Secret Santa in July?

[Elvira]

What does everyone think about doing a secret santa for Christmas in July? Since Christmas is so busy, and with all the gifts that we need to buy, I thought doing a secret santa in July might be fun. And... still have alot of time to shop/create.

We could do it differently each yr.

For example...this July.. the gift must be between 10-15.00 and must be homemade. So for instance an ornament, wreath...or what have you. Since there is so many creative ppl on this forum, this could be fun.

Or... we could just go out looking for something that could be used for christmas.

OR..... we could do a recycle type thing, where your item must be in good clean condition, sort of a re-gift thing.

If enough are interested... maybe a poll could be started, or someone could take it upon themselves to gather the names of those interested, and pair them up.

Just a thought.... I know I would be interested.

Any thoughts on this?

[digbugsgirl]

I like that idea!

[Sickie Ickie]

count me in for the homemade thang. :)

[bethene]

I think it is a great idea, I like the homemade thing! Oh, what fun!! Count me in!

[Mr. Christmas]

Sounds Great! I am also doing the Secret Reaper on www.hallowenforum.com!

[larry]

This is a great idea.

As with HalloweenForum, I will step back and let the membership handle this one...however I do predict some really great stuff coming our way later in the year.:)

[putrid]

WOW who could pass up making $15 worth of those tampon crafts Sickie Ickie found!! Count me in!

[Sickie Ickie]

LMAO! I'm glad they are useful for you Putrid. :p

[putrid]

Not for me Sickie Ickie. For who ever is lucky enough to get me as there secret Santa! LOL

[Sickie Ickie]

:twisted: correction noted. LOL

[putrid]

LOL Just having some fun with it. But it would be funny to throw a few of them in for kicks. Wonder how much trouble I'd get in if I made some homemade ornaments for the department Christmas tree next year? LOL

Looking forward to participating in this. You can make some really good stuff for between 15 and 20 bucks. Or just send underware. Nothing says 'It came from the heart' like a new bag of underware. LOL

[Elvira]

Well.... I laughed at the bag of underware thing (I see a connection between the underware and tampax. *squints*).. but THEN it got me thinking (ya ya I know ya smelled something burnin) BUT... we could also consider that.... gag gifts that are useful. Now.... if everyone could post what they would like the theme to be.. and is there any takers on who wants to organize? I can do it, if there is no interest, or time doesn't permit.

Now to select a theme...pls put in the dollar amounts as well, so no one is confused as to what the gift should be.
I'll start it out...........

I vote .....

homemade between 15-20.00 (this can consist of 1 or more gifts for a total of 20.00 max)

[Sickie Ickie]

15-20 is a good limit. not that many people have more money than that to spend in this economy. :)

[bethene]

Sounds good to me!!

[putrid]

Never had home made underwear before. LOL

15 to 20 and home made sounds good to me.
I know it's a bit of a drag but what about forum participation and eligability?

[digbugsgirl]

15-20 sounds good to me, too.

[Sickie Ickie]

...I know it's a bit of a drag but what about forum participation and eligability?

Well, I certainly hope the forum participates and I'm married. :p

[putrid]

LMAO Sickie Ickie.

[Elvira]

Never had home made underwear before. LOL


:eek: You don't want me to make your underware. Hot glue sticks anyone? lol However, I do have my craft in mind already :D and no its not underware. lol

Ok... lets try to get everyones name thats interested by April 28th, and then have the pairings by the 30th. This way we have a full 2 months to build and create.

So far:

Sickie Ickie
bethene
Mr. Christmas
larry
putrid
digbugsgirl
Elvira

we need more....c'mon members, we know theres more creative ppl out here.

[bethene]

I put a thread up on halloweenforum, , "attention christmas fan club members"- and told them to check this out, but doesn't look like many did. No one replied there anyway.

[Sickie Ickie]

yeah...too bad Christmas building has such a bad preconception amongst Halloween members.

[bethene]

I don't really know why either, there is room for both in life. It would be nice if a few more signed up, make it more interesting!

[Sickie Ickie]

I'm with you. The way i figure both involve making props and creating moods/scenes.

Unfortunately building large Christmas props are few and far in-between. We are creating a small revolution here on this list to remedy that, and I created SantasProjects.com which everyone here helps submit to in order to have a monster list of Christmas props to build.

[putrid]

Guess it goes back to the observation said earlier. That there's more props how-to's for Halloween than there is for Christmas with any real craftsmanship involved. The big thing in Christmas right now is the bigger is better lights display. Unfortunately that hobby is out of reach for most folks. And to be honest there's nothing to discuss about buying things off the shelves this time of year. 'Curby's, yardsales and auctions are the only thing going for found or perchased items till July. That's when some stores start to put out Christmas craft stuff. Sure we're a small group. But look at the bright side. Nobody's gotten kicked off the forum yet. LOL

[Sickie Ickie]

Amen, brother! LOL

[bethene]

True putrid, true. But, outside of large displays, alot of people do christmas crafts of some kind, either for gifts or for there own use. I guess I hoped that even though the big push is on for halloween, some of the other forum members would still join in, just for fun. Hopefully more still will. How long is sign up yet?

[Sickie Ickie]

yes, how long people? Have the names been drawn yet? :p

[Elvira]

Hi kids! :D Happy Monday Everyone!

I thought maybe we should give it until April 28th to get more ppl involved, and then have the pairings done by April 30th? And if, this is all we have for participation, then its their loss. We can still have fun with it. Regardless of the amount of ppl involved, I am still going to have fun with it. :) (or....we could pimp out sickie and have him solicite forums LOL) I'm teasing sickie! or am I? *squint*

I already have my craft planned, and amazingly enough, the stuff I need is easy to acquire all year round, so I'm pretty excited to get going on it.

In the meantime, I think bethene needs to grab ppl by their ear and get them in here LOL

[bethene]

well, I will give it another try,post it on halloween forum again, maybe pm a few folks? If they don't want to, then that's ok, but at least they know about it!
I am still thinking of my craft, I have a couple of things in mind, but haven't decided for sure yet.

[Sickie Ickie]

Do people have to have 30 posts or anything before they join this Secret Santa?

