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Secret Santa 2019 - now with more DoomWeasels!

Nov 2, 2019#1

Emrys

‘Twas the month before Christmas and all through the lands, Halforumites were nervously wringing their hands.

@Tress had asked for a replacement this year, but no one expected this volunteer.
Yes, my children, I have volunteered to replace Tress as the Secret Santa coordinator this year. And I am hurt - HURT, I SAY - by the slanderous remarks that I'm doing this just to get everyone's addresses in order to better organize The Scampering. Now, let me just uncross my fingers here and we'll get down to business.

If you're experiencing déjà vu from the message below, that's because I lifted it directly from Tress' message last year. What's he gonna do - sue me? :rofl:

I have weasel lawyers.

What is it?
It's a Secret Santa between Halforumites. Everyone who signs up will be randomly assigned another participant. You are then tasked to buy that person a gift. As a recipient, you should leave a few hints in a post to this thread as to what sort of interests you have.

Rules and Info
To sign up, send me a PM with your email address, shipping address, and any gift rules/restrictions. Be sure to specify whether or not you would accept NSFW or "adult" gifts (such as alcohol/sex themed gifts). Also, please specify if you are unwilling/unable to ship internationally.

International people are allowed. If you would prefer not to get an international person, indicate so when you sign up. It may be the case that if you restrict your choice to local shipping then matching might not work out and you may be left out - I'll let you know once the matching is complete if that's the case. So far, we've always been able to match everyone that wanted to participate and meet their shipping requirements.

International Shipping Links: USPS, Customs Forms

Tips for shipping in and out of Canada

Remember to allow extra shipping time when shipping outside of your home country

Who can sign up?

To keep things fair, only those with a join date earlier than April 1, 2019 with more than a handful of posts will be allowed to participate (for obvious reasons). If you would like to participate and don't fall under the requirements, then you will just have to wait until next year. The final say of who can join this activity will be entirely up to Dave so there may be exceptions, but his final word is final. Don't complain if special dispensation is not made for you. This goes for those who may be dis-included as well.

The deadline for signing up will be November 30th. After that day, your Secret Santa will be randomly assigned by computer. You will be sent an email or PM shortly after with the information of whom you will be drawing a gift for.

Recommended gift value is $10 to $50. Feel free to spend as much as you want, just be aware that the more you spend, the less likely you will receive a gift of equal value. Also, homemade/handmade gifts are allowed, and even encouraged (no homemade food please).

Absolute final deadline for gifts sent is December 14th! People who do not send gifts by December 14th will be dipped in salmon oil and thrown into the weasel pit. No exceptions. If you are not certain you will be able to send a gift, then don't sign up.

Do not complain about your gift; conversely, try to send something you think the other person will like.

You must post pictures of your gift when you receive it or @Doomweasel minion will pay you a visit.

Unless specified as something they would like, please do not send NSFW or alcoholic gifts. Please note that many states/nations have rules about shipping alcohol, so when in doubt, choose another gift.

Can I ship something straight from Amazon or something?

Yes, you can, and it's a good idea to shop at your person's home country's Amazon site (www.amazon.ca for instance) if you want to save a bit on shipping.

Ship well in advance!

Get your act together now and ship your stuff by Dec 14th to make sure it arrives before the crazy Christmas rush that always happens at the latter half of December.

As people sign up, I will post a list showing their names. When we move on to the next step, I'll be sure to update that too.

CURRENT LIST (updated 8:15pm 11/11):
Bubble181
CeltZ
Dave
Dei
Dirona
evilmike
Far
GasBandit
jwhouk
PatrThom
Sparhawk
ThatNickGuy
Tinwhistler
Tress
Wahad

Nov 2, 2019#2

Far

Sign me up! Will send the pm later.

Nov 2, 2019#3

jwhouk

I'm in.

Guess I should throw my Amazon wish list up here:

https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/1FHYFSSYHXISZ?ref_=wl_share

Nov 2, 2019#4

Tinwhistler

I'm in.
I will take any kind of gift. I have a wishlist, but will take anything, really

https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/CN83OR4Z7K3K

Nov 3, 2019#5

Wahad

I'm in! With no amazon wishlist but I have amended last year's post about things I am cool with getting into the pm to the organisation.

Nov 3, 2019#6

Bubble181

Does "more doomweasels" mean we get a free Doomie in the Roomie with every shipment over €25?

I'm in, but I'll only be able to send a pm with my likes and wishlist etc next week when I'm on a desktop.

Nov 3, 2019#7

Dirona

I'm in!

Nov 3, 2019#8

ThatNickGuy

All right, all right. Twist my arm. I'm in.

EDIT: Canadian Amazon wishlist. Will probably be updated here and there, since it's not something I ever really used.

Nov 3, 2019#9

GasBandit

I'm in. Alcohol and porny gifts are fine. I don't have a wishlist, but you guys always come up with good stuff anyway.

