BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: JennyO
Date: 09 Feb 06 - 04:32 AM

Oh well, it was worth a try - at least you can use it for something, Dave. I guess it's an acquired taste :-)

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Dave Earl
Date: 09 Feb 06 - 02:07 AM

I actually issued my thanks to my SS in another thread.

But it did arrive safely and I have eated most of the eatable things therein.

Sorry JennyO and our other Aust. friends but I did try the Vegemite and I'm afraid I will be using it for cooking rather than on toast or bickies.

Dave Earl

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: GUEST,Foolestroupes Santa
Date: 08 Feb 06 - 07:16 AM

Are we allowed to reveal ourselves yet?
I'm sure I sent Tablet, not shortbread, and from Aberdeen not Dundee! Maybe I'm wrong though.

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: The Fooles Troupe
Date: 07 Feb 06 - 09:57 PM

Just got back today, and waiting for me was my pressies - from Dundee!

Real single malt marmalade and tea and coffe and shortbread...

yum!

Thanks - but no name.... :-)

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: MBSLynne
Date: 03 Feb 06 - 09:35 AM

Well RAT-W and I still haven't had our pressies. It must be a postal hold up since both our Santa's have posted the things. I hope they do arrive, not just cos it's nice to get pressies, but also because our Santas must have outlaid time and money on them and it would be a shame if they were lost. Oh well......

Love Lynne

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: vectis
Date: 03 Feb 06 - 09:08 AM

I'm glad that Breton Cap's pressie is en route at last. I've still to hear from my santa much less get a pressie.
Even if I don't get anything I'll still join in next year because I enjoy trying to find things my santees will like. Up till now my santas have been very good.

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Crane Driver
Date: 01 Feb 06 - 06:01 PM

Well, slap me with a wet haddock! Today there turned up in the Royal Welsh Mail one tube containing a very interesting and colourful map of shipwreck sites off the mouth of the Columbia River, US of A. I have no idea who sent it, the only return address is a bookshop in St Helens, Oregon - and the signature on the customs declaration is a masterpiece of illegibility, but whoever you are, thank you very much indeed. I don't even know if you are my original designated Santa or a late "stand-in" (the parcel was posted 23 January), but either way, the gesture is much appreciated.

Thanks a load.

Andrew

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: GUEST,Breton Cap's very belated Santa
Date: 31 Jan 06 - 09:52 AM

A bunch of rather tiring and time consuming family issues, plus a shortage of money have prevented me from getting my act together enough to actually send your pressie until recently, but it's winging it's way towards you from a great distance even as we speak. I hope you get it soon, and I hope you like it (and I hope that customs don't rip it apart looking for WMD's ;-))

Your contrite SS

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: mooman
Date: 30 Jan 06 - 10:51 AM

Dear Blackcatter,

I guess it was very remiss of me not to follow up regarding your point B) of 18 January (I hadn't checked this thread till today) and I apologise profusely for that after initially acknowledging receipt of your present before Christmas. I should have posted again after unwrapping it to thank you.

Indeed, I liked the book very much. I very much like things of historical interest like that and the fact that it was local to you and that you contributed to it made it special for me.

I hope you'll forgive me this oversight... I didn't mean to be lacking in manners.

All very best regards,

Peace

moo

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Clinton Hammond
Date: 29 Jan 06 - 10:57 PM

Sounds to me like the Secret Santa won't miss you...

It's not like you're the only one who's never heard from anyone... Like it matters?

It's just an internet gift exchange... try not to lose any sleep over it...

If ya had a real life, Mudcat wouldn't seem like such a big deal to you

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: GUEST,Blackcatter
Date: 29 Jan 06 - 10:12 PM

That was me posting.

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: GUEST,If you
Date: 29 Jan 06 - 10:11 PM

Main complaint: My secret Santa never fessed up. My Santee never reported that they liked or didn't like what I sent.

So screw it.

Oh and Clinton - fuck you and all the small minded people who do everything they can to fuck with people here at Mudcat.

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Clinton Hammond
Date: 29 Jan 06 - 12:55 PM

What's yer beef now Blackcatter??

The BS section is a necessary evil of the Secret Santa process... So as not to clutter up the MUSIC section

(If this message boards wasn't so FKn stone age, we could have a selection of forums for different broad topics, and the Secret Santa could have it's own section... but....)

So what's the complaint??

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Blackcatter
Date: 29 Jan 06 - 12:34 AM

Well, it looks like this might as well be the last year I tke part in the Secret Santa thing.

Guess I've been unofficially "drummed" out of the Mudcat regulars because I refuse to read and post in the B.S. section.

I regularly read through the non-BS, but rarely make a contribution (which has been my M.O. since I got here in 1999).

I'm not looking for anything, get making a statement "to be read into the record." Good by all.

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Blackcatter
Date: 25 Jan 06 - 01:27 AM

I guess never ....................................................................................................................................................................................

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 19 Jan 06 - 06:17 AM

Oh yes 200 BTW
G ☺

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 19 Jan 06 - 04:22 AM

In keeping with this general rejoicing at the arrival of parcels thought gone astray, I will add my own 10c worth. The parcel of excess baggage that I posted to myself from Beverly Mass on 12th November, finally arrived chez nous on Tuesday. There were even a couple of things in there I'd forgotten, and the Christmas tree baubles I bought at the Corning Museum of Glass have been hung on the deer antlers at the top of the stairs as they are too nice to put away yet.
God bless the USPS; eventually.
Giok

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: MBSLynne
Date: 19 Jan 06 - 02:44 AM

Thanks Art :-)

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: artbrooks
Date: 18 Jan 06 - 07:13 PM

Lynne, luv...your Santees think that would be a shame.

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Blackcatter
Date: 18 Jan 06 - 05:49 PM

So when do I find out

A) how is my secret Santa?

B) did my santee like the gift?

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From:
Date: 18 Jan 06 - 04:02 AM

I am so glad it finally arrive Frank! I was just thinking about sending something else out to you to make up for it not arriving!!

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: MBSLynne
Date: 18 Jan 06 - 03:20 AM

Hmmm....still nothing for either me or RAT-W.

Don't think I'll bother with this next year.

Love Lynne

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: GUEST,Tinkers almost Secret Santa
Date: 18 Jan 06 - 02:57 AM

You are nearly right!

I do live in Brighton but I'm not actually married to my Partner.

Do you want another clue?

"Navy blue French headgear"

That gives the game away to a number of Catters in my corner of the UK.

Hope you found the gift interesting.

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Pseudolus
Date: 17 Jan 06 - 10:14 PM

I can't believe it! Good things really do come to those who wait!! My package arrived today with a reflexology kit complete with massage rollers. I also got a set of Christmas salt and pepper shakers, a little red bean bag toy and enough chocolate to last me the rest of the winter! OK, maybe not the whole winter but there's a lot!! All of this from my gorgeous secret santa, Catsphiddle!!!!!

I'm so glad it came, mostly because I knew how bad you felt since it was sent so long ago. The post mark was from back in November! but it finally got here! thank you for giving me a second Christmas!

Frank

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Elmer Fudd
Date: 13 Jan 06 - 01:12 AM

I just got home from the wars, pulled up the drawbridge, and lo: a package from afar, containing a delightful and intriguing CD, some organic chocolate (how did you know??!!!!) and news of a VERY generous contribution to the earthquake victims in Kashmir. My cup runneth over.

O best of all Secret Santas, I humbly thank you. Now that I know who you are, if you ever care to reveal what you call yourself in mudcatville, I will be much obliged.

gracias, merci, danke, dhanyavad, and great, glorious gratitude,

Elmer

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: sian, west wales
Date: 12 Jan 06 - 04:28 AM

Well, you were right about the guessing, Hollowfox! And ... 10 cuts!? They are utterly remarkable!

I've read through ALL the recipe books - great! But who ever thought of Sausage Cake? I might give that one a miss. And I haven't yet got my head into an appropriate gear for that Brain Teaser book - but I'm getting there!

You are such a GOOD Santa!

siân

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Hollowfox
Date: 11 Jan 06 - 05:59 PM

(whew) I was beginning to get worried that the darn package was never going to get there. As for the wooden pliers, they're made with ten cuts, and no wasted wood. they're a signature item from the Warther Museum in Dover, Ohio. Mr. Warther was a master carver, and just the sort of person who'd love the 'Cat, if he were still alive. spaw turned me on to the place. You mentioned on the wishing thread that you loved riddles, so riddles you got.
And I told you that you'd never guess who your SS was this year. *g*

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: sian, west wales
Date: 11 Jan 06 - 03:35 PM

Bog Frogs? Ah - a new Taste Treat Sensation. I reckon I could figure out how to make 'em. I've got a recipe for turtles somewhere and they sound like the same general concept ...

Bookmark this thread for next Christmas baking season!

siân

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: GUEST,Crystal's Secret Santa type person
Date: 11 Jan 06 - 10:14 AM

I bought those Bog frogs ( chocolate covered cashews,carmel and cranberries) while I was back visiting my mother in the Massachusetts where I grew up. I'm pretty sure they are a local specialty. A google search brought up a couple of places Cranberry Bog Frogs can be ordered from, but I couldn't find a UK distributor...

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: RangerSteve
Date: 11 Jan 06 - 09:52 AM

Haven't got my present yet.

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: sian, west wales
Date: 11 Jan 06 - 07:08 AM

So ... here I am in a panic trying to get out the door for a two-day round of meetings in N. Wales two days ago when the postie shows up at the door with a Seriously Hefty Box to be signed for.