[putrid]

Sickie Ickie, that's kinda what I was thinking about earlier. How many or how long should a forum member contribute before being a secret Santa. Everyone on the list so far has contributed a lot to the forum. But there's only 7 names. Kinda hard to pair up. I'll volunteer to be the odd man out. That way everybody can send me something!!! JK LOL

What about other formalities?
Would shipping be included in the total price of the object?
For those who may not be 'crafty' can a purchased item be substituted?
Food items like jars of 'you bake' gifts and or fruit? These items cant be shipped accross a border. Should they be allowed at all?

Those are the only ones I can think of at the moment.

[Sickie Ickie]

Good questions Putrid! Some guidelines should be placed so everyone is on the same page.

[putrid]

Thanks Sickie Ickie. I like the idea of me being the odd man out and everyone sending me something too. JK LOL

[Elvira]

Hi everyone....

I actually have an idea for the odd man out thing. Since, I decided to start this whole thing, I thought I would be the odd one out. Meaning, that I would build a craft, draw a secret name, and send it off, but not have something sent in return, so, basically one lucky person would get 2 gifts. (a double secret santa) That person wouldn't know they would be getting 2 gifts, so that might be kind of fun wondering if you're the one that gets it. I don't mind doing that, we used to run a german shepherd forum and we had several contests, giveaways etc, so kind of used to not receiving, and I am perfectly fine with it. Really, it was all about the members and having fun. So that odd man out thing, I am not concerned about at all. 30 posts is a good idea, however, if I needed 30 posts I probably could post a ton of "junk" just to qualify. I think we're just going to have to use our better judgement on that one. I have yet to have a problem getting anything across the border, fairly easy as long as you play according to their rules. (which I might add, really aren't that strict).

To answer putrids questions, the craft would not include shipping. I don't imagine anyone is going to build something thats extremely large, and would cost a fortune to ship. Also, for the craft, we should try to stay away from anything that is edible. We're basically looking at a craft that is a decoration. Ex: wreath, christmas tree decoration, tree topper, table center piece, table runner, x-mas stocking customized, these are just a few examples, theres a ton more ... something homemade that can be displayed at christmas time. I hope this helps.

Thank you bethene for doing all you can to get people involved :) and yes, if they want to participate thats fine, if they don't then, thats ok too. We won't force anyone, this is just a chance to share our talents, and have fun doing it. As for things that aren't christmas related, or for people who lack talent, (although there is alot of tutorials out there for simple crafts that have detailed how-tos) something can be purchased, but I think we should try to keep it christmasy. I know we have a store thats all christmas stuff locally and opened all year round, tons of the coolest stuff there.

Anyhow, its going to be alot of fun, regardless if we have 7 or 27 :)

[Elvira]

Ok... I need everyone on the list to post their favorite color. (this will help the secret santa select a color for their elf, as some like to coordinate etc)

[digbugsgirl]

I don't have a favorite color, per se. If I had to, though, I'd pick blue....or green....no, blue.

[bethene]

I'd have to say purple. Pm'd a few people, will get to more before the week end is done, Blinky sounds interested, Ms. wicked is moving, and wants to bow out. I also put a little add on to my post on off topic on HF. So we will see, like you said, we'll have fun no matter how many!

[lacey38655]

I would like to be counted in. New here, not new to Halloween forum...

[putrid]

Elvira, I wont hear of it. If your the odd man out I'll send you something. ( bag of socks? not quite underwear but still counts. JK LOL ) We'll have to see how many folks want to participate before deciding if this is even necessary.

I'd be easier to say what color I don't like. That'd be brown. I was at an auction a year or so ago and there were 6 or 7 large rolls of left over fabric. The color pallet went from a light brown to a deep burnt brown. Told the guy I was talking to.

"can you imagine all that brown? Everything brown? Be like living in a giant colen. You could sit in there and wait for the walls to come in and squeeze all the furniture into the next room."

Someone bid on all of it. Got it real cheap. Guess the colen look is in. Wonder if they have a door that has a sign that reads ' exit only'. LOL

[putrid]

Wow Lacey38655, you got your post in seconds before I did.

[lacey38655]

Um favorite color is red. Thanks for letting me jump in here. I am pretty crafty and love secret santas....

[Elvira]

Elvira, I wont hear of it. If your the odd man out I'll send you something. ( bag of socks? not quite underwear but still counts. JK LOL ) We'll have to see how many folks want to participate before deciding if this is even necessary.


You won't hear of it? LOL Ok, want me to stuff your ears with cotton balls or are you gonna do it? :D Besides, I do love socks, I got the coolest pair of german shepherd socks for christmas I was sooooo excited.

I'm teasing you, but really, its no problem at all I don't mind doing it. I just enjoy giving and to me it doesn't matter if I get something in return. Who knows we might even throw a twist into it and whoever gets the double gift, has to host next yr. hehehe

[Elvira]

WOW who could pass up making $15 worth of those tampon crafts Sickie Ickie found!! Count me in!

OH! I hope I get the tampons! Can ya throw in a few rolls of toilet paper too! 3 girls in the house, you can only imagine my monthly toiletries bill! :D

Oh! wait, this is a craft!

[putrid]

OK, a few rolls for 3 girls. What's that, 15 minuets of toilet paper? JK LOL

Sorry about the odd post Lacey38655, I had just posted to tell Elvira she's getten underwear for Christmas and WALA we got an even number now. LOL

[Mummy deer-est]

Okay, but now I'm starting trouble...
I've been away, but I still want a piece of this action! Plus, I see it as good incentive to keep me checking up on you people! So, will you add me, even if I make it odd again?? I'll make two!!

[Sickie Ickie]

we're all odd here! LOL

[putrid]

Does these mean I have to start behaving again? LOL Well Mummy Deer-est, if your gona make two I'll make three! Those Tampons are cheap. JK LOL

Got plenty of time to get more folks involved.

[Elvira]

Sickie Ickie -
bethene - purple
Mr. Christmas -
larry -
putrid - anything EXCEPT brown.
digbugsgirl - blue
Elvira - red
lacey38655 - red
Mummy deer-est -

Wooo hooo... more participants! Welcome to the secret santa Mummy deer-est and lacey.

Heres an update of names.... some are still missing colors. Pls state a preferred color.