Nov 3, 2019#10

PatrThom

Bubble181 said:
Doomie in the Roomie

This could be the next Xmas fad.

--Patrick

Nov 3, 2019#11

jwhouk

Wish list for @GasBandit: 40 gallon drums of Tile Kleen.

Nov 3, 2019#12

Dave

I'm in, but the opposite of Gas - no porn/alcohol, please.

Nov 3, 2019#13

PatrThom

I'm in, but at Gas/2. Alcohol is fine, but no porn.

--Patrick

Nov 3, 2019#14

drifter

Tinwhistler said:
I'm in.
I will take any kind of gift. I have a wishlist, but will take anything, really
https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/CN83OR4Z7K3K

I have that exact model dashcam. I don't use parking mode so I can't speak to that (although I did install the hardwire kit just in case), but otherwise it's been great. Although if I were looking today, I would also strongly consider the Thinkware FA200. Similar performance from what I understand, but parking mode is better, at a competitive price point.

Nov 3, 2019#15

Tinwhistler

Every so often, I hit teh interwebz and see what the latest dashcams are being recommended. Maybe one day my wife will actually use my wish list to buy me some christmas

Nov 3, 2019#16

jwhouk

Also should point out (though it should be obvious to those who've done this before) that no alcohol/NSFW/pron gifts.

Nov 3, 2019#17

Tinwhistler

I feel compelled to say that, even though I have never gotten a NSFW gift, I'm totally ok with them. It'd probably be a real hoot.

Or, you know, if you just wanna send me private nudes of yourself, that'd work too

Nov 3, 2019#18

Emrys

For some reason, I can't edit my first message, so here is the list of who is in as of November 3rd:

Bubble181 (still need PM)
Dave
Dirona
Far
GasBandit
jwhouk
PatrThom (still need PM)
ThatNickGuy (still need PM)
Tinwhistler
Wahad

A couple of information ~~demands~~ requests when you PM me:

A name (your name, my name, anyone's name), or at least a first initial/last name, as the post office might be cranky about delivering a package to your Halforumite name.
An email address, in case your Secret Santa wants to send you an electronic gift.
Specify yes/no on NSFW/liquor or you might end up with nipple clamps and a 6-pack of Milwaukees Best and no one wants that. Unless you do. I'm not here to judge.
Specify yes/no on shipping internationally.

OK, that's all. Go about your business and no, that rustling in the closet is not a doomweasel.

Nov 3, 2019#19

jwhouk

Of course it's not a Doomweasel. It's my cat.

Nov 3, 2019#20

Emrys

jwhouk said:
Of course it's not a Doomweasel. It's my cat.

I meant the other rustling.

Nov 3, 2019#21

GasBandit

Emrys said:
For some reason, I can't edit my first message

Edited for you.

Nov 5, 2019#22

Emrys

GasBandit said:
Edited for you.

You're the best.

Nov 6, 2019#23

Tress

I'm in! I haven't been able to do it for years. I may not be able to run this, but I can definitely squeeze in some time to participate.

Nov 6, 2019#24

evilmike

I'm in as well.

Nov 6, 2019#25

Dei

I'm in, will send a PM later when I'm not out running errands.

Nov 11, 2019#26

Celt Z

Count me in!

Nov 11, 2019#27

GasBandit

List updated again per the Queen's direction.

Nov 11, 2019#28

Sparhawk

I'll do it again!

Nov 20, 2019#29

jwhouk

A rather obvious addition to my list would be any Brewers stuff with the new logo on it...

(NOTE: Size 7 3/4 hat, though I prefer adjustable.)

Nov 24, 2019#30

Emrys

The participant list has been updated. If you don't see your name on the list, let me know ASAP.

I'm going to change the deadline to sign-up to Wednesday, November 27th, so I can get your Secret Santas to you on Thursday so you can take advantage of any Black Friday/Cyber Monday sales.

So far, there are only 15 people signed up to participate and I know there are more Halforumites than that. How do you expect me to enact The Scampering with so few victims?

Did I say that out loud? Nah...

Nov 28, 2019#31

Emrys

Just an update - I'm going to send out the Secret Santa information this evening when I get home from work. Everyone should have their assigned person by 8:00 pm CST.

Nov 28, 2019#32

Anonymous

@PatrThom - your gift should be on its way before the 9th.

Nov 28, 2019#33

Anonymous

@Celt Z
Ur gifts should show up sun dec 1.

Nov 28, 2019#34

PatrThom

Anonymous said:
@PatrThom - your gift should be on its way before the 9th.

That was fast. I just got home!

--Patrick

Nov 29, 2019#35

Emrys

Oh, @Far, your Secret Santa would like some gift ideas. Please respond. Don't make me send a doomweasel after you.

Nov 29, 2019#36

Anonymous

Update for @PatrThom - gift should be arriving at your door December 6.

