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109 messages

***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***

17 Sep 19 - 10:11 PM (#4009376)
Subject: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: vectis

There were only an exclusive few takers last year but good fun was had by all who did take part.

I am happy to organise this again.

Who is interested?


17 Sep 19 - 10:55 PM (#4009382)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Stilly River Sage

You're not burned out by now? :-)

I was thinking the other day that the process, as long as it takes, probably needed to be initiated soon.

It would be nice to bring back a few former players, or invite new ones to join.

Here is last year's thread. The reason this one is allowed to run in the music section is because to play the game properly we log out and come back as hint-named guests to tease the recipients.


18 Sep 19 - 06:55 PM (#4009510)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Stilly River Sage

Pushing it back up to the top to catch the eye of potential players.


18 Sep 19 - 08:57 PM (#4009515)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: RTim

Why isn't this in BS!! Below the line....

Tim Radford


Cool your jets, Tim. These are allowed above the line because of the nature of the game - people have to post as guests to tease the recipients of their gifts. Any other remarks criticizing placement will be deleted. This is an annual one-off thread. ---holiday-mudelf


20 Sep 19 - 04:41 PM (#4009746)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Sarah the flute

I'm happy to play again
Lets hope we get a few more on board. It's always good fun and such a lovely surprise

Sarah


21 Sep 19 - 07:05 PM (#4009871)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Severn

I took a year off due to reasons I won't bother going into, but I guess life is back to the point where I can try again. Maybe I can think of some fun stories again.and get inspred.


One thing I do know is that I was thinking about coming back when I found myself singing a couple of songs one night recently that I had learned through Secret Santa presents.So Count me in again.

Or someone claiming to be me claiming to be someone else claiming to be me. As usual, "Disguise is de limit!!" Try to all be legendary in your hinting, and I'll look forward to fondly. looking back to my present when it's passed to me in the future.

'Til then is now,


23 Sep 19 - 04:40 PM (#4010090)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Sarah the flute

Good for you Severn - you are an ace Santa!


23 Sep 19 - 11:07 PM (#4010138)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: hsempl

I might like to join this year, it sounds fun, but i'm a little worried I won't know what i'm doing. But surprises are fun, both creating and receiving them.


24 Sep 19 - 11:14 AM (#4010262)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Stilly River Sage

There are hints and past year's thanks and such. The gifts should be modest and small so they can ship easily and we try to get the notifications out early enough so things going overseas arrive in time.


24 Sep 19 - 08:39 PM (#4010335)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: vectis

hsemp1 I will give everybody a name and address of their personal santee. It is then up to them to find a suitable gift or gifts to suit the person they are sending to. There will be a list posted up of each person's likes and dislikes to help you choose a gift.

The reason the thread is allowed above the BS line is because santas often log out, sign in with a suitable but false name, and tease their santee about their gift in a christmassy way. You can check out old threads to see how this works.

Hand made items and recordings from santa's place of origin are often part of the gift package. I have a much treasured Jacqui Morse shawl that I got when she was my santa many years ago.

I have become the organiser because I now live in New Zealand and home made treats are not allowed because they may contain biohazards which would, potentially, destroy our export crops. It is also very expensive to post down here. I loved my Secret Santa gifts when I lived in the UK.

Hope this answers some of your questions.


24 Sep 19 - 08:40 PM (#4010336)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: vectis

There used to be a limit on the cost of gifts but I can't remember what it was, about $20 if memory serves.


25 Sep 19 - 08:35 AM (#4010421)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Severn

Sarah, you do a good job as a Santa in return. Through the years of doing this, I have been both Santa and Santee to a number of you and have always enjoyed the giving, getting and teasing immmensely.


26 Sep 19 - 05:59 PM (#4010691)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Sarah the flute

Bump up to the top to get some more takers


29 Sep 19 - 06:14 PM (#4011127)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: vectis

Refresh


29 Sep 19 - 08:27 PM (#4011149)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Stilly River Sage

How about we each send a PM to someone we've had as a Santee or Santa before and invite them to join?


05 Oct 19 - 09:01 PM (#4012092)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: vectis

If there are no more takers, maybe this wonderful section of Mudcat history has run its course?


