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Messages 1 - 540 of total 540 in this topic
Edge

Trad climber
Boulder, CO
Nov 4, 2013 - 03:52pm PT
I'm in.

It will be hard for whoever draws my name to top Gal's gift from last year, but that's A-OK.
Lynne Leichtfuss

Sport climber
moving thru
Nov 4, 2013 - 03:59pm PT
I'm in too and like e-kat was just thinking about the exchange a few days ago.

And Edge, No! it will be impossible for anyone to top the gifts and card you sent me last year Totally Awesome!!! Cheers and Love, Lynne
happiegrrrl

Trad climber
www.climbaddictdesigns.com
Nov 4, 2013 - 04:11pm PT
yay! This year I'm in!
SCseagoat

Trad climber
Santa Cruz
Nov 4, 2013 - 04:11pm PT
Déjà vu all over again to the psychic vibes....
In for sure. I'll be in Germany for awhile visiting my son during that time so I'll need to get it sent as soon as I get my buddy's name. It should work though to get it to them on time.

Susan
Crimpergirl

Sport climber
Boulder, Colorado!
Nov 4, 2013 - 04:14pm PT
We were just talking about this event this weekend. Glad to see it up and running. Thanks for all you do Strider!
Sonic

Trad climber
Boulder, Co
Nov 4, 2013 - 04:16pm PT
Im in!
anita514

Gym climber
Great White North
Nov 4, 2013 - 04:16pm PT
can SuperTopo newbies join in?
zip

Trad climber
pacific beach, ca
Nov 4, 2013 - 04:26pm PT
Yes please.
Leggs

Sport climber
Tucson, AZ
Nov 4, 2013 - 05:19pm PT


This should be fun!


~cheers
Nilepoc

Big Wall climber
Tx
Nov 4, 2013 - 05:32pm PT
Decided not to lurk this year. Thanks for organizing the exchange.
adatesman

climber
philadelphia, pa
Nov 4, 2013 - 06:23pm PT
Been looking forward to this all year! Totally in!
SteveW

Trad climber
The state of confusion
Nov 4, 2013 - 06:29pm PT

Thanks, Strider!

I AM IN!!@!@!!
phylp

Trad climber
Millbrae, CA
Nov 4, 2013 - 07:57pm PT
I'm in - this is always so much fun.
email sent, STrider. Thanks!

Phyl
Brandon-

climber
The Granite State.
Nov 4, 2013 - 07:59pm PT
I couldn't afford it last year, but I'm in this year. Sign me up.
Norwegian

Trad climber
dancin on the tip of god's middle finger
Nov 4, 2013 - 08:02pm PT
i was thinking of mailing my vision
to someone willing.

i need a small break from
my runaway wonder.

simply too much gaze,
these days.

seeing thru my eyes
is like sinning thru jesus' limbs.

wood this be a valid gift?
i'd expect only in return
a box of silence.
Leggs

Sport climber
Tucson, AZ
Nov 4, 2013 - 08:19pm PT
^^^ I Wood want to sit in a Tree and read those words...


~peace
pocoloco1

Social climber
The Chihuahua Desert
Nov 4, 2013 - 09:01pm PT
I'm in...thanks Strider
johntp

Trad climber
socal
Nov 4, 2013 - 09:09pm PT
Count me in!
johntp

Trad climber
socal
Nov 4, 2013 - 09:14pm PT
No! it will be impossible for anyone to top the gifts and card you sent me last year Totally Awesome!!!

Don't pair me with LL.
Lynne Leichtfuss

Sport climber
moving thru
Nov 4, 2013 - 09:28pm PT
johntp, Let me rephrase. I fully recognize it's the thought that makes it special. No worries, lynnie.
Edge

Trad climber
Boulder, CO
Nov 4, 2013 - 09:56pm PT
I fully recognize it's the thought that makes it special.

Lynnie, now you tell me. I could have saved myself an entire roll of packing tape...
Lynne Leichtfuss

Sport climber
moving thru
Nov 5, 2013 - 12:35am PT
No, Edge, the packing tape was worth every penny. I still keep the sticker that you taped to my package that says "Take time to Dream" right here by my computer. It's one of my greatest cheerleaders and I've learned more than ever this year to do it.

Because of encouragement and so many positive thoughts and love by my ST friends I have made some scary, even crazy decisions, good ones to give in finally and no matter how it ends....follow those dreams.

lynne
johntp

Trad climber
socal
Nov 5, 2013 - 12:44am PT
LL LL-

Just kidding. Edge has apparently set a high bar....
Lynne Leichtfuss

Sport climber
moving thru
Nov 5, 2013 - 12:50am PT
Oh, johntp, I think he was just following his gut feeling. Sometimes it works. That's what makes this place so great. A kind deed here, an encouraging comment or story there, mixed with all the inspiring TR's.....ST at its best. lynne


Edit: oh, yeah, and Russ's incisive, insightful comments that keep us honest or at least trying....
neebee

Social climber
calif/texas
Nov 5, 2013 - 12:55am PT
hey there say, .... me, too... i am in, and was looking forward to
hear from strider...


sending happy good prayers for all to run smooth, since so many
folks, have gotten out of town, and winter can make it hard to travel and
get back home... :)


will email later tonight or in the afternoon, tomorrow... got stuff to do now... but i still may get it in, now... :)


thank you kindly, strider, for doing good work, at to
this sharing-seasonal gesture of friendship, here...


:)
SofCookay

climber
Nov 5, 2013 - 08:44am PT
Fun! I'm in.
Strider

Trad climber
ಠ_ಠ
Topic Author's Reply - Nov 5, 2013 - 09:41pm PT
Haven't had time to send out confirmation emails yet but I am hoping to tomorrow. I will keep everyone updated.

Please remember, when you email to sign up, give me your mailing address. Too many people signing up with no mailing address.

25 days left to sign up! Sooner is better than later...

-n
johntp

Trad climber
socal
Nov 5, 2013 - 11:23pm PT
Please don't pair me with LL LL!















































snicker! wink wink
Lynne Leichtfuss

Sport climber
moving thru
Nov 5, 2013 - 11:36pm PT
You know what I'd LOVE for my SSSGE....my old avatar back....no longer LL LL but Lynne Leichtfuss. (Just a hint) :)
johntp

Trad climber
socal
Nov 5, 2013 - 11:42pm PT
Edge-

can you help me out here?
Edge

Trad climber
Boulder, CO
Nov 5, 2013 - 11:50pm PT
Sure. What is it I'm helping you out with?
neebee

Social climber
calif/texas
Nov 6, 2013 - 12:12am PT
hey there, say... lynne...

as to this:

You know what I'd LOVE for my SSSGE....my old avatar back....no longer LL LL but Lynne Leichtfuss. (Just a hint) :)


i know... i miss SEEING you and that wonderful name... :(


but say, at least WE ARE seeing you, lately..,. :)
Ihateplastic

Trad climber
It ain't El Cap, Oregon
Nov 6, 2013 - 01:42am PT
In again! For those sitting on the fence... DO IT! I have yet to regret participating in this event from year to year.
Melissa

Gym climber
berkeley, ca
Nov 8, 2013 - 09:13am PT
Bumping my current favorite thread.
Prod

Trad climber
Nov 8, 2013 - 09:19am PT
Fun. I'm in.

Prod.
climbski2

Mountain climber
Anchorage AK, Reno NV
Nov 8, 2013 - 10:04am PT
Should be fun! E-mail sent.
johntp

Trad climber
socal
Nov 8, 2013 - 08:13pm PT
Just a jump in the pool bump.
Brandon-

climber
The Granite State.
Nov 8, 2013 - 08:20pm PT
Whoever gets Edge is one lucky mofo.

I had so much fun putting together my gift two years ago, stoked for this year.
Strider

Trad climber
ಠ_ಠ
Topic Author's Reply - Nov 9, 2013 - 02:23am PT
As of tonight, 11:30pm PST on 11/8/13, everyone who has sent me an email to sign up should have received an email by now confirming their participation.

If you have not received a confirmation email, LET ME KNOW. Also, check your junk email folder.

Good number of sign ups so soon this year! Sign up if you are interested and let's make it the biggest year yet!

22 days left to join the party.

-n
johntp

Trad climber
socal
Nov 9, 2013 - 03:49am PT
Got mine! Yay!

Strider (er, umm, St. Nick) this is a very good thing you do. It is truly appreciated and gives us an opportunity to connect on a more personal level than just living in the cyber world.

Cheers!
phylp

Trad climber
Millbrae, CA
Nov 9, 2013 - 01:10pm PT
I agree johntp! This is a wonderful Supertopo tradition. Thanks, Santa!
nita

Social climber
chica de chico, I don't claim to be a daisy.
Nov 9, 2013 - 02:32pm PT
I've never joined in on the gift exchange .... Humbug!....

But

i do enjoy seeing everyone else having a grand time. (-;


Whoever gets Edge is one lucky mofo.
so true....
Lynne Leichtfuss

Sport climber
moving thru
Nov 11, 2013 - 10:04pm PT
There is a Santa, Virginia, and he came early for me.

I just got my old avatar, real name, back yesterday thanks to Fish. Blessings Dude. :D Hope Santa is equally as good to Yo.

lynne
Edge

Trad climber
Boulder, CO
Nov 11, 2013 - 10:19pm PT
Congrats, Lynne! It's a Festivus miracle!
Lynne Leichtfuss

Sport climber
moving thru
Nov 11, 2013 - 10:26pm PT
Hey to you Edge,

Yes, indeed!

Now let's try to convince Nita that she needs to join in the miracles and joy. :) Smiles, lynne
Lynne Leichtfuss

Sport climber
moving thru
Nov 12, 2013 - 04:15pm PT
Strider, I have not yet received my confirmation. Should I be worried.

Also, want to encourage many of you not yet signed up to do so. This is an epic blast! Cheers, Lynne
Leggs

Sport climber
Tucson, AZ
Nov 12, 2013 - 05:32pm PT
Got my email!
Thanks Santa~
johntp

Trad climber
socal
Nov 12, 2013 - 09:16pm PT
Strider, I have not yet received my confirmation. Should I be worried.

St. Nick knows who's been good and who's been bad.

nita needs to jump in the pool....
Strider

Trad climber
ಠ_ಠ
Topic Author's Reply - Nov 12, 2013 - 09:41pm PT
More confirmation emails sent. Only one person asked to sign up but I needed more info. Everyone else should have gotten a confirmation email.

T-Minus 18 days to sign up!

-n
Lynne Leichtfuss

Sport climber
moving thru
Nov 12, 2013 - 09:49pm PT
Nita and Andy ....Nita and Andy we want you....we want you!!! :)
nita

Social climber
chica de chico, I don't claim to be a daisy.
Nov 12, 2013 - 11:48pm PT
Miss Lynne, and Johntp, Honestly, just can't do it, and it's not a money thing.. I like to give to people in need for Christmas. My usual holiday list is sorta like this..Oxfam, Local foster kid gift, my little sister> (BB&BS) and sometimes i do my own Secret Santa gig.....(-;

I am actually.. Not a fan of Christmas...But.. I enjoy watching you Tacoheads have fun opening your gifts.

Cheers..

Edit:...Lynne, not sure if you saw this video, think you will enjoy.
http://www.upworthy.com/clear-your-next-10-minutes-because-this-video-could-change-how-happy-you-are-with-your-entire-week

Lynne Leichtfuss

Sport climber
moving thru
Nov 12, 2013 - 11:53pm PT
OK, but you could just get my name and send me a note. I hear what your're saying..... it's fine.

Love is a gift you don't buy or wrap and I'm sending it(as in climbing)to you and Mr. Music. Hearts, lynne.
Seamstress

Trad climber
Yacolt, WA
Nov 13, 2013 - 01:49am PT
I was wondering if this was on again this year.

I want in!!!
Strider

Trad climber
ಠ_ಠ
Topic Author's Reply - Nov 13, 2013 - 06:57pm PT
Bumpidy bump

johntp

Trad climber
socal
Nov 13, 2013 - 09:17pm PT
What Lynnie said. A card, a little rock from your favorite climbing area, a favorite photo or something along those lines would be awesome.

It doesn't have to cost much more than postage. This is about connecting on a level outside the typical cyber taco.

No one will post up saying "damn, I really wanted an iPad". Seriously, just jump in the pool. You won't regret it. There is something about looking at that envelope or package and wondering "what is in there and who is my SSS"?

Splash!
LilaBiene

Trad climber
Technically...the spawning grounds of Yosemite
Nov 13, 2013 - 11:19pm PT
Me, too! I want in! :D
MisterE

climber
Nov 13, 2013 - 11:24pm PT
Skip and I have been talking about joining this year.

I am in, my guess is she's probably not far behind...
johntp

Trad climber
socal
Nov 14, 2013 - 01:07am PT
Welcome to the pool ME.
Andy Fielding

Trad climber
UK
Nov 14, 2013 - 04:05pm PT
Still waiting for Santa to deliver my gift from lasy year :( I guess he got lost mid Atlantic. ;)
frank wyman

Mountain climber
montana
Nov 14, 2013 - 04:21pm PT
I'm in again, Although the dude I sent my gift to did not acknowledge it or even say thanks. Must have not liked my polictial leanings or something,It's okay...Got some cool stuff from my secret santa in S.L.O. I mean... It is Christmas time!!!(even Snoopy and the Red Baron put aside their differences)
Lynne Leichtfuss

Sport climber
moving thru
Nov 14, 2013 - 04:29pm PT
So sorry Andy......that's not like ST.
happiegrrrl

Trad climber
www.climbaddictdesigns.com
Nov 14, 2013 - 04:47pm PT
Others have probably made the connection before, but it was only when getting my confirmation email that I realized that Stryder's name was Nick(as in Saint Nick?)

I've always believed that Santa Claus(St. Nicholas) IS as real as real can be, and that he works through others, and Stryder is once again showing us how that goes!
JOEY.F

Gym climber
It's not rocket surgery
Nov 14, 2013 - 05:14pm PT
I'm down for being in, or up for being down, or something like that, Good fun!
edit
yes indeed phylp or Yule be cryin in your hot rum if you forget. Santa knows, always has, as I recall...
phylp

Trad climber
Millbrae, CA
Nov 14, 2013 - 06:04pm PT
Just don't forget it's not enough to say you're in here - you have to send an email to St. Nick.
Lynne Leichtfuss

Sport climber
moving thru
Nov 16, 2013 - 06:35pm PT
November 16th Already! Don't dally, sign up now for some grate, great fun! Zeriously! lynne
Lynne Leichtfuss

Sport climber
moving thru
Nov 16, 2013 - 09:54pm PT
I think I've found the perfect gift :))) Now, can't wait til I get my name.


I'm getting in the spirit....watching a Christmas movie right now. I know I'm early but I love the Holidays. Tomorrow we are cooking a "test" Thanksgiving turkey with all the fixings....YeeHaw!!!

Anyone in the area you're welcome to join us. Cheers, lynne
Strider

Trad climber
ಠ_ಠ
Topic Author's Reply - Nov 18, 2013 - 01:47am PT
Rock and Roll!

At this time everyone, except one person, should have received a confirmation email from me.

My confirmation emails are clear and plain as a confirmation email, so if you have not gotten one PLEASE message me ASAP.

At this time we have 40+ people signed up. We need at least another dozen to break the record for the most sign-ups!

Only 13 days left to sign up. Email supertoposanta (at) gmail (dot) com

-n

neebee

Social climber
calif/texas
Nov 18, 2013 - 05:24pm PT
hey there say, all...

just a bump... :)
Captain...or Skully

climber
Nov 18, 2013 - 07:42pm PT
I'll jump in with a stipulation.....I can't receive until February. I'd dig giving though. ;-)
Lynne Leichtfuss

Sport climber
moving thru
Nov 18, 2013 - 07:59pm PT
Skully, were you at Face Lift and I missed you? lynnie
adatesman

climber
philadelphia, pa
Nov 19, 2013 - 08:04am PT
Bump
Captain...or Skully

climber
Nov 20, 2013 - 12:46pm PT
Yeah, I was there for a bit, but had to leave early due to poor timing on my part. Meh.
Oh, yeah...bump.
johntp

Trad climber
socal
Nov 20, 2013 - 05:56pm PT
Welcome to the Pool Skully!
Lynne Leichtfuss

Sport climber
moving thru
Nov 21, 2013 - 11:25pm PT
Just want to encourage some of you lurkers out there to have fun with the campfire this year. It's not difficult or challenging. But it is Tons of Fun.

1) you sign up....takes about 30 seconds.
2) you get a name.
3) you send them something....for crying out loud, find a gorgeous rock, write Peace or Joy on it. Anything is good (well within reason....:))
4) you receive a gift and, I know it's hard work, but you have you unwrap it.

But the best is the spirit of the season that you just might feel.

Joy to all, lynnie
Strider

Trad climber
ಠ_ಠ
Topic Author's Reply - Nov 21, 2013 - 11:25pm PT
Skully, you have messages disabled so this is my only way to contact you. Unless I missed something you have not signed up but are more than welcome to! We can accommodate most situations.

Other than one person whom I just emailed tonight, everyone should have confirmations emails.

9 days left to sign-up!

Send an email to supertoposanta (at) gmail (dot) com

cheers
-n
johntp

Trad climber
socal
Nov 21, 2013 - 11:35pm PT
Skully is in the backwaters of WY. Put him on the roll; he'll check in when he has access.
Lynne Leichtfuss

Sport climber
moving thru
Nov 21, 2013 - 11:40pm PT
I wonder if Lasti from Budapest is still out there on the "ether" net. Send us an ST "card" even if you don't sign up. Think of you and your climber friends often. Missed you all that New Years, but I had a fantastic time in Nice, France, New Years Eve. It was a wonderful experience for me. Cheers, Lynne
Strider

Trad climber
ಠ_ಠ
Topic Author's Reply - Nov 21, 2013 - 11:44pm PT
Skully is in the backwaters of WY

Can't really do that without some more info from him. Hopefully he can resurface and drop a line...

-n
Strider

Trad climber
ಠ_ಠ
Topic Author's Reply - Nov 25, 2013 - 09:42pm PT
As of now, everyone who has signed up should have received a confirmation email.

Sorry for the delay in sending this last round of confirmation emails. It is the holiday season and this is my first day off with some spare time.

Sign ups end this coming Saturday, Nov 30th. Only 6 days left to sign up, get on it!

-n
SteveW

Trad climber
The state of confusion
Nov 25, 2013 - 09:48pm PT

Hooray for Strider!
Thanks for all of your hard work!
zip

Trad climber
pacific beach, ca
Nov 25, 2013 - 10:23pm PT
The last couple of years we have sent Strider a gift.
Please contact me off site if you are interested in contributing.
adatesman

climber
philadelphia, pa
Nov 26, 2013 - 03:24pm PT
4 days left bump!
Brandon-

climber
The Granite State.
Nov 26, 2013 - 03:27pm PT
Looking forward to it, I had fun last time I participated.
Strider

Trad climber
ಠ_ಠ
Topic Author's Reply - Nov 26, 2013 - 04:49pm PT
bump

-n
portent

Social climber
your mom's house
Nov 26, 2013 - 05:00pm PT
I'm in this year!

-kovar
mouse from merced

Trad climber
The finger of fate, my friends, is fickle.
Nov 26, 2013 - 07:14pm PT

Time of Purchase:
a seasonal greeting from Merced

See you at the Mall...NOT!

It was a dark and gloomy sunrise in Merced that shopping day,
But before the stores were open the gloom had cleared away..
The shoppers who had camped the week hoping for a deal
Saw the sun reveal itself and they began to squeal.

“Bargains, bargains, we want bargains!!”
They raised an awful din.
The manager, a cool young man,
Said, “F*#k a riot...let them in.”

He braved the swarm of asshoppers almost trampling him
But he went down...felt faint...his eyes went very dim...
almost unconscious...from very far away...
“Time of death...six ten a. m. this awful Black Friday."

and furthermore

I hope you have a happy time
Selecting just the one
Right thing-ma-bob
That does the job
For sibling, mate, or son

But as for me, save your money.
Create a neato gift
And let me say ahead of time,
"Secret Santas practice thrift."

String your stockings with care, love, and good cheer.
Captain...or Skully

climber
Nov 26, 2013 - 08:11pm PT
Hiya Strider...Actually Im in Missouri right now, visiting with the parental units. It's the backwaters of North Dakota that I work in, and I work a lot. My active email is skullyambroATgmailDOTcom. Yeah, I can give something but like I said I wont be anywhere near home until Feb. Feel free to E mail me & we can discuss at great length.
L

climber
California dreamin' on the farside of the world..
Nov 26, 2013 - 08:26pm PT
Wow--looks like fun! I'm in.

Captain...or Skully--I'm in the backwaters of Missouri tomorrow, visiting with the parental units. Nothing like good ol' Misery for the holidays. ;-)
johntp

Trad climber
socal
Nov 26, 2013 - 11:10pm PT
It's the backwaters of North Dakota that I work in

My bad; thought it was WY. Welcome to the pool.

Bump
Strider

Trad climber
ಠ_ಠ
Topic Author's Reply - Nov 27, 2013 - 12:56am PT
We are damn close to breaking our Supertopo record for Secret Santa sign-ups. Come on people, you know you want in on the fun!

4 days left!

-n
johntp

Trad climber
socal
Nov 27, 2013 - 01:07am PT
Yeah, I can give something but like I said I wont be anywhere near home until Feb.