Says I to him, says I: Oh, I know what this is! Sheesh! Do all Americans send their own weight in parcels?

Ha! Not 'all Americans', but one in particular!

Hollowfox - I feel like I should apologize that you got me two years running but ... I ain't gonna. 'Cause you send such GREAT PARCELS!

In fact - I might even lay claim to this woman. Next year - she's MINE. Hands off, all the rest of yez.

I told myself I'd open it when I got back from the grand tour but THAT didn't happen. I ripped into it - what joy!

Reese's Peanut Butter Cups which will be shared with some ex-pat American neighbours.

Lotsa books: I now have recipes for possum and groundhog and squirrel and ilk if anyone needs 'em. Also a Parish Cookbook from a parish which must have had a seriously funny Deacon in 1976; he submitted a recipe for Holy Water which turned out to be the driest of martinis!

And how did you know that I LOVE riddles? I feel the need to start a thread (or resurrect one) in the very near future ...

And that little packet that wasn't a chanter reed after all. It's a little wooden model of a pair of pliers that I suspect has been carved out of a single piece of wood, yet opens and closes. The mind boggles.

And CDs - just the thing for a very long two-day stint in the car! You know I love storytelling! And to finally have a Rick Fielding CD - sigh. He's been on my intenting-to-buy list for years. Balm for the Soul (with just a slight trembling of the bottom lip and tear int he eye in passing).

You are SUCH A GOOD SANTA, woman! Thank you a zillionty times! And have an excellent 2006!

siân

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Crystal
Date: 11 Jan 06 - 06:20 AM

Nope, although I've been racking my brains!
BTW those cranberry bog frogs were DELICIOUS!!!! I'm now frantically trying to find out where I can get some more (we have a little shop which sells sweets and stuff from America etc here!).

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: GUEST,Crystal's Less Secret Santa
Date: 10 Jan 06 - 09:56 AM

Did you get enought clues to figure out who I am??? I'm really relieved that it made it all in one piece and found it's way to you. Next year I'll get to the post office earlier I promise...

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 09 Jan 06 - 11:44 AM

Limpit's secret Santee parcel was also returned to her rather worse for wear, so there are at least two people who are still awaiting patiently..... We will try again and hopefully this time it will actually get further than Mount Pleasant Sorting office (some 8 miles from the house!).

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 09 Jan 06 - 11:07 AM

Sounds like your package came via the postal threshing machine, Rapaire!

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Rapparee
Date: 09 Jan 06 - 08:58 AM

Santa, thank you. I mentioned that I received the books and now I've read the one on Lewes and fire walking (yeah, I know, but as a friend says, "Someone has to mislead the youth").

The package did arrive damaged, a large chunch was bitten(?) out of a corner and retaped, so if there was more than the books in it it's gone now.

I'm enjoying the books. Thank you!

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Crystal
Date: 09 Jan 06 - 07:39 AM

THANK YOU SANTA!!! I got back to Aberdeen last night to find my pressie waiting for me!
I havn't started the sweeties yet, but the PJ's are great and my rings are already in the trinket box!
I've read half of the book too!

Liz I also returned to find the pressie for my Santee has been returned to me. I'm re-sending it!

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: My guru always said
Date: 08 Jan 06 - 03:14 PM

SINSULL: if you look a few posts previous to your last one, you'll see that Cllr received his pressies via Cats in Cornwall on Christmas Day.

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: SINSULL
Date: 07 Jan 06 - 08:37 PM

CLLR - please tell me you got yours in time for Christmas or there is a certain bearded man with a new bride who will be singing soprano for a while...

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Blackcatter
Date: 07 Jan 06 - 06:43 PM

As far as I know, Candlemas is tied to the ancient celebration of Imbolc, which is a "cross-Quarter" celebration (between a Solstice and an Equinox) in the British Isles. It's date floats around in the beginning of February, but is most often connected to Feb. 2nd. In the U.S., Ground Hog Day is connected with it. Candlemas was the Catholic "interpretation" of Imbolc and was said to be 40 days after the birth of Jesus. That being the traditional time when a woman would be pure enough to re-enter the Jewish temple. (Mary being the woman in question - hence the alternate name of Candlemas - the Repurification of Mary) By the way, if Jesus had been a girl (imagine that!) Mary would have had to wait 80 days to reenter the temple.

That being said, i don't know if my Santee has opened his present yet...

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Cats
Date: 07 Jan 06 - 01:01 PM

Cllr still hasn't quite worked out how his secret santa pressies ended up under my Christmas tree in Cornwall on Christmas morning!

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 07 Jan 06 - 10:03 AM

MuddleC, you can put your chrissy decorations up any time you want - mine will be staying up to at least July (well, that's how long they stayed up last year).

Some of my chrissy decorations at home & work are permanent features. I have various bears on my bear collection that are supposedly christmas decorations, and at work I have Flat Santa (a formerly inflatable Santa rescued from the builder's skip during the office renovations of 1993) and an old plastic Santa (1960's???) scrounged from unused office decorations a few years ago, and some of my office bears are christmas decorations, too.

Every Day is Christmas Day!!

sandra

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: MuddleC
Date: 07 Jan 06 - 07:03 AM

Can I put my christmas decorations up yet? -or have I left it too late again

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: SharonA
Date: 06 Jan 06 - 10:55 PM

Many thanks -- and profuse apologies for the tardiness in expressing my thanks -- to my Secret Santa(s), who is/are Firecat, Tig and The Badger! I confess, I couldn't quite wait for Christmas Eve to open my package; as the song says, I needed a little Christmas a little early.

I asked for local lore and I got lots! A picture book of images from Doncaster, plus a larger book from the "Images of England" series highlighting Askern, Campsall and Norton (from the "Lol" Freeman Collection -- but not "LOL" -- LOL!). This will be quite an education for me, as I am not familiar with any of those places. [By the way, on this side of the pond they publish an "Images of America" series with the same graphic design on the cover! (...including a book on my hometown!)]

In addition to these nice pressies, I also received a cute Christmas card, a postcard with cats (love those kitties!) AND my very own personalized Mudcat badge (a.k.a. button) with the Mudcat Cafe logo!!! If I ever show up for a Getaway or one of Susan'w (WYSIWYG's) sings, I'll have my I.D. ready to wear! None of those "Hello, my name is..." stickers for moi!!

It was great fun receiving a package from overseas and guessing who sent it. Thanks again, Firecat et al, for the goodies and the fun! Also thanks to Liz the Squeak for organizing this year's SS program, to SINSULL for the PM's reminding me to assure my Santee that I existed, and to Mudcat and Max for making all this possible!

Happy New Year to all!
Sharon

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Joybell
Date: 06 Jan 06 - 05:14 PM

OOOOOH! An outing! I love those. We went on outings when I was a kid. Cheers, Joy

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 06 Jan 06 - 03:58 PM

Candlemass is Feb 2nd, when Christmas officially ends.

Merry Old Christmas chaps!

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: jacqui.c
Date: 06 Jan 06 - 02:58 PM

Or, alternatively - February 2nd - according to Yahoo search

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: jacqui.c
Date: 06 Jan 06 - 02:55 PM

Twelfth Night - January 6th.

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: MuddleC
Date: 06 Jan 06 - 02:38 PM

when's candlemass?

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Tinker
Date: 06 Jan 06 - 12:11 PM

I've had time now to wander through the book... and my questions to UK catter's don't appear to be espectially helpful... but I do know my SS is married and from Brighton but there still seems to be a bit of choice involved.... I may be waiting for Liz's revelation on Candlemass....

tinker

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 06 Jan 06 - 04:23 AM

All Santas will be 'outed' formally at Candlemass, so you'll have to keep guessing til then.

SECSY LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Leadfingers
Date: 05 Jan 06 - 11:05 AM

Well at least my Prezzie arrived before Twelfth Night , if not before Chrustmas Day ! THANK YOU Santa , whoever The Hell you are ! The only clue I have (If it IS a clue) is the New Hampshire postmark . A great selecton of goodies , including Jeff Warner !!!

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: jacqui.c
Date: 04 Jan 06 - 10:34 AM

Thanks Edain. I know what you mean - there are certain things that it is difficult to get over here.

Luckily I have a very accommodating Daughter in Newark, Notts. who can keep me supplied with the necessities in between my visits back to the UK.

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: GUEST,Edain - Jacqui.c's SS
Date: 04 Jan 06 - 04:02 AM

Err.. that would be me, probably would have helped to stick my Mudcat name on there somewhere wouldn't it. Opps. Oh well, I'm glad you liked it, I spent a year in the states without Kendal Mint Cake and rememebred how hard a time it had been (although this was aleviated partially by Sorcha who managed to make some really nice minty things), so figured I'd include some.

Edain

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Joybell
Date: 04 Jan 06 - 12:33 AM

So glad you liked him Pat. That unicorn called me into the gift shop. I was thinking purple and he flashed his purple lights at me and said, "Me! Me! I'm purple." Cheers, and Love SantaJoy

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 03 Jan 06 - 08:27 PM

Crane Driver,

Ha! What book do you think she has her nose buried in? It's perfect!

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Crane Driver
Date: 03 Jan 06 - 07:10 PM

Spot on, Stilly - hope the package suited?

Andrew

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: SussexCarole
Date: 03 Jan 06 - 07:08 PM

Glad the first package has arrived Sins....wow it took its time. Ho ho ho..yet more to come. On the first month of Christmas (2006)...my santa sent to me.......

