Secret Quonsar 2019 THANK YOU!

November 15, 2019 8:54 AM

Thrilled and honored to be the first to post a THANK YOU to -- I don't know who specifically, but the kind and generous soul who honored my request to be sent "anything made of dark chocolate that comes from their corner of the universe." I am now the very, very happy recipient of 6 glorious bars of superior dark chocolate from Toronto. I shall savor every bite.

Fun side note -- I received an email yesterday from "Secretariat" (one of the awesome folks that stepped up to help make Quonsmas happen this year) -- to say that my secret quonsar pal had gotten notification that my gift couldn't be delivered because I wasn't home to sign for it. I received this email while out shopping for my secret quonsar gift!!

Thank you to EVERYONE who has made Quonsmas happen this year. I hope everyone participating enjoys their secret gift as much as I will enjoy mine. Secret Quonsmas 2019 proves once again that MetaFilter is a lovely, wonderful community of amazing people.

posted by pjsky to MetaFilter Gatherings at 8:54 AM (427 comments total)

Huzzah!
posted by ocherdraco at 8:59 AM on November 15, 2019

Is it Soma chocolate?
posted by jacquilynne at 10:33 AM on November 15, 2019

Yes, it is Soma chocolate. Yum!
posted by pjsky at 10:45 AM on November 15, 2019 [1 favorite]

Ah, I knew there was something else I needed to get today, and I was in just the right shop too.
posted by biffa at 5:20 PM on November 16, 2019

I got my Quonsmas gift last week - and man! what a delight - Stranahan's Whiskey (from my home town - Denver!). Really, really good - it's got nice vanilla notes, not overly sweet, and just a hint of minerals, just how I like my whiskey. I've had to consciously ration it so it will last a *bit* longer. Thank you, unknown SQ!
I'll be sending mine next week sometime.
posted by dbmcd at 1:28 PM on November 18, 2019 [6 favorites]

I just received a beautiful card in the mail that reads “QUONSAR INCOMING.” It is signed “Q.”

I love Quonsmas!
posted by delight at 11:37 PM on November 18, 2019 [4 favorites]

Whoa, Secret Quonsar, that was fast! And this is one heck of an enormous box of yarn to sort through!! Not sure what I'm going to do with it all! Thank you for thinking of me, it was very nice of you!
posted by sarcasticah at 12:16 PM on November 19, 2019 [6 favorites]

My gift is now officially on it's way to my Quonsee in NYC and soon the Quonsmas circle will be complete!
posted by pjsky at 12:54 PM on November 20, 2019 [2 favorites]

Shipped mine off today, the elf at Canada Post told me 4 business days to Texas! I hope there will be merriment!


*Of course Canada Post is not always full of truthful spirit.
posted by antiquated at 2:26 PM on November 20, 2019 [2 favorites]

I came home from a long day (3 hour meeting with my supervisor followed by teaching a 3 hour class) to find a slim package from Hong Kong!!! It contained (wrapped in amazing jungle cat paper) Cities Without Ground: A Hong Kong Guidebook, and a note from mdonley that made me cry a little. I hope I get to use this book to explore Hong Kong soon when it is a free, open, safe, and peaceful place! Thank you for connecting me with your place, mdonley, and thank you, Secret Quonsmas Elves and Metafilter for facilitating this community!
posted by ChuraChura at 3:24 PM on November 20, 2019 [13 favorites]

Thank you SQ! I couldn't read the MeFi name, but someone sent me the most lovely (and delicious!) fancy hot chocolate mix. Just what I needed after a long day at work.

I received the last part of my outgoing SQ gift today, so my gift will be sent this weekend!
posted by cozenedindigo at 5:10 PM on November 20, 2019 [4 favorites]

I sent my parcel today; it's supposed to be delivered on Saturday.

(I feel a little uncertain because the name of the city that showed up with the ZIP Code in the USPS system was not the same as the city I was given in the address, but it looks like that might just be down to the vagaries of ZIP Codes and not some dumb thing my fingers did when I was writing the address on the box. I think I can successfully quash my anxiety for now!)
posted by minsies at 11:49 AM on November 21, 2019 [2 favorites]

Quonsar gift on it's way! Priority mail, I don't know what the delivery timing is supposed to be.
posted by coppertop at 11:59 AM on November 21, 2019 [1 favorite]

Munching Langolier - thank you so much for my Quonsmas gift! It's possible that there was a little dance done when I opened the package and realized it was my SQ. :)

Nothing will be safe from my googly eyes (and seriously, how can you *ever* go wrong with adhesive googly eyes?), I love the watercolor postcards (I can play with my alcohol ink paints with them!) and the dual brush markers are fantastic - I have been wanting to try them for a while, but hadn't bought any.

It's all so fabulous, thank you!
posted by needlegrrl at 5:13 PM on November 21, 2019 [5 favorites]

My partner was finally able to go pick up packages today and I had a lovely quonsar gift from Miles Per Flower. It included a lovely note, chocolate rugelach (one of my mostest favorite things) from Zabar's, black and white cookies from Zabar's, a NY "I voted" sticker (which is totally going to my office), handwarmers to help me get through my first Philadelphia winter, and, the piece de resistance, a NY Public Library magnet. I may possibly have jumped up and down in joy. I *may* share the black and whites with my partner but the rugelach are all mine. Thank you, thank you, thank you for joy in this time of exam nuttiness and cold!
posted by eleanna at 6:18 PM on November 21, 2019 [9 favorites]

And I am sending mine out this weekend as soon as the last bits I need are here.
posted by eleanna at 6:19 PM on November 21, 2019

Mine was sent out today. All the way across the globe. Time to sing my special Quonsmas mail song:

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 8:24 AM on November 22, 2019 [13 favorites]

I went to my mailbox yesterday, saw a package from [location where an old friend lives], got very confused, and then delighted that it was in fact, my Quonsmas gift!

Thank you so much veggieboy for the gorgeous tea towel and maple leaf cookie cutter! Time to get planning for the cookie swap (and also continue trawling my local shops for my gift for my Quonsee)!
posted by damayanti at 8:33 AM on November 22, 2019 [4 favorites]

Glinn, this gift is perfection! Seriously every part of it; the packaging, the artwork, the chocolate - I had one piece of each immediately (I'm trying to save the rest to pair with their recommended drinks), the T-shirt was made for me and the trees...oh the trees just made my day! The whole thing was an absolute delight, thank you! (Sorry for not giving more direction, hope it didn't cause any stress.)
posted by doublenelson at 11:49 AM on November 22, 2019 [5 favorites]

My Quonsmas package arrived today! I am not allowing myself to open it until I send my Quonsee's gift (Monday latest). Excited!
posted by sunset in snow country at 6:46 PM on November 22, 2019 [1 favorite]

Happy Quonsmas! And many thanks to daisyace who gifted me a puzzle book so puzzling that I had to puzzle out what the puzzle was before trying to solve it. Now I am trapped in the book but hope to escape at some point this winter. Thanks as well for the lovely note!

My own gift will be shipping early in the week.
posted by maurice at 5:53 AM on November 23, 2019 [3 favorites]

You're very welcome, maurice, and a Happy Quonsmas to you and all!
posted by daisyace at 7:06 AM on November 23, 2019 [1 favorite]

My Quonsmas gift went out in the mail, and should arrive to you this coming week, hopefully, Quonsee!
posted by sarcasticah at 12:13 PM on November 23, 2019 [1 favorite]

So I bought everything and got the company to send it out, and I asked if I could have a note in there.
"No note!" the company replied.
"Okay, how about you make one tiny change to the shipping address so that my recipient knows why they're receiving this package?"
"Too late, we're shipped it!"

So now I'm going to be obsessively watching this thread hoping that my recipient understands that the box full of pretty neat things they eventually receive in the mail is the Quonsmas gift and not, I don't know, a stalker or something.

Ugh. Sorry, recipient! I meant well!
posted by Katemonkey at 3:12 PM on November 23, 2019 [5 favorites]

Thank you It's a Mermaid for the delightful box of treats including the most Texan ornament ever! I'll drink the chocolate while writing to my mefi card club pen pals on the stationery while looking at the cowboy armadillo on my tree! The shark tooth kit will be a fun activity to share with my young friends during the season.

Thank you so much!
posted by vespabelle at 5:54 PM on November 23, 2019 [5 favorites]

Katemonkey, does the package have a tracking code? If so - after you see it's been delivered, you can ask the Secret Quonczars by email to relay a note to your quonsee that the package from __company name__ is their SQ gift.

I have gathered the components for my quonsee's gift, and now just need to package and mail them! My goal is to get that done before US Thanksgiving.
posted by rangefinder 1.4 at 8:03 PM on November 23, 2019 [3 favorites]

Super fast, pjsky! Thank you so much for the super cute, wintry-looking, gender-neutral baby gear! You're the best -- and your handwriting is really cool, too, by the way.
posted by knownassociate at 9:01 AM on November 24, 2019 [3 favorites]

knownassociate -- so happy to know your gift arrived! Congrats on the impending arrival of a new little Mefite. May your holidays with little JrAssociate be happy and healthy and full of joy.
posted by pjsky at 6:44 AM on November 25, 2019 [1 favorite]

Sent my gift off this morning, should arrive by Friday. Now I need to start gift-shopping for my relatives, which is somehow less exciting. Heh.
posted by cozenedindigo at 9:36 AM on November 25, 2019 [1 favorite]

I just got the best Quonsmas gift from wellred - a Chocolate Survival Kit (a truly great mix of different things to try!) and some lovely sustainable hot cocoa from Purdy's. I'm going to enjoy the hell out of this. I was in the middle of packing up my own Quonsmas gift when the doorbell rang, which was extra neat. Thank you, wellred!
posted by SeedStitch at 10:37 AM on November 25, 2019 [5 favorites]

My pleasure, SeedStitch! I checked to make sure there was no fruit involved :)
posted by wellred at 10:45 AM on November 25, 2019 [1 favorite]

Just mailed off my gift. Hope you like it, Quonsee!
posted by widdershins at 11:38 AM on November 25, 2019 [1 favorite]

Thank you so much, Lawn Beaver!! Lovely stripey socks and FOUR books I have never read before, including two Bujold, who I’ve been meaning to read for approximately forever! All that plus a note on a lovely postcard! Thank you thank you!!
posted by epj at 2:44 PM on November 25, 2019 [4 favorites]

I know one of you has my Secret Quonsar present - open iiiiitttttt ;)
posted by divabat at 4:10 PM on November 25, 2019 [2 favorites]

Just mailed my gift!
posted by Secretariat at 4:13 PM on November 25, 2019 [1 favorite]

DIVABAT!!! Tbh I had already guessed you were my quonsar from this comment (and my brain was so convinced of it that I had a dream that you popped back into the PoC slack to say hello, lol), but I GASPED when I opened the package and pulled out Gaysia because I LOVE BENJAMIN LAW and follow him on Instagram (and even did an internship at his American publisher, albeit shortly before they decided to publish the book, so I haven't read it)! And Bengali Harlem looks really interesting and exactly like the kind of thing I loved to read when I was doing Asian American studies. I'm so excited to read these!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you!
posted by sunset in snow country at 6:39 PM on November 25, 2019 [5 favorites]

I have been remiss in posting! I received a delightful gift from waviolet on Thursday and tore into it with abandon. This is the earliest I’ve ever gotten a Quonsmas gift! For about fifteen seconds I considered waiting to open it, but it has been a pretty rough month for me with family and personal health issues and assorted other stress. So I decided to open it! Pictures here!

I recieved a catnip toy for my cat Pippa (will share pictures soon!) and a super cut cat tarot deck! I’m super excited to play with it and try to do a reading.

Thank you so much waviolet - truly a thoughtful and lovely gift that brought a much needed smile to my face!

Happy Quonsmas!

(My own package will be going out on Saturday!)
posted by firei at 8:00 PM on November 25, 2019 [5 favorites]

I got such a cool Quonsmas gift today!! A beautiful postcard, a fun cat sticker, and two AMAZING wooden coasters that are truly gorgeous. This was very on-theme because I said that I like sustainability and art, among other things, and these handcrafted coasters from a local-to-the-sender vendor definitely fit the bill. You can tell they were made with love by someone who’s very skilled at their craft.

Quonsar, I don’t know your Metafilter username, but you did a fantastic job and I am so grateful! And the card you sent along beforehand was such a nice touch as well.

Thank you!!
posted by delight at 9:12 PM on November 25, 2019 [3 favorites]

Quonsar arrived, and I'm thrilled with the package from my new favorite mefite minsies. In addition to a cute card--with a nice note signed by them and their two dogs*--there were beautifully wrapped gifts (one with a dapping Santa tag on it!), including an assortment of treats from their local confectioner and a book by China Miéville--a perfect addition to my reading stack, especially as said stack is short on fiction at the moment. (I'm also glad to finally read a book by Miéville!)

Many thanks for brightening the Quonsmas season here at chez maxwelton--a merry Quonsmas to you, and pass along some scritches for the doggos!

* The only oversight I can see is that the package was not delivered via tiny sleigh pulled by said pups wearing clip-on antlers, but I suppose there is that thousand mile gap...
posted by maxwelton at 1:11 AM on November 26, 2019 [5 favorites]

Committed my Quonsmas parcel to the vagaries of the UK postal system yesterday. Hope it travels with low impact and arrives before it crumbles into bacteria food.
posted by davemee at 1:44 AM on November 26, 2019 [3 favorites]

Hooray! Glad everything arrived intact, maxwelton, and apologies for the lack of delivery by my dogs.

However, even if they had been able to make the trip without consuming the contents of the package (very unlikely), they definitely would've needed some assembly upon arrival.

Merry Quonsmas, and I hope you enjoy the book and the treats! The dogs will be duly scritched.
posted by minsies at 7:01 AM on November 26, 2019 [4 favorites]

Mailed my gift!
posted by ThePinkSuperhero at 8:36 AM on November 26, 2019 [3 favorites]

I have a package sent from Canada! I am waiting till Thursday evening to open it. I AM SO EXCITED!!!
posted by mightshould at 10:37 AM on November 26, 2019 [1 favorite]

Thank you thank you to my secret Quonsar! I love the soap and candles very much, and I look forward to trying the wonderful jam-- everything is just wonderful. I really appreciate it. Merry Quonsmas to you, and have a great new year!
posted by oflinkey at 1:52 PM on November 26, 2019 [3 favorites]

OH My GOSH Y'ALL. I got the best Quonsmas gift from Sinagpore! Thanks appleses! I was just in Singapore last summer visiting my sister and loved everything I ate there. I am so excited to have a new stock of salted fish skins.

Instagram pics of the package and contents!
posted by advicepig at 2:05 PM on November 26, 2019 [7 favorites]

It's great to see so many gifts sent and received so far! As a reminder for other participants --

Sending deadline

..is this coming Monday, December 2.

We always appreciate a note - either here or to our email, [e-mail] - when you've sent or received a gift, as we send out periodic reminders/check-ins throughout the month(s) and we can cross you off the list if we know the status. It helps anxious quonsars know that the gift got to you, too, even if you plan to wait on opening it. =)
posted by curious nu at 4:05 PM on November 26, 2019 [3 favorites]

I just got home from a morning out buying things to send off to my Secret Quonsar, to discover a package for me!

Thank you so much, cozenedindigo, who sent me a beautiful scarf in exactly the right shade of blue (and which fills a gap in my winter clothing I had been contemplating how to fill!) and an adorable crocheted octopus catnip toy for my cat.

(Astra is currently curled up on the bed sleeping and peering at me, but I am sure she will enjoy it when she gets around to being active again.)

Merry Quonsmas, everyone!
posted by jenettsilver at 10:17 AM on November 27, 2019 [4 favorites]

My package arrived, not opening it until my gifts are sent. Will be prepped today, shipping o Sat., ideally. Thank you Qounsar Claus, looking forward to opening it!
posted by theora55 at 11:09 AM on November 27, 2019 [1 favorite]

Just received a package from my Secret Quonsar, bulging with surprises! All beautifully wrapped in kitty cat paper, which I love. I'm not sure if your Mefi name is revealed within one of the packages and don't want to reveal your real name, but thank you so much. I want to enjoy looking at them a bit longer so I'll be posting again when I open them!

posted by antiquated at 11:37 AM on November 27, 2019 [2 favorites]

It looks like the US is getting hit with Some Weather this week, so delays may be in the forecast as well!

Two quick notes:

Tracking numbers
If you have a tracking number for your gift, and you'd like your quonsee to have that, please let us know and we're happy to pass that on. If you'd rather we just hold onto the number for proof-of-shipment and troubleshooting in case anything goes awry, we can do that, too.

Perishables
If there's anything in your package that should be kept chilled, out of the light, hermetically sealed, et cetera, please let us know and we'll pass that on to your quonsee. Many people wait to open gifts until later in December to coincide with their holidays, and may not post a note in the thread until they do so.
posted by curious nu at 1:54 PM on November 27, 2019 [3 favorites]

I have just sent my package today! I wrapped it real real good but at the post office they marked it fragile anyways. Better safe then sorry I guess? I will be using the tracking number with baited breath!
posted by Homo neanderthalensis at 2:46 PM on November 27, 2019 [1 favorite]

I came home from work to find a package on my porch that was addressed to me but that I had no memory of ordering. I suddenly realized it could be my Quonsar gift and I was right! My Quonsar chose to remain anonymous on the gift note so I can’t thank them by name, but they have chosen a delightful “literary witches” (women writers) tarot deck for me to explore - what an excellent choice! It ticks so many of my boxes and I ADORE gifts like that! They also included a yummy treat of caramel hot cocoa mix which I will absolutely be sampling this evening.

SQ, thank you so much!!! You did an excellent job!
posted by meggan at 5:42 PM on November 27, 2019 [3 favorites]

Well I ended up having to work late today, so my revised plan is to mail out my quonsee's gift this weekend. Hooray to the folks who've already sent and received gifts!
posted by rangefinder 1.4 at 10:05 PM on November 27, 2019

A mystery package has arrived form Canada!!!! My first international Quonsmas!!!!! I typically save the opening until opening Christmas gifts with family so I can't be specific in my thanks yet, but I have already received the gift of anticipation!!!!! Thank you! Merci!
posted by Tandem Affinity at 8:12 AM on November 28, 2019 [4 favorites]

Just a note to say I mailed my gift on Tuesday! Hopefully my quonsee sees it soon!
posted by Pretty Good Talker at 3:58 PM on November 28, 2019 [2 favorites]

I usually open my Quonsmas gifts as soon as I receive them, but the packages that just arrived are so wonderfully wrapped that I have to save them under my tree to open at Christmas. Thank you so much, Secret Quonsar!
posted by Vectorcon Systems at 5:16 PM on November 28, 2019 [3 favorites]

Oh gee, gosh, I'm almost speachless. My wonderful quonsar has begifted me with a stunning tree decoration made in Nova Scotia - selected as beautiful symbol of my love for gardening. While it's meant to be an ornament I think I'll be using it as a daily talisman against darkness and seeing it as a symbol of growth and life. How wonderful.

And I also have a delightful little moosie themed pouch thst will be a perfect size to protect and carry my cell phone while I'm out gardening.

But most grand of all is the personal note and loving thought that comes along with this quonsmas season.

I don't know if you want to be outed as my quonsar, so I will not name you here, but my most sincere gratitude is beaming your way. It's all so lovely!
posted by mightshould at 7:43 PM on November 28, 2019 [9 favorites]

Tracking indicates that my SQ gift reached its recipient last week. I hope my misguided attempts to send industrial grade marmosets wrapped solely in tinfoil have succeeded.
posted by sciencegeek at 4:44 AM on November 29, 2019 [3 favorites]

Posted my SQ gift yesterday and apparently it left the country at 2am this morning - guessing that means it will have arrived on the other side of the Atlantic by now!
posted by EndsOfInvention at 5:40 AM on November 29, 2019 [1 favorite]

Hooray, the post office is open on Black Friday! Dear quonsar, your package should arrive on Monday. Merry Quonsmas to all!
posted by orrnyereg at 8:46 AM on November 29, 2019 [1 favorite]

I just opened my Quonsmas presents and they're excellent!! After I sent my guidance, I started fretting that I'd over-stated my appreciation for useful things over gift-y ones, so I'd get something boring. I needn't have worried! My SQ, craven_morhead, interpreted it perfectly and selected a simple, well-designed, wood-handled pocket knife that I will really enjoy having.