Whoa! Been there and it is a tough row to hoe. That is a loooong time to be away from home.

Cheers skully.
Captain...or Skully

climber
Nov 27, 2013 - 09:19am PT
So am I in or what? Hey Strider. :-)
phylp

Trad climber
Millbrae, CA
Nov 27, 2013 - 01:14pm PT
Hey Lurkers! Sign up! Here's another reason this game is fun - the Sherlock Holmes aspect:

On the giving end, you get assigned someone and you can do some fun detective work to figure out what this stranger might like. You read their posts for clues to what they like: books, birds, art, wine, building things. One year, my giftee had an unsearchable supertopo name, but using his real name on google, plus the word "climber" and his location in the US, I was able to track him back to the forum. I still had no idea what to get him after all this (which only took about 10 minutes), but it was fun building a profile around someone who had been a unknown. I definately did not feel like I was sending a gift to a stranger out in space somewhere.

Same thing on the receiving end. From the names on the return address label, I have been able to figure out the supertopo names of a couple of my santas who tried to remain secret, and then it was fun reviewing their posts and getting to know them a little.

Last year my santa was someone I know in the real world, and that was really fun too.
Ho Ho Ho! Phyl
Strider

Trad climber
ಠ_ಠ
Topic Author's Reply - Nov 27, 2013 - 01:55pm PT
Sorry Skully, I missed your post above. Email has been sent.

Only a few days left to sign up...

-n
neebee

Social climber
calif/texas
Nov 27, 2013 - 10:07pm PT
hey there, say, glad skully got in, :)


say, did anyone ever get any kind of gift to the one, across seas, that DID not get one, last year??? *didn't i just read that, a bit agao, here, ?

just curious... :) so he won't feel left out... :(
Strider

Trad climber
ಠ_ಠ
Topic Author's Reply - Nov 28, 2013 - 01:11am PT
neebee,

I am working on that. Not 100% positive but I am pretty sure the sender did his duty but something else got in the way. Also hoping to make it right this year, since he is in again this year. Good sport.

-n
justthemaid

climber
Jim Henson's Basement
Nov 28, 2013 - 09:44am PT
Squeakin' in under the line. Email sent to Super-T-Santa!
speelyei

Trad climber
Mohave County Arizona
Nov 28, 2013 - 09:54am PT
Another last minute addition. Thanks!
Captain...or Skully

climber
Nov 28, 2013 - 12:01pm PT
These aren't amateur crastinators.....these folk are Pros!
Haha!
H

Mountain climber
there and back again
Nov 28, 2013 - 01:03pm PT
Looking forward to seeing who my Secret Santa recipient is. Thanks Santa for doing this yet another year. LOVE IT,
H
Strider

Trad climber
ಠ_ಠ
Topic Author's Reply - Nov 28, 2013 - 03:01pm PT
Confirmations sent, I should be all caught up.

Sign ups close on Saturday night. Get to it you PRO-crastinators!

-n
Strider

Trad climber
ಠ_ಠ
Topic Author's Reply - Nov 28, 2013 - 04:22pm PT
More confirmations sent.

Off to work now, it will be a long night. 375+ people to feed Thanksgiving dinner for. I will get back to this probably tomorrow.

Happy Thanksgiving and thanks to everyone who signed up, it looks like it will be a great year for this!

-n
GLee

Social climber
MSO
Nov 28, 2013 - 07:15pm PT
I knew I was a Pro at something! Count me in Santa.. Email sent...
johntp

Trad climber
socal
Nov 29, 2013 - 08:26pm PT
zip- did you get my PM? If not, send me one.

John
Strider

Trad climber
ಠ_ಠ
Topic Author's Reply - Nov 30, 2013 - 01:51am PT
Final count down for sign-ups.

25 hours and 14 minutes left to sign up.

No more procrastination. Get in or get left behind!

-n
neebee

Social climber
calif/texas
Nov 30, 2013 - 05:25am PT
hey there say, strider... wow! how did the thanksgiving 'feed 'em' go?

:)


Strider

Trad climber
ಠ_ಠ
Topic Author's Reply - Nov 30, 2013 - 06:56pm PT
neebee, Thanksgiving went well, one of the best I have worked. The holiday is winding down now and almost time to relax, tonight is the last busy night.

All confirmations have been sent and hopefully received.

Last chance to sign up is tonight, by 12am Pacific Time, so roughly 8 hours, 8 minutes and 50 seconds as I post this.

Hurry up!

-n
Rockin' Gal

Trad climber
Boulder
Nov 30, 2013 - 08:18pm PT
This is the best part of supertopo, imho.
Lynne Leichtfuss

Sport climber
moving thru
Nov 30, 2013 - 09:11pm PT
Challenging all you Lurkers and Campfire Friends here.....sign up. Chezzzz it's fun. Being a couch potato is Boring. lynnie
feralfae

Boulder climber
Montana
Nov 30, 2013 - 09:47pm PT
I'm in (from the hospital.)
feralfae
climbski2

Mountain climber
Anchorage AK, Reno NV
Nov 30, 2013 - 09:49pm PT
^ awesome!

Strider

Trad climber
ಠ_ಠ
Topic Author's Reply - Dec 1, 2013 - 12:42am PT
2 hours and 23 minutes left to sign up!

Last chance is now

-n
Strider

Trad climber
ಠ_ಠ
Topic Author's Reply - Dec 1, 2013 - 02:58am PT
Going.....

going...

going...

last chance
Strider

Trad climber
ಠ_ಠ
Topic Author's Reply - Dec 1, 2013 - 03:07am PT
And gone! Thanks to everyone who signed up. Secret Santa 2013 Signups are closed now. For everyone who signed up you can expect an email within the next day or two with your gift recipient.

Happy Holidays and thanks for joining up!

-n
10b4me

Ice climber
Bishop/Flagstaff
Dec 1, 2013 - 11:28am PT
Thanks for taking the time to do this, Strider.
Lynne Leichtfuss

Sport climber
moving thru
Dec 1, 2013 - 04:07pm PT
Yeahhhhh!!! Can't wait! :)
crustie

climber
SF, CA
Dec 3, 2013 - 05:02pm PT
oh no, how did i miss this this year!!!
:(
bummer.
so sad!!

next year i guess...
feralfae

Boulder climber
Montana
Dec 3, 2013 - 08:20pm PT
This is so much fun!
And since I am one of those fairies who makes stuff, this is most fun! :)

And I a home, but I will go write about that over on the dragonfly-enriched thread.

Thank you Strider, this great game.
feralfae
johntp

Trad climber
socal
Dec 3, 2013 - 10:57pm PT
Needles and pins...
Leggs

Sport climber
Tucson, AZ
Dec 3, 2013 - 11:00pm PT
Thanks for taking the time to do this, Strider.

+100!
Lynne Leichtfuss

Sport climber
moving thru
Dec 4, 2013 - 12:08am PT
+ another 100. Peace and Joy, lynnie
Strider

Trad climber
ಠ_ಠ
Topic Author's Reply - Dec 4, 2013 - 04:00am PT
ALL GIFT EMAILS HAVE BEEN SENT AT THIS TIME.

You should have an email from me with the name and address of the person you need to send your gift to.

PLEASE LET ME KNOW IF YOU HAVE NOT GOTTEN THIS EMAIL!!!!

Two last points:
 Please have your gift in the mail by 12/16/13 to ensure delivery by Christmas.
  Whether you open your gift the day you receive it or if you open it on Christmas, please come back here, post & share what you got. Half the fun for everyone is spreading the love.

Thank you to everyone who signed up this year. You folks are awesome and I wish you all the best for the rest of this year and next year as well!

Cheers
-St. Nick
Strider

Trad climber
ಠ_ಠ
Topic Author's Reply - Dec 4, 2013 - 10:00pm PT
Hahaha

So I woke up this morning to more than 20 emails asking me for the Supertopo name of their gift recipient. Apparently I forgot to make sure I included that in my emails last night. So I am caching up tonight and emailing everyone.

Sorry for the missing info. It will be corrected shortly.

Even St. Nick screws up every so often. =)

-n

ps. Finished sending emails to those who asked. If anyone else needs to know who their person is on the forum, send me an email and I will fill you in. Again, my apologies for forgetting this piece of info.
johntp

Trad climber
socal
Dec 4, 2013 - 10:05pm PT
noobs; can't get away from them. :)
Lynne Leichtfuss

Sport climber
moving thru
Dec 4, 2013 - 10:09pm PT
Don't think it's possible for yo to screw up. Thanks again for ALL you do here.

HO, HO, HO.....Merry Christmas St. Nick and lots of love to you from all of us around this glorious campfire.
happiegrrrl

Trad climber
www.climbaddictdesigns.com
Dec 4, 2013 - 10:36pm PT
I got my email this morning, name included!
Crimpergirl

Sport climber
Boulder, Colorado!
Dec 4, 2013 - 10:49pm PT
Got my email. Yay! Sleuthed. Shopped. Shipped. Couldn't get it wrapped given where it's coming from though. Boo. If you get a package, open when you want, but don't assume the goodie is wrapped.
pocoloco1

Social climber
The Chihuahua Desert
Dec 4, 2013 - 11:02pm PT
Is a gift certificate to impersonal?
Lynne Leichtfuss

Sport climber
moving thru
Dec 4, 2013 - 11:06pm PT
Poco, do you not have time to shop or do you not know anything about the person you are giving to?

IMHO gift certificate would be fine, but it would be better to find a "special" gift. lynnie
pocoloco1

Social climber
The Chihuahua Desert
Dec 4, 2013 - 11:09pm PT

LL
I have time to shop,it's the selection that is the problem.
Lynne Leichtfuss

Sport climber
moving thru
Dec 5, 2013 - 01:47am PT
I understand. But tho I've never met you, I think you can trust your gut. Go shop. Have fun doing it. The receiver will love it! Go Dude and have a Wonderful Holiday Season.

Cheers, lynnie
johntp

Trad climber
socal
Dec 5, 2013 - 04:50am PT
Got my email. Yay! Sleuthed. Shopped. Shipped. Couldn't get it wrapped given where it's coming from though. Boo. If you get a package, open when you want, but don't assume the goodie is wrapped.

Well, aren't you the over achiever? :) I still need to check my email and find who gets my lame ass gift.....
Brandon-

climber
The Granite State.
Dec 5, 2013 - 07:11am PT
Poco, a gift card would be impersonal.

I got my name. Now, what to give...it's the best part, the giving.
Leggs

Sport climber
Tucson, AZ
Dec 5, 2013 - 09:03am PT
Got my name... NO idea who it is!!!
This should be so fun!


~Peace!
Nilepoc

Big Wall climber
Tx
Dec 5, 2013 - 09:17am PT
Got mine without the ST name. Fortunately it was easy via google to figure out the future victim of my gifting prowess though. From previous Santa threads, this person has had some awesome deliveries. Now to brainstorm a suitable gift.
L

climber
California dreamin' on the farside of the world..
Dec 5, 2013 - 09:50am PT
Crimpie and I come from the same over-achiever stock.

Got my name yesterday.
Shopped like a crazy (read: euphoric) person yesterday afternoon.
Wrapped like a blissful maniac last night.
Just shipped.
Awaiting confirmation of receipt like a kid sittin' by the fireplace.

From 10 years of living in AK with a family in MO, I've found that if you don't jump on the Christmas mailing thing pronto, the USPS does its darnedest to derail your best intentions onto the road to hell. ;-)
climbski2

Mountain climber
Anchorage AK, Reno NV
Dec 5, 2013 - 01:30pm PT
Hmm I got one of those pesky rare for ST considerate individuals that rarely spays anything about themselves. Lots of posts to dig/research through fortunately but still not much about themselves. Seems to have all the gear they need too.../sigh Difficult to shop for.
Captain...or Skully

climber
Dec 5, 2013 - 01:36pm PT
I got my victim...I mean recipient. Haha. I don't know their handle, but I reckon it don't matter much. I'll find out in due course.
L

climber
California dreamin' on the farside of the world..
Dec 5, 2013 - 01:39pm PT
"Seems to have all the gear they need too..."

Climbski2--you can never have all the gear you'll ever need. Never ever.
Captain...or Skully

climber
Dec 5, 2013 - 02:21pm PT
Word, eKat.:-)
johntp

Trad climber
socal
Dec 5, 2013 - 04:21pm PT
Whoa, wait! I have to wrap the gift? That was not in the rules and regulations.....

Crap....

Wish I had opposible thumbs.
drljefe

climber
El Presidio San Augustin del Tucson
Dec 6, 2013 - 11:03am PT
Expect your package in 3-4 days.
This means you.
mouse from merced

Trad climber
The finger of fate, my friends, is fickle.
Dec 6, 2013 - 04:25pm PT
He's sure.
Edge

Trad climber
Boulder, CO
Dec 6, 2013 - 04:59pm PT
Internet stalking: Check
Brainstorming session: Yep
Sketch of ideas: Working on it

Good thing I have 10 more days before I need to pop my gift in the mail. Ima gonna need 'em.
Captain...or Skully

climber
Dec 6, 2013 - 05:12pm PT
Mine's in the post. Had to get it out in before reentering the oil patch. I won't take the chance of weirdness. Woot!
Melissa

Gym climber
berkeley, ca
Dec 6, 2013 - 06:14pm PT
If any of you would be willing to trade giftees, pretty please e-mail me (so we can keep it quietish).
Melissa

Gym climber
berkeley, ca
Dec 6, 2013 - 06:40pm PT
I don't know about greasemonkey…I actually drew someone that everyone loves and would be thrilled to treat, but for a totally benign reason, I'd like to switch. ETA…I'll 'splain it to everyone after Christmas so it doesn't seem shady.
Michelle

Social climber
1187 Hunterwasser
Dec 6, 2013 - 07:43pm PT
Super excited! I'm finishing it up tonite and it'll be off to you soon!
neebee

Social climber
calif/texas
Dec 6, 2013 - 07:49pm PT
hey there say, all...

yep, as us 'craft folks' are prone to, i will be busy working at it, just like what edge said, i will need my almost ten days, too...

:)

should get there on time, or just in time...
so not to worry, ... :)


if i have any trouble, i will ol' nick know, to let you know...
but so far, all is well... :)

:)
phylp

Trad climber
Millbrae, CA
Dec 6, 2013 - 08:07pm PT
Wrapped and ready to go out tomorrow!
neebee

Social climber
calif/texas
Dec 6, 2013 - 08:17pm PT
hey there say, to POCO or anyone that has trouble...

many folks have families, or have friends that come over, for the holiday, and, even if not... if they are alone, well:

ornamental plants, holly decor, candle arrangements, etc, are nice for any home... makes it cheery and folks are NOT left out of the warmth of holiday season...

the house will be bright and cheery, etc... even if it is someone that travels, etc... fake arrangements, these days, will still look regal and last all year... for guys are gals, depending on what design you pick...

we used to use pine-cones for gift to folks, with neat branches, etc...
so you could try that... ????


hope we can help... :)
you can do it, you will see! ...


or ask someone that KNOWS the person???
that is good, also... :)

they may know them, and their handle, and can help you read on taco,
what they like, :)



Andy Fielding

Trad climber
UK
Dec 7, 2013 - 01:09pm PT
Gift sent from this side of the pond. Estimated date for delivery 24 December!! Will be scanning this thread hoping the recipient receives it earlier.
GLee

Social climber
MSO
Dec 7, 2013 - 01:58pm PT
Forgot to wrap it, but received via USPS Priority TODAY in Canton, NY!!

nita

Social climber
chica de chico, I don't claim to be a daisy.
Dec 7, 2013 - 02:02pm PT
Andy fielding, i hope this year ..you actually receive a gift from your Secret Santa ....

BTW, were you the first person to do that swing?
[Click to View YouTube Video]

edit:..Andy Fielding, no freaking way...(-;
Andy Fielding

Trad climber
UK
Dec 7, 2013 - 04:09pm PT
^^^^Nita thanks. No it's a bridge near Calpe, Spain that is quite well known. Fancy a go?
neebee

Social climber
calif/texas
Dec 7, 2013 - 04:25pm PT
hey there say, nita and andy... oh my, WHAT a find, and what a share, :O

yes, andy, we are all rooting for your gift to get there!
:)


say, i know a gal in yorkshire area and one year many gifts and mail were damaged from a flood and her mail did not get out--was ruined...

though, this may not be your area... it might explain, if it was...
adatesman

climber
philadelphia, pa
Dec 7, 2013 - 04:32pm PT
Thanks for the nudge to get things moving, Folks! Gift acquired, now just needs wrapping and mailing! :)
Andy Fielding

Trad climber
UK
Dec 7, 2013 - 05:07pm PT
i know a gal in yorkshire area

I did live there neebee but I moved away 30 years ago :D
neebee

Social climber
calif/texas
Dec 7, 2013 - 05:11pm PT
hey there andy, awwww, oh my, :))

thanks for reply, :)
H

Mountain climber
there and back again
Dec 7, 2013 - 05:44pm PT
Packaged up and ready to mail on Monday.

I hope the guy likes books on climbing.

Secret Santa thank you for the opportunity to give. Always feels good.
elf#52

Ice climber
Northpole, California
Dec 7, 2013 - 07:31pm PT
Supertopo Santagram (™) to ANDY FIELDING:

Dear Andy,

As you may be aware, Santa reserves the use of the sleigh and the reindeer for delivery to children only. And while you may be a child at heart, or even childish at times, your delivery has been outsourced.

You can expect a delivery from Santa via US Postal Service in 7-10 business days, or 2 weeks in human days.

Best Wishes from the North Pole,
Elf#52
Crimpergirl

Sport climber
Boulder, Colorado!
Dec 7, 2013 - 07:53pm PT
i know a gal in yorkshire area

This makes me want to write a naughty limerick. :)
happiegrrrl

Trad climber
www.climbaddictdesigns.com
Dec 7, 2013 - 08:31pm PT
i know a gal in yorkshire area

could't imagine a lass much hairier


....next!
phylp

Trad climber
Millbrae, CA
Dec 7, 2013 - 08:55pm PT
Once shaved, she was revealed as a Terrier.

The belay was still good,
but try as I would,
I no longer wanted to marry her.
Crimpergirl

Sport climber
Boulder, Colorado!
Dec 7, 2013 - 09:22pm PT
Excellent work!!! Hahaha!

edit:

I'm still totally laughing!!!
MisterE

climber
Dec 7, 2013 - 10:04pm PT
OK, picked something(s) out, got my Topian and address. Just need to package and send!

It's weird, it's old school, but it's fun...

Erik
SteveW

Trad climber
The state of confusion
Dec 7, 2013 - 11:13pm PT

C'mon, Callie, we want to hear yours too!
Andy Fielding

Trad climber
UK
Dec 8, 2013 - 03:40am PT
Best Wishes from the North Pole,
Elf#52

Thanks Elf#52 :)
Crimpergirl

Sport climber
Boulder, Colorado!
Dec 8, 2013 - 10:36am PT
No way I can out-limerick those tacitas! Great job!
L

climber
California dreamin' on the farside of the world..
Dec 8, 2013 - 12:53pm PT
I decided to ship my gift UPS to improve its chances of arriving on time and also, I wanted to be able to check its progress as it meandered its way across the country.

WHAT a mistake.

Now I'm OCD with the UPS Tracking site and wondering why the heck it's taking them so long to move that package along. So what if it's Sunday! ;-)
10b4me

Ice climber
Bishop/Flagstaff
Dec 8, 2013 - 12:57pm PT
Now I'm OCD with the UPS Tracking site and wondering why the heck it's taking them so long to move that package along. So what if it's Sunday! ;-)

Hahahaha!

Wait a minute. It's Sunday?
L

climber
California dreamin' on the farside of the world..
Dec 8, 2013 - 01:02pm PT
You know Steve, you're livin' the right kinda life if you don't even know what day it is!
Melissa

Gym climber
berkeley, ca
Dec 8, 2013 - 01:16pm PT
I made the switch. Super psyched about my new giftee. Reason: I drew the same person I'd just had and I'd already made something that wasn't very different gift from what they'd already received from me. I figured they'd have a better secret santa experience with a new gifter. But with my new draw, well there was just the thing that was totally different from what I planned, so it's all new all the way around. Very psyched. Off to get some gift wrap...
Jacemullen

Trad climber
Oceanside
Dec 9, 2013 - 12:44pm PT
Holy Smokes! It happened!

Got an email saying that I had a package waiting for me, went skiing and the mail center was closed so I had to wait till I got out of class today to find out what this mystery package was!

No return adress, no nothing on the outside lead my friends and i to shake it in confusion: "It's a bomb!" my friend Gavin said.

I furiously ripped it open to find a note which made it all make sense. After pulling them out we all got excited about the new gear!


These are perfect because, well, I've been needing some more quickdraws for the longest time (they have a nasty habit of going missing) but these colorful badboys certainly wont!

Thanks so much Greg, I can't wait to get these on rock (They might make it on ice first with how the weathers been!).

I hadn't checked this thread in a while so sorry for not waiting to open in, but mystery packages (and mail in general, I don't get enough of it!) excite me!

