October Secret Sister Sign up and theme choosing.

[light_sabe_r]

OKAY! I thought I'd give organising Secret Sister a go this month.

For those of you unfamiliar with Secret Sister... You've got until next Wednesday (4 October 2006) to PM me your name and address if you'd like to be involved. Next Thursday/Friday you'll get an address back. You send that woman a present according to the current theme. At this stage we haven't figured that out yet...

I'm not sure what to do for a theme again. According to last months poll, favourite bike tools were the runner up. We could run with that but at this stage it's open for suggestion.

[uforgot]

You know, it's been done before, but I really love the sock exchange. Can you ever have too many???

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

I like the idea of socks, and also favorite bike tools.
Also, how about writing instruments? (pens, pencils, crayons, markers, etc) There's an awful lot of fun ones out there, and lots within the price range.

[guanajagirl]

Socks are a fun idea. Or to go along with a earlier suggestion with writting tools. What about extending it to statonary? Encourage the snail mail route. ;)

[Tri Girl]

I like socks! I can never have enough of those in my drawer!
And if you wanted, you could throw in a cute little pen and pad of paper also.

[chickwhorips]

i'm for socks! all mine have holes in them!

[Bikingmomof3]

I PM'd you. I enjoy secret sister swaps. :)

My vote is for socks, I have a thing for socks, but will go with whatever.

[biking4health]

My vote is for socks too....you can never have too many pairs of cute socks.

Carol

[margo49]

I like cute note pads or pens.
But I got lovely sox-es last time and I enjoyed shopping for my SS's socks too

[tygab]

preferrably Red. ok so they're outta it this year, but october and Sox just seem to go well. wouldn't you agree Chicagoans? ;)

seriously I have no cool socks for cycling. I use boring running ones. How cool to add some fun ones from a secret sis!

I am sure I'll enjoy finding some, too!

[mimitabby]

I vote for sox. you can get really nice ones for the cost of a cheap teeshirt!
and they fit in an envelope!

[ClockworkOrange]

I think the Secret Sister thing sounds really good.

I am fascinated getting anything from the States.

Looking back on other SS threads, there have been items mentioned that I have never heard of, such as:

Spoke bracelet.....................now this looks so cool!
Chocolate band aides
Lip Schit
Bag Balm
Sport Beans
Honey Stinger

None of the above can we get in the UK.

Now socks, I recently saw some K. Bell Ladies Flame Socks, awesome!

Looking forward to sorting out something for my SS.

Sally :D

[CyclChyk]

Ok so apparently me wanting to somehow finagle someone sending me a bag of $50's is out so ....... socks works. Lip balm works. Anything bike related makes me happy but of course jsut being thought of makes me happy.

I guess I am trying to say..... what's the theme???

[Brina]

I am in - and up for whatever theme is chosen.

[wannaduacentury]

Socks and stationary sound fun. Since it's getting cool-maybe some more warmer socks for fall/winter riding. ?? Say the cute wooly booly socks?

Count me in btw :)

[light_sabe_r]

OKAY! So the theme is now officially socks and stationary!
Stationary because it hasn't been done before... and SOCKS because it's a sentimental favourite.

No quams about what sort of stationary... only that if you get an international secret sister the stationary can't have any unprocessed plant products because customs will seize it. (ie, bamboo bound books or recycled paper with rose petals or leaves... Aussie customs doesn't like that)

Can everyone PLEASE send me their shoe/sock sizes via PM if you haven't included it already??

If you haven't done this before most people spend about 10-20 bucks on their secret sister but you can absolutley spoil them too.

You'll all know your secret sister by next week. ^_^

[lauraelmore1033]

I would love to give or receive socks or stationary or whatever is decided appropriate!

[Haudlady]

OOOH! Socks! I'm so glad this was the choice - I found TE too late to join in the last sock exchange. I only have two pair of cycling socks, so it makes for a lot of laundry days :( - I would love to have another pair!

Thanks for organizing, Light Saber!

[Shiraz]

I sent my information. I have such fun being part of this.:D

[SunnyHazel]

I've never joined in the fun before, so I'm really looking forward to "my first time!" ;)

[xeney]

Is it bad form to ask that whoever draws my name, if you buy me cycling socks, make them as girly as possible? Because my husband steals all of my cycling socks. PINK. I need pink. Sigh.

[SunnyHazel]

Okay, I feel kinda stupid asking this question, but I just need to know -- what makes a sock a "cycling sock?" :confused:

[ClockworkOrange]

OKAY!

If you haven't done this before most people spend about 10-20 bucks on their secret sister but you can absolutley spoil them too.




‹(•¿•)› Please help..............what's a buck? ‹(•¿•)›

I'm assuming it's a dollar? :confused: :cool: :rolleyes: :p :D

Cheers.

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y272/Missbe/penguinpartybum.gif

YAY...............I just love suprises.........goes off to think wot to buy her SS

Sally

[Bikingmomof3]

[CENTER]‹(•¿•)› Please help..............what's a buck? ‹(•¿•)›

I'm assuming it's a dollar? :confused: :cool: :rolleyes: :p :D

Cheers.