Along with it, he also sent a stand he made in his wood shop. It's decorated with a fox (his sweet logo), which is so appropriate because soon after we moved into our new house, we were delighted to spot a litter of foxes by our mailbox! My husband will get a ton of use out of the stand, since he's been struggling to prop our tablet up against random stuff while watching sports -- but I'm the one who will most appreciate that those piles of stuff will be put away, replaced by this lovely, minimal stand.

Thank you so much, craven_morhead, and a happy Quonsmas to all!
posted by daisyace at 1:08 PM on November 29, 2019 [6 favorites]

Funny how the littlest thing can give you such a spark of happiness. For what did appear in my mailbox this evening but a sweet note from my quonsar informing me the elves are still at work on my present

And now I must resist trying to figure out what the gift is, based upon a little clue. (But guessing and opening is half the fun!)

Meanwhile earlier this week my quonsee's package went off to another country. I haven't sent many packages outside the US, and didn't know a customs form detailing the contents would be attached.(?) I hope the quonsee will skip reading the list and go straight to unwrapping the gifts!
posted by NorthernLite at 4:14 PM on November 29, 2019 [2 favorites]

Mailed my quonsee's gift today! I think I quadruple-checked the address, and I wrapped up the box to try and protect it from the elements, so hoping it makes it there safe and sound. There was no line at the post office and I made the clerk laugh, so hooray for good spirits all around. Hey that rhymes. Hooray for accidental rhyming!
posted by rangefinder 1.4 at 4:30 PM on November 29, 2019

I asked my husband to mail my quonsar gift out about four days ago. Unfortunately I forgot to ask him to make he got the tracking number to me so I am searching the house for the receipt. But it should be en route.
posted by PussKillian at 4:34 PM on November 29, 2019 [1 favorite]

USPS tells me the gift I shipped was delivered today!
posted by maurice at 4:55 PM on November 29, 2019

Pretty Good Talker it arrived today, and it's perfect on several levels! I forgot to mention in my MeMail that the brilliant shininess of the wrapping and envelope also made me squee. Thank you (and Pretty Good Wife) so much!
posted by rhiannonstone at 6:42 PM on November 29, 2019 [4 favorites]

Sent mine out and got confirmation it was delivered on Wednesday.
posted by XtineHutch at 6:50 PM on November 29, 2019 [1 favorite]

I don't even know how to begin!

needlegrrl, who in addition to being a lovely mefite in general has also organized the metafilter winter holiday card exchange these past three years (which has led to the valentine exchange and the delightful monthly meficardclub), sent me an incredibly thoughtful gift of a set of incredibly gorgeous Daniel Smith watercolor primatek tubes (they're made of ground-up minerals! and this brand is my favorite!) and I am so touched I'm on the verge of tears.

For my whole life, my creative outlet was writing stories and exchanging long letters and reading endless stacks of books, but since I got sick (and forgetful and unable to concentrate and just really tired, which is part of the whole thing, and arguably worse than the physical symptoms), I've been unable to connect. On a whim this fall, I signed up for a weekly beginner watercolor class as a kind of birthday present to myself, even though I'm awful at most kinds of art, and from the first swipe of the brush, there was vibrancy and play in my life again. After nearly four years of feeling so dull and uncreative and helpless to address that, I felt joy.

So the package came tonight and I opened it and I squeed quite loudly and scrambled over to the work table and tested them out immediately and they are so vivid and captivating and glossy and, oh how they absolutely dance in a shimmer of water. They look like something out of a dream.

In my guidance this year, I mentioned I like art supplies. But needlegrrl must have somehow found my comments about watercolor and my fascination with moody hues and how much I enjoy them. I've been transitioning my collection from student paints to artist grade soooo slowly and these are so lovely. You tripled my collection. It's just so thoughtful, and exactly perfect, and such a gift in so many ways.

This is my eleventh year doing SQ and it's funny but somehow every year I receive a gift that's thoughtful, genuine, personal, and from the heart. It's like it's from family -- you know, good family, the ones who actually get you. I can only hope to begin to match that in the gifts I send.

So thank you, needlegrrl, for your thoughtfulness, your warmth, and your kindness, as always, but especially today. I am so touched and excited about exploring these vibrant new paints through the depths of winter. You're a star. And I thank you.
posted by mochapickle at 7:18 PM on November 29, 2019 [20 favorites]

I got such a lovely SQ gift from a non mouse, a cow herd of a beautiful puzzle , She-Rah socks that made me squee so loudly that Pretty Good Wife and Pretty Good Cat were startled, and a beautiful note. Thank you so much to my Quonsar and to everyone who put Quonsmas together. A merry Quonsmas to us all!
posted by Pretty Good Talker at 8:51 PM on November 29, 2019 [6 favorites]

I’m feeling cheerful as I have received delightful gifts from Bookworm4125. Thank you for everything - it definitely hit the mark. I shall enjoy sketching, and am appreciating the stones as I type.

They have brought San Franciscan sunshine to the gloom of an English winter.
posted by Gilgongo at 3:55 AM on November 30, 2019 [6 favorites]

I went to pick up some parcels and also post my sq parcel. But apparently you can't actually send parcels from the parcel office.
Because... Reasons I guess?

Also all the post offices have been torn down. So I'll find a post office on the way to work on Monday.
posted by Just this guy, y'know at 5:26 AM on November 30, 2019 [1 favorite]

Woohoo! mollymillions quonsed me with something highly relevant to my interests and that I totally love: a sweet black t-shirt with a storm trooper made out of tropical flowers and diamond emojis. I never would have picked it out for myself (despite all the boxes it checks for me), and I appreciate it even more for that. It's graphic and absurd and excellent. Thank you!
posted by miles per flower at 7:18 AM on November 30, 2019 [7 favorites]

oh my!!! Liesl found an old post about rice and sent us the most crazy collection of different rices from an outstanding market near her. complete world tour of obscure stuff we have never tried (or even heard of half of them... green jade rice? yes please!!) thank you so much. Quonsmas has come to mean so much to me every year it's hard to express. even my wife and kids expectantly wait for the day it comes and can't wait to see what an internet stranger has brought us!!!

thank you so much Liesl, expect memail with pictures of happy rice eaters!!
posted by chasles at 9:33 AM on November 30, 2019 [9 favorites]

Many thanks for the Vegas Golden Knight socks, Quonsee! I could not find a name on the package insert but know that I'm sending lots of appreciation your way!
posted by beaning at 10:32 AM on November 30, 2019 [3 favorites]

I have sent my thing off into the void, via UPS. It's supposed to arrive by Wednesday but given the weather I wouldn't be surprised it'll get delayed.
posted by bondcliff at 10:46 AM on November 30, 2019 [2 favorites]

I'm feeling excited; I found a couple of final items for my secret Quonsar recipient today, and I should be on track to mail the package out on December 2nd.
posted by Annabelle74 at 11:49 AM on November 30, 2019 [1 favorite]

I'm not sure who sent me The Pepper Plant and Tia Lupita hot sauces, and the Rustic Bakery cacao nib shortbread cookies and Dick Taylor chocolate bar, but I'm super-happy to receive the gift. It all looks really delicious, and I've never even heard of any of these brands, so, all in all, that's some excellent quonsar-ing. You pick out a nice wrapping paper, too.
posted by box at 12:34 PM on November 30, 2019 [6 favorites]

I just got back from a week with only spotty internet and was sorting through the mail pile. I couldn’t remember what I had ordered from Amazon that would be book shaped. I was delighted to discover it was a beautiful book about English paper piecing and some EPP templates too! Thank you so much lemon_icing! I can’t wait to step up my paper piecing game!
posted by itsamermaid at 1:31 PM on November 30, 2019 [7 favorites]

I, a millennial, have never mailed a package in my life and did not realize that all the post offices around me are closed on the weekend, so there go my carefully laid plans to not get things done last minute. Ah well...
posted by brook horse at 4:28 PM on November 30, 2019 [6 favorites]

Initial stats edition, in julen tradition!

Largest group was USA Only, followed closely by International. Australia/NZ group didn't make it this year due to only one initial sign-up (who gracefully accepted international). I think doing a 1st + 2nd choice group next year might be a good idea? Or possibly some extra groups, or selection of countries, or.... something!

286 total participants!
75 gifts confirmed sent!
43 gifts confirmed received!

More to come as things roll in! Thank you to everyone who has been keeping us updated on gifts sent/received. I'm planning on reminder/check-in emails at the end of this coming week.
posted by curious nu at 5:24 PM on November 30, 2019 [20 favorites]

Ok, dudes, I have received the *awesomest Quonsar gift* today from the fabulous mrcrow! I’m putting this here as a placeholder thank you, because I’m about to dash out to someone's house after having just gotten back from work (yeah, it’s Saturday on a holiday weekend), but I just want to note that this was the perfect gift at the perfect time. More later, I promise! Thank you, mrcrow!!
posted by holborne at 6:25 PM on November 30, 2019 [3 favorites]

According to USPS, the package I sent has been delivered so hopefully it is safe in the hands of my quonsee!
posted by brilliantine at 10:18 AM on December 1, 2019 [1 favorite]

Gilgongo I am overjoyed you like the gifts! Thanks for that great photo. I think choosing and sending is more fun than receiving! I've heard my gift had been received here at my house but I want to wait to open it. :)
posted by bookworm4125 at 1:34 PM on December 1, 2019 [2 favorites]

Just posting to say I sent out a gift to my quonsee yesterday! :)
posted by pdxhiker at 1:57 PM on December 1, 2019 [1 favorite]

[Posting to say my gift has reportedly been delivered!]
posted by knownassociate at 3:20 PM on December 1, 2019 [1 favorite]

Gifts wrapped and packed and ready to go to Post Office tomorrow.
posted by LeftMyHeartInSanFrancisco at 4:53 PM on December 1, 2019 [1 favorite]

I was all over town today searching for the perfect thing, but struck out and went with a backup-gift from the internet. It feels weird not to be taking a SQ parcel to mail.
posted by janell at 5:42 PM on December 1, 2019 [2 favorites]

ThePinkSuperhero, thank you so much for that wonderful package of candy and super cute office supplies (individually wrapped in newspaper comics!) It's extremely thoughtful and I'm already plotting how I can incorporate everything into my bullet journal and boring work desk. What an awesome first Quonsmas!

(Also, TPS, I hope you don't mind that I liked your idea of sending cards ahead of time so much that I stole it for my quonsee.)

Yay Quonsmas, and thank you to all of the organizers who made this happen this year!
posted by jameaterblues at 5:47 PM on December 1, 2019 [6 favorites]

Tandem Affinity:

A mystery package has arrived form Canada!!!! My first international Quonsmas!!!!! I typically save the opening until opening Christmas gifts with family so I can't be specific in my thanks yet, but I have already received the gift of anticipation!!!!! Thank you! Merci!

You're welcome!

I would like to reveal myself as your Secret Quonsar. I will, of course, remain mum on the exact nature of your gift since you're saving the opening until Christmas. I will, however, say that I admire your restraint!

Happy Quonsmas!
posted by mandolin conspiracy at 6:37 PM on December 1, 2019 [3 favorites]

Thanks to meinvt! The custom cutting board is very cool and part of the wonderful randomness of Quonsar!
posted by Nackt at 8:03 PM on December 1, 2019 [3 favorites]

I got a fabulous book called Why We Quilt from maurice! It’s past 1AM, I have just returned from seeing a show with other mefites, and still I am finding it difficult to keep myself from staying to read the whole thing. This is lovely. Thank you.
posted by ocherdraco at 10:23 PM on December 1, 2019 [5 favorites]

So glad you like it ocherdraco! Hearing about that book by a local artist right after drawing your name is one of those Quonsmas miracles.
posted by maurice at 5:00 AM on December 2, 2019 [2 favorites]

Useful Info: If you're using an Amazon Wishlist, please double-check that the address attached to that list is up-to-date. Apparently this is not always the case! *makes notes in the SQ Manual*

I want to thank my secret quonsar (and their mischievous helper elfs) for a copy of a card game called Royalty! This was a complete surprise and I'm looking forward to playing this with friends sometime soon. =)
posted by curious nu at 5:41 AM on December 2, 2019 [6 favorites]

I did find the receipt, and my quonsmas gift should have been delivered on Saturday. Hopefully no time-of-year delays happened.
posted by PussKillian at 9:19 AM on December 2, 2019

I have successfully located an undemolished actual post office and have successfully dispatched my quons to the vagaries of the postal service.

It will probably arrive tomorrow, seeking a signature to validate its epic 14 mile journey.
posted by Just this guy, y'know at 9:45 AM on December 2, 2019 [6 favorites]

Thank you to my SQ who nailed my gift so perfectly I’m in awe. Botanical themed tea in BEAUTIFUL packaging and the most darling floral binder clips I’ve ever seen. I just sent out my gift across the ocean today - nothing like submitting right up to the deadline eh? What a fun tradition and I’m so happy I participated this year!
posted by seemoorglass at 10:26 AM on December 2, 2019 [3 favorites]

Thanks to Puss Killian for a wonderful bottle of specialty cocktail bitters! I use them not only for tasty cocktails, but also for flavoring fizzy water in our house. Happy qonsmus!
posted by craven_morhead at 10:53 AM on December 2, 2019 [4 favorites]

USPS tracking says the Quonsmas package has been delivered!
posted by coppertop at 11:14 AM on December 2, 2019

So I *finally* got A package off to my Quonsee today - there will be more, but the core gift is on it's way!
posted by dbmcd at 12:11 PM on December 2, 2019 [1 favorite]

Despite the weather, I managed to get mine to the post office this afternoon - it's going priority, so it should be there Thursday or so.
posted by jenettsilver at 12:54 PM on December 2, 2019 [1 favorite]

Mailed out a package to my Quonsee today! December really snuck up on me, wow. Anyway, USPS says it should arrive in three days.
posted by yasaman at 1:49 PM on December 2, 2019 [1 favorite]

I mailed my package out and USPS says it was delivered to the front desk/reception/mail room on 11/27!
posted by queensissy at 2:10 PM on December 2, 2019 [1 favorite]

I managed to mail mine off last Friday and hope it makes it across the ocean in good order...
posted by frumiousb at 2:21 PM on December 2, 2019 [1 favorite]

Dear Secret Quonsar -

My desk is an old, heavy, metal, ugly industrial beast that I inherited when spouse and I purchased our home. So it is a perfect medium to display the beautiful little Marcart and Boston Red Sox duck and ducklings magnets which are now proudly hanging on one of the drawers.

Everything is perfect. The Holiday tea, the luggage tag, the beautiful little bell ornament and lovely red scarf and beautiful card. Thank you, thank you, thank you for such a thoughtful combination of gifts.
posted by theBigRedKittyPurrs at 3:23 PM on December 2, 2019 [4 favorites]

Thank you, capricorn! What a delightful package I received today, overflowing with adorable otter (?) stickers, totally On Brand For Me sticky notes with squid, octopi and whales, and a cute strawberry milk carton shaped pencil case stuffed full of colored pens! Yay! Thank you so much! Happy Quonsmas to all!

(I mailed a postcard a week ago to my SQ recipient as their gift is postponed. I will check with the company to see if they have an ETA tomorrow.)
posted by jillithd at 3:57 PM on December 2, 2019 [3 favorites]

Mailed my package today and will now obsessively track progress.
posted by rekrap at 4:20 PM on December 2, 2019 [1 favorite]

Thank you, centrifugal! One wondrous thing after another tumbled from my perfectly packed package. I feel like I got one of everything on my long and particular list. A Seattle-themed dish towel, a charming notebook, gourmet goodies made from your own garden (that crab apple pepper jelly(!) yes, i have already tried it), and that gorgeous handmade orange mug. My mother-in-law was a potter and my husband remarked on your considerable talent.

I am moved to tears by your thoughtful gifts and sweet note. Thanks for brightening my little corner of the world. Happy Quonsmas!
posted by XtineHutch at 4:26 PM on December 2, 2019 [4 favorites]

USPS confirmed that SQ package was picked up today! Off it goes across the border.

I probably could have driven it there in less time. Fingers crossed!
posted by RhysPenbras at 7:04 PM on December 2, 2019 [1 favorite]

I am in receipt of a wonderful, thoughtful Quonsmas package from antiquated! I have extra cushiony warm socks, a delicious-smelling maple syrup candle that promises to crackle like a fire when lit, a new-to-me flavor of Lay’s chips (ketchup!), and the most beautiful glass earrings made by antiquated’s very own hands. (Here’s a pic that does not do the gifts justice.)

Any one of these delights could stand on its own as a perfect gift, but all together! I’m overwhelmed with the kindness and generosity. Thank you so much, antiquated, for your thoughtful gifts and the lovely card. You’ve made my holiday season especially bright.
posted by erloteiel at 7:10 PM on December 2, 2019 [4 favorites]

XtineHutch, I’m so glad you liked the package - putting it together made me so happy! I can’t believe it got there so fast. Happy Quonsmas!
posted by centrifugal at 7:38 PM on December 2, 2019 [2 favorites]

I have quonsed off my quonse, and hope it arrives soon and makes my quonsee happy!
posted by Mister Moofoo at 7:42 PM on December 2, 2019 [1 favorite]

omg I just looked at my receipt and
I can TEXT
my TRACKING NUMBER
to a number for updates.
how did I never know about this?

how do I resist the temptation to just keep on trackin?
posted by Mister Moofoo at 7:50 PM on December 2, 2019 [1 favorite]

I got to the post office more than 30 minutes before closing, stood in line for 20 minutes, and then watched for another 20 minutes while the only desk employee wrestled with the POS terminal and finally declared that he couldn't get it to work and I should come back the next day. :-(
posted by drlith at 8:05 PM on December 2, 2019

Thank you, secret Quonsar in 11226, who gifted me a ginger snap (yum!) Tanzanian chocolate bar, funny (cotton, YAY!) NYC socks which will annoy my fellow Boston citizens, and a super cute mini travel case “avec interieur velour.” I feel all warm and fuzzy.
posted by mollymillions at 8:26 PM on December 2, 2019 [3 favorites]

I have joined the league of those who have sent! Road construction be damned, I arrived at the post office and posted. Quonsee, it’s on the way!
posted by ZenMajek at 8:53 PM on December 2, 2019 [1 favorite]

Wow. Wow. Just arrived back home after T-giving to find an amazing gift from queensissy! Seriously contemplated joining Instagram just so that I can post pictures the beautiful handmade magnets (how?... the beads?!... in that shape?!?!...), the colorful brads, wonderful soft pencils, and pictures of my cats scarfing up the first 4 days of the Cat Advent Calendar Treats (I tried to convince them you're supposed to open only ONE window, I really did!). The gifts were perfect! Even the postcard included was beautiful! I'm so glad I participated! I cannot wait till next year!
posted by Dotty at 8:54 PM on December 2, 2019 [4 favorites]

Quonsee's gift has been bought! It should arrive to a destination west of me between 12/7 and 12/11.
posted by SisterHavana at 9:09 PM on December 2, 2019 [1 favorite]

Today I was thrilled to receive a lovely scented soap and candle from Sparky Buttons - handmade by a local artisan.

While I of course wash my hands numerous times a day as one does, I save a special nice-smelling bar soap for nightly bed time wash-up. I often think fondly of the person who gifted me the soap while sudsing. So, as a result of operant conditioning, I will forever think positively of Sparky Buttons. Thank you so much!
posted by rekrap at 10:25 PM on December 2, 2019 [4 favorites]

Dear erloteiel, I’m so delighted that you like your surprises. I hope you enjoy them and have a happy holiday and Quonsmas season!
posted by antiquated at 7:32 AM on December 3, 2019 [2 favorites]

After a crazy busy November, I finally managed to finish one thing I wanted to include. So for the quonsmas elves, note that my package went out yesterday. Down to the wire!
I did not realize how obsessive the USPS has become about including every little detail on the customs declaration, so now an entire post office worth of strangers know exactly what is in the package because I had to repeat the list out loud at least three times... :shakes head:
posted by gemmy at 7:35 AM on December 3, 2019 [2 favorites]

stuart_s, thank you SO MUCH for my amazing package of stickers, cat-themed stuff, and my favorite, ZINES! Everything was so thoughtful and it was such a joy to receive. The super cute impostor syndrome zine is going to stay on my desk at work so I can read it whenever I'm feeling those impostor feelings. Thank you again for making my first Quonsmas so enjoyable!!
posted by miserable-mild at 7:59 AM on December 3, 2019 [3 favorites]

So glad it arrived safely, jillithd! (And yes, they're otter stickers!)
posted by capricorn at 9:54 AM on December 3, 2019 [2 favorites]

Woo!

