west wales

Well I had a great bundle of gifts from my Secret Santa, a.k.a. my old tea-swilling friend, Animaterra!

The Animaterra Women's Chorus CD is right up to the mark, another corker in a growing tradition of corkers. And a marvelous (hand-knit?) scarf with hint of a blue that is identical to my winter coat, and has been worn, and loved, over Christmas in Montreal and the Niagara Penninsula. And a previously-loved book of appalachian song, and some maple sugar candy and even a page of newspaper funnies! Crackin' good! Oh - and absolutely hysterical wrapping paper; toucans and flamigos and such-like wearing santa hats. LOL!

You're an absolute treasure, Allison! You'll be on people's "10 Most Wanted Santas" next year!

Hope you had a Most Excellent holiday! Happy New Year - Blwyddyn Newydd Dda!

sian


10 Jan 09 - 09:26 AM (#2537017)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: greg stephens

I still haven't got a clue. And I think I was promised a new one.


10 Jan 09 - 02:40 PM (#2537309)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: AllisonA(Animaterra)

You're welcome, dear Sian! What fun it was to get you!
(But I have no idea where the wine bottle came from... unless my dwarfish elf took matters into his own hands!)

Allison


Meanwhile, I was warned that my Santa would be late. Yup, it's late.





Waiting........


20 Jan 09 - 10:32 AM (#2544003)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: GUEST,greg stephens SS

Has your clue arrived? Look carefully at the front.


20 Jan 09 - 03:27 PM (#2544300)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: RangerSteve

I think I responded to another thread concerning my SS presents, so I'll do it again. My SS lives in Earlwood, NSW, Australia. I got two great cookbooks, and I've already found some recipes I want to try. One question, though. What's a Lamington tin? Sounds like what we call a loaf pan, but I'm not sure. Any help would be appreciated.
There was also a toy stuffed bird (a crimson rosella) that sings when you push on it's stomach. I give it a lot of play on cloudy days. A photo book of early Sydney scenes, and various other Australian souvenirs. Thanks SS.


20 Jan 09 - 04:49 PM (#2544371)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: greg stephens

Well, a clue arived, a postcard from Lingfield. Which would lead me to guess that my SS was cats, except the letter I received from SS specifically said he/she wasn't cats. So I am still floundering. More thought needed, I think.


21 Jan 09 - 04:56 AM (#2544814)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: sian, west wales

Oh! Allison, I found out that the wine was from a friend in Toronto! She had ordered it from one of those overseas 'hamper' services and they'd sent the card, but with no name on it. Of course, I didn't look at the label on the outside as I thought it was from my SS and I didn't want to know in advance. She kept asking if I'd received a 'little something' from her and I kept saying 'no'. It had the potential of turning into something of a French farce but ended up as classic English Shakespearean: All's Well that Ends Well!

Happy 2009, all!

sian, west wales


21 Jan 09 - 07:32 AM (#2544924)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: Sandra in Sydney

Steve - the lamington is Australia's national cake! It's baked in a large tin (baking dish size, not a loaf tin) & cut into 2 or 3" cubes & then covered in choccie icing & rolled in coconut

Pic & info on size of tin here!

If you need any other Australian terms explained try a Google Australia search


sandra (who does not live in Earlwood)


21 Jan 09 - 11:46 AM (#2545159)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: AllisonA(Animaterra)

Oh, good, Sian- That was a mystery on both sides of the Atlantic!
Meanwhile, those elves are really slow- I still haven't gotten any prezzie! :-(


21 Jan 09 - 03:29 PM (#2545359)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: RangerSteve

Thanks, Sandra. I think I have a baking pan that will serve the purpose. I'll try making one soon.


21 Jan 09 - 04:04 PM (#2545392)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: bfdk

My pressie arrived, too, courtesy of SS Bat Goddess.

Thank you for the assortment of goodies; a T-shirt, an excellent CD sampler with the promise of a full CD yet to come, a golden 'item of clothing' - or rather two, I'm not saying anymore.., a cute little bottle of yummi maple syrup and maple leaf shaped syrup bites, nice-smelling goat milk soaps, various ornaments and fridge magnets and a small jar of NH pebbles + a bunch of travel brochures that make me want to come and visit. Please book me onto the whale watch cruise, I missed out last time I was Pondside ;-)

Thank you Linn, a treasure trove definitely worth waiting for!

Best wishes,

Bente


30 Jan 09 - 10:27 AM (#2552899)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: Becca72

I got a present from Australia!! Thank you, Santa for the selection of sweets and little lighthouses. Can't wait to add them to my collection. I'm a little concerned about the musk flavored Lifesavers...where I come from Musk is a smell, not a flavor. :-) Oh, and let us not forget the tube of Vegemite!

Thanks again!


30 Jan 09 - 10:46 AM (#2552915)
Subject: RE: BS: I Opened My Present
From: greg stephens

I am still none the wiser. I have examined the front of my postcard clue with a magnifying glass, not interesting secret marks or anything that I can see. Just pictures of pretty buildings in Lingfield. Means nothing to me!