secret quonsar 2017: Signups are Open! October 31, 2017 10:00 PM Subscribe
It's secret quonsar time again! Participants will find out who they have drawn on Saturday, November 11, and the gift send by (or on) date is Friday, December 1*. Please sign up by 11:59 PM EST on Thursday, November 9. The spending guideline: $10-20.
secret quonsar (wiki) is the MeFi holiday-adjacent gift swap. Each participant sends a gift to an awesome Mefite; each participant receives a gift from an awesome Mefite. Awesomeness and gifts abound.
Signing Up
There will be a link at the end of this post. Follow it. We need an actual MeFi username, an email address you check, your name & mailing address, and some good guidance for the person who draws your name. (If you are strongly google-averse, you may sign up with a MeFi sockpuppet name and throwaway account. You must agree to check the account until the gift you sent arrives and you receive your gift, and to send me via MeMail your primary MeFi handle AND the sockpuppet handle which I will pass onto the person who draws your name via MeMail.)
You will get a confirmation email within 36 hours of signing up that will show you the information you submitted. Please check your spam/junk mail folder. If you do not get this confirmation within 48 hours, send me a memail. If you have not gotten a confirmation email, you may not be signed up or you entered the wrong email address. We can fix that.
Fun Fact: Every year, several people accidentally typo their own email addresses, which leads to confusion and consternation, and sometimes no gift for someone until late in the season.
You will get your draw via email. It will contain key information about the person you will be gifting: MeFi username, a real world name, mailing address, and hopefully helpful guidance from the person you drew. It should allow you get off to a running start.
If you are having trouble putting together your guidance section, ocherdraco put together a list of questions a few years ago to help you focus. You don't have to answer all (or any of) the questions, but this is a good place to start if you are stumped by the Guidance section.
We will not share, abuse, sell, or spindle your email address. The person who draws your name will not get your email address. We will delete all emails sent and received at the end of the sq season.
The Rules
If you failed to send your giftee a gift last year (without working it out with us), don't even bother signing up. You've been banned from this year's festivities. If you do try to sign up, your name will be yoinked from the swap. You can try again next year, but two strikes and you will be out. If you don't send a gift this year, you will be banned next year. You will get only one second chance. If you sign up anyway, you will be removed from the list and you will hear from me.
If you find that you can't participate after signing up but before the draw, after all, then send me a MeMail or an email to the address below. I'll remove your entry. If you find that you can't participate after all after the draw, please send an email to that same gmail account as soon as possible so we can contact the folks who drew you and whom you drew and redirect or reassign as appropriate.
If you do not think you can mail a gift in a reasonable amount of time, please do not participate. It's not OK to plan now on finding and sending your gift after your life calms down in January or late December or on Valentines Day.
Hey! You have a question!
We're happy to serve as anonymizing middlemen if you have a question for your recipient, to send messages to your recipient on your behalf, to find out if a package has been sent or has been received. Send us an email at our gmail address (see below), and we'll see what we can find out for you.
A Note About the Swap Groups
If we do not get enough people to do a swap in a group, I will contact folks in the underpopulated swap groups to see what can be done before the swap.
A Note about International Swapping
We STRONGLY recommend mailing as early as possible if you are going to send anything internationally, especially if the US is involved. Customs holds up lots of packages for varying amounts of time (with some, it seems forever.) If you sign up for the International/Anywhere option, please be aware that shipping times may stretch out longer than you'd prefer.
Signing up for the international swap does not guarantee that you will get a gift from and/or will send a gift to someone outside of the country in which you live (particularly if you live in the USA).
Communicating with us
Unless you need to contact us specifically about one of the organizers, please use our gmail account secretquonsarswap. This will help us make sure we don't overlook anything and can be as efficient as possible.
Who we are
This year, the quonczars are arcticseal, phunniemee, and me. If you drew one of our names and need to contact us anonymously about your quonsee, contact one of the other quonczars to get your answers.
*Send Date
We have set the send by date to be December 1. This is one day LESS than last year. We do expect folks to have their gifts in the mail or on their way to the post office at the very beginning of December. This is not a free pass to mailing it out the next weekend.
The signup link
Sign Up Here.
secret quonsar (wiki) is the MeFi holiday-adjacent gift swap. Each participant sends a gift to an awesome Mefite; each participant receives a gift from an awesome Mefite. Awesomeness and gifts abound.
Signing Up
There will be a link at the end of this post. Follow it. We need an actual MeFi username, an email address you check, your name & mailing address, and some good guidance for the person who draws your name. (If you are strongly google-averse, you may sign up with a MeFi sockpuppet name and throwaway account. You must agree to check the account until the gift you sent arrives and you receive your gift, and to send me via MeMail your primary MeFi handle AND the sockpuppet handle which I will pass onto the person who draws your name via MeMail.)
You will get a confirmation email within 36 hours of signing up that will show you the information you submitted. Please check your spam/junk mail folder. If you do not get this confirmation within 48 hours, send me a memail. If you have not gotten a confirmation email, you may not be signed up or you entered the wrong email address. We can fix that.
Fun Fact: Every year, several people accidentally typo their own email addresses, which leads to confusion and consternation, and sometimes no gift for someone until late in the season.
You will get your draw via email. It will contain key information about the person you will be gifting: MeFi username, a real world name, mailing address, and hopefully helpful guidance from the person you drew. It should allow you get off to a running start.
If you are having trouble putting together your guidance section, ocherdraco put together a list of questions a few years ago to help you focus. You don't have to answer all (or any of) the questions, but this is a good place to start if you are stumped by the Guidance section.
We will not share, abuse, sell, or spindle your email address. The person who draws your name will not get your email address. We will delete all emails sent and received at the end of the sq season.
The Rules
If you failed to send your giftee a gift last year (without working it out with us), don't even bother signing up. You've been banned from this year's festivities. If you do try to sign up, your name will be yoinked from the swap. You can try again next year, but two strikes and you will be out. If you don't send a gift this year, you will be banned next year. You will get only one second chance. If you sign up anyway, you will be removed from the list and you will hear from me.
If you find that you can't participate after signing up but before the draw, after all, then send me a MeMail or an email to the address below. I'll remove your entry. If you find that you can't participate after all after the draw, please send an email to that same gmail account as soon as possible so we can contact the folks who drew you and whom you drew and redirect or reassign as appropriate.
If you do not think you can mail a gift in a reasonable amount of time, please do not participate. It's not OK to plan now on finding and sending your gift after your life calms down in January or late December or on Valentines Day.
Hey! You have a question!
We're happy to serve as anonymizing middlemen if you have a question for your recipient, to send messages to your recipient on your behalf, to find out if a package has been sent or has been received. Send us an email at our gmail address (see below), and we'll see what we can find out for you.
A Note About the Swap Groups
If we do not get enough people to do a swap in a group, I will contact folks in the underpopulated swap groups to see what can be done before the swap.
A Note about International Swapping
We STRONGLY recommend mailing as early as possible if you are going to send anything internationally, especially if the US is involved. Customs holds up lots of packages for varying amounts of time (with some, it seems forever.) If you sign up for the International/Anywhere option, please be aware that shipping times may stretch out longer than you'd prefer.
Signing up for the international swap does not guarantee that you will get a gift from and/or will send a gift to someone outside of the country in which you live (particularly if you live in the USA).
Communicating with us
Unless you need to contact us specifically about one of the organizers, please use our gmail account secretquonsarswap. This will help us make sure we don't overlook anything and can be as efficient as possible.
Who we are
This year, the quonczars are arcticseal, phunniemee, and me. If you drew one of our names and need to contact us anonymously about your quonsee, contact one of the other quonczars to get your answers.
*Send Date
We have set the send by date to be December 1. This is one day LESS than last year. We do expect folks to have their gifts in the mail or on their way to the post office at the very beginning of December. This is not a free pass to mailing it out the next weekend.
The signup link
Sign Up Here.
OK. People who signed up should have gotten an email from us announcing signups are open. We've only gotten one bounced email so far (typo in the email address), so that's good. Although the substance of the messages is the same, we did change subject lines and some of the text in each batch of notifications so that Google wouldn't look at 625+ emails going out in a 15 minute timeframe with the same exact content and assume us to be Spammers.
Also, for about 150 of you, there was carnage in the signature section (multiple signatures, some outdated). I'm just going to blame those jealous marmosets.
posted by julen at 10:49 PM on October 31, 2017 [1 favorite]
Also, for about 150 of you, there was carnage in the signature section (multiple signatures, some outdated). I'm just going to blame those jealous marmosets.
posted by julen at 10:49 PM on October 31, 2017 [1 favorite]
YES! I woke up to the email and even though it’s only 6AM I can already say that this is a GREAT day!!
posted by easternblot at 11:06 PM on October 31, 2017
posted by easternblot at 11:06 PM on October 31, 2017
Yaaaaaay!
posted by SisterHavana at 11:19 PM on October 31, 2017
posted by SisterHavana at 11:19 PM on October 31, 2017
First quonsar for me, and I'm so excited!
posted by lesser weasel at 11:30 PM on October 31, 2017 [3 favorites]
posted by lesser weasel at 11:30 PM on October 31, 2017 [3 favorites]
Oof. I have a pre-op appointment Nov. 15th for actual-date-to-be-determined major surgery and don’t know if I’d be able to get my gift out amidst all the associated hubaloo. Though I reaaaally want to sign up again this year, I shall be responsible, wish you all a Merry Quonmas, and live vicariously through the thank you thread.
posted by romakimmy at 12:17 AM on November 1, 2017
posted by romakimmy at 12:17 AM on November 1, 2017
Popping my quonsar cherry.
posted by MT at 12:59 AM on November 1, 2017 [3 favorites]
posted by MT at 12:59 AM on November 1, 2017 [3 favorites]
Stupid question: so I want to sign up but only to send in case someone didn’t get a gift. Is there a separate signup for that?
posted by isauteikisa at 1:25 AM on November 1, 2017
posted by isauteikisa at 1:25 AM on November 1, 2017
Even though everyone will be drawing my name this year, there is no collusion!
posted by maxwelton at 1:33 AM on November 1, 2017 [8 favorites]
posted by maxwelton at 1:33 AM on November 1, 2017 [8 favorites]
How come when I tried to add a photo--to personalize my hardly-demanding-at-all guidance, as one does--the signup form rejected it, saying I was "too nude"? Maybe the photo angle hid the fact I was wearing socks?
(If you're looking for UI feedback, I thought the "ew" in 96-point-type on the error dialog was pretty judgmental.)
posted by maxwelton at 1:58 AM on November 1, 2017 [3 favorites]
(If you're looking for UI feedback, I thought the "ew" in 96-point-type on the error dialog was pretty judgmental.)
posted by maxwelton at 1:58 AM on November 1, 2017 [3 favorites]
julen: If you are strongly google-averse, you may sign up with a MeFi sockpuppet name and throwaway account.
I am strongly google-averse and I'm very happy about this.
posted by Too-Ticky at 2:01 AM on November 1, 2017 [3 favorites]
I am strongly google-averse and I'm very happy about this.
posted by Too-Ticky at 2:01 AM on November 1, 2017 [3 favorites]
Siiiiiiiigned up!
posted by Mister Moofoo at 3:07 AM on November 1, 2017
posted by Mister Moofoo at 3:07 AM on November 1, 2017
Signed up! Hooray, it is the most Quonsary time of the yeeeeaaarr! *dons Quonsar hat and commemorative hamster t-shirt*
posted by halcyonday at 3:33 AM on November 1, 2017
posted by halcyonday at 3:33 AM on November 1, 2017
Done! Excited. I've received (and given!) fun gifts from all over the world and I can't wait for this year's edition.
posted by mdonley at 4:10 AM on November 1, 2017
posted by mdonley at 4:10 AM on November 1, 2017
Annual reminder that you can search your email for "subject:secret quonsar swap: Please check the information you submitted" to find the text of the guidance you sent out last year for copypasting.
posted by Rock Steady at 4:28 AM on November 1, 2017 [12 favorites]
posted by Rock Steady at 4:28 AM on November 1, 2017 [12 favorites]
It's the most wonderful time of the year! Good luck for the surgery romakimmy, you made my quonsmas last year!
posted by ellieBOA at 5:37 AM on November 1, 2017 [1 favorite]
posted by ellieBOA at 5:37 AM on November 1, 2017 [1 favorite]
IT'S THE MOST QUONSICAL TIME OF THE YEAR!
posted by deezil at 5:58 AM on November 1, 2017 [1 favorite]
posted by deezil at 5:58 AM on November 1, 2017 [1 favorite]
EEEEEEE
posted by brilliantine at 6:03 AM on November 1, 2017
posted by brilliantine at 6:03 AM on November 1, 2017
*kermit flail*
posted by RhysPenbras at 6:04 AM on November 1, 2017 [3 favorites]
posted by RhysPenbras at 6:04 AM on November 1, 2017 [3 favorites]
Stupid question: so I want to sign up but only to send in case someone didn’t get a gift. Is there a separate signup for that?
Ah! A second chancer volunteer. Yay!
If you aren't signing up for the main swap, too, you can send us an email at our gmail account, secretquonsarswap, volunteering to be a second chancer. Let us know where you live (state/province/country) and what your geographical restrictions are (e.g. USA only or Canada only or Europe only or Anywhere/International, etc), and we'll add you to the list.
posted by julen at 6:17 AM on November 1, 2017 [3 favorites]
Ah! A second chancer volunteer. Yay!
