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

Subject: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: vectis
Date: 17 Sep 19 - 10:11 PM

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?

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 17 Sep 19 - 10:55 PM

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.

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 18 Sep 19 - 06:55 PM

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

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: RTim
Date: 18 Sep 19 - 08:57 PM

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

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Sarah the flute
Date: 20 Sep 19 - 04:41 PM

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

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Severn
Date: 21 Sep 19 - 07:05 PM

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,

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Sarah the flute
Date: 23 Sep 19 - 04:40 PM

Good for you Severn - you are an ace Santa!

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: hsempl
Date: 23 Sep 19 - 11:07 PM

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.

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 24 Sep 19 - 11:14 AM

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.

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: vectis
Date: 24 Sep 19 - 08:39 PM

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.

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: vectis
Date: 24 Sep 19 - 08:40 PM

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

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Severn
Date: 25 Sep 19 - 08:35 AM

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.

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Sarah the flute
Date: 26 Sep 19 - 05:59 PM

Bump up to the top to get some more takers

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: vectis
Date: 29 Sep 19 - 06:14 PM

Refresh

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 29 Sep 19 - 08:27 PM

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

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: vectis
Date: 05 Oct 19 - 09:01 PM

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

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Rapparee
Date: 05 Oct 19 - 09:20 PM

I'm in.

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Rapparee
Date: 05 Oct 19 - 09:26 PM

I suggest waiting until Getaway is well over.

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 05 Oct 19 - 10:46 PM

Lots of people are away from regular computing right now.

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: vectis
Date: 06 Oct 19 - 03:39 PM

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

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Firecat
Date: 10 Oct 19 - 12:16 PM

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

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 10 Oct 19 - 12:47 PM

Good for you!

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: vectis
Date: 13 Oct 19 - 05:04 PM

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Severn
Date: 15 Oct 19 - 09:21 PM

Do we have the preferences and teasing threads up yet?

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 15 Oct 19 - 11:31 PM

Not yet. Still trying to round up participants.

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Severn
Date: 17 Oct 19 - 07:54 PM

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

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Rapparee
Date: 17 Oct 19 - 08:50 PM

Sev, nobody likes presents anymore.

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 19 Oct 19 - 10:39 AM

Back to the top.

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Rapparee
Date: 21 Oct 19 - 08:22 PM

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

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 24 Oct 19 - 12:46 PM

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

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Sarah the flute
Date: 31 Oct 19 - 04:17 PM

Happening?????

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Severn
Date: 31 Oct 19 - 11:17 PM

Will a present be passed in the future?

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Severn
Date: 01 Nov 19 - 11:25 AM

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.

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: vectis
Date: 01 Nov 19 - 11:27 PM

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?

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 02 Nov 19 - 12:03 AM

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

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Severn
Date: 02 Nov 19 - 10:11 PM

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..........

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Sarah the flute
Date: 03 Nov 19 - 01:21 PM

Yes I'm good to go!

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: vectis
Date: 05 Nov 19 - 09:14 PM

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.

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: vectis
Date: 05 Nov 19 - 09:16 PM

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.

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 05 Nov 19 - 10:35 PM

Vectis,

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

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Severn
Date: 06 Nov 19 - 12:12 PM

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

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Severn
Date: 06 Nov 19 - 12:16 PM

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

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: vectis
Date: 06 Nov 19 - 04:26 PM

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.

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 06 Nov 19 - 05:06 PM

What is allowed?

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Rapparee
Date: 06 Nov 19 - 05:35 PM

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.

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Firecat
Date: 07 Nov 19 - 01:23 PM

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.

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Sarah the flute
Date: 07 Nov 19 - 06:09 PM

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

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Hollowfox
Date: 08 Nov 19 - 03:21 PM

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

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: vectis
Date: 09 Nov 19 - 09:38 PM

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

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Severn
Date: 10 Nov 19 - 03:46 PM

Well, "Squeak back atcha!

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Rapparee
Date: 10 Nov 19 - 09:06 PM

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

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 11 Nov 19 - 01:02 AM

They make an ointment for that.

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Hollowfox
Date: 11 Nov 19 - 05:14 PM

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.

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: vectis
Date: 12 Nov 19 - 02:33 AM

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

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Hollowfox
Date: 12 Nov 19 - 01:55 PM

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.

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

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?

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 14 Nov 19 - 01:48 PM

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.

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

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....

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

Wree fretch for the clueless

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

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

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: GUEST
Date: 27 Nov 19 - 03:00 PM

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!

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

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.....

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: vectis
Date: 01 Dec 19 - 05:56 PM

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

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

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Sarah the flute
Date: 02 Dec 19 - 11:01 AM

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

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

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.

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Severn
Date: 02 Dec 19 - 02:35 PM

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

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

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

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

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.....

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: vectis
Date: 08 Dec 19 - 11:19 PM

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

...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!

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Severn
Date: 12 Dec 19 - 11:01 AM

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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.

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Sarah the flute
Date: 15 Dec 19 - 07:54 AM

....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.

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

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.

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: vectis
Date: 19 Dec 19 - 06:46 PM

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: GUEST,Tröll Undirbrúnni
Date: 19 Dec 19 - 08:19 PM

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.

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Sarah the flute
Date: 19 Dec 19 - 08:37 PM

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

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

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.

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Rapparee
Date: 22 Dec 19 - 07:56 AM

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.

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Severn
Date: 22 Dec 19 - 12:30 PM

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......

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

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.

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

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.

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 27 Dec 19 - 12:06 PM

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.

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

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.

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Rapparee
Date: 27 Dec 19 - 09:07 PM

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).

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 28 Dec 19 - 01:12 AM

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!

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

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.

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Sarah the flute
Date: 31 Dec 19 - 06:36 AM

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!

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

Hoping something arrived for you before christmas?

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Firecat
Date: 31 Dec 19 - 08:08 AM

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!

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 01 Jan 20 - 02:26 PM

[sigh]

Still waiting for Santa. . .

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Rapparee
Date: 01 Jan 20 - 06:17 PM

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.

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Rapparee
Date: 07 Jan 20 - 09:54 AM

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

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 07 Jan 20 - 10:19 AM

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?

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Sarah the flute
Date: 07 Jan 20 - 06:45 PM

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

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 10 Jan 20 - 08:49 PM

Still nothing, Santa. . .

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 14 Jan 20 - 05:48 PM

Still waiting for those big bridges . . .

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Severn
Date: 15 Jan 20 - 10:13 AM

I am still waiting on my present

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

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

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 15 Jan 20 - 08:30 PM

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

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: vectis
Date: 27 Jan 20 - 08:38 PM

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 27 Jan 20 - 10:46 PM

I never received a gift, Santa.

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: keberoxu
Date: 28 Jan 20 - 02:15 PM

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!

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: vectis
Date: 28 Jan 20 - 09:09 PM

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.

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 28 Jan 20 - 09:26 PM

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.

Subject: RE: ***-_-*** Secret Santa 2019 ***-_-***
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 14 Feb 20 - 12:16 PM

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. . .