[Mistress Muffy]

Greetings, Greetings, Greetings & Merry Christmas to all my Buddies,

The candy kitchen here smells of freshly made trays of caramel that are cooling and will be ready to be dipped in kettles of smooth chocolate!! Well...whenever I get involved in something of this nature I ALWAYS send a big box of chocolates!! Altho July is a tough month to ship that stuff but I should have my coolers by then.

I'm not real crafty and here at the ranch we are hard at work not only on the coffin for the coffin contest over yonder in the Halloween Forum.......but we have been in the spirit and are working on several halloween projects as we speak. As usual I been sick and the candy orders have been pouring in. BUT how could I not be involved in this as I love you guys to death!

Thank You to Bethene for giving me a shout over there at Larry's other partyville and alerting me to this "Secret Santa" game! SO if I can find a Christmas store out here where I can make a special purchase.....COUNT ME IN!

For a color>>>anything goes with me!!

the Merry Muffster

[bethene]

Yea, Mummy and Muffy, so glad you are in!! Now where's that Blinky??!!

[Sickie Ickie]

My favorite color? hmmmmmm.

I know! Clear! :)

Plaid? :p j/k

Favoite color is bright green, which goes great with green and red Christmas colors! :D
)

[lacey38655]

You guys and girls are a mess, I love it, I feel right at home... Now where is brother john and cousin elle, and mother jane? Oh yeah over at that there wal mart....

[Nancj]

Ooo, Ooo, me too, I want in!!! is there still time?
this is a great idea Elvira!! just what the site needs during the slow months.
And since were taking request, My colour is red. I too am running low on tampons. and socks socks socks I love them!!! Just not sure about the glue stick underwear....What the heck I'm up for anything!
count me in.

[Mummy deer-est]

Ohhh, I can make those sock santas....but I'll give elvira a twenty under the table if she "happens" to pair me up with our love Mrs. Chocolate herself!

I'm good with blue, dark red (much like this forum color) and almost anything else.

[Elvira]

Welcome to secret santa Nancj :)

7 days and I will have the names paired. In the meantime if you all could pm me with your name and mailing address so I can forward it off to each person next monday.

Sickie Ickie - (clear, plaid, or green)
bethene - purple
Mr. Christmas -
larry -
putrid - anything EXCEPT brown.
digbugsgirl - blue
Elvira - red
lacey38655 - red
Mummy deer-est - blue or dark red
Nancj - red

Still missing Larry, and Mr.Christmas.... if anyone knows their whereabouts, can you pls have them post a color and bring in their name and address.

LOL@twenty under the table.... I love bribes!

I wished we would have thought about secret santa earlier, I would have bought another 5 ft singing santa and used that as my secret santa gift, I think I only paid 18 bucks for him, right under the 20 dollar mark! ugh! Shipping would have been killer, but so worth it, hes awesome. Oh well, theres always a great deal to be had, and will definitely keep secret santa in mind when shopping.

[Mistress Muffy]

oh oh Elvira......you forgot me on your list up there!!

the Merry Muffster

[Elvira]

I am sooooooo sorry Merry Muffster, old age must be setting in! UGH! I have you added now. Thanks for bringing that to my attention :) Need a color.... or did I miss that to? LOL Probably huh?

5 days.......

Sickie Ickie - (clear, plaid, or green)
bethene - purple
Mr. Christmas -
larry -
putrid - anything EXCEPT brown.
digbugsgirl - blue
Elvira - red
lacey38655 - red
Mummy deer-est - blue or dark red
Nancj - red
Merry Muffster -

[Elvira]

Updated...

Sickie Ickie - (clear, green) LOL sickie hates plaid! - Address submitted
bethene - purple - Address Submitted
Mr. Christmas -
larry -
putrid - anything EXCEPT brown.
digbugsgirl - blue - Address submitted
Elvira - red
lacey38655 - red - Address submitted
Mummy deer-est - blue or dark red - Address submitted
Nancj - red _ Address Submitted
Merry Muffster - any color will do - Address submitted

Thanks to you all for submitting this info so quickly, watch your pm box for your secret santa person.



Missing :

Putrid
Mr.Christmas
Larry

[Elvira]

Good afternoon everyone!

I think we can now close secret santa and do the pairings. Mr. Christmas and Larry haven't submitted their info, and haven't responded to this thread in a few weeks, so I think its safe to say they won't be participating.

The pairings are done, as is the double gift person. I am just waiting on one address. which is putrid's then we're good to go! :)

[Sickie Ickie]

C'mon Putrid! We be waitin'! :)

[bethene]

To make it easier, I also like blues and dark reds, if it helps any one, I am really not picky- I love all christmas!!

[Elvira]

Ok, since we're only waiting on putrid for an address, as soon as I get it I will send it off to the person who has him. Soooooo, everyone check your pm's you should find your secret santa info in there.

Keep us posted on the progress of your craft :)

[Elvira]

Ok, everyone should have their secret santa info now. If you have any questions and you can't post it because you will give away the identity of your "person" , feel free to pm me.

Happy crafting everyone!

[digbugsgirl]

I got my info!!! I'm excited about it!

[Nancj]

Woo-Hoo I got my info also!!! Now to wake up the elves and get them started on building a gift.

[Mummy deer-est]

Got it!
My gears are turning....gotta be crafty!

[Sickie Ickie]

yay! got mine, too!

[Mistress Muffy]

Yipee!!!!!!! Got mine too!!!

Muffy

[putrid]

I know who's getting homemade female hygiene Christmas ornaments. JK LOL ( try saying that three times fast. LOL). Already got ideas in my head. A chisel and hammer and I'll have em out soon enough.

[Elvira]

I know who's getting homemade female hygiene Christmas ornaments. JK LOL ( try saying that three times fast. LOL). Already got ideas in my head. A chisel and hammer and I'll have em out soon enough.

LOL some lucky person!!! Too funny!

[Nancj]

I hope its me!, I hope its me!, I hope its me!!!!
( fingers crossed )

[Mummy deer-est]

I think we could make an arguement to make tampon ornaments a required part of chirstmas for this group. Or use it as some sort of initiation into our fold.
Muahhahahahahahahaaaaa.....***this is my evil laugh***

[bethene]

Yeah, I am excited about this. Now, what to make, what to make, hmmm

[Elvira]

I went shopping yesterday and managed to find the main part of my project! Did not to bad considering its off season. Thank goodness for Michaels!