05 Oct 19 - 09:20 PM (#4012093)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Rapparee

I'm in.


05 Oct 19 - 09:26 PM (#4012096)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Rapparee

I suggest waiting until Getaway is well over.


05 Oct 19 - 10:46 PM (#4012099)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Stilly River Sage

Lots of people are away from regular computing right now.


06 Oct 19 - 03:39 PM (#4012241)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: vectis

Thanks for letting me know that Getaway is on at the moment.


10 Oct 19 - 12:16 PM (#4012904)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Firecat

I'm in if it's still on! :-)


10 Oct 19 - 12:47 PM (#4012907)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Stilly River Sage

Good for you!


13 Oct 19 - 05:04 PM (#4013451)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: vectis


15 Oct 19 - 09:21 PM (#4013884)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Severn

Do we have the preferences and teasing threads up yet?


15 Oct 19 - 11:31 PM (#4013894)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Stilly River Sage

Not yet. Still trying to round up participants.


17 Oct 19 - 07:54 PM (#4014247)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Severn

Where have they all gone?
(Long time passing.....)


17 Oct 19 - 08:50 PM (#4014252)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Rapparee

Sev, nobody likes presents anymore.


19 Oct 19 - 10:39 AM (#4014415)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Stilly River Sage

Back to the top.


21 Oct 19 - 08:22 PM (#4014772)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Rapparee

Jingle bells, jingle hells, jingle all the what? where?


24 Oct 19 - 12:46 PM (#4015196)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Stilly River Sage

Any more players want to join this annual bit of fun?


31 Oct 19 - 04:17 PM (#4016431)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Sarah the flute

Happening?????


31 Oct 19 - 11:17 PM (#4016517)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Severn

Will a present be passed in the future?


01 Nov 19 - 11:25 AM (#4016598)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Severn

I made friends (and even visited a few) from the Secret Santa, learned about distant places,received music, some of which I have learned and still sin, and have had fun writing elf stories and odd poetry. I am glad that what I sent was well received. I would hate to see it passed away like the Chat Room and a few other things I miss. Things change and people come and go. Some die and some get old and some just lose interest.I hope that Secret Santas,the tavern, the recovery ward and such can manage to live on somehow, because they deserve to.


01 Nov 19 - 11:27 PM (#4016757)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: vectis

I am happy to go with the six takers if everyone is
a) still in and
2) happy to try with so few.

We have

Stilly River Sage
Sarah the Flute
Severn
Raparee
Firecat and
hsempl

Everyone good to go as we don't seem to have any other takers.

I will need hsempl to let me know their real name, postal address and an e-mail address in case of emergency need to contact you. Otherwise all contacts will be through the PM system.

Good to go folks?


02 Nov 19 - 12:03 AM (#4016758)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Stilly River Sage

It's a very small sample, but it'll work. :)


02 Nov 19 - 10:11 PM (#4016932)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Severn

How will I keep my anonymity? In the freezer til next year? Maybe things will be well thawed out beforehand. Let's get some sizes and preferences and colors on file so we know what size, color and breed of pony gets left under the tree....

Money limit? Wel? Then make it a Quarter Horse, instead.....

I am ready to find out about new places and the people and music there..........


03 Nov 19 - 01:21 PM (#4017025)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Sarah the flute

Yes I'm good to go!


05 Nov 19 - 09:14 PM (#4017400)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: vectis

You know the drill - give as much info as possible to help Santa bring the stuff you want. If you've played before and there are no changes copy and paste from last year.


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? (specify VHS if you don't have a DVD player)

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 hints about things such as allergies etc are also useful to your Santa.


05 Nov 19 - 09:16 PM (#4017401)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: vectis

we will be running with only five people as hsempl has not responded via this thread or via PMs. I will send your recipients details soon.


05 Nov 19 - 10:35 PM (#4017404)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Stilly River Sage

Vectis,

If you want to participate you can send me your information and you can just act surprised!