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: SINSULL
Date: 03 Jan 06 - 05:42 PM

My Secret Santa has redeemed herself! In addition to the hideous lamp, a second package arrived containing a stunning Celtic T-Shirt and an equally stunning pair of fuschia pink "I Need Choclate" socks. There is also the promise of a CD to come. Thank you Carol and Elf Andy!
Love,
SINS

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 03 Jan 06 - 12:11 PM

Another member of my household has had her nose buried in a book lately, and hasn't done any poking around, but I am curious (she is 17--right now she's distracted. . .) so I played the postal-code-in-Yahoo game and have deduced that Moonglow's Secret Santa must have been Crane Driver.

Yes? No?

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Clinton Hammond
Date: 03 Jan 06 - 11:53 AM

Thanks Santa!!

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Alba
Date: 03 Jan 06 - 11:46 AM

Santa came to my House this morning via the USPS...**Huge Grin**

Thank you so much Santa Den. Thank you.
I know that a certain Mudcat Faerygodmother helped you out with my likes due to Life getting in the way of my posting them, Thank you MFG:>. I have to say I LOVE my Gifts.
My Faery is beautiful and has been placed so she can be seen as soon as walk into the Room I choose for her to live in. (yip I decided that it is a she:>)
My stunning Keltic Earrings are dangling from my Ears as I type. My favorite color of stone in them too.

Yes, we were each others Santas this Year (Thank you LtS) and I am tickled to bits that you were mine.
Thanks again oh wonderful Secret Santa Den.
Your package arrived on a Day that needed a Lift and because of the timing, my Day indeed has been lifted...yipeee
I am relieved you liked your parcel too...I did search for Asterix the Gaul but seems they don't know him at all here in Northern Maine!
My Warmest Wishes to You and Yours for a very Happy, Healthy and Peaceful 2006.
A very grateful,
Jude

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Partridge
Date: 03 Jan 06 - 03:56 AM

Thanks you Santa Joy,

I've always wanted a unicorn!

Its beautiful and perfect, thanks you thank you.

love

Pat xxxx

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Stephen L. Rich
Date: 03 Jan 06 - 01:00 AM

Thank you, Bee-dubya-ell!!
       Large Coffee Mugs!! Just waht I needed!


Stephen Lee

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Blackcatter
Date: 03 Jan 06 - 12:21 AM

Thank you Secret Santa!

I opened up the box as usual on Yule and was very happy with the outcome. Sorry it's taken so long to get back to say thank you (and unfortunately, I still don't know your real identity).

What I received was a black t-shirt with an image of the grim reaper and the phrase "Time's Up," Several "found" rocks including a "holey stone," a small rock that had 2 natural holes worn into it - these are supposed to be powerful and are connected with the Goddess, some "rock" candy and assorted other things. I am very happy with the selection. I've put a cord through one of the holes of the holey stone and plan to wear it pretty regularly.

Thanks again!

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Roger the Skiffler
Date: 02 Jan 06 - 09:27 AM

NOT a Secret Santa, but not worth starting a new thread. Herself (fool to herself) gave me musical spoons in my stocking, maybe to stop me using the washboard!
Friends have given me a plastic inflatable guitar, probably to stop me from ever buying one that makes a noise. I will have to try air guitar to some of my new CDs, George Thorogood & The Destroyers seems most appropriate.

RtS

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Rapparee
Date: 30 Dec 05 - 10:56 PM

Thanks to MY generous and wonderful Santa I now have two books and YOU don't! Ha ha ha!

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: bfdk
Date: 30 Dec 05 - 06:21 PM

THANK YOU Santa Nathalie, Musique 174, for the assortment of pressies received in the mail today all the way from sunny California!

Two nice CDs with sea shanties, a pretty, Christmassy tin filled with delicious chocolates, a fiddle-playing Santa figurine for which I'm pretty sure Obelix posed for the bottom half - striped trousers and all ;-), a hand-knitted wash cloth (never had a flower-shaped one before ;-) and a Murphy's Law calendar containing wisdom such as:

"In case of doubt, make it sound convincing"

"Virginity can be cured"

"When all else fails, read the instructions" and

"Any time you put something in a "safe place", it will never be seen again"

I can vouch for the latter being eternally true - at least around here, it is ;-))

A very Happy New Year to you, too, Nathalie, and once again thank you for the pressies.

Best wishes,

Bente

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: MuddleC
Date: 30 Dec 05 - 08:10 AM

Ahh, yet another parcel arrives......

some strange plastic mat with a picture of Martin Carthy on, finally discovered it was a special abrasive mat to sharpen my wind-up gramophone needles on, thank you , and then a do-it-yourself pyromaniac kit..... and some scented safety firework sparklers, or are you supposed to put them in a cigarette to smoke?-I will go down the police station and ask...and lastly, the miniflying saucers...I knew they would finally come for me!...watching Xfiles finally worked.!..... ahh, the voices are telling me I have to go now........

There once was a Santa from Batley
Who loved his infusion of Tetley
during a particular sup
they swallowed the cup
to become unfortunatly lately

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 30 Dec 05 - 02:02 AM

I did write the first one (cats rhyming with cats!) but it was so hard to write that I went looking for help & have spent many happy minutes creating masterpieces.

I'm not a wordsmith, gimme wool, or paper, or beads, or mohair or something similar & I'm happy. But don't ask me to write something!

sandra

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: CapriUni
Date: 30 Dec 05 - 12:21 AM

Well, I guessed correctly that you were in Australia, but I somehow thought that you were a man rather than a woman. There was just "something" about your posts that had a male aura about it.

Now, I'll just blame my imperceptiveness on that poetry generator, since those poems were not really you doing the talking... ;-)

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: jacqui.c
Date: 29 Dec 05 - 09:43 PM

I got my present, which was here when I got back from the UK yesterday.

I'm no wiser as to my Santa's Mudcat name but must thank Nicky Boak for the puzzle, which will drive all of us mad, the book of sci-fi stories which I am looking forward to reading and the Kendal Mint Cake, one of my favourite sweets for many years. I gave a very small piece to Kendall who wasn't keen (more for me) and to SINSULL, who loved it and will have to get more supplies sent out by my daughter at some time. I'd forgotten how minty that stuff tasted. Sublime!

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 29 Dec 05 - 06:22 PM

glad ya liked the pressies,

City of Sydney library moved & had a sale of 40,000 books & magazines & did the crowds turn up. Dealers were taking away giant boxes on trollies. Booklovers were leaving with bags full, some with arms full & I left with 9 books. My motto is "Do I really need it, & where will I put it?" so only 3 were for me. The wildflowers were painted by Denis Kevan's singing partner.

yes, I did make the necklace, it started out as a keyring made by someone with different colour tastes to me. The keyring bit was shiny 'gold', so I removed it & added the cord & suddenly it's an elegant piece of earthtoned jewellery.

The magnets include my favourite cartoon - Ken Maynard's Ettamogah Pub
Book of his cartoons I don't own
info about Ken Maynard

I had the greatest time with this Bad Poetry generator & here's another pome for you -

I thougth I invented the word 'fiblet'
birds evaporate into a sky greenly tainted
Or am I violet?
transported to the dreams of the unaffected,

In my search for bad poetry I found this which I'll be taking to the singing session tonight & will read as my contribution!

Theophilus Marzials is far worser than The Great McGonagall

sandra

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: CapriUni
Date: 29 Dec 05 - 04:35 PM

Thank you, (not) So Secret Santa, Sandra in Sydney!

Two books of poetry by Australia's Poet Lorikeet (recycled from the library, yay! -- some say "regifting" is in bad taste, but I like having a connection to people who've come before me),

A humor book "My Television is a Vampire" (at least, I hope that's humor).

Postcards of Australian birds (my walls will have more color on them, soon)

Australian silly refrigerator magnets (always useful, as my doors and window frames are all hollow steel. I can use them to hang notes all over the house, not just on the refrigerator).

A CD of Australian Music Hall stars (this will be fun to listen to)

A necklace made from an Australian coin (did you make it your own self, Sandra? I love the way its adjustable in length), and finally,

A note with a wonderful print of Australian wildflowers on it.

Thank you so much for the parcel of midsummer sunshine! I shall use it wisely to help keep me warm through the winter I'm in...

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: CallyH
Date: 29 Dec 05 - 05:11 AM

Mine arrived today, it was like Christmas day all over again!!!

Got a fantastic tape by my very talented ss, country music 30s style. Listened to it while eating breakfast.

Also three books of tunes and a book of historic postcards of the River Delaware. This will keep me busy for a while!

Great presents,

Thankyou Steve,

Rachel

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Micca
Date: 29 Dec 05 - 03:46 AM

DOH!!!! and a Great Big Thank you to You Chanteyranger, I should have been able to work it out as we have actually met!! but I forgot that Berkeley is just across the Bay from San Fran DOH!!! Many Thanks for the book, Micca

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Helen
Date: 29 Dec 05 - 12:52 AM

Hi My GuruAlways Said,

I'm so happy that the pressies arrived so quickly, given the lateness in posting them. And I'm glad you like them.

I was especially worried that the candles would melt in the Fijian heat and you wouldn't see their lovely frangipani shape.

Your very happy, not-so-Secret-Santa-now!
Helen

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: GUEST,Elmer Fudd, on the road
Date: 28 Dec 05 - 11:44 PM

Halloooooo, Secret Santa dearie,

I hear with my li'l ear that there's a package from the UK a-waiting for me at my house. I assume it's from you, since there ain't nobody else from them thar hills in the mood to send me nuttin' lately. Thank you in advance. When I return to hearth and home I will open it with glee and gusto, and thank you with more of the same.