If you aren't signing up for the main swap, too, you can send us an email at our gmail account, secretquonsarswap, volunteering to be a second chancer. Let us know where you live (state/province/country) and what your geographical restrictions are (e.g. USA only or Canada only or Europe only or Anywhere/International, etc), and we'll add you to the list.
posted by julen at 6:17 AM on November 1, 2017 [3 favorites]
Woot woot I'm in!
posted by ThePinkSuperhero at 6:19 AM on November 1, 2017
posted by ThePinkSuperhero at 6:19 AM on November 1, 2017
Signed up. I'm a little sad the deadline is the 1st as our awesome local Christmas Craft Fair is the 4th, but I'll make do.
posted by PearlRose at 6:19 AM on November 1, 2017
posted by PearlRose at 6:19 AM on November 1, 2017
Signed up! This is one of my favorite things all year.
posted by bondcliff at 6:21 AM on November 1, 2017
posted by bondcliff at 6:21 AM on November 1, 2017
Hooray!! I'm in!
posted by kimberussell at 6:21 AM on November 1, 2017
posted by kimberussell at 6:21 AM on November 1, 2017
So excited! First quonsmas celebration for me. Can't wait to find out who my giftee will be - woooooo!
posted by doornoise at 6:22 AM on November 1, 2017
posted by doornoise at 6:22 AM on November 1, 2017
Yay! A huge thank you to julen, arcticseal, and phunniemee for organizing! It's a massive effort and tremendously appreciated.
posted by jedicus at 6:27 AM on November 1, 2017 [5 favorites]
posted by jedicus at 6:27 AM on November 1, 2017 [5 favorites]
Woooot, this is the first year I actually remembered to sign up for the signup reminder, which enabled me to remember to sign up for the actual thing. Yay!
posted by lydhre at 6:29 AM on November 1, 2017 [1 favorite]
posted by lydhre at 6:29 AM on November 1, 2017 [1 favorite]
Huzzah! I did it last year for the first time and it was great! I am also available to be a second-chancer for the USA only group.
posted by skycrashesdown at 6:39 AM on November 1, 2017
posted by skycrashesdown at 6:39 AM on November 1, 2017
MY FAVORITE TIME OF YEAR!!! Thank you, QuonsElves, for making this happen!!
posted by bibliogrrl at 6:46 AM on November 1, 2017
posted by bibliogrrl at 6:46 AM on November 1, 2017
Quiet though I've been over the years (and this year especially, which has been extremely hectic for a variety of reasons), I so look forward to this every season—and I swear that just reading the Thank You thread brings me at least as much joy as do my individual gifts given and received.
If any year needs some Quonsmas cheer, it's frakking 2017. Let's do this thing!
posted by cellar door at 6:46 AM on November 1, 2017 [10 favorites]
If any year needs some Quonsmas cheer, it's frakking 2017. Let's do this thing!
posted by cellar door at 6:46 AM on November 1, 2017 [10 favorites]
I love you people.
And this event.
Seriously, thank all of y'all.
posted by DigDoug at 6:49 AM on November 1, 2017
And this event.
Seriously, thank all of y'all.
posted by DigDoug at 6:49 AM on November 1, 2017
Woot! Signed up!
posted by Stynxno at 6:53 AM on November 1, 2017 [1 favorite]
posted by Stynxno at 6:53 AM on November 1, 2017 [1 favorite]
Yay! Signed up - and happy to serve as a Second Chancer again.
posted by RedOrGreen at 7:14 AM on November 1, 2017
posted by RedOrGreen at 7:14 AM on November 1, 2017
Wow. I have been on this site for 12 years and never before quonsared. How is that possible? No matter. It ends now.
posted by veggieboy at 7:17 AM on November 1, 2017 [6 favorites]
posted by veggieboy at 7:17 AM on November 1, 2017 [6 favorites]
It's been a terrible horrible no good very bad half-week so far, so I was SO happy to see the quonczars in my inbox this morning. Signed up for the main swap and please put me down as a second chancer!
posted by headnsouth at 7:20 AM on November 1, 2017 [2 favorites]
posted by headnsouth at 7:20 AM on November 1, 2017 [2 favorites]
Woo! Merry Quonsmas time! And boy do I need it this year.
posted by holborne at 7:28 AM on November 1, 2017
posted by holborne at 7:28 AM on November 1, 2017
It's the most quonderful time of the year! I am so excited for another Quonsmas swap.
posted by capricorn at 7:42 AM on November 1, 2017 [1 favorite]
posted by capricorn at 7:42 AM on November 1, 2017 [1 favorite]
I finally did this for the first time last year and it was so fun -- definitely recommend participating!
posted by trillian at 7:53 AM on November 1, 2017
posted by trillian at 7:53 AM on November 1, 2017
Yaaaaaay! Quonsmas!
Will this year be the year that I finally get a quonsee who uses my guidance questionnaire? (Seriously, I know a lot of people use it, including me, but I haven’t yet had a quonsee of my own who did!)
I’m super excited, as per usual.
posted by ocherdraco at 7:56 AM on November 1, 2017 [7 favorites]
Will this year be the year that I finally get a quonsee who uses my guidance questionnaire? (Seriously, I know a lot of people use it, including me, but I haven’t yet had a quonsee of my own who did!)
I’m super excited, as per usual.
posted by ocherdraco at 7:56 AM on November 1, 2017 [7 favorites]
After years of getting really amazingly super-targeted-to-me-and-only-me gifts and being blown away by you creepers my SQs' attention to detail, my gift guidance this year was... "this is free-form, go nuts."
posted by phunniemee at 8:00 AM on November 1, 2017 [7 favorites]
posted by phunniemee at 8:00 AM on November 1, 2017 [7 favorites]
Happy to be among Quonsfolk for the first time. Yay!
posted by MonkeyToes at 8:21 AM on November 1, 2017 [1 favorite]
posted by MonkeyToes at 8:21 AM on November 1, 2017 [1 favorite]
I'm excited! All year long I was taking mental note of various local goodies that would make particularly good quonsar gifts - and now I've forgotten all of them. Gah.
posted by mosst at 9:07 AM on November 1, 2017 [1 favorite]
posted by mosst at 9:07 AM on November 1, 2017 [1 favorite]
First timer! After years of pestering on my part, my family finally went to “no gifts, just time together!” but I find that I miss giving gifts!
posted by CMcG at 9:15 AM on November 1, 2017 [1 favorite]
posted by CMcG at 9:15 AM on November 1, 2017 [1 favorite]
Yay! Thanks for organizing this. :) It's the most quonsieeest tiiiime.. of the yearrrr.
posted by introp at 9:44 AM on November 1, 2017
posted by introp at 9:44 AM on November 1, 2017
First time! I am excite!
posted by merriment at 9:49 AM on November 1, 2017 [2 favorites]
posted by merriment at 9:49 AM on November 1, 2017 [2 favorites]
Hooray! Signed up.
posted by Secretariat at 10:00 AM on November 1, 2017
posted by Secretariat at 10:00 AM on November 1, 2017
I know this is probably a dumb question, but is the email that begins with "Thanks for filling out Secret Quonsar 2017 - Sign Up, Here's what we got from you:" the actual confirmation email? Or is there a separate email that will say "Hey, you're a confirmed participant in Secret Quonsar 2017!"?
Thus begins the over-analyzing and overthinking that is an essential part of the Quonsar season...
Also, I AM SO EXCITED FOR THIS!
posted by MsVader at 10:14 AM on November 1, 2017 [1 favorite]
Thus begins the over-analyzing and overthinking that is an essential part of the Quonsar season...
Also, I AM SO EXCITED FOR THIS!
posted by MsVader at 10:14 AM on November 1, 2017 [1 favorite]
Oh, I have a question too! When is it customary to reveal your identity in the quonsing process? I've seen:
1) on the package you send to your quonsee
2) after your quonsee thanks you in the MeTa thread for thank yous
3) NEVER EVER
What do other folks prefer?
posted by capricorn at 10:28 AM on November 1, 2017
1) on the package you send to your quonsee
2) after your quonsee thanks you in the MeTa thread for thank yous
3) NEVER EVER
What do other folks prefer?
posted by capricorn at 10:28 AM on November 1, 2017
WOO HOO! If there was ever a year that needs the magic of Quonsmas, it's this year!! I'll be signing up later today.
To anyone who may be on the fence about participating for the first time--if you'll have the time to get a package in the mail by the deadline, then take the plunge and do it! Are you primarily a lurker? Doesn't matter at all--PLEASE JOIN US!
(Also--I'll be happy to be a second-chancer this year!)
posted by bookmammal at 10:28 AM on November 1, 2017 [3 favorites]
To anyone who may be on the fence about participating for the first time--if you'll have the time to get a package in the mail by the deadline, then take the plunge and do it! Are you primarily a lurker? Doesn't matter at all--PLEASE JOIN US!
(Also--I'll be happy to be a second-chancer this year!)
posted by bookmammal at 10:28 AM on November 1, 2017 [3 favorites]
Oh, I have a question too! When is it customary to reveal your identity in the quonsing process? I've seen:
1) on the package you send to your quonsee
2) after your quonsee thanks you in the MeTa thread for thank yous
3) NEVER EVER
What do other folks prefer?
I feel like all three are perfectly acceptable, though in 4 or 5 years of this, I've always revealed myself with the gift, as have my quonsars, IIRC. Personally, I feel like that is the best, most community-minded, warm-fuzzy approach, but I can see the appeal of all three. I think in the true spirit of Candlenights, you are OK doing whatever you personally prefer.
posted by Rock Steady at 10:40 AM on November 1, 2017 [1 favorite]
1) on the package you send to your quonsee
2) after your quonsee thanks you in the MeTa thread for thank yous
3) NEVER EVER
What do other folks prefer?
I feel like all three are perfectly acceptable, though in 4 or 5 years of this, I've always revealed myself with the gift, as have my quonsars, IIRC. Personally, I feel like that is the best, most community-minded, warm-fuzzy approach, but I can see the appeal of all three. I think in the true spirit of Candlenights, you are OK doing whatever you personally prefer.
posted by Rock Steady at 10:40 AM on November 1, 2017 [1 favorite]
I think generally people reveal themselves in the packaging on the gift itself, but you don't have to. I've gotten the sense that most people tend to prefer finding out who sent it when they open the package, but of course most does not mean all.
Ultimately do what feels right for you, but if you're conflicted or can't decide, go ahead and sign the card :)
posted by phunniemee at 10:55 AM on November 1, 2017 [2 favorites]
Ultimately do what feels right for you, but if you're conflicted or can't decide, go ahead and sign the card :)
posted by phunniemee at 10:55 AM on November 1, 2017 [2 favorites]
Another Secret Quonsar virgin here. I'm really looking forward to taking part.
posted by essexjan at 10:58 AM on November 1, 2017 [1 favorite]
posted by essexjan at 10:58 AM on November 1, 2017 [1 favorite]
1) on the package you send to your quonsee
2) after your quonsee thanks you in the MeTa thread for thank yous
3) NEVER EVER
I've gotten into the habit of writing the address and return address as FIRSTNAME "USERNAME" LASTNAME. I kind of like the idea of someone getting a package in the mail and immediately knowing it's their Secret Quonsar gift.
I received a gift from a second chancer one year and the person didn't reveal who they were. While I respect their right to do so, it was very frustrating to not be able to personally thank them or to think "that person did me a solid!" every time I see their username on MeFi.
So instead every time the subject comes up I say something like "whoever gave me those barbecue sauces from Virginia that one time, YOU FUCKING ROCK."
posted by bondcliff at 11:45 AM on November 1, 2017 [7 favorites]
2) after your quonsee thanks you in the MeTa thread for thank yous
3) NEVER EVER
I've gotten into the habit of writing the address and return address as FIRSTNAME "USERNAME" LASTNAME. I kind of like the idea of someone getting a package in the mail and immediately knowing it's their Secret Quonsar gift.
I received a gift from a second chancer one year and the person didn't reveal who they were. While I respect their right to do so, it was very frustrating to not be able to personally thank them or to think "that person did me a solid!" every time I see their username on MeFi.
So instead every time the subject comes up I say something like "whoever gave me those barbecue sauces from Virginia that one time, YOU FUCKING ROCK."
posted by bondcliff at 11:45 AM on November 1, 2017 [7 favorites]
Yayyyyy!
Please add me as a second chancer, and thank all of you for running this!
posted by lepus at 11:55 AM on November 1, 2017
Please add me as a second chancer, and thank all of you for running this!
posted by lepus at 11:55 AM on November 1, 2017
Didn't get an email though I've participated before, but no matter. I am in again!
posted by miratime at 11:58 AM on November 1, 2017
posted by miratime at 11:58 AM on November 1, 2017
I am...not a natural gift giver. However I do have a few things in mind already, pending on the requests of the quansee. Wooooooooooooo
posted by Hermeowne Grangepurr at 12:48 PM on November 1, 2017
posted by Hermeowne Grangepurr at 12:48 PM on November 1, 2017
Any news regarding the Quonsmas-adjacent Cookie Swap? I know it usually gets its own thread, I'm just worried about missing it. Somebody nudge me when it happens?
posted by Soliloquy at 12:59 PM on November 1, 2017 [2 favorites]
posted by Soliloquy at 12:59 PM on November 1, 2017 [2 favorites]
I wasn't able to participate last year... I think... my memory is shot. But here I am again. ^_^ I love quonsmas.
posted by patheral at 1:08 PM on November 1, 2017
posted by patheral at 1:08 PM on November 1, 2017
I have been.looking forward to this for months.
2017 has been ... Stressful. I am going to retaliate by spreading quonsar joy.
posted by Faintdreams at 1:13 PM on November 1, 2017 [2 favorites]
2017 has been ... Stressful. I am going to retaliate by spreading quonsar joy.
posted by Faintdreams at 1:13 PM on November 1, 2017 [2 favorites]
I haven't filled out my form yet but boy-oh-boy was I happy to see that email.
Thanks elves!
posted by Room 641-A at 1:14 PM on November 1, 2017
Thanks elves!
posted by Room 641-A at 1:14 PM on November 1, 2017
Hooray! Quonsing once more...
posted by thomas j wise at 2:08 PM on November 1, 2017
posted by thomas j wise at 2:08 PM on November 1, 2017
I've been waiting for this day, yay! I had such wonderful gift-givers last year and am super eager to participate again this year.
posted by jillithd at 2:34 PM on November 1, 2017
posted by jillithd at 2:34 PM on November 1, 2017
I know this is probably a dumb question, but is the email that begins with "Thanks for filling out Secret Quonsar 2017 - Sign Up, Here's what we got from you:" the actual confirmation email? Or is there a separate email that will say "Hey, you're a confirmed participant in Secret Quonsar 2017!"?