06 Nov 19 - 12:12 PM (#4017509)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Severn

Age 70 (71 on 12-30-19)

Gender Male

Color. Green, Blue, tan or yellow (a redhead's complexion)

Books. Traditional music songbooks from your area or books about he music. Something You wrote or a mystery from your favorite author

Music--CDs or even LPs of traditional ballads or folk music from your area ( I do a Ballad based Folk Music radio show so it might just end up being played on the air with a shout out to you). Your own CD. Music from your favorite local bar bands of any genre.

X-Large T shirts

Collect old porcelain advertising signs and thermometers

No movie unless you're in them

No jewelry

I am a type 2 diabetic.I

No allergies


06 Nov 19 - 12:16 PM (#4017511)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Severn

Porcelain enamel metal advertising campaign signs and thermometers, that is...


06 Nov 19 - 04:26 PM (#4017570)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: vectis

Thank you Stilly but the restrictions here for incoming stuff is harsh because the country is dependent on agriculture. So it is easier not to risk parcels being destroyed on entry.


06 Nov 19 - 05:06 PM (#4017575)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Stilly River Sage

What is allowed?


06 Nov 19 - 05:35 PM (#4017584)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Rapparee

1. What is your age range? Somewhere between dirt and rocks.

2. Gender? Let me look...male.

3. Do you have a favorite color? Wine red or maybe deep blue

4. Favorite authors/type of book? Books with pages and binding, please.

5. What books have you really been wanting? Recently? O'Malley's "When Bishops Meet: An Essay Comparing Trent, Vatican 1, and Vatican II." (A friend reviewed it and says it's pretty good.)

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

7. What CDs have you really been wanting? Charlie Ipcar's latest.

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

9. What is your t-shirt size? XXL

10. Do you collect anything? if so, what? Experiences and books.

11. What are some of your other hobbies? Target shooting.

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

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

14. Remember that hints about things such as allergies etc are also useful to your Santa. I am deathly allergic to strychnine, arsenic trioxide, and uncontrolled bleeding.


07 Nov 19 - 01:23 PM (#4017671)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Firecat

1. What is your age range? I'm 35 (36 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? Quiz books, autobiographies, that sort of thing

5. What books have you really been wanting? Chalet School ones - I've lost most of mine!

6. What type of music do you like? Rock, pop, soundtracks, musicals

7. What CDs have you really been wanting? The Greatest Showman soundtrack, or the Assassins one (Stephen Sondheim)

8. What movies have you been wanting? (specify VHS if you don't have a DVD player) None that I can think of

9. What is your t-shirt size? Medium/large

10. Do you collect anything? if so, what? Coins, facts, Pokemon plushies, Doctor Who stuff, pin badges, Harry Potter stuff (Ravenclaw only)

11. What are some of your other hobbies? Quizzing, supporting Doncaster Rovers, colouring, sleeping

12. Do you prefer gold-tone or silver-tone jewelry? Silver, but I'm very picky about what jewellery I wear

13. Please include anything else you feel is important that would help your Secret Santa know what you would like. I'm autistic, partially sighted, and terrified of clowns and dogs. I also hate pink.

14. Remember that hints about things such as allergies etc are also useful to your Santa. I'm diabetic, and allergic to sodium metabisulphate and nickel silver.


07 Nov 19 - 06:09 PM (#4017744)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Sarah the flute

1. What is your age range? Getting older every year

2. Gender? Female

3. Do you have a favorite color? purple, dark blue, red

4. Favorite authors/type of book? folk music books and song books
5. What books have you really been wanting? Surprise me
6. What type of music do you like? folk especially on unusual or ancient instruments or ancient songs or music hall songs or anything you have made
7. What CDs have you really been wanting? surprise me!

8. What movies have you been wanting? nothing really

9. What is your t-shirt size? large but not a great fan on t shirts unless V necked or long tank top type

10. Do you collect anything? if so, what? strange musical instruments of the blown variery especially - we have been experimenting with playing old English and French tunes on Hulusi recently in the band My good friend also collects amusing inappropriate nun themed stuff so anything on that theme would be good too

11. What are some of your other hobbies? drawing

12. Do you prefer gold-tone or silver-tone jewelry? Silver. Anything crow or raven themed useful for band dressing up

13. Please include anything else you feel is important that would help your Secret Santa know what you would like. I'm easy to please if you do quirky, unusual etc

14. Remember that hints about things such as allergies etc are also useful to your Santa. Not allergic to anything important unless you plan to send me dental injections!!!


oooooh exciting!

