BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!

Subject: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 01 Sep 09 - 06:31 PM

Towersey Festival is over, the rain is turning colder and the pubs are taking bookings for Christmas meals - which means it is time again for SECRET SANTA 2009!!!


Usual rules apply.

1) Gift around £10 or US$15 or local equivalent. UK people, remember the postage rates have gone all funny... size IS important! Gift/s can be bought, made, spawned, whatever, just so long as it doesn't contravene any local arms laws or is classed as germ warfare (no sweaty socks please - we've had a couple of incidents in the past...)!

2) Send me your POSTAL address by PM if you wish to give to and receive (eventually) a gift from a Secret Santa.

3) TELL ME in your PM if you do NOT want an overseas (to your home continent) Santee.

4) I am in charge, but I'm not responsible.

SECSY
LTS

(Santa's Executive Confidential Secretary for this Year)

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Leadfingers
Date: 01 Sep 09 - 06:41 PM

I'm In !!

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: The Fooles Troupe
Date: 01 Sep 09 - 06:49 PM

I'm glad I caught this thread early. I have loved the unusual overseas objects including food items, especially that beautiful maple leaf shaped syrup bottle (full!).

I was going to suggest that while I love the idea, (and been in past years!) that the cost of postage is going insane (and needing months for surface!) so I was wondering if there was interest in a "Card only" exchange?

Any others interested, and Dear Liz, would you consider running that in parallel? :-) (It would require no less work, I fear!)

If that's not possible, then perhaps I will go for Aus only this time...

Robin (Aus)

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 01 Sep 09 - 07:16 PM

Secret Santa time!!! yah!!

wouldn't miss it for quids.

sandra

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 01 Sep 09 - 07:25 PM

I'm sure I can run a 'card only' scheme in concurrence with the gift scheme... Rules as above but make sure you put CARD ONLY somewhere in the PM.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Leadfingers
Date: 01 Sep 09 - 08:35 PM

Good Idea in this year of serious recession Liz !

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: ranger1
Date: 02 Sep 09 - 12:23 AM

Ooh, I'm in! Need some joy right about now. Pm on its way.

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: JennieG
Date: 02 Sep 09 - 02:39 AM

I'll play.....I have enjoyed playing in the past.

Cheers
JennieG

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Wyrd Sister
Date: 02 Sep 09 - 07:07 AM

I'm in!

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Becca72
Date: 02 Sep 09 - 08:49 AM

I'm so excited! I'm definitely in again this year.

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: My guru always said
Date: 02 Sep 09 - 08:57 AM

I'll probably go for it again this year, but it's very tempting to go over the top with gifts, isn't it?

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: greg stephens
Date: 02 Sep 09 - 09:11 AM

I'm in. Which reminds me, I never did discover who my last year's SS was.

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 02 Sep 09 - 09:30 AM

me, too, greg, so I asked Liz who was my Santa - surely it's time to unveil the still secretive santas

sandra

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Catherine Jayne
Date: 02 Sep 09 - 09:40 AM

I'm in too! Pm on it's way!

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Severn
Date: 02 Sep 09 - 11:38 AM

I'm back in!

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: ClaireBear
Date: 02 Sep 09 - 12:54 PM

It's the most exciting part of Christmas these days -- count me in! PM coming.

Claire

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: RangerSteve
Date: 02 Sep 09 - 05:11 PM

Just PM'd you with my address.

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: GUEST,astro and desert dancer
Date: 02 Sep 09 - 06:08 PM

We're in...we do love hearing from those overseas....we love to send those desert suckers with the scorpions in them...what a taste treat!

Thanks...we'll pm...

astro in LA (writing for DD in Tucson)

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Sarah the flute
Date: 02 Sep 09 - 07:54 PM

I'm in....love the internationalism and wouldn't miss this for anything.

Sarah

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: artbrooks
Date: 02 Sep 09 - 08:22 PM

Jenn and I are both in - and my Santa 2008 is still a mystery to me, too.

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 02 Sep 09 - 08:28 PM

the cry goes up "Out the still Secret Santas"

(please)

sandra

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 03 Sep 09 - 12:20 AM

If I can find the list, you'll know your SS from 2008 when I give you your Santee for 2009... I have to find the list otherwise some of you might get the same Santee and that wouldn't be fair... funny yes, but not fair.