Nov 29, 2019#37

PatrThom

Anonymous said:
Update for @PatrThom - gift should be arriving at your door December 6.

So much for 30min or it’s free.

I work until 9:30p tonight and then have to be back by 7:30a, so my secret Santee may need to wait an extra day or two.

—Patrick

Nov 29, 2019#38

Anonymous

@ThatNickGuy , your swag should arrive Dec 5th.

Nov 29, 2019#39

Dei

I'm out of town and probably won't even be able to think about this until at least Monday, so I'm not going to be an early bird on this.

Nov 30, 2019#40

Celt Z

(Some people are way more on top of this than me.)

Thank you, Santa @Tinwhistler ! My feet will be toasty with Moon Prism Power!

Nov 30, 2019#41

Tinwhistler

Celt Z said:
(Some people are way more on top of this than me.)

Thank you, Santa @Tinwhistler ! My feet will be toasty with Moon Prism Power!

Glad you liked them! You have another box still marked as out for delivery.

Nov 30, 2019#42

Celt Z

It just arrived! Sorry, I didn't know, or I would have waited to post!

And good things are worth the wait!

(Yeah, I'm a mess because we were outside putting up the lights.)
Thank you again, Santa Tin!

Nov 30, 2019#43

mikerc

No I don't think it's weird that we never see Celt Z & Wonder Z in the same room together. Why would I find that weird? Next you'll be asking me why we never see puny Parker & Spider-Man together either.

Nov 30, 2019#44

Tinwhistler

Celt Z said:
It just arrived! Sorry, I didn't know, or I would have waited to post!

And good things are worth the wait!

(Yeah, I'm a mess because we were outside putting up the lights.)
Thank you again, Santa Tin!

you're very welcome

Nov 30, 2019#45

Far

Emrys said:
Oh, @Far, your Secret Santa would like some gift ideas. Please respond. Don't make me send a doomweasel after you.

Hey! Sorry, been out all day the last few and missed this.

Here's my bookshelf again this year and my ebooks. Good way to get an idea of the things I like. Particular favourites are the Red Rising series.

Also, I realized recently that while I've been playing League of Legends since early 2011 I don't have anything league related. These are my top 8 most played champions, Lux by a huge margin.

And here's my list of steam games. Please...don't buy me any more games though. Not even gonna bother linking to my wishlist, the profile is just again to give a good idea of what I'm into.

Let me know if this kickstarts any ideas. If not, I can provide more!

Dec 1, 2019#46

Anonymous

@Bubble181 Weasels have been dispatched to your location. Due to their tiny legs, but boundless energy, they will arrive on Tuesday Dec 3rd. Be prepared.

Dec 1, 2019#47

Bubble181

Uh-oh. I better start cleaning up, or they'll report back to the Queen what a mess her European branch is :aaah:

Dec 1, 2019#48

Bubble181

Since I'm leaving on holiday the 4th, pictures may be later.

Dec 1, 2019#49

Anonymous

Hi @Tress ! Your shipments are on their way - one should arrive somewhere between the ninth and the twelfth, the other between the sixth and thirteenth. They're more on the "interesting" than "fun" part of the spectrum of gifts, but I hope you'll find enjoyment anyway.

Dec 1, 2019#50

Anonymous

@Tinwhistler your gift is ordered, but the delivery window is unusually wide. The seller says it may arrive on your doorstep anywhere from Dec 9-31. Will update with any additional info.

Dec 2, 2019#51

Anonymous

Anonymous said:
Hi @Tress ! Your shipments are on their way - one should arrive somewhere between the ninth and the twelfth, the other between the sixth and thirteenth. They're more on the "interesting" than "fun" part of the spectrum of gifts, but I hope you'll find enjoyment anyway.

USPS has a very special way of counting calendar days, so now the first part will be arriving the fourth, and the second the tenth.

Dec 2, 2019#52

Bumble the Boy Wonder

Aw poop, I missed this

Dec 2, 2019#53

Cog

Sorry I didn't participate this year.

Dec 2, 2019#54

Anonymous

I don't know what to get @Far.

Dec 2, 2019#55

Anonymous

Sorry, Far's Secret Santa here again. Never mind. Didn't see his post above before posting. I have some ideas and have begun peculating ideas.

Dec 2, 2019#56

Anonymous

@Dei yours might be a tad later than normal. money is a real thing apparently.

Dec 2, 2019#57

PatrThom

Cog said:
Sorry I didn't participate this year.

You've had a lot going on lately. No worries.

--Patrick

Dec 2, 2019#58

Emrys

@Bumble the Boy Wonder and @Cog, you can still send gifts to me!

Dec 2, 2019#59

PatrThom

Emrys said:
@Bumble the Boy Wonder and @Cog, you can still send gifts to me!

So...what, they can each send one pallet?

--Patrick

Dec 2, 2019#60

Emrys

PatrThom said:
View attachment 32493

So...what, they can each send one pallet?