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y272/Missbe/penguinpartybum.gif


Yes, it is indeed a dollar or about 50 cents to your pound. :)

[im4smiley]

I am in on this exchange. I agree you can never have too many socks!!! especially smiley socks!!! I have enough regular smiley socks to wear 2 weeks without wearing the same pair twice :) but so far only 1 pair of smiley cycle socks hint hint :)

[CyclChyk]

Okay, I feel kinda stupid asking this question, but I just need to know -- what makes a sock a "cycling sock?" :confused:

Well Sunny, hate to say it but I'm with you..... what exactly makes a cycling sock a "cycling sock"?? I've just been wearing my WallyWorld specials....

Feeling kinda dumb about now.......:confused:

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

Well Sunny, hate to say it but I'm with you..... what exactly makes a cycling sock a "cycling sock"?? :confused:

They cost more.

[xeney]

Well, not really. The socks I wear to work cost a lot more than cycling socks, as do hiking socks and even running socks. Cycling socks are probably the cheapest socks I own. To me a cycling sock is similar to a running sock: something that wicks, coolmax or something similar in the summer and something with wool or a warm synthetic in the winter. I buy special socks for cycling because they are usually cheaper than the very similar socks I buy for running; my running socks have a little padding in the sole and the cycling socks don't need that.

But any socks are good!

[Trek420]

CyclChyk "Well Sunny, hate to say it but I'm with you..... what exactly makes a cycling sock a "cycling sock"?? I've just been wearing my WallyWorld specials....

Feeling kinda dumb about now.......:confused:"

Don't feel dumb!!! good question

* they cost more :p
* they have funny and sometimes downright racey graphics on them

but seriously on a bike your footsies do lots and lots (and lots) of repetitive motion. Feet get hot (sweaty). Combine sweaty feet with repetitive pedaling and regular cotten socks and you have....drum roll .... blisters or worse.

bike socks use fabulous wicking fabrics that wicks sweat away
they have ultra smooth fabric so it does not chafe and ...
bike socks are ultra thin. you want a tight fit on your shoes whether you use bike shoes or not.

With bike shoes especially clipless if you turn your foot to unclip you want NO give. Foot moves, shoe moves, no surprises. :p Even with standard shoes a loose fit means chafeing.

An exception to that rule may be cold weather rides I like a looser fit so that insulating air gets in. Then we get into the subject of shoe covers and whether we buy the pricey ones or just cut off old wool socks and that's another story :p

[chickwhorips]

i pm'ed you but i think i put november instead of october. sorry not quite awake.

[extra-vert]

I just had a thought... how about refrigerator magnets??

[Bikingmomof3]

but seriously on a bike your footsies do lots and lots (and lots) of repetitive motion. Feet get hot (sweaty). Combine sweaty feet with repetitive pedaling and regular cotten socks and you have....drum roll .... blisters or worse.

bike socks use fabulous wicking fabrics that wicks sweat away
they have ultra smooth fabric so it does not chafe and ...
bike socks are ultra thin. you want a tight fit on your shoes whether you use bike shoes or not.

With bike shoes especially clipless if you turn your foot to unclip you want NO give. Foot moves, shoe moves, no surprises. :p Even with standard shoes a loose fit means chafeing.

Trek answered it quite well. :-) I alawys wear my cycling socks when biking and running socks for running.

[light_sabe_r]

Yes chickwhorips I got your PM. ^_^ lol I've gotten so many I don't care WHAT date it says as long as it's been recieved in the last few days. :P

Brina... You mentioned you were in but I haven't recieved anything yet. Don't forget to PM me!

[Bikingmomof3]

Light-I do so hope you got mine. I do think I sent it days ago, but it may have slipped my mind...

[tygab]

Well, not really. The socks I wear to work cost a lot more than cycling socks, as do hiking socks and even running socks. Cycling socks are probably the cheapest socks I own. To me a cycling sock is similar to a running sock: something that wicks, coolmax or something similar in the summer and something with wool or a warm synthetic in the winter. I buy special socks for cycling because they are usually cheaper than the very similar socks I buy for running; my running socks have a little padding in the sole and the cycling socks don't need that.

But any socks are good!

Funny, the socks I use for running and cycling are super thin, coolmax wicking socks. Some have dimpled tops so that the air flows better. None have padding anywhere. They are also pretty cheap.

I think of cycling socks as being stiffer, thicker and more expensive actually, than the running socks. And they feature interesting & strategically placed graphics.

[ClockworkOrange]

Be pretty good receiving socks, as generally I do not wear them, it is usually around November that I stop wearing flip flops but I am the exception to the rule, even in the UK.

Maybe fur lined flip flips would be the answer..............only kidding :D

Even then, I tend to wear trainers but no socks.

The only socks I would never wear are those weird short socks that just about cover your ankles.

You guys certainly know about socks, do you have the same problem we have in the UK, that when you take them out of the washing machine there is always one missing!!! I guess it's just one of life's little mysteries.

Sally

[SunnyHazel]

Thanks so much for answering the "cycling" sock question. I think I'm adequately prepared now to participate!!

[CyclChyk]

Because my husband steals all of my cycling socks. PINK. I need pink. Sigh.

I'm wondering if they make Luna bars in pink, cuz my hubby eats all my Luna bars.........