A package was waiting for me in our mailroom today.

It was from my Secret Quonsar yarntheory!

THANK YOU for the awesome fridge magnets. One is a Maine lobster with spring-loaded legs and claws, and the other is a reproduction of Diego Rivera's Detroit Industry, North Wall. I've seen it in person, so I'm glad to have it up on our fridge -- and both are a welcome addition to our fridge magnet collection.

yarntheory also included a wonderfully heavy 2 tbsp. stainless steel measuring spoon. I love it, and it will get lots of use.

Our Lewis Chessmen magnets seem either excited or concerned about their new neighbours, depending on which one of them you ask.

Thank you, yarntheory!
posted by mandolin conspiracy at 10:21 AM on December 3, 2019 [6 favorites]

Just mailed mine off! I regret to say that it went out a day late, because I was waiting for one more thing that was delivered yesterday, but since it is just going elsewhere in my state and should arrive Friday, that hopefully shouldn’t be a problem! I spent my time in line at the post office glowering at the woman berating the postal clerks behind the counter for how long the line is - because sure, those folks are definitely in charge of hiring and staffing.
posted by skycrashesdown at 1:43 PM on December 3, 2019 [1 favorite]

Oh goodness we were supposed to give updates! Please forgive this first-timer!

My quonsar gift was dropped off to be delivered on Dec 1, and it is scheduled to arrive at the destination on Monday (Dec 9).
posted by sweetpotato at 1:46 PM on December 3, 2019 [1 favorite]

USPS says that the first portion of my quonsared gift arrived to its recipient yesterday, despite the snow dump in the Boston area! Next installment tracking to arrive on Thursday!
posted by Tandem Affinity at 3:21 PM on December 3, 2019 [1 favorite]

secret quonsar, I'm drinking the Harney&Sons tea RIGHT NOW and the aroma is DELIGHTFUL. I can't wait to try the honeyed hazelnut chocolate from Maine--and ngl I laughed at the title of the book you sent along, Astrophysics for People in a Hurry. XD Thank you so much! ♥
posted by ilicet at 3:38 PM on December 3, 2019 [4 favorites]

Quick update to my Quonsar - my kitty Luna loved the bell so much she tried to take off with it. It will be placed high, high, high on our tree once we get it up.
posted by theBigRedKittyPurrs at 3:46 PM on December 3, 2019 [2 favorites]

Mailed my package today—it was slightly behind schedule, but, in my defense... uh, I don’t know how to end this sentence.
posted by box at 5:41 PM on December 3, 2019 [3 favorites]

Ditto box. My package went out today. In my defense, time marched on whether I was ready or not.

Seriously, though, sorry for the delay!
posted by erloteiel at 6:34 PM on December 3, 2019 [2 favorites]

Quonsmas ahoy! We dug out from our snowstorm and I mailed off my package and a package from Dibbery, and what do you know - I got home today to find a package waiting for me!

And not just any package - Bondcliff has mailed me a HUGE, MASSIVE, 9-pound package. Something inside has apparently clawed air holes for itself at one corner, so I'm apprehensive, but tremendously excited.

I'm going to wait a few days for my wife to get Quonsed too, so that we can celebrate Quonsmas together - I'll report back when I open it. (I'm assuming the duct-taped marmosets inside will not be too unhappy to wait a few days? Bondcliff, please let me know if this is a bad idea...)

So excited!
posted by RedOrGreen at 7:05 PM on December 3, 2019 [7 favorites]

Mine also went out today, so sign me up for membership in that club. I rather absent-mindedly forgot my wallet at home yesterday.... but I definitely remembered it today!

I have also received my gift in the mail, today! A quick glance did not reveal a MeFi username, and I shall not be opening this until my gift has reached its recipient. Thank you in advance Quonsar from the USA!! I will return with many compliments for the contents once the post office does its work.
posted by invokeuse at 7:05 PM on December 3, 2019 [1 favorite]

Sorry SQ, I wasn’t timely in getting to the Post Office, but your gift is in the mail and due to arrive on Friday, 12/6. Happy Quonsmas to all!
posted by kbar1 at 9:01 PM on December 3, 2019 [1 favorite]

My package was sent off on the 2nd, and should arrive within five days of that date!
posted by ilana at 10:39 PM on December 3, 2019 [2 favorites]

A big thank you to OntologicalPuppy for the game Telestrations! I received it (with great delight) last week, but then in an extremely rare fit of tidying my husband threw the box and note out for recycling. It took some digging to find the note and get the right handle for my thank you. I can't wait to play -- it looks super fun! (And I look forward to snagging my own Maine penny one of these days...in the summer! ;)

(p.s. I mailed my package Friday!)
posted by Mrs. Rattery at 3:44 AM on December 4, 2019 [3 favorites]

My gifts are off, a two-parter. I had to order one and have it shipped directly and shipped the other myself on Monday. It occurs to me that I probably didn't include my username in the package so if you get a two-part gift including something delicious from St. Louis... that's probably me.
posted by jzb at 4:51 AM on December 4, 2019 [2 favorites]

Eek, a little flurry of excitement (not the good kind) at work caused a delay. Package is going out today. Sorry, Quonsee!
posted by holborne at 6:29 AM on December 4, 2019 [1 favorite]

USPS tracking says my Quonsee's parcel is in the destination city and "currently in transit to the destination" so maybe it will arrive today??
posted by EndsOfInvention at 6:53 AM on December 4, 2019

Sorry, Quonsee! We got a nasty snowstorm over here and the mail didn't get picked up on the 2nd! Your gift is on its way, though, and you should have it by the end of the week!
posted by lydhre at 6:54 AM on December 4, 2019 [1 favorite]

Hurray! I find myself thoroughly quonsed by Scretariat! They sent me a whole stack of local magazines and papers, making for a neat portable peek into their world. Furthermore, there is a very pretty card to explain what they all are and which I hung on the wall right away because it looks great. There is interesting local chocolate in two flavours, several bags of tea (of which I already enjoyed one), and a gorgeous art card of a tiger, to keep or to send (I think I'll keep it for a while at least, it looks so nice!) and the thing I love the most is the enamel pin depicting a tiger eating a book! You really hit it out of the park there.

Finally, there is a toy for the cats too. It looks like a little, felted sushi roll. There must be catnip involved because the cats find it a lot of fun. Here's one of them pausing/posing for a picture. Taking pictures of black cats playing with a mostly black toy isn't very easy so this is the best I managed.

Thank you very much, you did a great job!
posted by Too-Ticky at 7:03 AM on December 4, 2019 [5 favorites]

(And sorry for mistyping your username. It must have been the excitement.)
posted by Too-Ticky at 8:29 AM on December 4, 2019

Yay theBigRedKittyPurrs , I'm so glad you liked them!
posted by darsh at 9:14 AM on December 4, 2019 [2 favorites]

I am still waiting for the final component for my collection of gifts to arrive, and then I can send mine off. I didn't realize when I placed the order that it was coming all the way from Portugal, so I'm not sure when I can expect it (there's no tracking info available that I can find - I'll contact the seller directly).

Hold tight, Quonsee, it's coming!

In the meantime, please enjoy my new favorite holiday song.
posted by MsVader at 11:57 AM on December 4, 2019 [2 favorites]

For the record, though I am admittedly 2 days late in mailing out my secret Quonsar package . . . it is now in the mail and I have a tracking # for it. Hooray! I mailed it in a flat-rate Priority box and it doesn't have to travel terribly far, so my Quonsee should receive it by next week.
posted by Annabelle74 at 12:20 PM on December 4, 2019 [1 favorite]

I AM LATE, but my gift is shipping direct and should arrive to my Quonsee no later than the 16th?!?
This has been a busy month and I didn't get a chance to put together the SQ gift myself, Ugh I suck this year, but I hope they like it.
posted by Julnyes at 12:42 PM on December 4, 2019 [1 favorite]

Hi! I received my SQ package today, but I am traveling for work and can't open it until I get back home Sunday.
posted by minsies at 12:49 PM on December 4, 2019 [3 favorites]

Who has two thumbs and posted a thank you in the sign up thread?

👍This guy.👍

Good news update though, I got out of work before 4:30!
Bad news: my train was off schedule and I missed it!
posted by phunniemee at 2:32 PM on December 4, 2019 [4 favorites]

Thank you so much, rekrap, for the gifts! I don't think you knew that I have a preschooler at home, but he has already commandeered the racetrack. I'm planning to keep the homemade goodies for myself! Happy singing!
posted by pingzing at 2:58 PM on December 4, 2019 [3 favorites]

Sorry for the late thank you, but thank you so much baseballpajamas! Love the hyperlocal nature of the gifts, and enjoyed learning about Adamant. We are saving the local maple syrup for a special day, and the special chocolate for a special evening (nudge nudge wink wink). The goat milk soap also smelled amazing, and the coffee mug will be put to good use this snowy winter. Happy Quonsar!
posted by Philbo at 3:35 PM on December 4, 2019 [3 favorites]

OMG QUONSMAS

I just got three wonderful gifts from JenettSilver:
--Some delicious-looking dark chocolate
--An equally delicious looking Regency romance novel
--Adorable doggy magnets

I love it! The holidays are off to a great start!
posted by zeusianfog at 4:31 PM on December 4, 2019 [1 favorite]

I have been outrageously spoilt by Raccoon409! Thank you so much, I love all of it. Stroopwaffels are delicious and one of my very favorite treats! The other things look wonderful as well (strange European chocolates)! and I am delighted to have been your recipient. Thank you again!
posted by PearlRose at 5:09 PM on December 4, 2019 [4 favorites]

According to USPS my quonsee's package was delivered at 12:35pm (their time? my time? UNCLEAR) today!!
posted by brook horse at 5:09 PM on December 4, 2019 [1 favorite]

What a treat to come home to a treat today! I am super excited to learn that such a thing as a Gooey Butter Cake exists and is a St. Louis specialty with a fun history - thank you, anonymous Quonsar! I can't wait to try the gooey caramel goodness, and I can't believe this is only "part 1 of 2" of my Quonsmas gift!
posted by Dibbery at 5:54 PM on December 4, 2019 [4 favorites]

Oh, reading up the thread, jzb must be responsible for my gooey goodness! Thank you, jzb!
posted by Dibbery at 6:00 PM on December 4, 2019 [1 favorite]

Yes, indeed! I hope you enjoy it. I can’t get enough when I’m back in St. Louis, but it’s better for my waistline that it’s not often... happy Quonsmas!
posted by jzb at 7:35 PM on December 4, 2019

It did come last night, Two unicycles and some duct tape! And thank you so much for the perfect quonsmas gift - drinking lovely tea now and I lighted the balsam fir candle last night. Looking forward to reading the Dickens Christmas ghost book - and the additional Dickensian/Victorian cards will be fun to decorate with!

Happy quonsmas!

Sent my quonsee's gift yesterday - so should be arriving soon!
posted by jilloftrades at 5:15 AM on December 5, 2019 [3 favorites]

Yay!! I received my MetaFilter Quonsar package from Homo neanderthalensis on Tuesday. Here's a photo! Goodies included: Sunflower flower pot, San Francisco City Guide Notebook, California & San Fran stickers, Milk lip balm (so soft!) , Better than Sex mascara, a California enamel pin, a gorgeous quilled card, and confetti cilantro seeds from their own garden!

They saw the picture of the sunflower I grew on Instagram from September and sent me the pot. The O Henry twist to this all is that I really got into gardening this year because of their blog. Now tell me there’s no such thing as magic.

Without dredging up details from other threads...Homo neanderthalensis, your positive posts and voice here are missed. Thank you for this gorgeous gift and I wish you all the light and happy news the world can offer you in 2020.
posted by kimberussell at 6:24 AM on December 5, 2019 [16 favorites]

Yaaaaay mollymillions I’m so glad you like it!! I meant to include a card but stupidly made it to the post office without. Have a lovely Quonsmas!
posted by orrnyereg at 7:00 AM on December 5, 2019 [1 favorite]

I just received my wonderful gifts from a mystery quonsar! Some delicious fruit snacks I will be hiding from my toddler, two minty teas to sample, and a SIGNIFICANT amount of polymer clay. I was just pondering decorating glass ball ornaments with clay and now I have wonderful snowflake colors. Thank you!
posted by brilliantine at 8:17 AM on December 5, 2019 [3 favorites]

Thank you, thank you Hardcore Poser for a truly delightful package of Quonsmas joy. It's been a rough couple of weeks, and so getting the parcel filled with cool, thoughtful, and useful things* was a real lift.

To my own Quonsee, I didn't mail your parcel until December 03**, but Canada Post says it will be delivered on Tuesday.

*A cute wineglass charm, inspiring post card, pretty desk calendar, handsome bookmark (Quonsmas Czars, if you're keeping track of animals of Quonsmas 2019, count in a debonair pig), amazing skulls colouring book, sewing notions, a very nifty book cover that doubles as a pencil case, a marvelous card holder/stand for my phone, put into use immediately, and a LOL Quonsmas card.
**First time I've been late for Quonsmas in 10 years! Mea maxima culpa!
posted by angiep at 8:29 AM on December 5, 2019 [3 favorites]

You're welcome, miserable-mild. I was too cheap to spring for tracking and regretted it immediately - before I even got back to my car. I know that the post office is amazingly efficient, but I was still anxiously awaiting confirmation here.

Hopefully all of my future quonsees will be as much fun to shop for. Your guidance was a pretty close match to the stuff I get excited about at art/craft sales/conventions but can't think of someone I know to give it to.
posted by stuart_s at 10:53 AM on December 5, 2019 [3 favorites]

You're welcome, angiep. BTW that card was super hard to make, what with the strategic placement of Post-It notes saying 'Quons' over 'Christmas' and all. And don't get me started on choosing a pen colour :)
Happy Quonsmas!
posted by Hardcore Poser at 11:45 AM on December 5, 2019 [2 favorites]

I have just received a glorious set of gifts from an anonymous quonsar: a perfectly wintry candle, a bear-themed beeswax sandwich wrap (which is exactly the kind of thing I covet and never buy myself), a cat-themed dish towel, and a possibly magical bird-themed Swedish dishcloth. The note says that the dishcloth "might seem like a weird thing to give," but I am very excited about it, and about how many kinds of kitchen animals they've managed to gift me with (there are dogs and cats on the card)! Thank you so much, anonymous quonsar! I love it all, and it all hits exactly my favorite balance of delightful and genuinely useful.

(my only anxiety now is about my quonsee--the tracking shows that the package was left at their front door on 11/29, so I'm hoping they're just waiting to open it!)
posted by dizziest at 2:38 PM on December 5, 2019 [2 favorites]

Thank you thereemix, I love my new ornament!
posted by ThePinkSuperhero at 3:38 PM on December 5, 2019 [4 favorites]

Tracking indicates my sent SQ shipment arrived in England last week, so yay for that!

My own perfect gift, from a so-far anonymous giver, came from robocop is bleeding’s shop. I love it so much. Once I drag a tree in here to help illuminate the dark weeks ahead I will re-wrap it to be re-delighted later, but until then I will keep it in sight to gaze at admiringly as I ponder cryptic mysteries and the miracle of Quonsmas.

Thank you to my Secret Quonsar, who somehow knows my arcane heart, and to the little elves who did (and continue to do) such an admirable job pulling everything together this year!
posted by obloquy at 3:56 PM on December 5, 2019 [2 favorites]

The Owl and the Pussycat made some tea
In a beautiful china cup
They took some honey and plenty of money
Wrapped up in a five-pound note
The Owl looked up to the stars above
And sang to their secret quonsar
O lovely thivaia! thivaia, my dear
What a thoughtful quonsar you are!
posted by drlith at 4:34 PM on December 5, 2019 [10 favorites]

Thank you sunset in snow country for all the wonderful desserts! I love the all the different flavors!
posted by obol at 5:47 PM on December 5, 2019 [2 favorites]

I'm not one to gush, HOWEVER, my gift is amazing and hit all my wants. Handmade crocheted black kitties, handmade unicorn card, a super cute black cat enamel pin, and the box was even covered with black kitties, and a little wood hanging unicorn with my name on it!!!! I'm shocked and amazed and so delighted. Thank you brookhorse!!!!!! I'm so happy and touched by your thoughtfulness.
posted by soakimbo at 6:41 PM on December 5, 2019 [5 favorites]

I'm so glad you like it soakimbo!!! Making the kitties and the card were great distractions from finals stress. And the black cats on the box are from a 2017 calendar that I KNEW I was saving for a good reason! :))
posted by brook horse at 7:15 PM on December 5, 2019 [2 favorites]

Ahhhh, Secret Quonsar, thank you so much! I got (part of 1 of 2) of my gift today, and I love it all so much! :D It was so beautifully wrapped, for one thing, opening it all was an absolute delight, as was reading each little note that went along with them. I derived an unholy amount of joy from the little jingle bells! And then the contents! So thoughtful, and a haul that makes me feel truly spoiled! I can't wait to try the teas, though I will do my best to ration them. The magnet by local artist Ray has a lovely, intricate design, and it'll fit in beautifully with my other magnets. And the baking supplies!! :D So many fun sprinkles I can't wait to use, and I'm already excited to give people cookies I make with those cookie cutters! I know the cactus and flamingo shapes will get a laugh out one of my friends who I send cookies to every year, and the snowflake and reindeer are welcome additions to my holiday cookie cutter collection.

Thank you again, dear Quonsar, you've really brightened my week! ♥ I will await part two with an already joyful heart!
posted by yasaman at 7:42 PM on December 5, 2019 [1 favorite]

I've gotten two out of three of my secret quonsar gifts from a mystery gifter! A subscription to Lady Churchill's Rosebud Wristlet and a copy of The Raven and the Reindeer - queer spec-fic storytelling! I'm very curious about the third one now...
posted by divabat at 7:50 PM on December 5, 2019 [1 favorite]

It’s alive!!! I found a gift hiding behind the cement block marking my parking spot. I'm not sure how long it had been hiding there. Thank you, Oomny, for the beautiful card, your secret message, the peanut butter chocolate, the foot warming rice bag, and especially, my first Marimo Mossball! I promise to take good care of Mary (I tend to be very literal) and I’ll try to come up with a more creative name (I’m open to suggestions!). Happy Holidays!
posted by kbar1 at 8:32 PM on December 5, 2019 [2 favorites]

So glad you like it! My mossball’s name is Momo, so I’m not sure I am any help with better names lol
posted by oomny at 8:41 PM on December 5, 2019 [2 favorites]

Yay!! I have been quonsed and it's all spot-on-- thank you, hansbrough. I love the cookbooks, and suspect my weekend will go straight toward one of the recipes for turning sweet potatoes into brownies! Also, extra thanks for the speckled pebbles now atop my shelf of beach-combed treasures and the adorable llama stuffy for my pupper-- she'll be at it the instant I finish typing this. Thank you again for such a happy surprise after a long and busy week, and a very merry Quonsmas to you, too!
posted by stardustbunny at 11:12 PM on December 5, 2019 [3 favorites]

Thanks pingzing!

I hope to read both books this weekend, but that's probably a pipe dream. Joyous Quonsar!
posted by DigDoug at 5:27 AM on December 6, 2019 [2 favorites]

Thanks to arcticwoman from a fellow knitter. She picked up on the "yaaaaaarn" part of my quonsing requests and I have a lovely luminous hank of sock yarn to chase the winter blues away, as well as decorative sticky flags for keeping place in a pattern! Who would have thought that arcticwoman doesn't like the cold? It's beautiful, and you are wonderful.
posted by Liesl at 6:16 AM on December 6, 2019 [2 favorites]

Another package showed up and gifted me delicious hot chocolate mixes, as well as a new Rite in the Rain notebook + pencils. The latter will get used on my rainy winter hikes, and the former will get used AFTER the rainy winter hikes, so this is pretty great! Thank you again, secret quonsar(s).
posted by curious nu at 6:41 AM on December 6, 2019 [1 favorite]

Oh for the love of all that's evil and unholy, obol are you freaking kidding me?

I can't even cope with the awesomeness here. There are TINY DOOM BUGGIES. The little ghosts GLOW IN THE DARK. You go to BOO-NIVERSITY.

I don't care what's on the dining room table. It's getting cleared off and we're playing this EVERY GODDAMM NIGHT.

Thank you so much!
posted by Katemonkey at 7:02 AM on December 6, 2019 [6 favorites]

I have been Quonsed by the amazing tesseractive! They sent me the most adorable, wonderful little Maileg mouse. I have named him Pierre. He has the sweetest little outfit on, complete with a cap . . . I'm utterly delighted.