[bethene]

Yeah,I agree, Michaels is great. Although, I am fond of Hobby Lobby too- they get their christmas stuff in SO early, I love it! I am pretty much decided what to make for my secret santa, , Picking out supplies now!

[Sickie Ickie]

I don't know of a Hobby Lobby around here. Thank God for Dollar Tree! :D

[Nancj]

Micheals just sent out their 50% off coupons in this weeks fliers. so keep a look out for them! Now to steal the coupon from my neighbors fliers. Is that a federal offense?.....Hmmmmmm. Maybe I'll ask first.

[bethene]

I agree Sickie, dollar tree is great too, I get alot there!

[Elvira]

I managed to get most of my supplies, and can pretty much start constructing. Now that the weekend has come and gone, and my 21 yr old daughters den is completely renovated, thanks to her mom and dad, I can actually do something for myself. I don't think we're ever free of "mom and dad, can you help me with this?" which really means......... "mom and dad can you DO THIS for me" LOL kids!

LOL @ Nancj being the coupon caper! I don't think you would get arrested for hijacking flyers for coupons, but can you imagine the headines. "Coupon caper strikes again!"

[Elvira]

I started to build my project and had so much fun with it, I found myself laughing so hard I was in tears. (good thing no one was home) Its both humourous and cute, but I guess because of the mood I was in I found myself splitting a gut. NOW, I can't wait to send it out! LOL

[Mummy deer-est]

I think I missed the post that said what the deadline for this was....?
Just want to be timely!

[Elvira]

Everyones gift should be ready to ship for July 1st :) You have a ton of time, I am just having a blast and getting it done.

[Mummy deer-est]

Whew, girl, your makin' me nervous!!

[putrid]

You mean THIS July? JK LOL

[Elvira]

LOL Mummy, oooopss....sorry didn't mean to. I was just haviung a blast with it, I am far from done actually.

LOL putrid...yes this July! Mr.Organized! lol

[Nancj]

I need to get my @$$ in gear all I've bought so far was a head, A HEAD!! ooh wait, am I on the right forum this is the Hallow... oh no wait the head is for the Christmas in July. Ok, I'm ok, I will be done on time. Wont my secret santa person be surprised to find a head in a box!!! BooWaHahahahahaha!!! (or should it be BoowaHo-Ho-Ho) I'm so confused.

[Mummy deer-est]

you crack me up Nancj....I'd take a head!

[Sickie Ickie]

That's what I like. A little head. :idea:

[Mummy deer-est]

Oh, damn if that didn't just present itself....
only a man...
rofl!

[Sickie Ickie]

I prefer a woman *raspberry*

[Nancj]

LMAO!!! I don't even know what to say to that. :eek:

[Sickie Ickie]

Nothing, just smile and nod your "head". :p

[Mistress Muffy]

I guess I stopped in at the right time!!hehe

Muf

[Sickie Ickie]

Give us 15 minutes...it'll resume again. :p

[Elvira]

I got half of the first part of my gift assembled. YAY! Its coming along nicely. Just had to send DH on a mission to get me a piece that I have been having a hard time finding at this time of yr. Hopefully with a little luck he won't be gone half of the day. LOL wait, we're talking about a man, it WILL BE the whole day!

[bethene]

Wow, Elvira, you sure are a busy bee! I haven't gotten that far, am deciding yet between two things, thought I had decided but now am second guessing my self:confused:

[Sickie Ickie]

I'm waiting for a part to arrive in shipping. :)

[Nancj]

I'm waiting for someone to kick my @$$ so I can get started!

[Sickie Ickie]

turn around. :D

[putrid]

I'm waiting for July. LOL

[Mummy deer-est]

So Elivra is creating some sort of masterpiece that will be the size of an elephant from the sound of it. And the fact that some of you are started, let alone know what your doing really freaks me out!! I thought I had a great idea, but then I realized most of the materials would be recycled, so it wouldn't come too close to the minimum money amount. Back to the drawing board.....

[Elvira]

LOL @ "masterpiece" (makes me think of the board game).... well... you could say that. Oh my goodness, I can't stop laughing again. Definitely a fine piece of art. LOL
My neighbor was outside yesterday and asked me what I was up to, so I showed her, and she thought it was too cute! (she also had to snicker).

That part only cost me 10 bucks, now to make up the other 10.00. Hmm... what to build now?!

Update on DH's mission..... he came back with something that would work, however, I needed 5 of them, he only got 3! At first I was wondering if we had a counting problem, then I thought I would ask, and no, whew! no counting problem, that was all they had. So.... I guess I get to run out and try to find a few more.
Its amazing, something you think should be easy to find....Michaels doesn't even have it!

[Elvira]

Bethene, I know all about second guessing on what to build. I must have changed my mind 4 times now. Looking back now... I should have went with it. LOL I would have been closer to the 20.00 mark! LOL

[bethene]

I have a couple of ideas, but now have to decide colors, Man , lots of decisions!

[Sickie Ickie]

still waiting for my parts to arrive...

[putrid]

Still waiting for July. LOL

Got an idea where to start but a few details still has me stumped.

[Nancj]

still waiting for....

[Sickie Ickie]

yes??? .

[Nancj]

I forgot, I had already bent over and you kicked my @$$. time to get started I guess.

[Sickie Ickie]

Glad I could help with my small size 8 feet. :D

[Mistress Muffy]

God you guys are all work'in on projects & remember me????I'm the one that said I'd be in the secret santa thing if I could only buy something because I do make crafts for xmas but its usually real wreaths or big boxes of candy!!lol

I still do not know my way around this area very much But I do think that one of our candy accts. does handle year round xmas decorations...so thats where I'm headed next week. I don't get in the field too often as I work the kitchen part of the business & Jer is in the field doing sales. I'm clueless what I'm buying but I'm sure as soon as I see it I'll know it!!lol

the Muffster

[Mummy deer-est]

Don't feel bad, Muf....I might be purchasing something too! I just see each day of calendar getting more and more filled, and I'm like: how am I gonna get dinner on the table, let alone do anything for myself! So, we'll see where the days take me. But anything you get would be lovely, I'm sure.