Thanks so much!
John Butler

Social climber
SLC, Utah
Dec 9, 2013 - 01:55pm PT
take good care of the one with the nut... it's a work of art. it would look great hanging in the kitchen with a rusty leeper z or two alongside the nut

:-)

jb
SteveW

Trad climber
The state of confusion
Dec 9, 2013 - 02:00pm PT

Mine's in the mail to it's recipient.
johntp

Trad climber
socal
Dec 9, 2013 - 04:41pm PT
My giftee is toast.....hope santa delivers on the 24th. Things are running a wee bit late.

edit: damn over achievers making us procrastinators look bad........
neebee

Social climber
calif/texas
Dec 9, 2013 - 05:03pm PT
hey there say, johntp.... oh my, as long as folks here, in general, are let to know that things may be late... not to worry...
and, as well:

christmas holiday and cheer easily runs right up to the new year and gives
you an extra week, :) a good way to start off the new year...

i am hoping mine will not be late, as i send it out on about the 16th, or even 17th... :O


but i think it will make it... :)
feralfae

Boulder climber
Montana
Dec 9, 2013 - 05:36pm PT
Gifts arranged, packaged, wrapped, and goes off tomorrow via Priority Mail.
Since it is only going to Colorado, I am fairly darn sure it will make it on time.

This has been great fun, and the recipient is getting something a little special. :)

We will see if it is liked.

feralfae, the gift-wrapping fairy.

Aya K

Trad climber
Boulder, CO!
Dec 9, 2013 - 10:19pm PT
Argh, running into a bit of a snag with mine, but don't worry, it WILL go out...
MisterE

climber
Dec 9, 2013 - 10:39pm PT
Mailed mine today!
Abend

Social climber
Dec 10, 2013 - 10:31am PT

Turns out that my squirrel is buddies with my giftee's cat.
happiegrrrl

Trad climber
www.climbaddictdesigns.com
Dec 10, 2013 - 11:01am PT
Added my package to the sub-contacting transportation sleigh this morning!
frank wyman

Mountain climber
montana
Dec 10, 2013 - 11:23am PT
I'm picking out a Thermos for you.......Picking out a Thermos for you..Oh wait.... I know what I'll send...That book on the 1977 airplane crash in Yosemite....Where can I pick that up?? Barnes-Noble?.Amazon?..Hastings??...
drljefe

climber
El Presidio San Augustin del Tucson
Dec 10, 2013 - 04:54pm PT
So I was cracking out tracking the package as it made its way to my giftee.
Status: delivered Dec. 9th 4pm.

Check your mail and Post up!
Seamstress

Trad climber
Yacolt, WA
Dec 10, 2013 - 05:20pm PT
I got mine!!!! Pictures to follow.

I ordered the gift for my person today and had to pay expedited shipping. That's what you get for procrastinating. I just inherited a large mountaineering book collection. Thought I would thumb through that and find an appropriate vintage book to add to the gift.
Rockin' Gal

Trad climber
Boulder
Dec 10, 2013 - 06:50pm PT
Wait a minute. It's 14 days before Christmas. How can you be a procrastinator? I'm mailing mine on Thursday because I'm in Kansas City at the moment.
climbski2

Mountain climber
Anchorage AK, Reno NV
Dec 10, 2013 - 08:47pm PT
Picked up card and wrap today. Just waiting for last thing to come in so I can send it on it's way.
adatesman

climber
philadelphia, pa
Dec 10, 2013 - 09:08pm PT
Wrapped and packed, going out tomorrow!
JOEY.F

Gym climber
It's not rocket surgery
Dec 10, 2013 - 09:38pm PT
Having fun with this, my giftee is kinda well known here....
johntp

Trad climber
socal
Dec 10, 2013 - 09:47pm PT
Okay, the stars have aligned. My lame ass gift goes out on Friday. Thanks Russ!

Damn wrapping and you people with opposable thumbs. Whatever happened to using a brown paper bag......

edit: just funning. I have thumbs but can't wrap a package to save my ass.
L

climber
California dreamin' on the farside of the world..
Dec 11, 2013 - 08:08am PT
UPS YANKS INNOCENT TACOIAN'S CHAIN; CAUSES MASSIVE DEPRESSION

That's what the NY Times front page should read today.

See yesterday, on my 115th (OCD, right?) checking of the UPS Tracking site, it showed a DELIVERY SCHEDULE CHANGE. I panicked for a second...until I read that my gift was to be delivered earlier than scheduled! TUESDAY instead of WEDNESDAY!

O frabjous day! Callooh! Callay!

Went to bed last night with visions of my giftee happily ripping open their package in a few short hours, singing praises to St. Nick for such a great Taco gig.

Got up and checked this thread.

Nothing.

Zilch.

Not a word from You Know Who (actually, you don't know Who, but I Do, and there was nary a word from 'em).

I sat here for a moment, trying to come to grips with the fact that I possibly got one of those giftees who likes to receive but HATES to post about it...or possibly I got one of those giftees who HATES everything they receive from UPS no matter what it is, just because they hate UPS (I understand this)...or maybe I even--gulp--got one of those giftees who, although posting on a climbing website, doesn't actually climb...in fact, pretends to climb, but really HATES all things climbing and would therefore find the largest part of my gift totally worthless and perhaps even consider trashing it. (Wait! wait! you can always use it as a paperweight! or a flowerpot! or a safety-pin for someone in Depends!)

Finally, in the middle of the madness, I checked the UPS Tracking site, and saw that those bustards had bungled their Early Delivery Notification planning and were back to delivering it today.

Whew. Now I'm gonna go make myself a big ol' cuppa Dingus' coffee and think about how OCD people like me might not aught to know about things like the UPS Tracking site...nawmean?

Leggs

Sport climber
Tucson, AZ
Dec 11, 2013 - 09:15am PT
I too am on the late bus on sending my gift out... YIKES!!! Where is the time going?!

I shall be a good elf by Friday!! (swear)

;)
C Diamond

Trad climber
Twin Cities, MN
Dec 12, 2013 - 03:06pm PT
As I arrived home from carting other people kids around in a large yellow limo, I came across the mail man. From him I received a package from Fish. I thought to myself, 'I have not ordered anything from Fish since before I climbed Zodiac last spring (TR is coming) WHY DO I HAVE A PACKAGE?'

Well it turns out that my Secret Santa gift arrived nice and early. I was worried that it would arrive while ice climbing in Colorado. Now I have quality luggage for the trip! Thank you Russ!


This reminds me, Now I just need to buy a gift and send it!

P.S. NOW my friends wish they had signed up for the exchange!
Crimpergirl

Sport climber
Boulder, Colorado!
Dec 12, 2013 - 03:11pm PT
^^ Sweet! I hope my giftee doesn't get his/her for a while. Hate to follow-up such a sweet gift!
Leggs

Sport climber
Tucson, AZ
Dec 12, 2013 - 03:19pm PT
^^ RIGHT?! Hahahahhahaha!!

Yay, C Diamond!! Have a safe trip.


~peace
Seamstress

Trad climber
Yacolt, WA
Dec 12, 2013 - 03:55pm PT
I made out like a bandit. Look at this generous haul. But be careful, it was guarded my a serpent.
Thank you, Secret Santa!

I think I am going to plant this snake in my squeamish 35 year old son's Christmas stocking. We are all still kids at heart!
BrassNuts

Trad climber
Save your a_s, reach for the brass...
Dec 12, 2013 - 05:53pm PT
Secret Santa gift mailed out today. Hohoho!
Seamstress

Trad climber
Yacolt, WA
Dec 12, 2013 - 06:05pm PT
I did see the beaded bracelet in the bottom of the box. Moonlight thought he was de-rattling a rattler. He's still eyeing the snake with suspicion. It really is an embarassing haul of gifts.....got me shopping to augment my box.
climbski2

Mountain climber
Anchorage AK, Reno NV
Dec 12, 2013 - 06:25pm PT
Stuff I ordered has been on delivery for 2 days now.. grrrr.

Never fear the recipient will get it before Christmas if I have to go find the truck in the distribution center myself.

Edit

So of course what shows up at my door a few minutes ago...

Secret Stuff!!

Since they took the time to wrap it I will wait till Christmas Eve to open.

(unless I run out of food) I'm thinking the silvery one might be edible.. scary.. It's from Colorado...

:)

climbski2

Mountain climber
Anchorage AK, Reno NV
Dec 12, 2013 - 06:54pm PT
and dripped off my gift

Liquid gift?

Hmmm.. not a bad idea.
climbski2

Mountain climber
Anchorage AK, Reno NV
Dec 12, 2013 - 07:00pm PT
Repost cause I figured it was a joke and I gave a straight answer..

"Nope, Santa Boulder CO." was deleted.


Re Toklas

I didn't but now I do :)

I only cook simple stuff on long trips in the mountains. If I ever cook at home it tends to be the same stuff.

If there is a joke.. it flew waaay over my head lol.. not unusual :)

Ahhh got it.. Peter Sellers movie...

Gads I'm sheltered. Square as can be..
climbski2

Mountain climber
Anchorage AK, Reno NV
Dec 12, 2013 - 07:24pm PT
And I was even more square back then..

I blame good parenting.
L

climber
California dreamin' on the farside of the world..
Dec 12, 2013 - 07:29pm PT
Ya know, I'm kinda hoping Secret Santa peeps will open their presents and post up before Christmas.

On the 21st I head out to Big Sur for 2 weeks and prolly won't be online much til after Jan. 5th (internet's spotty there, and the whales don't like it much anyway). And whiny little baby that I am, I want to see what everyone got! ;-)

Climbski2--EAT THAT SILVER THING NOW! Before it gets moldy...

Man, you guys are scoring good stuff. I loved the snake!
adatesman

climber
philadelphia, pa
Dec 12, 2013 - 08:49pm PT
"Can we open it, Daddy?" was just the thing I needed after a morning in the Emergency Room with her. Somehow she got the bathroom cabinet open (even I have trouble with it), found the jewelry cleaner and tried to apply it to her eyelashes.

Whoever my Secret Santa in NY is, you brought a happy ending to a very upsetting day. Hope you don't mind, but I'm going to savor it until the holiday as nothing could make me happier right now than to see my precious little girl happy after that unpleasantness. Which is exactly what you did.

:)



phylp

Trad climber
Millbrae, CA
Dec 12, 2013 - 09:03pm PT
SO MUCH FUN!
speelyei

Trad climber
Mohave County Arizona
Dec 13, 2013 - 12:25am PT
Mailed!
SCseagoat

Trad climber
Santa Cruz
Dec 13, 2013 - 07:00am PT
Dear Secret Santa. I do promise to post up a picture of your hard work and thoughtfulness. Right now I'm, like, 9 time zones away from home, but I'll be back before Christmas. So if you don't see my thanks for a bit, that's why!
Happy Holidays. Susan
justthemaid

climber
Jim Henson's Basement
Dec 13, 2013 - 08:59am PT
Mailed mine a few days ago. Recipient should have it Mon. Didn't think to keep my identity secret. I got someone who knows me, so my cover is blown as soon as the wrapping comes off anyhow.
frank wyman

Mountain climber
montana
Dec 13, 2013 - 12:49pm PT
Dealing with post office brings a teardrop "To my one good eye". After standing in line for 45 minutes or more to send a package to a P.O. box in the very same building, I had forgot that the brains that be in the goverment. All our mail in Helena goes to Great Falls for sorting and sending. So I asked the lady how long would it take to get a package delivered to a P.O. box 20 feet away? I was told it would be about 4 or 5 days....Really?...It's in the same building I'm standing in...I was also informed that I could ship it out "Next-Day-Air" for $60.00.. Where it would be taken to the airport and flown to Great Falls... and then flown back to Helena... and then delivered to a P.O. box 20 feet away..And for those of you that wonder why the Poatal Service is 10 Billion in dept every year...But Hey... Its Christmas..And My Giftee is worth it, and I hope everyone has a very "MERRY CHRISTMAS"..
Jacemullen

Trad climber
Oceanside
Dec 13, 2013 - 02:51pm PT
Hey C-Diamond, Glad you enjoyed it. Now go take it somewhere cool and break that bad boy in!
johntp

Trad climber
socal
Dec 13, 2013 - 03:10pm PT
Whew!

Just back from the PO. Package sent!

Actually, I was a bit surprised at the name I drew. Would not have expected this person to jump in the pool.

Thanks for playing! I could not fit the iPad in the box, so you got a lame ass gift instead. Better luck next year.

Splash....

edit: yeah, it is not wrapped. If I had to do that you would get it next June.
Brandon-

climber
The Granite State.
Dec 13, 2013 - 03:12pm PT
I'm totally behind schedule, mine will go out either tomorrow or Monday.

Work slowed down, and now I'm broke, so I had to think a bit on what to send. Should be a good gift despite sourcing it from within my home. :)
SCseagoat

Trad climber
Santa Cruz
Dec 13, 2013 - 03:25pm PT
Should be a good gift despite sourcing it from within my home. :)

Those are the best kind....and with work having slowed down at least you aren't sourcing it from someone else's home....;)

Susan
Brandon-

climber
The Granite State.
Dec 13, 2013 - 03:30pm PT
Lol, I'm no tweaker Susan!
happiegrrrl

Trad climber
www.climbaddictdesigns.com
Dec 13, 2013 - 04:22pm PT
... my cover is blown as soon as the wrapping comes off...

Haha - I read this post JUST a few minutes before the mail delivery person came!

And yes, I would have recognized Skip's art style even if it had been sent anonymously. It is a GORGEOUS suncatcher. A dragonfly with delicate metalwork as if he had alighted on a blade of grass, with a glass selection that mimics golden hour sunlight. There is more detail - and the craftsmanship is exquisite - but it's just a little too dark out to take a picture that will do the piece justice. I will post tomorrow.

I am placing it in a window of the bedroom I am using this winter, with morning light filtering through.

Thank You Santa Skip!
feralfae

Boulder climber
Montana
Dec 13, 2013 - 05:04pm PT
I have the best Secret Santa in the entire known universe!!!
Of many things that would make me smile, any old books on the Winds, and there was one.
A biner from a cave in the Winds, and there was one. (I have checked a lot of those caves, so I am very impressed with this find, since a lot of those caves have been pretty well explored.

Best, best, some pottery shards, and I will have great fun doing diagnostics on them and figuring out their origin. Some already look like Utah Stamped Gray shards.

This is just the best box, and now the bar is raised considerably, and I will most definitely step up my game next year. I plead two hospital stays in the midst of Secret Santa, but I did send a precious something.

Neebs, I have questions about this secretcy stuff that is going on, but I am mostly just totally delighted with everything I have rummaged through in the box so far. This is a wonderful Christmas, sort of like extra chocolate on the brownies. :)

So, Secret Santa for feralfae, you are the best, and this is just a very delightful turn of events. Looking forward to visits in the new year. Thanks a million times, and you know what for. LOL
* < twinkles > *
feralfae
johntp

Trad climber
socal
Dec 13, 2013 - 05:13pm PT
^^^

That's what this is about!

YAY! (TM ekatskeezerkayakingandallaroundaces)
L

climber
California dreamin' on the farside of the world..
Dec 13, 2013 - 05:17pm PT
This thread is making me smile big time!
feralfae

Boulder climber
Montana
Dec 13, 2013 - 05:57pm PT
A further note. . .
A good bit of my archaeology work while at NU was out in the Four Corners area, mostly working on Anasazi sites down around Durango and up past Mesa Verde, out of Cortez, so some of the gifts from my Amazing and Brilliant Secret Santa really resonate with me, and bring back wonderful memories of interesting and informative site work.

And over somewhere, someone posted some pix from the Sweetwater, where Jim Judge, director of Canyon de Chelly, was born a long time ago. He was a super expert on Anasazi and related cultures. But the post elsewhere and the nice things from SS brought back memories of him from 30 years ago. He was a great mentor of mine.

Stuff from the Winds. I will maybe go down home for Christmas if the docs will let me go play. If not, I have reading to do, thank you very much. :)

Secret Santa, I have tears in my eyes. This is such a loving and thoughtful box full of stuff, and I have not unwrapped anything yet. Just wow and many thanks. I think you had some coaching, eh? :)

Serendipity abounds . . . I am very blessed.

Thank you again Secret Santa. I am saving some stuff that is well-wrapped stuff for Christmas. :) You are a great Secret Santa.

This is just greater than fantastic!

feralfae
johntp

Trad climber
socal
Dec 13, 2013 - 06:01pm PT
^^^^

Just recalled my package. The bar is too high. Should have gotten a bigger box.
Michelle

Social climber
1187 Hunterwasser
Dec 13, 2013 - 06:25pm PT
I got mine!! Due to top secret considerations though, I cannot divulge all the contents as yet. Thanks Jefe!

Mine ships tomorrow, hope my person likes it (and it fits!)

neebee

Social climber
calif/texas
Dec 13, 2013 - 06:40pm PT
hey there say, all.... mine goes out on monday...

unless i get unexpectedly snowed in by bad ices, etc...

but i WILL FIND a way... there are a few seasoned drivers, far better than i'd be--that will help... if needs be... :)
climbski2

Mountain climber
Anchorage AK, Reno NV
Dec 13, 2013 - 07:32pm PT
Yay. I'll be mailing it out tomorrow! I sure can't top feralfae's gift but I'm thinking it will be enjoyed!

Excited!
Lynne Leichtfuss

Sport climber
moving thru
Dec 13, 2013 - 09:14pm PT
Rarely get sick but my Dr. told me "tis the season" which is why I haven't been able to keep up with yo all here on the ST Secret Santa. Tonight, reading all your Whoo's and Wow's, I feel so much better. The Taco cure along with antibiotics and cough meds finally kicking in. :) (Tonight my prayers going out big time to all who are not feeling well.)

We are an amazing collection of grown up kids, which is one of many reasons I LOVE this place.




You Lurkers and Prognosticators and Wishers should do this next year. It's a Trip. Love and Joy to all along with Season's Greetings. A Better Lynne.





Captain...or Skully

climber
Dec 13, 2013 - 10:30pm PT
I sent mine from someone else's town even.....super secret, huh?
JOEY.F

Gym climber
It's not rocket surgery
Dec 13, 2013 - 10:36pm PT
The sleigh stopped by my house YES! I'll wait till the 24th to open it at least I'll try. I'd like to post a pic but nothing happens on the iPhone when I push "finish"..any ideas? at any rate Thanks to my Santa !
feralfae

Boulder climber
Montana
Dec 13, 2013 - 10:41pm PT
Captain Skelly, I am taking notes for next year.

Hi Lynnie! Glad to know you are feeing better. Have wonderful holidays!

This entire Secret Santa fun keeps getting better and better with every post!

HAPPY SOLSTICE, Merry Christmas, Happy ever holiday that happens in December.

Merry, merry for every pagan ritual, astronomical event, and snowshoe rabbit. For every snowy owl. For every beautiful winter bird, but mostly for Tundra Swans.

I wish you all the best of everything this holiday season, and special {{{hugs}}} to all the wonderful and warm people here who have helped to hold me together these last 22 months. Thank you.

All right, back to playing now. I have presents to warp and cards to write and fun stuff.
Oh, and I brought up a bottle of wine from Doug's wine cellar, and I am going to open it tomorrow to have with moose steaks. I also brought up a bottle of champagne, so it will be chilled and handy when friends drop in.

Happy Holidays!

* < twinkles > *
feralfae




Gene

climber
Dec 13, 2013 - 10:55pm PT
I'd like to thank Steve Grossman for helping me in this endeavor. He graciously agreed to ship the Sentinel DVD to my recipient and then emailed me that said giftee had already ordered it. He offered an equally cool alternative and has sent it on its merry way.

This is service above and beyond. Thanks much, Steve. I appreciate your help. Way cool! Happy holidays All!!

Cheers,
g
climbski2

Mountain climber
Anchorage AK, Reno NV
Dec 13, 2013 - 10:56pm PT
Climbski2--EAT THAT SILVER THING NOW! Before it gets moldy...

Wasn't gunna let it get moldy. I refrigerated.

But then just a bit ago I decided I wanted a snack and was rummaging through the fridge..

What the heck

Opened the silver thing and .. Yep Home made fruitcake.

Have had a few bites now.. Yummy! More cakey than some I have eaten but solid and sweet and tasty with chocolate chips too.


No Buzz yet .. Think I'm safe.

I'm just trying to be funny.. SS Thankyou. I really am enjoying it!
SteveW

Trad climber
The state of confusion
Dec 13, 2013 - 10:59pm PT

Lynnie
It wuzn't from me!@!!!
Lynne Leichtfuss

Sport climber
moving thru
Dec 13, 2013 - 11:19pm PT
I am excited to open it, but it needs to be the exact right moment..... and only the elves can reveal that piece of information. Will be mailing my Santa gift tomorrow and hoping it will be enjoyed to the max.

And today is December 13th with just 11 more days til Christmas Eve. Lovely!!! Tree is decorating, cookies are on the list to bake. Menus of festive breakfasts and dinners and lots of great nibbles to tide us over being created.

Getting out the gift wrap, real table cloths and napkins. Making wreaths and center pieces from the trees and plants that surround us. Writing cards, making calls long past due.....and

Thinking of Dan and all the loved ones not with us, but appreciating to the max all those that are here and have given us their love and friendship.