Tesseractive, it's as if you'd known me for years -- this was a spot-on amazing gift! Seriously, I'm the sort of person who walks into boutique shops, ignores the clothing, and heads straight to the little stuffed toys.

Here's a photo of Pierre sitting amongst my holiday decorations in my office: https://flic.kr/p/2hVJVNj

Thank you so, so, so much!!!
posted by Annabelle74 at 7:37 AM on December 6, 2019 [9 favorites]

Thanks to all the Quonsmas Elves in the employ of RedOrGreen! They do a great job wrapping and a better job choosing gifts!

I was delighted by the book and the Hand Boiler (it's aready got pride of place amongst my various desk friends. My Vermont-born wife and daughter gave some serious side-eye to the hefty bottle of New York maple syrup, but I bet they'll get over it when I drizzle it all over some pancakes and/or french toast this weekend.

Thanks, and you've inspired me to finally get off my butt and get my gift in the mail, so my Quonsee thanks you too.
posted by Rock Steady at 8:44 AM on December 6, 2019 [6 favorites]

my outgoing gift arrived at Newark last night - I'm not sure if I'll be able to track it overseas once it's out of the US but its about to take its very first flight!!! And hopefully this means it arrives within the week.
posted by seemoorglass at 8:47 AM on December 6, 2019

I am derelict not only in thanking my own Quonsar, oceanjesse, for the excellent gift (of which more below) which arrived on my doorstep last week, but also in owning up to being the Quonsar to pjsky, our illustrious thread-starter! (I intended a gift note to be included with the package, so I promise the secrecy and mystique was entirely unintentional.)

I'm thrilled to have been gifted a fantastic-sounding recipe and some new-to-me ingredients to make it! What a swell gift idea, especially for someone (like me!) who is both trying to cut down on the having of stuff, and is always trying to expand my repertoire of interesting food-making skills. The recipe+ingredients gifting formula is definitely one I am going to steal and use myself! Many thanks, oceanjesse!

Even more bizarre, however, is that oceanjesse was my Quons-partner the first year I participated, and that despite us being (again!) in the "international" group, we (again!) ended up being able to hand-deliver the goods since we are basically neighbours. How neat!
posted by Dorinda at 9:08 AM on December 6, 2019 [3 favorites]

Thank you to my Minnesota elf beandip for delicious chocolates, which were consumed with, shall we say alacrity, and the darling little homemade bicornu now hanging from one of my kitchen cabinets!

The huckleberry jam awaits steaming waffles one cold morning. Merci buckets from NYC!

Sending hugs to all lovely mefites everywhere.... now off to post a box to my own quonsee...
posted by 6thsense at 9:27 AM on December 6, 2019 [2 favorites]

Part of my gift was shipped by the vendor, the card and a small homemade item mailed yesterday. The Monday-Tuesday stowstorm was a delaying factor. Therefore, I felt free to finally open my Quonsmas gift and will post a separate thank you.
posted by theora55 at 11:47 AM on December 6, 2019 [1 favorite]

I got a book from tigermoth. Suzanne McConnell and Kurt Vonnegut's Pity The Reader, very much my jam. This perfectly fits my details, including the note about the color of the book jacket (book jackets are not subject to color prohibitions). Thank you so much, tigermoth! I'm looking forward to reading it.

I'm terrible at effusive thank you's, but I genuinely value and am touched by the thought and care that has gone in to every quonsmas gift I've ever gotten, including this one. Quonsmas, qounzers, quonczars, quonsees, and elves are the fishpants ever!
posted by theora55 at 11:58 AM on December 6, 2019 [2 favorites]

I have been having SUCH a bad week. I've had Death Cough for over two weeks, which has been getting worse and worse. I've had absolutely zero energy. I've had over 90 papers that I haven't been able to brain hard enough to grade, have run out of half my classes while teaching to hack up a lung in the washroom, and have had to deal with academic dishonesty right at the end of the semester. My boss, with whom I have a great working relationship, suddenly got a job at another college and is leaving abruptly. And I wasn't drawn in the Fringe Festival lottery.

That is to say, I *really* needed a good Quonsing. And I have received it!

Thank you so much to Kevin Street, who somehow managed to discern that one of my/my husband's very favourite games to play is Codenames, and that we have a dearth of two-player games to play at home, and found the perfect match with Codenames: Duet! I'm delighted, and as soon as I recover and grade these papers (and finals), I will be overjoyed to play it.
posted by ilana at 1:36 PM on December 6, 2019 [3 favorites]

A giant Thank you to mostly vowels for the perfect gift of crunchy local snacks (saving to share with my nephew who also loves salty crunchy snacks) and many tiny delightful stickers from their own personal stash!!! Very exciting! Some of these will end up on some card club and holiday swap cards, and others on cookie exchange packages.

Thanks so much also to both the new and previous quonsmas organizers, I appreciate the time and effort it takes to wrangle everyone.
posted by tangaroo at 1:59 PM on December 6, 2019 [2 favorites]

I took the day off, it being my 50th birthday today, and my wife and I just came home from seeing Knives Out, which was excellent and also for some reason had a couple of scenes filmed in my town that I didn't know about. I'm in a movie, enjoying myself and... hey, there's my train station! I live in a dumb little suburb known for its malls and its army research lab, they don't usually film stuff here.

There was some mail waiting for me, two packages from my secret Quonsar, a Mr. DigDoug, who if you're playing along at home you'll recall was my SQ recipient a couple of years back.

Mr. D. sent me a couple of things his home town is known for, a graphic biography of Mohamed Ali, and a couple of wood billets from the Louisville Slugger factory! I have a used lathe waiting for me at a friend's house, I just have to go pick it up, so one of these days these billets will either become baseball bats or toothpicks, depending on how skilled I am when I turn them. I will probably wait until I'm skilled enough to make bats. I already have toothpicks.

Thank you, DigDoug! These are some super thoughtful gifts and I hope to one day do these billets proud! Maybe next year my Quonsee will be a baseball fan...
posted by bondcliff at 2:28 PM on December 6, 2019 [7 favorites]

I have been thoroughly and wonderfully quonsed by the amazing bunnysquirrel! They sent me an absolutely adorable book cover that I'm looking forward to using on all the books that just get thrown willy-nilly in my totebag (made by a local-to-them artist), and their favorite game (Quiddler), which I see is made by the same group that makes one of *my* favorite games (Set), which I am excited to play as soon as I am done with school in SEVEN DAYS. And everything was wrapped in orange, my favorite color! And there was a card with a lovely message! Thank you, bunnysquirrel, for making my fourth quonsar an amazing one.
posted by okayokayigive at 2:44 PM on December 6, 2019 [3 favorites]

It's been a pretty snowy week here in Northern New England. My evening commute was kind of a mess today, so it was very nice to get safely home and find my wonderful Quonsmas gifts from lydhre (consisting of some yummy snacks and a book that's been on my to-read list that I hadn't gotten around to buying yet).

Thanks so much for a delightful quonsing lydhre, and a merry quonsmas to all!
posted by OntologicalPuppy at 2:48 PM on December 6, 2019 [2 favorites]

I've just opened the most delightful package full of quonsmas cheer from MysticMCJ! I received a book full of most excellent puns from Frida Clements, truly the master of animal puns of our time (LOVE all her work); chip bag clips that look like actual chips (!); a very cool feminist button; a spoon in the shape of an ostrich that will be taking up immediate residence in my sugar canister for my morning tea to make me smile every morning; a beautiful magnet in the shape of one of my favorite creatures, the hummingbird; and an incredibly thoughtful and sweet note contained within a beautiful letterpress card with another hummingbird, specifically an Anna's hummingbird, which is the type of hummingbird local to my area and that I see at my feeder most mornings while making my aforementioned tea. MysticMCJ, thank you so much - this was absolute perfection for me and I appreciate all the detail and thought you put into this amazingly on-point gift. Thank you!!

And I just saw my recipient stardustbunny's post as well - yay! So glad you enjoyed everything!

I love quonsmas. Thank you organizers and everyone who participates in this tradition of merriment!!
posted by hansbrough at 5:02 PM on December 6, 2019 [4 favorites]

I’m so excited that a candy-cane wrapped package from soakimbo arrived - I’m waiting til my apartment is tidier and more welcoming of a surprise before opening it, but am gleeful it is here!
posted by beccasaurus at 5:33 PM on December 6, 2019 [1 favorite]

Big thanks to XtineHutch for the 6-button Sega Genesis Mini controller she sent me. Now I can play games like Street Fighter II and Comix Zone with the correct number of buttons! It's going to be a fun holiday vacation for sure this year.
posted by Servo5678 at 6:37 PM on December 6, 2019 [1 favorite]

For those who are on Instagram, check out or follow #secretquonsar and post your pictures there too! If you're so inclined. One of the few highly specific hashtags I follow that doesn't collect other mysterious cruft that I wasn't looking for (#metafilter, I'm looking at you.)
posted by Secretariat at 7:00 PM on December 6, 2019 [3 favorites]

I came home today to a package that contained a box wrapped in cat wrapping paper, and inside was a charming card, a set of delightful rubber stamps of woodland plants and animals, an "I love Bangor" button, and a beautiful canvas bag with a Maine-themed graphic that is definitely going to become my D&D dice bag now. Thank you so much, Vectorcon Systems, for a wonderful Quonsmas gift! I love it all!
posted by capricorn at 7:07 PM on December 6, 2019 [5 favorites]

tangaroo I'm so glad the box arrived!!

Thank you PearlRose so much for the pencils and candles! Love the cedar-scented candles, you totally aced the woodsy/vaguely masculine/wintry smell aesthetic I've been channeling this year, and I am looking forward to adding the pencils to my stash (especially the snail ones, one of my top 5 animals!)

Happy Quonsmas to all!
posted by mostly vowels at 7:07 PM on December 6, 2019 [3 favorites]

First of all I am so glad you love your gifts kimberussel and I am having a good chortle over the O'henry-ness of the sunflower serendipity! I hope the cilantro seeds sprout in spring for you, and that I didn't overstep with the make-up. I wear it so seldom but when I used to- that mascara was the bomb.

Now, as some of you may be aware, I've had a bit of a week. So to come home yesterday to a big non-descript package from Arkansas was just about the best thing ever. And what a haul! The wonderful box really nailed it too! I got a wonderfully quirky t-shirt from a local Little Rock artist, a cool heart sticker, a cute pencil, a book about Lucy, my favorite pre-neanderthal hominoid, and an awesome little skull planter! The planter itself has no drainage so I'm going to have to be creative with what I put in there. I'm thinking for now I'm going to use it as a vessel for damp sphagnum moss to try and sprout one of my tea seeds. (Camellia sinensis) This was an amazing haul and now I know my next bus read for the non-fiction club XD
posted by Homo neanderthalensis at 7:21 PM on December 6, 2019 [8 favorites]

I didn't realize I was supposed to post to say I mailed my gift! But! I mailed it on Dec 2 and my quonsee should have it soon.

Also, I was most wonderfully quonsed by kbar1, who sent me one of my most favorite luxuries, a gift box from LUSH with an iridescent glittery body wash and an amazing smelling soap. Thank you so much for the joy and the perfect self-care items, and have a beautiful holiday!!
posted by fairlynearlyready at 7:32 PM on December 6, 2019 [3 favorites]

Merry Quons to me, I got tea! Granville tea that tastes of dessert. Thank you Orange Pamplemousse, your name is two of my favorite things.
posted by Freyja at 7:35 PM on December 6, 2019 [3 favorites]

I have received a delightful gift from halcyonday!

The crocheted monkey they sent me some years back is still very much in the custody of the small child.
The packaging (a box with don't panic on it in large friendly letters) is still prominently displayed on my book shelf.

But this year their gift will not be co-opted by a child. It will be eaten om no nom.

They have correctly divined my love of sausages, and have sent me a tremendously exciting kit with which to make my own giant cumberland sausage!
It's basically what if ballon animals, but then you could eat them! Which I will.
None for the crows, all for me!

I'm very excited to make some sausages!!!
posted by Just this guy, y'know at 5:34 AM on December 7, 2019 [8 favorites]

There was a soggy yellow envelope waiting for me when I got home last night, and inside was a Quonsmas surprise for me! Thank you DrMew for the lovely puerh tea cake! I drink tea daily and this will certainly find a place in my rotation. Can't wait to try it! A very joyous Quonsmas to all!
posted by amelliferae at 9:29 AM on December 7, 2019 [2 favorites]

Thank you, unreasonable, for the charming handmade book, pocket calipers, and local paper.
posted by janell at 9:52 AM on December 7, 2019 [4 favorites]

OK I need to apologize for being very delinquent on sending my gift but now it is OUT the DOOR with a delivery date of Dec. 10. I am so sorry, but I will note that my whole family got the stomach flu over Thanksgiving and all the best laid plans were waylaid.

Someone who was NOT a delinquonsar is okayokayigive, who sent me a nicely funky soap and flowerly planner stickers and cool paperweight-like thumbtacks. Thank you!!
posted by jeoc at 9:56 AM on December 7, 2019 [1 favorite]

I received such perfect gifts!! Thank you notes and postcards for book lovers (both beautiful!) and a pink rope for my Jamie pup. Thank you so much chura chura! I love it all!
posted by bookworm4125 at 10:00 AM on December 7, 2019 [4 favorites]

Hooray! Happy Quonsmas to you and yours!
posted by ChuraChura at 11:52 AM on December 7, 2019 [2 favorites]

Arg!! Amazon says my gifts were delivered this past Monday but no word from my quonsee! I usually shop locally and then wrap and ship a gift but I just ran out of time and energy this year. I hope Amazon didn’t screw it up!
posted by Weeping_angel at 11:59 AM on December 7, 2019 [1 favorite]

THANK YOU invokeuse!!

You really hit the nail on the head, there were sounds emitted that I may or may not admit to.

I have never heard of this type of tea before (Assam Monipur), but it smells amazing, so I think the shop assistant did great by your choice. The cat stickers are just the best, and the buttons already have homes on my work backpack.

THANK YOU again!
posted by RhysPenbras at 12:25 PM on December 7, 2019 [3 favorites]

I was delighted to open a box full of delicious jams and "sprankles" as well as "The Rogues Game" - what seems like it will be an exciting and unusual novel, and seems to be very much the sort of thing I'll enjoy but would have never found on my own.

The jams though - Oh my. We immediately dug into both of them, a Strawberry rhubarb as well as a peach cobbler jam. Strawberry rhubarb is one of my favorite flavor combinations, and I seem to always forget that until I have it again - this jam is perhaps the best one I've had ever, and I do NOT say that lightly. The peach cobbler jam is also excellent. And the "sprankles" - a secret blend of sprinkles and other goodies - are going to make their way into every breakfast we have for a while, I think.

Thank you epj, for putting together such a good package! Winter and the holidays in general is always a hard time for me, and SQ is one of the things I really look forward to - Thanks for ensuring it was a great one.
posted by MysticMCJ at 12:32 PM on December 7, 2019 [3 favorites]

MysticMCJ, thank you so much for the positive Quons feedback, especially on the jams!! A friend made them, and I will pass your praise on! So happy you’re happy!
posted by epj at 12:48 PM on December 7, 2019 [1 favorite]

I'm so glad you like the gifts, RhysPenbras! I had a lot of fun picking things out for you.

And it's now my turn to thank NorthernLite for their gifts! I have a ton of grading to do in the next few days, so the chocolate will definitely help that - and I hope I can use some of the stickers you sent along, too (but, uh, that one might be up to how the students do). I'm excited to try out the spa stuff, too!

Thanks for a happy Quonsmas, y'all.
posted by invokeuse at 12:57 PM on December 7, 2019 [3 favorites]

Hmmm...gift was delivered Wednesday. Hoping it arrived into the right hands.
posted by dbmcd at 1:09 PM on December 7, 2019

Holy cow, I have been quonsed, and most excellently, too! Dear twicketface, thank you so, so, so much for my serious haul of Wisconsin CHEESE!!! My daughters were watching me unbox your gift almost as eagerly as I, and as I pulled out slab after slab they couldn’t believe there was still MORE. Including a new one I’ve never heard of and can’t wait to try. I am having a big party on Saturday and I can’t wait to put them all out and tell everyone they’re from the internet :)))

Thank you again so much - what a treat! Happy Quonsmas!!
posted by widdershins at 2:08 PM on December 7, 2019 [2 favorites]

Not_the_water, thank you so much for an epic quonsing! I received a great old bound compilation of some Harpers Magazines from 1891, a book about trails and humans and nature, which looks fascinating, and some goat’s milk soap that smells heavenly, plus two little salt scrubs that will be perfect for the winter. I am so happy! I put a couple of photos here on Instagram .
posted by PussKillian at 2:28 PM on December 7, 2019 [3 favorites]

So glad you liked them, okayokayigive! I also love Set, and I'm glad I didn't end up sending you a duplicate game. Best of luck in your last week of school! :)

My thanks go to fairlynearlyready, who really hit the mark with supplies for three! of my hobbies, an inspiring list of her plans for the festive season, AND a hand-poured candle made with positive intentions just for me, which I will save to burn on solstice in lieu of a yule log. <3

A very merry quonsmas to everyone!
posted by bunnysquirrel at 2:37 PM on December 7, 2019 [6 favorites]

yasaman is a genius! Thank you deeply for such a thoughtful and welcome gift. So many kinds of chocolate with stuff I have never seen before. Friends, did you know that there was vanilla salt?? That’s in dark chocolate with figs. Milk chocolate with nougat and honey and diamond salt from Cashmere! Dark chocolate with shortbread and Guerande sea salt! There was also an assortment of Hachez chocolates of different origins and percentages. As if that weren’t decadent enough, she added two Korean face masks... the day after I’d considered buying that exact kind for myself and decided to wait until after the holidays. The postcard from Istanbul was also a treat but I will refrain from eating it. It was all wrapped in individual little vintage xmas design packets that I carefully opened so I could reuse them and also look cool :)

Thank you to everyone who puts in the work to make this possible every year!!
posted by mrcrow at 3:29 PM on December 7, 2019 [3 favorites]

Yay, glad you like it, mrcrow! :D I always get a kick out of fancy chocolates, and Dolfin makes some of my favorite ridiculous decadent chocolate. Hope you enjoy treating yourself with the face masks and the chocolate, possibly at the same time...?? Up to you! The point is, treat yourself! :D
posted by yasaman at 4:36 PM on December 7, 2019 [2 favorites]

I wish there was video of me opening my Quonsmas gift. ("Oooh myyy gaaawwd," I squealed.)

Amelliferae had sent a note earlier that she'd found something relevant to my interests.

And people, yes, it is a piece of art featuring "The Good Place's" Eleanor and Michael standing in front of her house. Googling reveals it is by a gentleman who creates small fan art pieces in oils.

(BTW Fun fact, Amelliferae, Kristen Bell grew up in a house a few miles from where I lived for a long time.)

Anyway, this week was not without stress. So how great to end it with such a cute gift!

Amelliferae is going to The Good Place!
posted by NorthernLite at 5:18 PM on December 7, 2019 [5 favorites]

Sarcasticah sent me the most amazing smelling coffee (seriously, I’m not kidding how good it smells) and some delicious spicy honey that I ate on homemade biscuits and almost died with joy. Thank you!
posted by not_the_water at 6:15 PM on December 7, 2019 [3 favorites]

A big thanks to skycrashesdown, a book, candy, calendar, what else could I ask for! This is a joyful quonsar season indeed
posted by waviolet at 6:30 PM on December 7, 2019 [3 favorites]

Matildatakesovertheworld, well played! I am still smiling at the goopy putty being and making out a grocery list to try some of Snoop’s favorite recipes ( the jerk chicken will be the first). Thank you so much and I am very glad you had fun too!
posted by ZenMajek at 6:53 PM on December 7, 2019 [3 favorites]

Thank you to EmpressCallipygos for a very cool NYC cookbook (by the recently and too-soon departed Molly O'Neill) featuring recipes and culinary history from a mixture of gourmet restaurants, local fixtures, and neighborhood chefs!
posted by jedicus at 7:05 PM on December 7, 2019 [4 favorites]

brilliantine,

That was from me!
I am so glad you like it!
Joyful Quonsmas!
posted by Mister Moofoo at 7:23 PM on December 7, 2019 [2 favorites]

Update! You guys!! I hadn't realized I actually received another package - it came earlier and I had a tidying flurry due to visiting family earlier this week and shoved the envelope in a closet and just now realized it was a SQ. MysticMCJ has ALSO given me a wonderful book on creativity that I have wanted very much since I first learned of its existence. Thank you MysticMCJ for the quons that keeps on quonsing!!!
posted by hansbrough at 8:38 PM on December 7, 2019 [5 favorites]

I have a missed delivery slip for a package that I am 99% sure is from my quonsar, but I need to make sure that one of my housemates will be around to receive before I reschedule the delivery. Will do that ASAP and report back.