[Sickie Ickie]

Yep. It's not about whether you make it or buy it, it's the knowledge that somebody cares. :)

Just got the e-mail that my parts have been sent priority now. yay

[Elvira]

My second part of my gift to make up the additional 10.00 the major part is store bought and tweaked to make it more personal and somewhat homemade. Its not complete by no means, but one step closer thats for sure! YAY, pretty soon I get to play with tape, ribbon, paper and bows.

[Mistress Muffy]

Yes Mummy I am excited about what I'll be purchasing and I know when I see it I will be like....."Oh ya...thats it!" and yes Sickie it is about caring. Its so much fun to think something will be coming in the mail and I have no idea what it is.

Plus with me I am always so grateful when people give me xmas decorations as gifts cause then every year I use them I think about those people when I put the decoration out and I really enjoy that.

Muf

[Sickie Ickie]

I'm also doing a secret reaper, so I'll be building both at once! LOL Now, just to make sure I send the right one to each place. :p

[bethene]

yeah, Sickie , I can just picture the face of your secret reaper as they open Christmas decorations!
I still am not totally decided, I am flip flopping between 2. But I also have one other idea that creeps in every so often, I have to buckle down and decide.
I too am doing a secret reaper, have part of that done, so at lest I am accompishing something!

[Nancj]

I'm also doing a secret reaper, so I'll be building both at once! LOL Now, just to make sure I send the right one to each place. :p

It'll be like Tim Burtons movie "The Nigthmare Before Christmas" oh how fun that would be! I double dog dare you!! :)

[Sickie Ickie]

Naaaaahhhh. I learned better from sticking my tongue to the flagpole.

[putrid]

I'm having a hard time getting everything up to the bottom of the limit. $15. I'm used to being cheep when I make stuff. Guess I'll have to use better materials instead of what I can find at Curbies. JK LOL

Wouldn't worry to much about not having the time to make things. Or even personalizing something premade. It's all good. Or just buy underwear. Underwear is always form the heart! LOL

I don't remember what show this was on but a character was buying someone a hand held viaticum cleaner as a gift. The cashier said something to the order of.
"Oh great. A gift that keeps on sucking."
I thought it was funny at the time because I happened to be buying my wife one.

[Sickie Ickie]

LOL Just stay cheap and add the number of gifts in the box. :)

[Sickie Ickie]

Hey! just an idea, but keep track of your progress making teh Christmas gift(s) and then submit the how-to to the SP site. :)

[Elvira]

OH! Good idea Sickie, I should have taken pics of the construction of my project, dang! Its very simple I suppose I could make another one.

[Sickie Ickie]

I'm not following my own rule for the Halloween one, but I will for the Christmas one.

[Mistress Muffy]

Sickie what Halloween group do you belong too?

Muf

[Sickie Ickie]

Hauntforum.com I love how friendly the people are and how open the talented folks are to share their ideas and crafts.

[putrid]

Hey! just an idea, but keep track of your progress making teh Christmas gift(s) and then submit the how-to to the SP site. :)

Totally cool idea Sickie Ickie. That might get my site up a few months before 2010. (at the rate it's going now anyway. LOL)

[Xmaslilly]

Hmm..Iv'e been busy with halloween stuff, I didn't see this thread at all (wahhh)
.I would have joined in ..
..oh well next yr.
Hope you all get cool stuff.

[Sickie Ickie]

Next year for sure, Lilly. :)

[Elvira]

Aww, sorry xmaslily, we'll send an elf looking for you next yr so you won't miss out.

[Elvira]

YAY! Today I officially finished off part A of my gift. I found the missing piece that Micheals didn't have, at wal-mart. I couldn't believe it, all that searching and good old wal-mart had it. (I was even pleasant to the greeters on my way out because I had found what I went in for) :D Part B is a cinch, I should have that completed by mid week and then the wrapping will begin, I am so excited, I am way ahead of xmas in july. (so unlike x-mas in Dec) LOL I guess, I am so excited because I will actually not be stressed out having to get it put together and mailed for the deadline. I'm usually always late. UGH! Dentist appt....late.... drs appt....late... dinner....late.... work.... late.. holy cow I'm late for everything.

[putrid]

Totally cool Elvira. For me I'm still coming up empty handed looking for two things. One I can change but the other plays an important part. The only place I haven't been to is Micheals. Now it's off to Ebay and hoping someone is selling at at least one.

[putrid]

Well what do you know. I got one coming. Not exactly what I was looking for. As with any project difference usually opens more possibilities. Now to get this thing started....LOL

[Elvira]

LOL putrid, now you got me so curious I neeeeeeeeed to know what it was you were looking for. Oh brother, I hate secrets!

[putrid]

Something white to hold something or help with something else. And that's all anyone's getting out of me. LOL

[bethene]

Every one is so on the ball with this, I am still thinking it through! I am trying to decide which project would fit the peson to whom it is going the best. Elvira, you sound like me, I am always late too! But hubby is early, so we drive each other crazy!!

[Elvira]

Putrid, thats hardly a clue! LOL Surely, you can do better than that!

bethene, I have to be the worst for being on time, everything is always last minute, and then I scamble and panic. I don't know why I do it to myself everytime, but I do. LOL I must be an adreneline junkie.

[putrid]

OK, try this Elvira. It's front isn't always it's front but it's back is always it's back. LOL Who ever gets it will have to tell ya what it is.

[Elvira]

OMG! Sounds like fruit of the loom mens underware! LOL

[Elvira]

Countdown to Christmas in July......

All gifts should be ready to ship in..... *drum roll*
.
..
...
....
.....
......
.......
........

36 days

[bethene]

Man, I need to get busy, first I need to decide what I am doing, I want it to be special!

[Sickie Ickie]

yellow snow snowmen!

[Nancj]

Ok I finally found what I was looking for on good ol' E-bay. so now the head wont be so crank-y about being in a box. (!?!) I'm trying hard to make it as Christmassy as posible but the Halloween roots keep tugging at me.

[Sickie Ickie]

Blood and slime are red and green, right?

[Mistress Muffy]

Our Halloween lunacy filters into everything we do!! Now remember we are suppose to be casting a spell on the xmas decorators that come in here to get them to love Halloween too!!

SSSHHHHH!!!! don't let them know!