SECSY
LTS

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: alison
Date: 03 Sep 09 - 04:14 AM

yes please - I'm in

slainte

alison

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: GUEST,Secret of the 'Art
Date: 03 Sep 09 - 07:51 AM

Good grief, Art! I thought you'd worked it out!

And I got you all the stuff you asked for : the boat, the pony, ... can't remember it all!

And so many clues! Even where I work! Gonna send you a giant inflatable daffodil and have Jenn beat you over the head with it until the light dawns ...

SotA

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 03 Sep 09 - 09:59 AM

I'm in.

I know what I've enjoyed receiving most is stuff related to the giver's home location, etc. This sort of thing doesn't have to be HEAVY (and thus can cut down on postage costs).

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 03 Sep 09 - 11:00 AM

I'll send my PM, and also count me in if we have any Secret Santas go walkabout. Things happen, and knowing you have a backup for such an occasion will make it go better if a Santa gets stuck in one of those chimneys and can't go on. . .

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: jacqui.c
Date: 03 Sep 09 - 11:41 AM

What SRS said. PM follows.

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: GUEST
Date: 03 Sep 09 - 02:10 PM

I'll play again too please. Quite missed it the year I had to drop out.

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Cats
Date: 03 Sep 09 - 06:03 PM

I'm in.

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: maire-aine
Date: 03 Sep 09 - 08:14 PM

Me too, please. PM on the way.

maryanne

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Nancy King
Date: 03 Sep 09 - 08:18 PM

Good grief, is it that time already? OK, count me in. PM to follow.

Nancy

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Mrs Cobble
Date: 04 Sep 09 - 03:48 PM

I'm in



Hi Sandra in Sydney...... I'm afraid I was your SS last year!!!!   I didn't realize I was still SECRET.


Mrs C

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: vectis
Date: 04 Sep 09 - 03:51 PM

I'm in too. PM on way

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Eye Lander
Date: 04 Sep 09 - 04:04 PM

Me me me, I want to play too please.   PM as we speak.

Jillie

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Hollowfox
Date: 05 Sep 09 - 04:45 PM

Whoop! I'm in.

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 06 Sep 09 - 01:03 PM

Keep it coming chaps... only another 24 days left to sign up!

SECSY
LTS

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: AllisonA(Animaterra)
Date: 06 Sep 09 - 07:30 PM

Me, me! My Santa prezzie never came last year, but hope springs eternal...

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: SharonA
Date: 07 Sep 09 - 10:20 AM

I don't always play, but I wanna play this year! It'll be a bright spot in an otherwise dim recession. Hope the spare change under my car seats adds up to the $15 plus the postage... ;-)

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 07 Sep 09 - 07:25 PM

one year I received a book & bookmark - flat pressie in an envelope = less postage than sending 3-D items in a box!

sandra

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: quokka
Date: 07 Sep 09 - 09:40 PM

It's my first time...please be gentle ;-)

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Anne Lister
Date: 08 Sep 09 - 02:28 PM

I'm back in! PM on its way, Liz.

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Joybell
Date: 08 Sep 09 - 06:25 PM

Me too. Me too. Thank you Liz.
Cheers, Joy

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Leadfingers
Date: 09 Sep 09 - 12:11 PM

Refresh

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 14 Sep 09 - 05:17 AM

Let's bounce this back up so folks have another chance to see it!

SECSY
LTS

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: GUEST
Date: 23 Sep 09 - 05:03 AM

refresh, refresh, refresh!

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: GUEST,Eye Lander (not logged in)
Date: 23 Sep 09 - 11:22 AM

Oh that was me! Didn't realise I wasn't logged in.

Jillie

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 23 Sep 09 - 11:56 AM

Don't forget to post your hints on the other thread.

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 23 Sep 09 - 06:49 PM

Rather a low turnout this year so far.. hopefully I'll get my last final flurry of folks who want to play, next week!

Only a week left to sign up now!

SECSY
LTS

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: ranger1
Date: 24 Sep 09 - 11:43 PM

refresh

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 25 Sep 09 - 06:16 PM

I hope we have a few more takers. Even if gifts are modest, it's still a nice thing to get a surprise from out of the blue!

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 25 Sep 09 - 09:08 PM

modest, flat gifts in envelope-type packaging so postage is less!