--Patrick

Yes, and they shall be spared The Scampering.

Dec 2, 2019#61

Anonymous

@Dirona - your Delivery Doomie has been sent on his way! Expect a package either Friday or Monday, unless he gets distracted by something shiny.

Dec 2, 2019#62

Anonymous

Welp, Far's order has been made. REALLY hope he likes it.

Dec 3, 2019#63

Anonymous

@Bubble181 I have received an email that the delivery has been delayed by a day due to something at the delivery service. However, they only mentioned one part of the order, so I don't know if the other part will still arrive today or not.

Dec 3, 2019#64

Bubble181

Anonymous said:
@Bubble181 I have received an email that the delivery has been delayed by a day due to something at the delivery service. However, they only mentioned one part of the order, so I don't know if the other part will still arrive today or not.

One part arrived today; sadly it was broken. I wasn't at home, but since it rattled around my fiancée opened it and a part had come off. She called the shipper and they'll credit it back, so you can decide to buy it again or not.

Dec 3, 2019#65

Wahad

Well, that's some real weasel-dung. If I do get the money back, I'll buy you a replacement. Sorry man

Dec 3, 2019#66

Bubble181

Wahad said:
Well, that's some real weasel-dung. If I do get the money back, I'll buy you a replacement. Sorry man

You can't help it. It's a pretty mug, just with an ear missing :confused:

There's plenty of packaging around the box with the mug in it but inside the box was nothing. I can't imagine any mug surviving that mode of transport.

Dec 3, 2019#67

PatrThom

Bubble181 said:
You can't help it. It's a pretty mug, just with an ear missing
There's plenty of packaging around the box with the mug in it but inside the box was nothing. I can't imagine any mug surviving that mode of transport.

https://home.howstuffworks.com/how-to-repair-kitchen-equipment2.htm

—Patrick

Dec 3, 2019#68

Anonymous

@evilmike Gift is incoming but Amazon was being weird and asking for a phone number as well as saying your zip code and address were wrong, though I verified with google that what you'd provided matched, so I'm shipping here first then will send off to you. Should still make the shipping deadline.

Dec 3, 2019#69

jwhouk

A general note to my Secret Santa Doomweasel: an appropriate t-shirt (XXL) from your locale or some ST:TOS related knick-knack would also be accepted.

Dec 4, 2019#70

Wahad

@Bubble181 Your second package was delivered to your neighbor at 67. I figure you're already on holiday as you mentioned but that's where you can pick it up on your return.

Dec 4, 2019#71

PatrThom

Anonymous said:
Update for @PatrThom - gift should be arriving at your door December 6.

I believe my gifts have arrived, though they were delivered by a brown vehicle, not a yellow one.

--Patrick

Dec 4, 2019#72

Anonymous

PatrThom said:
I believe my gifts have arrived, though they were delivered by a brown vehicle, not a yellow one.

--Patrick

It should; Amazon says they were delivered.

Dec 7, 2019#73

ThatNickGuy

I don't know who [Real Name Redacted] is from on here, but these arrived in the mail a few days ago. Thank you! No idea when I'll get around to reading them, but thank you!

Dec 7, 2019#74

jwhouk

Not sure if my SS is still getting stumped for gifts, but a few ideas:

Anything with the Packers, Brewers, Bucks, Badgers, Coyotes and Cardinals (of Arizona), or Nashville Predators.
Doctor Who (12th/13th Doctor)
ST:TOS and TNG.

And - believe it or not - I wouldn't mind having a great NASA t-shirt.

Dec 7, 2019#75

GasBandit

ThatNickGuy said:
I don't know who [Real Name Redacted] is from on here, but these arrived in the mail a few days ago. Thank you! No idea when I'll get around to reading them, but thank you!

SECRET santa man

Glad you like em.

Dec 7, 2019#76

ThatNickGuy

GasBandit said:
SECRET santa man

Glad you like em.

Whoops, sorry. But I also didn't know how else to identify ya.

Dec 7, 2019#77

PatrThom

ThatNickGuy said:
Whoops, sorry. But I also didn't know how else to identify ya.

Gotta be careful. If word gets out he does nice things from time to time, his reputation might be ruined.

—Patrick

Dec 7, 2019#78

Anonymous

@Sparhawk The seller has sent your gift and it should arrive Monday.

Dec 7, 2019#79

Anonymous

ThatNickGuy said:
Whoops, sorry. But I also didn't know how else to identify ya.

I almost answered, but I decided to conceal his secret identity.

Dec 7, 2019#80

GasBandit

Oh, and I got a package, but I have suspicions (borne by a shipping notification e-mail) that another is still enroute, so I'll wait till the second one gets here before I post mine

Dec 7, 2019#81

Celt Z

GasBandit said:
Oh, and I got a package, but I have suspicions (borne by a shipping notification e-mail) that another is still enroute, so I'll wait till the second one gets here before I post mine

Oh, sure, just rub it in!