Muf

[putrid]

Gathered what I have here together. Going to start on what I can do now. Hopefully get those parts made. Have to wait till the Ebay thing comes in to see how it's going to work with the rest of it. Already have had to make one mod to the original plan. What I wanted to do would have looked good but would of been unstable.

[Mistress Muffy]

I can't wait to see what you are making!!

muf

[Elvira]

Now the head won't be so crank-y hmmm... what could that be? Ugh! I have no clue!

[Sickie Ickie]

I like your new avatar, Elvira. :D

[Nancj]

Me too he's too cute!!

[Mistress Muffy]

Yes he was playing tricks on me for quite awhile.....I kept seeing something out of the corner of my eye.....its taken a few days to finally catch on that he winks!!

Muf

[Elvira]

:D thank you, doesn't he just make you smile?

[Elvira]

Ohhhhhhh I have a snipe set up on ebay for something to complete my secret santa gift! I am so excited, I want the auction to end now! LOL

[Sickie Ickie]

Elvira the hunter. :googly:

[Elvira]

:D that be me! I don't know which is worse sickie... your heart pounding just before entering a bid in the closing seconds or watching a snipe. LOL Both make me nuts!

[Mistress Muffy]

AAhhh Elvira.......you must bid like me......the last 30 seconds!!

Speaking of ebay I was so sad today.....my stuff finally arrived from the auctions as I had just contacted the gal to alert her that my stuff had still not arrived. Just as I sent the message here came the mail lady with this huge box. I got it inside and you could see something had happened to it. In opening it, the punchbowl and ladle to it were cracked in several big pieces. Apparently something very heavy was thrown on this box & just crushed it. I'm so lucky the lanturn didn't break. I emailed her right away to let her know it arrived and what was broke. I had insurance on it. By late this afternoon she had refunded my money for both the auction & the shipping. Its nice when you do business w/ people like that on ebay. I was sad cause that bowl was for my "Cadaver Cafe & Candykitchen".

Muf

[Elvira]

Yes Muffy, depending if I am bidding or sniping. If I don't want to lose an item I snipe it in the last 3 seconds! if its bidding, the best I can do is about 30 seconds.

Awww, so sorry Muffy, that really sucks when you wait forever for something and it arrives broken. Luckily, you had it insured and your seller was gracious enough to refund you rather than make you wait until she got the insurance. I've heard of alot of sellers who do that. Is there another punch bowl and ladle like it on ebay that you can bid on?

[Elvira]

Countdown to Christmas in July......

All gifts should be ready to ship in..... *drum roll*
.
..
...
....
.....
......
.......
........

30 days

[Mistress Muffy]

Elvira.......I been warned >>>>stay away from ebay!!!get it?$$$$$$$$lol

Muf

[Elvira]

Sometimes thats good advice LOL. I spend alot on ebay. Those kitchenaid pro line small appliances are just sooooooo nice! I had to have them, tad expensive, but DH is a gadget king, so that went over easily.

[putrid]

OK the box from Ebay has arrived. The item is better than expected and will stand out amongst the items it'll be with. That's what I was hoping for. However I will have to re think the part this item will play in the overall project. It has an unforeseen flaw that actually makes it look better. It's place will have to be re positioned to capitalize on it's appearance. Now I have to size everything up and get this thing going or it'll be next July before I'm done. LOL

Total bummer Mistress Muffy. But totally cool the seller made things right. That's what I like about Ebay. Folks are generally good and it shows.

[Elvira]

So whats the item Putrid? hehehe

[putrid]

Well it's not underwear. LOL I'll tell all after the forum member gets it in July. This July or the next. JK LOL

[Sickie Ickie]

I'm done with my secret reaper project. So much more I want to do, but isn't that always the way? oh well. It'll be nice, and it will be up to the receiver to personalize it.

Soon, on to the Secret Santa! :D

[Elvira]

Ohhhhh! Sickie, you can tell me what you made for secret reaper as I am not participating in that one. I can keep a secret! I promise! :D

[Sickie Ickie]

Give me about three days until my victim gets it. Then I'll be glad to share it. LOL I'll have to rely on my victim to take pics though, as I didn't take any myself.

I'll be documenting the progress of the Secret Santa gift though. Then post the project on the SP site.

[putrid]

I got my pics of bits of progress too. Probably use this sites photo album and a thread to do a how to on it. Or what ever part of it I get done and shipped by July. LOL

[Elvira]

attach a card, "this gift was left unfinished intentionally so you can add your own personal touch" no one will ever know that you're really a slacker! lol

[putrid]

Or I could send it in pieces and include a note saying the instructions will come at a later date. It'd take me longer to write the instructions than it would to make it. LOL

[Sickie Ickie]

Kinda like splatter pop-art!

[Mummy deer-est]

Well if all I have to do to finish this is send random pieces of "stuff" then count me in!

*Sulking, b/c I still have no clue and don't want to disapoint anyone!*

[Nancj]

Oh my gosh your not alone!! I have an idea and some of the parts that I need. I just need to find the time to work on it. I don't doubt I'll send it out in time (fingers crossed)I just hope it looks like I invision it. My husband says that my imagination is bigger then my projects can handle! I can't figure if thats good or bad. I'm afraid to ask :)
The important thing is that a lot of heart will go into the gift (just you remember thar my little gift reciever!!!) :D

[Elvira]

I think having a big imagination is great (when someone else is doing the work) LOL

[putrid]

Well now there ya go. Send a note with it telling the recipient..
"Use your imagination".
JK LOL

Shouldn't sweat it. If it doesn't come out looking the way you thought you'd be the only one who knows.

[Elvira]

Nope, don't sweat it. Just have fun with it. I started with, well... I can't say right now what that was because it would totally give it away, but... with something very simple, and then it led into the next part. Then after I built the next part, I thought of another thing that would go with it, so it was off to ebay and I got that too. Needless to say, I am not quite at the 20.00 mark, getting close tho... 13.00 wooo hoo!

[Mistress Muffy]

Well I had Jer ask some of our accts. Mon. when he delivered candy up north if there was a Xmas store anywhere up there in Winston-Salem. They said no so this week or the beginning of next week we should be off to Charlotte. I'm gonna get online here & see what they have in stores down there. Its hard shopping for xmas decorations in June.