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: SharonA
Date: 28 Sep 09 - 07:23 AM

*refresh* and down the stretch they come...

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: GUEST,Scrooge
Date: 28 Sep 09 - 08:27 AM

Bah Humbug !!!!!

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: SharonA
Date: 28 Sep 09 - 03:55 PM

To GUEST, Scrooge: It's only once a year, sir.

:-)

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Eye Lander
Date: 29 Sep 09 - 05:00 AM

Doh! What a numpty! Spent ages wondering why I couldn't find the 'trace'. Then when I was about to type on this thread I realised I wasn't signed in!

Can I add to my list anything to restore brain cells, mine seem to have gone walk about!

Jillie

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: sian, west wales
Date: 29 Sep 09 - 06:14 AM

I'm in. You got my PM Liz?

sian

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Barb'ry
Date: 29 Sep 09 - 07:17 AM

I'm in but my post disappeared
b

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 29 Sep 09 - 11:37 PM

refresh! Let's see some more Secret Santas Sign on!

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: AllisonA(Animaterra)
Date: 30 Sep 09 - 09:50 AM

It's fun! Come on in!

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Barb'ry
Date: 08 Oct 09 - 06:32 PM

Any news on the secret santa trail? When do we find out? I'm getting all excited!

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 09 Oct 09 - 03:10 AM

I'll be picking them this weekend if all goes to plan... of course, plans at the moment are being disrupted left right and centre by various things...

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 10 Oct 09 - 12:40 AM

Wow! This weekend! On your mark, get set. . .

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: artbrooks
Date: 10 Oct 09 - 12:42 AM

Get a good night's sleep, Liz.

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: SharonA
Date: 10 Oct 09 - 08:22 PM

Waiting with bated breath...

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 11 Oct 09 - 04:43 AM

Wait a bit longer.... I got a bit behind with things...

No comments necessary thank you! I am in charge, but I am not responsible!

SECSY
LTS

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Phot
Date: 11 Oct 09 - 10:52 AM

Are we too late? We only just saw the thread!

Chris and Fiona

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 11 Oct 09 - 12:20 PM

The 'cat is supposed to be down today, so I imagine even with a delay Liz still wouldn't be able to notify us all right away.

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Eye Lander
Date: 14 Oct 09 - 11:49 AM

Hi Chris and Fiona

I am sure you can send LTS your details and it will be fine.

Jillie

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 14 Oct 09 - 11:13 PM

Keep sending details.. got poleaxed by a migraine so things are on hiatus for a while.. then there's this concert I'm doing at the weekend....

It will get done.. is it my fault you all had the Getaway earlier than usual?!

SECSY
LTS

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Eye Lander
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 05:26 AM

refresh

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 02:34 AM

It will happen soon!!!

SECSY
LTS

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: SharonA
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 04:13 PM

So will Christmas! :-)

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 08:12 PM

yes, please

sandra

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: CET
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 09:30 PM

I'm in if it's not too late.

Edmund

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Eye Lander
Date: 20 Oct 09 - 05:03 AM

I can't find the hints thread HELP.


Jillie

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Leadfingers
Date: 20 Oct 09 - 05:26 AM

Its here

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 20 Oct 09 - 08:19 AM

It is not too late... but it will be soon!

SECSY
LTS

I'm in charge but I'm not responsible.

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: artbrooks
Date: 20 Oct 09 - 09:43 AM

Ever see "Arsenic and Old Lace"? I can visualize our Liz as Teddy Roosevelt, playing "Charge" on her bugle, but really not responsible.

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Severn
Date: 20 Oct 09 - 10:04 AM

Now me, I'M responsible! In fact when I walk down the street the people all shout, "THAT'S HIM! HE'S RESPONSIBLE!"

My great sense of modesty forbids me, of course, to ever stay around long enough to bask in this sort of addulation or to take credit where credit's often overdue.....

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 20 Oct 09 - 11:59 PM

Soon?

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: SharonA
Date: 21 Oct 09 - 06:29 PM

Soon spelled backward is noos. We want the latest noos!

SharonA, noos hound

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: AllisonA(Animaterra)
Date: 24 Oct 09 - 04:28 PM

Patiently refreshing....

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Mrs Cobble
Date: 25 Oct 09 - 04:00 PM

refreshments needed!