Dec 7, 2019#82

GasBandit

Celt Z said:
Oh, sure, just rub it in!

Dec 8, 2019#83

Anonymous

Dear @Wahad,
Your secret Santa regrets to say that part of your gift will be late due to delays from a merchant - probably until shortly after Christmas. The rest of your gifts are on their way!

Dec 9, 2019#84

Dirona

There was a deeply suspicious package lurking by my front door today upon my return from work.
.

Contents: Card and two boxes - one small and heavy, one medium and light.

Revealed contents: a lovely card from the fabulous @Celt Z, a D&D card game (which I am looking forward to trying out with @Eriol, and the cutest little red dragon I have ever seen (who will be terrorizing the next campaign I run).

Thank you Celt Z!! These are all fabulous!

Dec 9, 2019#85

Celt Z

Yay! I'm so glad! I've been having issues with state-side deliveries, so I was starting to worry it was going to effect your gift! I guess all that doomie bribing paid off.

Dec 9, 2019#86

PatrThom

Celt Z said:
I guess all that doomie bribing paid off.

Why grease a doomie's palm when you can grease the entire doomie? You'll be amazed how much more effective they become.

--Patrick

Dec 9, 2019#87

Anonymous

I promise I will send out your gift this weekend @Dei .

Waiting to get paid before I can.

Dec 9, 2019#88

Sparhawk

I found a package in my mailbox today, as promised!

Inside the mailer is another envelope! Groot helped me keep it in place.

A sleeve with 4 prints inside!

They are from Brian Rubenacker Studios and look great!

No note inside to go with it, so thank you very much Secret Santa! These are great!

Dec 9, 2019#89

PatrThom

Whut...hey, I used to live practically next door to there!

--Patrick

Dec 10, 2019#90

Anonymous

@evilmike I shipped out your gift today. Should be there by Monday if all goes well.

Dec 10, 2019#91

Bubble181

Thanks @Wahad for the second part of my gift! This bit isn't broken

I've tried attaching a picture a few times now but it's an exercise in frustration right now, so people will have to imagine it, but I do really look forward to reading Stardust, by Neil Gaiman :thumbsup:

Thanks a lot!

Oh hey, it worked! Whoop!

Dec 10, 2019#92

Dave

My god those pictures are amazing. Simply amazing!

Dec 11, 2019#93

PatrThom

Rescued from the latest forum hiccup:

Bubble181 said:
Thanks @Wahad for the second part of my gift! This bit isn't broken

Tress said:
A few days ago (sorry for the delay) I got this pair of books:

[Picture of Last Boat out of Shanghai, and An American Adventure]

Thank you very much... someone? I read the note but didn’t see a name. Whomever you are, thank you!

Anonymous said:
Have you received the other package as well? One of the notes should give a fairly big hint.

Tress said:
No, this is it.

But! There are some packages downstairs with my name on it I wasn’t opening, because my mom also sent me some packages and is a stickler for tradition - she wanted me to wait until Xmas. So maybe I have it and I don’t know it? I’ll check later today when I’m home.

Dec 12, 2019#94

Tress

Dear Anonymous,

I have not received a third package. This is not a complaint, mind you. I'm not bothered. I just wanted to let you know, since apparently something else should have arrived. I would hate to think you paid for something to be sent and nothing happened.

Dec 13, 2019#95

Secret Satan

@jwhouk -- Your package should materialize on Thursday the 19th.

Dec 13, 2019#96

Anonymous

@Tinwhistler be on the alert!
Your gift’s tracking info now states “Loaded onto delivery vehicle.”

Dec 13, 2019#97

Anonymous

Psst. @Far, if I'm reading it correctly, your order is ready to be picked up.

Dec 13, 2019#98

Anonymous

@Dave the USPS is telling me that your package should arrive Monday, but I'll keep an eye on it and update if there is a change.

Dec 13, 2019#99

GasBandit

The second package came today, so here we go!

Well isn't that nice. and I have just the right sized gap in some other such things on the wall in which to put it!

And I also got this... wait, you can "brainstorm" wrong? (I had to google and watch an episode of LRR:Friday Nights to understand this reference)

Thanks, Secret Santa!

Dec 13, 2019#100

Dirona

GasBandit said:
The second package came today, so here we go!

View attachment 32544

Well isn't that nice. and I have just the right sized gap in some other such things on the wall in which to put it!

View attachment 32545

And I also got this... wait, you can "brainstorm" wrong? (I had to google and watch an episode of LRR:Friday Nights to understand this reference)

View attachment 32546

Thanks, Secret Santa!

YAY!!!!! I'm glad everything arrived.

Dec 13, 2019#101

Far

Anonymous said:
Psst. @Far, if I'm reading it correctly, your order is ready to be picked up.

Sarah grabbed it today!

I'm not quite home yet but will update when I am and have opened it.