Meanwhile, the main part of my gift should arrive at its destination on Monday.
posted by ActionPopulated at 8:42 PM on December 7, 2019 [2 favorites]

Thank you so much to my wonderful secret quonsar Mrs. Rattery! Your lovely note warmed my heart as much as the beautiful gifts. I am absolutely in love with the bird, Bug and home. What a nice thing to come home to this evening. I love this tradition and this community!
posted by queensissy at 9:50 PM on December 7, 2019 [3 favorites]

Aw, bunnysquirrel, I'm so glad you liked everything! I had a lot of fun putting your package together. :) Happy quonsmas and a happy new year!
posted by fairlynearlyready at 11:03 PM on December 7, 2019 [2 favorites]

I came home yesterday to a very thoughtful package from my Quonsar LeftMyHeartInSanFrancisco yesterday. It contained some toys and treats for my cat Max, some delicious chocolates, and some handwritten recipes which were a really nice touch. I'm looking forward to trying the recipes.

Max was especially pleased and immediately started attacking one of the adorable cat nip toys. Pictures here. Thank you so much it was a really thoughtful package and it made my day!
posted by SpaceWarp13 at 4:53 AM on December 8, 2019 [4 favorites]

I have been Quonsed! No screen name, so thank you kind real person for the shrub (so tasty). And paperbacks are a great idea for packing material. I've been laid up at home with back pain and it made my day to get a box in the mail.
posted by esoterrica at 9:11 AM on December 8, 2019 [2 favorites]

Oh yay ZenMajek, I'm so glad you liked it all!
posted by matildatakesovertheworld at 10:40 AM on December 8, 2019 [1 favorite]

A mystery package arrived, enclosing loads of awesome varieties of tea and hand creams!! Really fabulous, this could last me for quite a while while I explore different flavours!!! Thank you, dear secret Quonsar :)
posted by rozaine at 11:46 AM on December 8, 2019 [2 favorites]

Thank you, EndsofInvention, for the lovely card and excellent assortment of British snacks.

It's amazing how something so simple can be so meaningful. Cheers!
posted by lord_wolf at 1:08 PM on December 8, 2019 [2 favorites]

Glad you liked it, lord_wolf! I had fun trying to choose a representative sample of British snacks and candy. Hope you enjoy them.
posted by EndsOfInvention at 4:05 PM on December 8, 2019 [1 favorite]

USPS tracking says gift was dropped off at my quonsee's address on Dec. 2 - hope it got picked up safely!

> According to USPS my quonsee's package was delivered at 12:35pm (their time? my time? UNCLEAR)

I believe the time stamps are in the time local to the place at the time of the scan, so that would have been their time.
posted by rangefinder 1.4 at 1:37 AM on December 9, 2019 [1 favorite]

You guys!! Monster_Zero sent me the most awesome package from Manitoba! The most heavenly smelling/tasting tea and a little pot of creamy honey. It's absolutely the best pick-me-up. Thank you so much!
posted by orrnyereg at 5:47 AM on December 9, 2019 [3 favorites]

As I opened my door to leave for work this morning, I nearly stumbled over my Secret Quonsar package! I was running late so didn't get a chance to open it yet, but I know it's waiting for me at home and I'm super excited.
posted by Sparky Buttons at 6:42 AM on December 9, 2019 [1 favorite]

RhysPenbras has made my day with Quonsmas gifts for me and my beloved kitty. Although she will probably cherish the box just as much! Thank you from both of us!
posted by wellred at 8:13 AM on December 9, 2019 [1 favorite]

I am Quonse! Have done Quonsing and been Quonsee!

Thank you so much erloteiel! I will sip my new tea and enjoy sandalwood aromas from my new soy candle, and fondly remember my short time living in Austin. It's a neat town, I am glad to keep connections there old and new.

epj, I wish you joy in reading Bujold for the first time, and I hope you like the Rachel Fellman book as much as I did. Since I am a re-reader, it's not that often I find a new book to enthusiastically recommend.

May the Quonsmas spirit animate us all through the end of the year and beyond.
posted by Lawn Beaver at 10:14 AM on December 9, 2019 [2 favorites]

You're very welcome, orrnyereg! Now you know why I'd sent people to that store in lieu of a properly touristy place :)
Happy Quonsmas!
posted by Monster_Zero at 11:30 AM on December 9, 2019 [2 favorites]

Many thanks to astapasta24 for the intriguing enigma puzzle and the tin of tasty rice-crispy treats.
posted by zinon at 11:55 AM on December 9, 2019 [2 favorites]

A very happy thank-you to my secret quonsar! The "I do all my own (mechanical engineering) stunts" tee-shirt is perfect for me. May good fortune smile upon you all year long!
posted by coppertop at 12:22 PM on December 9, 2019 [2 favorites]

my tracking number works outside of the US, and the package is now in its intended country! oh, the suspense!!
posted by seemoorglass at 1:23 PM on December 9, 2019

Oh! This is so cool! I got a jar of beautiful-looking raw honey, a jar of smokey maple mustard, and a package of garlic-chive pappardelle pasta. I am very excited to try each one. Very, very cool stuff.

Thank you so much, Seed Stitch. You really made my day. :)
posted by veggieboy at 1:51 PM on December 9, 2019 [2 favorites]

I was quonsed the other day! I worked all day and then came home late at night to find a lovely package of delicious chocolates from triage_lazarus! Thank you, triage_lazarus (I also adore your user name)!

They’re all unlabeled so it’s like a delicious surprise every time I eat one. I’ve had chocolate covered Oreos, chocolate covered graham crackers, and a chocolate covered nutterbutter so far. Everything is SO good that I’m sad when I’m done eating it because it’s gone now, but then I eat another thing and it’s also SO GOOD!

Happy Quonsar everyone!
posted by Weeping_angel at 2:30 PM on December 9, 2019 [1 favorite]

Thank you thank you thank you to my SQ, bq!!! Came home today to find a gorgeous pop up poinsettia card, a scrumptious looking jar of homemade mango jam that may seriously change my dinner plans for tomorrow, and a beautiful water bottle from a NA craft fair. bq, you took my limited/vague direction (something local to you or that you made) and knocked it out of the park. I am pleased as punch and grinning from ear to ear! the happiness
posted by spinturtle at 3:47 PM on December 9, 2019 [3 favorites]

Thank you so much, Firei ! I am set to master the art of tiny pies with these tiny pie plates and a Hoosier Mama Pie cookbook! I'm so delighted! Thank you!!
posted by Sparky Buttons at 3:51 PM on December 9, 2019 [3 favorites]

Thank you, doublenelson! Your Secret Quonsar gift came today, and it's much appreciated. Nothin' says Christmas better than a big bunch of books! Perfect for spending time with when it's too cold to go outside. Especially the Arthur C Clarke collection, that's going to be a lot of fun to read.
posted by Kevin Street at 4:10 PM on December 9, 2019 [2 favorites]

Ohmigosh I'm so excited it's my first Quonsmas!

I open the box and inside is packing material and another box. Ooh, might be fragile... inside the next box is more packing material and bubble wrap... guess I better unroll it carefully... looks as if it's red and kind of cylindrical... unroll some more... hmm, is it a... tiny vase made of scales? Yes!

Minervous, thank you! This is the sort of object where every time you look at it you go "what" and that's pretty much my favourite kind of object. And local to you, too! I'm tickled pink.
posted by inexorably_forward at 4:13 PM on December 9, 2019 [3 favorites]

Final got home to open my Quonsmas package! The demon that lives in the air sent an absolutely amazing yarn bowl and skein of the most beautiful Malabrigo sock yarn.

Thank you so, so much! I have a perfect sock pattern all queued up on Ravelry for the yarn, and a pair already in progress for the bowl, so this couldn't have come at a better time. 💙
posted by minsies at 4:19 PM on December 9, 2019 [7 favorites]

Just cracked open a box of delicious treats from Rock Steady. Everything is so good!! Thank you so much!

Also taking suggestions on what to eat hot pepper jelly with.
posted by griphus at 4:28 PM on December 9, 2019 [2 favorites]

According to tracking, my Quonsee should get their gift on Thursday.
posted by SisterHavana at 4:29 PM on December 9, 2019

How can anyone not delight over unexpected mail from the Yukon? I mean, Jeezum Crow.

V. V., as a fan of the hyper-local, I am very happy. The shirt pairs well with the "Girls Rock Regina" T-shirt I got my daughter last year. And I can't wait to toss back a couple cat treats and watch your klondike-ific film with my 3 felines. Very well done. I mean, not to disturb you, but I've already plotted a driving route to your city that takes me through a string of Canadian towns I have relatives in (Hamilton, North Bay, Sudbury, maybe Edmonton?). Do you think I can get a shift at the radio station?
posted by baseballpajamas at 4:31 PM on December 9, 2019 [2 favorites]

Oh my gosh, jilloftrades got me the most awesome gifts! A crochet kit to make amigurumi animals, organic English Breakfast tea, and an I ❤️ NY shot glass! Everything was wrapped so nicely and had a lovely card! I couldn’t stop smiling all night! Thanks so much!
posted by jet_pack_in_a_can at 5:28 PM on December 9, 2019 [3 favorites]

OK! I both sent my gift off, (it'll be there post haste, Mefi friend!), AND received my present from my secret quonsar down south! I'm waiting until my partner arrives home so we can open it together, but I'm so excited! Thank you-s will be forthcoming!
posted by but no cigar at 5:39 PM on December 9, 2019 [1 favorite]

I confess I received and opened my package this morning, but I did not have time to post about it as I was on the way to my defend my master's thesis! My logic was I did not want to be distracted by the excited curiosity of wondering what was inside. It was the right choice, because it was just the mood boost I needed to quell my nerves! (I passed, with flying colors. :))

Inside were some beautifully wrapped books, an adorable card, a bookmark, and an NYC sticker! Snaw, I'm so touched that you sought out that specific edition of The Enchanted Castle for me. That was the version I grew up on at my childhood library, so that green border and those specific illustrations have been as much a part of the story as the text, for me. I actually didn't fully register the end of the sentence and immediately started unwrapping one of the books (partially in confusion, because I know the size of that book so well and I was PRETTY sure it was too small) before my brain caught up with me, haha. A tragedy indeed, but I hope your partner doesn't feel too bad, because I was not at all disappointed with the replacements!

After linking my Goodreads I had a thought along the lines of, "Huh, picking something from my to-read list is going to be real hit or miss, since I put books on there if I have even the vaguest interest in their premise and sometimes don't read more than the tags and first sentence or two..." And yet somehow you managed to pick two books I am absolutely excited about reading! I've been meaning to get around to Magic for Beginners for a while now! I admit I completely forgot ever putting Silver in the Wood on my to-read list (as happens, when there are over 1600 books on it), but I immediately looked it up on Goodreads and went, "Ah, of course. That's exactly the kind of book I would have put on my to-read list. Good job, me." Queer fae is exactly what I'm the mood for right now, I might even recommend it for our next LGBT book club as a novella would be perfect over the busy holiday!

Thank you so much, what a delightful and perfect first Quonsmas!! And thanks for the tip about Thrift Books, I will check them out to see if I can get that edition for myself, with hopefully no recycling this time. ;)
posted by brook horse at 5:54 PM on December 9, 2019 [6 favorites]

Just got another surprise in the mail, when part 2 (3?) of my present from DigDoug arrived. A mini Red Sox baseball bat! Quonsar has been very good to me this year.
posted by bondcliff at 6:04 PM on December 9, 2019 [4 favorites]

Jenc thank you! Your box was delightful, the chocolate is most welcome, the book pad has been given a place on my desk for my next read, you found cookies cutters I did not have and am excited about using, and the cute card is on the mantel. And everything was wrapped so nicely!

What I wish though is that I had recorded myself seeing the tiny whisk. I couldn't stop laughing, even before I opened the note I knew what post you were referring too. It absolutely made my day to triumphantly hold it and know that soon I will have to satisfaction of whisking a tiny amount with it.

Thank you!
posted by lepus at 6:15 PM on December 9, 2019 [4 favorites]

brook horse - Congratulations on defending your thesis!!!

I'm so glad you're pleased with my replacement selections (I don't know how he thought that a gift wrapped book was recycling, but evidently I left it in a confusing spot)! I really loved Magic for Beginners, so I hope you enjoy it too. I have to confess to choosing Silver in the Wood by comparing your reading list to the Strand's featured tables, so it's largely to their credit.

Also, I don't know how I didn't know about Thrift Books until I started hunting for The Enchanted Castle and I'm sorely tempted to buy my whole reading list from them even though I have access to a great library system. They also have an adorable-looking older book, A Cat Called Cindy, that was (sadly) above the Secret Quonsar dollar limit but may be of interest to you.
posted by snaw at 7:26 PM on December 9, 2019 [2 favorites]

Thank you to EmpressCallipygos for a very cool NYC cookbook

You're most welcome! It's been a longtime favorite (like in the note I wrote you).

Re-affirming the suggestion to try the Brooklyn Blackout cake. I've been thinking of playing with the recipe myself to update it (maybe a coffee flavored filling?)
posted by EmpressCallipygos at 4:06 AM on December 10, 2019 [1 favorite]

I mailed my secret quonsar gift a couple of weeks ago -- my quonsee said in his sign-up that it will likely arrive in 2020 so hopefully it will arrive earlier than that.

Yesterday I received an abundant box of goodies from sweetpotato! I'm excited to try the tea and candy, look forward to writing in my new notebook with my cool new pen, and enjoyed the handmade neck warmer this morning during my chilly commute to work. The card made me laugh and the message inside was very kind.

Photos:
Excellent presents
Selfie with warm generosity

Thank you so much, sweetpotato!
posted by wicked_sassy at 5:23 AM on December 10, 2019 [4 favorites]

I received my gift from seawallrunner yesterday. Thank you for the delicious-sounding teas and chocolates - and so beautifully wrapped too!
posted by toby_ann at 6:34 AM on December 10, 2019 [2 favorites]

Alas, I didn't link my pictures correctly! Here is the bounty of gifts.
posted by wicked_sassy at 8:19 AM on December 10, 2019 [3 favorites]

Also taking suggestions on what to eat hot pepper jelly with.

Get a block of cream cheese. Dump the jar of pepper jelly on top of the cream cheese. Eat with ritz crackers. Yum!
posted by Weeping_angel at 12:00 PM on December 10, 2019 [5 favorites]

Quonsmas synchronicity!

I was headed out the door to pick up some more brown sugar for the cookies I'm baking for the MeFi cookie swap when I noticed a small package in the hallway.

Somewhat mysteriously, the package was sealed with a bold green and white bumper sticker urging me to "EAT BERTHA'S MUSSELS."

I couldn't resist and opened it up right away. My anonymous Quonsar hadn't sent me any mussels, but had placed a treasure trove of surprises nestled in festive, sparkly tissue paper. There were the Cutest Christmas Socks ever -- two friendly looking monsters carrying gifts under a spring of mistletoe. There was an Equal Exchange (great organization, BTW) Very Dark chocolate bar. There was a pack of Old Bay Seasoning playing cards. There was an Extravagant jar of pure Spanish saffron. And there was nine.( count 'em, 9) EAT BERTHA'S MUSSELS bumper stickers. I'm getting hungry just listing all these treasures.

This was a most delightful and generous gift. Thank you, dear anonymous Quonsar.
posted by LeftMyHeartInSanFrancisco at 12:34 PM on December 10, 2019 [4 favorites]

My Quonsee andree (rhyme it if you want) sent me a lovely thank-you message, so I can say that my gift has been received.
posted by ilana at 1:54 PM on December 10, 2019 [1 favorite]

Quonczars, is someone checking the email address? I’ve sent a few emails (replied to the one that notified me of my quonsee) and haven’t received a response. Since I’ve been delayed in sending my gift, I want to make sure the recipient has been notified!
posted by ocherdraco at 2:32 PM on December 10, 2019

My friends, zoetrope made all of my Quonsmas dreams come true! I was thrilled to find a box full of Quonsmas cheer on my doorstep after a particularly long day. What treasures awaited me? A cheery postcard, delicious peach jam, (I has some on my toast this morning. What a lovely way to start my day!), not one but THREE different types of Goo Goo Clusters, and a whole tin of Hot Chicken rub; be still my spice-loving heart (I promise to treat it with respect, zoetrope)! Everything is local and fantastic. Thank you so much, zoetrope, for your thoughtful gifts, and a merry Quonsmas to all! Behold!
posted by but no cigar at 2:33 PM on December 10, 2019 [5 favorites]

Thank you so much, Laura! I came home today with a delightful surprise in the mail containing two beautifully wrapped books. As a SF fan who wanted to read more fantasy and SF books by women writers, I can't wait to start reading Jewelle Gomez's The Gilda Stories and Helen S. Wright's A Matter of Oaths! I got so excited I started spamming my non-fantasy/SF-reading family and friends about my Quonsar presents!!

This was my first Quonsmas, and I can't wait to participate again next year :) Happy Quonsmas, everyone!
posted by postmortemsalmon at 2:44 PM on December 10, 2019 [5 favorites]

Hey ocherdraco! Hmmm... I just doublechecked and I haven't seen any emails come in from you. We're using the gmail address for the exchange, secretquonsarswap. I'm online all evening so send away!

(And that goes for anyone who wants to send their quonsee a cheerful alert that it's coming, and soon!)
posted by mochapickle at 5:56 PM on December 10, 2019 [2 favorites]

Hi ocherdraco, yes, I saw that! I just sent you an email reply. =) I'm the only one that's checking the @julen.com address, but I did see your messages, and thank you for the updates! Apologies for not responding back, I'll do a better job on that (and thank you to others who have done the same and for your patience).
posted by curious nu at 7:02 PM on December 10, 2019 [2 favorites]

Just unwrapped my gift. Sat in a nice presentation box, an iron one piece corkscrew (self-made?) and an intriguing green suede wallet with leather wrap. Unravelled that and thought through the pieces, its a steel, flint stones and other bits to light fires. An inspired and imaginative choice that is very welcome. The only shame was I had just lit a fire before remembering the package in the car. Will definitely be doing some firestarting. Great present choice, something I would never have thought of myself but am super pleased to have. Lovely printed card to go with the bundle. The credit and thanks go to Gilgongo. Its very much appreciated!

(Its also made me think I need to up my game re gifting. Someone around the world will benefit from this excellent attention to detail.)
posted by biffa at 12:19 PM on December 11, 2019 [5 favorites]

So um I just sent out my Quonsee's gift today. It's supposed to arrive tomorrow, but I'm thinking Friday is more likely this time of year. My apologies, Quonsee!