(oh, and LIGHT, I pm'ed you to count me in. Just wanna throw that out there in case I get lost in the shuffle.:) )

[light_sabe_r]

Yup I've got everyone else's PM'swho said they'd PM me here. ^_^

We now have a massive 40 participants!!! WOOHOO!

[short cut sally]

Make that 41, I just Pm'd you..shelly

[7rider]

Make that 41, I just Pm'd you..shelly

Okay, 42, cuz you gotta have an even number!
I'll PM you, too.

[margo49]

The only socks I would never wear are those weird short socks that just about cover your ankles.

Sally

Yeah, I was like that and then my SS sent me some and they are soooooooo pretty and flattering to the leg-line (I looked at my reflection in a huge plate-glass window on Saturday so this is totally up-to-the-minute info)
I am now a convert. Thank you to her for broadening my horizonz

I'm in btw. Just going to look up the appropriate size in American then I will pm Light Saber

[oxysback]

Yay!! Last month I was a day too late to join in. I'm so glad I caught October's in time!

[mimitabby]

Even then, I tend to wear trainers but no socks.

The only socks I would never wear are those weird short socks that just about cover your ankles.

You guys certainly know about socks, do you have the same problem we have in the UK, that when you take them out of the washing machine there is always one missing!!! I guess it's just one of life's little mysteries.

Sally

what are trainers?

[snapdragen]

what are trainers?

Tennies!

[oxysback]

what are trainers?

I believe they're sneakers...or tennis shoes, whatever you prefer :)

[mimitabby]

thankyou Oxy, it's always nice to have a translator, i always feel like such an idiot; i am supposed to be fluent in ENGLISH!
:p

[makbike]

What is the best way to let your SS know your gift is going to be late? I'm thinking of participating in the sock exchange but tight funds may delay things into the first part of November.

Thanks,
Marcie

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

What is the best way to let your SS know your gift is going to be late? I'm thinking of participating in the sock exchange but tight funds may delay things into the first part of November.

Thanks,
Marcie

Marcie, if it were me in your situation, I would simply wait to participate in the November SS exchange instead. I wouldn't want to get my gift on time but make my SS have to wait til the next month while everyone else was talking about the SS gifts they received.

[Nanci]

Hi Marcie,

Despite my best intentions, my SS gifts always seem to be late. I think (hope) the quality makes up for the lateness...Take Sept for example- I can't even pay my freaking house payment due to the Six Gap trip. First time in four years. Never the less, I still managed to acquire the major portion of the SS September gift. BUT I have to add on some extras, because that's just how I am. So the delivery will be delayed. SS will understand!

Nanci

[jeannierides]

I don't think being late is too big a deal... as long as you actually send the gift! I was unfortunately pretty late sending my August gift but I did send it. I never even received one myself... and I think there was at least one other person that hasn't received her gift for July!:eek: I dont know if it was simply a mixup in getting the names out, or if sisters have actually NOT sent out gifts.:(

[DDH]

I'm fairly new and was wondering if I am able to join in on this?

I would like to do this but don't want to intrude if you have to be a member a certain length of time or something.

[oxysback]

thankyou Oxy, it's always nice to have a translator, i always feel like such an idiot; i am supposed to be fluent in ENGLISH!
:p

If it makes you feel any better...I only know it from reading Harry Potter! :p

[GLC1968]

I'm fairly new and was wondering if I am able to join in on this?

I would like to do this but don't want to intrude if you have to be a member a certain length of time or something.

DDH - Of course you can join! Just PM your name, mailing address and shoe/sock size to light_sabe_r by Wednesday and she'll add you to the list. Everyone is welcome!! :)

[mimitabby]

If it makes you feel any better...I only know it from reading Harry Potter! :p

Oh, no, now I'm being exposed for not reading all the Harry Potter's !! the shame of it!!

I was very lucky my first Secret Sister was a very punctual person. But I guess there is a risk that someone is NOT going to send a gift. If you haven't gotten one from AUGUST!!! write to the organizer. Perhaps we have a repeat offender (it IS possible) and maybe we can avoid disappointing people by keeping track?

[wannaduacentury]

I don't think being late is too big a deal... as long as you actually send the gift! I was unfortunately pretty late sending my August gift but I did send it. I never even received one myself... and I think there was at least one other person that hasn't received her gift for July!:eek: I dont know if it was simply a mixup in getting the names out, or if sisters have actually NOT sent out gifts.:(

I sent one for July and didn't get one back. It was my first exchange too, don't know where the hiccup happened, but it is passed and I've had time to commit to another(October) so here we gooooo. Cheers Jennifer

p.s. It 's forgiven(hearts-hearts).

[wannaduacentury]

Marcie, if it were me in your situation, I would simply wait to participate in the November SS exchange instead. I wouldn't want to get my gift on time but make my SS have to wait til the next month while everyone else was talking about the SS gifts they received.


This is just my opinion and anyone can agree or disagree, but I believe if you aren't able to participate for any reason(crammed schedule, funds etc.) just politely bow out for that time, there's always another exchange around the corner. That's what I did Aug & sept. to be fair to others and myself. Jennifer

[light_sabe_r]

Well I thought I'd let you know where we all stand.