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: SharonA
Date: 26 Oct 09 - 12:08 PM

Dear Liz,

I appreciate your having taken on the task of being the Mudcat Secret Santa SECSY once again this year. However, I'm afraid that if we go much longer without receiving PM's from you with the names of our assigned Santees, there won't be time to obtain gifts, wrap them and mail them in time for receipt before Christmas. There certainly won't be time for the Secret Santas to enjoy the process of choosing gifts for our Santees and giving the traditional clues to the Santees about who their Secret Santas might be.

This is supposed to be fun! If you're not having fun -- if the things that are going on in your life right now are turning the SECSY job into a chore you don't have the time or energy to do -- then please let us know how we can help you. Do you need volunteers? Delegate, delegate, delegate! If necessary, you could turn the entire job over to someone else. But continuing to promise "soon" (for almost a month past your cut-off date for participating) is no fun for anybody. :-(

Please tell us what the status of the Secret Santa program is, and what we can do to assist in moving it along to a happy ending!

Frankly but not unkindly,
Sharon

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 26 Oct 09 - 11:41 PM

I'm seeing more ornaments in stores all of the time! Soon, Liz, please! The suspense is building. Can we do anything to help? Send the Giant Squid over to help around the house while you spend PMs with pertinent info, perhaps?

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 28 Oct 09 - 11:35 AM

Are things okay for you Liz? You've been quiet. Let us know if we can help.

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: maeve
Date: 28 Oct 09 - 12:20 PM

Liz has computer problems. I have a message saying she's fine, thanks. I plan to relax and wait for the computer glitch to be solved.

maeve

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Eye Lander
Date: 29 Oct 09 - 03:47 PM

Patience is a virtue

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Barb'ry
Date: 31 Oct 09 - 07:31 AM

Just to let everyone in the UK know - last posting date (airmail) for USA is 10th December and for Australia/New Zealand it's the 5th December. Unfortunately, surface mail dates were early October. Not sure about Parcel Force - you have to check on their website.

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: SharonA
Date: 02 Nov 09 - 04:35 PM

Awright, it's November now. If Liz is still having computer problems, then IMO it's time for her to pass the torch and let someone else be the SECSY so that this game can finally get under way. Otherwise, the "2009 Secret Santa" exchange won't be happening in 2009!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Barb'ry
Date: 02 Nov 09 - 05:08 PM

I wonder if Maeve can update us on a likely time for it all to happen, if she is in touch with Liz. Otherwise, was that you with the volunteer hat, Sharon?!

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 02 Nov 09 - 06:24 PM

if Liz is having computer problems that probably means she can't access her PMs from the participants.

Which would mean we'd all have to send our details again to a new SECSY

sandra (whose first computer died, taking lotsa' stuff with it)

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: jacqui.c
Date: 02 Nov 09 - 06:25 PM

She's using Facebook so I sent her a message there.

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: SharonA
Date: 02 Nov 09 - 06:32 PM

"...was that you with the volunteer hat, Sharon?!"

Hell, yes, if need be. I may be an American, but I'm royally p.o.'ed by this delay.

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: artbrooks
Date: 02 Nov 09 - 06:33 PM

So did I, Jacqui. It sounds like she's pretty sick.

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: SharonA
Date: 02 Nov 09 - 06:39 PM

Sick? As in physically ill? Oh, dear.

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: SharonA
Date: 02 Nov 09 - 07:22 PM

On volunteering: Hmmm..... I wouldn't be SECSY (not that I ever was all that sexy...), but I could be SASSY -- Santa's American Substitute-Secretary for this Year. :-)

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: maeve
Date: 02 Nov 09 - 07:24 PM

I don't give a flying lizard's tail whether I'll be able to send/receive the SS gifts on time. I am worried about Liz. Emails and PMs are flying as friends check up on her.

maeve

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: SharonA
Date: 02 Nov 09 - 07:28 PM

Good on ya, then, Maeve. Please keep us posted. What ailment has Liz got???

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: maeve
Date: 02 Nov 09 - 07:32 PM

I don't know anything much yet. Let's please help each other be patient a while longer as we sort out what is going on.

Thanks everyone,

maeve

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 02 Nov 09 - 07:54 PM

thanks for the info, Maeve

sandra

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: GUEST,SharonA, logged out
Date: 02 Nov 09 - 08:03 PM

What Sandra said!