Edit: Feralfae, my thoughts of joy and peace along with prayers are with you always.
Captain...or Skully

climber
Dec 13, 2013 - 11:32pm PT
I like the solstice too. I'm biased though...it's my birthday. Smiles!
Lynne Leichtfuss

Sport climber
moving thru
Dec 13, 2013 - 11:40pm PT
So Skully, lots to enjoy today and to look forward to tomorrow. Cheers, lynne.
speelyei

Trad climber
Mohave County Arizona
Dec 14, 2013 - 10:45am PT
The Museum, Thanks so much for the box of gifts! My kids talked me into opening it right away. They liked the stickers best, but I have the feeling the CDs will be my favorite!

happiegrrrl

Trad climber
www.climbaddictdesigns.com
Dec 14, 2013 - 12:52pm PT

Here is a picture of the suncatcher that Secret Santa Skip sent! Because of flash, the glass isn't showing as nicely as it does in real life. It really does give the impression of a dragonfly on a marshy reed in a beautifully colorful sunset.
Andy Fielding

Trad climber
UK
Dec 14, 2013 - 01:01pm PT
Grrr - Resized a bit smaller coming....

happiegrrrl looking at your picture I think you mean Brrr!!
happiegrrrl

Trad climber
www.climbaddictdesigns.com
Dec 14, 2013 - 01:08pm PT
Yes -we are having a good snow day today. Could be getting a lot

L

climber
California dreamin' on the farside of the world..
Dec 14, 2013 - 01:17pm PT
Wow Happie--that lightcatcher is soooooooo beautiful! That Skip has a rare talent fer sure, doesn't she.

It's snowing like crazy here in Westchester County...really pretty, really cold, just the kind of day to sit inside with a cuppa hot cocoa, a roaring fire, and a good book. Or possibly the Taco. ;-)

Lynne, I've had the most horrible, debilitating chest cold for over a week, too. Stayed in bed for 3 days straight (for a friggin' chest cold, no less!) Luckily, I caught this thing the day after I'd gotten my Secret Santa gift off to UPS, so I didn't have to worry about that at least. Hope you're feeling much better and are totally well soon.

I'm lovin' the photos everyone's posting up. It's really feeling like the Christmas spirit has found a place on the Taco. (Even Ron's on here! Whooop!)

Happy Snowing!
Lynne Leichtfuss

Sport climber
moving thru
Dec 14, 2013 - 02:47pm PT
What a blessing our Post Office is. Saturday morning and only 2 people in line ahead of me, plus the staff is helpful and cheerful. My gift is on the way. :) Should be there by the 21st. :)

L, sending good cheer and prayers your way. Heal soon. It's a crazy bug. Haven't been this sick in forever.

johntp

Trad climber
socal
Dec 14, 2013 - 03:06pm PT
Happie-

Nice view thru that window. The gift isn't too bad either.

Cheers!
happiegrrrl

Trad climber
www.climbaddictdesigns.com
Dec 14, 2013 - 04:49pm PT
It actually is nice. The house is about 150 years old, and so has the slanted roof with smallish windows that take up the wall height. It is near the road, there are huge Hemlock and Ceder trees between the house and road. Across the road is a wetland,under stewardship of Mohonk Preserve.

A very pretty place with lots of other old farm houses - if I was going buy a house in the area, I would definitely choose this side of the ridge over the New Paltz/Gardiner side(unless I was mega-monied and could get land down near the Awosting Reserve area).
Nilepoc

Big Wall climber
Tx
Dec 14, 2013 - 04:57pm PT
ARRRghh?! I obviously do not mail things very often. I had no idea that the post office was so lazy as to only by open until noon.

Now I am down to the wire. Monday the gift goes out, I promise.

It has been great to see all the gifts arriving and to see the christmas cheer exhibited by SuperTopo Santas.

Melissa

Gym climber
berkeley, ca
Dec 14, 2013 - 06:48pm PT
Happie…your gift is beautiful.
the museum

Trad climber
Rapid City
Dec 14, 2013 - 07:23pm PT
Thanks Supertopo Secret Santa! Nice photo for framing by 10b4me!

the museum and mrs. museum

johntp

Trad climber
socal
Dec 14, 2013 - 07:34pm PT
The santa sleigh arrived today. Gonna wait till the 25th to open it.

museum- that is a nice photo
L

climber
California dreamin' on the farside of the world..
Dec 14, 2013 - 07:43pm PT
^^^^beautiful photo!
SteveW

Trad climber
The state of confusion
Dec 14, 2013 - 08:30pm PT

Lsanta, you get better!!!!
Abend

Social climber
Dec 14, 2013 - 11:00pm PT
I received a beautiful gift from Santa Speelyei today. Custom artwork celebrating the things I love. It came framed and ready to hang. Thank you for being so thoughtful and generous!
JOEY.F

Gym climber
It's not rocket surgery
Dec 15, 2013 - 12:09pm PT
Nice day today! Only a week till the days get longer. I got up early, but didn't see any meteors. But under the tree is the only gift so far...
Many great gifts going around, Skip your art is beautiful, and the awesome photo 10b, and more.
L if you're heading to Big Sur this week it should be shorts weather for a few days.
L

climber
California dreamin' on the farside of the world..
Dec 15, 2013 - 12:37pm PT
"L if you're heading to Big Sur this week it should be shorts weather for a few days."

WORD, Joey! ;-)
Leggs

Sport climber
Tucson, AZ
Dec 15, 2013 - 12:40pm PT
GREAT photo, 10b, as always!
nita

Social climber
chica de chico, I don't claim to be a daisy.
Dec 15, 2013 - 12:41pm PT
The museum!!.................. Beautiful gift......

ps, ... Good to see your name, how in the sam hill are you?... White Christmas at the casa?

Cheers..
nita...(-;
10b4me

Ice climber
Bishop/Flagstaff
Dec 15, 2013 - 12:44pm PT
Thank you The Museum, Laura, Lisa Mae, Nita, Johntp and the Secret Santa.
Glad you like it.
Aya K

Trad climber
Boulder, CO!
Dec 15, 2013 - 07:25pm PT
So I'm on the slacker bus and my gift is going out tomorrow end of story (even if I have to send someone to the post office for me, it's going - it's been wrapped and ready and I've just been too busy working and skiing...), but I got mine yesterday. I was only able to hold out until today to open it, and I'm floored. Like literally sitting on the floor, floored. This is amazing.

Thanks Edge. I already know a few things I'm going to store in there.



phylp

Trad climber
Millbrae, CA
Dec 15, 2013 - 07:30pm PT
Wow, what beautiful gifts from the heart from all the Santas. I'm so impressed by the thoughtfullness of people's presents.

Phyl
nature

climber
Boulder, CO
Dec 15, 2013 - 08:53pm PT
at least you were honest about being busy with the skiing part ;)
Aya K

Trad climber
Boulder, CO!
Dec 15, 2013 - 09:10pm PT
Pipe down over there. It's not my fault the slacker post office wasn't open today. What else was I going to do but ski? Sit around watching football?
johntp

Trad climber
socal
Dec 15, 2013 - 09:15pm PT
What else was I going to do but ski? Sit around watching football?

So you were skiing while I was sitting on the couch sucking suds and watching the Cowboys blow it? jeez, get a life....
nature

climber
Boulder, CO
Dec 15, 2013 - 09:28pm PT
I was sitting around sucking suds and watching a 23-0 ass whipping.

Thus I have a life
Aya K

Trad climber
Boulder, CO!
Dec 15, 2013 - 09:40pm PT
Well I, for one, am definitely convinced, nature. Definitely.
nature

climber
Boulder, CO
Dec 15, 2013 - 09:42pm PT
If Homer had a Sierra Nevada, 12th Man flag, and a plate of seared Salmon then you might be onto something.
Aya K

Trad climber
Boulder, CO!
Dec 15, 2013 - 09:46pm PT
DAMN YOU BRINGING SALMON INTO THIS. Cheater.











































































now im hungry
Captain...or Skully

climber
Dec 15, 2013 - 10:22pm PT
This is SO cool.So very cool.
Strider

Trad climber
ಠ_ಠ
Topic Author's Reply - Dec 15, 2013 - 11:24pm PT
WOW. This has been such an amazing year with so many amazing and thoughtful people participating.

I also must say, this is the first year with almost ZERO problems so far that have been mentioned to me! Good job everyone saying true to your commitment and getting things done.

Please remember you need your gifts should be in the mail by tomorrow to ensure as timely delivery as possible. If you anticipate any problems, let me know. Much better to get ahead of potential problems and conflicts than procrastinate and end up with hurt feelings. We are all very kind and understanding people here and sometimes life doesn't cooperate which is understandable and no biggie as long as you let me know so I can tell your giftee.

Once again, you folks are amazing! I hope everyone is having Happy Holidays and thanks again for making this the best Secret Santa year ever!

-n
feralfae

Boulder climber
Montana
Dec 16, 2013 - 12:26am PT
Thank you, Kind Strider, for making this possible.

It is rather like being around a cosmic Christmas tree, with everyone excited and happy about each other's presents. Just entirely too much fun!
I wish you happy Holidays, Merry Christmas, a Happy New Year, Happy Chinese New Year, and a wonderful day for any other days of celebration you may wish to toss into the merriment. Solstice, of course.

:)

Thank you!
feralfae
Seamstress

Trad climber
Yacolt, WA
Dec 16, 2013 - 02:25pm PT
Alleluia. The custome designed item arrived on Saturday, and it is at the post office now, on its way to spread joy. Now I can go on vacation with a clear mind.
Leggs

Sport climber
Tucson, AZ
Dec 16, 2013 - 02:54pm PT
Art piece was completed yesterday, but still have a couple of things to finish up before sending off... tomorrow.

Fingers crossed it arrives in time!


*sheepish elf*


:)
Mark Sensenbach

climber
CA
Dec 16, 2013 - 03:15pm PT
Got our gift and we are all really stoked. Waiting till x-mas to open. -mark amy max and mick
Brandon-

climber
The Granite State.
Dec 16, 2013 - 04:56pm PT

Thanks!!!

I don't know if you sent your gift before or after I announced that I'm going to learn how to climb a wall,but you nailed it!

Thanks so much, you rock!

Hope you get something equally sweet from your Santa!

Totally kick ass gift.
Brandon-

climber
The Granite State.
Dec 16, 2013 - 05:16pm PT
Nilepoc

Big Wall climber
Tx
Dec 16, 2013 - 05:19pm PT
Leggs

Sport climber
Tucson, AZ
Dec 16, 2013 - 05:25pm PT
Who was your Santa, Brandon??

;)
Brandon-

climber
The Granite State.
Dec 16, 2013 - 05:29pm PT
I have no idea who my santa is, but it's a kick ass gift!
justthemaid

climber
Jim Henson's Basement
Dec 16, 2013 - 06:12pm PT
Mine showed up today.

Secret Santa instructions say I am not to open until Xmas

MEH!!!!!
Brandon-

climber
The Granite State.
Dec 16, 2013 - 06:24pm PT
It wasn't Mark.
portent

Social climber
your mom's house
Dec 16, 2013 - 06:38pm PT

Haven't even opened the box and I'm already loving my Super Secret Santa...

Kovar
neebee

Social climber
calif/texas
Dec 16, 2013 - 07:03pm PT
hey there say, .... wow, the weather was a bit 'scary as to slush road'
but all went well!!! and then, no snow and then of course, the driveway
was showel'able...

sooooooo:

secret santa gift is IN THE MAIL...

should show up monday... hmmmm, wonder where it is going?

part of the fun:
heard tell, though from the ol' reindeer, that it is an
OPEN ON CHRISTMAS EVE--FUN, adding a but of

suspension... well, suspense, as it is suspended in
cheery christmas ambiance, with perhaps good food, and company...




WILL BE THERE FOR MONDAY--so it was said...


:)
feralfae

Boulder climber
Montana
Dec 16, 2013 - 07:22pm PT
Hi neebee!

Congratulations, with all you have going on, including the weather, for getting your Secret Santa gift into the delivery system!

Hurray!

feralfae

Edge

Trad climber
Boulder, CO
Dec 16, 2013 - 07:48pm PT
Thanks Edge.

Aya, your welcome! Glad you liked it.

When Strider sent me your name and address I was also floored; I drive right past there a couple times a week on my way to the shop. I was tempted to drop it off in person , but thought that might be presumptuous. Besides, it only took the USPS one day to deliver it, after sending it to Denver first for sorting (in their infinite wisdom?).

I love seeing everyone's stoke about all these special gifts. What a great virtual community! Happy holidaze!
neebee

Social climber
calif/texas
Dec 16, 2013 - 08:00pm PT
hey there say, ferafae! wow, just sent you an email...

had one more thing i had no box for, but was able to get it out this eve...
no snow and nice clear crisp eve... rest of the week, may? snow'up again, :)


wow, ekat:

i know, it SURE is an eye-catcher for sure... looks like a bumper sticker
or SHIRT log, at that...

;)
BrassNuts

Trad climber
Save your a_s, reach for the brass...
Dec 16, 2013 - 08:03pm PT
Hey Edge, really nice piece! I've never worked with that type of maple, gotta git some...
neebee

Social climber
calif/texas
Dec 16, 2013 - 08:06pm PT
hey there, say, mark...

i got those SAME red wooden beads on my tree, :)

(bought them in CA, when i was home with my folks, after my life-in-south-texas fell apart... )...


anders-- it is always fun to hear about loki and his adventures...
i remember post, from way back, too, all about him and yard, too...


say, all--so wonderful to see all the gifts and fun shares!
makes it all like a home...

*ohmy, HOPE the daughters EYES :o WERE OKAY, :o
(I FORGOT, very sorry, WHO? posted that emergency-room story)...



and edge, wow, how funny!!! just like frank's story:
a GIFT so nearby, SENT out, just to come to it's local
'next door' BOX, :))


hugs and god bless to all!!!
THANK YOU AGAIN, NICK!!!! AND say hey there to my brother matt,
of course, whenever you see him!
(let him know i sent him cookies--will be there for monday, i think??)
Edge

Trad climber
Boulder, CO
Dec 16, 2013 - 08:25pm PT
Hey Edge, really nice piece! I've never worked with that type of maple, gotta git some...

Brassnuts, that was from one of the handful of boards I crammed into my storage POD when we left NH. If you find any locally, I'd love to know where; I haven't had any need to track some down yet. When I do, I'll let you know.
johntp

Trad climber
socal
Dec 16, 2013 - 08:55pm PT
Haven't even opened the box and I'm already loving my Super Secret Santa...

Hey, back off bucko. I don't go that way. NTTIAWWT.
Nilepoc

Big Wall climber
Tx
Dec 16, 2013 - 09:00pm PT


feralfae

Boulder climber
Montana
Dec 16, 2013 - 09:52pm PT
My Super Secret Santa, is right here in Helena.

I know there was no program to save on shipping, but this is a really neat happening that some of the santas are just around the corner.

It makes it even better.

fae
Crimpergirl

Sport climber
Boulder, Colorado!
Dec 16, 2013 - 09:55pm PT
Oh oH Oh oH!

My gift arrived today! I fully admit I got more excited trying to extricate the wrapped gift from the box than I thought I would. BrassNuts is insisting I wait to open it though. Gah!

We'll see. He can't be home all the time - heh heh. ;)

It's from PocoLoco so you know it's going to be awesome! :)
Aya K

Trad climber
Boulder, CO!
Dec 16, 2013 - 11:01pm PT
I sent mine today. 20 minutes late getting to my first after lunch appointment, but hey, that was more important right?

Edge, come over for dinner some time :)
the museum

Trad climber
Rapid City
Dec 16, 2013 - 11:48pm PT
nita- all is well and a little snow yet..it might be gone by next wednesday though! happy holidays!

the museum

zip

Trad climber
pacific beach, ca
Dec 17, 2013 - 08:58am PT
Sorry for my lengthy delay in getting back to everyone.

I now have a girlfriend, and this whole being in love thing is pretty amazing.

I am still accepting donations to pay for a gift for Strider.

Please contact me off site for info.
neebee

Social climber
calif/texas
Dec 17, 2013 - 09:04am PT
hey there say, nilepoc... oh my, what a NICE dog...

is said-dog, on the dog thread, yet? :))

is it greyhound?? or whippet???

my patty ann marie, has that in her... but her shar-pei and lab,
hide it most of the times... her behavior though, gives her away, ;))


zip--hope you get some folks for this...
will hope to add to the nick-thank you, but i can't 'til later in
january, but will send a tiny trinket ... by mail, is only about 2.50...
and i can handle that then... :)

say, so nice to see the new girl friend in your life,
happy new year and may it blossom very well and grow nice!
Nilepoc

Big Wall climber
Tx
Dec 17, 2013 - 09:54am PT
Neebee

Indeed he is in the dog thread hitching a ride in a crash pad at enchanted rock in Texas.

Saxa is a whippet and is named after my graduate school, his full name is Hoya Saxa.

Sorry for the drift, and now back to secret Santa gift giving and receiving.
Leggs

Sport climber
Tucson, AZ
Dec 17, 2013 - 10:00am PT
Sorry for my lengthy delay in getting back to everyone.

I now have a girlfriend, and this whole being in love thing is pretty amazing.

Awwwww, Zip... that's awesome. Merry Christmas, man!

;)
TYeary

Social climber
State of decay
Dec 17, 2013 - 01:08pm PT
I sent my gift out today. I also received one too. I will wait to open it on Christmas. Photo's coming ....
TY
Brandon-

climber
The Granite State.
Dec 17, 2013 - 02:00pm PT
My gift is in the mail as of today.
Lynne Leichtfuss

Sport climber
moving thru
Dec 17, 2013 - 03:28pm PT
I've been staring at my gift for 4 days now....don't know how much longer I can hold out..........:)
adatesman

climber
philadelphia, pa
Dec 17, 2013 - 03:53pm PT
So much for being on the "Nice" list... After 3 hours in the car with an overtired 3 year old alternately screaming and singing "Jingle Bells", I treated myself to opening my gift.

I don't know who tipped you off, Happie, but I literally have been dropping hints to my wife for the past 2 months that I wanted to do a coffee mug purge and replace a large number of nondescript trade-show mugs with a small number of really cool mugs with a story behind them. *I ABSOLUTELY LOVE IT!!!!*, and can't wait to give it a test drive tomorrow.

Do you have any particular connection to its maker? The card you included says they're in VA, so curious how you found them.



(on a side note, said screaming 3 year old was over the moon happy you sent her bubble wrap as a present, and opted for popping bubbles rather than sitting still for a pic with the mug. After 3 hours in the car, I can't say I blame her... :) )

Brandon-

climber
The Granite State.
Dec 17, 2013 - 03:55pm PT
Long live bubble wrap!
adatesman

climber
philadelphia, pa
Dec 17, 2013 - 04:12pm PT
The mail just came, and what's this??? A present for my daughter from my STSS!!! Thank you so much, Happie, that's beyond sweet of you. :)


My wife's away for the week and I'm beyond helpless when it comes to girly things, so assuming they're hair bands? She's going to love them. Fantastic way to reuse vintage buttons, BTW. :)
happiegrrrl

Trad climber
www.climbaddictdesigns.com
Dec 17, 2013 - 08:15pm PT
Yes, Adatesman - they are ponytail holders. When I saw the picture you posted after her tough day, with her hair in a ponytail, and I thought she might like to have some sparkly hair doodads.

I realized after sending that you might not know what they are - but didn't know how to address the issue... hahah.

About the vintage buttons - I've been making ponytail holders from them since about 1998. My very first client was the Henri Bendel boutique on 5th Avenue in NYC(and it's all been downhill from there - hahah. Not really, but the concept doesn't work well for wholesale, so I sell online.
Leggs

Sport climber
Tucson, AZ
Dec 18, 2013 - 10:21am PT
Got mine mailed out yesterday...
I was all giddy at the post office, which is the BEST part of this experience.
Gift should arrive across the country by Friday!


~leggs
Rockin' Gal

Trad climber
Boulder
Dec 18, 2013 - 11:41am PT
I got a package from Amazon today. I don't remember ordering anything.
L

climber
California dreamin' on the farside of the world..
Dec 18, 2013 - 01:56pm PT
Exact same thing here, Kath!

I'm so excited...I jus' can't hide it...I'm about ta lose control and I think I like it! ;-)

drljefe

climber
El Presidio San Augustin del Tucson
Dec 18, 2013 - 07:23pm PT
I arrived home to a package at my door.
It was addressed to "Santarelli".
I was amped!
Then I realized the address was my neighbor's and his girlfriend's last name is Santarelli.
Oh well!

Santarelli....
Like if the Fonz moonlighted as Santa.

Wow, some really nice gifts have been posted up.
I'm glad my giftee finally posted that she got the present.
zip

Trad climber
pacific beach, ca
Dec 18, 2013 - 07:28pm PT
Strider's gift was mailed out today, and will definitely arrive on time.

Thanks to all who have donated, and committed to donate.

JOEY.F

Gym climber
It's not rocket surgery
Dec 18, 2013 - 10:36pm PT
This is big fun!
pocoloco1

Social climber
The Chihuahua Desert
Dec 19, 2013 - 03:51pm PT
CG delivery bump
Thanks to Lynne,Brandon-,neebee and OED (Outsourced Elf Delivery,inc.)
10b4me

Ice climber
Bishop/Flagstaff
Dec 19, 2013 - 08:03pm PT
Brandon-

climber
The Granite State.
Dec 19, 2013 - 08:06pm PT
Holy crap, that travelled across the country really fast!

The syrup came from a clients stand of sugar maples.

Merry Christmas!
10b4me

Ice climber
Bishop/Flagstaff
Dec 19, 2013 - 08:17pm PT
Thanks, Brandon.
Edge

Trad climber
Boulder, CO
Dec 19, 2013 - 08:21pm PT
^^^^ that gift makes me just a tad homesick.