We've got over 50 women on board this month

about 8 internationalists and the rest from USA.

:D

You still have 1-2 days to sign up. FRIDAY MORNING AEST I'll be sending details out. That'll be late thursday night for all you girls in the states. (midday friday for the New Zealanders)

[Patti37]

I sent one for July and didn't get one back. It was my first exchange too, don't know where the hiccup happened, but it is passed and I've had time to commit to another(October) so here we gooooo. Cheers Jennifer

p.s. It 's forgiven(hearts-hearts).

I didn't get one for July also and debated whether or not to continue. However, I decided to keep the faith and in August I was definitely rewarded for signing up again.

[wannaduacentury]

I didn't get one for July also and debated whether or not to continue. However, I decided to keep the faith and in August I was definitely rewarded for signing up again.


AMEN!!!

[cherinyc]

I just PM'd you light. I'm in. My last stint was in August with the coffee...mmmmm coffee.

Anyway, if anyone gets me, I loooove these. Totally my style
http://www.rei.com/online/store/ProductDisplay?productId=48015767&storeId=8000&catalogId=40000008000&langId=-1&color=GREEN&img=/media/714369.jpg&view=large

[light_sabe_r]

That's it. All the secret sisters should have recieved who they're sending them too by now.

:cool:

I can relax and go shopping for socks and notebooks now.

STATS:
59 Women signed up
That means there are 59 Parcels getting out there:

51 to the USA
3 to Australia
2 to United Kingdom/England
1 to Norway
1 to Israel
1 to New Zealand


WOOHOO there's a lot of us. I hope all the postal services can handle it. :P

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

LightSabe-r,
THANK YOU for for doing all the organizing work to make the Oct SS event happen!

This is my first time participating in it and I am excited! :D

[Trekhawk]

Well done Light Sabre.:)

[CyclChyk]

Ditto! You handled it beautifully!

I'm so excited!

[Xrayted]

thanks light saber for all the hard work. great job!

[DDH]

Thanks Light, I'm ready to go shopping now. I'm excited, this is my first time.

[laughlaugh18]

Ditto on the thanks, Light.

And now the most fun part: searching posts to get to know my SS; she doesn't have as many posts as my last SS, but still enough to work with :D

[ClockworkOrange]

Well organised Light

Now I can blame you for making me late for work! :rolleyes:

It was fun last night..........reading through threads and posts that my SS had written on.

Think I have enough info, to buy some good things. :D

Have a good day everybody.

Sally

[Patti37]

Thank you so much for organizing this month's secret sister. I love that you posted where everyone was from. We are a pretty interesting group.

[margo49]

Well done, Light
I got the same SS as last time. How's that for cool and being in tune with the Universe?
I got my Sept SS one today and she put in a tiny passport-size photo which is a really cute idea that I will adopt from now on.

[DDH]

I have a quick question on the SS thing. Do we tell our identies to our SS when we send the items or do we still keep it secret? Since this is my first time, I wasn't sure.

[chickwhorips]

I have a quick question on the SS thing. Do we tell our identies to our SS when we send the items or do we still keep it secret? Since this is my first time, I wasn't sure.

that is up to you. you can if you want, otherwise let them figure it out for herself.

[Bikingmomof3]

Thak You Light for coordinating this one. I love swapping. :)

[Duck on Wheels]

Thanks LS for the secret sister info. Hmmm. Wonder who she is on line ... All I know is her real name and shoe size. Nothing about favourite colour or animal or whether she's addicted to coffee or chocolate or ... Shopping will be a fun challenge. I'm off to town tomorrow to see what I can find that will appeal to a total stranger. Fun! :p

[Aggie_Ama]

You know I didn't put my screen name in the sign up.... Hmm.... Hope this doesn't cause any stress for my SS.

I already started shopping today. I will not be behind this month, it is traveling a long way!!

[DDH]

I started shopping today too, I am excited, but lordy, I'm so nervous that I will get something that I like but they won't. I hope she likes what I got. I'm not done, but I have started and it was stressful and fun at the same time, if you know what I mean. I've gone through her post looking for hints, favorite colors, misc, and nothing. Hopeully my taste will be okay. LOL

[uforgot]

I started shopping today too, I am excited, but lordy, I'm so nervous that I will get something that I like but they won't. I hope she likes what I got. I'm not done, but I have started and it was stressful and fun at the same time, if you know what I mean. I've gone through her post looking for hints, favorite colors, misc, and nothing. Hopeully my taste will be okay. LOL

How can someone not like something you took the time and effort to pick out? It's not about the color or the gift, it's about sharing. We've become a nation of gift certificates and "you can always take it back". It really annoys me when I hear the commercials after Christmas..."Didn't get what you wanted, well for only....". Geeez, we have expectations for gifts? I'm not even crazy about the posts on here where people are telling their ss's what to get them. If you have to have a certain pair of socks, just get them yourself!

You are having a wonderful time, you are taking a lot of time and making a huge effort for your ss. Don't stress yourself out over it. You obviously are having a blast doing the ss thing. It's the fact that someone was thinking of me that will make me love whatever I receive!!!!