Sarah


08 Nov 19 - 03:21 PM (#4018007)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Hollowfox

Is there still room for me to get in the game?


09 Nov 19 - 09:38 PM (#4018234)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: vectis

Only just squeaked in Hollowfox. You are most welcome to join.


10 Nov 19 - 03:46 PM (#4018375)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Severn

Well, "Squeak back atcha!


10 Nov 19 - 09:06 PM (#4018413)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Rapparee

Sev, my backatcha doesn't squeak -- yet.


11 Nov 19 - 01:02 AM (#4018421)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Stilly River Sage

They make an ointment for that.


11 Nov 19 - 05:14 PM (#4018518)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Hollowfox

I can only get on the Internet at work, and it's been Monday all day today, so I'll get my particulars posted tomorrow.


12 Nov 19 - 02:33 AM (#4018559)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: vectis

You should now have your santees, let snowballing battle begin... Have fun y'all


12 Nov 19 - 01:55 PM (#4018729)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Hollowfox

1. What is your age range? 70, but don't let that get in the way, e.g. I go to anime conventions as well as folk festivals. Numbers have a way of shifting, especially when you reach an age you used to think was old.

2. Gender? Female

3. Do you have a favorite color? My mother told me my taste in colors came out of a crayon box. It depends on whether I'm going to wear it or look at it.

4. Favorite authors/type of book? Folk- (lore, customs tales, music), also fantasy and science fiction, interesting history books, books by/about storytellers, singers, etc.

5. What books have you really been wanting? see #4, also, if you're in England, anything by Taffy Thomas, Duncan Williamson, Stanley Robertson. Used is just fine

6. What type of music do you like? AngloAmerican trad, middle eastern, contra and country dance tunes. I love the local cd's I've gotten from Secret Santas in the past

7. What CDs have you really been wanting? If Santa is in Canada, anything by Penny Lang, Wade Hemsworth, Chris Rawlings, or somebody you like. If in England, anything by Taffy Thomas, or something you like. I'm also big on spoken word, music hall, and humor recordings.

8. What movies have you been wanting (DVD/BluRay)? Remember, it must be for Area 1. Songcatcher (yes really), Story Finder

9. What is your t-shirt size? XL

10. Do you collect anything? if so, what? I more accumulate than collect. The house doesn't need anything, but if something tells you to get it to me, that's fine. I'm not big on cutesy stuff, though.

11. What are some of your other hobbies? Reading, counted cross stitch, history re-enactment (mostly for the neat classes) cooking.

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. Please remember that this is a menu to choose from, not an invoice list! *Used books, cd's, dvd's are fine, even preferred.*
I am omnivorous, and I've liked every Mudcat Christmas ornament I've ever gotten.

14. Remember that "negative hints" such as allergies might also be helpful. Please don't break your neck (as my gran would say) over this. Have fun with it.


13 Nov 19 - 07:32 PM (#4018984)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Seeker at Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: GUEST,Carole, The Ancient Yuletide Troll

Stilly,

How come when I'm deep in the Colder-Than-A-Landlord's-Hearts of Texas and shivering worse than I do back home due to not bringing a heavy coat. There's some sort of Elfin Flu epidemic this year and I thought I'd volunteer to go someplace warm to help out. People in Stetsons are skating on the dRiver Stilly while The Texas Troubadors are playing "The Skaters Waltz Across Texas".

Hey! What gives(for Xmas), anyway?


14 Nov 19 - 01:48 PM (#4019164)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Stilly River Sage

Here we go:

1. What is your age range? Old enough to retire

2. Gender? F

3. Do you have a favorite color? Guess

4. Favorite authors/type of book? I'm reading some of the older mysteries by Lawrence Block lately.

5. What books have you really been wanting? Rephrase: How many books have you discared lately because you have way too many?

6. What type of music do you like? Folk, blues, jazz, classical. I have lots of classical.

7. What CDs have you really been wanting? Yours

8. What movies have you been wanting? (specify VHS if you don't have a DVD player) I'm in zone 1. DVD. I have NetFlix and stream stuff so I can't think of anything in particular.