Meanwhile, I received a lovely package full of various fabulous sugar things, courtesy of mrcrow! I think I've never seen so many gummies in one place. And weird ones, like crawfish and dinosaurs and fried eggs and so forth! I love it all, so I'm trying to go through it slowly (or relatively slowly, anyway). Also I had to hide it from my husband because I saw him eating a dinosaur. Thanks for a fabulous Quonsmas, mrcrow!
posted by holborne at 1:23 PM on December 11, 2019 [2 favorites]

I am still working up to posting. I bought something 2 weeks ago but then my SO reminded me that liquids can be an issue in the postal service, so she will be drinking that. I will pick something out on Saturday and airmail it.
posted by biffa at 2:08 PM on December 11, 2019

I came home from work last night to find a package from monocultured in Sweden!!! Inside was a delightful assortment of sweets in the theme of salted black licorice, which I've only had once before and loved. I need to message him about the glass tube of mystery powder :)

Thank you monocultured!!! You made my night!!!
posted by sweetpotato at 3:48 PM on December 11, 2019 [3 favorites]

You're so welcome wicked_sassy! The neck warmer looks lovely on you!
posted by sweetpotato at 3:51 PM on December 11, 2019 [1 favorite]

baseballpajamas! Im so relieved the package arrived- the mail dog team was raring to go that day, and I was forced to jam the package together at the last minute so I could get it on their sled. Glad you like it- and yes! road trip yer way up here! And also yes you totally can do a stint at the radio station- you'll just have to come up with a cool handle. (not really but couldn't hurt).. Ill be curious to know what the BBPajama Cats have to say about the video.
cheers!
posted by cabin fever at 5:12 PM on December 11, 2019 [2 favorites]

This is my very overdue thank you for my lovely and wonderful and intuitive SQ: ilicet. I’ve been especially under the weather (which is to say, more than usual) this month. So, when ilicet’s gifts arrived on my doorstep, it was this perfect moment of peace, joy, and calm as I exclaimed over each perfectly selected gift. Chocolate (with ginger!), a book that looks perfect for a chilly day by the fire, a classy bookmark that is currently nestled between the pages of Kitchen Confidential, sparkly earrings, a cute pin, and postcards for my wanderlust. ilicet - your thoughtful kindness arrived just when I needed it most. Thank you for the warmth and cheer!
posted by WaspEnterprises at 7:42 PM on December 11, 2019 [2 favorites]

And, I forgot! The best gift of all: a golden elephant from India (the miniature magnificent creature is now happily adorning the window sill above my kitchen sink - giving me happy thoughts whenever I rinse veggies or ignore the dishes).
posted by WaspEnterprises at 10:45 PM on December 11, 2019 [3 favorites]

I have been quonsed! Thank you bettafish for the reusable cotton rounds which I did not already own but have been on my list for a while, and adorable macaron key ring!
posted by ellieBOA at 3:32 AM on December 12, 2019 [5 favorites]

Thank you to shelbaroo for the fantastic gifts! They hit my areas of interest perfectly :)
posted by raccoon409 at 6:07 AM on December 12, 2019 [1 favorite]

Let me start this out by saying that every single person who has sent me a SQ present over the years has been wonderful and I deeply appreciate you guys :)

This year I have been quonsed by the fantastic mygothlaundry - cool username!

I was confused for second when I saw the package because the only Astoria I know of is in Queens, but the package was from Oregon, what the what! The gifts were wrapped in some lovely paper and local newspapers... I haven't handled an actual newspaper in so long that I found the articles and comics kinda fascinating.

I will hang up the photos, pin that pin to my bag, slap that magnet on my fridge (woo hoo Goonies!), place that seashell among my seashells, carry that salt around with me for those moments when things need to get saltier and sip from that lovely mug! Oh and I will always remember whenever I express my disbelief in Bigfoot, that he doesn't believe in me either!

I love every thing so much, thank you!

(metafilter continues to feed my mug addiction - I now have mugs from Gakushuin, Detroit and now the Astoria of Oregon)
posted by Julnyes at 7:58 AM on December 12, 2019 [5 favorites]

Thank you so much to Wasp Enterprises for the dope blue agate and charming trinket box! (Also, you have extremely fancy handwriting. I'm jealous.)
posted by The demon that lives in the air at 9:11 AM on December 12, 2019 [5 favorites]

Dear Secret Quonsar, in case you didn't hear from the czars this is just a note to let you know that your package arrived several days ago! I am saving it to open later, but just knowing it is there brightens my day. I look at it in great anticipation! I've been under some stress lately and this helps. I'll be back with a detailed update and thank-you once I open The Package! (possibly as late as New Year's, so don't worry if you don't hear from me right away!)
posted by spelunkingplato at 11:45 AM on December 12, 2019 [3 favorites]

Dear spelunkingplato -- open it at your leisure! No worries at all. Happy Quonsar!
posted by Annabelle74 at 2:50 PM on December 12, 2019 [2 favorites]

So happy with my Secret Quonsar gift! It's lovely and fun and I'm excited to have it on my desk! I clapped my hands when I set it up. Happy holidays to you!!
posted by amanda at 2:54 PM on December 12, 2019 [2 favorites]

Hi everyone!

I just sent out an email to everyone we didn't have a "sent a gift?" tickmark on -- we had a tracking mix-up so it's possible you've already contacted us about this or posted in one of the threads, and I apologize for the redundancy if that's the case! We also still have funds available if you haven't sent a gift out yet and are finding it difficult to do so for financial reasons -- please email or memail me about that and we can absolutely help you, we want everyone to have a great SQ season both giving and receiving.

If you've been watching this thread and wondering where your gift might be, we'll hopefully have some updates for you by the end of the weekend. I'll do some more tracking/stats updates on Saturday/Sunday as well.

Thanks for being patience with us as we shake-out our initial year of this handover! If you have any suggestions, questions, or comments for next year, please don't hesitate to send those our way.
posted by curious nu at 4:17 PM on December 12, 2019 [8 favorites]

Merry Quonsmas! Today I got the coolest Quonsmas package from amarynth! A wonderfully charming Ruth Bader Ginsburg gift pack created by a Nicaraguan artist. A card, a magnet, pins, a sticker! So nicely packaged! And an excellent unicorn Quonsmas card. So excellent, thank you!
posted by Glinn at 5:26 PM on December 12, 2019 [5 favorites]

Hooray, I got a marvelous Quonsar gift from phunniemee!
Some amazing-smelling coffee that was until recently called the “librarian’s blend” (appropriate!) and the famous Chicago giardiniera (I love condiments) AND a make-your-own music box kit which I am super excited to try out!! Maybe I can make it play “Jingle Rock Bell”.

Thank you so much! The package came at work and all my colleagues were very excited to watch me unwrap!
posted by exceptinsects at 5:36 PM on December 12, 2019 [3 favorites]

A bit of an overdue thank you to my mystery SQ is in order! I received a beautiful box of goodies from Seattle. Locally made festive chocolate bars, soft buttery caramels, and a Douglass Fir scented candle.
They also made the most amazingly delicate talisman necklace. It is beautifully crafted with different stones meant to impart different properties and bring joy and courage. I am so touched by how beautifully sentimental it is, and I put it on immediately and haven’t stopped wearing it since. I cannot thank you enough mystery SQ enough for their thoughtfulness; this was just the pick me up I needed. I am so thrilled to have been their Quonsee!
posted by Champagne Supernova at 6:36 PM on December 12, 2019 [4 favorites]

Thank you jzb for my Quonsmas gift, part 2! I received the lovely book Knitlandia, by Clara Parkes, and I have already started reading it. It looks like it is going to be a super fun read and might get this beginner knitter to learn some more! The Gooey Butter Cake is AMAZING and the book is perfect. Thank you so much!
posted by Dibbery at 6:40 PM on December 12, 2019 [5 favorites]

A package from BuildMyWorld arrived yesterday! Thank you so much!!

I was delighted to find chocolate (chocolate!!!!), a book I had been meaning to read, and a pair of delightfully fuzzy sock-slipper things. All of this arrived alongside our first real snow for the year, and made for a very cozy evening!
posted by Metasyntactic at 7:32 PM on December 12, 2019 [2 favorites]

GuyZero, thank you for the wonderful Quonsmas gifts!

The dog toys were such a big hit that Jake seized one and ran with it before I could even remove the tag. And I love my chocolate and bookmarks.

Thank you so much! It was a much needed lift today.
posted by frumiousb at 8:35 PM on December 12, 2019 [4 favorites]

I mentioned a few days ago that my Quonsmas package had arrived, and the return address said Bondcliff. I was concerned about angry marmosets, sure, but I also knew about the legendary cigar box ukulele, and the owl (more owl), and the blockchain. So I was excited, apprehensive, and more than a little concerned as I opened it up to find...

Part one: bookmarks. Beautiful, elegant wooden bookmarks that I will use and cherish - but not just made out of any old wood. The wood in these bookmarks comes from the schooner Ernestina:

... She sailed to within 600 miles of the North Pole, and later brought immigrants to the U.S. under the power of sail. Returned to the US in 1982 as a gift from the newly independent Cape Verdean people, she sailed as an educator until 2005.

These bookmarks are pieces of history. As an immigrant myself, and a lover of books, this was just perfect.

But ... there's more inside.
posted by RedOrGreen at 8:58 PM on December 12, 2019 [9 favorites]

... because remember, it's a 9 pound package.

I worked my way through the packing material to find part two: a desk set custom-made for an astronomer. Jaw, meet floor.

You can see the the rocky planets, and Jupiter and Saturn, and Uranus and Neptune, all done up in different kinds of wood. (No Pluto - but of course.) But what those pictures don't convey adequately is just how beautiful this is. The different kinds of wood, the different colors and wood grain, the heft, the tactile joy of the thing - this is a work of art. Just look at those swirling clouds on Jupiter, with the Great Red Spot, or the banding on the gas giants.

Oh, and did I mention that the gas giants open up to reveal little felt-lined drawers? This piece of art is also functional! I'd write a song about it if I could, but instead, I'll just have to give it pride of place on my desk at work, where every astronomer colleague passing by will stop and stare at it in amazement. It's just ... perfect.

So thank you, Bondcliff - it's so very inadequate to say thank you for something as amazing as this, but thank you! I'll cherish it for years to come - it couldn't have been a better gift.
posted by RedOrGreen at 9:01 PM on December 12, 2019 [32 favorites]

Oh my gosh, the LITTLE DRAWERS!!! so delightful, how lovely!
posted by exceptinsects at 9:12 PM on December 12, 2019 [3 favorites]

Hi - I tried to send back my response to the "did you send a gift" tracker, but it bounced back.....
posted by EmpressCallipygos at 3:29 AM on December 13, 2019

I'm glad you liked it, RedOrGreen, and thank you for the kind words. I had a lot of fun making it and it's an idea that had been stewing in my head for a couple of years, I just needed to right time to get it out there. Brainstorming and making a thing for the Secret Quonsar has been the only thing that has ever worked on my seasonal depression so it's no exaggeration to say I get as much, if not more, from this as my recipient does. I will be forever grateful for the SQ organizers, past and present.

The desk organizer was entirely made from scraps and off cuts. No trees were harmed that hadn't already been harmed, and nothing was purchased specifically for this project. The wood is all natural color, aside from the brightness the oil finish brings out. Other then the obvious (bands and red spot on Jupiter, Saturn's rings, land on Earth), all the features are natural wood grain. As I've been learning woodworking I've discovered that the beauty is all in the wood. It's important to let it do its thing. I am of the generation that lifted up the carpet our parents had laid down over the hardwood floors.

The oak from the Ernestina was sent to me a couple of years ago by a reclaimer, woodworker, luthier, musician, podcaster and mad scientist named Tim Sway. I just asked him if I could have some, and he sent it to me. I've never even met the guy. Total mensch. I had milled it down into a guitar fingerboard but I eventually decided it wasn't suited for a guitar. I'm glad I found a use for it.

Given what I received myself this year from DigDoug, I really, really, really hope the person I get next year is a baseball fan.
posted by bondcliff at 6:17 AM on December 13, 2019 [18 favorites]

I dropped my secret quonsar a note, but I feel like I would be remiss if I didn't say thank you publicly! Miserable-mild sent a wonderful package containing delicious cookies, a lovely cross-stitch of a mountain scene to remind me of time spent hiking, and two cat toys that are a big hit -- a catnip banana and plastic springs. Thank you again, miserable-mild!
posted by amarynth at 6:44 AM on December 13, 2019 [3 favorites]

Thank you rangefinder 1.4! It was such as pleasure, after a whirlwind couple of weeks, to settle in at home and open your nifty box-o-quonsing. The book is exactly up my alley, the bag will come in very handy, and OMG those kitty book flags are freaking adorable. Even your instinct to use that clever paper case as protective packaging was spot on, because my tendency to just stuff loose papers into my bags is...no longer a good look. Thanks for your thoughtfulness!
posted by shelbaroo at 7:18 AM on December 13, 2019 [3 favorites]

Thank you, Gotanda! I picked up the package from the post office earlier this week and had a delightful time extracting the gift from many (many) layers of protection and wrapping. The gift itself was acquired from another creative Mefite, woodblock100. It is a beautiful print. So appreciated and the little note with it reinforced the joy of sharing. Thank you!
posted by meinvt at 8:20 AM on December 13, 2019 [4 favorites]

Oh my gosh 15L06, this is PERFECT! I literally had a throw blanket on my actual Christmas list, and the tea advent calendar is inspired. (Naturally I opened some of the windows, since we're partway through Advent, and THERE'S A FLAVOUR CALLED BERG & FRISCHE, how awesome is that.)

The bath herbs (also amazing) will be the perfect way to take my final bath in my apartment in style, before moving to a new, tubless one in January. Thank you so much!!
posted by peakes at 10:42 AM on December 13, 2019 [6 favorites]

I received a generous gift card to Topatoco.com from sleeping bear! I am so excited to go pick out something shiny and frivolous that's all for me. :) Thank you so much sleeping bear and HAPPY QUONSMAS TO ALL!
posted by beandip at 11:37 AM on December 13, 2019 [5 favorites]

My gift package arrived while I was out of town and was waiting for me when I returned last night. Sparkly pencils, a blank book, and a delightful pencil case. Perfect for journaling.

Thank you Sea? (probably Sean).
posted by buildmyworld at 1:10 PM on December 13, 2019 [4 favorites]

exceptinsects sent me a bag of coffee that smells incredible and a rad black t-shirt all from Cafe Moto. I love them both! Thank you!
posted by sleeping bear at 1:54 PM on December 13, 2019 [4 favorites]

I’ve been at home sick with an unpleasant head cold after a stressful week at work (and still having to put out fires at work despite being home sick). It is doing that ugly winter rain thing outside and I was feeling sorry for myself when I looked out the front door and lo and behold: a package for me! Thank you to KathrynM for stickers and chocolate (so much chocolate) and a Peanuts shirt and for making a crappy day so much better.
posted by sciencegeek at 3:06 PM on December 13, 2019 [4 favorites]

Mine came in yesterday! Eleanna - you are a heck of a gifter. <3 <3 <3 The crochet-your-own-baby-sloth kit (yarn, stuffing and eyes enough to make two toys for my two kids) is so sweet and thoughtful it brought tears to my eyes. And the sweets are so welcome too. I feel warm and fuzzy and so glad of this community.
posted by arcticwoman at 4:51 PM on December 13, 2019 [5 favorites]

To my Quonsar: thank you, I got your package! Yaaaaayy - I will update here again after I get a chance to flail over it properly!

Hi shelbaroo - I'm so glad you got the box safely! It was a joy to figure out what to send you -- I tried to go for a combo of useful, cute, pretty, nerdy, informative, and celebratory elements, and it's heartening to know everything was so well-received. Enjoy!
posted by rangefinder 1.4 at 5:57 PM on December 13, 2019 [1 favorite]

My Quonsar sent me two lovely gifts from Hong Kong: a set of bamboo tea utensils and an Animal Rescue Team game that their dogs picked out. Thank you so much! I look forward to learning to use both.
posted by Johnny Wallflower at 9:26 PM on December 13, 2019 [6 favorites]

For ideas in my guidance, I said I'd appreciate things local to my Secret Quonsar, or things they made, and did they deliver! A scenic postcard of the University of Oregon is now on my desk, as well as a nifty Bigfoot Country coaster and a little family/pair of cute yellow ducks: what I think is a duck stress ball (I just realized I've never had a stress ball before, so this could be more of a game-changer than you could have imagined, Quonsar), and...a little baby duck LED keychain that actually quacks when you turn on the light! I repeat, it quacks. Just typing that out, I am tempted to listen to it quack again right now but I don't want to wake anyone else...

I'm also delighted to be the recipient of a very cool blue and silvery bracelet that (if I'm interpreting the note correctly) my Quonsar created for me! And it's their first bracelet! The fact that my quonsee guidance inspired their creativity is very humbling and I'm even more touched.

(Did I also mention that I had fun opening the gifts, which were wrapped in paper featuring charming doggos?)

Thanks so much, DingoMutt! It's been such a week and I thank you for such a lovely reminder that kindness still exists.
posted by rangefinder 1.4 at 2:33 AM on December 14, 2019 [6 favorites]

Thank you so much Ellieboa for the lovely gifts! I’m super excited to put together the glow in the dark puzzle! And my cat loves the toy! And a special treat for me too! Merry quonsmas!
posted by LizBoBiz at 3:08 AM on December 14, 2019 [3 favorites]

You are very welcome!
posted by ellieBOA at 6:24 AM on December 14, 2019 [1 favorite]

Thanks to 6thsense whose package arrived last week and was a delightful addition to my day. I received multiple notebooks, Danish chocolate treats, yarn, washi tape and probably something I’m forgetting. Oh yes, this long plastic curved device with a black rubberized rotating head that looked at first glance like some sort of personal pleasure device but turns out after much googling to be a myofascial massage tool for the neck and back. I was carrying my Theracane to work on bad pain days so this was EXACTLY WHAT I NEEDED. It now sits on my desk, making students uncomfortable.

Merry Quonsmas to all of us!
posted by mecran01 at 6:28 AM on December 14, 2019 [7 favorites]

I am glad you like it, peakes!
My apologies for the late delivery, and enjoy.
posted by 15L06 at 7:08 AM on December 14, 2019 [1 favorite]

Johnny Wallflower, I’m glad it arrived! My dogs say hey!
posted by frumiousb at 7:13 AM on December 14, 2019 [2 favorites]

Thank you, soakimbo! I'm so delighted by adorable otter socks (I have been wishing for otter socks for ages and this is like a gleeful fulfillment of a long-term dream), and I love the great attitude stickers, fan, and SUPER SPARKLY bag, which I intend to put into regular use toting around notecards I use for class.

I'm SO glad I waited to open my package; it was fun to see it waiting there for me, and then it was fun to have the pile of festively wrapped presents around, and even better to discover what was inside. Thank you!!!
posted by beccasaurus at 8:12 AM on December 14, 2019 [2 favorites]

Per FedEx, my quonsee's gift arrived yesterday...tracking says it was left at the front door. I hope it actually gets to my Quonsee and not porch thieves!
posted by SisterHavana at 3:43 PM on December 14, 2019 [1 favorite]

It’s a gray and rainy day, I’ve been sick with maybe-now-bronchitis for a whole week, and when someone knocked on my door I was ready to expel them from my property with extreme prejudice. Instead, I found I have been marvelously quonsed by initapplette! First of all, I don’t know if Mr. Initapplette designed the card or chose it, but either way it’s beautiful. Second, everything is beautifully wrapped in gorgeous wrapping paper with gift tags coded for me and for centrifugalita, which I will possibly start calling my kid in real life now! I’ll admit I peeked, then rewrapped everything so my kiddo (who is not with me today) can be in on the unwrapping magic.

And the incredibly wonderful contents! For me: A book a friend had already told me I would like, the most soft and cuddly infinity scarf, and a box of chocolate maple brittle. (You couldn’t have known I grew up in the Northeast, miss maple things, and force my aunt whose neighbors make their own maple syrup to mail me jars of it!) For centrifugalita, a little soft unicorn! A dinosaur excavation kit! A charming unicorn coloring book, UNICORN PANTS in the exact right size, and two mysterious gifts in disco bubble wrap envelopes I couldn’t sneakily open.

You have gone above and beyond with your care and generosity, and I want to know where you buy wrapping paper. Thank you!
posted by centrifugal at 5:03 PM on December 14, 2019 [4 favorites]

davemee, thank you so much for the wonderful Quonsmas package!! As much as I love, love, love edible treats and look forward to trying the intriguing Superior Organic Christmas Pudding which comes with steaming instructions (!), and sampling the Tiffin Selection Box (which I may or may not save to share with our Christmas guests) - my absolute favourite part of your present is the fantastic "Running Sun Salutation With Cats With Video Media" drawing on the card <3<3<3 I haven't decided where to flaunt this original art piece yet but I promise you it will find its place in our home. Thank you!!
posted by rawrberry at 4:05 AM on December 15, 2019 [4 favorites]

Oh glorious day, for I have been quonsed!! I am a proud recipient of a 5 in 1 kitchen utensil and a wonderfully bright yellow citrus juicer! I shall have many a kitchen adventure with these two in the near future! Thank you Neil!
posted by astapasta24 at 5:21 AM on December 15, 2019 [2 favorites]

OH YIKES

Important note for whoever has me (Empress Callipygos) as their Quonsee - we have just learned that one of the FedEx ground delivery guys has been leaving deliveries to buildings on my block IN WITH THE TRASH by each building, instead of bringing them to our actual porches. Some people have retrieved their packages just in time, others may have lost theirs for good with the last trash pickup. (There are angry calls being placed to FedEx this morning from various buildings up and down my block.)

So if you are sending me something, and you have a Fedex note that it was delivered - can you send me the tracking info (through the organizers if need be) so I can call FedEx and scream?

(If you have something like UPS or USPS, it may be a good idea to check in too, since THOSE delivery guys just have a habit of bringing things to the wrong building; although at least they make it into a building in those instances, and eventually they get to the right place.)
posted by EmpressCallipygos at 8:19 AM on December 15, 2019 [1 favorite]

Sunday update!