Dec 13, 2019#102

GasBandit

Dirona said:
YAY!!!!! I'm glad everything arrived.

Nibbles says thanks, too.

Dec 14, 2019#103

Far

What!?

WHAT!?

You have no idea how much this means to me. I have wanted this set for years. I actually teared up opening it once I realized what it was.

Unless I missed it, there was nothing saying who had sent this but honestly, from the bottom of my heart, thank you. This is the most thoughtful gift I've received in years.

With my Hobbes!

Dec 14, 2019#104

ThatNickGuy

Far said:
What!?

WHAT!?

View attachment 32555 View attachment 32556

You have no idea how much this means to me. I have wanted this set for years. I actually teared up opening it once I realized what it was.

Unless I missed it, there was nothing saying who had sent this but honestly, from the bottom of my heart, thank you. This is the most thoughtful gift I've received in years.

With my Hobbes!

View attachment 32557

Whoops, I thought I put my name on the note somewhere. My bad. But this is exactly the reaction I was hoping for.

(Also, for the record, this was below the $50 limit. It was on sale with a handsome discount, plus I got an additional discount for being a Chapters Rewards member.)

Dec 14, 2019#105

Tinwhistler

Anonymous said:
@Tinwhistler be on the alert!
Your gift’s tracking info now states “Loaded onto delivery vehicle.”

So yesterday, when I got home, there was a delivery notice on my front door. These are usually used for signature required packages and overseas packages.

I didn't get any other deliveries beyond regular mail, so I thought that might be it. I just picked it up. It was an overseas package from Dublin.

It's a tinwhistle...a brand I've never owned, from a maker I've heard of, but never corresponded with. Is that the gift? There was no note inside and no indication of why they would be sending me a whistle. No invoice. No nothing. Just a business card from the maker and a whistle.

If you didn't send me a whistle, I have a lot of puzzling over to figure out this unexpected Christmas miracle. What makes this doubly puzzling is they put a phone number on the package, for a phone # I haven't used in 7 years.

Dec 14, 2019#106

Anonymous

Hey, @Dei! If someone were to buy you an article of clothing like a shirt, what size should it be? If you don't want to post it publicly, send Gas an IM and he'll tell me. I'm ordering your gift today (so very sorry it's so late!)

Dec 14, 2019#107

Dei

Anonymous said:
Hey, @Dei! If someone were to buy you an article of clothing like a shirt, what size should it be? If you don't want to post it publicly, send Gas an IM and he'll tell me. I'm ordering your gift today (so very sorry it's so late!)

I think I put it in my secret Santa note, but likely a large.

Dec 14, 2019#108

Anonymous

Dei said:
I think I put it in my secret Santa note, but likely a large.

I came here to lead, not to read.

Dec 14, 2019#109

PatrThom

Tinwhistler said:
It's a tinwhistle...a brand I've never owned, from a maker I've heard of, but never corresponded with. Is that the gift?

Yes! And that was kind of the idea! (one you've never owned, that is)

Tinwhistler said:
What makes this doubly puzzling is they put a phone number on the package, for a phone # I haven't used in 7 years.

The shipper required a phone number, so I had to do some sleuthing to put something in there that at least had a chance of being right.

It goes something like this: I wanted to get you a(nother) whistle. I also wanted to make a bunch of innuendo-laden SS posts about how your present would be stiff and fingerable and “the D” etc. etc. but in the end decided eh, heck with that. Some YouTube sleuthing led me to the Killarney brass soprano D whistle as one with great sound and character, and I found an absolutely spectacular deal on one after checking to make sure it was not in the photo of your whistle collection. I was literally sitting with one in my cart when I stumbled over your anniversary pic and a video showing you already had one. Aaigh! So I had to go find a different one that was of similar character and that wasn't in any of your pics. It was a few (... dozen) dollars more than the Killarney, but... eh, by that point I was committed.

So...pictures? Performance, even?

--Patrick

Dec 14, 2019#110

PatrThom

Oh, and I had asked them to include a note if they could, but I guess they didn’t. It was supposed to say, “Never too many whistles!”

—Patrick

Dec 14, 2019#111

Tinwhistler

PatrThom said:
Yes!

The shipper required a phone number, so I had to do some sleuthing to put something in there that at least had a chance of being right.

It goes something like this: I wanted to get you a(nother) whistle. I also wanted to make a bunch of innuendo-laden SS posts about how your present would be stiff and fingerable etc. etc. but in the end decided eh, heck with that. Some YouTube sleuthing led me to the Killarney brass soprano D whistle as one with great sound and character, and I found an absolutely spectacular deal on one after checking to make sure it was not in the photo of your whistle collection. I was literally sitting with one in my cart when I stumbled over your anniversary pic and video showing you already had one. Aaigh! So I had to go find a different one that was of similar character and that wasn't in any of your pics. It was a (few... dozen) dollars more than the Killarney, but... eh, by that point I was committed.

So...pictures? Performance, even?

