I am thinking very seriously about our Secret Santa exchange. This has been running now for about 8 years and was started to encourage group participation. However, in recent years a lot of people have joined who never contribute to the forum or post in projects and still don't. This means that my objective has not been achieved. I am really in two minds about continuing.

I have just seen this post. I have never participated and never received any gift. I agree with Deb and Chris, all the gifts should go to you who have done a lot of work over the years!
Hugs, Lidia

Hi Sue, though not a Secret Santa contributor, I have always thought it a fabulous idea to get folks from all around the World together. However, sometimes even if one is on the right track, you may eventually get run over. I also think that everyone who does like to contribute will be happy with your final decision.

Sue, Thank you for all the efforts and hard work you have put in organizing Secret Santa. God bless you for giving me a chance to participate in the Secret Santa exchange. I am sorry, I did not post on the forum. My machines are down and so was I. Just bought a new Bernina 700 learning to use. Just to say in Secret Santa, I have received gifts from Cutie sisters from all over the world.
God bless you Sue. Merry Christmas.

Sue I would like to thank you for all the work you do and have done in the past for these SS. My health has not been on my side this year and have done very little sewing/embroidery, so I would not be able to take part but /I do cherish the gifts that have been made for me by the Cuties and what ever you decide to do will be accepted by all.

Thank you for all the time you had done this for us. I am not sewing or embroidering anymore. Down sizing and getting rid of fabric. Kept some favorite fabric for a while longer.

Sue, I have never participated in your Secret Santa program, precisely for the reasons you stated. I did not feel I was active enough or knew others well enough to choose an appropriate gift. I am saddened by the fact that others like me would join in under these circumstances. Perhaps you could do it by invitation only, or set a criteria of a certain level of activity that has to be met before one can participate. The first idea sounds a little clique-ish, but the second might encourage others to be more active. I hope you can find a way to work things out that will make you and others happy. Let me wish you all a very early Merry Christmas!

I always look forward to the Secret Santa exchange but I realize how much work it is for you Sue, so whatever you decide will be okay with me. And a great big thank you for doing it all these years.

Sue I am another here who has had great fun making and receiving super gifts in the many swaps that you have so kindly organised. On the giving side it is very difficult preparing a gift for someone who hardly posts and slightly annoying when you have spend ages creating something for someone who hasn't the time/manners to comment on their gift. As you are the one that does the preparation of the swap it is ultimately up to you. Finally thanks to all who have participated and created all the great gifts we have received.

Sue, I always felt bad that you couldn't get as much fun and joy out of this event. What with all the hassle of assigning the Santa's and then having to track down the missing gifts and diplomatically nudge these late creators to, uhm, get their bums in gear! LOL! There were times in the past when I had never seen anything from the person I was stitching for which made it hard to decide what would please them. Therefore, I think we should all chose YOU as our Secret Santa recipient!

1 comment

by pennifold 21 Oct 2018

I agree with you Debbie, here, here. Great idea! Love Chris

Hmmmm I love making things for others but a lot of work goes into the organisation so will accept your decision whatever it is

Sue -while I always enjoy being part of Secret Santa - you are the one doing all the hard work and yes, I know what you mean about people not contributing. You make the decision - whatever you decide, we will understand! Thanks! Laura

I have already been thinking about what I would stitch and if there is a theme. I have received gifts that have inspired me and made a difference in my holiday season. I would like to participate if you choose to do it this year.
I also think the cute birthday exchange is a great idea, even though I was unable to participate the past couple of years.

I don't feel i have a say as there are only one or two here in Canada that take part and we already exchange a gift so i would say ***When in doubt throw it out****hugs

1 comment

by asterixsew 21 Oct 2018

I have posted gifts to different parts of the world in the SS exchange so its not limited to ones country of residence.

I so see your very valid points of perspective...I always love to participate in the secret exchanges but I know how much work is involved for you...I'm with Chris and Nan...I would miss not having one, will support whatever decision you make. It does seem a bit odd to me that so many who sign up are not very active...but perhaps there are other reasons why...not sure...

I agree with Chris. Lots of work and fewer and fewer interested. What ever works is ok by me as well. Hugs. Nan W

I know how hard you work on this SS Sue. I'm always one for it, but if you feel it's not going to be beneficial that's o.k. too. I'm happy to go with the flow, love Chris