Aspen syrup doesn't have the same je ne sais quoi.
Crimpergirl

Sport climber
Boulder, Colorado!
Dec 19, 2013 - 08:22pm PT
Delivery still sits unwrapped as BrassNuts watches me closely. :) I guess it'll be a Christmas morning unveiling the gift Pocoloco. I've fondled it greatly...can't wait to unwrap it! :)
Brandon-

climber
The Granite State.
Dec 19, 2013 - 08:23pm PT
No, thank you! It was too funny when I saw the return address on my gift.
johntp

Trad climber
socal
Dec 19, 2013 - 08:25pm PT
Oooh! Gear; nice catch.
10b4me

Ice climber
Bishop/Flagstaff
Dec 19, 2013 - 08:32pm PT

Delivery still sits unwrapped as BrassNuts watches me closely. :)

That's hilarious, Callie.

Brandon, I was surprised how fast my gift got to you. It only took two days.
I thought the postal system didn't work.
Crimpergirl

Sport climber
Boulder, Colorado!
Dec 19, 2013 - 08:35pm PT
I'm going to make a strong push for an Eve unwrapping. We'll see if I'm successful!
johntp

Trad climber
socal
Dec 19, 2013 - 10:38pm PT
I'm going to make a strong push for an Eve unwrapping. We'll see if I'm successful!

Try a strong single malt.
Rockin' Gal

Trad climber
Boulder
Dec 19, 2013 - 10:44pm PT
For some reason, presents were opened tonight. And, I'm glad I did as I now have reading material for the airplane ride to Milwaukee. Thank you, STSS!
happiegrrrl

Trad climber
www.climbaddictdesigns.com
Dec 19, 2013 - 10:48pm PT
I'm going to make a strong push for an Eve unwrapping. We'll see if I'm successful!

Try a strong single malt.


or shred the paper and gnaw on a corner of the box and blame kitty!
portent

Social climber
your mom's house
Dec 20, 2013 - 09:53am PT
I'm going to make a strong push for an Eve unwrapping. We'll see if I'm successful!

Try a strong single malt.


or shred the paper and gnaw on a corner of the box and blame kitty!

or try a strong single malt ;)
pocoloco1

Social climber
The Chihuahua Desert
Dec 20, 2013 - 12:00pm PT
Pull out the Glenlivet,give BN a couple of hooks(10:00 am) and then get busy with that wrapping paper.
H

Mountain climber
there and back again
Dec 20, 2013 - 12:45pm PT
I have been having fun checking out everyone's comments. Had to go back a few pages to see that my package arrived. Faster than I thought it would.

Happy holidays everyone.
Melissa

Gym climber
berkeley, ca
Dec 20, 2013 - 02:32pm PT
I'm headed to PA for a week, so I'm not going to see what Santa brought me until after Christmas. It will be a fun thing to look forward to on return.
neebee

Social climber
calif/texas
Dec 20, 2013 - 02:38pm PT
hey there say, all... i love checking in here everyday to see what's going on, and where things are:

under tree, or on the way, or opened, or saved for the christmas eve... and then, there is OPENED, whatever condtions are, it is always very nice
happy fun...



thanks for all the shares...

Crimpergirl

Sport climber
Boulder, Colorado!
Dec 20, 2013 - 03:02pm PT
Pull out the Glenlivet,give BN a couple of hooks(10:00 am) and then get busy with that wrapping paper.

I will attempt to execute this plan this evening. Wish me luck! :)
MisterE

climber
Dec 20, 2013 - 03:31pm PT
I thought mine was here and awaiting my pick-up at the Post Office, but it's just some patches from Lucky Pink...unless Lucky Pink IS my Secret Santa?

I'm corn-fused...
Sonic

Trad climber
Boulder, Co
Dec 20, 2013 - 04:22pm PT
Ran into some difficulties, but items are shipped today and should be there December 24!!!

Merry Christmas everyone
pocoloco1

Social climber
The Chihuahua Desert
Dec 20, 2013 - 04:27pm PT
I received a package from Secret Santa of the Great White North.
Thanks SSotGWN.
.... no peeking until Christmas.
L

climber
California dreamin' on the farside of the world..
Dec 20, 2013 - 05:24pm PT
I'm flying out to sunny CA tomorrow morning; since nothing's arrived from my STSS yet, looks like opening and posting is going to have to wait until January 7th when I return.

Happy Holidays, one and all!
Andy Fielding

Trad climber
UK
Dec 20, 2013 - 08:03pm PT
Just got home from an all day meeting in Paris and I have a box waiting for me on the kitchen table. I'm in desperate need of some sleep so will have to crash. More tomorrow :)
johntp

Trad climber
socal
Dec 20, 2013 - 08:08pm PT
Just got home from an all day meeting in Paris

Tough job but someone has to do it. Thanks for taking one for the team.
happiegrrrl

Trad climber
www.climbaddictdesigns.com
Dec 20, 2013 - 08:15pm PT
My sister works for a company with a Paris office, and she goes there frequently. Being a long-time lover of Paris, she has a keychain with a replica of the Eifel Tower as a little dangle decoration.

She has a young man, a friend of her son, who uses a room inher basement as an office, and the young man has a four-year old daughter who comes to the house some afternoons.

The little girl noticed the keyring on the kitchen counter and seemed very amazed. My sister said "Do you like that? Do you know what it is?"

Little girl answered affirmatively, but still had a quizzical look. My sister asked what was the matter, and she replied "I just always thought it was bigger."


Out of the mouths of babes!
adatesman

climber
philadelphia, pa
Dec 20, 2013 - 08:40pm PT
Crap. Haven't seen an "I got it!" post from my giftee and misplaced the USPS tracking info. Some of you lurkers mind checking in? :)
Michelle

Social climber
1187 Hunterwasser
Dec 20, 2013 - 08:54pm PT
Yep, I had gotten mine but didn't want to post until mine was sent. Should make it there Saturday (or so the USPS says). Here's some pics too!


I LOVE this little painting! I put it right up on the wall immediately.



Darn tootin' I need more biners!! Gonna take this up on LT with Brandon on our big adventure. I got something else but sadly, I don't have a shot of it as it may be construed as inappropriate for the taco :)

Thanks Jefe!!


I love all these awesome gifts everyone is getting and sending. Hope my person digs theirs!

phylp

Trad climber
Millbrae, CA
Dec 20, 2013 - 09:04pm PT
Checking in - not lurking, just travelling. Won't get back until Christmas Eve to collect mail.
Phyl
happiegrrrl

Trad climber
www.climbaddictdesigns.com
Dec 20, 2013 - 09:08pm PT
I don't want to make anyone jealous but....

there was a names mix-up and I ended up receiving gifts from TWO Supertopo Secret Santas....! Of course I feel a little guilty but... not THAT guilty.... I am told the "lost name" or whatever happened, is being taken care of, so am keeping that second gift. Mine!

It arrived today, but I didn't take pictures(will try to remember to do so tomorrow. The gift included a very nice Moleskin journal and a nice pen with retractable rolling ball tip and gel grip - which if you've ever used, you know - the rolling ball sets ink down in a delicious way, and the gel grip makes the pen a pleasure to handle.

And not only that, but also included was one of those yummy chocolate oranges, where you smack the globe of chocolate and it separates into segments of citrus-laced chocolate. This one is a dark chocolate "orange."

The cool thing about this is, that the very last Christmas gift my mother gave me was one of these candies. A few years ago, Nita made me a care basket for the holidays, and had also included one of those. They are a sweet I would never buy for myself, and of course bring back loving memories of my mom.



BrassNuts

Trad climber
Save your a_s, reach for the brass...
Dec 20, 2013 - 10:01pm PT
My SS gift arrived today! Here is Pente, protecting the package until Xmas...
I hope my giftee has received their package, I sent it over a week ago, but haven't seen a "received" post... Hopefully the mailman didn't make off with the loot ;-)
drljefe

climber
El Presidio San Augustin del Tucson
Dec 20, 2013 - 10:06pm PT
Right on Michelle!
Whew, I was starting to think you must not like my little painting.
I'm glad you do!!! Happy holidays!
And hey, make sure you take the biners out of the packaging before you go up on the Leaning Tower. ;-)

It just so happens my present arrived today!
Heck of a wrapping job!

Was I gonna wait???

HAYL NO!!!

Seasalt vanilla caramels!
Just scarfed one right now with my after work coffee! Yum!


Recycled books rule. Thanks, and I WILL pass it on!


One of those personalized calendars! And not a dumb, posed vacation or family portrait style
one. This one's by some climbers!
Sick!
And yes, I HAVE been to some of these places, Monkey Face, in fact!
Who are you???
If you only knew how much I like sweets and mountaineering books, and how every year I blow it and don't have a calendar til, like, June!
Great gifts secret Santa!
I had a crap day and this cheered me up.

Also, it was mailed from Yacolt, WA.
and with it came some PNW weather.
It rained all day in Tucson today!

Thank you, whoever you are!
drljefe

climber
El Presidio San Augustin del Tucson
Dec 20, 2013 - 10:41pm PT
SO....
I was looking through the calendar and saw this EPIC shot


It occurred to me I'd seen a trip report for
this route Infinite Bliss.
So after a little P.I. work...
Sho nuff.
http://www.supertopo.com/tr/Infinite-Bliss-with-another-man-while-husband-watches/t12137n.html

I found you out Seamstress!!!!!!

Thanks again, the calendar is awesome.


JOEY.F

Gym climber
It's not rocket surgery
Dec 20, 2013 - 10:52pm PT
^^^that's beautiful!
but what's that sparkey business on the right...
Ho Ho Ho
edit
I get a calendar half way through the year too, that made me laugh
SofCookay

climber
Dec 20, 2013 - 11:01pm PT
Lurking & checking in - haven't received my gift yet, but I'm sure it's in the mail :) Good on you, Happi, for receiving a bonus gift - can't think of anyone more deserving. Enjoy!
neebee

Social climber
calif/texas
Dec 20, 2013 - 11:47pm PT
hey there say, ... mine will get to its 'neating place'
on monday...

hopefully... :)

and, it is for opening on CHRISTMAS EVE, BUT:
IT IS NOT WRAPPED.... :o

SO you will have to
leave it in its 'ugly' ol box,...


it is very rare that i can get wrapping paper and this year
i USED what i had, all-up on a 'secret project' :))


but, you knowwwww, if YOU HAVE wrapping paper, you can WRAP OVER THAT
ol' BIG FLAT BOX up and make it look TWICE as
FUN!!! (family just might love to help!)

i mean, there is only one
christmas eve, each year... hoping you get some FUN FANFARE out of it!
:)

here it is AGAIN:

H

Mountain climber
there and back again
Dec 21, 2013 - 01:37am PT
I got my S.S.S. Gift today too:
, , ,

Thank you Micetro. It has the place of honor on my shelf of rocks from all over the place.
Andy Fielding

Trad climber
UK
Dec 21, 2013 - 07:23am PT
Just seen my SS received her gift from me (phew that's a relief). So the box on my kitchen table contains not one but three gifts. Do I open them now or save them for a few more days?

Seamstress

Trad climber
Yacolt, WA
Dec 21, 2013 - 08:28am PT
Excellent investigative work! Glad that you liked it. Those chocolates are made here, well known chocolatier.
mouse from merced

Trad climber
The finger of fate, my friends, is fickle.
Dec 21, 2013 - 08:31am PT
That was recycled neebee wrapping, H.
I DO know your taste, and it's apparently all that!
It will spin, and you can throw it at the dog.
SCseagoat

Trad climber
Santa Cruz
Dec 21, 2013 - 10:29am PT
Dear Secret Santa....if you are awaiting a note from me, do not despair. I am currently with my son in Europe doing Euro trash skiing. Then headed to Australia to visit with Ferretlegger's brother. My neighbor is collecting my mail. However I have very infrequent internet connectivity but if I get info from them I'll post up if I get a connection. I'll be home sometime after Christmas and look forward to all that home promises!
Susan
neebee

Social climber
calif/texas
Dec 21, 2013 - 12:03pm PT
hey there say, mouse... so funny! i had re'cycled the wrapping paper, too, before is sent it your way, :))

so fun! seeing everything...

wow, susan, have fun out there, wow!


and jefe, sorry to hear about a bad day, but the good cheer here,
sure worked... :)

and brass nuts, i LOVE how cats just 'ease on up' and CLAIM stuff, :O


:)


so many nice gifts!!!
:)
H

Mountain climber
there and back again
Dec 21, 2013 - 01:38pm PT
Thanks again Mouse. It spun fine; very cool! Wouldn't think of thowing it at anything. It is too nice.

I was thinking I was going to re-purpose that wrapping just this morning. Nice to know its history.

This too fun.
John Butler

Social climber
SLC, Utah
Dec 21, 2013 - 02:21pm PT
Greta investigating the good tidings from Gardnerville...

Crimpergirl

Sport climber
Boulder, Colorado!
Dec 21, 2013 - 02:39pm PT
Success! I've worn him down! Gift opening to commence and photos to follow shortly!!! :)
Crimpergirl

Sport climber
Boulder, Colorado!
Dec 21, 2013 - 02:42pm PT
Wooooweeeee!!!
happiegrrrl

Trad climber
www.climbaddictdesigns.com
Dec 21, 2013 - 02:49pm PT
I wondered if the arrival of HIS gift wasn't going to speed things up Crimp!
Crimpergirl

Sport climber
Boulder, Colorado!
Dec 21, 2013 - 03:22pm PT
^^ I was hoping. :)

So, the gifts have been beneath Rudy the Rooster waiting for opening. We don't do trees or anything. Any sort of 'decoration' you see at our home is up year around (including the mallard with the Santa Hat which sings Freebird).


I went first (I woke up feeling a bit puny so I'm still trolling around in fleece looking a bit scrappy). (Dave's opening TR will follow). First opened was the little box. The little box screamed "sparkly inside" and I was not disappointed! Beautiful key chain. Did you make it Pocoloco? Really gorgeous and very much appreciated. :)


Next, a book. I knew it was a book from copious fondling over the week. :) But what book was it???


Wow! No joke - WOW! What a gift! LOVE.IT. LOVE. IT!! (And no, I don't own this book already!)

This is a book I've been ogling for a while. It contains tons (and I mean TONS) of amazing color photos of all the Birds of Paradise and great information about them and their habitat. More info here about the project: http://www.birdsofparadiseproject.org/.

From the Preface: "Eight years. Eighteen expeditions. Fifty-one unique field sites. Thirty-nine species of birds-of-paradise, all photographed in the wild for the first time in history."

The book was made possible by Cornell Lab of Ornithology, a place I donate to frequently, and National Geographic. I love their work.

For those who want to see a wee bit about these birds. Here's a youtube of some bird-of-paradise mating dances: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W7QZnwKqopo. Amazing, eh?!?!

The book is really an amazing gift and I'm so very thankful Pocoloco! I truly love it! I know how my afternoon will be spent!

drljefe

climber
El Presidio San Augustin del Tucson
Dec 21, 2013 - 03:50pm PT
Hey crimpie
My mom gave me this when I left the nest at 18.
I'm 43 now.
These key chains are the bomb.
Nice work poco.
MisterE

climber
Dec 21, 2013 - 08:27pm PT
Really, Jefe? You haven't lost your keys in 25 years? Wow...

Got my package today, it was sent with no return address...sneaky! :)

Going to wait until Christmas when Skip opens her "don't open until Xmas" package.

Woohoo!
Crimpergirl

Sport climber
Boulder, Colorado!
Dec 21, 2013 - 08:29pm PT
Got my keys switched over to the new key chain. Just last week I was looking at mine - all the nice stuff had fallen off - and thought I need a new one. Perfect gift/perfect timing!
BrassNuts

Trad climber
Save your a_s, reach for the brass...
Dec 21, 2013 - 08:39pm PT
CG convinced me that we should open our SS gifts before Christmas day, so here we go.




Thank you Secret Santa for my very snazzy leather-bound adventure journal! I hope to fill it with fun memories this year - :)

So...who is my Secret Santa? Very secret so far...and CG isn't giving any clues!
Lynne Leichtfuss

Sport climber
moving thru
Dec 21, 2013 - 09:28pm PT
Too much fun seeing Crimpergirl and Brassnuts opening their gifts. I caved and opened. After all, it is the perfect night. The children are gone and I'm home alone enjoying all the Christmas decorations on a gorgeous So Cal eve.

ST Secret Santa gifts are special. I convinced myself that they should be opened on a night like tonight. So here goes......Naughty or Nice, we will soon see.


Ahhh, but first a tiny bit of spiced brandy. Join me if you please. A toast to Strider and all the Secret Santa's. Cheers!





Crimpergirl

Sport climber
Boulder, Colorado!
Dec 21, 2013 - 09:44pm PT
NO FAIR!~ Can't leave us hanging like that!!! Open! Open! Open! Open!
Lynne Leichtfuss

Sport climber
moving thru
Dec 21, 2013 - 09:49pm PT
First the Card....truly beautiful, and it matches the wrappings. A super cool letter was included telling me about the giver as well as the gift. Nice touch and thoroughly enjoyed!


Next thing that met my eye were the words "G Strings - Quick Start Guide. Whoa! What next, lynnie? Shall we continue opening and What will we discover?


Life is a trip and what is never is what it seems. Did Alice say that as she fell into the rabbit hole?




This device can give you works outs on edges, jugs, slopers, mantles, pinches, crimps and more. Plus you can bring it with you when you travel.

Thanks from the bottom of my heart Craig/Naitch. What a thoughtful gift that will be enjoyed by my family and friends also. If you and your wife do get back to Calif. please visit. Christmas Cheers and Wishes for Peace and Joy to you and your Family.

Lynne







portent

Social climber
your mom's house
Dec 21, 2013 - 11:12pm PT
BrassNuts,

Happy Holidays!!!! Cheers and have a great trip!!!

From, Supertopo Super Villain Kovar
BrassNuts

Trad climber
Save your a_s, reach for the brass...
Dec 21, 2013 - 11:51pm PT
Cool! Thanks Super Villain! Ho ho ho!
Lynne Leichtfuss

Sport climber
moving thru
Dec 22, 2013 - 01:11am PT
Guess it's time for Butler (or Greta) to step up to the plate.....
happiegrrrl

Trad climber
www.climbaddictdesigns.com
Dec 22, 2013 - 10:09am PT
Such cool gifts! Such cool Secret Santas!!!
drljefe

climber
El Presidio San Augustin del Tucson
Dec 22, 2013 - 01:32pm PT
Really, Jefe? You haven't lost your keys in 25 years? Wow...

Nope.
Dead tour, climbing and living on the road for years...I'm super frikkin anal about my keys.
Crimpie, you may choose to keep your keychain polished but they get better with age and some patina.


I've never done anything like this secret Santa before, especially with an online community.
It's been really fun.
Thanks to strider and everyone else for participating.
Happy holidays people!
Lynne Leichtfuss

Sport climber
moving thru
Dec 22, 2013 - 02:10pm PT
How many more gifts do we have still under the tree? There's Naitch and J. Butler, anyone else?
portent

Social climber
your mom's house
Dec 22, 2013 - 02:17pm PT
Mine's still there.

Kovar
Edge

Trad climber
Boulder, CO
Dec 22, 2013 - 06:32pm PT
They say that Christmas is a time of miracles, and while I don't know who "they" are, I am beginning to believe them. How else can you explain the USPS delivering on a Sunday?

The kids were awakened from their slumber by a knock on the door, and after a few excited barks their herding instincts leapt into action. They surrounded their new ward, keeping close watch and protecting it from harm.


Our initial inspection revealed a strange command. Hopefully this was meant for the postman, as it's not something that you casually tell a climber.


Besides, I used to crush BITD, and the box was too big to be holding the shredded remnants of my dignity. Further details foretold of imminent danger. Witness:


Penny was the first to show up prepared.



But wait, there's more!


The return address! Yes, let's look at the return address! Neebee!! Yippee! I must have done something right this year to deserve such an honor.

Going back through this thread I see that she did not gift wrap the contents, and suggested that the recipient might want to wrap it themselves. No way, it's perfect just the way it is, it's Spirit shining through the thoughtfully repurposed materials. And so it sits, under the tree waiting for the designated date, when I will share the unveiling with my wife, my daughter from Denver, and my son who flies out from New Hampshire tomorrow.

And after that, of course, I will share it with all of you.

Thanks, Neebee!!!!
GLee

Social climber
MSO
Dec 22, 2013 - 07:40pm PT
It's GREAT seeing all that's transpired to date!!!

Off to the PO Box hoping for the Best..

Ho Ho Ho from Montucky
Crimpergirl

Sport climber
Boulder, Colorado!
Dec 22, 2013 - 07:49pm PT
Some Secret Santas are starting to worry their gifts haven't arrived. Hoping no gifts are lost in transit...
MisterE

climber
Dec 22, 2013 - 08:33pm PT
I just have to say to those of you who are on the fence about this:

As someone who has seen this for a few years and just did it for the first time this year, the feeling is so great to share with our community - the climbing community.

Erik
johntp

Trad climber
socal
Dec 22, 2013 - 08:36pm PT
Edge-

The helmeted doggie pic is highlarryous.
Leggs

Sport climber
Tucson, AZ
Dec 22, 2013 - 09:32pm PT
This has been so much fun to watch and read...
I've never done anything like this either, and the best feeling was the giddiness I felt at the post office when my gift was mailed out...

The spirit on this thread is awesome.