[NJBikeGal]

How can someone not like something you took the time and effort to pick out? It's not about the color or the gift, it's about sharing. We've become a nation of gift certificates and "you can always take it back". It really annoys me when I hear the commercials after Christmas..."Didn't get what you wanted, well for only....". Geeez, we have expectations for gifts? I'm not even crazy about the posts on here where people are telling their ss's what to get them. If you have to have a certain pair of socks, just get them yourself!

You are having a wonderful time, you are taking a lot of time and making a huge effort for your ss. Don't stress yourself out over it. You obviously are having a blast doing the ss thing. It's the fact that someone was thinking of me that will make me love whatever I receive!!!!

I do not know what you are talking about, but whoever gets something for me better do it RIGHT!! :) ha! Just kidding. I agree...I mean, who could possibly know that I'm currently fascinated with the color blue (which I actually wear too much), my road bike is yellow, MTB is red and black...<looks around...'boy, I hope my secret sister is watching!!>
:D

[uforgot]

I do not know what you are talking about, but whoever gets something for me better do it RIGHT!! :) ha! Just kidding. I agree...I mean, who could possibly know that I'm currently fascinated with the color blue (which I actually wear too much), my road bike is yellow, MTB is red and black...<looks around...'boy, I hope my secret sister is watching!!>
:D

Pink and Green socks for you!!!!

[Trekhawk]

How can someone not like something you took the time and effort to pick out? It's not about the color or the gift, it's about sharing. We've become a nation of gift certificates and "you can always take it back". It really annoys me when I hear the commercials after Christmas..."Didn't get what you wanted, well for only....". Geeez, we have expectations for gifts? I'm not even crazy about the posts on here where people are telling their ss's what to get them. If you have to have a certain pair of socks, just get them yourself!

You are having a wonderful time, you are taking a lot of time and making a huge effort for your ss. Don't stress yourself out over it. You obviously are having a blast doing the ss thing. It's the fact that someone was thinking of me that will make me love whatever I receive!!!!

Well said.:D :D

[Tri Girl]

How can someone not like something you took the time and effort to pick out? It's not about the color or the gift, it's about sharing. It's the fact that someone was thinking of me that will make me love whatever I receive!!!!

I agree!!! Even if I don't like it, I'd still happily wear it because somebody picked it out for me- and they obviously found it to be beautiful. No matter color, pattern, or even fit- because a gift is a gift and I'm thankful someone thinks enough of me to spend their hard-earned money to buy it for me!!!
I love that we do this- it really reminds you of how wonderful people around the world are! Humans are pretty darn kind creatures (well, the vast majority of them anyway :) ).

[MomOnBike]

OK, I've got this serious Blue thing going on with my bike. Blue bikes, blue shorts, shirts, gloves, helmet (actually, the current one is black, but only 'cause the LBS didn't have blue, and it's getting replaced ASAP), blue this, that and the other.

The first SS exchange, I got a pair of pink, sparkly Road Queen socks. I never, ever, even consider thinking of buying myself anything pink - or sparkly. So guess what? Those are my favorite socks. I feel my horizons (as opposed to my backside :) ) expanding every time I put them on. It's GREAT!

So don't worry too much. What's to dislike about Bike Stuff, anyway?

[xeney]

Oh, I will love whatever I get. If it is ungirly or especially if it happens to be black and/or reddish orange, I will have to keep it under lock and key to keep my husband from stealing it because we wear the same size socks, but I will love it anyway.

(My road bike is celeste, so a lot of things clash, but I wear them anyway. My mountain bike is boring silver so everything matches it. I am seriously considering sprucing it up with some pink flame decals I saw, just because it is so boring I can hardly stand to ride it.)

[laughlaugh18]

Geeez, we have expectations for gifts? I'm not even crazy about the posts on here where people are telling their ss's what to get them. . . .

I don't see it as folks having "expectations"; I see it as hints to help me out :) . Watching these boards, I can't imagine anyone here being unappreciative of what they're sent. But if I can send my SS something that's spot on for her because of something I read in her posts, all the better!! (right, DirtDiva? :D :D )

But I do have a sock sizing question. If someone says their sock size is 6-10 and the socks you want to get are only mens small, medium or large (with no sizing chart), would you get the small or the medium?

[CyclChyk]

I just want to say (bianchi) that no matter what I get (celesteandnakedcarbon) that I will love it and (bianchicolorceleste) be happy with whatever I get because (nakedcarbonanddidImentionbianchi?) someone took the time to think of ME.......

[Aggie_Ama]

Donna- It is completely the thought. Every month the things have been very different. And I can tell you I have enjoyed every month that I have participated. I have gotten new treats, socks I would never have picked (but I really like them), socks I would have picked, hot chocolate I can't get in Texas and a t-shirt my parents threatened to steal off my back!

Every month I have done SS has been a blast, who doesn't love getting a gift for no reason at all? I have enjoyed giving gifts and I am not ashamed to say I really enjoy receiving gifts! If you put thought into it I am sure you SS will love it. Don't stress, I bet your SS is one lucky gal with all the thought going into your gift. :D

[kerrybelle]

I totally agree with what everyone has said. It's all about the thought, time & effort someone took to choose and get that gift for you. I, too, have been happy surprised with SS gift so far. I'm really not expecting that to change anytime soon.

Good luck and have fun shopping and recieving!