9. What is your t-shirt size? L; if it's cotton that isn't pre-shrunk, Extra Large. Unless it's meant to be a sleep shirt, in which case, a couple of more X's in there are great.

10. Do you collect anything? if so, what? Dust, dog hair. . . nothing I can think of that is easy or cheap to mail.

11. What are some of your other hobbies? Photography. You could send me one of those new mirrorless models. I've used Canons for years but I'd happily switch to Nikon. ;-)

12. Do you prefer gold-tone or silver-tone jewelry? No-tone; I'm allergic to enough things that it's probably best to skip jewelry unless it is the kind of thing that pins onto clothing, not against the skin.

13. Please include anything else you feel is important that would help your Secret Santa know what you would like. Keep it small, don't stress out finding extreme novelties. I enjoy checking out the newspaper things are wrapped in, if it's that kind of gift, to see what is going on in your neck of the planet.

14. Remember that hints about things such as allergies etc are also useful to your Santa.Coconut and it's various products (sodium laurelth sulfate, for example, is in soaps and shampoos and lotions). Details.


15 Nov 19 - 12:18 PM (#4019398)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: GUEST,Carole The Ancient Yuletide Troll (Stilly's

Stilly,

Texas is a large place. I took the wrong transportation at the depot and ended up on the Silly River Stage to the wrong place. Thankfully, where there are rivers, there are bridges,and where there bridges, there are trolls underneath. Unfortunately, with times as they are, many of our kind are reduced to picking the pockets of the drunken transients who have also taken to sleeping under bridges, but will think they lost their belongings downtown somewhere. Times are tough all over, and there's more to worry about than gruff goats on the roads these days.

I met a young troll named Bridgette who kindly instructed me how to get to the banks of the Stilly from the banks of the Silly and how to tell a "Stillian" from a "Silly 'un"....

But I have already found some amusing trinkets on the way, and now as I approach a rustic span and hear a voice sweetly singing "Oft' In The Stilly Night", I know I have found the right place!

Maybe I can finally pull up a bridge and take a nap, or even two if they're small....


19 Nov 19 - 04:35 PM (#4020423)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: GUEST,S'elf help

Wree fretch for the clueless


26 Nov 19 - 12:44 PM (#4021201)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: GUEST,Imiko the Festive (Hollow)Fox

Shopping has begun. It will continue for now. I am watching you...


27 Nov 19 - 03:00 PM (#4021396)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: GUEST

Finally! An elf report! I know I had volunteered for emergency duty this year, but even though the Trolls are in place, having not gotten to big for their bridges, and the Garden Gnomes are still guarding gardens like the Gardening Angels they're supposed to be, I had not seen any of Santa's Scout Elves wandering about or filing their reports.

Speaking of gardening angels, Shhhhhhh!........there's Stilly now!


27 Nov 19 - 04:18 PM (#4021414)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: GUEST,Carole The Ancient Yuletide Troll's XmasStil

Whoops! That last one was me. Hooda Guest?

She has stepped outside to take a look at the yard while contemplating shutting things down for the Winter, raking the leaves, pruning the shrubbery and brushing the sage. She's looking great, especially for one of Stilly's Sage Group. What's more, she actually looks like her description, which my Elf Trainer warned that some Santees, male and female, occasionally are guilty of giving out sizes, weights and hair colours with discrepancies in either direction. Hopefully, there will be no unhappy returns of the day after.....


01 Dec 19 - 05:56 PM (#4021864)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: vectis


01 Dec 19 - 08:16 PM (#4021878)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: GUEST,Tröll Undirbrúnni

Dear Sarah the Flute,

This is not my first language so please not to think I am being dumkopf. You will get a package from me, perhaps sooner if UK stays in EU.

HOLA!! Are you going to be sorry surprised!


Your Secret Santa,
Tröll Undirbrúnni


02 Dec 19 - 11:01 AM (#4021938)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Sarah the flute

Ho Ho the trolls are out in force. Fear not troll those of us that have an Irish passport fear not the great B day heh heh! I look forward to secret undercover packages and rest assured I am being very good!!!