~peace
climbski2

Mountain climber
Anchorage AK, Reno NV
Dec 22, 2013 - 09:44pm PT
Yeah I haven't been that excited/nervous to send out a package in a while.

My giftee has not gotten it yet I don't think. It is there according to tracking .. although it was 2 days later than guaranteed.

I'm excited as this person is one of my (probably all our) favorites.. pressure on. I think it will bring some joy through the year though.. a bit nervous cause.. well it doesn't quite compete with some of the really talented artisans or apparently semi psychics we have here.... I'm one of those guys who thinks and thinks and thinks about what present.. and then somehow still ends up picking out a vacuum cleaner or somesuch. Hope I did better than that.. heh.
Leggs

Sport climber
Tucson, AZ
Dec 22, 2013 - 10:16pm PT
^^^ I feel ya. 100%.

hahahhaa!!
JOEY.F

Gym climber
It's not rocket surgery
Dec 22, 2013 - 10:22pm PT
^^^So true! Usually these dealios happen in the work place or with a family member. So we are on a forum and trying to do the best we can with someone we may or may not know. And the anticipation factor is V?
(Don't tell the family but this is more fun...)
Crimpergirl

Sport climber
Boulder, Colorado!
Dec 22, 2013 - 10:29pm PT
I am not a talented gift giver I feel. I try very very hard though.

My greatest gift error to date (and I still hear about) is giving BrassNuts a paper shredder for his birthday.

:/

Hey! It is an awesome shredder. It shreds CDs and credit cards, and we use it. It is very satisfying. Still, each year he asks if he's getting a stapler or some paper clips. Doh.
Leggs

Sport climber
Tucson, AZ
Dec 22, 2013 - 10:39pm PT
hahahahahahaha!
I just shot water out of my nose and scared the cats.

Edit: thank you for that laugh.

Happy Holidays~
LilaBiene

Trad climber
Technically...the spawning grounds of Yosemite
Dec 22, 2013 - 10:47pm PT
Thank you, Leggs!!!!! And to my second Secret Santa, Neebs!!!!!

Friday was I day I'd prefer not to repeat. Two projects intersecting, a close encounter with gluten of the worst kind and learning that I would have had the job I was hoping for had I not "conflicted out". (Note that I've been trying to land a full-time position in my profession since 2007, and this is the closest I had been since then. That's an awful long time to spend rebounding!!!)

Dog tired, I arrived home around 8p to find not one, but TWO surprise packages! What a way to turn a day around!!! I don't think I had my coat half-way off before the muppet more than happily indulged me with the pronouncement that we were going to open these boxes NOW. ") Who am I to argue?




And then Neebs surprised me with a wonderful book called "Son of Harpo Speaks!" It is a wonderful tale about his life growing up with his adoptive parents, Harpo Marx & his mother. Throughout the book (I read until the wee hours on Saturday morning, forcing myself to leave 50 or so pages for another day I might need some inspiration -- lol.) In the book I learned that Harpo's original first name subjected him to the nickname "Oddie" (can you say goosebumps?!), and that I am apparently not the only adopted person that writes conversations with someone who is dead (phew!). ;D

The book is chock full of wisdom, including this wonderful passage:


My heart to the both of you for your perfect timing and wonderfully thoughtful surprises.


Thank you so much, Leggs and Neebs!!!!!!!
Leggs

Sport climber
Tucson, AZ
Dec 22, 2013 - 10:52pm PT
I had NO IDEA who my gift was going to! What a wonderful surprise, LilaBiene! ~love from Tucson! '


AND a surprise NeeBee gift!


*blessings*


~lisa mae
LilaBiene

Trad climber
Technically...the spawning grounds of Yosemite
Dec 22, 2013 - 10:56pm PT
:D :D

Two great, big grins, one from each of us! I was so psyched when I saw who it was from on the return address label!

So many thanks to Stryder for making these random acts of kindness possible.

Edit:
P.S. Leggs, re: toe socks -- too funny!!! :D I'll have to post up how these actually look after I've worn them for an hour or so...I have a mutant baby toe that refuses to be separated from its neighbor and wiggles its way next door. Hilarious!!!
Leggs

Sport climber
Tucson, AZ
Dec 22, 2013 - 10:59pm PT

So many thanks to Stryder for making these random acts of kindness possible.

amen.




The day the piece Alaina made for me was finished.
I was so happy with it, and wanted to share the desert beauty.
A professional photographer, the photo in the "frame" is one she took.

:)
Crimpergirl

Sport climber
Boulder, Colorado!
Dec 22, 2013 - 10:59pm PT
Glad you laughed Leggs. :) It is funny and 100% true!
Leggs

Sport climber
Tucson, AZ
Dec 22, 2013 - 11:01pm PT
hahahahahha....
I love office supplies... so... yeah.
hahahhahahhaa!!

:)


Edit: LilaBiene, I've gone toe sock crazy this year.
*out of control*
10b4me

Ice climber
Bishop/Flagstaff
Dec 22, 2013 - 11:48pm PT
This was my second year of participating, and was much better than the first.
Melissa

Gym climber
berkeley, ca
Dec 22, 2013 - 11:54pm PT
To my Secret Santa:

Thank you for sending a gift! My housesitting friend told me a package arrived. I'm assuming it's you since I didn't order anything else. I get back home on the 28th, so I'll be late to the party, but I'll share then.

Melissa
Leggs

Sport climber
Tucson, AZ
Dec 22, 2013 - 11:56pm PT
^^^

so much fun
Leggs

Sport climber
Tucson, AZ
Dec 23, 2013 - 12:00am PT
Edit:
P.S. Leggs, re: toe socks -- too funny!!! :D I'll have to post up how these actually look after I've worn them for an hour or so...I have a mutant baby toe that refuses to be separated from its neighbor and wiggles its way next door. Hilarious!!!


I am laughing so hard right now, LilaBeine ... hahhahahhaa!!


I gave my 21 yr old son a pair that matched mine, on a whim, and he said, "Mamma! Really?! Toesies?!
sweet"


:)
StevenJ

Trad climber
Mill Valley CA
Dec 23, 2013 - 12:04am PT
I opened my gift this weekend-


Not only are these beautiful and a limited edition, but we just moved into a new place and have the perfect place for them as we've been on the lookout for art.

Thank you Secret Santa!!! We're super stoked!
MisterE

climber
Dec 23, 2013 - 12:20am PT
I just love the random element - you have not a clue in any way what you are getting.
nita

Social climber
chica de chico, I don't claim to be a daisy.
Dec 23, 2013 - 12:28am PT

I just love the random element - you have not a clue in any way what you are getting.

There you have it, that is the ...444^^
Leggs

Sport climber
Tucson, AZ
Dec 23, 2013 - 12:35am PT
MisterE nailed it on the head.

~peace!


Edit: Hey hey, StevenJ! Love the art you received!

;)
neebee

Social climber
calif/texas
Dec 23, 2013 - 12:56am PT
hey there say, edge.... oh my!!! i am laughing... :))
it takes a lot to make me laugh... well, what i mean is:
real quality stuff, :))

as, i don't laugh at things that make fun of folks,etc, as, i am too sensitive, :O

but as to words, critters and situations that befall all of us, wow,
i can laugh to raise my critters from comfy sleep, :O


do not crush...
open carefully...
little did i know how humorously this would flow!
and the doggie and helmet wow!!!

oh wow! i sure needed that... all my packages have always
made it... but i have one 'fiasco' now, to my name:
a group-effort of a surprise secret-project to ol' mouse...

SO THIS, gave me so much fun! edge, THANK YOU
for the wonderful presentation!!!

you will be glad you waited for the christmas eve, too!



and say, hee hee, AS IF there is NOT enough caution, :))
you can let us know IF you find another, after you open it, :))




wow, and edge:
SUNDAY... WOW, SUNDAY! UPS, wonderful!!!!
love the pup-dog photo with gift!!
neebee

Social climber
calif/texas
Dec 23, 2013 - 01:01am PT
hey there say, leggs and audey and all...

i had been wanting to get that book for her, for a LONG long time...

there is another very special part in that book that matches her life, and well:
it was time: SHE JUST did a HUGE help to my stamp-fairy, and it was NOW the perfect time to send her this book, as a 'huge thank you gift' >:D<

and, i was able to meet this open door!

now she can stay cozy, while she reads it...


neebee

Social climber
calif/texas
Dec 23, 2013 - 01:06am PT
hey there say, naitch... awww, neat little christmas cactus, of different variety, than some, :)

so much to bring us good cheer, here, this eve!
thanks to for sharing!

will let my secret santa know, when mine comes, :)
Bluelens

climber
Pasadena, CA
Dec 23, 2013 - 01:08am PT
The card promises these contain "the secret of what keeps Santa going." Hmm…maybe food!???recovering from jet lag….returned from Asia Saturday….little mental reserve for decisions….wait til the 25th!'

Bluelens

climber
Pasadena, CA
Dec 23, 2013 - 01:25am PT
Gift sent December 4 from zip code 92369, to a certain Mouse House 330 miles north, over the Cajon Pass and through the Central Valley we go. Am fretting USPS Media Mail will deliver after the 25th. Yet the gift is robust and timeless so will not suffer if delayed! Next year, Priority Mai, and tracking.
neebee

Social climber
calif/texas
Dec 23, 2013 - 06:08am PT
hey there say, lilabiene...

as to this:


.I have a mutant baby toe...

say, i got some to match... :)
pocoloco1

Social climber
The Chihuahua Desert
Dec 23, 2013 - 12:07pm PT
CG;
Great to hear that you liked the gift. I hope it's a catalyst for adventure;Road Trip!!! Cool to see jefe has the same ring; my first one lasted for 20 + years.


"I am not a talented gift giver I feel. I try very very hard though"
I feel the same way. What's wrong with a shredder?
Edge

Trad climber
Boulder, CO
Dec 23, 2013 - 12:51pm PT
"I am not a talented gift giver I feel. I try very very hard though"
I feel the same way. What's wrong with a shredder?

It's like giving your wife a toaster oven and a cookbook of "100 Greatest Sandwich Recipes." ;^)

"Hey honey, it's halftime. Howza 'bout digging out that gift I got you?"
pocoloco1

Social climber
The Chihuahua Desert
Dec 23, 2013 - 01:29pm PT
Edge;


"It's like giving your wife a toaster oven and a cookbook of "100 Greatest Sandwich Recipes." ;^)

"Hey honey, it's halftime. Howza 'bout digging out that gift I got you?"

You could make your wife a sandwich.
neebee

Social climber
calif/texas
Dec 23, 2013 - 02:06pm PT
hey there say, ... here we go!


was outside doing the 'shovel the drive' bit, :)
or, really, was doing the 'remove SOLID ice encasement from car' bit...

well, actually, i DID both... BUT WHAT I WAS DOING:
was REALLY waiting for mailman, as, stamps were on the way to mail a few last cards... had been expecting about 10 of them, and they came! was just barely enough, and when they came and had the mailman wait for me to stamp them (was okay, he was still next door)...

and wow! (OOPS, i'm getting the neat secret santa part, just a sec)
and wow--susan seagoat, had STAMPS IN HER christmas card to me, wow,
wonderful, susan! i had local cards that were late to take to the old neighborhood,as, the roads were all iced for two days, :(
i GOT to mail those today!!!

and then!!!! YES, well, actually BEFORE THEN:
BACK TO THE CAR:
up drives the ol' UPS!!! NOT THE MAIL that i was waiting for, :)


was so nice! i had forgot about the secret santa coming, as, i was waiting for a waltz that i had ordered, and i had just assumed THAT was it...

secret santa gifts always seemed to show up when i was ASLEEP!!!
SO, MY MINDSET you know, just did NOT figure this 'was it!'

just as i started to open it, it did NOT feel like a cd-waltz, :O

i stopped suddenly, and VERY GRATEFUL that i did!!!

and then i saw the (thank you, secret santa for doing that)
i SAW the SECRET SANTA NOTE by my name on the address...

whewwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww... NOW, i can open it for christmas!!
well, actually, if it is okay--SINCE I COULD FEEL what it was,
i will open it for christmas eve, as, it will make my eve very cozy
and sweet! (i love 'sweet christmas' time)... i am always alone on
christmas eve, so this will be my SPECIAL TIME, with the critters
and to cozy up by the tree lights...


THANK you so very much, kind secret santa!
i ALMOST RUINED my surprise, :O

HERE IT IS FOLKS:
curiosity, got the attention of ONE cat, too,
as well as mine:






all safe under tree, and THEN THE MAIL CAME...
well, almost an hour later, waiting out there in the cold,
:)) but i had to catch him for those stamps, :))
and the surprise stamps that was the real extra miracle
in the mail that i NEVER knew were there, as well!


AND YES, the WALTZ (that was late) WAS THERE!!
AND YES, i DID open that one...
;)

and--i DID get out on the roads, to mail the rest of the
local cards...thank you susan!...
roads were not as bad as old neighborhood, as many cars
have melted it down, but new storm is now on the way.. snow is
coming down, now... so:

no turkey or duck supper now, :O
(had some gift money for to do one!--but stores are too packed and my
windshield wiper just broke--ex son in law will come fix it later)

we WILL ENJOY SOUP! AND RICE!...
or, as harpo marx, said by gesture, in a movie:

soup, rice... suuuuuu p rIse... suprise!
i will have a SURPRISE of soup with my critters and
a SURPISE from secret santa...


thank you supertaco secret santa!!!


*thank you ALL for your patience as i ramble on here, but you see:
this was my SECRET SANTA DAY... it all happened in a very
VERY FUN WAY... so i had to share it all...

yep, all of it, :)
even the cup of coffee that i am now a'drinking, ;)
salute!
Edge

Trad climber
Boulder, CO
Dec 23, 2013 - 02:48pm PT
You could make your wife a sandwich.

Pocoloco, I did, just this morning. Turkey and provolone with lettuce, mayo, honey mustard, and salt & pepper. I even wrapped up a few pressed (camel, tree, & wreath shapes) spritz cookies that I made yesterday.

Sorry my sense of humor doesn't translate too well online.

Lynne Leichtfuss

Sport climber
moving thru
Dec 23, 2013 - 03:15pm PT
I got it Edge....and chuckled. First laugh of the day! Thanks!

I needed a laugh. Decided just a few hours ago to host a La Posada walk and dinner tomorrow evening. I'm off to shop then cook, which I love, but I have limited myself on time due to my lack of decision making. Haven't hosted anything since Dan went to heaven. So this is a special candle walk and dinner.

Cheers All! Each year this SSSGE gets moh betta'. Peace and Joy, lynne
GLee

Social climber
MSO
Dec 23, 2013 - 04:57pm PT
I was only going to open the card accompanying the Gifts..... then open the packages on Xmas day!

But my Seattle Secret Santa wished me Happy Holidays, and then described the contents,

SO



I'm certain to enjoy the Theo Chocolate bars, and the only thing better than Smoked Wild Alaskan Sockeye would be smoked salmon strips at fish camp on the Kuskokwim (or maybe on any other river) in Bush Alaska!!!

Thank you again SSS from Greg Lee


StevenJ

Trad climber
Mill Valley CA
Dec 23, 2013 - 05:46pm PT
Hey Leggs,

I just checked tracking - "Santazon" should be delivering today.

Merry Christmas!
Crimpergirl

Sport climber
Boulder, Colorado!
Dec 23, 2013 - 05:47pm PT
Pocoloco - I do hope to get to Australia this summer (work) and you can believe I'll stay longer and look at birds. Seeing a Bird of Paradise would be more than I ever dreamed. Can you imagine? Thanks, thanks and a million thanks again! :)

(And I still think the shredder is cool too).

:)

Ihateplastic

Trad climber
It ain't El Cap, Oregon
Dec 23, 2013 - 06:48pm PT
As always, I cannot wait worth a damn...

A BEAUTIFUL HANDMADE WOOL CAP!

Thanks SO VERY MUCH "Michelle"!!!


On a side note... Damn I am pasty!
Leggs

Sport climber
Tucson, AZ
Dec 23, 2013 - 07:12pm PT
Hey Leggs,

I just checked tracking - "Santazon" should be delivering today.

Merry Christmas!


Heeheeeheee!! Grawseome!! Thank you, Santa Steven.


:)



Ihateplastic... AWESOME HAT. (nice job, Michelle!)


Happy Holidays to all!

~leggs
Brandon-

climber
The Granite State.
Dec 23, 2013 - 07:18pm PT
That's a dope hat.
SofCookay

climber
Dec 23, 2013 - 07:29pm PT
It arrived today!


By the return address, I know exactly who my Secret Santa is...and I am very lucky!

When I had originally signed up for this, I had provided my Joshua Tree address, as we move there for the winter. However, due to an aging cat who would not fare well on the 7-hour drive...


...and a new puppy


the move has been delayed. Luckily, my package was forwarded and arrived in time for Christmas.

I will wait until Christmas Eve to open and will reveal my gift and awesome Secret Santa at that time.
Leggs

Sport climber
Tucson, AZ
Dec 23, 2013 - 08:11pm PT
^^ love the cat.

:)



Steven ... my gift arrived!!


*may I open it!!???* *now?*


{{insert cheesy grin}}

Gene

climber
Dec 23, 2013 - 08:15pm PT
I got something in the mail today postmarked Massachusetts.

I'll try to wait until tomorrow to open it. Psyched!!!

g
Leggs

Sport climber
Tucson, AZ
Dec 23, 2013 - 08:17pm PT
((you're stronger than I am, Gene))


;)
Gene

climber
Dec 23, 2013 - 08:17pm PT
I did say 'try' right?

g
Leggs

Sport climber
Tucson, AZ
Dec 23, 2013 - 08:19pm PT
you did.

*thank you for that*
((I feel like I can perhaps open my gift tonight}}


;)
Gene

climber
Dec 23, 2013 - 08:23pm PT
Smiles back atcha.

{{{{DO IT!!!}}}

g

and let us know.
Leggs

Sport climber
Tucson, AZ
Dec 23, 2013 - 08:58pm PT
{{{I DID IT}})
*i'm so weak*

and...

SOOOOO happy!!
How Perfect, Santa Steven! It's like you ... "get me".

{smiles!}

Thank you so much for the wonderful variety of Teas and for the fabulous stainless steel mug!!
It's so ME, it's almost silly.

High Five, man!! *thank you*


Smiles from ear to ear. Happy Holidays!

~leggs



phylp

Trad climber
Millbrae, CA
Dec 23, 2013 - 09:33pm PT
Oh, wow! What fantastic booty! I can 't wait to get jome tommorow night and see if my neighbors picked up a package for me! It will be a blast to share in the fun.
Michelle

Social climber
1187 Hunterwasser
Dec 23, 2013 - 10:06pm PT
So glad you like it!

On a side note, I still owe Larry his :)
Leggs

Sport climber
Tucson, AZ
Dec 23, 2013 - 11:17pm PT
I'm lovin' the booty and the spirit of fun, the unknown, the excitement, that brings out the 6 year old in us...
This has been a great experience... I look forward to checking in on all the joy and smiles...and participating next year.

:)




Michelle.... you owe Larry a hat.
Chop Chop.

I want to place an order.

~
StevenJ

Trad climber
Mill Valley CA
Dec 23, 2013 - 11:29pm PT
Hey Leggs!

You're welcome! Merry Christmas!
Leggs

Sport climber
Tucson, AZ
Dec 23, 2013 - 11:33pm PT
Merry Christmas to YOU!! Thank you... soooo much!

Thanks for spreading the joy.


~peace


Edge

Trad climber
Boulder, CO
Dec 24, 2013 - 11:37am PT
It's Christmas Eve! By declaration from Neebee herself, I can now open my Secret Santa gifts!


As the only one sanctioned to open a gift, I was the center of attention; my wife, son visiting from NH, daughter and her boyfriend, and the dogs all gathered around. Carefully opening one side of the package, I slid out the most amazingly thoughtful gift, a Neebee original painting of a scene I am very familiar with:


Painted from this pic I uploaded to the dog thread:


I couldn't believe how beautiful this painting is. My wife was almost crying, wondering how someone I've never met in person could be so thoughtful and generous; I explained, "that's the Taco, that's Neebee."

Jasper surveyed his likeness and seemed to approve.


Penny, on the other hand, just basked in her glory and canvas immortality. She's going to be insufferable...


To be continued.
Leggs

Sport climber
Tucson, AZ
Dec 24, 2013 - 11:40am PT
Oh my goodness.... I'm about to cry... happy tears.

That is SO awesome, thoughtful and beautiful.


Good morning!
Edge

Trad climber
Boulder, CO
Dec 24, 2013 - 11:48am PT
I have no idea how Neebs fit all of it in the package, but there was more! A couple ornaments for the tree:


A gorgeous dream catcher which will hang in a window over our bed where it will release the captured bad dreams to the morning sun:


Aaaand, a pair of hand knit woolen socks! Wow!


My wife was quick to point out, "those look too small, they are more my size." Nice try sweetheart, but these woolen slippers fit this Tacoclimberfurnituremakerandhusband's feet, so that makes me the prince.

Dear Neebee, I am humbled and grateful for your thoughtful gift. I will treasure each and every one.

Well, that's my story. Time to walk the dogs.

10b4me

Ice climber
Bishop/Flagstaff
Dec 24, 2013 - 11:50am PT
That painting is remarkable
nita

Social climber
chica de chico, I don't claim to be a daisy.
Dec 24, 2013 - 11:54am PT

That painting is remarkable

neebee, beautiful art work!