Thank you to everyone who responded to our sent-gift check-in. At this point we're sure that most of the gifts have been sent out, possibly all of them. Some of them only went out very recently, though, so if you haven't received a gift yet it may still be a week or two out. Please feel free to send us an email or memail sometime towards the end of this week if you still haven't received anything -- we'll likely send out a received-gift check-in next weekend to try and catch all the loose threads.

Sunday stats -- food!

30 gifts had something chocolate or chocolate-related
19 gifts involved tea in some way
6 gifts had cookbooks or recipes
20 gifts involved especially sweet treats
posted by curious nu at 9:45 AM on December 15, 2019 [6 favorites]

I have had the quonsors bestow their quonse upon me in a very interesting way!

I received a teeny wooden chest-of-drawers (with little Scottie dogs on it!) just big enough for each of the two drawers to hold a deck of playing cards.
Which they did! Within I found two charmingly old-ass decks of cards, one a bridge-size Bicycle deck and one a deck of casino-back poker-size cards.
The whole lot smells vaguely of cigar smoke, especially the heavily-played casino deck.

Sadly, the shipping fairies left the little wooden chest-of-drawers a bit worse for wear. It is in pieces, but it’s nothing a little wood glue and careful clamping can’t fix.

Thanks, damayanti, for a really nifty quonsmas gift!
posted by Mister Moofoo at 9:49 AM on December 15, 2019 [2 favorites]

I received my qonsmas goodies a week ago but just got around to opening the box. Thank you (person who's name I couldn't make out from the postcard) for my Austin themed goodies! The jalapeno bark will be savored this afternoon, the adorable magnet is enfridged, and the coasters and cup are in perfect homes waiting to be used!
posted by darsh at 10:46 AM on December 15, 2019 [1 favorite]

Oh my gosh, quonsmas!!

Finally made it out to the post office yesterday, and discovered to my excitement that my gift came all the way from Denmark! Opened the box, and literally squealed upon seeing the little squirrel-unicorn hybrid (squirrelycorn?) stuffed animal. And then, as I went further into the box, even more treasures. Hand soap and shower gel and lotion that all smell heavenly. A bar of soap in many colors that looks like a mini abstract painting. A jar of black licorice. Salt and caramel chocolate coated licorice—not sure how all these flavors go together, but I’m excited to see. A bag of tiny baby cinnamon spice cookies. (Debating whether to bring these in and share with my co-workers or keep them all for me. Let’s be real, it will more likely be the latter). A Christmas pen with a green feathery top that I will take great pains to hold onto, because good pens are valuable. And last but not least, a lovely card from my quonsar alchemical, talking about how warmly welcomed he was when traveling in the states recently. I am a front line worker guiding marginalized people through the hellscape that is the US medical system, which is a great way to make yourself real cynical. Reading this little bit of brightness from my quonsar offset some of that jadedness I carry with me everywhere for just a bit. Full haul is here, with bonus close up of the squirrelycorn.

Thank you again alchemical, this was lovely.
posted by ActionPopulated at 8:55 PM on December 15, 2019 [9 favorites]

Yay, so glad you liked your gifts rangefinder 1.4 - and thank you for the lovely Memails, too! Yes, I did make the bracelet and am delighted that you liked it - it was so much fun that I'm planning on doing some for several of my family members now, too =) And the Duck is among my favorite things about UO - way back when I was making a spreadsheet trying to decide where to go to grad school, among the "pros" I'd written for UO was "mascot is a duck" (and really, what else could compete after that) ... so I pretty much had to get you some fun duck stuff. I've got the keychain, too, and every now and again will accidentally set it quacking in my pocket and have to try not to be too foolishly pleased about it.

Thanks for being such a wonderful quonsee - I had a lot of fun shopping for you and am looking forward to making more jewelry thanks to your inspiration! Happy Quonsmas!
posted by DingoMutt at 8:58 PM on December 15, 2019 [1 favorite]

Hej ActionPopulated! I am so happy you liked your gift. I hope you feel well and truly quonsed :) I tried to find things that you would like but that also represent a bit of our culture (especially the licorise and pebernødder!). Quonsmas season here in DK is pretty dark - I mean literally dark with the sunset at 3pm... so we try to liven things up via hygge (of which I saw a number of books in the US attempting to describe!). I hope your package has brought you a little hygge from my family to yours :)
posted by alchemist at 11:52 PM on December 15, 2019 [4 favorites]

After a week of miserable sickness (fyi, children should be lysoled when they come home from school), I realized that in the pile of mail that had accumulated was a wonderful gift from ActionPopulated. What a pick me up! Thanks so much for the beautiful card and the amazing print, bees are the bestest!
posted by lydhre at 5:53 AM on December 16, 2019 [3 favorites]

I received my Secret Quonsaaaaaaaar!!! (excited noise).

It weighs a tonne, I hope the postage didn't bankrupt you, oh mysterious sender. I haven't opened it yet as I'm going away for about a week over Christmas and it would actually be lovely to have some things to open when I return home, so I'm going to save it, I hope that's OK. So I also don't know if your identity will be revealed inside the parcel or if it's going to remain truly secret, but hey - it arrived and I'm both grateful and excited - thank you!

Will update once I've opened.
posted by penguin pie at 12:30 PM on December 16, 2019 [1 favorite]

I have finally sent mine (apologies!) and will update the quonczars with the tracking number tomorrow morning when (I hope) I am not abed with The Crud.
posted by ocherdraco at 4:32 PM on December 16, 2019 [1 favorite]

So I have been very remiss in not saying thanks for my lovely gift, which arrived what feels like a lifetime ago.

It had a bunch of fun food things including Russian mushrooms (pickled? simply preserved? I'm not sure), birch syrup and a few other fun local things from far away. I have the card somewhere but I don't have it at hand so I can't thank my Quonsar by name, I'm so sorry! But whoever you are out there in Mefi land, it was a perfect gift, just the kind of odd things from far away that I like. Thanks so much.
posted by GuyZero at 9:29 AM on December 17, 2019 [2 favorites]

Hey frumiousb, I'm so glad your dogs (or at least one dog) liked the toys. Toys that make noise are kind of polarizing but I figured a small toy for a small dog is good so glad it worked out. I'm impressed how quickly the packages made it overseas also. Happy holidays to you and, well, everyone.
posted by GuyZero at 9:31 AM on December 17, 2019 [3 favorites]

Am I the last to send a Quonsmas package out? Just got back from the post office where they assured me it would be delivered by Saturday-ish.

I'm so sorry for the delay, dear Quonsar. I hope it has just extended the festive season a bit.
posted by MsVader at 1:44 PM on December 17, 2019 [1 favorite]

Thank you romakimmy for once more sending me such a lovely parcel of nice things! The woolly scarf is perfect, and i love the key chain adornment, not sure what to call it but it feels good to play with ( i often play with my keys in my pocket). And i finished the Chocolate in one go.
Thank you!
posted by 15L06 at 1:47 PM on December 17, 2019 [4 favorites]

omg CHARA thank you so much for the lovely Quonsmas gift of craft liquors and a scarf! I grew up in the KC area and had never heard of that distillery, so it's both an exciting new adventure and a nice reminder of a former home <3
posted by aaanastasia at 5:34 PM on December 17, 2019 [5 favorites]

Yay! I'm so glad you liked the package, 15L06. My kids helped pick out the scarf, and the key chain is a corno portafortuna, which is believed to ward off bad luck and the evil eye, and must always be gifted and never purchased for one's self. Merry Quonsmas!
posted by romakimmy at 6:49 AM on December 18, 2019 [4 favorites]

I put my gift in the mail Dec 1 and haven't heard anything since. Canada Post has spent over three weeks not sending a package I ordered the 40km to my house though, so I can only assume the gift is sitting in the massive backlog.
posted by sgrass at 10:08 AM on December 18, 2019 [1 favorite]

sgrass, feel free to ask one of the Quonsmas administrators to email the person you've gifted to see if they've received your package. I was truly worried the box I send out had been taken or misdelivered, and was relieved when I got word back that the person I gifted had, apparently, at least received my presents. This might bring a little peace of mind!
posted by but no cigar at 1:03 PM on December 18, 2019 [3 favorites]

I received a package last week, but I'm waiting until the 25th to open it =)
posted by ApathyGirl at 2:21 PM on December 18, 2019 [3 favorites]

Just got home on a decidedly below freezing Michigan night to find a fat package from penguin pie, including a fuzzy warm tartan scarf and two kinds of candy. I'm especially looking forward to trying the sour "plooms"!
posted by yarntheory at 4:37 PM on December 18, 2019 [4 favorites]

I just opened a truly excellent secret quonsar gift from Servo5678-- a Chateau Picard t-shirt that's just the kind of subtle fan t-shirt I enjoy most (in my favorite color, grey). It's exactly the sort of thing I'd want but not buy for myself, so I especially appreciate it as a gift. Thank you - it really brightened my day today!
posted by snaw at 4:47 PM on December 18, 2019 [3 favorites]

Wonderful Quonsar, thank you so very much for the lovely embroidered cat pouch! The silhouette of the black kitter looks like my own small panther back in her slinkier days. You rock!
posted by batbat at 5:42 PM on December 18, 2019 [3 favorites]

Glad to hear that the package arrived in one piece sweetpotato - I was a bit worried about the glass tube. Salt candy are always a hit-and-miss, so it's nice to hear that you like it.

As a kid I was always asked to bring salmiak candy to my cousins in Poland – they hated it, but used it to prank their friends.
posted by monocultured at 12:44 AM on December 19, 2019 [3 favorites]

A box from Canada greeted me home last night. I am assuming it’s from my SQ. I’m working on my EQ and patience and will be opening it on the 25th, but thanks SQ! ! I’ll send a proper thank you once I open it. :)
posted by theappleonatree at 6:16 AM on December 19, 2019 [2 favorites]

I’ve been away for work but came home to this splendid Quonsmas gift thanks to brilliantmistake (and another top secret Quonsar!). In need of a last-minute gift? Go buy this book! Another wonderful Quonsmas...thanks to everyone who makes this happen.
posted by OneSmartMonkey at 7:30 AM on December 19, 2019 [6 favorites]

Clotted cream fudge??? Oh my god.
posted by MsVader at 9:19 AM on December 19, 2019

Dear vickyverky. I received your SQ package yesterday, and I'm honestly in awe. This has got to be one of the top gifts I've ever received. The box is lovely, and could easily have come from where I grew up in Sweden - it has the same style. I immediately squealed when opening the box, and was able to identify most of the items on first sight (pearlware! slipware! clay pipe bowl!) since I used to be an archaeologist in the Southeast U.S., with a special focus on colonial history. Mudlarking on the banks of the Thames has been on my bucket list since I found out about it decades ago, and this allows me to live vicariously! Thank you! I'm stunned and so pleased. It fits perfectly on my collection shelf, between the two glass-lidded boxes of rocks, shells, fossils, and ephemera, and next to my jar of fossilized shark's teeth!

SQ is a wonderful tradition, and your nice note and lovely old card just really made me so happy. No words can adequately express how happy I am! Thanks a million!

*Sadly, one of the items (12) on your excellent key-card appears to be missing. I was so careful when opening the box, but it's now nowhere to be found. I hunted high and low to no avail. I'm sorry. I had to eat one of the tremendously tasty chocolate bars to feel better when I realized, so thanks for that too!
posted by gemmy at 10:58 AM on December 19, 2019 [9 favorites]

Ahhh! My quonsar gifts came today and they rule! woodvine hit it out of the park with Breaking Bad magnets, show quote pencils and beautiful postcards! So perfect!!

Thank you so much, woodvine, for such an amazing haul! Happy Quonsmas every last one of us!
posted by Twicketface at 12:32 PM on December 19, 2019 [2 favorites]

holborne thank you so much for your gift! Perfect timing - I just encountered the 'oh no' webcomic last week for the first time and I love it.
posted by bq at 12:47 PM on December 19, 2019 [2 favorites]

I have been quonsed! I got some adorable tuxedo cat stickers, a box of salt water taffy, and a super cool journal that's right up my alley. : ) Thanks so much, MsVader! (And how cool that we know someone in common outside of MeFi!)
posted by SisterHavana at 3:23 PM on December 19, 2019 [3 favorites]

To the mysterious KB - thank you for the tea, strainer, Gallic postcard collection and pins! The DJ rabbit pin is now jazzing up my backpack and I’ve been taking the tea with me in a thermos on colder days - somehow you figured out my tastes perfectly, it’s everything I want in a black tea!

ellieBOA, glad you liked your cotton rounds and keychain!
posted by bettafish at 4:13 PM on December 19, 2019 [5 favorites]

Happy Quonsmas to me! I got a package from gemmy, stuffed to the brim with things. Unboxing it was a delightful adventure, as there were: Taiwanese pineapple cakes! A thing for making smiley face pancakes! A lovely piece of pottery by gemmy that just happens to fit our home's colour scheme! A cute stuffy for my daughter! (and more!!) It all brought a huge smile to my face, and will continue to bring smiles to our breakfasts. Thank you so much!
posted by Monster_Zero at 7:34 PM on December 19, 2019 [3 favorites]

Hello lovely quonsar! A sender-less parcel marked fragile and smelling delightful has arrived! Which I suspect is my present! Unless you were expecting it to be more fighty and bitey due to marmosets? I am going to...exercise willpower and not open it until I get back from my in-laws but it is carefully under the tree as I type.
posted by halcyonday at 3:35 AM on December 20, 2019 [3 favorites]

Ps. The cats are fascinated by it. I might have to move it in case they open it for me!
posted by halcyonday at 3:37 AM on December 20, 2019 [3 favorites]

bq, I'm so glad you liked it! Happy Quonsmas!
posted by holborne at 8:10 AM on December 20, 2019 [2 favorites]

Glad it arrive yarntheory - enjoy the soor plooms!
posted by penguin pie at 8:34 AM on December 20, 2019 [2 favorites]

Thank you Freyja for the museum membership, and the lovely textured card! Some good comment-digging research you did there. Looking forward to using it; the Mennonite Village is one of our family's favourite places. Happy Quonsmas!
posted by Hardcore Poser at 10:30 AM on December 20, 2019 [3 favorites]

Romakimmy, i only just today found the SPQR magnet - so cool Thank you. At least i think it was part of the sq parcel? I had opened it at work and only today found it on the floor beneath my desk.
The corna portafortuna is now on the key ring for my new home, i finally left my abusive partner and i like the symbolism of warding off evil.
posted by 15L06 at 3:01 PM on December 20, 2019 [11 favorites]

I am so very late in chiming in with my own package, and I have managed to lose the packaging and username of my Quonsar. If you're watching the thread, thank you so much! I received a few gifts for my feline friends, some pet grass and a "Hexbug" toy for their amusement. Also a recent 2600 (that hits the spot!) and some great magnets that will be deployed to my fridge for eternity... or until I move again and don't get around to unpacking anything but desperately needed essentials for a few years. But I hope not to be moving again for many years.

Thanks so much again, and sorry for the lateness in acknowledging these gifts!
posted by jzb at 3:23 PM on December 20, 2019 [2 favorites]

I was super excited to receive a package all the way from Japan this morning, and inside was a selection of Japanese snacks (which my kids are now desperate to try), a cool pen, stickers, an amazing Japanese Star Wars tea cup, and a lovely card. Thank you so much emmling!
posted by EndsOfInvention at 4:51 AM on December 21, 2019 [3 favorites]

Yes! I thought maybe it had gone missing in the mail. And I’m not a superstitious person, but with the address hubaloo, I added the corna as a little extra on a hunch. So think of it as a long distance hug from your SQ who just teared up reading your update.
posted by romakimmy at 7:39 AM on December 21, 2019 [3 favorites]

Thank you ochenk for the recording that I've never heard of and the cookies I've never had. Both were a treat, and I am enjoying them both right now. Together. :)
posted by saeculorum at 8:33 AM on December 21, 2019 [3 favorites]

theBigRedKittyPurrs is a terrible person. Her gifts have sown strife in my household as we fight over who gets to stuff nuts down our gob. But though we are divided, we are yet united in our gratitude to her. Merry Quonsmas :)
posted by appleses at 11:56 AM on December 21, 2019 [6 favorites]

While it was not my intent to sow strife in your household, I confess I am a bit pleased that my nuts have achieved the sowing of mild discord. Merry Quonsmas!
posted by theBigRedKittyPurrs at 2:12 PM on December 21, 2019 [4 favorites]

I’ve waited patiently for the Solstice (Happy Solstice to all!) to open my beautifully wrapped Quonsmas gifts. I enjoyed it so much! I received some intriguing sesame ginger seasoning salt, looking forward to trying that, and also some HANDMADE hot chocolate mix...if I wasn’t stuffed full of Solstice dinner I’d have tried it already! I was also gifted a sweet black cat note pad, a “Chocolate Understands” sticker set and a lovely pink crystal Butterfly sun catcher which I will hang in my glass studio. Last but not least is the cutest possible kitchen timer in the shape of a pink and white cat and mouse for my pink and white kitchen!
Each gift had a sweet little tag or note and made me feel so special.
My Quonsar chose to remain truly secret...including her real name but not her MeFi name so all I can do is say Thank You, so much, for your kindness and generosity!
Hugs and Happy All Of The Holidays!
posted by antiquated at 6:26 PM on December 21, 2019 [5 favorites]

Metafilter: "my nuts have achieved the sowing of mild discord."
posted by jzb at 4:57 AM on December 22, 2019 [1 favorite]

Despite the best (worst?) attempts of my feckless post office, I am finally in receipt of a box of local goodies from MSalt. Thank you, friend! I have already eaten the toffee for breakfast.
posted by minervous at 10:44 AM on December 22, 2019 [2 favorites]

So many thank yous to rhiannonstone, who sent me the most delicious Quonsmas present ever, including a sweet card featuring an inquisitive bunny and details about the delightful treats enclosed. I’ve been enjoying sampling everything - wow! Also, this giant candy cane stick took me right back to childhood - I forgot that these existed! Thank you so much, and happy happy Quonsmas!
posted by rocketing at 11:41 AM on December 22, 2019 [2 favorites]

Yay rocketing I'm so glad the package made it there despite the comedy of delays! Happy happy Quonsmas!
posted by rhiannonstone at 12:02 PM on December 22, 2019 [1 favorite]

I am tardy in my thanks, but possibilityleft and possibilitywife Quonsed me well! I now have a lovely card, some excellent Highlander Grogg coffee, sock yarn, and a yarn bowl to keep my works-in-progress in! There was also the best St. Louis gooey coffee cake I’ve ever had... but that’s gone now. Thanks for running such a great swap... I look forward to this every year!
posted by Stephanie Duy at 8:37 AM on December 23, 2019 [2 favorites]

This year has been horribly stressful for me, and while I received my gift a while ago, I have been remiss in expressing my thanks for it.

Too-Ticky sent me some fantastic candies - a bag of licorice and a bag of coffee flavored - and an absolutely AMAZING dinosaur pin and a shark necklace that were handmade out of old circuit boards. They are wonderful and I love them and getting the package really helped me get through the last bit of work before I could travel home for the holidays.
posted by emmling at 12:00 PM on December 23, 2019 [6 favorites]

emmling, what a relief. I was worried that the shark and the dino had decided to make a break for it and head off into postal neverland together, never to be heard from again. So glad they made it to your end of the globe, and that you like them! I had a good time making them, too.
I hope you have utterly relaxing holidays!
posted by Too-Ticky at 12:13 PM on December 23, 2019 [2 favorites]

After 10 days away in Montréal I returned today and went straight to my mailbox to find a gorgeous gift box from my secret quonsar, angiep!!! Oh. My.Goodness THANK YOU!! I was gifted a beautiful hand-made black&red scarf (my colours!!) as well as a very pretty tea strainer and tea filters. AND, oh my word, Lapsang Souchong tea. My favourite!! Really! I was searching for some while I was in Montreal and was not successful. This could not have arrived at a better moment.

So thank you thank you thank you dear angiep for your truly thoughtful gifts. I feel happy and blessed. Happy Quonsmas.
posted by seawallrunner at 4:04 PM on December 23, 2019 [2 favorites]

A DISPATCH FROM THE EMPIRE:

EmpressCallipygos has received her quonsar package safely! I am saving it to open until Christmas, but wanted to thank my quonser now and let them know it's here!
posted by EmpressCallipygos at 7:29 PM on December 23, 2019 [1 favorite]

So glad you liked it, seawallrunner. It was fun to draw your name again! Best Quonsmas wishes!!
posted by angiep at 8:51 PM on December 23, 2019 [2 favorites]

Yay! A few weeks I posted about having received the gift of anticipation but today I received a worm and some owls!!! Thank you, mandolin conspiracy!!!!!!