--Patrick

Awesome! Thank you so much! I was puzzling over whether it was a brand sample, or a gift from one of the ladies with my name on it accidentally, or what. You spent way too much on me, my man, but it's totally appreciated!

Here's a pic of the whistle (and whaddya know? uploading worked fine for me today. It's a Christmas Miracle!)

And a vid...

Thank you so much!

Dec 14, 2019#112

Far

ThatNickGuy said:
Whoops, I thought I put my name on the note somewhere. My bad. But this is exactly the reaction I was hoping for.

(Also, for the record, this was below the $50 limit. It was on sale with a handsome discount, plus I got an additional discount for being a Chapters Rewards member.)

Oh thank god. I know how much it is normally, part of why I've never got it for myself, so I was really taken back when I opened it. Thanks again!

Dec 14, 2019#113

Emrys

I have checked my list twice and it looks like everyone has sent to their ~~victim~~ Secret Santa, so I have ordered the doomweasels to stand down.

Dec 14, 2019#114

DarkAudit

Emrys said:
so I have ordered the doomweasels to stand down.

Darn.

Dec 14, 2019#115

evilmike

Emrys said:
I have checked my list twice and it looks like everyone has sent to their ~~victim~~ Secret Santa, so I have ordered the doomweasels to stand down.

If we're supposed to be sending stuff to our Secret Santa, I've been doing this wrong.

Dec 15, 2019#116

Bubble181

Emrys said:
I have checked my list twice and it looks like everyone has sent to their ~~victim~~ Secret Santa, so I have ordered the doomweasels to stand down.

Sorry to disappoint.

Dec 15, 2019#117

Emrys

DarkAudit said:
Darn.

I can stand them back up for you.

Dec 15, 2019#118

Emrys

evilmike said:
If we're supposed to be sending stuff to our Secret Santa, I've been doing this wrong.

Hush, you, or you'll be getting doomweasel poo in your stocking.

Dec 15, 2019#119

DarkAudit

Emrys said:
I can stand them back up for you.

A little backup couldn't hurt some nights.

Dec 15, 2019#120

Anonymous

Hey @Tress , according to Amazon the third part of your gift should've arrived by now. :thumbsup:

Dec 15, 2019#121

Anonymous

@Dave the USPS is still saying that the package is in transit and on time, even with the snow all around the area. Still saying tomorrow for delivery.

Dec 15, 2019#122

Tress

Anonymous said:
Hey @Tress , according to Amazon the third part of your gift should've arrived by now.

Indeed! Now I have a trio of interesting books to read during my upcoming winter vacation. Thanks @Bubble181!

Dec 15, 2019#123

Bubble181

Tress said:
Indeed! Now I have a trio of interesting books to read during my upcoming winter vacation. Thanks @Bubble181!

View attachment 32562 View attachment 32563

I personally quite enjoyed Stalingrad (though, of course, it's a pretty detailed high-level description of one of the bloodiest battles in modern history). It's a good read.
I've heard really good things from friends about Last Boat out of Shanghai, though I haven't read it myself. An American Adventure was a pure gamble.
Hope you find them interesting/educational/fun!

Dec 15, 2019#124

PatrThom

Hey, look! There's still a chance for me not to be last this year. Onward!

A package arrived!
...It was just one of those white plastic postal bags, so I don't have the usual unboxing sequence, sorry.
But the contents certainly look like they're not from around these parts:

That second shirt makes it kinda obvious who my secret Santa probably was. I'll leave why as an exercise for the viewer.
They will join my other gifted T-shirts:

(Not pictured: "Glass Spider" and "Against the Wind" concert shirts, a shirt promoting the movie Housesitter: The Night They Saved Sigfried's Brain, and one promoting Hot Damn! schnapps, and a black T-shirt from my nephew which just has "No I will NOT fix your computer!" written on it in white letters -- because I couldn't find them in time for the photo)

--Patrick

Dec 15, 2019#125

jwhouk

Glad you liked them! And what EVER could have given it away as to who your SS was?

Dec 15, 2019#126

PatrThom

jwhouk said:
Glad you liked them! And what EVER could have given it away as to who your SS was?

Just playing the odds.

Also, sorry for blowing the photos out like that. I tried to compensate for indoor lighting, but that IBM shirt ended up brighter than even Billy Mays could hope for.

--Patrick

Dec 16, 2019#127

jwhouk

jwhouk said:
Not sure if my SS is still getting stumped for gifts, but a few ideas:

And - believe it or not - I wouldn't mind having a great NASA t-shirt.

Ask, and ye shall receive:

Thank you to @evilmike for the Shirt!

Dec 16, 2019#128

evilmike

jwhouk said:
Ask, and ye shall receive:

View attachment 32576

Thank you to @evilmike for the Shirt!

You are most welcome. After all, the shirt actually fills two of your requests at the same time.

There is something else headed your way that you should expect by Friday.