Thank you Santa


02 Dec 19 - 11:35 AM (#4021940)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: GUEST,Rapparee's deliberative Santa

What do you deliver to a santee who is as old as dirt and rocks?

Geschossen Wiad Ab Mitternact? El Club Social de Cheyenne? You'd have to visit the North Pole to view one of those, I fear, due to the zone.

Sigh

I'll keep looking . . .

Now back to more of that Long Winter's Nap. The warehouse in good working order and no computerized robot is ever going to do a better job than elves with OCD.


02 Dec 19 - 02:35 PM (#4021965)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Severn

Hello Santa!
Hello Elves!
Time for you
To reveal yourselves!


03 Dec 19 - 08:08 PM (#4022157)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: GUEST,Firey feline's SS

Hello firecat.
By the logs you are sat
But soon the time is nigh
To look to the sky


04 Dec 19 - 06:59 PM (#4022298)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secretive Sanity 2019 ***-_-***
From: GUEST,Carole The Ancient Yuletide Troll

I must say that Stilly's photos do her justice, even though they're almost impossible to find. In fact, my new friend "Highway Pat" Troll had to use some of his law enforcement contacts to get them.Justice does her photos, so she'd better do her photos judtice. Happy to know, the photos were all on Drivers Liscences and other legal IDs. According to records, this lady has been extra good. I'm sure that Santa will keep that in mind.....


08 Dec 19 - 11:19 PM (#4022938)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: vectis


10 Dec 19 - 08:35 AM (#4023092)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: GUEST,Firey feline's SS

...and the sleigh is off nice and quick
This Santa hasn't missed a trick
Despite the forecast for snow and more
Soon a knock upon your door
Soon a parcel on the mat
If you've been a good firey cat

Enjoy!


12 Dec 19 - 11:01 AM (#4023318)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Severn

Still no word. I suppose that's the secret part, as well as the ultimate tease, so I guess you're just following instructions.....


12 Dec 19 - 11:34 AM (#4023327)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: GUEST,Imiko the Festive (Hollow)Fox

Your parcel is sent.
It should arrive by Christmas.
Hope you like your gifts!


12 Dec 19 - 01:19 PM (#4023348)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: GUEST, Rapparee's delighted Santa

The elves have set aside the eggnog long enough to round up the items I requested. This parcel will go out on the scheduled sleigh (via the polar route, of course) and arrive before all of the needles have fallen from your Yule (or Dies Natalis Solis Invicti) tree! Whatever, your parcel will be launched soon.


12 Dec 19 - 10:02 PM (#4023449)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: GUEST,Tröll Undirbrúnni

Ah, yes, Sarah the Flute.

My untertröllen report on you regularly. "Good" is, in your case, relative. Compared to, oh, Elizabeth Bathory, you've been pretty good. Compared to, maybe, Joan of Arc, well, perhaps not so good. But I shall endeavor to collect some small items for you that will fit your situation and very shortly send them on their way. I do so hope that British Customs will allow such things through, as what is permitted here in Iceland might not be permitted Elsewhere.


15 Dec 19 - 07:54 AM (#4023843)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Sarah the flute

....aha so if you are in Iceland Santa I went there 2 years ago for Christmas - a memorabloe Christmas morning in the Blue Lagoon watching the sun rise and then the Northern Lights in the evening. Watch out for the Christmas cat and the Yule boys....but I've been too good for that. I didn't think Scarpi was on the list for SS so maybe this is a little tease! Word of warning though I am taking to the skies in a week to Moscow so don't worry if the parcel is late.


17 Dec 19 - 12:32 PM (#4024224)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: GUEST,Carole, Stilly's Ancient Yuletide Troll

Well, it looks like I'm pretty much through gathering goodies, and since Stilly's been the Acme of good behavior and a sterling example to us all, I have forwarded my report to The Man In Charge with recommendations that she be amply rewarded. I even pasted a gold star on the report.

Speaking of such things, while searching for high quality presents for Stilly, I noticed that the pawn shops in Texas had three stars over the door rather than the three balls I'm used to seeing and finally realised why they call it "The Loan Star State".

My job being over, it's time to go home, so I give my special thanks to my new friend "Highway Pat" Troll and to the wonderful hospitality to be found in general under the bridges of Texas. I've got my bags packed and I'm ready troll.