Kerry

[Aggie_Ama]

This month was so much fun!! I have my gift and now I just need to package it up. :D

[Bikingmomof3]

I absolutely love swapping! It is so much fun to shop for another person and hope the package brightens their day. I know my day is always brightened when my gift comes. :)

[Xrayted]

If anyone's interested, http://www.cafepress.com is a nice site with themes. You can find a printed product for just about any topic. I just put in "cycling" and came up with dozens of pages of things to pick from. You can narrow the search to journals, cards, calendars, mugs, t-shirts... I've bought from them in the past and they seemed quite professional to deal with.

Cindy

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

Had fun this morning shopping for my secret sister! :D

[ClockworkOrange]

Bad day: Am in agony, have a torn muscle in my ribs, through playing about, spent all afternoon at A&E, in the hospital.

Even worse, cannot ride my bike.

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y272/Missbe/Monkey_hides.gif

Good day: Have got my goodies almost ready to send to my SS, hope she will like everything.



Sally

[mimitabby]

Bad day: Am in agony, have a torn muscle in my ribs, through playing about, spent all afternoon at A&E, in the hospital.

Even worse, cannot ride my bike.

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y272/Missbe/Monkey_hides.gif

Good day: Have got my goodies almost ready to send to my SS, hope she will like everything.



Sally

I hope you feel better soon!!
m

[short cut sally]

Today was going to be my cyber shopping day for socks for my SS. I was thinking warm wool socks as she lives in a cooler state..what to my wishes appear, but from TE a sale on such the things I was looking for. So I called TE regarding some questions on these ( Molly was very helpful) and can't wait to place my order tomorrow..now the big decision is what color? HHMMmmm!

[chickwhorips]

i got the email of the sale too... and i just sent my gift out to my SS today. hopefully she likes it. i was actually able to shop for it in person instead of online. its a great accomplishment for me!

[Aggie_Ama]

I got that email too. Seeing as my SS won't be seeing cold anytime soon, I picked up some socks locally. And a record for me.... I mailed it today!! I usually mail it the last week of the month. Of course she may not get it until the last week of the month! :D

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

Mailed my secret sister's package off today!
Most appropriately, I brought it to the P.O. on my bicycle. :)

[CyclChyk]

Yeh Lisa! Supporting the cause! I'm jealous cuz I might get killed if I try to ride my bike to the PO. Most roads around where I live aren't so biker friendly.

HOWEVER - We went to Performance Bike in Hotlanta today, and I picked up the last of my SS's gift and I will be mailing it off tomorrow.

YEH! This is fun :)

[Aggie_Ama]

Mailed my secret sister's package off today!
Most appropriately, I brought it to the P.O. on my bicycle. :)

You know in November I will finally be able to do this!! We are moving to a quieter town and the post office will be a short bike ride away. I might need to start researching some racks/panniers. Of course I can only imagine the look on the small Texas town's locals when they see the new resident running errands on her bike for the pure joy of it! I think it would be something like this: :confused:

[uforgot]

You know in November I will finally be able to do this!! We are moving to a quieter town and the post office will be a short bike ride away. I might need to start researching some racks/panniers. Of course I can only imagine the look on the small Texas town's locals when they see the new resident running errands on her bike for the pure joy of it! I think it would be something like this: :confused:

Aggie, YOU may also be surprised. I live in a verrrry small town. It is rather dangerous riding to the PO as I'm expected to wave to every car, (because they always honk and wave) I'm always given the right-of-way at the town's only 4 way stop, and you are treated with utmost courtesy. You may have to have several conversations AT the post office about how great/terrible the weather is for a bike, or every time you walk into a store, the cashier will ask "Did you ride your bike today?" Eventually some want to know where you purchased your bike, what kind do you think THEY should get, and more often than not people tell me how great it is that I'm always on it, they wish they had that kind of energy...Yup, kind of crazy here in smallville.:D

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

You know in November I will finally be able to do this!! We are moving to a quieter town and the post office will be a short bike ride away. I might need to start researching some racks/panniers. Of course I can only imagine the look on the small Texas town's locals when they see the new resident running errands on her bike for the pure joy of it! I think it would be something like this: :confused:

No, they'll be secretly jealous. and will wish THEY had a bike and were free spirits enough to get in shape, save gas, and go forth on their OWN POWER! :)

[Aggie_Ama]

Well, I think they will still be puzzled. We are moving to a small (pop. 1,400), sprawling town outside Austin. It is close enough to commute to Austin, too far and small to be a suburb. This is the same are my DH and I got a firecracker thrown at us on July 3rd. The bubbas in their big trucks may not understand. :rolleyes: Still looking forward to moving and riding, the area has a lot of great quiet roads. In fact that is the main reason we chose it over some other areas!