Elmer

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Peter Kasin
Date: 28 Dec 05 - 11:38 PM

It was me, Micca! Glad you're enjoying the cookbook, "Heaven's Banquet." All the best for the new year!

Chanteyranger

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: My guru always said
Date: 28 Dec 05 - 03:21 PM

Well, my Santa (the lovely gorgeous Helen of Oz) managed to bribe the postal service with lots of dollars as my parcel arrived with the first available Apres-Christmas Holiday Postman. Thank you so much Helen!!

What a super assortment of pressies, just loved them all (including the Fijiian pink fluffy Dougals cunningly attached to a cute Koala). The beautiful purple bag will wear out from overuse I'm sure & I'm really looking forward to curling up with those books. The really useful Oz bag will be great for pottering around festivals and those fabulous (Fijiian) candles will only be lit for individual celebrations. All topped off by that lovely cushion & your card (hair shows the odd red tint in that light, but it's brownish, honest!).

Sharing this game with you has been an absolute pleasure, your gifts have been so thoughtful. My thanks & positive thoughts to you,
Hil

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Helen
Date: 28 Dec 05 - 02:43 PM

By the way, hilda fish, you got me with your postcard trick. When I picked up my parcel from the Post Office I lloked to see who my Secret Santa was but not at the address. I put it in my backpack & walked to work and didn't look at it properly until that night.

I nearly fell over when I saw Woolloomoolloo written on it.

So, your postcard ploy worked.

Helen

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: GUEST,EmmaB's SS
Date: 28 Dec 05 - 01:30 PM

Dear Emma, I'm glad you liked your gifts. You certainly were patient. Before I reveal myself, I'll give you a clue. The clue to my (Mudcat) identity is in the last line of the note(signature). Look closely, it's staring right at you in those four words:>)

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: CapriUni
Date: 28 Dec 05 - 12:46 PM

I'm so glad the package arrived before Twelfth Night!

.... the Spelling Fairy had indeed been at work but the kitty in the ear (or 'ere kitty kitty) is exactly like Raven and shall become a hallowed treasure for future Christmases.

Kitty in the Ear? Oh, dear. Spethan must have swapped an "e" for the "C" (and it would be so like him to play with puns, like that!). And it sounds like he did more than that, because 'Raven' sounds like the name for an all-black cat, and when I last saw the ornament, it had a little gray tiger-striped kitty sitting in the car. Still, Fairies and Gremlins have ways of knowing special, secret things, and he must have known how to make the ornament one that was just-for-Limpet.

Speaking of which, Spethan and I both send our best wishes for Limpet's recovery. He was just now whispering in my ear that he might try changing her germs into gems. But, frankly, I don't think that's such a good idea; having tiny rubies and emeralds inside you would probably make you even sicker. So it's best, I think, to just snuggle down warm, and rest, and let yourself get better, without magic.

Cheers! Ann

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Emma B
Date: 28 Dec 05 - 11:33 AM

Santa I saved my present until Xmas Day morning......it was lovely to open theat lovely large box of beautifully wrapped assorted goodies at last but....... still no clue to your "identity"
I would really like to thank you a little more personally - and maybe you could "translate" some of those recipes for me?
many many thanks
"M"

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: MuddleC
Date: 28 Dec 05 - 10:01 AM

thank you for the dream catcher, my current one has not been working very well.... the pink matches my toenails..


I will try bartering with the shiny stones, but memories of 'wounded knee' run deep around these parts and the natives are no longer so trusting......

batley............ hmmmmmmmmm, don't they have two heads up there?

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: MuddleC
Date: 28 Dec 05 - 09:51 AM

copied from other thread>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

well, my secret santa pressie has arrived from the sun-drenched sands of ..Batley   kirklees West Yorkshire eee bah gum lad
--now let's see...
The name Batley is derived from Anglo-Saxon meaning valley or homestead of bats, and is recorded in the Domesday book as 'Bathelie'!
.In Victorian times, Batley was the centre of the "shoddy trade" in which wool rags and clothes were recycled by reweaving them into blankets, carpets, uniforms.

Batley and its neighbour Dewsbury are part of a special E.U. transformation zone!!!!! -what, they are to become part of Lancashire?

Thank you secret S. I will open the wooden crate tomorrow...
perchance a family of scarlet uniformed bats, standing upright??

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Amos
Date: 28 Dec 05 - 09:25 AM

Dear EPN:

I was sure I had signed the card!

Next year, I promise to do better.

Happiest of New Years to you and your delightful distaffs.


A

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 28 Dec 05 - 08:18 AM

Limpits' SS gift arrived this morning - the postman got a shock as I was only wearing a dressing gown!

Thank you Capri-Uni, it was a thoughtful, amusing and ultimately chocolatey selection.... The book is wonderful, the Spelling Fairy had indeed been at work but the kitty in the ear (or 'ere kitty kitty) is exactly like Raven and shall become a hallowed treasure for future Christmases.

Limpit isn't too well, so it came as a lovely surprise for her. She'd be thanking you herself but Manitas has been fiddling with the computer and set all the parental controls to maximum, so she can't get in.

Thank you dear.... hopefully your own was as much fun!

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: CET
Date: 28 Dec 05 - 08:16 AM

I should have figured it was Greg Stephens. Your secret is out, Greg. Thanks once again for the great album. Charmion is looking forward to playing some of the fiddle tunes on her mandolin.

Edmund

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: el_punkoid_nouveau
Date: 28 Dec 05 - 06:08 AM

Dear Santa...

Thank you! I shall certainly enjoy listening to the other Mudcatters on my travels around (or even sat here at the old 'puter!).

So now I know where you are, but not quite exactly who...

epn

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: GUEST,Chanty Rangers nearly Secret Santa (In Brigh
Date: 28 Dec 05 - 05:17 AM

OK the secret is close to being revealed.

Your SS is indeed from Brighton.

The Return address on the Package was a coded address for the Royal Mail if they needed to return it so if you know how UK Postcodes work you can work out where in Brighton.

I am known to a number of UK catters so they may be able to give you further clues.

And if Tinker reads this she will know that her present came from the same address ( I sneakily acted as SS for my other half so that she will get a surprise Christmas pressie)

Glad you enjoyed the presents.

Incidentally there seems to be some delay with Elves and Reindeer coming from US as my and my other halves present doe not seem to have arrived yet. Never mind New Year and "Old Christmas Day are yet to come

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: GUEST,Tejas Santa to Mrs. Duck
Date: 27 Dec 05 - 10:48 PM

Sounds like you're on the right track, M'am--there are several of us down in these here parts, but few who visit the tavern.

S(R)S ;-)

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: number 6
Date: 27 Dec 05 - 10:31 PM

Yer welcome Edain .... I'm happy you received it on time ... and I hope there were no duty charges. Remember Moosehead is brewed right here in Saint John, and I'm not being biased when I say it is Canada's finest. I hope you do make it to Canada sometime Edain ... and if you do, definately have yerself a Moose.

sIx

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Edain
Date: 27 Dec 05 - 06:49 PM

Thanks number6 for a great t-shirt (as I once had the nickname of Moose for a couple of years it's quite fitting). Will have to try some of the beer sometime, if I ever make it to Canada that is!

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: GUEST
Date: 27 Dec 05 - 06:22 PM

Boat Band

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: CET
Date: 27 Dec 05 - 06:08 PM

I just got back from Christmas with my family and opened my Secret Santa present. It was very cleverly packaged with a return address for S. Claus and wrapped up in gun tape, which makes me think my Secret Santa has been in the Army or possibly has a contact in QM stores who ships him contraband. Inside was a copy of a newspaper from Newcastle, a piece of Kendal mint cake, and a stone from the Irish sea, as well as a CD from the Boat Band, with Secret Santa's name carefully blacked out wherever it appeared. That, of course, would be a dead give away for folkies from Cumbria, but still leaves me in the dark.

Whoever you are, thank you very much for a great Christmas present!!

Edmund

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: GUEST,Curmudgeon's cunningly crafty claus
Date: 27 Dec 05 - 09:13 AM

I'm sooo glad it arrived in one piece. I was really worried it might not make it through customs. I couldn't get a Mac version or I would have sent you both formats. I'm glad you can obtain translations. If you have a friend with a PC it might be easier to get them to access the site and print out hard copies of the whole book for you.
Happy Chrostmas

HO HO HO

Santa

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Firecat
Date: 27 Dec 05 - 09:06 AM

Thank you open mike!! I was amazed at how much you managed to fit in!!! Oh, just one more thing, drama queen, moi? :-D You bet!!!

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Mrs.Duck
Date: 27 Dec 05 - 08:47 AM

Well now, Santa, maybe the real clue was the Texan door in the tavern leading no doubt to a slow running green stream?

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: My guru always said
Date: 27 Dec 05 - 07:19 AM

So glad you've enjoyed the chase and your pressies Stilly! Had to start the game early to avoid my usual Christmas Chaos. Enjoy your walking & hope you find the odd cache - watch out for those paperclips though....