To Stilly, I wish the best of holidays and a Wondersome year! I hope you enjoy your loot.


19 Dec 19 - 06:46 PM (#4024696)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: vectis


19 Dec 19 - 08:19 PM (#4024701)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: GUEST,Tröll Undirbrúnni

Sarah, I have asked Gluggagægir to watch you and make reports. Oh dear are they interesting. I think I shall sell them to Dagblaðið Vísir or the Daily Mail or both. That will pay me back the money I have spent on your presents. As soon as one more comes I will post them.


19 Dec 19 - 08:37 PM (#4024707)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Sarah the flute

aaaaaarrrrrrgggghhhhhh! Daily Mail
I have a swearing Santa!!!!


21 Dec 19 - 09:41 PM (#4024788)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: GUEST, Rapparee's Secret Santa's concierge

Your Secret Santa dispatched me to personally send the elves and reindeer with a special delivery parcel to (let me look at this scribbled note) the house near the golf course. I hope that makes sense - there is a GPS tag associated with the delivery, in case Santa's regular evening drink of Scotch caused any slurring of the address card.


22 Dec 19 - 07:56 AM (#4024855)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Rapparee

That's good. Did the GPS address include the information that I live in an old silver mine (played out, of course) 354 feet underground? Instead of the traditional chimney Santa uses and old ventilation shaft to get in and an ore car (pulled by a mule) to get out. I'll never forget the year that Santa kicked back a quart of egg nog, forgot to exit the ore car on the left, slid down the dump chute into the stamping mill, and was only rescued when eight tiny reindeer stamped the stamping mill to pieces.


22 Dec 19 - 12:30 PM (#4024905)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Severn

No word as of yet, but still my faith remains unshaken and not unstirred, either.

Oh, Oh, Severn, are secret agents rather than elves handling thy gifts? When will they make their presents known?

Build suspense, and they will come......


26 Dec 19 - 09:50 PM (#4025047)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: GUEST,Severn's Secret Santa

The Cat's finally up! and I can finally reach you!I lost your address,and I appreciate your patience. The pressure will get to you asap.


26 Dec 19 - 10:11 PM (#4025052)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: GUEST, Rapparee's Satisfied Secret Santa

The GPS pinged when it neared the golf course and stopped moving on the tracking screen last Tuesday (while Mudcat was offline.) I believe it was dropped with a parachute from a low-flying drone and that's why it was so close to the golf course fence instead of near the driveway.


27 Dec 19 - 12:06 PM (#4025108)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Stilly River Sage

Santa? Maybe it's too warm right now for the reindeer? (I think today is in the low-70s). You may have to send the elves on foot.


27 Dec 19 - 12:43 PM (#4025111)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: GUEST,Carole, Stilly's Ancient Yuletide Troll

Stilly,

Going up some stairs made for ordinary humans while staying with a city friend for a change on the way to deliver your goods, I fell and managed to throw out my back and it took awhile for some of us to find just where it got thrown and which container it got thrown into, but my back is back and better, so I am back on my way. I tried to reach you sooner, but the Cat was suffering from Down Syndrome again, and whatever, I will be late but am on my way back to Sycamore Creek. Please be patient.

That'll teach me not to get too big for my bridges.


27 Dec 19 - 09:07 PM (#4025145)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Rapparee

My pressies came in time for Christmas! I now know more about Vatican I and the Council of Trent than I ever really wanted to -- thank you, SS!

For technical reasons the ones I'm sending out aren't out yet (i.e., one of them didn't come until yesterday).


28 Dec 19 - 01:12 AM (#4025157)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Stilly River Sage

It sounds like the elves were roughhousing, which is always fun until someone gets hurt. Additionally, I've heard about northern areas (Anchorage, AK, for example) where in the last few years where there used to be just snow there has been rain on top of snow, leading to ice - and accidents. Whichever it is, rowdy elves or climate change, get well soon, Santa!


30 Dec 19 - 08:33 PM (#4025577)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: GUEST,Tröll Undirbrúnni

Ah, Sarah the Flute! Your package was posted today to the address given. The item for which I was waiting arrived and everything was immediately packaged and shipped. Depending on our postal system and the Royal Mail you should get your presents in, perhaps, June or July.