I might be pleasantly surprised when we move up there. :)

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

Aggie, YOU may also be surprised. I live in a verrrry small town. ....You may have to have several conversations AT the post office about how great/terrible the weather is for a bike, or every time you walk into a store, the cashier will ask "Did you ride your bike today?" Eventually some want to know where you purchased your bike, what kind do you think THEY should get, and more often than not people tell me how great it is that I'm always on it, they wish they had that kind of energy...Yup, kind of crazy here in smallville.:D

I experience this every day in my small town. Even people who don't know me come up to me in a store to tell me they've gotten their bike out and are cleaning it up because of seeing me ride around doing errands. Everyone asks me where I am riding today. A older stranger came up to me today in the shoe store, and merely said "Fifty-two pounds!" I answered him "You mean you lost 52 pounds?" "Yes, by walking and hiking every day!" he answered proudly. It's weird and wonderful how biking can bring out the inner child excitement in people. All they have to do is see you and they get enthused.
Imagine what a happy world it would be if everyone rode bikes and talked about their biking with strangers!

[chickwhorips]

yup people think i'm crazy for running and biking here, because they are jealous! i love it!

they are very nice around here. (the ones that live here, the visitors... well see dear so and so and they need a swift kick in the shin to say the least.) having a hard time imagining myself in a bigger town after here. something with a couple hundered scares me now! i'm terrified of going back to phoenix. but enough about me and living in isolation.....

glad to hear there are others that like living in small places.

[short cut sally]

I wished I didn't have to shop online for some things re; to biking. I do live in the sticks as they are called. The closest (LBS) is about 20 minutes away, he sells only bikes, and not one thing more. The nice shops are like 1 hour 10 mins. away one way via vehicle, they offer womens things to view and buy. So that limits my shopping pleasure to catalogs and the computer. So my socks were ordered this morning at TE, to be sent to me so I can pkg. along with other items and send off to my SS. NOt to threadjack, but I tend to agree with Lisa SH, I live in the country and usually ride around a small town as part of my routine, I get from people "I saw you out on your bike"..Or this is the best, and I have yet to figure this out.." I thought that was you, I could tell by your shape" or best yet, "your legs"..now clad in spandex, helmet, glasses, and the whole get up..how can these people figure this out? I guess people pay more attention than I thought..Oh well, end of jack,

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

Yes Shelly, I get the same thing!...."I saw you all the way over in New Lebanon the other day on your bike, was that you? Did you ride all the way over there?? Where are you going today??" It almost makes me feel like I am a torchbearer of some sort- people getting a vicarious thrill over spotting me biking in adjacent towns....is it like a "Where's Elmo?" kind of thing? :rolleyes:

[guanajagirl]

Wow the month is flying by! I had a blast shoping for my SS today and had to pry myself out of the LBS when i started looking at their winter gear! And i just got back from walking my package to the bike shop.

[ClockworkOrange]

I am very happy, at long last everything was ready to take to the Post Office..........bit heavier than what I thought but what the heck, so I http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y272/Missbe/Bear_on_bike.gif off to the Post Office and now it's on it's way.

So, my SS should receive her parcel in approximately one week.

It is so weird the pleasure I got from buying socks plus all the little extras to send to a complete stranger but it was also a lot of fun. :)

Sally

[Running Mommy]

And when I say SOUTH I mean SOUTH!! :D
I don't know how long international shipping takes, so hopefully she get's it soon. And hopefully she enjoys the goodies I included... Lot's of fun bits from sunny AZ. :)

[Patti37]

I received my package from Washington state yesterday. There was an Amazon box sitting on my porch. I kept thinking I haven't ordered anything from Amazon recently...and then thought YIPEE me surprise has arrived.

Thank you so much for the wonderful socks. I cannot wait to try them out. I love the notecards. I write to people and usually send notecards. These are perfect.

Thank you!

[Trek420]

shellyj "Today was going to be my cyber shopping day for socks for my SS. I was thinking warm wool socks as she lives in a cooler state..what to my wishes appear, but from TE a sale on such the things I was looking for."

hmmmm, ya think they know we're doing Sock Secret Sister? Can we influence what goes on sale next month?

[JmcG]

Ok, this sounds like a lot of fun! I want to get in on this whole secret sister thing next month! When are we deciding on November's treat??

[Xrayted]

ok, it's on it's way. I meant to send it Tues but sometimes life gets in the way. Hope my SS likes what I've picked. :D

[wannaduacentury]

The socks I ordered are in so I'm ready to send the goodies to my SS. They'll be in transit by monday(which gives me time to go to the post office :) I hope she likes them. Jennifer

[wannaduacentury]

shellyj "Today was going to be my cyber shopping day for socks for my SS. I was thinking warm wool socks as she lives in a cooler state..what to my wishes appear, but from TE a sale on such the things I was looking for."

hmmmm, ya think they know we're doing Sock Secret Sister? Can we influence what goes on sale next month?

Hey Trek, I saw those wool socks too, so I got my SS her socks and ordered me a pair too, those knee high stripacinno(sp?) socks, I needed those last saturday morning on my club ride because my lower legs were cold even w/ tights on. They're a little high for one pair, but I said, it's only one pair and they feel wonderful. So if anyone else has their eye on them, they're worth it. Jennifer

[crazycanuck]

Thanks to TE i found my SS some nice warm socks for the winter up yonder in North America...

The rest of the goodies will be sent early next week.