Muf

[bethene]

Well, my secret reaper gift is finshed and mailed, so now to concentrate on the secret santa. I still am not quite sure, over the years I have made alot of christmas things, I have been inventory-ing my brain, trying to remember them all.Now, hmmm, do I make one biger single gift, or several smaller, I need to figure it out soon!!Seeing as I am going camping on the 27th of June for 9 days, have to get it mailed by then!!
I am just always worried the recipient will be disapointed, like now am worrying about the reaper gift, will it measure up, will they like it or wish they never signed up!! AGGGGG!!

[Elvira]

Awww, I bet your reaper gift is awesome bethene! But, I do know that feeling, I used to worry, but.. now, its "I did the best I could, and I can only hope they love it" Thats all! :) anddddd if they don't...I hope to god they don't tell me! LOL

[Elvira]

When does your reaper gifts have to be mailed out and recieved by? I can't wait to hear what everyone got!

[Sickie Ickie]

e should have a sticky for a single post that says all the rules and deadline...

[Mistress Muffy]

Oh No Bethene......don't feel that way...this is suppose to be fun for all of us!! I can only speak for myself but I'm sure we all agree.......getting a surprise gift like this from someone is always such a treat! How could you possibly be disappointed.

Some of the most special things I unpack at xmas are the ones someone made for me and the memories that go along with those gifts. I almost feel guilty at buying something to send & not making it for our little Secret Santa. Wish I could send candy...that comes straight from my heart and is all home-made. I never worry when I'm sending someone chocolates as I know they will bring a big smile to the receiver!

Muf

[Sickie Ickie]

I've received and lost things people have given me over the years, but the thought is there forever!

[Mistress Muffy]

I agree Sickie! I even hang on to things someone made me & they are falling apart!

Muf

[putrid]

I'm with ya'll on this as well. There's nothing like something someone's made for you. Home made stuff has always been the best gifts.

[bethene]

well, that makes me feel some better, I guess I just have self esteem issues!
But I have pretty much decided and am searchign for things to do project now, so it's on!!

[Elvira]

Good luck bethene, I know whatever you make will turn out great! :) So what is it? LOL

[bethene]

I'll never tell! It's a secret! The only thing I will say is I am still in the hunt for one thing- can find smaller ones, but not the size :) I am looking for, drat!

[Elvira]

I know that feeling, hunting for something that should be easy to find and thinking michaels should have it. Only to get there and they don't. They put all their xmas stuff away in the off season, which really sucks! I managed to find it at wal-mart, because they do keep some xmas craft stuff out. I really got lucky. I guess its a good time for a count down :)


Countdown to Christmas in July......

All gifts should be ready to ship in..... *drum roll*
.
..
...
....
.....
......
.......
........

23 days

[Sickie Ickie]

Guess I should start, eh? heh

[putrid]

Went looking threw my collection of things to make things from and found out I don't have any more of what I need to make this thing. So now I have to stop and hopefully find what I need. Now if I can't find what I need I may have to scrap and start a new project. Or make it look really weird. LOL

[Mistress Muffy]

Well we like weird Xmas things too!

Muf

[putrid]

Well I went back threw looking for something else and found what I was looking for to begin with. Still going to do some running tomorrow but now it won't be as desperate. It might end up looking weird anyway. Projects have a tendency to take on a life of there own at times. LOL

[bethene]

Well, I have a small part of mine done, still looking for a box that I have things in, can not find it .I know it's around here, it's driving me crazy, I want to double check directions, and can't find them! I am making some progress though, so it's a start!!

[Sickie Ickie]

at least you started! LOL

[Elvira]

Hey guys, has anyone heard from digbugsgirl or lacey? Or know of their wherabouts?
They haven't posted in awhile and a few are concerned as the secret santa nears closer to the completion and shipping dates. I have sent them pm's with no reply.

[digbugsgirl]

Oops! I'm here! I've been browsing, though. Sorry about the PM, didn't realize I had one.

[Mummy deer-est]

*Still sulking*

[putrid]

Got started on one part and it looks bad. Guess that's what I get for trying experiments this late in the game. The really bad part about it is it's what was to take place of something that wouldn't of worked either. I'm batten 5000 aint I. LOL

[bethene]

Aww, Putrid, that's too bad!! I finished another small part of mine, and found something in a store that I have been looking for, but haven't looked further for the box, and need to. But I'm cooking now!!:)

[Sickie Ickie]

started looking for parts today in the thrift store. Didn't find what I needed. I'll get it sooner or later. :D

[Elvira]

welcome back digbugsgirl, :)

Now to find lacey! Youuuu whooo lacey???

20 days and counting! This went by so quickly!

[Mistress Muffy]

As for me>>>>>I have not found a xmas store yet!!!Dang!!

Muf

[bethene]

Found what I was looking for, both at home and in a store, so it's coming along nicely!!

[putrid]

Decided the item that didn't turn out as planned was to important. I jazzed it up a bit and will use it anyway. Ran into a new snag but have plans to do something else for that area now. One thing to another to another to...LOL One pleasant surprise. Had stuff fall off the table and go bouncing all over the floor. And another big mess in the living room I had to clean up with the vacuum. LOL

[Sickie Ickie]

You're using babies?

[Elvira]

LOL I can just see putrid saying, the heck with it, I'll suck it all up and go buy more!

[Elvira]

Hows everyones projects coming along? Are we getting close to completing?

I just have one thing to complete and I am all set for the wrapping stage, then box it and waaaaa laaa! All done! :D

[Sickie Ickie]

are we supposed to have started yet? LOL

[Elvira]

Ummm... ya! LOL Gonna have to crack the whip!

[Sickie Ickie]

oooohhh!!!! Goody! LOL

When the deadline to mail?

[Elvira]

July 1st LOL are ya ready? That would be about.... Ohhhhhhh 18 days! :)

[Sickie Ickie]

No prob. I work best under pressure,,,,AAAAUUUGGGHHHH!!!!! :p

[Elvira]

hehehe No comment!