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: curmudgeon
Date: 27 Dec 05 - 06:58 AM

Thank you so much, Santa, whoever you may be, for all the delightful goodies, postcards, and cookbook. Although the subject matter clearly tells me that you're not from Hull, or London, or Yorkshire, I happen to know of at least two Catters from Sussex. I am also lookng forward to the tune collection, but as we are commited Mac users, it will have to wait until we can get the CD translated. Thanks again - Tom

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Micca
Date: 27 Dec 05 - 04:41 AM

I must now Thank My Secret Santa as I have opened the package and found.. a Complete Vegetarian Cookbook, Thank you so Much SS,It is an area in my cookbook collection that is deficient and is now splendidly filled, I dont know much (only the name I'm afraid) about the Ayura Vedic belief system , but they certainly seem to know how to prepare Veggies!!!
I stll have no idea who you are as clues have been sparse and the only person I can pinpoint at the point-of-origin of the pacet I am TOLD by Santa Control is Not right, so I would be delighted if you would reveal yourself, either on here or by PM so I can thank you properly!! anyway, meantime, Many Thanks, Your Gift is very much appreciated, Micca

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: GUEST,Jaze
Date: 26 Dec 05 - 11:32 PM

Many thanks to my Santa-SharonA for the great package from Pa. It means more than you know. I hope your Christmas was great and thanks for those wonderful clues and hints:>)

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: GUEST,Mrs. Duck's disorganized Secret Santa
Date: 26 Dec 05 - 09:25 PM

Glad you got the first box--and the stuff in it was a big clue. Did you know enough from the name on the box or the origination to know who I am? I don't want to wade in fessing up if you're still guessing.

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Micca
Date: 26 Dec 05 - 07:49 PM

Hollowfox, you are most very welcome, If I had known just a coupla weeks earlier I could have probably got the book Autographed by RJ(Bob) Stewart as he attends an event I usually go to and he is a very nice approachable guy too.
It is permitted to defend YOUR chocolate with any weapon that comes to hand, right up to tanks and AFVs. especially from teenagers who are probably too young for REAL high cocoa content chocolate anyway!!! glad it got there in time, HLVB, Micca

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 26 Dec 05 - 07:43 PM

Oh I just love this.....

and the look on CatsPHiddle's face was priceless!

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Sorcha
Date: 26 Dec 05 - 07:43 PM

I'm still waiting to hear from my Santee.......hellooo out there?

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Hollowfox
Date: 26 Dec 05 - 07:21 PM

Yes, my package arrived about two weeks ago. I'd *planned* to open it on the 21st, since there was a Yule theme to the hints, but the Urchins and I had just pulled off a minor miracle. (We went out, had lunch, chose and cut the tree, and had it set up in the living room in less than four hours flat. Appropriate swearing was permitted, and we were all still on speaking terms.) The mail arrived, and they were dying to see what it was. It was/is from Micca, and Oh My Sweet Fuzzy Ducklings!! There's a penguin keychain (how did you know that the local university's mascot is a penguin?)a real Christmas pudding, one of those sectioned chocolate oranges that I do _not_ intend to share with my teens, some hard candy that I might share, and more chocolate that I'm hoping they've forgotten they've forgotten about. I now own an egg cup (gotta try that out soon - wish me luck). Then there's a very elegant hip flask, two homegrown cd's with 'Catters on them to turn me on to his local folk scene,and ohmyghod a copy of Pagan Imagery in English Folksong by Bob Stewart! I won't have to interlibrary loan it anymore. I could go on and on, but I don't like to slaver and drool so much that it makes a bad impression. (his handwriting's better than mine as well) (and it impressed the everloving out of two teenagers) Thank you so much! Mary

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Pontefractured Santa!! 2005
From: Severn
Date: 26 Dec 05 - 07:16 PM

Thanks To Duckdom (Duckhood?) assembled, since I still don't know which one was actually my Santa.

But speaking as a history buff with a sweet tooth who likes nautical songs and needs all the luck and spare change he can get, I'm pleased on all accounts with a plethora of Pontefrectitude.

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Alaska Mike
Date: 26 Dec 05 - 04:54 PM

Dear Mrs Cobble, Glad you like the stuff I sent. I hope the socks are of a size that is wearable, I had to guess. Best wishes for the coming New Year and be sure to share those fish mints with those who need them.

Mike

PS: Still no clue as to who my Secret Santa is. I have a name, but not a Mudcat handle. Hmmmmm

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: katlaughing
Date: 26 Dec 05 - 04:42 PM

Ah, Snuffy, I am glad you like the stuff...*smile*...thanks for letting me know!

luvyakat

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Snuffy
Date: 26 Dec 05 - 04:30 PM

So many presents from the wonderful Katlaughing from Colorado/Wyoming: all sorts of amazing stuff about the west and its people, but most especially a copy of Kat's own book Wind Words of Wyoming and the CD of Cow Songs of the Old West sung by her dad, GL "Sparky" Hudson.

A million thankyous aren't enough, Katdarlin'

Snuffywhoisthechuffedonenow.

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Mrs Cobble
Date: 26 Dec 05 - 04:01 PM

From Alaska I have lots of pressies.. socks with polar bears and moose, lovely candy call 'Grizzly Bear Claws' and mints called 'Fish Breath'. Two CDs ..... just love your music Mike thank you so much. Happy New Year to you and your family and thank you for being my secret santa.

Margaret

Mrs C

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: open mike
Date: 26 Dec 05 - 03:52 PM

oh yes, santa, you MUST be MEGAN L!!

and SRS got 100..

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: open mike
Date: 26 Dec 05 - 03:27 PM

I am enjoying the stories from Maggie of life in the Orkneys,
on Papa Westray!
and the great little seals (are they silkies?!) and puffins
on the note cards are swimmingly cute!@
the fudge has been savored. better than neeps! (what are neeps?)
I am guessing some root drop or turnip like thing? (like "swedes"?)
Do you know or are you related to Maggie, the author?

thanks -- the pictures make me want to go to the Orkneys!

Laurel

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 26 Dec 05 - 02:56 PM

Are you taking great bites out of it or eating one page at a time?

100

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Amos
Date: 26 Dec 05 - 02:50 PM

Warmest thanks to Sarah the FLute and her jolly kin who sent me the Flying Chaucers and a most interesting book which I am devouring each evening; you helped make this the Merriest of Xmases! The Chaucers are firmly ensconced on my iPod!


Amos

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: jacqui.c
Date: 26 Dec 05 - 02:35 PM

I'm glad you enjoyed your parcel Khatt. I had great fun putting it together. Please send me a piccie of you in the shawl.

SINS - I'm sorry to say (no I'm not!) that I was the helpful elf who did the Christmas Tree Shop on you Santa's behalf. I thought that you would like that particular item.......

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Peter Kasin
Date: 26 Dec 05 - 02:23 PM

Thank you, Santa! I had asked for something from your home area, and got just that; a book of photographs taken from the pages of The Argus. It means that one of civilization's most cherished myths has been shattered. Santa, my friends, is actually from BRIGHTON.

Chanteyranger

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 26 Dec 05 - 01:34 PM

Yesterday the world slowed for a few hours and was the first time I could sit down and pour over the details provided in the clues. The 'Cat was down so my confirmation of my guess didn't happen until today. (It's nice to have days when pet catastrophes and schoolday runs and regular employment don't clutter ones time!) Got it this time! My Guru Always Said. I've opened the "Don't Open This Till the Guessing Is All Over!" envelope to confirm it. Aha!

I like to keep the holiday in a fairly narrow period so that it stays fresh, and this Secret Santa had such a jump on the season and holiday mailings that I've probably driven her nuts waiting to see when I'd figure it out--sorry about that! I've enjoyed the cards and the clues and have had the packages in their own little cache by the fireplace waiting for time when I could savor the unwrapping. Guide Cats For The Blind was opened early, and now I've unloaded the CD changer and will fill it with a nice little stack of CDs of live performances. I'm sure the zone is correct on the DVD, but I'll give it a spin on the computer first, where zone doesn't seem to matter.

Up until now, I've been focusing on the geocache stuff that was mailed early, trying to discern from the pages sent what the identity of a logged-in user might be (that was a hint way back). I haven't detected that id to track. I do know the land well where these items are cached and can report that many of the caches are on some beautiful open prairie property, though sadly, it is rapidly being bulldozed for building roads and houses (it was purchased by a developer a couple of years ago). I'll have to visit the online site and see what the current reports are for these caches. Most of them are about a mile from here, east of the Post Office and near the railroad tracks. I have a couple of photos of the prairie area about a half-mile north of the area in question, taken on a recent walk with my son. I'll get a few more of typical landscape and post them to my Yahoo photos and send a link. Since I don't have a GPS unit I'll pick up a topographic map and pace off the distance with a compass to locate at least one of these caches. Or maybe I'll just go for a walk through the area with my nosy dogs and see if they find them all by themselves!

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Den
Date: 26 Dec 05 - 01:06 PM

Thank you Secret Elf. I will hopefully get some time now that the dust has settled to listen to your CD. Thank you too fot the nive journal. It seems we were secret Santa to each other. Let me know if my pressies got top you.

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 26 Dec 05 - 12:53 PM

Thank you Santa Jenn in Albuquerque, what lovely pressies, although as a Scot with a penchant for alchohol, I never knew till yesterday that one could actually put a cork BACK in a bottle, I will give it a try now I have the fing wot yer does it wiv.
The T Shirt is absolutely beautiful, and is in one of my favourite colours, I love earthcolours and terra cottas.
Great CD too, must play it ☺ Been so busy today installing the new DVD/VCR player/recorder, it's in it's working, but we need to learn to drive it.
The brochure of ALBQQ is lovely too, looks like a nice place to visit, I've been singing Route 66 to myself all day.
I hope you and Art had a great Christmas, and I wish you both a Happy new Year.
Thanks again.
Giok

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Micca
Date: 26 Dec 05 - 12:51 PM

Ah Pud Ricing, having "back tracked" the rice pudding tin I think I have sussd out who you are, would it have something to do with a bridge that some Romans may have broken in the land of pouding a la Jorkshire? and a partner known for an occasioanal Duel? anyway Many thanks for the book, I am reading with much enjoyment, for those who simply MUST know, It is a Pooh Bear/Christopher Robin Update called, " Now we are Sixty"!!