Yes - that's this year's confirmation message. Google is automatically sending the confirmations this year. On the plus side, I don't spend the first 3 days sending out hundreds of confirmations. On the negative side, I didn't see a way to customize it (The google form UI update is not optimal, so I could have missed it!), but will look for a way for next year.
Second Chancing:
If you've volunteered to be a second chancer here, I've added you to the list and you will hear from us in December!
When to Reveal Yourself
It is 100% up to you. - On the package, in the thank you thread, via memail or email, never -- they are all acceptable options. There are UNacceptable options: Do not show up on someone's doorstep. Do not call them at work and ask "Do you know who this is?" Do not entrust your secret to the marmosets because they will get sidetracked along the way and never actually reveal your identity.
On getting a reminder email each year
We only send emails to people who have signed up for the sq signups are open notification list. You can sign up here to be notified next (and subsequent) year(s):
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSesRJYOylj0JwWrmTYXAJT-DzmQ188pthQg4j5O6zlLaZBRLw/viewform
posted by julen at 2:41 PM on November 1, 2017 [3 favorites]
Yes - that's this year's confirmation message. Google is automatically sending the confirmations this year. On the plus side, I don't spend the first 3 days sending out hundreds of confirmations. On the negative side, I didn't see a way to customize it (The google form UI update is not optimal, so I could have missed it!), but will look for a way for next year.
Second Chancing:
If you've volunteered to be a second chancer here, I've added you to the list and you will hear from us in December!
When to Reveal Yourself
It is 100% up to you. - On the package, in the thank you thread, via memail or email, never -- they are all acceptable options. There are UNacceptable options: Do not show up on someone's doorstep. Do not call them at work and ask "Do you know who this is?" Do not entrust your secret to the marmosets because they will get sidetracked along the way and never actually reveal your identity.
On getting a reminder email each year
We only send emails to people who have signed up for the sq signups are open notification list. You can sign up here to be notified next (and subsequent) year(s):
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSesRJYOylj0JwWrmTYXAJT-DzmQ188pthQg4j5O6zlLaZBRLw/viewform
posted by julen at 2:41 PM on November 1, 2017 [3 favorites]
Ya'll I am excited to see what I get, but MORE excited to see what I can give. Because my kiddo and all the other family kiddos are at the "Video games or cash only" stage and my husband doesn't really need much and all the adults have largely given up Christmas gifts in my family.
So this is almost my one chance to buy something fun that I KNOW someone might really enjoy and look forward to.
posted by emjaybee at 2:44 PM on November 1, 2017 [4 favorites]
So this is almost my one chance to buy something fun that I KNOW someone might really enjoy and look forward to.
posted by emjaybee at 2:44 PM on November 1, 2017 [4 favorites]
YEAH - I totally needed this good news today!!! I also love the idea of Quonsmas music - I usually sing "Here we come a-Quonsmasing" to myself when I first get the sign up email.
posted by amelliferae at 3:07 PM on November 1, 2017
posted by amelliferae at 3:07 PM on November 1, 2017
So very excited about this!
posted by Twicketface at 3:20 PM on November 1, 2017
posted by Twicketface at 3:20 PM on November 1, 2017
Can you quonse and second chance? If so I would like to.
posted by corb at 3:56 PM on November 1, 2017 [1 favorite]
posted by corb at 3:56 PM on November 1, 2017 [1 favorite]
Just signed up for my 3rd Quonsmas— This has become one of my favorite parts of the holiday season! I’m already anticipating reading the wonderful “Thank you” thread that’s always packed with so much joy and gratitude and all-around good vibes and it goes on for days and days...We need that this year.
(What? You haven’t signed up yet? Come on—do it! It’s SO MUCH FUN!)
posted by bookmammal at 4:58 PM on November 1, 2017 [1 favorite]
(What? You haven’t signed up yet? Come on—do it! It’s SO MUCH FUN!)
posted by bookmammal at 4:58 PM on November 1, 2017 [1 favorite]
Can you quonse and second chance? If so I would like to.
Yes, you can! I'll add you to the list.
posted by julen at 5:04 PM on November 1, 2017
Yes, you can! I'll add you to the list.
posted by julen at 5:04 PM on November 1, 2017
julen, I would also both quonse and second-chance.
posted by limeonaire at 5:28 PM on November 1, 2017
posted by limeonaire at 5:28 PM on November 1, 2017
Oh, yay! After missing the boat for the past few years, I'm glad to be back in the Quonsmas spirit.
posted by Sublimity at 7:25 PM on November 1, 2017
posted by Sublimity at 7:25 PM on November 1, 2017
Well, I'm a first-timer at this here Quonsmas thingy, but I figured if I'm going to join this community, do it all (or most) of the way. I got my confirmation email and am waiting for my swapee (but I had an edit to my guidelines so it'll be later. Thanks to the folks that put this together.
posted by MovableBookLady at 7:53 PM on November 1, 2017 [4 favorites]
posted by MovableBookLady at 7:53 PM on November 1, 2017 [4 favorites]
I've added you, too Limeonaire. Whee.
People - please take a moment to review the confirmation sent to you by google forms. Make sure you've entered a MeFi handle and the correct region group. I'm happy to make changes for you if you find errors or things you think you could do better.
In the first 24 hours, 190 people have signed up. It's kind of thrilling to see the wide array of folks who have signed up - first timers and old hands, students and workers and gadabouts and retirees, folks from around the world, folks who urge you to "go nuts" and folks who most politely encourage you to avoid nuts for them altogether. Also, people are delightful.
I should have called this out earlier, but I'm giving the Australia/New Zealand group another shot this year, in the hopes 3 or more folks from that area sign up. If we don't hit that by next Wednesday, I'll contact the folks who did sign up and figure out an alternate plan.
posted by julen at 10:07 PM on November 1, 2017 [8 favorites]
People - please take a moment to review the confirmation sent to you by google forms. Make sure you've entered a MeFi handle and the correct region group. I'm happy to make changes for you if you find errors or things you think you could do better.
In the first 24 hours, 190 people have signed up. It's kind of thrilling to see the wide array of folks who have signed up - first timers and old hands, students and workers and gadabouts and retirees, folks from around the world, folks who urge you to "go nuts" and folks who most politely encourage you to avoid nuts for them altogether. Also, people are delightful.
I should have called this out earlier, but I'm giving the Australia/New Zealand group another shot this year, in the hopes 3 or more folks from that area sign up. If we don't hit that by next Wednesday, I'll contact the folks who did sign up and figure out an alternate plan.
posted by julen at 10:07 PM on November 1, 2017 [8 favorites]
Signed up and eagerly awaiting further developments.
Please add me to Canadian 2nd chancers' list.
posted by angiep at 9:24 AM on November 2, 2017
Please add me to Canadian 2nd chancers' list.
posted by angiep at 9:24 AM on November 2, 2017
Secret Quonsar really is The Best of the Web. And the SQ-elves are the Bestest of the Best. <3
posted by angiep at 9:41 AM on November 2, 2017 [3 favorites]
posted by angiep at 9:41 AM on November 2, 2017 [3 favorites]
I skipped last year -- happy to be participating again this year! And I'm glad to be a second-chancer, too.
posted by Annabelle74 at 12:41 PM on November 2, 2017
posted by Annabelle74 at 12:41 PM on November 2, 2017
Signed up! My first quonsar :)
posted by cp311 at 1:26 PM on November 2, 2017 [3 favorites]
posted by cp311 at 1:26 PM on November 2, 2017 [3 favorites]
Yay! Merry Quonsmas, everybody!
posted by Rush-That-Speaks at 3:46 PM on November 2, 2017
posted by Rush-That-Speaks at 3:46 PM on November 2, 2017
Signed up for the third time. I hope I do a good job quonsing this year!
posted by zorseshoes at 4:09 PM on November 2, 2017 [1 favorite]
posted by zorseshoes at 4:09 PM on November 2, 2017 [1 favorite]
Yippee! My favorite thing!
posted by chaoticgood at 4:49 PM on November 2, 2017
posted by chaoticgood at 4:49 PM on November 2, 2017
I'm up for second-chancing also - please add me to the list
posted by darsh at 6:42 PM on November 2, 2017
posted by darsh at 6:42 PM on November 2, 2017
I've been lurking more than not lately, but I just had to come out of stealth mode to say:
I love this.
I am at this very moment, sitting next to gifts from 3 different years (2 awesome books, and one awesome candle). PLUS, not 1 hour ago I used another gift (an awesome cutting board) that I got from my second chance giver (Munching Langolier, who is so great I have to mention them by name every time this comes up) during a particularly rough stretch.
But, mostly I love the thought that I'm doing something that makes someone's life just a little better. That kind of connection can be a tough feeling to come by sometimes.
(oh and hey, if you get a tracking number when you send off your package and share it with whoever you got the gift for, it can relieve quite a bit of "did they send it?" stress).
posted by Gygesringtone at 9:33 PM on November 2, 2017 [7 favorites]
I love this.
I am at this very moment, sitting next to gifts from 3 different years (2 awesome books, and one awesome candle). PLUS, not 1 hour ago I used another gift (an awesome cutting board) that I got from my second chance giver (Munching Langolier, who is so great I have to mention them by name every time this comes up) during a particularly rough stretch.
But, mostly I love the thought that I'm doing something that makes someone's life just a little better. That kind of connection can be a tough feeling to come by sometimes.
(oh and hey, if you get a tracking number when you send off your package and share it with whoever you got the gift for, it can relieve quite a bit of "did they send it?" stress).
posted by Gygesringtone at 9:33 PM on November 2, 2017 [7 favorites]
I have 2 empty boxes ready and waiting!
posted by Juso No Thankyou at 11:04 PM on November 2, 2017
posted by Juso No Thankyou at 11:04 PM on November 2, 2017
Awesome! I've added the latest second chance volunteers to our list.
posted by julen at 5:29 AM on November 3, 2017
posted by julen at 5:29 AM on November 3, 2017
Signed up!!
I have mixed feelings about enjoying this more than any other holiday gift exchange, including with my own wonderful family :/ But, I do, and I will enjoy the heck out of it!
Please add me to the second-chancers list.
Thanks for your hard work elves!
posted by Fig at 6:55 AM on November 3, 2017 [3 favorites]
I have mixed feelings about enjoying this more than any other holiday gift exchange, including with my own wonderful family :/ But, I do, and I will enjoy the heck out of it!
Please add me to the second-chancers list.
Thanks for your hard work elves!
posted by Fig at 6:55 AM on November 3, 2017 [3 favorites]
Fan for a long time, first time actually doing it. Thank you elves for making this magic happen!
posted by notorious medium at 8:12 AM on November 3, 2017 [1 favorite]
posted by notorious medium at 8:12 AM on November 3, 2017 [1 favorite]
This is not my thing by a long shot, but every year, it's such a joyful event to watch. You folks are great.
posted by crush at 8:13 AM on November 3, 2017 [1 favorite]
posted by crush at 8:13 AM on November 3, 2017 [1 favorite]
Yesssss! I am all signed up now.
Also, I really love getting to be a second chancer and would be happy to do it again this year if you need me.
posted by jessypie at 8:54 AM on November 3, 2017 [1 favorite]
Also, I really love getting to be a second chancer and would be happy to do it again this year if you need me.
posted by jessypie at 8:54 AM on November 3, 2017 [1 favorite]
I would also like to be added to the second chancer list!
posted by mosst at 9:01 AM on November 3, 2017
posted by mosst at 9:01 AM on November 3, 2017
OK. *takes a deep breath* I'm in.
I have watched this from afar for too many years but have been too intimidated by the super-creative gifts that people seem to make and give to actually participate, but dammit, life is too short. Especially in 2017, when most of us feel like we can use any bit of cheer we can get. So here I go - eek!
posted by widdershins at 10:59 AM on November 3, 2017 [8 favorites]
I have watched this from afar for too many years but have been too intimidated by the super-creative gifts that people seem to make and give to actually participate, but dammit, life is too short. Especially in 2017, when most of us feel like we can use any bit of cheer we can get. So here I go - eek!
posted by widdershins at 10:59 AM on November 3, 2017 [8 favorites]
widdershins, other people have said it over and over, and it's really true - just getting a package in the mail from a stranger on the internet is the real gift. As is the joy of reading all of the delightful stories of giving and receiving throughout the season. It truly is the most wonderful time of the year.
posted by MsVader at 11:39 AM on November 3, 2017 [7 favorites]
posted by MsVader at 11:39 AM on November 3, 2017 [7 favorites]
My goals for this week were to sign up for 2018 health insurance, #NaNoWriMo, and Secret Quonsar, things that will keep me healthy, productive, and happy. Done, done, and done! Thanks in advance for all the hard work of the Quonsmas team; the last few years, participating has been a huge delight, and I so appreciate all the effort that goes into it.
posted by The Wrong Kind of Cheese at 11:45 AM on November 3, 2017 [3 favorites]
posted by The Wrong Kind of Cheese at 11:45 AM on November 3, 2017 [3 favorites]
I signed up- it’s my first quosmas and I’m really excited!
posted by Homo neanderthalensis at 10:42 PM on November 3, 2017 [3 favorites]
posted by Homo neanderthalensis at 10:42 PM on November 3, 2017 [3 favorites]
Thank goodness what I wrote last year was emailed to me last year so I just got to go ahead and copy/paste it with little editing.
posted by MCMikeNamara at 9:22 AM on November 4, 2017 [2 favorites]
posted by MCMikeNamara at 9:22 AM on November 4, 2017 [2 favorites]
This is going to be my third year and this really is such a bright spot at the end of the year. Thank you so much to the organizers for doing your thing! xoxo
posted by mostly vowels at 9:34 AM on November 4, 2017
posted by mostly vowels at 9:34 AM on November 4, 2017
This might be my 8th? or 9th? Quonsar, and always one of my favorite things about Metafilter. I remember getting a really amazing card too last year, so I'll be stepping up my game this year.
posted by sweetmarie at 8:43 PM on November 4, 2017 [1 favorite]
posted by sweetmarie at 8:43 PM on November 4, 2017 [1 favorite]
I am in! This is one of my favorite surprises every year.
posted by Nackt at 5:42 AM on November 5, 2017
posted by Nackt at 5:42 AM on November 5, 2017
I'm all official-like!
posted by Room 641-A at 7:17 AM on November 5, 2017
posted by Room 641-A at 7:17 AM on November 5, 2017
Signed up, and would happily be a second chancer if needed.