[putrid]

Who'd a thought that what I got wasn't meant to be done this way??? To late in the game to start over so I'll have to deal with unforeseen damage. It might end up well hidden but not something I'm proud of sending to anyone. ( unless it's really well hidden then I'll deny this post ever happened. LOL ) And speaking of sending I'm still trying to figure out how to safely send this thing. Thinking of in-casing it in expanding foam insulation with instructions on how to chisel it free. Would that count as wrapping? LOL All but one piece of the hardest part is done. And it's the hardest part of the hardest part. The part I had stated before that I may have to modify in order for it to work. Can you add all the stuff you destroyed in the process of making this thing to the total cost? If so I'll send a bill. JK LOL.

[bethene]

I am leaving for camping on the 27th, for 9 days, so I have to be finished and have it mailed before then! No pressure here! Didn't work on it yesterday, but got the last thing I needed at the store (well, maybe,LOL!)

[Sickie Ickie]

hmmmmm....maybe getting supplies would be a good idea before I get started. LOL

[Nancj]

Seriously, were we really talking about this July!!?
Elvira, when your done cracking Sickie with the whip, whip on over this way, will ya?

[Sickie Ickie]

Dominatrix Elvira, eh? LOL

[Sickie Ickie]

Found materials and started the project this eve. :)

[Elvira]

Dominatrix Elvira, eh? LOL

The only S&M that appeals to me is ....sequins and mascara LOL


Nancj - I'm pretty good at snappin it... LOL Get crackin chickie!

[Sickie Ickie]

Found a neat piece over at the thrift store for $1.50. Had to pick it up, and revamp it. I liked it so well, I decided to change som eof my original plans and include it in the project. :D

[Elvira]

I can't wait to see what everyone has put together, reading back at some of the posts the up and downs, the revamping, the unforeseen damage, and I bet everything is just turning out awesome.

15 days to go!!!!

[putrid]

As long as what I'm making is viewed in a dark room from a distance it'll look great! LOL Hope whoever gets it has power tools. Gona need em to get this thing out of the box.

[Sickie Ickie]

I got a sledge, Putrid. :p

[putrid]

Cool Sickie Ickie, sledges are great! I've done some of my best 'fixing' with them. But nothing helps make a personal statement like an ax. LOL

[Sickie Ickie]

I'm unique. I'd use a pickax myself. :p

[lacey38655]

I am alive and well. I have been so busy trying to plan my friends wedding, that I swear I am about to jump in my coffin that I recently built and lock it from the inside. Of course I will have to bring the computer with me.. I have missed you guys terribly... Well last night I made a point to lock myself in my scrapbooking room, just to work on my SS gift. It has turned out so good, that I feel I must keep it for myself. No just kidding. I really am pleased with how it is turning out. I need about 2 more days and it will be ready to ship out. wooohooo almost time...

[Elvira]

YAY! Good to have you back Lacy! Wow, sounds like you've been busy. I'm dying to see what it is you have made.

[lacey38655]

Can I give a hint, can I, can I? Man I am not good at keeping secrets.... Jeepers, I am sending it out today... (think dirty socks) he he he he..... sorry you will not remember any of this in the morning.....

[Elvira]

Dirty socks! OMG... Lmao...thats a hilarious hint! Hmmm.... complete with toe jam?

[Sickie Ickie]

and peanut butter.

[Elvira]

Gonna take a guess.......... a christmas stocking.

[Sickie Ickie]

with mud on them.

[Nancj]

got everything I needed yesterday, was very excited when I found everything I needed. will start to work on it tonight, should be done with it by the end of the week.

Sparkles!! thats all I'm saying.
the person recieving this will either love it or want to kill me. In which case I hope its to kill me with love :)

[putrid]

Giving hints now? Ya'll are to smart. I can't think of anything that wouldn't give it away. OK I have one. Sewer pipe. And that's all I'm going to say. LOL

[bethene]

Oh my gosh, Putrid, sewer pipe??!! LMAO!! I can not wait to see what it is!!I can't think of a hint, hmmmm, lets see.... how about circular. I don't know what else to say, so I guess that's it.

[Elvira]

Nancj- sparkles...hmmm... my guess is snowflake tree decorations.

Putrid -sewer pipe... OMG... is it a candle stick?

Bethene - circular - is it a table centre piece?

Now I can't wait to see how close I was with guessing. Only 13 days to go!

[Mistress Muffy]

A Sewer Pipe??? Sounds very interesting to me!!!


the Muffster

[lacey38655]

I will throw in the color black into my hint... does that help any?????? Didn't think so... Keep wondering...

[Sickie Ickie]

my hint...Limburger LOL

[Nancj]

okay heres another
It square
It sparkels
its gold red and green
its definitly not an ornament for the tree, but good guess Elvira.
bethene- circular- if its a circular saw I hope I'm your SS person, I could really use one.
Sickie- I'll pass on the Limburger.
Putrid- Sewer pipe, as in PVC pipe?

[Elvira]

Nancj - Hmmm "its definitely not an ornament for the tree" square, sparkles, gold, red and green. OH! Is it a christmas photo album?

Lacy - color black... holy mackeral, I can't think of anything black! Lets see, how about........how about another hint? :D

Sickie - Limburger! That stinks! LOL If this is a for real hint, I'm going to have to go with........ something that has a fragrance... is it a Christmas potpourri bowl?

[Elvira]

My clue is.................... A new Will

[Elvira]

We all make such good detectives! LOL

[putrid]

A candle??? wouldn't want a lit one of those in a sewer pipe. LOL I'm sending a new sewer pipe. Couldn't think of anything so I thought I would send something useful. JK LOL

[Sickie Ickie]

You are silly Putrid. LOL

[digbugsgirl]

I'm finished mine. It's something my husband and I both designed. I have to package it well because it can easily break. I'll keep my fingers crossed. I hope my person likes it. I started selling them last year at our farmer's market and they were a big hit. I have a lot to do this year and really need to get started on them. Now that I have one finished, I'm inspired to do more! :)

[lacey38655]

You wouldn't wear this one on a date.. How is that for a hint.

[Elvira]

You wouldn't wear this one on a date.. How is that for a hint.

LOL all that comes to mind is something you would wear for halloween. Holy mackeral! Tough clues.

[Mummy deer-est]

All right, I have a few ideas of what to do (can you tell I was the girl who stayed up till the wee morning hours -- or by-passed sleep -- to do the huge term paper due the next day?) I just hope no one will be dissappointed. It's tough to get things for you Christmas nuts!