Dec 17, 2019#129

Dave

Got my package last night. No grand unboxing, though, as the wife got to it first. And frankly, I'm surprised she didn't tuck in as these are her favorites!

Candy from the great state of Texas! Thanks, Santa!

Dec 17, 2019#130

Anonymous

@evilmike It looks like your shipment was delayed. Tracking number currently has it for Saturday the 21st now. Sorry for the delays. Hoping it arrives in time.

Dec 18, 2019#131

Wahad

Anonymous said:
Dear @Wahad,
Your secret Santa regrets to say that part of your gift will be late due to delays from a merchant - probably until shortly after Christmas. The rest of your gifts are on their way!

Hi Santa! Have you any ETA on the "regular" timed gifts? I haven't seen anything show up yet, but maybe I'm just being impatient.

Dec 19, 2019#132

Anonymous

Wahad said:
Hi Santa! Have you any ETA on the "regular" timed gifts? I haven't seen anything show up yet, but maybe I'm just being impatient.

Hi Wahad,

Your package, all together, is expected to arrive on Dec. 23rd. Sorry for the late info, but everything that could go wrong went wrong when I was getting this out to you. But it’s all good now!

A doom weasel will be providing you with a tracking number shortly.

Dec 19, 2019#133

jwhouk

Got the rest of the Secret Santa package from @evilmike... FOUR prints of launches AND a Shuttle 747 plane photo! Thanks much!

Will post pics when available.

Dec 21, 2019#134

evilmike

Thank you, Santa! Wonderful choice!

Dec 21, 2019#135

Anonymous

evilmike said:
Thank you, Santa! Wonderful choice!

View attachment 32604

I'm sorry I couldn't wrap it better and didn't have time to write a note. Been so rushed lately and wanted to make sure you got it in time! Glad you like it!

Dec 24, 2019#136

Wahad

Despite my impatience, Santa @Tress delivered in spades! The honey in particular is awesomely timed coz I needed some for my christmas dessert. Thanks!

Jan 7, 2020#137

Dei

At this point, I still have not received anything, so I figured I should check in.

Jan 8, 2020#138

PatrThom

Hey @jwhouk these shirts are REALLY soft. Like, indecently so.
Is that an AZ thing or is the place you got them just in the habit of using ridiculously soft shirts?

--Patrick

Jan 8, 2020#139

jwhouk

Honestly... just ordered them off Amazon, if memory serves.

Jan 8, 2020#140

Bubble181

PatrThom said:
Hey @jwhouk these shirts are REALLY soft. Like, indecently so.
Is that an AZ thing or is the place you got them just in the habit of using ridiculously soft shirts?

--Patrick

You accidentally received something from the Womens Garb department instead of the Mens. Cherish it.

Jan 8, 2020#141

Dave

Dei said:
At this point, I still have not received anything, so I figured I should check in.

I'd like to apologize for this. I'm your not-so-secret Santa. I ordered your item on December 17 and it was SUPPOSED to be there before Christmas. The Amazon account we use is under my wife's name so any emails go to her. She obviously didn't tell me if she received anything because when I look at orders I now see this:

I am SO SORRY. I was waiting to see when you opened it but never checked the tracking. I just assumed it was already there.

Jan 8, 2020#142

evilmike

You know what this means @Dave

Jan 8, 2020#143

Dave

Send them scampering fucks to coeasy because this one ain't on me, man.

Jan 8, 2020#144

Emrys

evilmike said:
You know what this means @Dave

View attachment 32656

You are so correct.

Jan 8, 2020#145

Emrys

Dave said:
Send them scampering fucks to coeasy because this one ain't on me, man.

How about I just put you in the corner instead?

Jan 8, 2020#146

Dave

Wouldn't Gas get jealous?

Jan 8, 2020#147

Emrys

Dave said:
Wouldn't Gas get jealous?

I'm not joining you in the corner. That's @Bubble181's position.

Jan 8, 2020#148

Bubble181

Emrys said:
I'm not joining you in the corner. That's @Bubble181's position.

Hey, when you've been in the corner as long as I have, you're not picky anymore. Even flappy hooties will do.

Jan 8, 2020#149

Dave

Jan 8, 2020#150

PatrThom

Dave said:
View attachment 32659

You know, if this were animated, well...

--Patrick

Jan 9, 2020#151

Dei

@Dave the reason it took so long is that it was shipped from Singapore.

Jan 9, 2020#152

Dave

Dei said:
@Dave the reason it took so long is that it was shipped from Singapore.

Yeah but they gave one date and then changed it. And I looked through my wife's emails so either they didn't send an email or she deleted it. But I doubt she deleted it. She doesn't delete anything.

Feb 13, 2020#153

Dave

So does this mean you got it?

Feb 13, 2020#154

Dei

Dave said:
So does this mean you got it?

Yes, and then my daughter stole it.

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Secret Santa 2019 - now with more DoomWeasels!

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