SteveW

Trad climber
The state of confusion
Dec 24, 2013 - 12:13pm PT

Talk to George Gershwin about 'walkin' the dog,' Edge. . .

hee hee hee. . .ho ho ho!
neebee

Social climber
calif/texas
Dec 24, 2013 - 12:48pm PT
hey there say, edge... well, i TOOK a tad bit of artistic 'license' there, as i left out the sunlight and such on the snow, as, i never seem to get clear copies of these photos, from my printer, :O


i loved doing these dogs, it was soooo fun! and the part where i had
such a good laugh, was:

litte did anyone know what was in it, YET the two dogs FRAMED IT
PERFECTLY IN YOUR photo of 'when it arrived'... i alone, enjoyed
the hidden joke, ...i love innocent critter jokes... :)


and the socks are WOOL LOWER and top is acrylic... so DO NOT WASH
THEM IN HOT WATER, AND DO NOT PUT THEM IN THE DRYER, OR:




















they may end up being your wife's, :O
no offence to her, either, by the way, :)
but yep, they ARE your secret santa and i hope they fit...
i could only quess, as, i made some fro my brother matt and they were
way too huge, :O

let me know, did they stretch enough to fit good but not too tight???
thanks, i am here WAITING, :)) for the 'test dry answer'
AFTER this taco-share answer, of just above where you said they DID fit...



:)



also painting IS acrylic, i did not have time for oils...
so, sometimes THESE ARE TEMPERMENATL if wet!!!!

do not get it wet... :O do not wipe it with water... :O
it is SPRAYED with a bit of art-spray, ...so later,
just lightly dust it with feather duster, etc....


:)


happy sweet christmas to you and your home... this was such a fun
christmas eve day... :)
thank you for waiting, it makes it more like a holiday, :))
with the family there, :)
neebee

Social climber
calif/texas
Dec 24, 2013 - 01:00pm PT
hey there say, wow, edge!

the pictures loaded now... oh my, funny, 'the dogs' i see you have the socks ON and they DO fit!!!!


and the funny helmet dog, above, is so 'artsy' dressed up...

say now, DO NOT let these socks get thrown into the wash...

mine were good for months, and then (my rabbit spared on them, as well as my pants, so took the whole mess down the washer, cold water, BUT--FORGOT that i dumped the socks in) ... BIG OOOOOPS...
THEY shrunk, :(

but, me, being the knitter, i UNDID the toe-seal, and
KNITTED ON A FEW NEW ROWS, :o :)
AND THUS--now they fit again...



so wash them seperate, let them dry on a towel, but you may
SQUISH the water out of them... pad dry again, and i think, if they are just 'next' to a warm spot in the house, they should dry okay...

ASK AROUND and learn what to do... they are soooooooooooo nice and warm!!!!
good with slippers and perhaps with shoes, too, :) or boots, ?
(don't know, if they slip downwards, or not, when walking?)
but still, great for slippers, at least) ...

:)


okay--cautions are all done now, :))

neebee

Social climber
calif/texas
Dec 24, 2013 - 02:35pm PT
hey there say, secret santa...

yooooo who? ... i just got another PACKAGE, OH MY...
so both must be from the secret santa...

just letting you know, in case you thought one??? did not make it?
hmmm...

well, i am opening them, this eve... with the tree and the lights and the ambiance... and the critters...

and a local secret santa, left some wine, early and NOW,
my grankids, by way of the ex son inlaw, and by way of phone call from
my daughter, just brought turkey-breast thing for
me to make a chrismas supper and not just soup,


wow!

this IS a very special year, to actually have family stop by, :O

so, tonight i will post the wonderful taco-gift here...
and this one i did NOT accidenlty start to open, as, all the
waltzed have arrived, :))


can't take a pic yet, the batteries died... so will take a pic, tonight and post all...


thank you again, so very very much!!!!
did not expect two things, :O oh my,...,. :O



:)


well, got chores to do now,. :)

see you soon, this eve!!!
Andy Fielding

Trad climber
UK
Dec 24, 2013 - 06:44pm PT
^^^ Wow Edge that painting is pretty special.

It's almost Christmas Day here in the UK so I'll be opening my STSS gifts very soon.
johntp

Trad climber
socal
Dec 24, 2013 - 08:18pm PT
Okay, I Finally cracked.

First up is the gift from my SSTS. He must have talked to my ex who always said I was in the dark...

Thanks SSTS


Next up is a peemie not related to the exchange but I think it fits in on this thread.


Photo quality is lousy but the gifts are great.

Thanks to my taco Santa's and Strider

Have a wonderful holiday season ya'll!
phylp

Trad climber
Millbrae, CA
Dec 24, 2013 - 08:32pm PT
Just got home and my neighbor brought by the mail...
Two packages from unknown places:


I want to open them right this minute, But first, I need a shower after the 7 hour drive.
Phyl
zip

Trad climber
pacific beach, ca
Dec 24, 2013 - 08:36pm PT
Thanks to all who pitched in for a gift for Strider.
It did arrive on time.
climbski2

Mountain climber
Anchorage AK, Reno NV
Dec 24, 2013 - 08:47pm PT
So I'm unwrapping my final SS gift!

Excited!


And its a taste of home! Copper River Smoked Salmon. Been by that river many a time on various trips.


Ripped it open and munched a bit.. so good!

This is a real treat for me. I love seafood and miss things like smoked salmon and halibut. Luxuries to me. I'll scarf down about half and then make a kickass chip dip with the rest!

A real big thank-you to my Secret Santa! Also thanks ST and Strider for making this possible and so much fun!
phylp

Trad climber
Millbrae, CA
Dec 24, 2013 - 09:35pm PT
Both of the packages were from my secret Santa.

I opened the big one first:

Arghhh! The photo posting function is bugging out on me, can't post any photos right now.
Will try again tomorrow.

But hugs and kisses, SofCookay, I love my three gifts. I can tell you did some detective work in my past posts to help you choose something just right for me. When I post the photos, I'll say more...

And thank you for not torturing me by remaining secret!
xo Phyl
justthemaid

climber
Jim Henson's Basement
Dec 24, 2013 - 11:07pm PT
Super Excited!!! Couldn't wait any longer. Mr E and I opened our Supertopo gifts tonight. Hope we don't get in trouble for not waiting for Xmas day ;)

Thanks Mark, Amy Mickey and Max!!

I got some great socks and a set of swell hand made bowls





johntp

Trad climber
socal
Dec 24, 2013 - 11:35pm PT
That is some nice pottery work. SSTS strikes again.
SofCookay

climber
Dec 25, 2013 - 01:13am PT
Phylp, merry Christmas to you!

I am very happy to hear you like the gifts I chose, and yes, I did a little research on your past posts to get an idea. Your gifts are made by climbers who make and sell their products on the Etsy website - the two smaller gifts were made by Jessica Pemble, Cheyne Lempe's girlfriend, who recently launched her online shop on there.

I have not opened the gifts from my secret Santa yet...waiting for Christmas morning...
MisterE

climber
Dec 25, 2013 - 01:16am PT
I got some great gifts!


I was the gift elf for the family this year, so I had to wear the stupid hat and hand out gifts. Thank Cthulu I don't have to be the elf for at least 4 more years:




This thing is made for psychedelics - check that: it is it's own psychedelic:



neebee

Social climber
calif/texas
Dec 25, 2013 - 01:43am PT
hey there say, all...

lovely stuff here... and sweet hearts...

say, i had a minor setback, in the ol' inner-spirit here,...
but i am having a glass of wine,
from LOCAL ohmy secret santa, that drops off a gift
bag every year...

:) must have KNOWN i'd need the wine for a bit... :)


will be right back and post my wonderful gifts!
made me cry... sweet books... AND i don't read much,
these days, AS I WRITE my books...

but these BOOK FIT PERFECT, hee hee, AS THEY
ARE CLIMBER FEELINGS STUFF!!!!! AND GREATOUTDOOR INFO
from a well known greatoutdoor folk that was part
of the 'early scene' before us...



suspence, here, huh?

:)


will be right back, must relax here, as to my 'set back'
(not from secret santa, stuff, mind you)
>:D<
Strider

Trad climber
ಠ_ಠ
Topic Author's Reply - Dec 25, 2013 - 02:37am PT
It has been such an amazing gift exchange year for everyone! So many thoughtful, creative gifts that have been sent and received. This is an amazing group of folks and I am proud to be a small part among so many great people.

And to everyone here who contributed to send me a gift, Thank You So Much! Zip has been taking care of organizing, purchasing and sending me a gift as a thank you from the beginning of this event. And every year it is an amazing, generous gift that only highlights this special event for me, even though I don't expect anything back, I am simply happy to help organize the event.

I have a poor memory and even more poor organizational skills. For the past 3 years I have taken a photo of my gifts in action but I can't find them now. But to recap:
 2011 was a magnificent climbing rope. It served me well on a January trip to Josh as well as a key effort on an FA I was working on at the time. By now, since the FA was completed, the rope has been retired from lead and is a designated fixed rope. It served it's purpose admirably well, saw it's share of abuse and continues to do it duty. Thank you to everyone who pitched in.
 2012 was an amazing, lightweight daypack that is still in use today. It did a tour of duty in Josh last January as well as a few day trips throughout the year. This year I did not get out as much as I would have liked to climb but this was my go to bag when I did. Again, your generosity amazes me and lives on.
 and this year, 2013...

The box when it arrived:

The opening:

The reveal:

Interestingly, two day ago I had mentioned to my girlfriend that I wanted to try out an insulated outdoor vest. We were watching a movie in which the main character was wearing one and I thought, maybe an insulated vest would be a good way to keep my core warm but also maintain range and flexibility. Lo and behold the gift that Zip sends me in an insulated vest. No sh#t, I couldn't make this up. A perfect gift and only because you'll pitched in and Zip organized it. Thank You So Much!

I wish you all a Merry Christmas and I only wish and hope the best for everyone in the New Year.

Cheers to my friends!
-n

ps. If you have not received your gift nor received an email from me explaining where your gift is, PLEASE contact me so I can make sure things are on the right track. PLEASE, this is important to mention, do not hesitate to let me know.
neebee

Social climber
calif/texas
Dec 25, 2013 - 06:34am PT
hey there, say, strider!!! wow, so very happy to see you here, tonight!

(also, in the photo below, is the wonderful calendar from chaz, that came just before the santa gifts)

wow, so here is my secret santa gifts:

i read the first one, as it came first, to get the feel of what the
sender wanted for me, as it came...

i have five brothers and three sons (and a daughter) but we are talking
'the guy way' here... so i know very much about guys, etc, and lots of the
journeys that they face, but:

this one was from the climber-author's
perspective of leaving behind relationships that did not work,
for a variety of reasons--as he stepped out to 'live new journeys'...
and even got the chance to 'survey' others in their relationships,
while on his 'new journey'...

which whether male or female, one must do, if we are to keep learning
who we are...


i actually know someone that will benefit from this and can pass this one oward, too share 'its life'...

but this SECOND ONE... IS A DEEPER TREASURE AS TO HISTORY,
AS opposed to 'the future' as the first book will still move into.. :)

and thus, s to history... this book is stuck with me for the long haul,
it made me cry when i saw it... as, it contains a life story
that'd we not get to hear 'in process' but only by looking back:


wow, so here it is:
future onward:
THE NEW American ROAD TRIP MIXTAPE
by brendan leonard

past, backward:
MUIR
Nature Writings
The Story of My Boyhood and Youth
My First Summer in the Sierra
The Mountains of California
Stickeen
Essays


and the part that i saw on the cover that made me cry?
The Story of My Boyhood and Youth

and--My First Summer in the Sierra



wow, wow, and this book was 'thrown' onto my porch, by the UPS
well, tossed, as he perhaps did not want to slip?
on ice, but--i HAD shoveled :)


the toss woke up me and the ol' pupdog, to the fact, that
something HAD LANDED and it was NO BIRD, :o





WOW, will be gleaning history and stories from this muir book for a long time...

looking to the future/or now book, i always read fast...

old time stuff, i read in portions... sometimes , even by going
backwards, or from middle, it all depends 'on the feel' of the moment,

i just read about him wanting to stay up later than bedtime and READ!
(HMMM, sounds like m dad) ;)



thank you secret santa, thank you very kindly and sooo much!!!!!...
will we get to know who you are, :)
????
zip

Trad climber
pacific beach, ca
Dec 25, 2013 - 09:36am PT
Strider,

From all the people who contributed for your gift, you're welcome.
We all appreciate you organizing this.
We hope you enjoy your gift.
Please let me know if it is not the right size.

I did not receive anything from my Secret Santa. 2nd year in a row where I woke up to nothing on Christmas Day. :( What up with that?
Andy Fielding

Trad climber
UK
Dec 25, 2013 - 10:08am PT
Presents opened, pictures taken but just about to eat some turkey. Pics to follow. Merry Christmas everyone.
happiegrrrl

Trad climber
www.climbaddictdesigns.com
Dec 25, 2013 - 10:55am PT
You know -I didn't see HOW anyone could hold off on opening their Secret Santa gifts until even Christmas Eve...
but I am so glad some did!

What a nice update to this thread on the holiday!

Merry Christmas Everybody!


neebee

Social climber
calif/texas
Dec 25, 2013 - 11:24am PT
hey there say, zip... :O

oh my... :O
here's hoping it is still in the mail...

:O
SofCookay

climber
Dec 25, 2013 - 11:34am PT
I had a tough time waiting, but it was worth the wait!

My not-so-secret Santa was the beautiful and talented Melissa, also a very good friend of ours! So she had a bit of insight into what to get me...

I opened the mailing envelope and found 7 little red envelopes - one card and the rest numbered 1 - 7. Curiously, the number 6 was missing, so I checked the mailing envelope, but it was empty. Nevertheless, I was very excited to see what each of these envelopes held.


Some of you may know that I make and sell jewelry using recycled, and sometimes new, climbing stoppers, cams, etc. I love using natural gemstones in making my necklaces and bracelets. Melissa chose some beautiful gemstones for me to incorporate into my jewelry - aventurine, lavender jade, moonstone, amethyst, and rhyolite (one of my favorites, too, Melissa!).



I am looking forward to incorporating these stones into my creations! Melissa, thank you so much for your wonderful and thoughtful gift. Merry Christmas to you and J and to all the other Supertopians! xoxo
John Butler

Social climber
SLC, Utah
Dec 25, 2013 - 11:55am PT
shiney stoppers!!!... which i promise to scratch up a wee bit at jtree next week if the weather holds

and the cool fitzroy book...

and beautiful Yerian cards for the Ansel Adams wall...

Merry Christmas to all, and thanks Santa de Gardnerville :-)

phylp

Trad climber
Millbrae, CA
Dec 25, 2013 - 12:42pm PT
First I opened the big box, which contained this colorful re-purposed rope creation:


It's a wine bottle holder! Which will shortly be put to good use, I can assure you.

Next I opened the little package, which contained some great girly stuff.


I'm in the midst of a grueling move from Northern California to Southern California. After 33 years on the Peninsula and 20 years in this house, it's physically and emotionally exhausting and exhilarating. So body pampering is all the more necessary at the moment. The body scrub will help wash away the tired skin.

And not helping matters at all is the fact that I had a complicated right shoulder surgery on Oct. 30. And I'm right handed. And I have a TON of packing and cleaning to do. So the soothing lavender (my favorite scent) muscle rub will also be put to immediate use.

Thank you again, SofCookay!

JOEY.F

Gym climber
It's not rocket surgery
Dec 25, 2013 - 01:09pm PT
Opened mine last night!I wonder where these have been, Man I bet they have a story!
Awesome gifts, I'll treasure and hopefully use too. Old school Coolness. Thumbs up! THANKS SECRET SANTA!!!
Captain...or Skully

climber
Dec 25, 2013 - 01:29pm PT
Pretty cool gift ideas.....hey look, it's a Santaman hand!
SofCookay

climber
Dec 25, 2013 - 02:13pm PT
You're welcome, Phylp!
MisterE

climber
Dec 25, 2013 - 02:43pm PT
Glad you liked the pins, Joey! The story is that they were previously owned by "Holdplease2", and she's a bad-ass big-waller!

They can be pretty useful around the house too:



Bonus gift coming...

Erik
Mark Sensenbach

climber
CA
Dec 25, 2013 - 03:13pm PT
Opened out Gift from Secret Santa today. REALLY stoked!. Max is heading off to Fort Collins with the chalk bag, Mickey grabbed the locking biner, the pooch loves the pooch snacks, we all will inhale the snickers and amy can use the bike light. Very very big thankyou!!!
Happy New year to all. Will pass the good vibe on.-m
portent

Social climber
your mom's house
Dec 25, 2013 - 04:27pm PT


Sweet a$$ Secret Santa stuff!!! Fish gear sling, 4 course gourmet dehydrated dinner(tr to come), Doug Scott's Big Wall Climbing and a sweet Tami Knight tee




Johntp? Was it you?

Thankful for the gifts and Happy Holidays to all you STers...

-kovar
johntp

Trad climber
socal
Dec 25, 2013 - 04:34pm PT
^^^^

guilty as charged.

edit: hope you did not already have the book; it is a tremendous tome on the history and development of big wall climbing.
Andy Fielding

Trad climber
UK
Dec 25, 2013 - 04:36pm PT
So first thing on this Christmas morning I opened a package that contained an original piece of art work "White Mountains from Lone Pine"


I love that. Thanks Ms P!!!!

Next I opened a gift containing 6 cards, which I absolutely adore. The photos are credited to Bill Serniuk. I hope you agree with me that these pictures are stunning. In fact they are so good I'm going to frame some for the wall.


Next (I’m so lucky this year) there is a book, but not just any book it’s a guidebook for Mammoth Area Rock Climbs. On the cover my SS has written, “Santa is always seeing posts about Brits who come to California to climb in Yosemite. But this area is just as beautiful and has thousands of great peaks and alpine climbs besides the crags described here. Easy camping, tons of hotels, easy access, huge variety, uncrowded. Put this area on your must visit list!


Also on the front cover is a message, Santa says “You can never have too many guide books!” I certainly can’t disagree with this statement. I love guide books and can stare at them for hours.

The front cover also declares that this is “Santa’s special Edition Annotated Guide” and turning the pages I can see why.


The guide is full of these useful post it note messages.

Thank you SS. If you wish to remain anonymous I will understand BUT I am going to email the person on here who I am 99% sure you are. If you receive that email I hope you will let me know if I am right (or wrong).

OK I’m off to read my guide book for the Mammoth Area. If anyone has read my TR for Snake Dike you will know that 34 years ago I told myself I would one day climb in Yosemite Valley. I will know openly state that because of my SS I will one day climb in the Mammoth Area and this guide book will not just sit on my book shelf with all the other guide books.

Thank you SS.

Andy
portent

Social climber
your mom's house
Dec 25, 2013 - 04:54pm PT
Haven't read the book. It's getting packed for
my honeymoon next week!
Thanks again, great batch of gifts...
Bluelens

climber
Pasadena, CA
Dec 25, 2013 - 04:59pm PT
Thanks Pennsylvania Santa! Painstakingly packaged in bomber twin ziplocs, which I will repurpose as part of the gift!
"This is from my stash of homemade maple syrup from the 2013 season. I usually tap a dozen or so tress, and boil down a hundred or so gallons of sap to get 2 gallons of syrup….from Norway maple instead of sugar maple, as I much prefer the flavor…."
My staple is Trader Joe's Grade B...looking forward to sampling a finer brew....



johntp

Trad climber
socal
Dec 25, 2013 - 07:52pm PT
It's getting packed for my honeymoon next week!

Well congratulations! Where ya going?
adatesman

climber
philadelphia, pa
Dec 25, 2013 - 08:03pm PT
Bluelens- Not to try and talk you our of the buckwheat pancakes, but the *proper* pancake for this is my great-(great?)-grandmother's.... It's a very old PA Dutch recipe, and comes out somewhere between a crepe and what most people think of as a pancake. I meant to include the recipe, but forgot due to chasing a 3 year old.... :)

2 eggs
1 cup flour
2 cups milk
1 tbs sugar
2 tbs oil
4 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt

On a related note, seems I posted a pic of the syrup being made a long while back.... http://www.supertopo.com/climbing/thread.php?topic_id=1197468&msg=2071137#msg2071137

Enjoy, and I'm very much looking forward to the 2014 sugaring season!
portent

Social climber
your mom's house
Dec 25, 2013 - 09:43pm PT
The big island for 10 days... Packing my own whisky,
just in case Hawaii can't pull through :)
neebee

Social climber
calif/texas
Dec 26, 2013 - 03:08am PT
hey there say, portent! wow, as to this:

Haven't read the book. It's getting packed for
my honeymoon next week!
Thanks again, great batch of gifts...

happy honeymoon!!!


say, neat pancake and crepe recipes... don't use them a lot, but
i jot these down... :)

will see how they match some of what my old book has...


hmmm, still, thank you to my secret santa...
am delving into the muir book now and it
is deep-good read! will always remember how BOTH books
'alighted' and 'landed' here...

both were such fun, and in their 'entrances' as well!
added to the spunk!
SCseagoat

Trad climber
Santa Cruz
Dec 26, 2013 - 10:29am PT
It's arrived! Secret Santa from Sand City....practically my neighbor....my house watcher-overer has e'ed me that I have something from "Secret Santa, Sand City" awaiting for me! Can't wait, but must.