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 02 Nov 09 - 10:06 PM

I was thinking about randomly picking one of my previous Santees and sending something. But the randomness of that act, if we all did it, could really gum up the works.

If Liz is sick please keep us posted and let us know if perhaps chocolate by mouth or IV is needed. Or anything else.

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 02 Nov 09 - 10:54 PM

I am here, I have sorted some of the computer glitches and there is a list for 2009!

Trouble is, it's now 4.00am in the Yook and I can't print it out until it's a decent hour... so be patient a while longer and you will have your Santees!

I have been poorly, but am improving rapidly now (apart from the hacking cough, sore throat and swollen glands) so we're back on track.

I can only apologise and reiterate - I am in charge, but I am not responsible!

SECSY
LTS

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: artbrooks
Date: 02 Nov 09 - 11:09 PM

Liz'bet, if there is anything at all I can do to help, I'm here.

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Catherine Jayne
Date: 03 Nov 09 - 03:39 AM

Glad you are improving Liz. Hope you are feeling back to normal soon. Hugs from us lot xxxx

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 03 Nov 09 - 04:09 AM

have some chocolate - if you're well enough

if not, consider yourself hugged.

sandra

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Hawker
Date: 03 Nov 09 - 04:19 AM

Liz, So glad to hear you are improving health wise, have been quite concerned at your absence! SS can become Easter Bunny if needs be.............. so long as you are well, who cares whether its Christmas or Easter!
Sending healing thoughts and lots of love,
Lucy

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: maeve
Date: 03 Nov 09 - 06:07 AM

I'm happy and relieved that you feel better, Liz. Add me to your "Will help as needed" list, please.

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: AllisonA(Animaterra)
Date: 03 Nov 09 - 06:43 AM

Don't forget the 12 days of Christmas- it ain't over till the 5th of January!

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 03 Nov 09 - 11:26 AM

Liz, the crud is going around, and some of it is pretty darned nasty. My ex was coughing for weeks after catching what seemed like a cold. We're gargling with warm salt water a couple of times a day to try to minimize the effect of bugs we might come into contact with. And if you have something already, gargling can be soothing.

We look forward to your list with excitement, and I hope that a few of our folks launch some good chocolate your way. It can only help! :)

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Barb'ry
Date: 03 Nov 09 - 11:33 AM

Glad you're on the mend, Liz. You need an internal disinfectant... I hear alcohol does the job well!
b

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: ranger1
Date: 03 Nov 09 - 03:06 PM

I'm with Sandra, pressies in February, March, April, May, they're all good. I'm usually late getting things in the mail anyway. Just ask SRS.

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: SharonA
Date: 03 Nov 09 - 04:36 PM

Yay, Liz! Sorry to hear you've been sick. Glad to hear your health is improving!

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Hollowfox
Date: 03 Nov 09 - 07:05 PM

Liz, I'm glad to find out what happened, especially now that you're on the mend; that's the important thing. Your $@#!-reduction candle will get fired up tonight when I get home from work.

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Joybell
Date: 04 Nov 09 - 04:15 PM

My birthday's in January. Secret Birthday Faerie works OK for me.
Good to hear things are looking up, Liz.
Cheers, Joy

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: SharonA
Date: 04 Nov 09 - 07:41 PM

My birthday is in June. Hope this Secret Santa exchange happens before then! :-D

;-)

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Eye Lander
Date: 06 Nov 09 - 12:17 PM

I don't care when it happens, or if it doesn't this year. Take your time Liz, and get yourself well, I love Christmas any time of year, especially in February as it's such a crap month.

Jillie x

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: artbrooks
Date: 06 Nov 09 - 02:08 PM

Now, that's an idea. Let's play Secret Cupid!!

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Becca72
Date: 06 Nov 09 - 03:25 PM

Being another January baby I don't mind if it arrives a month late either!

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Peter Kasin
Date: 07 Nov 09 - 09:55 AM

Take the time to heal, Liz -

If we have to be Secret Easter Bunnies, so be it :-).

Chanteyranger

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 07 Nov 09 - 09:57 AM

BUT. . . I am prepared to race like the wind to choose thoughtful, yet lightweight (for faster shipping) gifts for my Santee, should I learn who he/she is soon.