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: GUEST,Pud Ricing
Date: 26 Dec 05 - 12:42 PM

I rather like my new name
I'm perfectly well and I haven't a pain
And its my favourite for dinner again!
(Well beats turkey!)

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: GUEST,Sinsull's Santa
Date: 26 Dec 05 - 12:22 PM

Mary!   So pleased that you enjoyed opening your gift...isn't it just superb. Thank you my little elves for helping me with this one. Unfortunately for you Mary, the Post Office elves have been somewhat tardy in delivering your next present which should have been with you well before the Xmas hols. All will be revealed when you open that prezzie. There's just a few 'hints' in there......and just be thankful that I stopped my naughtiest elf from sending you a blow up sheep to keep your moose head company.   There's another prez now on the way as well which should arrive just after the New Year.

Lots of love from your Santa xx

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Tinker
Date: 26 Dec 05 - 12:00 PM

SINSULL -- My gift went across the pond, so I can't take any credit:however, it might have fit wonderfully in my house's previous lifestyle.


I opened a wonderful book of historical photos of Brighton yesterday , but the clues are still pretty slim.

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: SINSULL
Date: 26 Dec 05 - 11:50 AM

Correction! In the light of day, the colors are actually purple, green, gold, teal, and rose with gold sequins, a crystal bead handle, and lavender fur trim.
If I didn't know that Jacqui was Khatt's SS I would blame her. HMMMM Who else went on the jaunt to the Christmas Tree Shop? So...isn't anyone going to take credit for this extraordianry piece of hideobilia?

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Mrs.Duck
Date: 26 Dec 05 - 11:42 AM

Thank you, Santa. My gift arrived on Christmas Eve how's that for timing and I can now even make turkey chilli on boxing day! Loved the pendant.

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Catherine Jayne
Date: 26 Dec 05 - 11:42 AM

SINSULL....I have to put my hand up and say that Street Walker Lamp was my idea........!

Now Santa....when I opened the presents, which Liz made me open infront of a crowded room of people with no way of escape, I imediately thought it was Sinsull or Jacqui C and I know who Sinsull sent to, so all I can say is Thank You Jacqui C!!.....I thought I had managed to get rid of those wine glasses!!! The shawl is beautiful, Kendall's CD is grand!, the nodding moose will take pride of place in my car (why I pass my test) There were lots of goodies from Maine!

Thank you!!

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 26 Dec 05 - 11:23 AM

I have lots of goodies from my super-generous Secret Santa, and I finally have the leisure to examine the clues more closely. Now that the 'Cat is back I can do some wading around in the archives and see what comes to the top.

I left one card unopened, just in case it reveals the exact information (i.e. the person that I suspect). A little more research, then I'll take a peek.

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: GUEST,Emma b's Secret Santa
Date: 24 Dec 05 - 09:29 PM

OPEN THEM! You've been more than patient. A Very Merry Christmas to you, EmmaB!

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: SINSULL
Date: 24 Dec 05 - 09:11 PM

Ah Tink, where to begin?????
This monstrosity is a lady's purse circa 1960. The fabric is red and green plaid with a tasteful dabble of tinsel thrown in for good measure. The handle is studded with rhinestones and the top fringed with fur which I suspect is cat given the interest my felines are showing it. It has a tastefully small candle light bulb within. I guess I have no choice but to put it and its evil twin on display for New Year's.
Next year, Liz, I insist on picking my own Secret Santa. And to think I waited for weeks to open it!!!
Funny thing is it's beginning to grow on me.
SINS

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Snuffy
Date: 24 Dec 05 - 07:51 PM

No, take the money ...

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Emma B
Date: 24 Dec 05 - 07:36 PM

It's 33 minutes into Xmas Day here and I haven't opened my pressie yet Santa dear .......should I ....shouldn't I...?

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Tinker
Date: 24 Dec 05 - 07:34 PM

Okay
SINSULL what was this amazing gift anyway ..... from your response I have no doubt of the high caliber of it's tack... but you leave us wondering what could match Jacqui and Kendall's offering on the alter of tack...

tink

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: SINSULL
Date: 24 Dec 05 - 06:44 PM

Dearest Secret Santa,
I am speechless! Actually, only words of three or less and five or more letters elude me. Your thoughtful gift will be placed next to its soulmate - the bottom half of a streetwalker in red lamp that was given to me on my birthday by Jacqui and Kendall. With any luck at all the cats will get them both before the New Year.
Ho Ho Ho
SINS

PS I am not surprised that you choose to remain anonymous.

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: GUEST
Date: 24 Dec 05 - 05:48 PM

WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!
I bin good all year and not a word from my Santa and no prezzie.
SOB SOB

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: jaze
Date: 24 Dec 05 - 04:34 PM

Thank you Santa. You got your Christmas miracle-your package came in the mail today. I look forward to opening it later tonight and trying to figure out who you are. Thanks again and Merry Christmas.

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Micca
Date: 23 Dec 05 - 03:53 PM

Oh, and Thanks for the prezzie , what ever it is, and who ever you are!!!

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Micca
Date: 23 Dec 05 - 03:52 PM

Ok, I'll ask the Question, Just WHO is Pud Ricing???

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: CET
Date: 23 Dec 05 - 12:49 PM

I got home early (Her Majesty having granted a Christmas stand down) and found that my Secret Santa gift has arrived, bedecked with intriguing Royal Mail stamps. We are leaving home in the next hour or so, and I will be saving my present for when I get back.

Many thanks.

Edmund

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Edain
Date: 23 Dec 05 - 12:25 PM

Parcel recieved :-) (Okay, it was probably recieved ages ago but I got back from Uni and it was waiting)

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: GUEST,Sorcha's Sly SS
Date: 23 Dec 05 - 09:19 AM

Sorcha,

It's past the solstice, so (depending on your belief system) it may well be OK to open it. BUT THERE IS NO INNER WRAPPING (other than a cereal packet for stiffening) so you may wish to wait till Sunday.

Personally I like the suspense. My SS package arrived many weeks ago, but is still totally untouched.

Hope you have (or already had) a happy festive season.

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Helen
Date: 23 Dec 05 - 02:53 AM

Thank you, to my Secret Santa, the beautiful hilda fish.

I did open it because I was feeling a little less cheerful than usual.

The startling thing was that when I opened the present I saw some material of a dark plum colour, exactly the same colour as the item I made by hand for my Secret Santee. I thought it would be an interesting coincidence if it were the same type of item, but even better, it is a very beautiful fringed pashmina. The material is so fine, and it drapes beautifully, but it will be warm as well.

I am going to a wedding tomorrow, Christmas Eve. (I'm not impressed with the date of the wedding!) I thought of wearing it there, but tomorrow's forecast is for 41 deg C. A little on the sweltering side.

And, now I get the reference to 8 'O's. I thought you meant zero's, and all my Santas & Santees have been o/s so I never expected you to live 2 hours south of here.

So, thank you again, for my lovely pashmina, and also for my two postcards with the colourful pictures of Buddha.

Helen

BTW, one of the things I really like about the Secret Santa is that I learn about Mudcatters I may not have had much contact with. I couldn't sleep at 2am today so I trawled through some of your posts at Mudcat and I am starting to get to know you better. Maybe one day we'll meet in person. Maybe at St Albans in April.

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: GUEST,Partridgeinapeartree's SS
Date: 22 Dec 05 - 05:10 PM

OOOOOOOH! Goody! It made it!
Now just a sip of your sweet (hic!) wine
and
I'll sleep at your table (hic!)
And feast in your (hic!) clover.
Who knows what..

No! No! can't be right! Have to lay off the sweet wine. YUK!
Have a lovely Christmas my Dear Feathered Friend. Love Today's SS

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Sorcha
Date: 21 Dec 05 - 03:45 PM

Mine came! It came!!! Can I open the outter wrapping, Santa? Please, plese????

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: katlaughing
Date: 21 Dec 05 - 02:18 PM

Dear Santa,

Just received the other package. THANK YEW, so much!! It DID arrive in time for Yule/Solstice. This morning started out a bit tough. I had to take my brother and his sixteen year old Siamese female, "Kimi," who was a birthday present to him, from me, to the vet for help in passing on.

Then I rushed home to finish up my cards to send out and went to the post office. I was so sad, when I saw it was your package in the box, I must confess I opened it! The earlier one, which said "not to be opened before De. 24th" is still under the tree, wrapped and all.

Your kindness and thoughtfulness cheered me up so much...I had tears of delight streaming down my face as I looked over the books, brochures and read your letter. I'll not let the cat out of the bag, so to speak, and say who you are, but, to me, you are the Best Santa there is!! (And all this time, I thought you had dangly bits!**bg**) More, later, when I have had time to absorb it all and read a bit. THANK YEW, THANK YEW, THANK YEW!!!

luvyakatwithaCheshireSmile!

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Firecat
Date: 21 Dec 05 - 10:39 AM

Thank you santa!! It arrived half an hour ago, couriered by a nice young man... :-D

I think I know who you are but I'm going to wait for confirmation on Sunday (or when my willpower runs out!). Just out of curiosity, am I allowed to open the outer box as long as I don't open the inner contents?

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Partridge
Date: 21 Dec 05 - 05:55 AM

Thank you santa. A mysterious package has been put under our tree and I'm not allowed to touch it. Its like being 5 again I'm all exited

Pat x

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: GUEST,Barb'ry's secretive (and surprised) Santa
Date: 20 Dec 05 - 11:23 AM

Barb'ry

So it got there???? Already?????? Wow! I really thought I was pushing my luck getting it off when I did. Now I feel like I was almost early!!!! Ho Ho Ho!