(I actually had more fun sending out a gift as a second chancer last year than I normally have as a regular quonsar, because it was after the holidays (January or February?) so I had more money and was able to get creative and fun and go a little overboard.)
A+++, would quons again.
posted by firei at 7:24 AM on November 5, 2017 [2 favorites]
(I actually had more fun sending out a gift as a second chancer last year than I normally have as a regular quonsar, because it was after the holidays (January or February?) so I had more money and was able to get creative and fun and go a little overboard.)
A+++, would quons again.
posted by firei at 7:24 AM on November 5, 2017 [2 favorites]
We were out of town when the emails went out, but I just signed up and am so excited! This is one of my favorite things.
posted by needlegrrl at 1:25 PM on November 5, 2017
posted by needlegrrl at 1:25 PM on November 5, 2017
Signed up! I participated for the first time last year, and even though I'm mostly a lurker, quonsmas time makes me so happy to be part of the community.
posted by Paper rabies at 1:47 PM on November 5, 2017 [2 favorites]
posted by Paper rabies at 1:47 PM on November 5, 2017 [2 favorites]
Hooray I signed up! I think this is my third Quonsor though I sadly missed it last year. Glad to be back in the game!
posted by silverstatue at 4:02 PM on November 5, 2017
posted by silverstatue at 4:02 PM on November 5, 2017
I'd like to sign up, but I'm almost moving imminently to an unknown address in the mountains. I definitely won't know my new address until after the 9th -- but I have to be moved in by the week of Thanksgiving, it's not like I might not move!
What do?
posted by Snacks at 6:13 PM on November 5, 2017
What do?
posted by Snacks at 6:13 PM on November 5, 2017
Second-chance-list me, pretty please! I still have quans-related karma to pay back, having received a second-chance gift in my first year as a quonsling.
posted by Dorinda at 9:25 AM on November 6, 2017
posted by Dorinda at 9:25 AM on November 6, 2017
Just signed up for the first time after many years on metafilter! Thank you organizers!
posted by snaw at 9:25 AM on November 6, 2017
posted by snaw at 9:25 AM on November 6, 2017
I'm signed up and overexcited, as usual :)
I will be out of town from Dec 19th to Jan 4th, so don't send me anything that will go bad unless you can ensure it will arrive before I leave please.
posted by congen at 9:40 AM on November 6, 2017
I will be out of town from Dec 19th to Jan 4th, so don't send me anything that will go bad unless you can ensure it will arrive before I leave please.
posted by congen at 9:40 AM on November 6, 2017
Just signed up for my 3rd Quonsmas! This is one of my favorite things around the Winter Holiday season. I will also happily sign up for the cookie swap again if that continues to be a thing!
posted by OntologicalPuppy at 9:42 AM on November 6, 2017
posted by OntologicalPuppy at 9:42 AM on November 6, 2017
Just signed up for my 3rd Quonsmas as well! I am super excited. Hooray!
posted by minsies at 9:49 AM on November 6, 2017 [1 favorite]
posted by minsies at 9:49 AM on November 6, 2017 [1 favorite]
Signed up for my first! I'm so excited you guys!!
posted by Is It Over Yet? at 10:31 AM on November 6, 2017
posted by Is It Over Yet? at 10:31 AM on November 6, 2017
Signed up for my first one! Cannot wait to give and receive.
posted by bookworm4125 at 2:40 PM on November 6, 2017
posted by bookworm4125 at 2:40 PM on November 6, 2017
So excite! Very suspense! Secret Quonsar has been a pin prick of light during a time of darkness.
posted by batbat at 4:22 PM on November 6, 2017 [1 favorite]
posted by batbat at 4:22 PM on November 6, 2017 [1 favorite]
I'd like to sign up, but I'm almost moving imminently to an unknown address in the mountains. I definitely won't know my new address until after the 9th -- but I have to be moved in by the week of Thanksgiving, it's not like I might not move!
I think that is something we can work around, Snacks. If you add a note to your guidance that you are moving and the address will follow, AND you promise to mail us (so we can turn right around and email your quonsar) when you know your new address and actual move in date, I think we can make it work.
posted by julen at 6:07 PM on November 6, 2017 [2 favorites]
I think that is something we can work around, Snacks. If you add a note to your guidance that you are moving and the address will follow, AND you promise to mail us (so we can turn right around and email your quonsar) when you know your new address and actual move in date, I think we can make it work.
posted by julen at 6:07 PM on November 6, 2017 [2 favorites]
In other news....
We have 3 folks signed up for Australia/New Zealand, but it'd be great if we got more folks staying localish.
There's an awesome Holiday Card Exchange being fomented in MeTa.
The countdown to the Gavle Goat going up/getting burned down is at 27 days. It goes up on December 3. Hopefully not in ALL senses of the word. I know I'll be checking in on the webcam frequently.
The Hamsters are getting into fighting form by heading out for chocolate chip pancakes and Bingo over at the hall. I pointed out they got banned last year "for reasons", but they seem to think no one will remember. I've got bail money on hand, just in case.
posted by julen at 6:29 PM on November 6, 2017 [4 favorites]
We have 3 folks signed up for Australia/New Zealand, but it'd be great if we got more folks staying localish.
There's an awesome Holiday Card Exchange being fomented in MeTa.
The countdown to the Gavle Goat going up/getting burned down is at 27 days. It goes up on December 3. Hopefully not in ALL senses of the word. I know I'll be checking in on the webcam frequently.
The Hamsters are getting into fighting form by heading out for chocolate chip pancakes and Bingo over at the hall. I pointed out they got banned last year "for reasons", but they seem to think no one will remember. I've got bail money on hand, just in case.
posted by julen at 6:29 PM on November 6, 2017 [4 favorites]
I think that is something we can work around, Snacks. If you add a note to your guidance that you are moving and the address will follow, AND you promise to mail us (so we can turn right around and email your quonsar) when you know your new address and actual move in date, I think we can make it work.
Thanks, happy to work with that. Signed up, I'll send you guys a followup message with my address when I know what it is!
posted by Snacks at 12:31 PM on November 7, 2017
Thanks, happy to work with that. Signed up, I'll send you guys a followup message with my address when I know what it is!
posted by Snacks at 12:31 PM on November 7, 2017
Hi Everyone!
The email you get from Google Forms IS your confirmation email.
I didn't realize it would print the top instructions in addition to the questions and answers in the email, and I'm still trying to figure out how to configure it so it suppresses that. I apologize for the confusion. If you were confused, you are not alone. SO NOT ALONE.
I'll try to have it fixed in some way for next year!
posted by julen at 3:37 PM on November 7, 2017 [2 favorites]
The email you get from Google Forms IS your confirmation email.
I didn't realize it would print the top instructions in addition to the questions and answers in the email, and I'm still trying to figure out how to configure it so it suppresses that. I apologize for the confusion. If you were confused, you are not alone. SO NOT ALONE.
I'll try to have it fixed in some way for next year!
posted by julen at 3:37 PM on November 7, 2017 [2 favorites]
Secret quonsar is one of my favourite things in the whole world. Please put me down as a second-chance giver if needed, too.
posted by une_heure_pleine at 12:29 PM on November 8, 2017
posted by une_heure_pleine at 12:29 PM on November 8, 2017
Yay - I'm in again! So much fun every dang year. Thanks, Quonsmas elves!
posted by but no cigar at 4:29 PM on November 8, 2017
posted by but no cigar at 4:29 PM on November 8, 2017
24 hours left to sign up!
posted by julen at 9:00 PM on November 8, 2017 [1 favorite]
posted by julen at 9:00 PM on November 8, 2017 [1 favorite]
DYING FROM ANTICIPATION
posted by corb at 9:25 PM on November 8, 2017 [2 favorites]
posted by corb at 9:25 PM on November 8, 2017 [2 favorites]
I feel like I'm not seeing nearly enough excitement from you people. WHERE'S YOUR QUONSAR SPIRIT?
posted by MsVader at 9:04 AM on November 9, 2017 [2 favorites]
posted by MsVader at 9:04 AM on November 9, 2017 [2 favorites]
I have signed up. (Feel free to sign me up as a second chancer). Secret Quonsar is a pretty awesome project every year. I want to thank arcticseal, phunniemee, and julen for undertaking what must be an incredible amount of work.
posted by Multicellular Exothermic at 9:57 AM on November 9, 2017 [2 favorites]
posted by Multicellular Exothermic at 9:57 AM on November 9, 2017 [2 favorites]
I feel like I'm not seeing nearly enough excitement from you people. WHERE'S YOUR QUONSAR SPIRIT?
I am so looking forward to Saturday morning and the annual tradition of scouring my Quonzee's profile and AskMe posts for clues about the sort of shit they're into.
and then just sending them a fruitcake.
posted by bondcliff at 10:20 AM on November 9, 2017 [13 favorites]
I am so looking forward to Saturday morning and the annual tradition of scouring my Quonzee's profile and AskMe posts for clues about the sort of shit they're into.
and then just sending them a fruitcake.
posted by bondcliff at 10:20 AM on November 9, 2017 [13 favorites]
I forgot to specify NO FRUITCAKE!
posted by MsVader at 11:05 AM on November 9, 2017 [2 favorites]
posted by MsVader at 11:05 AM on November 9, 2017 [2 favorites]
First signup for me I’M SO NERVOUS!!!!
posted by epj at 12:43 PM on November 9, 2017 [1 favorite]
posted by epj at 12:43 PM on November 9, 2017 [1 favorite]
so excited about SQ this year. woo!
posted by needlegrrl at 1:54 PM on November 9, 2017
posted by needlegrrl at 1:54 PM on November 9, 2017
bondcliff, if you can make Fruitcake happen, THAT would be a Quonsmas miracle. Fruitcake in the sense of John Waters’ unproduced children’s film—a family Christmas adventure movie that he couldn’t get funding for after the 2008 crash.
“The plot is officially under wraps but is said to center on the title character, a boy named after his favorite dessert. He runs away from home during the holidays after he and his parents are caught shoplifting meat, then meets up with a runaway girl raised by two gay men and searching for her birth mother.” (Via Splitsider; scroll to the bottom for Fruitcake--couldn’t find a separate link.)
also I actually really like fruitcake, go figure
posted by miles per flower at 5:46 PM on November 9, 2017 [4 favorites]
“The plot is officially under wraps but is said to center on the title character, a boy named after his favorite dessert. He runs away from home during the holidays after he and his parents are caught shoplifting meat, then meets up with a runaway girl raised by two gay men and searching for her birth mother.” (Via Splitsider; scroll to the bottom for Fruitcake--couldn’t find a separate link.)
also I actually really like fruitcake, go figure
posted by miles per flower at 5:46 PM on November 9, 2017 [4 favorites]
I just sent out a bunch of emails to folks whose mailing addresses were (possibly) incomplete. Check your mail!
The Hamsters of Randomization would say Hi, but they are currently snoozing, getting ready for their big day.
(Signups close in 1 hour, 35 minutes)
posted by julen at 7:26 PM on November 9, 2017 [1 favorite]
The Hamsters of Randomization would say Hi, but they are currently snoozing, getting ready for their big day.
(Signups close in 1 hour, 35 minutes)
posted by julen at 7:26 PM on November 9, 2017 [1 favorite]
Argh! I forgot all about this and just missed the deadline. *sob*
posted by rakaidan at 10:39 PM on November 9, 2017
posted by rakaidan at 10:39 PM on November 9, 2017
Is there any way to check to see if I signed up? I know I got the email and I know I intended to, but I've been so busy I'm afraid I may have forgotten.
posted by maurice at 12:35 PM on November 10, 2017
posted by maurice at 12:35 PM on November 10, 2017
Is there any way to check to see if I signed up?
Check your email for an email from secretquonsarswap@gmail and see if you got a google forms confirmation. If you've got one from the past month with all your submission info in it, congrats, you did it!
posted by phunniemee at 12:57 PM on November 10, 2017
Check your email for an email from secretquonsarswap@gmail and see if you got a google forms confirmation. If you've got one from the past month with all your submission info in it, congrats, you did it!
posted by phunniemee at 12:57 PM on November 10, 2017
Eeek! I thought today was the deadline for some reason and missed signing up! : (
posted by SisterHavana at 1:12 PM on November 10, 2017
posted by SisterHavana at 1:12 PM on November 10, 2017
I just checked, maurice - you are signed up!
SH, check your memail.
posted by julen at 1:32 PM on November 10, 2017
SH, check your memail.
posted by julen at 1:32 PM on November 10, 2017
Any chance for a late sign up?
posted by nestor_makhno at 1:48 PM on November 10, 2017
posted by nestor_makhno at 1:48 PM on November 10, 2017
OK. I've been memailing folks who mentioned they missed the signup, but I might as well say it out loud. If you get me your name, address, guidance, swap group, and email that you check in the next few hours (preferably before 8 Eastern Time, but I'm flexible), I'll slide you in.
posted by julen at 1:55 PM on November 10, 2017
posted by julen at 1:55 PM on November 10, 2017
Hello everyone.