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Joybell
Date: 07 Nov 09 - 04:09 PM

Me too! Me too!
Joy

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Cats
Date: 07 Nov 09 - 05:11 PM

Look after yourself LTS, I'm going to look after me after Christmas. We will have SS when he decides it is time.. it could be Secret St Tibbs Eve instead!!

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Barb'ry
Date: 08 Nov 09 - 06:02 AM

Agree with everyone - want Liz to look after herself and get better - but I would really, really like to know if we are going to do this at Christmas or leave it until later in the year. Either is fine, I'm not moaning, but something in my head needs to know if it will be at Christmas or not!
If anyone who has any direct contact with Liz could find out and put me out of my misery, that would be really kind...

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Joybell
Date: 08 Nov 09 - 04:30 PM

Yes! Yes! I can't help myself. I feel the same way.
Cheers, Joy

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: ClaireBear
Date: 08 Nov 09 - 04:47 PM

I too would really appreciate knowing...thank you for expressing that so eloquently, Barb'ry.

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 08 Nov 09 - 06:14 PM

First chance I've had to read this thread since I'd PMed my address, etc. to Liz. Had to check to make sure I'd PMed her -- was afraid somehow I'd missed either that or receiving my Santee.

I pretty much have together what I'm sending my Secret Santee -- so it's just a matter of finding out who so I can tweak bits of it or something. And I, too, am usually one of the ones who don't get the prezzie there by the day itself. Sigh.

Liz, feel better -- this is the most important thing. I certainly have no objections to stretching the season out a bit.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 09 Nov 09 - 04:33 AM

First batch on its way... apologies to all, it's been a crappy summer health-wise and autumn isn't being kind at all. Second batch will follow when I'm back from the doctors.

SECSY
LTS

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: ranger1
Date: 09 Nov 09 - 06:51 AM

Feel better soon, Liz!

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Joybell
Date: 09 Nov 09 - 05:48 PM

Hooray. Thanks, Liz. Sending good wishes but maybe not chocolate this time. It's nearly 100 degrees here. Has been for a week.

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 10 Nov 09 - 12:15 AM

phew! it's good to know the PMs are going out in 2 batches - I read the new thread & was feeling left out.

sandra (patiently waiting, unlike the bear on my chrissy coffee mug who is sitting at the end of his bed, arms crossed & tapping his foot!)

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: SharonA
Date: 10 Nov 09 - 12:36 PM

Sandra sez: "phew! it's good to know the PMs are going out in 2 batches - I read the new thread & was feeling left out."

Same here. I'm not feeling as left out as Sandra, though; she was the third person to respond to Liz's thread this year!

Sandra, you must have the patience of a saint. Hope your Santa will be especially jolly and make you especially merry!!!

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: SharonA
Date: 10 Nov 09 - 12:42 PM

P.S. -- Thanks, Liz, for sending out the first batch. I'm hopeful that I'll be in the second one, but hoping more that your doctors will have good news and/or good medicine for you. Take care!

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Mrs Cobble
Date: 10 Nov 09 - 01:19 PM

Liz;;;;; hope you are on the mend and will soon be fit for a jolly wassail!

.... and that I too will be in the 2nd batch.

Take care


Mrs C

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Dan Schatz
Date: 10 Nov 09 - 01:38 PM

I'm sorry you weren't feeling well, Liz - should have checked the thread. Here's to feeling better, and thank you for sending out the lists, whenever they come.

Dan

"She's making her list,
And checking it twice
Gonna find out who's naughty and .... oh, who are we kidding?
Secret Santa's coming to town!"

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Joybell
Date: 10 Nov 09 - 06:28 PM

Me for the second batch too.

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 11 Nov 09 - 04:20 AM

Right, it's looking more and more like the second batch didn't get through.... Santa will get one of the techy elves to kick the mainframe and see what will happen...

Watch this space...

SECSY
LTS

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: AllisonA(Animaterra)
Date: 11 Nov 09 - 06:40 AM

Oh, good- I'll wait patiently~

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Becca72
Date: 11 Nov 09 - 08:03 AM

I was wondering, too. Still no Santee for me and I was trying to be patient. :-)

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: My guru always said
Date: 11 Nov 09 - 09:19 AM

Liz, just curious - does that mean that PM's sometimes don't get through even if they show in your sent list??

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Tig
Date: 11 Nov 09 - 02:25 PM

Mine must be in that batch too 'cos it's not arrived yet.