Merry Christmas
SSanta

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Barb'ry
Date: 20 Dec 05 - 06:16 AM

I haven't looked, I don't know who it's from (yet) but THANK YOU secret santa.
Have a lovely Christmas
love Barb'ry

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: GUEST,Blackcatter's Problem Poser
Date: 19 Dec 05 - 05:54 PM

Glad it has made it on time. If you still can't work out who it is after Yule read the last comment from me on the Silly Thread....Hee Hee Hee.

Have a brillant Yule and Blessed Be
xxxxxxxxxxx

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Blackcatter
Date: 19 Dec 05 - 05:12 PM

You're welcome Mooman. I think you'll like the book.

I got my pressie today as well. I won't open it until Yule (2 days) like I usually do. Looks like a shirt (possibly) and something else. Don't quite know who it's from - just that it's from Yorkshire - my favorite part of Britain!

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: CapriUni
Date: 19 Dec 05 - 02:57 PM

Sorry for the false alarm, Oh, innocent pome-writer. I found the addy of my un-secret Santa after I had help getting the parcel up on a table, where I could see it better.

Still awaiting yours, with gladful anticipation.

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 18 Dec 05 - 09:53 PM

Or course it is in perspective, it's a [subordinate] Clause!

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: GUEST,Megan's Santa
Date: 18 Dec 05 - 07:33 PM

Megan,

Please accept my apology for the belligerence of the previous post. I'm ashamed to have to say that the elves have been at the cooking sherry again. <(:-{ It's so difficult to get good help these days.

If they don't behave themselves there will be nothing under the tree for them on Christmas morning!

Regards
Santa

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: GUEST,Megan L's Elves
Date: 18 Dec 05 - 07:30 PM

Megan,

What do you mean, you can't find us??? We know where and who we are, so what's the problem?

Best Wishes
The Elves

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Mrs.Duck
Date: 18 Dec 05 - 04:23 PM

I must confess that I do not myself observe the distinction between "that" and "which." Furthermore, there is little evidence that this distinction is or has ever been regularly made in past centuries by careful writers of English. However, a small but impassioned group of authorities has urged the distinction; so here is the information you will need to pacify them.

If you are defining something by distinguishing it from a larger class of which it is a member, use "that": "I chose the lettuce that had the fewest wilted leaves." When the general class is not being limited or defined in some way, then "which" is appropriate: "He made an iceberg Caesar salad, which didn't taste quite right." Note that "which" is normally preceded by a comma, but "that" is not.

Sort of puts it in persective - unless you've been at the sherry as previously suspected ;0)

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: GUEST,Stilly's Secret Santa sighing with relief
Date: 18 Dec 05 - 03:56 PM

So pleased your 'slow-gnome' box arrived in time! Don't forget, the outer package may be opened without fear, but wrapped pressies go under the tree.....

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: GUEST,Secret Santa for the quiet Mrs. Duck
Date: 18 Dec 05 - 01:55 PM

Dux Redux. I can't type either. More (that which was forgotten) will be sent. Oy.

Pedant Note and Santa Clue: Not often do you see "that" and "which" together; usually "which" is erroneously used in place of "that."

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: CapriUni
Date: 18 Dec 05 - 01:45 PM

Dear Innocent Santa...

I am so sorry you are singing the blues (unless you want to, that is).

The parcel may be from my un-secret Santa (who is in Scotland), though he usually puts his return addy on the box, somewhere... I will have to ask if he did so, this time.

In any case, I think I will wait until after breakfast on Yule to open the thing, as the anticipation is also part of the present.

---
So when I fear the cold and darkness, too,
And sorrows seem to gather 'round my door
I'll open up my heart to love from you
And it shall light my way forevermore

You give this gift to me, a simple little thing
Yet, most of all, I feel the love that you've tied up with string

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: mooman
Date: 18 Dec 05 - 01:42 PM

Very many thanks to Blackcatter!

I know it's a book but I don't know what yet as I'm saving unwrapping it for Christmas Day!

A very Happy Christmas and New Year to you and yours too Tom!

Peace

moo

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Severn
Date: 18 Dec 05 - 01:26 PM

Ducks Redux? Or merely Ducks' Reduction?

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: GUEST,Mrs. Duck's forgetful Santa--mea culpa
Date: 18 Dec 05 - 10:31 AM

OOhhmygosh! I just found a couple of things that were supposed to go in Mrs. Duck's box! Blush. . .

It appears that Santa is going to have to send something for the New Year celebration instead.

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 18 Dec 05 - 10:18 AM

Thank you, Mrs. Cobble! (SS, you ARE Mrs. Cobble, aren't you?)

I've been remiss about posting to this thread -- but the arrival of the package helped me cope with all of the, uh, "excitement" of the past several weeks, ranging from painlessly (for the deer and my car) hitting a deer on the way home from work to having to get towed out of a snow cushioned ditch in the last snowstorm (fortunately about a quarter mile from home).

Curmudgeon is forcing me to save the wrapped items til Christmas morn -- otherwise I would have immediately ripped the paper off EVERYTHING!

And how cleverly you got everything to fit in the decorated box! I've been dipping into the Yorkshire nostalgia magazine -- reminds me of this country's "Reminisce" magazine out of my home state of Wisconsin. And I really hope I can wander about Selby Abbey sometime in the foreseeable future!

Now all I have to do is wait until Christmas morning! (And get the Real Estate Guide to the printer and get the tree trimmed and mail out more cards, and shovel out the house . . .)

Thanks again!
Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: GUEST,CapriUni's Innocent pome-writing Santa
Date: 18 Dec 05 - 08:47 AM

No Royal Mail here, dear CapriUni
it may cause you to want to sue
things are not always as they appear
While I sit all alone singin the blues ...

Therefore open your parcel
And there they will be found
things are not always as they appear
the coffee, unground

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Peter Kasin
Date: 18 Dec 05 - 02:55 AM

Thank you for checking in here, Santa. For now, I opened the outer portion and found the general interest item, a copy of the newspaper "The Argus.'" Flipping through it, I spot a photo of the local Health and Safety Officer taking a bath in a tub filled with baked beans, to raise money for breast cancer research. That's my kind of govt official!

Chanteyranger

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: CapriUni
Date: 18 Dec 05 - 12:47 AM

Today, the postman left a "Royal Mail" parcel at my door, because it is too big to fit in my mailbox. As there was no return address, I can only assume it was from someone trying to be secret. I'm fairly certain that must be from my Secret Santa, and not, say a gang of ninja viking elves.

It shall remain (patiently) unopened until my ever patient (and pome-writing) Santa gives the word.

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: hilda fish
Date: 17 Dec 05 - 06:04 PM

Thankyou thankyou Santa Marie Aine. I thought I already posted a thankyou but no, it's not there! Maybe it will pop up sometime and then you will have two thankyous! Deservedly. Thankyou for your pressy and your card and your great information. Have a great celebatory time with lots of peace and blessings for every day of your life.

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: artbrooks
Date: 17 Dec 05 - 05:33 PM

It was indeed our pleasure!

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: freda underhill
Date: 17 Dec 05 - 05:13 PM

thank you, Art and Jenny, you have given me a wonderful Christmas!!

freda

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Tig
Date: 17 Dec 05 - 04:42 PM

Thank you Santa Severn. I has been a good Tig and only opened the 'before' box and got my tapes. Now I will have to bide my soul in patience until the 25th to find out the extra exciting fings.

Lots of love and hugs
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: GUEST,Freda's Still-secret(?) Santa
Date: 17 Dec 05 - 08:18 AM

I'm not sure about bubbling, although babbling has been used from time to time. I am not a Jenny Wren...but I am very close to one (she knits). A canine carrier? Dunno about that one. BTW, the fabric art is called a bandana. You can tie it over your hair or, alternately, wipe your nose on it...or both, if you prefer. Positively last clue: What type of book was it you said you wanted in your original set of clues? Take the middle letter from the first word, add it to the second word, and shove the two together.

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: freda underhill
Date: 17 Dec 05 - 03:48 AM

first, the clever riddles, the geographic references, the references to letters, and the western jacklope.. then a number of sly suggestions by a couple of catters.. what a very mysterious SS..

My package arrived yesterday, postmarked Albuquerque!

I managed to discipline myself for about five minutes, and then...
was quite overwhelmed as lovely thing after lovely thing came out! Green chilli pepper jelly (gulp - this will be a new experience!!) Avanyu - the water serpent - strangely, many years ago i did an artwork based on this creature, and it was a lovely feeling to see the little Avanyu badge, and the purple printed linen artwork accompanying it. A number of theories were gallumphing around my head, but the sight and feel of the beautiful (perfectly fitting) handknitted socks have led me to ....

probably a bubbling brook, a jenny wren, or maybe a canine carrier?

I am wandering very happily, "round the house", clutching some very interesting things, and say THANK YOU SANTA!

and i would like to know who you are, so I can thank you properly!!

hugs and happiness

freda

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: GUEST,Chanteyrangers Santa
Date: 17 Dec 05 - 03:18 AM

Glad the reindeer and elves did the job properly.

The package contains a gift wrapped present and another item for general interest that you may (if you chose) look at before Christmas.

The additional item will give you a clue as to which part of Mudcatland I come from.

To my knowledge I am the only (registered) catter from my city in Southern England.