Have a good one
c

[DDH]

I had so much fun shopping for my SS and trying to find cute socks and other things to add. I did have difficulty with the stationary though. Good grief, I would never had imagined finding even the simplist stationary would be so difficult. They just don't have much of that kind of stuff around here, or I just don't know where to look. LOL (which could easily be the case) :rolleyes:


I had all the fun in the world though and got her package sent off in the mail yesterday. It is very expensive to send stuff outside the United States, and I was told that it is even more expensive from the other side, that it was cheaper for us. First time I had ever sent anything outside the States, it was interesting and I learned something new on top of it.
Anyway, she should be getting her items according to the post office in 7 to 10 days, so hopefully she will get them before the end of the month. I am very sorry if it is late though, I really tried to get them out in time.

It was great fun and I hope she has great fun with all the socks.

I was going to send Chocolate because I saw in 1 post when I was looking for clues that she liked Chocolate, however I decided against it because I wasn't sure how it would fair through the mail if it was real hot or anything.
You girls have any idea how things like that would do through the mail, regardless if it is mailed in the United States or overseas?
I would like to know for the next time how to send food type items should I decide I want to do that. Or is that maybe now a good idea?

[Bikingmomof3]

You girls have any idea how things like that would do through the mail, regardless if it is mailed in the United States or overseas?
I would like to know for the next time how to send food type items should I decide I want to do that. Or is that maybe now a good idea?

I have sent and received chocolate and other goodies to and from overseas without any problems. :)

[crazycanuck]

Hey DDH...

If you ever get a secret sister in Australia or NZ, I can assure you that there's a possibility that it will be opened but don't worry....Just make sure you write exactly what's inside on the customs dec then your ss won't get a "what can't be mailed to Australia" pamphlet in their package.

I posted a link a while back but will post it again just for something to read!!!

www.aqis.gov.au

c

[oxysback]

Ok...the socks I ordered for my SS finally came yesterday. Sheesh! Good thing I ordered them early. I'll be mailing things off today. Hopefully she'll get them before the end of the month since package has to travel a loooooooooong way!

DDH, I had trouble finding stationary, too. I got some nice looking cards and envelopes, but I was hoping for something unique to this area. I did throw in a few cool small notebooks. I guess in this electronic age the art of letter writing is not what it once was.

[uk elephant]

I finally got my SS package sent off today too. The socks I had ordered arrived yesterday and I headed off to the little bookshop in the village where I live to look for stationary. Think I found some nice things. And it was an excuse to check out the bookstoore. I've passed by many times, but never had any reason to go in. And it is one of the very few shops still open in this village so I was happy to give them some business. I will definitely be back when it is time for Christmas shopping.

As for sending chocolate, DDH, I've never had any trouble. I've both sent and recieved chocolate from across the Atlantic and it has always tasted delicious once opened. For other food items, definitely check out the customs regulations before sending. Australia allows almost nothing and most countries will not allow meat or soft cheese. I had friends in Norway send me a package with salami when I was living in Wisconsin. The package arrived, but no salami. Instead there was a letter from the customs people saying that the contents of the package had been confiscated and destroyed. Wonder what salami looks like expoloded.....

[Tri Girl]

THANKS GUANAJAGIRL!!!

I love, love, love the socks (I love the fruity ones, and I even like the TX socks :D - this Okie will wear them with pride). I'm just finishing up my date book, so the one you sent will come in most handy when the new year starts! Thank you again sooooo very much!!!
You made my day!!!! :) :) :) :)

[kerrybelle]

Mine will be going out this week. I hope my SS understands and isn't being too impatient :o Usually, I get my package out right away.

Kerry

[snapdragen]

The sox match my personality - slightly mismatched:p and the Monkey Zen magnets are perfect for a non-letter writer like me. I don't have to share the candy, right?

[tygab]

Dear SS,

I found some fun things for this month but they aren't here yet :(. I would have figured everything'd be in this week in time for me to get sent out.

I don't know when I'll be able to send, hoping to by next weekend. Please be patient!

Your SS.

[Trekhawk]

Thanks Secret Sister (KiwiGirl???)
I love the socks and the hei matau notebook. It was such a nice suprise to get a parcel from NZ.

I will be giving those socks a good try out tomorrow.:D

[Patti37]

To my secret sister,

The package just went out yesterday. It is headed to a country other than the U.S. I was told it would take 4-6 days so it may not make it by the 31st. So don't despair...it is on the way.

Also, I cannot believe I forgot to add a note with the package. After I mailed it I said oh no...there is no letter/note included. Sorry about that!

[Trek420]

uk elephant "I had friends in Norway send me a package with salami when I was living in Wisconsin. The package arrived, but no salami. Instead there was a letter from the customs people saying that the contents of the package had been confiscated and destroyed. Wonder what salami looks like expoloded....."

I just noticed this, thanks for coffee spewed across my screen.

Oh imagine the specially trained salami sniffing dogs! Oh look, she's sitting and pointing! She's detected a salami! Good dog! Here's a treat (wag wag wag).

Send for the remote salami retrieval robot, hurry! That salami could explode at any time...hide behind bomb proof screen while robot (beep beep beep) encases salami in sour dough roll with mustard and provalone then takes salami out behind bomb proof retaining wall.

Fully suited up bomb squad makes sure the salami is safely detonated by remote.

Whew, that was close.

thanks UK I feel much safer now knowing that the Dept. of Homeland Protection is ever aware of salami at our boarder.