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: ClaireBear
Date: 11 Nov 09 - 02:38 PM

And mine...

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: SharonA
Date: 11 Nov 09 - 03:07 PM

Mine has not arrived yet either.

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Nancy King
Date: 11 Nov 09 - 08:15 PM

Likewise...

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 11 Nov 09 - 09:29 PM

I have the most marvelous gifts picked out, ready to wrap (and adjust if necessary, once I actually know who my santee is) so I hope I have a place to send this soon. Lucky someone!

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Joybell
Date: 12 Nov 09 - 04:14 AM

Me! Me! Maybe it's me. SRS.

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Severn
Date: 12 Nov 09 - 08:47 AM

Well, I suppose all the folks from the second batch voicing their concern might at least narrow down the guessing a bit for those who were included in the first one.......

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: SharonA
Date: 12 Nov 09 - 11:31 AM

Well, I suppose all the folks from the second batch voicing their concern might at least narrow down the guessing a bit for those who were included in the first one.......

Very good point, Severn. I wish that Liz could/would have sent all her PM's out at one time. The "batch" system obviously has its flaws.

Liz, my offer to be SASSY (Santa's American Substitute-Secretary for this Year) is still open, if you need me to help!

Sharon

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: vectis
Date: 12 Nov 09 - 12:14 PM

I have no santee yet either.

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: CET
Date: 12 Nov 09 - 12:33 PM

Nor I.

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Barb'ry
Date: 12 Nov 09 - 01:05 PM

Aha, CET doesn't have a santee but has a santa, so that doesn't help with the guess work, Severn!

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: GUEST
Date: 12 Nov 09 - 01:22 PM

Well, DANG!

So much fer THAT theory.......

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: GUEST,Colorado Sunset
Date: 12 Nov 09 - 01:30 PM

Whups! That was me from someone elses 'puter....

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Joybell
Date: 12 Nov 09 - 05:54 PM

I was working on that theory too. Hmmm.

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Mrs Cobble
Date: 12 Nov 09 - 06:07 PM

still no santee

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Leadfingers
Date: 12 Nov 09 - 09:07 PM

Mine was the first 'Yes' post , but I have no Information at all !!

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Catherine Jayne
Date: 13 Nov 09 - 04:00 AM

Not got my santee either.....

Hope you are ok Liz xxx

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: SharonA
Date: 13 Nov 09 - 06:52 PM

With all respect, and at the risk of being criticized as tactless or unsympathetic, I must ask: Could someone please explain exactly what the hold-up is?

Since Liz sent out her "second batch" of notices via Mudcat PM's, they must be in the "Sent Messages" section of her Mudcat Personal Page. Therefore, if the problem is with her own computer, all she would have to do is:
(a) go to a library or to the home of a friend who has a computer, log in to Mudcat from there, and re-send the PM's; or
(b) if she is too sick to go out, phone a friend with a computer and ask the friend to write to Joe Offer or someone else at Mudcat to see what the-powers-that-be can do to get the PM's delivered; or
(c) give her password to the friend, so that the friend could re-send the PM's for her. Even if the friend were another Mudcatter, he/she could log in to Liz's account using Liz's screen name and password. The password could always be changed later on if Liz were concerned about privacy.

However, if the problem is with Liz's Mudcat account and if the Mudcat tech-elves can't solve it, then isn't it time to delegate the PM-ing task to someone whose account is in working order, so that everyone who has signed up to play the Secret Santa game (and to write funny GUEST messages with clues to their identities) will be able to play together???

I'm receiving PM's from people venting their frustration and asking me if there's anything we can do about this situation. I'm not sure how I came to be the champion of the downtrodden *grin* but, for their sakes and mine, I am speaking up to ask what it is that's causing this logjam (and to suggest several ways to free it). Thanks in advance for any information.

Best,
Sharon (sorely in need of holiday cheer)

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Joybell
Date: 13 Nov 09 - 10:23 PM

A bit of holiday cheer sounds good here too. Thank you, Sharon.
Cheers, Joy

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 14 Nov 09 - 03:17 PM

Still nothing. No second round after all?

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: ranger1
Date: 14 Nov 09 - 09:43 PM

People, please remember that Liz volunteers to do this and that it's supposed to be fun. It should remain fun regardless of when it happens. Personally, I like the idea of Secret Santa brightening my day in late February/early March. If you've ever lived through a New England winter, you'll know what I'm talking about.