Happy Christmas

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Peter Kasin
Date: 17 Dec 05 - 12:13 AM

I just got a package through Royal Mail. That means It sure ain't from Kansas. Thank you in advance, Santa! Unless I hear from you otherwise, I'll open it Christmas eve or day.

Chanteyranger

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: katlaughing
Date: 16 Dec 05 - 05:52 PM

Funny thing is, Santa Dear, it's the same addy as on the package, so honestly? **bg**

Of course that still doesn't tell me who you really are, Mudcat-wise, so perhaps I'll have to ring up the not-really-you-secretary and see if you have a fav. nickname!

This is SO much fun. Thank yew!!!

luvyakat

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Col K
Date: 16 Dec 05 - 05:34 PM

My package arrived today.
It will remain sealed until the day.
Many thanks to my SS.
Col

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Kim C
Date: 16 Dec 05 - 05:19 PM

Sandra, I know you will make something stunning out of those beads. :-)

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: GUEST,katlaughing's only slightly relieved Santa
Date: 16 Dec 05 - 12:15 PM

I'm glad at least one of the parcels has arrived and you'll have something to open for Xmas - I don't know where the "Badminton sec." came from - it ain't ME - honest!

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Sarah the flute
Date: 16 Dec 05 - 11:24 AM

Hi Amos

Glad the parcel got there safe and sound. Be careful of the littlist parcel ....bit fragile I think!

Enjoy

Happy Christmas

Sarah

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Sarah the flute
Date: 16 Dec 05 - 11:21 AM

Bente!!!!!
I would NEVER have guessed!
Your parcel was amazing .... all those wonderful Danish treats! I tried to PM but can't find your name listed under bfdk so I found what I hope is your email online and have sent a more detailed thankyou.
Cheers & happy christmas!

Sarah

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: MBSLynne
Date: 16 Dec 05 - 06:48 AM

So glad you got it Art...did you guess us? Enjoy and have a lovely Yuletide

Love Lynne

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 15 Dec 05 - 09:01 PM

hello, again KimC

seasonable greetings to you & family

I will be pulling the bracelet apart to re-thread it as the elastic is soooo fine I worry about it breaking. The colours are lovely & a perfect choice.

sandra

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Severn
Date: 15 Dec 05 - 04:21 PM

Got my present from the UK somewhereabouts and will follow instructions not to open until THE DAY itself. Many thanks in advance to a generous and thoughtful Santa, who I've somewhat narrowed down the identity of, but will wait in High Suspense for the final opening for the final knowledge.

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: artbrooks
Date: 15 Dec 05 - 02:30 PM

A joint package from MSBLynne and Rat-W to jennbrooks and me!! Books, a CD and chocolate. What wonderful peoples you are!

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Snuffy
Date: 14 Dec 05 - 08:31 PM

As I said a month ago on the Signals thread, I have received a parcel from Colorado (but I don't believe my SS usually resides there).

But all will be revealed in another 10 days, won't it? Till then the parcel remains tantalisingly unopened.

Now just got to see if my Santee has got his/hers yet.

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: katlaughing
Date: 14 Dec 05 - 07:53 PM

Thank yew, thank yew, Santa! My package arrived, today! I promise to be good and not open it until Christmas Eve.

Now, I am off to find out just who the club secretary of the Norley Badminton Club really is!!**bg** (Beautiful addy labels, btw.)

luvyakat

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Kim C
Date: 14 Dec 05 - 12:13 PM

Hi Sandra!!! I didn't know how to wrap all that stuff and still fit it in the envelope. ;-) Enjoy your early Christmas pressies in good health and have a wonderful holiday!

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 14 Dec 05 - 08:08 AM

Thankyou, Santa KimC

I would not have unwrapped my pressie cos I like to open pressies on the day, but as the goodies were loose inside the padded bag I could see them and ...

sooooo, thankyou for a lovely CD (I just finished playing it for the first time), and beautiful bracelet & 2 hanks of your very own hand-spun wool.

Sandra, a very appreciative santee

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Megan L
Date: 13 Dec 05 - 02:33 PM

weel my santa says they come frae NSW but i canny find them . Thanks ony wey

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Mrs Cobble
Date: 13 Dec 05 - 02:02 PM

Hurray my secret santa pressie arrived today but humbug.....there is a lable saying I must not open until Christmas!   I think I now know who my ss is..... the postmark gave it away. Truly from the frozen north. I promise I won't open it before 25th.
Mrs C

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Amos
Date: 13 Dec 05 - 09:25 AM

Well, dear SS, your package arrived most safely and the little pressies in it are clustered under the tree awaiting the Day. I can't wait. I love the pictures and cards, too!


A

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: GUEST,Tinker's Secret Santa
Date: 13 Dec 05 - 09:04 AM

That was me Tinker,

I heard you had been good so passed the package to the UK Elf Service for transmission some time ago.

I will leave it to you to decide when you open it.

Glad it arrived . I was beginning to worry that it might have got held up by a reideer strike.

Enjoy

Santa

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Joybell
Date: 12 Dec 05 - 07:45 PM

Liz, So the sardines arrived safely? That's good. Purrrrrrrrrr.

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: GUEST,Sorcha's Sly SS
Date: 12 Dec 05 - 09:07 AM

You may have got something from the Freemans, Sorcha, but you haven't got one from me yet!!

But it is on its way and should be with you soon(-ish).

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Tinker
Date: 11 Dec 05 - 11:12 PM

I've got a pretty package and a newspaper from Brighton UK ---no other clues but I'm (impatiently) waiting til Christmas.

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: JennieG
Date: 11 Dec 05 - 08:11 PM

Thank you Santa, my present arrived today and I am not very strong willed....it may not wait until Christmas to be opened!

Cheers
JennieG

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Sorcha
Date: 10 Dec 05 - 09:17 PM

I got an unexpected one today...from the Freemans! Whee! No, I don't know what it is yet...

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 10 Dec 05 - 08:00 PM

A bigger box arrived today, mailed earlier than the rest. mmmmmm. . . This secret santa really plans ahead!

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: karen k
Date: 10 Dec 05 - 06:40 PM

Mine arrived today. Will wait until Christmas per instruction on the package.

Thank you, ss

karen

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 10 Dec 05 - 05:11 AM

I'm being a good boy and waiting till Christmas day. In the meantime thank-you Santa in Albuquerque, and in anticipation.
Giok

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: GUEST,Micca's secret Santa
Date: 10 Dec 05 - 05:03 AM

Open it anytime you'd like, Micca. Thank you for checking in here and letting me know it got to you in time for Christmas. In good time, too.

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Micca
Date: 08 Dec 05 - 08:10 AM

I shall await the ruling of my Geometric Californian, Sins

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: SINSULL
Date: 08 Dec 05 - 08:06 AM

No you don't Micca! WAIT!

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Emma B
Date: 08 Dec 05 - 08:06 AM

I haven't peeked yet - but - the suggestion of "candy" contents is beginning to break my resolve down!
Still no idea who you are Santa baby, but thanks "M"

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Micca
Date: 08 Dec 05 - 07:46 AM

I have received a package from Berkeley, CA, in the Sender box it says "S Santa" so I have NO idea who its from I am debating wether to open it in search of further clues or wating until Yule, SS if you are out there please advise?

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: freda underhill
Date: 08 Dec 05 - 07:42 AM

Thank you, Santa, for my lovely postcard of the Western Jackalope.

It has pride of place on my fridge.

Freda

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: jacqui.c
Date: 08 Dec 05 - 07:36 AM

Mary - I'm going to have to wait until the 29th to even see if Santa has delivered to me, let alone open anything.

If you're not careful you'll get the $5 fine my lady!

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Helen
Date: 08 Dec 05 - 02:14 AM

Thank you, Santa, for my lovely postcard of the Padmapani Lokeswara.

I have the card standing up on my desk.

Helen

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: SINSULL
Date: 07 Dec 05 - 10:45 PM

Why do they get to open their presents and I have to wait??? Not fair!!!! A big red box staring me right in the face and I am forbidden to open it until December 25th. GRRRRR

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Alaska Mike
Date: 07 Dec 05 - 09:34 PM

Thank you Santa, the music you sent is quite interesting and enjoyable. I am just starting on the book and look forward to many hours of pleasant prose. There was quite a bit left over from the postage money you sent, so I used the extra to bounce a little something back to you. My only question is WHO ARE YOU??? The name on the return address gives me no clue whatsoever as to your Mudcat name. So come clean and spill the beans.

Best wishes,
Mike

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: number 6
Date: 07 Dec 05 - 03:57 PM

A big thanks to Santa for that offical lookin police guitar strap .... I say it really helps when I'm playing bad at the Bluegrass jams!!

No one will dare take a punch at me to quit playin.

sIx

Subject: RE: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 07 Dec 05 - 03:49 PM

freshen up

Subject: BS: Thank you Santa!! 2005
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 07 Dec 05 - 08:59 AM

It's getting a little crowded on the hints thread, and now parcels have started to arrive so I thought I'd begin a new thread to say THANK YOU to all those Secret (and not so secret) Santas.

And I begin with Joy in Australia - Thank you! I got home from work today to find a parcel sitting on my doormat, surrounded by cats who were sniffing at it and quite disappointed that I'd got home early, so obviously were they going to start opening without me!

I have placed it in a secure position and will not touch it until Christmas, but thank you so much!!

And another huge Thank You to Jacqui C, my suede box is gorgeous and the only better than it is the exquisite shawl inside. I hope you didn't get too far out of your way on Monday - I forgot to warn you about the junction!

Thank you everyone for taking part in this again.

SECSY
LTS