31 Dec 19 - 06:36 AM (#4025620)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Sarah the flute

Thank you Troll .....I have a little inkling as to who you might be from an earlier post and so was not too worried! Only just back from Christmas in Russia - warmest winter in 133 years so no snow :(
I'll keep an eye out in July then for parcels - just in time for my birthday heh heh!


31 Dec 19 - 06:39 AM (#4025622)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: GUEST,Firey feline's SS

Hoping something arrived for you before christmas?


31 Dec 19 - 08:08 AM (#4025637)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Firecat

Hi Santa!

Yes, it did, thank you!

I was good and didn't open the parcels until The Day, but every time I tried to get on here to say thank you, I got told it was down.

I love all of my pressies, especially the Chalet School book and the Greatest Showman soundtrack - I've been listening to This Is Me on repeat :-)

I do know your identity, but I'm not going to reveal it as there are so few of us playing :-)

Happy New Year!


01 Jan 20 - 02:26 PM (#4025777)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Stilly River Sage

[sigh]

Still waiting for Santa. . .


01 Jan 20 - 06:17 PM (#4025824)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Rapparee

Dear SS:

I really like the Ellis Island cookbook. I'll be using that! Also, here I am in Spokane with all those bishops and gummi animals.


07 Jan 20 - 09:54 AM (#4026772)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Rapparee

I guess the present I sent was taken by The Dark Side.


07 Jan 20 - 10:19 AM (#4026780)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Stilly River Sage

The post office has been challenged here lately. I ordered something for a family gift back in early December; two parts of it arrived but the other, according to the tracking info, disappeared from sight for a week at a transfer station. I have an email saying it arrives today, but I'm not holding my breath.

Haven't seen hide-nor-hair of any Secret Santa parcels here.

Could this be a clue?


07 Jan 20 - 06:45 PM (#4026906)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Sarah the flute

Yaaay ! Rapparee - guess what arrived by sant's Royal Mail today A wonderful parcel with interesting raven themes goodies! Thank you so much - love the T shirt and the dangke (now in my car) and have already used the lip balm. There's not a lot to say really about fossilised animal dung but it is certainly a talking point!!! Thank you too for sharing the raven tale. A fantastic post Christmas surprise. Thank you so much Rapparee Santa


10 Jan 20 - 08:49 PM (#4027580)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Stilly River Sage

Still nothing, Santa. . .


14 Jan 20 - 05:48 PM (#4028362)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Stilly River Sage

Still waiting for those big bridges . . .


15 Jan 20 - 10:13 AM (#4028471)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Severn

I am still waiting on my present


15 Jan 20 - 10:36 AM (#4028475)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: GUEST,Carole, The Ancient Yuletide Troll

Medical problems under control. Meanwhile there have been a few more additions, so the wait should be well worth it.


15 Jan 20 - 08:30 PM (#4028552)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Stilly River Sage

Here's hoping all of the elves are healthy in this new year!


27 Jan 20 - 08:38 PM (#4030672)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: vectis


27 Jan 20 - 10:46 PM (#4030686)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Stilly River Sage

I never received a gift, Santa.


28 Jan 20 - 02:15 PM (#4030822)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: keberoxu

for shame!
it's kind of discouraging to us lurkers
when one of you gets paired up,
sends the gift like they're supposed to,
and then never receives one.
Somebody let the side down!


28 Jan 20 - 09:09 PM (#4030900)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: vectis

I have contacted your Santa Stilly.

I am amazed that you haven't received a parcel as all of this years players are the reliable Santas of past years. Yours is usually ultra reliable.


28 Jan 20 - 09:26 PM (#4030906)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Stilly River Sage

If they tracked it this might be the time to check to see if it is still in transit or shows as "delivered" - to the wrong place, or stolen, would be the options. Knock wood that hasn't been too much of a problem here, and I have a place where parcels can be set out of sight.


14 Feb 20 - 12:16 PM (#4034218)
Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Stilly River Sage

I am getting ready to be stuck in the house for a few weeks, and this very very late parcel would provide a nice distraction, if it were to eventually to wend it's way this direction. . .