After fulfilling an absolutely ridiculous "Artists' Rider" from the Hamsters of Randomization, I'm glad to say they are off doing their duty. Before they finish their task (and I'm forced to take them out for pancakes and espresso), I thought I'd take a moment to make some gentle suggestions:
1. If you draw someone in a different country, sending it earlier rather than later is always a winning strategy.
2. When you get your gift, either let us know it arrived (if you aren't opening it immediately) or thank your quonsar right away (or make a note to yourself to thank them). Every year, we have multiple people who are sure they thanked their quonsar and are chagrined to discover they did not.
3. If you find you can't quonsar after all, please let us know ASAP.
posted by julen at 7:54 PM on November 10, 2017 [2 favorites]
After fulfilling an absolutely ridiculous "Artists' Rider" from the Hamsters of Randomization, I'm glad to say they are off doing their duty. Before they finish their task (and I'm forced to take them out for pancakes and espresso), I thought I'd take a moment to make some gentle suggestions:
1. If you draw someone in a different country, sending it earlier rather than later is always a winning strategy.
2. When you get your gift, either let us know it arrived (if you aren't opening it immediately) or thank your quonsar right away (or make a note to yourself to thank them). Every year, we have multiple people who are sure they thanked their quonsar and are chagrined to discover they did not.
3. If you find you can't quonsar after all, please let us know ASAP.
posted by julen at 7:54 PM on November 10, 2017 [2 favorites]
Swap Notifications went out over the past hour.
They are coming from secretquonsarswap@[MyMefiHandle].net - not from gmail.com, so if you don't see it and have to go looking for them, try searching your email/junk folder for "secretquonsarswap".
If you think you signed up and did not get a notification of whom you drew, then please let us know. We'll figure it out.
We'll be happy to start fielding questions later today.
posted by julen at 11:00 PM on November 10, 2017 [7 favorites]
They are coming from secretquonsarswap@[MyMefiHandle].net - not from gmail.com, so if you don't see it and have to go looking for them, try searching your email/junk folder for "secretquonsarswap".
If you think you signed up and did not get a notification of whom you drew, then please let us know. We'll figure it out.
We'll be happy to start fielding questions later today.
posted by julen at 11:00 PM on November 10, 2017 [7 favorites]
Oooh, I could not have been matched up with a better quonsee! I know just what to send them.
*rubs hands gleefully and cackles with pure Quonsmas delight*
posted by Too-Ticky at 4:46 AM on November 11, 2017 [1 favorite]
*rubs hands gleefully and cackles with pure Quonsmas delight*
posted by Too-Ticky at 4:46 AM on November 11, 2017 [1 favorite]
Woohoo I got mine too! Quonsmas Quonsmas Quonsmas!
posted by ThePinkSuperhero at 4:58 AM on November 11, 2017 [1 favorite]
posted by ThePinkSuperhero at 4:58 AM on November 11, 2017 [1 favorite]
Am I the only one who opened the email with anticipation and a giggle? Ah, this is going to be fun!
posted by MonkeyToes at 5:21 AM on November 11, 2017 [6 favorites]
posted by MonkeyToes at 5:21 AM on November 11, 2017 [6 favorites]
I also received mine. Thanks Julen, Quonselves, and hamsters! Truly the quonsiest time of the year!
Also: I have a small contribution made in response to the dearth of Quonsmas music on the market. It's extremely rough, poorly recorded, and I'm getting over a cold so sometimes I sing better than that, oh, and it's also slightly higher than I should be singing, but that's what I've got - FOR NOW.
Lyrics:
It came upon a midnight clear,
That glorious quons of old
From Quonsars shopping for a gift
To send to Quonsee's home!
Quonselves do send the emails quick
and second chancers be near.
The thread of thanks we read and cheer
until we quons next year.
Until we quons next yeeeeeaaaaaaar!
posted by firei at 5:25 AM on November 11, 2017 [2 favorites]
Also: I have a small contribution made in response to the dearth of Quonsmas music on the market. It's extremely rough, poorly recorded, and I'm getting over a cold so sometimes I sing better than that, oh, and it's also slightly higher than I should be singing, but that's what I've got - FOR NOW.
Lyrics:
It came upon a midnight clear,
That glorious quons of old
From Quonsars shopping for a gift
To send to Quonsee's home!
Quonselves do send the emails quick
and second chancers be near.
The thread of thanks we read and cheer
until we quons next year.
Until we quons next yeeeeeaaaaaaar!
posted by firei at 5:25 AM on November 11, 2017 [2 favorites]
Protip: if you want to find your quonsee on mefi, the easiest way is to go directly to their profile. Copy and paste their username into the end of this:
https://www.metafilter.com/username/
posted by phunniemee at 5:25 AM on November 11, 2017 [3 favorites]
https://www.metafilter.com/username/
posted by phunniemee at 5:25 AM on November 11, 2017 [3 favorites]
(Bouncing in chair with excitement)
I think I know what to send—now I just need to figure out the logistics.
I love Quonsmas!!!!!
posted by bookmammal at 5:52 AM on November 11, 2017
I think I know what to send—now I just need to figure out the logistics.
I love Quonsmas!!!!!
posted by bookmammal at 5:52 AM on November 11, 2017
Holy crap, guys. I just went in for my first round of elfin' and one of you has ALREADY sent a gift! I still haven't wiped the eye boogers out of my eyes. The quonsing has begun!
posted by phunniemee at 5:56 AM on November 11, 2017 [8 favorites]
posted by phunniemee at 5:56 AM on November 11, 2017 [8 favorites]
I'm so excited, and I have so much to work with!! Woo-hoo!
posted by Room 641-A at 7:06 AM on November 11, 2017
posted by Room 641-A at 7:06 AM on November 11, 2017
It finally happened! I got a quonsee who used my questionnaire!
posted by ocherdraco at 7:59 AM on November 11, 2017 [14 favorites]
posted by ocherdraco at 7:59 AM on November 11, 2017 [14 favorites]
I have thoroughly stalked my quonsee and am giddy with the many, many possibilities! Yay!
posted by Sophie1 at 8:29 AM on November 11, 2017
posted by Sophie1 at 8:29 AM on November 11, 2017
Hooray! This is my first Quonsmas and things could not have gone any easier in filling in the forms, getting emails from the elves, and sending my gift. I knew exactly what to get them when I saw the email. Such fun!
posted by carabiner at 11:05 AM on November 11, 2017 [1 favorite]
posted by carabiner at 11:05 AM on November 11, 2017 [1 favorite]
I have an gift idea that I think is PERFECT... so perfect that I'm worried my quonsee already has it. I think I'll send it anyways... with a second gift in case. Ahh, I'm so excited to see what they think!
posted by perplexion at 1:04 PM on November 11, 2017
posted by perplexion at 1:04 PM on November 11, 2017
Oh, this is fun. I read all I could read about my quonsee, then went out shopping this afternoon to start gathering things for the box I'll send to distant lands. I love putting together quonsmas boxes!
posted by limeonaire at 4:08 PM on November 11, 2017 [2 favorites]
posted by limeonaire at 4:08 PM on November 11, 2017 [2 favorites]
Oh, shoot. It was a super busy and stressful week and I forgot to sign up. -_- I even got the reminder email, but blagh.
I loved my quonsing last year; I can only hope next year is better. :(
posted by spelunkingplato at 6:30 PM on November 11, 2017
I loved my quonsing last year; I can only hope next year is better. :(
posted by spelunkingplato at 6:30 PM on November 11, 2017
So, the weekend got busy, and since I didn't see anything in my email, I thought maybe something tragic had happened and Secret Quonsar was cancelled this year. Man, am I glad that I finally got a chance to check this thread, which directed me to my spam folder. Tragedy averted! Now on to the totally-not-creepy-at-all stalking.
posted by MsVader at 2:56 PM on November 12, 2017 [3 favorites]
posted by MsVader at 2:56 PM on November 12, 2017 [3 favorites]
Got my email. Going international again this year (last year was my first)!
posted by mandolin conspiracy at 3:41 PM on November 12, 2017
posted by mandolin conspiracy at 3:41 PM on November 12, 2017
If you somehow did not draw my name (despite a complete and total lack of collusion! You're the colluder!), you can memail me for my demands wish list. (Please let me know if you want it priced in rubles or bitcoin.)
posted by maxwelton at 5:31 PM on November 12, 2017 [1 favorite]
posted by maxwelton at 5:31 PM on November 12, 2017 [1 favorite]
First Stats of the Season will be out tomorrow evening.
I just want to thank everyone for being so lovely so far and to remind you to CHECK THE EMAIL YOU PROVIDED in case there's an important question you need to answer (like: What's your full address? or Do you have an aversion to jelly-crusted jujubes? or Will you be home to accept a marmoset in a tiara on Thursday?)
posted by julen at 7:43 PM on November 12, 2017 [5 favorites]
I just want to thank everyone for being so lovely so far and to remind you to CHECK THE EMAIL YOU PROVIDED in case there's an important question you need to answer (like: What's your full address? or Do you have an aversion to jelly-crusted jujubes? or Will you be home to accept a marmoset in a tiara on Thursday?)
posted by julen at 7:43 PM on November 12, 2017 [5 favorites]
Despite a few minor hiccups, my gift is already on the way, hooray! WOOP WOOP!
posted by Juso No Thankyou at 11:06 PM on November 12, 2017 [1 favorite]
posted by Juso No Thankyou at 11:06 PM on November 12, 2017 [1 favorite]
Hmm,
I have done my research and it seems that last year my quonsee got a very good quonsing which I now find myself duty bound to out-quons.
Fortunately, I do have some knowledge of my victim, I mean target, I mean... uh... recipient? So... the game is on!
posted by Just this guy, y'know at 4:41 AM on November 13, 2017 [2 favorites]
I have done my research and it seems that last year my quonsee got a very good quonsing which I now find myself duty bound to out-quons.
Fortunately, I do have some knowledge of my victim, I mean target, I mean... uh... recipient? So... the game is on!
posted by Just this guy, y'know at 4:41 AM on November 13, 2017 [2 favorites]
The person who I got matched with could have made a perfect joke in their "what they want" section, and I am disappointed they didn't. But this person also likes something I do, so I know just what to get them.
posted by deezil at 5:55 AM on November 13, 2017 [1 favorite]
posted by deezil at 5:55 AM on November 13, 2017 [1 favorite]
I already know what I'm getting for my quonsee, and I am super excited about it! A little bit of something off of the info they provided, and a wild card from stalking their comments here.
posted by Fig at 6:39 AM on November 13, 2017
posted by Fig at 6:39 AM on November 13, 2017
After a bit of stalking, I think I’ve figured out the perfect thing to get my quonsee. Now to find it!
posted by holborne at 7:37 AM on November 13, 2017
posted by holborne at 7:37 AM on November 13, 2017
*dances around and scatters crafty materials all over the house*
I'm making a thing! And it's turning out pretty neat! And it's even better because my quonsee likes some of the same colours as I do, so I can make it so that it will probably look nice to both of us!
Wow, this is such fun. What a great reason to make a thing.
posted by Too-Ticky at 11:42 AM on November 13, 2017 [1 favorite]
I'm making a thing! And it's turning out pretty neat! And it's even better because my quonsee likes some of the same colours as I do, so I can make it so that it will probably look nice to both of us!
Wow, this is such fun. What a great reason to make a thing.
posted by Too-Ticky at 11:42 AM on November 13, 2017 [1 favorite]
First Stats of the Season!
380 People signed up.
039 US States are Represented plus the District of Columbia!
032 people included the exhortation to go nuts in their guidance
020 nations represented
012 people urged you to surprise them.
010 people mentioned Harry Potter
009 people are vegan, mostly vegan, or ambitiously vegan
008 gifts are already en route (that we know of)
006 Canadian Provinces Represented
006 folks mentioned Hamilton in their Guidance
004 Australian States Represented
003 of the 4 UK Nations (is that the right way to refer to that?) Represented
003 people got the same person this year they got last year (that we know of)*
002 countries are new this year!
001 person thought about the marmosets.
*The Hamsters of Randomization are truly random and pay no attention to History.
Our numbers are down this year, which I expected (it's been a tough year). I figured that if we got 350 this year, we'd be good, so 380 is delightful.
posted by julen at 4:08 PM on November 13, 2017 [9 favorites]
380 People signed up.
039 US States are Represented plus the District of Columbia!
032 people included the exhortation to go nuts in their guidance
020 nations represented
012 people urged you to surprise them.
010 people mentioned Harry Potter
009 people are vegan, mostly vegan, or ambitiously vegan
008 gifts are already en route (that we know of)
006 Canadian Provinces Represented
006 folks mentioned Hamilton in their Guidance
004 Australian States Represented
003 of the 4 UK Nations (is that the right way to refer to that?) Represented
003 people got the same person this year they got last year (that we know of)*
002 countries are new this year!
001 person thought about the marmosets.
*The Hamsters of Randomization are truly random and pay no attention to History.
Our numbers are down this year, which I expected (it's been a tough year). I figured that if we got 350 this year, we'd be good, so 380 is delightful.
posted by julen at 4:08 PM on November 13, 2017 [9 favorites]
My gift is on the way, hurray!
posted by cozenedindigo at 5:30 PM on November 13, 2017 [1 favorite]
posted by cozenedindigo at 5:30 PM on November 13, 2017 [1 favorite]
Gift sent! I may have been very goofy and sleepy while quonsing, so hopefully it turns out well.
posted by congen at 10:20 AM on November 14, 2017
posted by congen at 10:20 AM on November 14, 2017
Sent and confirmed delivered, BOOM. *drops mic*
posted by The otter lady at 5:02 PM on November 15, 2017 [3 favorites]
posted by The otter lady at 5:02 PM on November 15, 2017 [3 favorites]
Sent off today
posted by 15L06 at 11:18 PM on November 15, 2017 [1 favorite]
posted by 15L06 at 11:18 PM on November 15, 2017 [1 favorite]
PS today my local time being 16 November, 8.15am :-)
posted by 15L06 at 12:06 AM on November 16, 2017
posted by 15L06 at 12:06 AM on November 16, 2017
Aaaargh, I found the Thing for my quonsee, but it may take up to three weeks for it to ship. Got the Thing anyway, in the hopes that the shipping will be on the faster side. Fingers crossed!
posted by holborne at 8:00 AM on November 16, 2017
posted by holborne at 8:00 AM on November 16, 2017
USPS tracking status: Out for delivery! Kapow!