Please be patient with Liz and try to keep any negative grumbling off the thread. It doesn't really help the situation and may cause hurt feelings.

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: maeve
Date: 14 Nov 09 - 09:48 PM

Wise words as usual, Tami.

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Joybell
Date: 14 Nov 09 - 10:50 PM

I don't see grumbles. Only questions. Also I see kindly enquiries about Liz. Of course that's as it should be and mine are there too. The reasons for the way people put their questions are as varied as their personalities and their situations. (New England Winters, Australian Bushfire-Summers.) Because we are united in a love of folksong and folklore -- I guess the tradition of exchanging gifts at Christmas has a special appeal for us. I shouldn't presume to speak for anyone but myself. I try not to do that -- but that's my read for what it's worth.
I am nice. I really am. And I'm patient.
Cheers, Joy

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 15 Nov 09 - 05:12 AM

I've also been worried about Liz's health & I've been assuming her family are too busy looking after her to post.

The second batch must have been a lot bigger than the first as 42 catters posted to the initial thread - tho 10 of you haven't managed to put your hints up yet!

sandra

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: jacqui.c
Date: 15 Nov 09 - 03:50 PM

I got my Santee!!!!!!!!

Now for the fun........

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Joybell
Date: 15 Nov 09 - 04:09 PM

Me too -- Thank you Liz.
Cheers, Joy

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 15 Nov 09 - 04:34 PM

Right, thank you all for being so patient, the first couple of times I sent the second batch, they got lost in the ether and I know not where they went... sorry.

However, it looks like this third time is the charm. If anyone sent me a PM asking for a Santa but didn't get one, please let me know asap.


So now it's up to you to post your hints, wind up your previous Santa/Santees, tease your new victims.. sorry, recipients and have fun. Play nicely children or Santa will send you coal and an old sock!


Once again, so sorry for the time it's taken to get these out to you, computer problems and a few very poorly days took their toll...

Thank you.

SECSY
LTS

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: ClaireBear
Date: 15 Nov 09 - 05:52 PM

Teehee! I know SSomething SSomeone doeSSn't know!

(Thank you, Liz!)

SSomeone's SSecret SSanta

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: maeve
Date: 15 Nov 09 - 07:00 PM

Well done, Liz. Thanks for the Santee and for being so persistant in spite of health and 'puter trials.

maeve

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: artbrooks
Date: 15 Nov 09 - 07:04 PM

Santa? You out there, Santa?

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Nancy King
Date: 15 Nov 09 - 07:31 PM

Yaayy! I know who my Santee is! Woo hoo!

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Hawker
Date: 15 Nov 09 - 07:56 PM

OOOH! Ive just got a red suit and a white beard.........Look out santee Im making a list and checking it twice gotta find out if you're naughty or nice.......Ho Ho Ho

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: SharonA
Date: 17 Nov 09 - 08:23 PM

Thank you so much, Liz! Glad to hear that your computer seems to be behaving at last, and I hope that your physical health is doing the same! I certainly can't say I was among your "patient" Secret Santas, but I was concerned! Sorry if I seemed impertinent.

Okay, then -- Santee name received, and appropriate teasings in the planning stages. Oh, what fun it is... !!

Thanks again,
Sharon

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: Mrs Cobble
Date: 19 Nov 09 - 07:09 PM

Age.                   Over the hill!
Gender.             Female.
Favorite color.   Green
Books.                Folklore, anything from SS's locality would be nice.
Music.                Jazz and Folk.
Interests.          Knitting, Cross stitch, crystals
T Shirt size.      XXXL
Prefer silver tones.

Mrs C

Subject: RE: BS: 2009 Secret Santa Time!
From: GUEST,Quokka
Date: 25 Nov 09 - 11:16 PM

Age:The answer to the ultimate question...Life the universe and everything...ask a Douglas Adams fan if you don't know this!

Gender: Of the feminine persuasion

Favourite colour: purple (but no people eaters please)

Books:insatiable appetite for reading material but have a houseful - something local to Santa's neck of the woods

Music: very eclectic taste, love to hear new stuff, especially if Secret Santa had a hand in it...

Is that enough hints???

Looking forward to whatever my S.Santa wants to send...
xxooxx