Christmas before, during AND after the 25th! Works for me!
PS. I wonder if you'll reveal yourself when I open it. A lot of Santas this year have remained Top Secret. I did too. Kinda fun twist on things!

Susan

Captain...or Skully

climber
Dec 26, 2013 - 05:04pm PT
I got no Santamans....how about a snowman?
SteveW

Trad climber
The state of confusion
Dec 26, 2013 - 05:25pm PT
Sorry for the delay. . .

My Secret Santa was Mr. Historian hisself, Steve Grossman.

He sent me the following AWESOME gift. . .

Oh, and it's signed by Steve Roper too!

^^^^^. . .and read a book that way!

Thanks so much, Steve!!!!
johntp

Trad climber
socal
Dec 27, 2013 - 02:23am PT
Hey! The person that sent me the spot headlamp never owned up. Who are you?

Thanks!
Andy Fielding

Trad climber
UK
Dec 27, 2013 - 05:44am PT
^^^ It wasn't me John but I did some detective work and discovered my SS was phylp. (I did ask if it was OK before "outing" her :) because I wanted to say publicly thank you for those gifts). Hope everyone had a great Christmas.
neebee

Social climber
calif/texas
Dec 27, 2013 - 07:29am PT
hey there say, skully, sure love that 'sideways' snowman, :))
John Butler

Social climber
SLC, Utah
Dec 27, 2013 - 10:05am PT
The person that sent me the spot headlamp never owned up

...that's why they call it "Secret" Santa...

:-)

JOEY.F

Gym climber
It's not rocket surgery
Dec 28, 2013 - 12:46am PT
So Cool...




Really nice. Shadows and light in Jtree beautiful depth of field. Only been there once, hope to go again. And love how it's "pre matted".
MisterE!!! Excellent.
neebee

Social climber
calif/texas
Dec 28, 2013 - 02:33pm PT
hey there say, all... did zip, get his gift...

did you, zip?

crustie

climber
SF, CA
Dec 28, 2013 - 08:06pm PT

Yay! I got a magnetic locking biner - woot woot! I've been eying these for a while, but it seemed excessive as i own a bunch of lockers...this is a perfect gift (something i really wanted but wouldn't buy myself)! Thanks!!

I also got a big ole bag of chalk, which is great b/c I'm heading to hot humid Thailand soon...and last time I was there, there is no good chalk. Might take extra and leave some behind for those in need...

and...some hot chili sauce that looks delicious.

Perhaps my favorite thing was the card (ok not really, but it did make me laugh), SS writes "i know it's probably terrifying getting edibles from a Supertopo person... but it's my Gramma's secret chili sauce". :) yum! The card envelope had a really nice snowman drawing. I love the extra little touches some of our ST members put into this. really cool.

Woot woot thanks Secret Santa! I love Supertopo and this exchange!!!!!

-Christie
(Sorry the photo kind of sucks, but I live in Seattle and it's so dark in my apt...)
frank wyman

Mountain climber
montana
Dec 30, 2013 - 11:39am PT
Arrived home from a extended vacation. Besides the piles of unpaid bills was a nice gift from Mr. BrassNuts. A reel-rock DVD. Will try and get some old geezer climbing freinds together and have a viewing.(I'll make sure they bring their teeth and Bi-Focals)....Again...Thank you..."Happy New Year"
neebee

Social climber
calif/texas
Dec 30, 2013 - 12:01pm PT
hey there say, frank (you ol' geezeer you) ...

happy to see you are home safe from trip and ready for the
ol' secret santa time...

:)
Sonic

Trad climber
Boulder, Co
Dec 30, 2013 - 12:05pm PT
Hey NeeBee

Glad you got the books!!! I ran into some family complications and almost didn't get it out on time! Glad you got them!

Merry Christmas!!!

-Wade
neebee

Social climber
calif/texas
Dec 30, 2013 - 03:11pm PT
hey there say, sonic/wade...

ahh, i know who my secret santa is!

thank you sooo much... yes! they got there on time, :)
each making it's own special entrance, :)

one, i read very fast and even passed it on, for sharing...

but--the MUIR one, is my treasure forever!
thank you so much!!!

i never knew there so much more about him, and his life, and i only
knew a bit of the sierra tales...
very great read here!
climbski2

Mountain climber
Anchorage AK, Reno NV
Dec 30, 2013 - 03:28pm PT
I sent my giftee a pm via ST mail to let them know who sent their gift but I'm thinking they did not get it.

Should I reveal? They did seem pretty happy.
climbski2

Mountain climber
Anchorage AK, Reno NV
Dec 30, 2013 - 03:43pm PT
Ahh cool :) Yep it's there. Dunno how it ended up in junk folder. Computers are not very bright. Glad you'll be enjoying the snow soon. We got didly over here around Tahoe. I guess I'll just have to stick with rock for now and perhaps head down to Jtree after the first. Not such a terrible thing.

Yep I saw your post. I had noticed when the package was picked up that morning.. couldn't believe how fast you posted up the pics.. kinda a trip seeing them on the net.

This was just a lot more exciting than I expected it to be when on a whim I chose to join the exchange this year.

Happy new year to all of you!
Mighty Hiker

climber
Vancouver, B.C.
Dec 30, 2013 - 04:11pm PT
The furrocious tigger playing with her new toys, from Abend.
Hopefully my less imaginative gifts got to their new home - because of customs requirements, the recipient knows who they're from. One in hobbit-speak is a sort of mathom.
Steve Grossman

Trad climber
Seattle, WA
Dec 30, 2013 - 04:56pm PT
SteveW- Though the signed OBP came from my stash, Santa isn't named Steve for your secret information. LOL

I can let the catch out of the bag but not the other way around. The OP is the Keeper of the Super Secret name list if I understand this scheme correctly

Cheers,
Steve Grossman
neebee

Social climber
calif/texas
Dec 30, 2013 - 06:07pm PT
hey there say, mighty hiker... awwww,i love those cat-shares...

say, i think i will make my cats some kind of box-toy like that...
i have two perfect boxes that should do...

very nice... one of them loves mischief, too much, :))
Andy Fielding

Trad climber
UK
Dec 30, 2013 - 08:25pm PT
I had a surprise waiting for me the other morning. The post man delivered a package with a Wyoming post mark. Inside was a CD with music played by Frank Sanders. As a taster I have set the first track "Angel Eyes" against a montage of photos from my trip to Yosemite in 2012. Hope you like the video and especially hope you like Frank's music. Enjoy.

[Click to View YouTube Video]
climbaholic

Trad climber
Oakland, CA
Dec 31, 2013 - 11:55am PT
A big thank you to my secret santa! ekat sent me a beautiful book on the Muir Trail by Dittli. Since moving to CA I've been planning on doing the trail. This definitely adds to the motivation!

Thanks!

neebee

Social climber
calif/texas
Dec 31, 2013 - 01:21pm PT
hey there say, climbaholic... wow, what a lovely book! i just got a muir book too... can't wait to read more of it, so i can share it by phone with my mom! it will be a double treasure, once i share what i read...

she loves the greatoutdoors, too... :)

thanks for sharing your gift and tree!
SteveW

Trad climber
The state of confusion
Dec 31, 2013 - 05:11pm PT


BIGTIME OOPS!!!!!
My apologies to Geno, who should have received a HUGE THANK YOU for
my present. (It was mailed by Mr. Historian hisself, Steve Grossman,
so I thought it was from him). . .

THANKS GENO!!!!
pocoloco1

Social climber
The Chihuahua Desert
Dec 31, 2013 - 05:29pm PT

Mountain Climb Instructions
Learn to climb and reach the top in 20 minutes!
The sport of rock climbing has grown immensely in recent years,however,not everyone is strong or agile enough to participate physically. If this description fits you,or even if you are an avid rock climbing enthusiast...THIS GAME IS FOR YOU!!!!!
Thank You Secret Santa from the Great White North!!!
Rockin' Gal

Trad climber
Boulder
Dec 31, 2013 - 06:50pm PT
Andy, Thanks so much for posting your video(and the gift, which I have fully perused). Frank's soundtrack is amazing!
Andy Fielding

Trad climber
UK
Dec 31, 2013 - 08:34pm PT
Andy, Thanks so much for posting your video(and the gift, which I have fully perused). Frank's soundtrack is amazing!

I hope the book conveys to you some of the history from this side of the water. I only just learnt how to make a video with pictures and music and I thought Franks track was ideal for that. There may be more to follow :D

It's just turned midnight here so here's wishing everyone a happy new year.

Andy
phylp

Trad climber
Millbrae, CA
Dec 31, 2013 - 10:44pm PT
Cool video Andy! Fun that someone sent you a bonus gift this year!

Happy new Year to all, and thanks (esp. Strider) for another stellar year of Secret Santa.
johntp

Trad climber
socal
Dec 31, 2013 - 10:52pm PT
Happy new Year to all, and thanks (esp. Strider) for another stellar year of Secret Santa.

Ditto. Thanks ya'll for jumping in the pool. Another fun time.
Ihateplastic

Trad climber
It ain't El Cap, Oregon
Jan 1, 2014 - 12:22am PT
Since the tracking number says it arrived I presume it did.
Jaybro

Social climber
Wolf City, Wyoming
Jan 1, 2014 - 12:49am PT
That was cool Andy! Frank is on a transcontinental bicycle tour now, but I'll make sure he sees it. He was on yosar one year in the eighties and all those climbs are familiar to him and I'm sure he'll dig the pairing you did. Oddly enough, yesterday, the 30th, was his birthday!
Lynne Leichtfuss

Sport climber
moving thru
Jan 1, 2014 - 01:23am PT
Yes, Strider, Thanks for all you do. You may not realize the joy you bring.

Happiest of New Years. Peace and Joy, lynne
Andy Fielding

Trad climber
UK
Jan 1, 2014 - 03:42pm PT
Oddly enough, yesterday, the 30th, was his birthday!

Hey Jaybro thanks for the post. If Franks birthday is 30th and mine is the 31st we should climb the tower together so we start climbing the tower on his birthday and finish it on mine!! That would be cool especially climbing it in the dark. :D
Nilepoc

Big Wall climber
Tx
Jan 1, 2014 - 04:09pm PT
Happy new year, and thanks for the opportunity to participate in the gift exchange. I am still wondering if my giftee received their present however.

Here's to a great year to come and I look forward to next years exchange.
Captain...or Skully

climber
Jan 1, 2014 - 05:39pm PT
Whomever my SS is has to wait until I get home. Sorry about that.
johntp

Trad climber
socal
Jan 1, 2014 - 06:06pm PT
Hey Kirk! Happy New Year!
Melissa

Gym climber
berkeley, ca
Jan 2, 2014 - 02:28pm PT

Many belated tanks to my thoughtful and generous Secret Santa, Nilepoc. I love the micro hex and I'm wearing it right now. It's an SMC 00 that my SS got from his dad's 70's rack and thought I might like as jewelry. (I do!). I also got two huge and fabulous photos: a night scene near hue I and a striking pic of a man by a very thoroughly and brightly graffitied boulder. I'm going to frame the latter for my office!

I'm sorry for being so late to post. We were back from my family's in PA less than a few hours before heading to my husband's family's for New Years and Christmas with them. I'm still traveling, and it was too dark to get nice photos of your beautiful photos on my brief stop home. I'll take and post them when I land again.

Thanks again. I couldn't be more pleased with these gifts.
Jaybro

Social climber
Wolf City, Wyoming
Jan 2, 2014 - 03:13pm PT
Cool stuff!
There was actually a CMI blue anodized hex that was, I believe, smaller, and only sold as jewelry
Mtnmun

Trad climber
Top of the Mountain Mun
Jan 3, 2014 - 01:04am PT
AYA thank you for the cool rock candle. It has a special spot in our living room. I love it.

Flyzo loved the dog treats and everyone else in the hood scarfed those delicious coolies. I'd post pics but my camera is out of batteries...stay tuned folks.
Lynne Leichtfuss

Sport climber
moving thru
Jan 3, 2014 - 01:39am PT
And the Love keeps (a)sending....warm peace to all....and keep up the posts. Cheers for an INcredible New Year to all.
SCseagoat

Trad climber
Santa Cruz
Jan 3, 2014 - 05:40pm PT
Like Melissa, the traveling had delayed me from posting up. My house watcher-overer had informed me about THE BOX having arrived a few days before Christmas. He asked me if I'd like him to open it for me. ARE YOU KIDDING ME (in my best John Boehner screaming voice). Someone always wantin' in on my fun...cuz they don't have enough of their own? Naw, probably cuz everyone I know of loves opening presents, especially with "Secret Santa" on the outside.
Well the box looks great, good size and, oh wait it's practically from a neighbor....Sand City, just down the road from Santa Cruz.
Oh shoot look at that....a lovely t shirt from Sanctuary Rock Gym....a beautiful sea foam color...and I must admit I've never been there...but now I will and wear my new shirt.
What...there's more? Oh my some homemade jams! Oh boy...the restraint needed to not tear into those. I'm going to try to save them for when we head north for skiing when we'll want the bestest of food and sustenance.
My guess is at least one of them won't make it north!
A careful examination of the packing paper and no revelation of my Secret Santa. That's ok. I think it's kinda cool not to know...there are so few real surprises or mysteries in this world.
Thank you Sand City Secret Santa. Maybe if you ever think you see me at Sanctuary you'll say "hi". I'll be wearing a seafoam-colored t shirt!
Susan
SteveW

Trad climber
The state of confusion
Jan 3, 2014 - 06:07pm PT

Strider
Thank you again for doing this--it really is a wonderful thing,
and our gift to you doesn't even touch the effort you put in.
Happy new year!
SCseagoat

Trad climber
Santa Cruz
Jan 3, 2014 - 09:17pm PT
Well there you go Charles! THANKS....I'll make it point to get there!
Thanks to you and your wife!
Susan.
Strider

Trad climber
ಠ_ಠ
Topic Author's Reply - Jan 4, 2014 - 03:44pm PT
I have been super busy with the end of the year and closing up my work for the winter break. Glad to see more and more people posting up and receiving their gifts.

I am fairly certain that at this point all gifts should have been delivered. At least the few people who got late deliveries have either confirmed they received them or tracking numbers show they have finally arrived.

Please, if you have not received your gift please let me know so I can try and figure out what is going on.

Thanks to everyone who participated this year. It was a great time and I am glad everyone enjoyed it as well.

Also, I will be trying to come up with a way to do the name matching in a better way for next year. A few people had the same person as last year or were sending to the same person they received from. The problem is that I do not have records from previous years (I delete them to ensure a modicum of privacy for you guys) but this years matching I will keep and try to come up with away to make sure the matching is more evenly spread out. Secret Santa 2.0 matching next year!

Happy New Years folks. Santa will see you again in ~10 months!

-n
johntp

Trad climber
socal
Jan 4, 2014 - 04:09pm PT
Santa will see you again in ~10 months!

Looking forward to it! Time flies these daze.
neebee

Social climber
calif/texas
Jan 4, 2014 - 08:42pm PT
hey there say, strider... thank you and have a sweet new year...
you are most kind to do this...


we know it takes time, and time is a good thing thing to share with friends:

happy good times, now, back to you... :)



*wow, enjoyed seeing the newest gift shares from you all!
Steve Grossman

Trad climber
Seattle, WA
Jan 4, 2014 - 08:52pm PT
Jaybro- CMI sold a dainty cabled 1/4" hex for actual use.
L

climber
California dreamin' on the farside of the world..
Jan 8, 2014 - 10:36am PT
Just returned from my travels and here's what I found awaiting me:


With this funny poem:


It's a balmy 5 degrees above zero in NY, so the beautiful beanie's no mystery. But how did my Secret Santa know that Organic Dark Espresso is my absolute favorite coffee???

Sneaky Secret Santa...thank you sooooooooooo much!
MisterE

climber
Jan 12, 2014 - 02:33pm PT
Here's me making good use of my butt pilla from Joey F - I didn't know I needed it until I got it...

SteveW

Trad climber
The state of confusion
Jan 12, 2014 - 10:27pm PT

Yer lookin' svelte, there, MrE!
Happy New Year!
neebee

Social climber
calif/texas
Jan 12, 2014 - 10:42pm PT
hey there say, L... just hopped on very fast... i just sent you an email... check and see... >:D<
JOEY.F

Gym climber
It's not rocket surgery
Jan 13, 2014 - 12:14am PT
^^^Nice use of pad, usually I only use it for my back while driving....

Enjoying finding a home for my bonus gift, Thanks MisterE.

zip

Trad climber
pacific beach, ca
Jan 13, 2014 - 10:33pm PT
I'm back, and Secret Santa came through big time. Neighbor said he took delivery on the 30th, and I had a nice surprise when I got home.

I got three designer t shirts, a custom chalk bag, and some work gloves.





Thanks again for the cool stuff.

MisterE

climber
Jan 13, 2014 - 11:18pm PT
So glad you got some stuff finally, Zip.

Cute chalk bag...bow chicka-bow-bow.
L

climber
California dreamin' on the farside of the world..
Jan 14, 2014 - 09:53am PT
I am in total lust with that chalkbag, Zip.

If it's a little too...er...furry for you, feel free to send it my way. ;-)
SCseagoat

Trad climber
Santa Cruz
Jan 14, 2014 - 10:47am PT
Ditto on that pink bunny fur (?) chalk bag. It just screams out CLIMB CLIMB

Susan
Jaybro

Social climber
Wolf City, Wyoming
Jan 14, 2014 - 10:58am PT
It's very, burningman....
zip

Trad climber
pacific beach, ca
Jan 14, 2014 - 08:43pm PT
Ladies,

I'm not sure I will ever use the chalk bag for climbing, but it might work for me as a manwarmer. I'll get back to you if that doesn't work out.
MisterE

climber
Jan 14, 2014 - 09:34pm PT
Watch that cinch tightness...

The wife says "worthless without pics"
Lynne Leichtfuss

Sport climber
moving thru
Jan 14, 2014 - 09:38pm PT
:))))
L

climber
California dreamin' on the farside of the world..
Jan 15, 2014 - 10:49am PT
The visual of a Chippendale-furry-thong-thing just had me snort Organic Coffee all over my desk.

JTM is correct: worthless without photos. ;-)
zip

Trad climber
pacific beach, ca
Jan 15, 2014 - 08:44pm PT
I'd be happy to model for the ladies, but I've already been banned once.
happiegrrrl

Trad climber
www.climbaddictdesigns.com
Jan 15, 2014 - 09:15pm PT
They do make "manwarmers"

http://www.etsy.com/search?q=penis%20cozies&view_type=gallery&ship_to=US

http://www.etsy.com/search?q=willie%20warmer&view_type=gallery&ship_to=US&ref=auto1
Seamstress

Trad climber
Yacolt, WA
Apr 4, 2014 - 12:44am PT

Moonlight thoroughly enjoyed MY gift this year. Unfortunately Moonlight had kidney failure and died in the prime of his life.


I will miss him trying to perch on the much too narrow window sill, climbing the Christmas Tree despite his eyes weeping from allergies to it, and his constant dead offerings of birds. He never did catch a hummingbird, but he was enthusiastic in the pursuit.
Lollie

Social climber
I'm Lolli.
Apr 4, 2014 - 07:19am PT
Seamstress, I'm sorry.
L

climber
California dreamin' on the farside of the world..
Apr 4, 2014 - 09:13am PT
Sorry for your loss, Seamstress. He was a beautiful cat burglar, for sure.
Leggs

Sport climber
Made in California
Apr 4, 2014 - 09:27am PT
Oh, Seamstress, I am so very sorry for your loss.
Our little furry ones become our best friends, offering up gifts of love in a purr, in a lizard, and in the pursuit of the elusive hummingbird.
May your Moonlight forever shine.


~peace to you, lisa mae
Michelle

Social climber
1187 Hunterwasser
Apr 4, 2014 - 09:48am PT
I'm so sorry :(
happiegrrrl

Trad climber
www.climbaddictdesigns.com
Apr 4, 2014 - 10:16am PT
Oh, so sorry that your precious kitty has passed. It's so hard.
Lynne Leichtfuss

Sport climber
moving thru
Apr 4, 2014 - 06:31pm PT
Just saw this. Seamstress I too am so very sorry. Our animal friends can create relationships that resonate deep within us. The great thing is you both had the best of all. And for that we say Cheers to you and your friend.
lynne
Edge

Trad climber
Boulder, CO
Apr 4, 2014 - 07:58pm PT
Sorry for your loss, Seamstress. I hope you can find time to get outdoors and heal.

My help is in the mountain
Where I take myself to heal
The earthly wounds
That time instills.
I find a rock with the sun on it
And a stream where the water runs gentle
And the trees which one by one give me company.
So must I stay for a long time
Until I have grown from the rock
And the stream is running through me
And I cannot tell myself from one tall tree.
Then I know that nothing touches me
Nor makes me run away.
My help is in the mountain
That I take away with me.
Earth cure me. Earth receive my woe.
Rock strengthen me. Rock receive my weakness.
Rain wash my suddenness away.
Rain receive my doubt.
Sun make sweet my song.
Sun receive the anger from my heart.
phylp

Trad climber
Millbrae, CA
Apr 4, 2014 - 09:12pm PT
Seamstress, So sorry to hear it. I'm sad for you ;-(
Phyl
Prod

Trad climber
Apr 27, 2014 - 10:56am PT
Hey Capt or Skully,

Did you get your gift?

Prod.
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