I'm weathering considerable chaos at home and work and expecting things to go even more sideways / pear-shaped / kablooey like any minute so I sent mine out as promptly as I could.
Part of me wishes I were as organized elsewhere in my life as here! -- but the certainty that so many of us need treats & hugs these days make Secret Quonsar feel like an important form of vicarious self-care, or self-care by proxy, and I'm all SPICE MUST FLOW.
posted by miles per flower at 11:29 AM on November 16, 2017 [2 favorites]
I'm weathering considerable chaos at home and work and expecting things to go even more sideways / pear-shaped / kablooey like any minute so I sent mine out as promptly as I could.
Part of me wishes I were as organized elsewhere in my life as here! -- but the certainty that so many of us need treats & hugs these days make Secret Quonsar feel like an important form of vicarious self-care, or self-care by proxy, and I'm all SPICE MUST FLOW.
posted by miles per flower at 11:29 AM on November 16, 2017 [2 favorites]
Since we're getting right around to the first gifts arriving ...
If you get a gift in the next week or so, check to see someone has created the sq thank you thread, and if no one has, you do it!
Do you need more gifting?
The Annual Awesome Gift Drive is Back!
Are you a Christmas Card person?
Join the Mefi Card Exchange
posted by julen at 2:03 PM on November 16, 2017 [1 favorite]
If you get a gift in the next week or so, check to see someone has created the sq thank you thread, and if no one has, you do it!
Do you need more gifting?
The Annual Awesome Gift Drive is Back!
Are you a Christmas Card person?
Join the Mefi Card Exchange
posted by julen at 2:03 PM on November 16, 2017 [1 favorite]
The first gift has landed! Behold: the Thank you thread
That thread is excellent for thank yous, pictures, envy, happiness, and awesomeness.
This thread is great for advice, complaints about delivery services, awesomeness, logistics, vaguely phrased comments, anticipation, and other things that go into sending a gift.
posted by julen at 4:53 PM on November 16, 2017 [2 favorites]
That thread is excellent for thank yous, pictures, envy, happiness, and awesomeness.
This thread is great for advice, complaints about delivery services, awesomeness, logistics, vaguely phrased comments, anticipation, and other things that go into sending a gift.
posted by julen at 4:53 PM on November 16, 2017 [2 favorites]
ohhh my god i thought i forgot to sign up but apparently I DID sign up. The email was buried in my junk mail. But now I found it and there's still time and I just feel so much better about everything. Gift shopping this weekend!
posted by silverstatue at 8:21 PM on November 16, 2017
posted by silverstatue at 8:21 PM on November 16, 2017
I need to make sure my quonsmas gift will fit into the box I've selected for it, if it does, great, I'm set and can mail it out in a couple of days, hopefully! If it doesn't well... I'm sure I have a bigger box running around somewhere?
The other trick is making sure it also won't be too cold where I'm sending it, either. No one likes their marmosets frozen, after all (they're best at room temperature).
posted by PearlRose at 6:19 AM on November 17, 2017 [1 favorite]
The other trick is making sure it also won't be too cold where I'm sending it, either. No one likes their marmosets frozen, after all (they're best at room temperature).
posted by PearlRose at 6:19 AM on November 17, 2017 [1 favorite]
By golly, I think my quansing is truly top-notch this year (if I do say so myself), made possible by the fact that my Quans-partner a) is a prominent MeFite (the pressure! the pressure!!) and therefore has a VERY useful post history to stalk *ahem* research from, b) is into a lot of the same general shit that I'm into c) is at basically the same life-stage that I am at (though this person is doing life significantly better than me, if their posting history is to be believed!), and d) is also passionate about the same slightly niche-y activity that I am passionate about. Basically, I'm buying a gift as if I were buying for a way cooler and more successful version of ME! The best confluence of narcissism and gifting possible! Yaaaaaay!
As a result, I may have splurged a little and exceeded the $$ limit a schooch. I hope the marmosets will forgive me!
Secret Quans-person: the scattered elements of your gift are on their merry way to my house, where they will be wrapped (once the perfect gift wrap has been procured), explained and over-explained via many post-it notes scattered throughout the package, boxed up, and shipped to you! Hopefully before the Thanksgiving backpacking trip I'm headed out on next week. I am so excited for you to receive this!! Gaaaahhhhhh!
(Though I know I will immediately regret posting this, as I will worry that my giving-enthiusiasm may not be met with the receiving-joy that I'm shoting for, and that what I perceive as the perfect box o'Quansmas goodness might just be ho-hum in reality........oh, why is Quans season so fraught with insecurity and anxiety and joy and wonder?!!!)
posted by Dorinda at 12:01 PM on November 17, 2017 [3 favorites]
As a result, I may have splurged a little and exceeded the $$ limit a schooch. I hope the marmosets will forgive me!
Secret Quans-person: the scattered elements of your gift are on their merry way to my house, where they will be wrapped (once the perfect gift wrap has been procured), explained and over-explained via many post-it notes scattered throughout the package, boxed up, and shipped to you! Hopefully before the Thanksgiving backpacking trip I'm headed out on next week. I am so excited for you to receive this!! Gaaaahhhhhh!
(Though I know I will immediately regret posting this, as I will worry that my giving-enthiusiasm may not be met with the receiving-joy that I'm shoting for, and that what I perceive as the perfect box o'Quansmas goodness might just be ho-hum in reality........oh, why is Quans season so fraught with insecurity and anxiety and joy and wonder?!!!)
posted by Dorinda at 12:01 PM on November 17, 2017 [3 favorites]
The white dove has flown. I repeat, the white dove has flown. The hound is running. The west wind whispers "quonsee, quonsee."
posted by Johnny Wallflower at 9:50 PM on November 17, 2017 [1 favorite]
posted by Johnny Wallflower at 9:50 PM on November 17, 2017 [1 favorite]
Just shipped mine out! So excited to see if my quonsee and her dog like it!
posted by snaw at 11:09 AM on November 18, 2017
posted by snaw at 11:09 AM on November 18, 2017
Tracking tells me the parcel is now in a truck crossing Europe. Yay.
posted by 15L06 at 12:48 PM on November 18, 2017
posted by 15L06 at 12:48 PM on November 18, 2017
Hey
So I drew you
and this is crazy
But here's your present
Enjoy, dear Quonsee
posted by Too-Ticky at 8:23 AM on November 20, 2017 [4 favorites]
So I drew you
and this is crazy
But here's your present
Enjoy, dear Quonsee
posted by Too-Ticky at 8:23 AM on November 20, 2017 [4 favorites]
I ordered something from Etsy and the shop owner is being particularly unhelpful re: shipping information and I am very frustrated. Fingers crossed it arrives this week and I can package it with the rest of the gift and send it on its way, because I always like SQ items to be the first things I wrap during Candlenights.
posted by minsies at 6:31 PM on November 20, 2017 [1 favorite]
posted by minsies at 6:31 PM on November 20, 2017 [1 favorite]
My parcel flies over the ocean
My parcel flies over the sea
Oh may this wee parcel land safely
and rapidly reach my Quonsee.
Carry
oh carry
oh carry this present for me, for me
Carry
oh carry
oh carry it to my Quonsee.
posted by Too-Ticky at 12:42 AM on November 21, 2017 [3 favorites]
My parcel flies over the sea
Oh may this wee parcel land safely
and rapidly reach my Quonsee.
Carry
oh carry
oh carry this present for me, for me
Carry
oh carry
oh carry it to my Quonsee.
posted by Too-Ticky at 12:42 AM on November 21, 2017 [3 favorites]
The beau dropped off my package at the post office yesterday for me on his way to work, and today, the tracking information is live! it's alive, it's alive, it's alive, it's alive, IT'S ALIVE! Mwhahaha.
posted by PearlRose at 9:54 AM on November 21, 2017
posted by PearlRose at 9:54 AM on November 21, 2017
Just dropped mine off at the post. First time mailing anything international. My postal clerk looked at my "happy quonsmas" that I scribbled all over the box that he asked me "is this latin?!" There was a lineup of ten people behind me so I just mumbled something along the lines of alternative holiday...
posted by tipsyBumblebee at 10:32 AM on November 21, 2017 [2 favorites]
posted by tipsyBumblebee at 10:32 AM on November 21, 2017 [2 favorites]
Fear not, quonsee! I have everything ready to go -- I just need to acquire the necessary shipping supplies (how is it that I never have a box of the right size when this time of year rolls around? It's not like I don't see this coming...) later this week while staying at my in-laws', and then I'll mail it once I'm back home early next week.
posted by cellar door at 1:37 PM on November 21, 2017 [1 favorite]
posted by cellar door at 1:37 PM on November 21, 2017 [1 favorite]
Just a friendly reminder to check your email and MeMail for a note from us. Search for "secretquonsarswap" and you will find your swap assignment AND any followup emails we may have sent.
Seriously, if you think you signed up for the swap and didn't get an assignment please check your spam filter. Swap notifications come from secretquonsarswap@[my mefi handle].net
Someone out there really needs to send us a city, state, and zip code. Don't make us call in our crack marmoset team!
ALSO, the cookie swap is back on, so mosey on over to that thread when you are done moseying on over to the card swap and the gift drive threads. Community goodness, people doing good, and tasty treats are things we can never have enough of.
posted by julen at 6:33 PM on November 21, 2017 [1 favorite]
Seriously, if you think you signed up for the swap and didn't get an assignment please check your spam filter. Swap notifications come from secretquonsarswap@[my mefi handle].net
Someone out there really needs to send us a city, state, and zip code. Don't make us call in our crack marmoset team!
ALSO, the cookie swap is back on, so mosey on over to that thread when you are done moseying on over to the card swap and the gift drive threads. Community goodness, people doing good, and tasty treats are things we can never have enough of.
posted by julen at 6:33 PM on November 21, 2017 [1 favorite]
Grar. I have officially given up on my Etsy order and asked the shop owner for a refund, because I still haven't received anything in the mail (after 10 days, argh) and the order's still showing as not shipped. Back to the drawing board.
(I have some other ideas, quonsee! I am just very annoyed at the moment.)
posted by minsies at 11:58 AM on November 22, 2017
(I have some other ideas, quonsee! I am just very annoyed at the moment.)
posted by minsies at 11:58 AM on November 22, 2017
I thought I had a great idea, but as I was researching it it started to sound like the experts were pretty eye-rolly about it, so I’m going with plan B. That and a second, smaller thing will be mailed early next week. Eep, I hope they like it!
posted by Room 641-A at 12:14 PM on November 22, 2017
posted by Room 641-A at 12:14 PM on November 22, 2017
Main objects for my and my +1's SQ have arrived. We just have to get out of the house to get the ancillary bits. And then actually succeed in getting to the post office.
We have a toddler.
Cautious optimism.
posted by sciencegeek at 2:32 PM on November 22, 2017
We have a toddler.
Cautious optimism.
posted by sciencegeek at 2:32 PM on November 22, 2017
Quonsmas package sent! Hooray!
posted by Secretariat at 3:31 PM on November 22, 2017
posted by Secretariat at 3:31 PM on November 22, 2017
Sent today! I was worried I couldn’t find a post office nearby that did postal services on a Saturday, but I did it!
posted by lesser weasel at 6:47 PM on November 24, 2017
posted by lesser weasel at 6:47 PM on November 24, 2017
Ok, I have finally received the Thing for my Quonsee. I’ll be mailing it on Monday. Very excited!
posted by holborne at 8:32 PM on November 24, 2017
posted by holborne at 8:32 PM on November 24, 2017
My Quonsee likes handcrafted items and my fingers are striving! Fortunately I have other gift-items to fall back on, but come on fingers, get with the program!
posted by corb at 10:16 PM on November 24, 2017 [1 favorite]
posted by corb at 10:16 PM on November 24, 2017 [1 favorite]
I have almost everything I need for my Quonsee's box now . . . waiting on something to arrive in the mail, but it should be here by Tuesday. I'm on track to meet the Dec. 1st mailing deadline :).
posted by Annabelle74 at 2:42 PM on November 25, 2017
posted by Annabelle74 at 2:42 PM on November 25, 2017
I sent my package out yesterday. It's on its way... it might take a week or five since it's going to Australia from Washington state, but it's on it's way.
posted by patheral at 7:37 PM on November 26, 2017
posted by patheral at 7:37 PM on November 26, 2017
Package is now in the mail!
posted by mandolin conspiracy at 8:23 AM on November 27, 2017
posted by mandolin conspiracy at 8:23 AM on November 27, 2017
I was hoping to mail my package this weekend but it wasn't quite dry* yet so it's going to have to wait a few days, possibly until Saturday.
*either Dainish oil or goat blood. You decide.
posted by bondcliff at 8:34 AM on November 27, 2017 [2 favorites]
*either Dainish oil or goat blood. You decide.
posted by bondcliff at 8:34 AM on November 27, 2017 [2 favorites]
Package is in the mail! Ahead of the deadline! ::praise hands emoji::
posted by merriment at 11:04 AM on November 27, 2017 [1 favorite]
posted by merriment at 11:04 AM on November 27, 2017 [1 favorite]
So I got the Thing for my quonsee, and got the card, and wrote a note in the card, and then I wrapped the Thing and went to put it in the box...and the box was too small.
Aaaaaaaaaarrrrgh.
On the bright side, I'll still get the Thing in the mail well before the deadline, so.
posted by holborne at 1:19 PM on November 27, 2017
Aaaaaaaaaarrrrgh.
On the bright side, I'll still get the Thing in the mail well before the deadline, so.
posted by holborne at 1:19 PM on November 27, 2017
The package has been mailed. Now we wait...
(But the customs form prints the box contents on the label, which kind of ruins the surprise. -sigh-)
posted by Svenny at 2:17 PM on November 27, 2017
(But the customs form prints the box contents on the label, which kind of ruins the surprise. -sigh-)
posted by Svenny at 2:17 PM on November 27, 2017
Shipped today... should arrive Thursday. Whee!
posted by cellar door at 4:55 PM on November 27, 2017
posted by cellar door at 4:55 PM on November 27, 2017
Shipped today for Saturday delivery. My SQ miracle is that I WAS THE ONLY PERSON IN LINE AT THE POST OFFICE AT 11:30 AM!!!!!
This makes the entire exercise worth it, if you ask me. Happy Quonsmas!
posted by halfbuckaroo at 9:09 AM on November 29, 2017 [1 favorite]
This makes the entire exercise worth it, if you ask me. Happy Quonsmas!
posted by halfbuckaroo at 9:09 AM on November 29, 2017 [1 favorite]
The reindeer have flown. I repeat, the reindeer have flown.
(Pair of packages mailed - my spouse and I are Quonsing the same zip code, oddly enough! Packages should arrive on Monday.)
posted by RedOrGreen at 7:34 AM on November 30, 2017 [1 favorite]
(Pair of packages mailed - my spouse and I are Quonsing the same zip code, oddly enough! Packages should arrive on Monday.)
posted by RedOrGreen at 7:34 AM on November 30, 2017 [1 favorite]
Looks like one piece of my collection of quons-gifts isn't going to make it in time. :( I have all the rest packed up and ready to go, so I will send them off tomorrow, and then hopefully send along the other (minor) bit if and when it shows up.
Sorry, Quons-mate! But your long wait is soon to be over, I promise!
posted by Dorinda at 1:18 PM on November 30, 2017
Sorry, Quons-mate! But your long wait is soon to be over, I promise!
posted by Dorinda at 1:18 PM on November 30, 2017
My package went in the mail 15 minutes ago. Whee!
posted by modernhypatia at 1:53 PM on November 30, 2017
posted by modernhypatia at 1:53 PM on November 30, 2017
Just returned from the post office -- my Quonsee's package is on its way west, via Priority mail!
The box turned out to be rather heavy :). But I managed to fit everything in there.
posted by Annabelle74 at 1:59 PM on November 30, 2017
The box turned out to be rather heavy :). But I managed to fit everything in there.
posted by Annabelle74 at 1:59 PM on November 30, 2017
the gift send by (or on) date is Friday, December 1*
Even though I've had an idea what I was getting my Quonsee from the moment we were matched and I did much of the work to complete the gift last weekend, I left it at home for the third day in a row and will be mailing it tomorrow.
"Team Or On" for life whether I like it or not.
posted by MCMikeNamara at 2:12 PM on November 30, 2017 [7 favorites]
Even though I've had an idea what I was getting my Quonsee from the moment we were matched and I did much of the work to complete the gift last weekend, I left it at home for the third day in a row and will be mailing it tomorrow.
"Team Or On" for life whether I like it or not.
posted by MCMikeNamara at 2:12 PM on November 30, 2017 [7 favorites]
Quonsmas miracle! The last piece of my qonsee's gift arrived moments ago, so the whole shebang will be packed up and off to the post tomorrow morning! Yay!
posted by Dorinda at 4:39 PM on November 30, 2017 [2 favorites]
posted by Dorinda at 4:39 PM on November 30, 2017 [2 favorites]
I'd just like to shout out to some very special groups of people:
People who are just finishing something handmade! (My people!)
People who are just wrapping their gifts! (My people!)
People who will be sending out their packages tomorrow, on the deadline! (My people!)
People who will celebrate getting their packages out with a large warm beverage and successfully dodging the person they went to elementary school with who sorta recognizes you but hasn't twigged it yet but doesn't want to admit they don't quite know who you are so they nod and always seem on the verge of saying something! (Just me? Ok, then.)
posted by julen at 7:57 PM on November 30, 2017 [9 favorites]
People who are just finishing something handmade! (My people!)
People who are just wrapping their gifts! (My people!)
People who will be sending out their packages tomorrow, on the deadline! (My people!)
People who will celebrate getting their packages out with a large warm beverage and successfully dodging the person they went to elementary school with who sorta recognizes you but hasn't twigged it yet but doesn't want to admit they don't quite know who you are so they nod and always seem on the verge of saying something! (Just me? Ok, then.)
posted by julen at 7:57 PM on November 30, 2017 [9 favorites]
I have to bake some cookies to include, so the whole package will be going out today, just under the wire! <3 Happy Quonsmas!
posted by firei at 3:25 AM on December 1, 2017 [1 favorite]
posted by firei at 3:25 AM on December 1, 2017 [1 favorite]
My package starts its cross-country journey today!
posted by kimberussell at 5:59 AM on December 1, 2017 [2 favorites]
posted by kimberussell at 5:59 AM on December 1, 2017 [2 favorites]
My package and that of 123fakestreet are in the hands of USPS. We both hope our quonsrecipients enjoy their motley assemblage of goodies.
posted by sciencegeek at 8:13 AM on December 1, 2017
posted by sciencegeek at 8:13 AM on December 1, 2017
I sent my Quonsee's Thing yesterday, and according to the USPS, it is hurtling toward the US Midwest as I type. I'm very excited!
posted by holborne at 8:27 AM on December 1, 2017
posted by holborne at 8:27 AM on December 1, 2017
Holy shit I don't believe it, but not only did I get my gift out by the deadline (first time that's happened maybe? ever? for me? #worstelf) but the things in it are also wrapped. And I feel really good about it--two re-gifts and a gift that achieves SEVERAL of the things my quonsee mentioned in their guidelines. And a box of Girl Scout cookies!
The mere fact that my gift is in transit on the shipping deadline is such a miracle in and of itself I'm declaring this year of quonsing the most successful yet.
posted by phunniemee at 8:38 AM on December 1, 2017 [3 favorites]
The mere fact that my gift is in transit on the shipping deadline is such a miracle in and of itself I'm declaring this year of quonsing the most successful yet.
posted by phunniemee at 8:38 AM on December 1, 2017 [3 favorites]
Even though I have access to the tracker sheet I've always behaved and never peeked at my quonsar--today I found out by accident going through the thread making updates. That's never happened before!
I KNOW WHO YOU ARE! EEEEEE!!!!
posted by phunniemee at 9:23 AM on December 1, 2017 [1 favorite]
I KNOW WHO YOU ARE! EEEEEE!!!!
posted by phunniemee at 9:23 AM on December 1, 2017 [1 favorite]
I was planning on getting mine in the mail tomorrow but I just realized there was one thing I forgot to do. I think I might still be able to pull it off by tomorrow though.
Anyone know if FedEx has any problems overnighting bees?
posted by bondcliff at 9:52 AM on December 1, 2017 [3 favorites]
Anyone know if FedEx has any problems overnighting bees?
posted by bondcliff at 9:52 AM on December 1, 2017 [3 favorites]
Oh yeah, I forgot to blank out who the elves' quonsars are this year! whoops.
I now present a scientifically determined ranking of which wrapping papers are The Worst (tm), just in time for the non-quonsar gift-giving.
1. Mylar wrapping paper
2. Newspaper that was just wrapped around 6 day old fish
3. Wrapping paper that features the smiling face of your partner's Ex and is emblazoned with "I love you, Emily!" underneath each face, but Emily is crossed out and your name is written on top of it with barely visible pencil.
posted by julen at 9:58 AM on December 1, 2017
I now present a scientifically determined ranking of which wrapping papers are The Worst (tm), just in time for the non-quonsar gift-giving.
1. Mylar wrapping paper
2. Newspaper that was just wrapped around 6 day old fish
3. Wrapping paper that features the smiling face of your partner's Ex and is emblazoned with "I love you, Emily!" underneath each face, but Emily is crossed out and your name is written on top of it with barely visible pencil.
posted by julen at 9:58 AM on December 1, 2017
As usual, I am a procrastinator. I planned to get the homemade portion of my gift made last night. Unfortunately, my body decided last night was the perfect time to get sick, and I wasn't able to do it. I will get the gift in the mail as soon as i can, but it's almost definitely not going to be today.
posted by zorseshoes at 11:57 AM on December 1, 2017
posted by zorseshoes at 11:57 AM on December 1, 2017
I am still awaiting a handmade item (sadly, not by me - I lack that particular set of skills) for my Quonsee. I am hoping to get it sometime early next week. I am sorry for being late once again this year, but I hope a few extra days of waiting will be worth it in the end.
posted by MsVader at 12:25 PM on December 1, 2017
posted by MsVader at 12:25 PM on December 1, 2017
I had half of my package ready to go two weeks ago and then used up every last minute available to me finding those last couple finishing touches and getting everything boxed up. My package is starting its journey today and should arrive early next week! Hooray!
posted by jessypie at 3:58 PM on December 1, 2017
posted by jessypie at 3:58 PM on December 1, 2017
This week has been a bit of a week. On top of rather a month. And making stuff does not always go as planned. Like waiting for things to dry. No one wants a bag of mildew. I made a command decision. I'd rather suffer the wrath of the hamsters than send a bag of sadness.
I sent off an envelope today with a few flat things, to salve my conscience. I'll ship the recalcitrant crafting and non-flat items on Monday.
posted by monopas at 4:25 PM on December 1, 2017
I sent off an envelope today with a few flat things, to salve my conscience. I'll ship the recalcitrant crafting and non-flat items on Monday.
posted by monopas at 4:25 PM on December 1, 2017
I am livid with fury. I finished every part of my Quonsee’s present, including a brand new craft thing since my sewing machine broke and I couldn’t finish the other one, ready to go today, and a contractor that was supposed to show up in the morning, thus releasing me to head to the post office, has still not arrived and it is nearly five. I am so sorry julen and quonsee! It will go out first thing tomorrow morning.
posted by corb at 4:44 PM on December 1, 2017
posted by corb at 4:44 PM on December 1, 2017
corb—it’s ok, I’m sure your Quonsee will understand.
“Quonsee” and “livid with fury” should never appear in the same paragraph!
posted by bookmammal at 5:09 PM on December 1, 2017 [7 favorites]
“Quonsee” and “livid with fury” should never appear in the same paragraph!
posted by bookmammal at 5:09 PM on December 1, 2017 [7 favorites]
Yeah, corb, don't sweat it. Unless it was for me, in which case I shall be most cross.
posted by Johnny Wallflower at 5:16 PM on December 1, 2017 [1 favorite]
posted by Johnny Wallflower at 5:16 PM on December 1, 2017 [1 favorite]
Quonsee, my package went out Priority Mail today, so fingers crossed it will reach you early next week! Our mail service is not excellent.
posted by epj at 5:20 PM on December 1, 2017
posted by epj at 5:20 PM on December 1, 2017
We ask that folks do the best they can in the circumstances they find themselves in. And sometimes, those circumstances are out of your control.
Things break. People get sick (and inevitably other people get sick). The Marmosets steal the car keys. Boss is a jerk. Vendors turn pokey. The Post Office closed 30 minutes early. Your kid reenacts the death scene from Camille in the grocery store, and you just want to get home and away from the relentless judginess in Mrs. L's eyes and forget to drop the present off on the way. Coworkers eat the tin of cookies you intended to send out. Your roommate swears they mailed it, and then you see it in their backseat 4 days later. Workmen don't clarify that "I'll be there on Friday at 9am" means "I'll be there in 2 Fridays at 9am or 11am. Let's just say 4pm. The following Monday.".
People who keep us apprised so we know what's going on are FINE (posting in MeTas count. So does email and memail). I say this as someone who gets itchy about being late for anything.
We know who the scofflaw-adjacent are (very few) and we know who are awesome quonsars (vast vast vast majority of folks, some of whom have had to overcome some crummy stuff at the end of previous Novembers).
posted by julen at 6:36 PM on December 1, 2017 [8 favorites]
Things break. People get sick (and inevitably other people get sick). The Marmosets steal the car keys. Boss is a jerk. Vendors turn pokey. The Post Office closed 30 minutes early. Your kid reenacts the death scene from Camille in the grocery store, and you just want to get home and away from the relentless judginess in Mrs. L's eyes and forget to drop the present off on the way. Coworkers eat the tin of cookies you intended to send out. Your roommate swears they mailed it, and then you see it in their backseat 4 days later. Workmen don't clarify that "I'll be there on Friday at 9am" means "I'll be there in 2 Fridays at 9am or 11am. Let's just say 4pm. The following Monday.".
People who keep us apprised so we know what's going on are FINE (posting in MeTas count. So does email and memail). I say this as someone who gets itchy about being late for anything.
We know who the scofflaw-adjacent are (very few) and we know who are awesome quonsars (vast vast vast majority of folks, some of whom have had to overcome some crummy stuff at the end of previous Novembers).
posted by julen at 6:36 PM on December 1, 2017 [8 favorites]
I have to shamefully admit to not getting my gift sent on time. The stupid self service machine was busted at the post office, and I wasn't able to get there until well after it closed last night so there was no human interaction based alternative. . So I have a box of awesome sitting on my counter just begging to start it's journey. Which will happen later today.
posted by Gygesringtone at 6:50 AM on December 2, 2017
posted by Gygesringtone at 6:50 AM on December 2, 2017
Had a minor snafu, so cookies were baked this morning and package is now on its way to NYC. Conveniently, I'm pretty to close to NYC, so it should be there Monday.
posted by firei at 7:41 AM on December 2, 2017
posted by firei at 7:41 AM on December 2, 2017
Has anyone ever told you how hard it is to crochet something with an almost-two-year-old around? Suddenly all those fun toys aren't nearly as interesting as a tiny, shiny hook that must be grabbed! Now! And forever!
He's down for a nap now, so I'll finish up this last bit of my present and we'll head to the post office when he wakes up.
posted by erloteiel at 10:27 AM on December 2, 2017 [2 favorites]
He's down for a nap now, so I'll finish up this last bit of my present and we'll head to the post office when he wakes up.
posted by erloteiel at 10:27 AM on December 2, 2017 [2 favorites]
Mine's going out today, whoops. At least it doesn't have to go all that far!
posted by asperity at 12:46 PM on December 2, 2017
posted by asperity at 12:46 PM on December 2, 2017
I just got back from the UPS store. Mine is in the mail and should arrive at the destination on Wednesday. Hopefully everything will arrive alive.
posted by bondcliff at 1:39 PM on December 2, 2017
posted by bondcliff at 1:39 PM on December 2, 2017
(And now it's gone, with a tracking number, even. Whew! Hope my quonsee likes it!)
posted by asperity at 4:22 PM on December 2, 2017
posted by asperity at 4:22 PM on December 2, 2017
In the mail, should be there Thursday! I’m feeling pretty good. I have a tracking number in case of marmoset attack!
posted by corb at 7:14 PM on December 2, 2017
posted by corb at 7:14 PM on December 2, 2017
Mine was sent yesterday and should be there early next week.
posted by Gygesringtone at 8:05 PM on December 3, 2017
posted by Gygesringtone at 8:05 PM on December 3, 2017
(sees that package hasn't been scanned by the post office yet...sighs...opens status inqury)
posted by kimberussell at 4:10 AM on December 4, 2017
posted by kimberussell at 4:10 AM on December 4, 2017
I am so embarrassed! My SQ package has yet to go out because of what almost feels like a comedy of errors: I got sick two different ways simultaneously last week; the dog got sick too and threw all our finely-balanced logistics off; when I finally made it out to go procure the last of the gift, the store I went to (one of my favorite stores ever) was permanently closed (sob); even amazon didn't deliver the packing tape I needed on time. I'm off to procure replacement goods after work today and it'll be mailed out at lunchtime tomorrow at the latest. I so apologize, my quonsee!
posted by mosst at 6:08 AM on December 4, 2017 [2 favorites]
posted by mosst at 6:08 AM on December 4, 2017 [2 favorites]
A SQ package arrived for me just as I was casting about for a suitable box in which to send my Quonsee's gift, and it was the perfect size. So I have sent it out in a recycled QuonsPak(TM) and it will be on the other coast before the week ends.
posted by headnsouth at 8:20 AM on December 4, 2017 [5 favorites]
posted by headnsouth at 8:20 AM on December 4, 2017 [5 favorites]
I wasn't able to get to the store to buy one component of my SQ gift, so I ordered it of Amazon, and it's coming today. So, I will *finally* get it out tomorrow. Quonczars, can you let my quonsee know, please?
posted by zorseshoes at 11:32 AM on December 4, 2017
posted by zorseshoes at 11:32 AM on December 4, 2017
Wasn't able to get to the store because I was sick, I mean. We're still under the weather here, but the package will go out tomorrow regardless.
posted by zorseshoes at 11:49 AM on December 4, 2017
posted by zorseshoes at 11:49 AM on December 4, 2017
It is done—my box is out in the world! And I was only about a little less than a pound off in my estimate of its weight. Go, go, little box!
posted by limeonaire at 3:49 PM on December 4, 2017
posted by limeonaire at 3:49 PM on December 4, 2017
Aaaargh, USPS has been saying all day that my Quonsee's package is in transit, since 9:15 am. Biting my nails here.
posted by holborne at 4:47 PM on December 4, 2017 [1 favorite]
posted by holborne at 4:47 PM on December 4, 2017 [1 favorite]
My quonsee's package is on a FedEx truck and out for delivery this very moment!!
I can't wait for her to get it, and I hope she'll forgive me for completely forgetting to wrap anything, or make it look in any way delightful and/or presentable....(pun totally intended)
Happy Quonsmas, secret friend!!
posted by Dorinda at 6:52 AM on December 5, 2017
I can't wait for her to get it, and I hope she'll forgive me for completely forgetting to wrap anything, or make it look in any way delightful and/or presentable....(pun totally intended)
Happy Quonsmas, secret friend!!
posted by Dorinda at 6:52 AM on December 5, 2017
I received a few boxes yesterday but I was expecting a few orders to be delivered so I didn't look closely. This morning before work I was triaging mail and YAY! I was Quonsed! And what a haul it is!
See, I had mentioned on the form that I was interested in learning to bake bread this year and I received a cookbook dedicated to bread, a baker's blade, which I didn't know existed, some goodies to munch on while I bake, a pretty card, and LOCAL NEWSPAPERS which ... I'm that strange person who loves reading newspaper pages that people use for packing material. I'm saving these for Sunday. (I worked for a local paper for many years - papers are close to my heart.)
But best of all, a personal letter from my Quonser, explaining that he bakes bread as a hobby! He took the time to explain each item in the box and tied it back to him and where he's from. He also offered up his contact info for advice and support.
Who is this generous MeFite? MeFi's own ... Clinging to the Wreckage! What else can I say but thank you? My office closes between Christmas and New Years, and I am prepared to dive into bread baking for real. Your thoughtful gift and letter brightened a gloomy 2017. You'll be hearing about my progress!
And on the giving end of things, my parcel finally blipped into existence on the USPS site, and should be arriving at its destination on Friday.
Happy Quonsmas to all!
posted by kimberussell at 3:50 PM on December 5, 2017 [3 favorites]
See, I had mentioned on the form that I was interested in learning to bake bread this year and I received a cookbook dedicated to bread, a baker's blade, which I didn't know existed, some goodies to munch on while I bake, a pretty card, and LOCAL NEWSPAPERS which ... I'm that strange person who loves reading newspaper pages that people use for packing material. I'm saving these for Sunday. (I worked for a local paper for many years - papers are close to my heart.)
But best of all, a personal letter from my Quonser, explaining that he bakes bread as a hobby! He took the time to explain each item in the box and tied it back to him and where he's from. He also offered up his contact info for advice and support.
Who is this generous MeFite? MeFi's own ... Clinging to the Wreckage! What else can I say but thank you? My office closes between Christmas and New Years, and I am prepared to dive into bread baking for real. Your thoughtful gift and letter brightened a gloomy 2017. You'll be hearing about my progress!
And on the giving end of things, my parcel finally blipped into existence on the USPS site, and should be arriving at its destination on Friday.
Happy Quonsmas to all!
posted by kimberussell at 3:50 PM on December 5, 2017 [3 favorites]
Sent! Finally sent! Thanks for your patience, quonsee--hope it's worth the wait.
posted by zorseshoes at 4:08 PM on December 5, 2017
posted by zorseshoes at 4:08 PM on December 5, 2017
Folks, I need you to check your emails - we have a couple of emails out that really do need to be answered.
posted by julen at 5:30 PM on December 5, 2017 [1 favorite]
posted by julen at 5:30 PM on December 5, 2017 [1 favorite]
LOCAL NEWSPAPERS which ... I'm that strange person who loves reading newspaper pages that people use for packing material.
Yes! I usually include this in my SQ info but this year I simplified it and forgot to add it back in. It wouldn't have mattered this year anyway but I'll be sure to include it again for future reference.
posted by Room 641-A at 2:14 AM on December 6, 2017
Yes! I usually include this in my SQ info but this year I simplified it and forgot to add it back in. It wouldn't have mattered this year anyway but I'll be sure to include it again for future reference.
posted by Room 641-A at 2:14 AM on December 6, 2017
::panics::
I thought the send by date was the 11th not the 1st and I only sent mine out today. I live in Europe and am posting to an MeFite also in Europe.
HELP!
posted by Faintdreams at 3:01 PM on December 6, 2017
I thought the send by date was the 11th not the 1st and I only sent mine out today. I live in Europe and am posting to an MeFite also in Europe.
HELP!
posted by Faintdreams at 3:01 PM on December 6, 2017
Faintdreams, I ship things from Europe, within Europe, on a weekly basis. I predict that your gift will arrive early next week. And there is nothing wrong with that: it'll be exactly in time for Quonsmas.
You can stop panicking now. It's okay!
posted by Too-Ticky at 3:07 PM on December 6, 2017 [1 favorite]
You can stop panicking now. It's okay!
posted by Too-Ticky at 3:07 PM on December 6, 2017 [1 favorite]
(And if you want to make sure your Quonsee won't worry, I suggest that you contact the Elves so they'll know that it's on its way, and can reassure the recipient if need be.)
posted by Too-Ticky at 3:10 PM on December 6, 2017 [1 favorite]
posted by Too-Ticky at 3:10 PM on December 6, 2017 [1 favorite]
Faintdreams - you are FINE. The gift will get there in good time, your intentions were good, and as far as misunderstandings go, it's totally understandable!
posted by julen at 6:45 PM on December 6, 2017 [1 favorite]
posted by julen at 6:45 PM on December 6, 2017 [1 favorite]
Thank you Julie and too-ticky. I have stopped panicking now, and will indeed contact the elves.
posted by Faintdreams at 8:26 AM on December 7, 2017
posted by Faintdreams at 8:26 AM on December 7, 2017
I have sent the gift of Quonsar out into the world.
posted by tel3path at 9:59 AM on December 7, 2017
posted by tel3path at 9:59 AM on December 7, 2017
And it has come back to me.
The contents are listed on the customs slip so I turned the box upside down and shoved it under the tree. Thank you, whoever you are, and in more detail on the big day.
posted by tel3path at 2:35 AM on December 8, 2017 [1 favorite]
The contents are listed on the customs slip so I turned the box upside down and shoved it under the tree. Thank you, whoever you are, and in more detail on the big day.
posted by tel3path at 2:35 AM on December 8, 2017 [1 favorite]
Slow and steady wins the race for sending Quonsmas gifts right? I too have finally sent a tiny treasure out into the world to a mystery recipient.
posted by GuyZero at 10:59 AM on December 8, 2017
posted by GuyZero at 10:59 AM on December 8, 2017
I had NO IDEA that when I read this comment and then responded that I was responding to my very own Quonsee! (I admit that when I read the part about you making something, I thought "Hmmm...could it be? I know I wrote that I liked receiving handcrafted items in my Quonsmas guidelines... but I'm sure LOTS of folks are crafting things, so the odds are probably not . . .") Coincidence? I think not. I think it's just another example of the MAGIC OF QUONSMAS!!!
corb, I absolutely love everything you thoughtfully chose for me--the adorable card and your sweet note, the two books, neither of which I've read (and I'm especially intrigued by the bio of Teddy Roosevelt's second wife which matches up perfectly with my interest in Presidential families), the great quilted--and personalized!--bookmark that features fabric in my favorite color, and the incredible bounty of fine chocolates! The box of assorted Gudrun chocolates (over 1 lb--and this is only one layer!) is a work of art, and that bag of truffles is huge! Really, the only thing I enjoy more than reading is reading while eating, and the only thing better than that is reading while eating chocolate!
Thank you so much, corb--and a happy, happy Quonsmas to all!
posted by bookmammal at 12:53 PM on December 8, 2017 [5 favorites]
corb, I absolutely love everything you thoughtfully chose for me--the adorable card and your sweet note, the two books, neither of which I've read (and I'm especially intrigued by the bio of Teddy Roosevelt's second wife which matches up perfectly with my interest in Presidential families), the great quilted--and personalized!--bookmark that features fabric in my favorite color, and the incredible bounty of fine chocolates! The box of assorted Gudrun chocolates (over 1 lb--and this is only one layer!) is a work of art, and that bag of truffles is huge! Really, the only thing I enjoy more than reading is reading while eating, and the only thing better than that is reading while eating chocolate!
Thank you so much, corb--and a happy, happy Quonsmas to all!
posted by bookmammal at 12:53 PM on December 8, 2017 [5 favorites]
I also misunderstood the date so mine just got shipped today but it should arrive next week (it's not international) I am a bad quonsas claus, but it's a good gift and I hope they like it.
posted by emjaybee at 9:50 PM on December 9, 2017 [1 favorite]
posted by emjaybee at 9:50 PM on December 9, 2017 [1 favorite]
Just got back from the post office. My package is finally on its way! Dear Quonsee, your package should arrive by Friday!
posted by MsVader at 4:05 PM on December 11, 2017 [1 favorite]
posted by MsVader at 4:05 PM on December 11, 2017 [1 favorite]
We have a bunch of emails sent to the addresses you folks provided when you signed up out there, waiting answers (especially since I just emailed our Maybe - Tracking Says Yes - Needs Confirmation folks for said confirmation).
posted by julen at 6:41 PM on December 12, 2017
posted by julen at 6:41 PM on December 12, 2017
Shelbaroo, you are an awesome Quonsar! I came home from a very long day yesterday to find a parcel with many lovely things: a skein of the most beautifully soft dark purple yarn (a baby alpaca/merino wool blend chainette, for those who are interested in such things), a wooden shawl pin (I have never had a shawl pin and look forward to playing with it), a super-cute cat-shaped pin and teeny-tiny embroidered notebook, all from her local area (which made me even happier because i have a fondness for her state based on some lovely visits to a dear friend there). Plus a pretty card from Artists to Watch, a company I didn't know about but will be bookmarking for future use.
Thank you so much, Shelbaroo! Merry Quonsmas, everyone!
(Quonczars, are we counting animals-in-gifts this year? Because if so, I have a cat (pin), birds (shawl pin and card), and reindeer (card) to contribute to the tally.)
posted by une_heure_pleine at 4:07 AM on December 14, 2017
Thank you so much, Shelbaroo! Merry Quonsmas, everyone!
(Quonczars, are we counting animals-in-gifts this year? Because if so, I have a cat (pin), birds (shawl pin and card), and reindeer (card) to contribute to the tally.)
posted by une_heure_pleine at 4:07 AM on December 14, 2017
We are indeed counting animals this year! The next update will be Saturdayish in the other thread, but I salute those giftors who strive for animal diversity!
posted by julen at 2:32 PM on December 14, 2017 [1 favorite]
posted by julen at 2:32 PM on December 14, 2017 [1 favorite]
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posted by Tandem Affinity at 10:05 PM on October 31, 2017