I already have some of the earlier microbial Giant Microbes and the neuron, which I love, but i didn’t know they had moved into multicellular organisms!!! The worm is so cute! I am also already a fan of Ningeokuluk Teevee and looking forward to exploring more of her work...
posted by Tandem Affinity at 6:59 PM on December 24, 2019 [5 favorites]

Quonsmas just became 501% better because of the MOST thoughtful gifts from rawberry!! They found hanging decorations that covered all the themes I like (movies, food, star wars), and they are now all proudly displayed in the window of my new apt. I will look at them with pride and happiness all of these quonsmas days and take them out again every year. Thanks!!!
posted by alchemist at 2:50 AM on December 25, 2019 [3 favorites]

A THANK YOU FROM THE EMPIRE

EmpressCallipygos has opened her package (now that it is Christmas morning) and is reporting in with thanks to Randominconsistencies for a collection of goodies from Bristol! I've been spoiled with:

* A little bag of chocolates from Fortunum and Mason
* Another chocolate-orange treat from a more local chocolatier
* a tea towel and a fridge magnet, each featuring a street scene from Clifton Village and Park Street in Bristol
* a little bottle of pear liqueur
* and an entire baby MINCE PIE!

Everything was beautifully wrapped and survived the post in fine shape. I haven't even unwrapped the pie yet because it's too pretty. However, I'm spending Christmas on my own this year and have decided to spend it by making several elaborate meals for myself, and the mince pie is probably going to be devoured as part of the tea course. (Yes, I have an entire tea course planned.)

Thank you!
posted by EmpressCallipygos at 6:43 AM on December 25, 2019 [3 favorites]

I’m really beginning to believe in Quonsmas magic. I was feeling so homesick this holiday season and my present couldn’t have been more timely. Thank you, Homeboy Trouble for the delicious package of Canadian goodies. The truffles were insanely smooth, I’m going to hoard and savour the rest of the chocolate (Aeros! Coffee Crisps! The good kind of Smarties!), and I’m already envisioning having that Saskatoon Berry Jam on waffles while binge watching Schitt’s Creek so I could have a proper day of Canadian treats.

Also, thank you for making me one of the cool kids with a mini-whisk (Do I get additional cool points because now I also have a mini-spatula and mini-tongs?)!

Thank you again and I hope you and everyone had as merry a quonsmas as I did.
posted by theappleonatree at 7:31 PM on December 25, 2019 [6 favorites]

Rozaine ! Thank you so much for the divine lily and ivy candle (this, it turns out, is what the cats were obsessed with!), a delicious smelling soap and some Dutch sweeties!

I am looking forward to lighting, using and eating in the near future!
posted by halcyonday at 5:41 AM on December 26, 2019 [3 favorites]

I was Quonsed just before Christmas, and love my new collection of sea-themed tree ornaments- three starfish and three sand dollars! Thank you so much, anon Quonsar! I love them!
posted by initapplette at 9:42 AM on December 26, 2019 [3 favorites]

And my final present from tan_coul showed up! Its a puzzle box (I asked for puzzles haha) which took me a bit to open, but inside were so many goodies! A tiny Carmen Sandiego, colourful page flags, a tiny unicorn, a cat Nope badge. There was also a temporary tattoo and a card with a Care Bear Maleficent - amazing. Thank you!!
posted by divabat at 6:12 PM on December 26, 2019 [1 favorite]

Dear spinturtle, a belated thank you for the box of Quonsmas cheer. It’s been a sad week here with the death of a friend who was too young, but your lovely box cheered me up a lot. The cats are currently occupied, respectively, with the catnip toy and the parrot. The lemon cookies were delicious (and did very well in that packaging) and the chocolate looks divine. And I am not ashamed to say I literally crooned “fruuuuuuit sliiiices”because I have not had them in a long time and they are my very favorite. The lag time in the thanks is regrettable but not at all indicative of my level of gratitude. Thank you, and happy Quonsmas to you.
posted by The Elusive Architeuthis at 8:45 PM on December 26, 2019 [1 favorite]

Thank you, S.Q., for the delightful bit of whimsy! This state shaped board will be perfect for the holding of cheeses come my next party. Thanks again!
posted by enfa at 7:03 AM on December 27, 2019 [2 favorites]

Sorry for the delayed posting, as I was out of town, but thank you so much ocherdraco for the well thought out gifts! The origami paper is beautiful, and I am very happy to have somewhere to store my stuff, things, and misc :)
posted by sacrifix at 9:31 AM on December 27, 2019 [3 favorites]

I got a delightful T-shirt with the Toronto trash racoons from Go Banana, as well as a postcard with some promising book recs. No pics because I'm not home, but thank you so much!! I'm actually a tiny bit obsessed with the Toronto racoons and the way they seem to outsmart everyone, so that makes the T-shirt even better.
posted by matildatakesovertheworld at 9:36 AM on December 27, 2019 [3 favorites]

A big thank you to my SQ for a great gift. It's crazy that you only lived a few miles from me, what a small world! Thank you again!
posted by unreasonable at 11:42 AM on December 27, 2019 [2 favorites]

I received a delightful tiny music box, soap and tiny pens. THANK YOU gaspode. I keep annoying my cat with the music box.
posted by emjaybee at 12:01 PM on December 27, 2019 [3 favorites]

Thanks toby_ann, the microscope and pens are awesome. Hidden worlds are mine to behold!
posted by Orange Pamplemousse at 2:38 PM on December 27, 2019 [2 favorites]

Thank you, SQ, for exactly what I asked for. :D
posted by aniola at 6:35 PM on December 27, 2019 [2 favorites]

I can't thank kimberussell enough for my gift! I waited until Christmas to open it.

It's was so perfect.

She took the Ask I made about cookies and then turned it into a cookbook for me. Plus she sent me cat cookie cutters!!!! I can't wait to bake cat cookies.

And sciencegeek, I'm glad you liked the chocolates. I love Malley's but rarely partake. Going there to get those for you meant I was able to get some for myself. :-)

I'm so glad I participated in Quonsmas this year.
posted by kathrynm at 8:43 PM on December 27, 2019 [8 favorites]

I'm very late to this and I can only apologise but it's not been the week off I expected.

Huge thanks though to @athirstforsalt for the gift you'd never buy for yourself, a collection of Ted Chiang's short stories, which arrived at precisely the right point to distract me in a useful way. I've documented the reception experience in a howto but set your blockers to maximum as it's Instagram (brought to you by Facebook).

This was a lovely gift I look forward to working though, and the back story about international postage costs exceeding content costs was also entirely too familiar to me :)
posted by davemee at 2:34 AM on December 28, 2019 [4 favorites]

Oooh! I finally got back to my place and opened my SQ and it's amazing!

GORGEOUS beanbag warmers, made out of super-soft flannel material, in colours and designs that I love, including two small hand-sized ones, just perfect for snuggling in my pockets on Scottish winters. Thank you, oh Secret Quonsar who remains secret but is from Ontario - thank you!
posted by penguin pie at 12:36 PM on December 29, 2019 [1 favorite]

Just got back home after a week away, and my Quonsar packages were waiting for me! The Elusive Architeuthis, thank you so much for all the wonderful gifts - I'm sitting here now wearing the coziest socks ever, and oh man are those incredible toffees disappearing at an alarming rate. I don't often treat myself to really GOOD chocolate and can't get over how decadent it tastes.

The stickers are adorable, and are starting to take up residence on my computers, water bottles, etc - and it's so cool to have an Oregon Nature Calendar calendar from an artist who lives in the same town I do! Being still relatively new to Oregon I'm thrilled at all the week-by-week facts about our local plants and critters, and the flicker on the front of the calendar looks just like one who visits our yard - we only figured out what kind of bird it was about a month ago so I was excited to see one on the front of the calendar! Thank you so much for all the thoughtful and fun gifts, The Elusive Architeuthis, you really knocked it out of the park. Happy Quonsmas!
posted by DingoMutt at 9:30 AM on December 31, 2019 [2 favorites]

I'm very late to this as I have been traveling, but I just want to say how happy I am with my gifts! The dish towels are INDEED the best dish towels I have ever used, and the tiny whisks make my heart sing. I used one this morning to make scrambled eggs, and I got to feel like a giant. Many thanks to my wonderful secret Quonsar!
posted by zoetrope at 10:12 AM on January 1, 2020 [2 favorites]

I want to apologize for not saying THANK YOU SO MUCH SECRET QUONSAR earlier but I absolutely love my gift. The framed cat stamps will be on display as soon as I can find a place to put them that the real cats can't get to. The tea smells delicious and will be drinking it as the cold weather grinds on. Thank you for the wonderful presents. It made my Christmas.
posted by googlebombed at 7:22 AM on January 2, 2020 [2 favorites]

I want to apologize for not saying THANK YOU SO MUCH SECRET QUONSAR earlier but I absolutely love my gift. The framed cat stamps will be on display as soon as I can find a place to put them that the real cats can't get to. The tea smells delicious and will be drinking it as the cold weather grinds on. Thank you for the wonderful presents. It made my Christmas.

That's the way I felt about my SQ gifts from Glinn last year.

I am glad you like them, googlebombed! Those faces!!! I got them at Eastern Market (D.C.), either the Saturday craft fair or the Sunday flea market.
posted by jgirl at 11:24 AM on January 2, 2020 [2 favorites]

Multicellular Exothermic, the box has arrived! Looks like the postie hid it behind plants near the front door. Thank you for the thoughtful Canadian-themed gifts. You knew I’m Canadian? The earrings and candies and calendar of The Group of Seven. I’ll be wearing you earrings this evening! Mr. Icing loves maple syrup but has never had the candies; I’ll try and save a piece for myself. And the calendar is already on my desk.

Thank you so very much.
posted by lemon_icing at 7:22 PM on January 3, 2020 [4 favorites]

Thank you to everyone who participated in secret quonsar this year. It looks like a lot of really great, thoughtful gifts whisked all over the globe. mochapickle, Secretariat and I have all really enjoyed running the show. =) If you have any comments or feedback, I'd genuinely like to hear it so I can make sure to improve things for everyone next year -- drop me an email at the SQ box, or memail me with whatever's on your mind.

I'll poke back in later tonight with some almost-wrapped-up notes, but wanted to say real quick that if you have not yet received a gift and have not heard from us, please check your spam folders! We have a small stable of second chancers that have stepped up and I'm doing those assignments today. There are a few gifts that I know are still on their way, so between those and this second chance round I'm hoping we can make sure everyone gets some quonsar season cheer. =)
posted by curious nu at 10:15 AM on January 5, 2020 [11 favorites]

Your are welcome, lemon_icing! I try to be clever in choosing my Secret Quonsar gifts, and I am glad that you like them. I didn't know you are Canadian... I just chose things that I thought you wouldn't be able to find where you live. I can send more maple candy if you would like! Happy New Year, everyone!
posted by Multicellular Exothermic at 8:23 PM on January 5, 2020 [2 favorites]

Back to work Monday is never any good, but I got a package notification today and--- AWWW. I love my quonsmas package so much! Thank you @sitforaspell! I'm beaming!
posted by athirstforsalt at 1:14 AM on January 6, 2020 [1 favorite]

Between a few second chancers and some things in transit, we're still waiting on ~15 gifts to reach their destinations, but otherwise Secret Quonsar 2019 has more-or-less (un)wrapped up! The biggest thing this year was the start of the SQ Donation Fund, which will be rolling over into next year. Thank you to everyone who donated! It made a difference. =)

Also, julen was a huge help in getting this transferred, so while she may not have been an official quonczar this year, she was instrumental in this going as smoothly as it did.

Sunday Monday stats!

42 gifts were or involved books, including 3 cookbooks and 3 zines.
39 gifts involved animals - most (20) about cats, only a few (4) about dogs, and an appropriately-scarce 2 Bigfoots.
10 gifts were black, beating out the other colors by a pretty wide margin.
9 pins, 12 magnets, 14 stickers, 6 ornaments -- we love decorations, functional or no!
posted by curious nu at 5:40 AM on January 6, 2020 [8 favorites]

Ack! I am sorry my thanks are arriving so late! I worked all over the holidays and came down with a bad cold and have been laying very low.

My quonsarer OneSmartMonkey hit all the spots with my requests. I had asked for souvenirs of the place they lived, and got a lovely mug showing Seaside, Oregon (currently full of hot honey and lemon tea), two fridge magnets for my endless collection (one showing a happy pig about to be devoured at the Pig n’ Pancake), some yummy-smelling handmade soap (did you make it, OSM? It has some flower petals I can’t identify), and some chocolates that I was instructed to keep in the fridge. Because of being all nasally bunged up I have no sense of taste, so I haven’t eaten any of them yet — but I am sure they will be fantastic! (did you make those too?)



I haven’t been to OneSmartMonkey’s part of the world, but I feel I know a little bit more about it now thanks to my Quonsmas package. And I am delighted once again to take part in this lovely Metafilter ritual. THANK YOU!
posted by vickyverky at 3:38 PM on January 6, 2020 [1 favorite]

VickyVerky, the soap was made by a local producer - I suspect the petals might be camas, but I'm not positive. The chocolates are homemade!
posted by OneSmartMonkey at 9:57 AM on January 7, 2020 [1 favorite]

I admit, I had almost given up hope on getting a Seekrit Quonsar gift this year, in particular because I had provided my office address for delivery and as it happens, my company's landlord gave us one month notice in early December; we move offices Thursday, so a late parcel might not have gotten to me at all, even if it arrived to the address.

And then just now my colleague walked into my office with a package for me. It came in an Australia Post mailer; when I opened it up, there was a white-wrapped parcel containing a Japan Post mailer. Inside that was my present, as well as a lovely art card with a note from robcorr! And a copy of Welcome to Country, a travel guide to Indigenous Australia. I've had a quick flip through, and it looks thoroughly interesting. I've been to a few of the places listed inside, like Kata Tjuṯa, on a previous trip Down Under, and I'm really interested in the relationship between settler and indigenous cultures, which is the first half of the book. Thank you so much, robcorr!

I'm not sure what exactly the story behind the multiple mailers is, but if my suspicions are correct, my gift somehow did a triple-continent itinerary of 22,000 km on the way here; no wonder that took a little time - and it arrived in the nick of time, a Quonsmas miracle!

Merry Quonsmas one and all!
posted by Homeboy Trouble at 11:17 AM on January 7, 2020 [2 favorites]

Whoops, I gave my private thanks to my delightful Seekrit Quonsar Champagne Supernova, and somehow missed this thread. But Champagne Supernova went above and beyond, sending me a couple of chocolates and a card to tide me over while a purple guinea pig tshirt was printed for me. I was quite tickled <3. Yay quality community!
posted by DrMew at 12:07 PM on January 7, 2020 [2 favorites]

I’ve just arrived home after visiting family interstate for the holidays, so I apologise for this late thank you to my Secret Quonsar…

The little paintings are absolutely beautiful and I will use them to brighten up my desk at work. And the little Lego flower was a lot of fun to build with my daughter!

Thanks so much!
posted by robcorr at 4:31 PM on January 8, 2020 [1 favorite]

Quonsmas has arrived! Thank you so much, lizbobiz for the awesome pasta and art books. I'm having a hard time deciding if I want to pack one for my upcoming flights to the states or save them both for my jet-lagged return.

An idle stats question for the Quonczars which may or may not be answerable - was the Europe pool smaller this year? My curiosity is piqued since lizbobiz got me for the second year in a row, and I got 15L06 for the second time in a row as well :)
posted by romakimmy at 8:46 AM on January 9, 2020 [1 favorite]

My package arrived on Monday (Epiphany), the tree was (and is!) still up, and it was snowing lightly!

From Rio de Janeiro, I received Leonormand cards, a Brasil friendship bracelet, and a lovely metal scapular. The scapular's two tiny medals have a picture of a red-caped knight on a white horse. On the reverse side of each pendant is engraved "O semhor te abrencoe e te guarde" -- "The Lord bless you and keep you."

Thank you, Adam, so much!!
posted by jgirl at 3:44 PM on January 10, 2020 [1 favorite]

An idle stats question for the Quonczars which may or may not be answerable - was the Europe pool smaller this year? My curiosity is piqued since lizbobiz got me for the second year in a row, and I got 15L06 for the second time in a row as well :)

It was pretty small this year. SQ policy is to delete information from year to year, so I don't think I have anything to compare that with (tho julen may have recorded it somewhere I'm not seeing). That also means we don't know if a person has been paired with someone before, unfortunately.

I do have some thoughts on how to make the matching a little more robust, though, so I will endeavor to make things a little more random. =)
posted by curious nu at 5:17 PM on January 10, 2020 [2 favorites]

I know my Quonsee got their package and was waiting until Christmas to open it, and that's the last I heard. I hope this doesn't mean they hated what was in it!
posted by SisterHavana at 12:42 PM on January 11, 2020

SisterHavana, I'm in a similar situation -- my Quonsee received their package and was waiting to open it, but I never heard anything further.
posted by Annabelle74 at 5:45 PM on January 11, 2020

I have been second-chance Quonsed by miles per flower, who sent an intriguing dystopian novel, pens, and r-e-a-l-l-y nice chocolate. Thank you very much to miles per flower, and everyone who has done so much to make this event happen!
posted by Multicellular Exothermic at 6:19 PM on January 15, 2020 [4 favorites]

It's the happiest time of the year! I got an awesome package from jedicus, with an amazing build-your-own knife kit, and super cool vintage guitar shop themed hat and shirt. Thanks!
posted by signal at 2:44 PM on January 16, 2020 [4 favorites]

In an incredible comment-proximity moment: thank you to signal for sending an adorable and evocatively aromatic model boat (is it cedar?) and a beautiful and hopeful note all the way from Chile to Hong Kong!

PS: A general shoutout to our literally world-spanning contingent of 'international' Quonsees/Quonsers and our multilingual wrapping, cryptic customs notes and long shipping times keeping the Quonspirit flowing long into January. 🌏
posted by mdonley at 7:44 AM on January 17, 2020 [4 favorites]

I got my second-chance Quonsar gift this morning, and thank you so, so much, Quonsar elves!! This is so amazing. I love everything and am looking forward to using the notecards for the card exchange!
posted by odd ghost at 9:03 AM on January 17, 2020 [2 favorites]

mdonley: yay! Not sure what wood it is, though cedar (cedro) sounds about right. Merry Q-Mas to all.
posted by signal at 12:26 PM on January 17, 2020 [2 favorites]

Big thanks to limeonaire (I think?) for the huge box of snakes, candies, snakes, cakes, fortune cookies, snakes, moleskin, snakes, postcards, snakes and snakes! It was great fun to unpack and the best Christmas present I've gotten in a long while.

I'm guessing the postcards are your own making? Looking forward to using those – thanks a bunch!
posted by monocultured at 2:57 AM on January 19, 2020 [3 favorites]

I have been quonsed! Thank you, anonymous quonsar, for bringing a ray of joy into an otherwise flat and dreary January day. I hope your 2020 is full of hope, joy, and delight!
posted by skycrashesdown at 10:33 AM on January 19, 2020 [1 favorite]

I am HORRIBLY late in posting my thank you (I got a truly wretched case of the flu leading up to the holidays and completely forgot), but thank you so much to my quonsar!!!! I particularly enjoyed the the fantastic magnets (yay Die Hard, the best of the Christmas movies!), which have pride of place in our eclectic collection. Quonsmas is a wonderful reminder of the kindness of strangers on the internet, and of the good things in this world, which are both much needed in these painfully interesting times.
posted by Go Banana at 4:58 PM on January 19, 2020 [2 favorites]

I came home from a run to find that Quonsmas had landed!

Thank you so very much to rangefinder 1.4 for the absolutely *delightful* note and the wonderful gifts. This was also an anniversary, for I was rangefinder1.4's quonsee in 2010! (argh 10 years!)

So great. Thank you again. I hope your 2020 is exceptional!
posted by gaspode at 10:04 AM on January 21, 2020 [2 favorites]

Hooray! I was so tickled when I got your name again, gaspode. 10 years older, sure, but also 10 years wiser!

Thanks to the quonczars again for making this event happen and I'd also like to thank bondcliff for his 200% level enthusiasm for Secret Quonsar, and for helping to convince me to participate again this year. I'm glad that I did.
posted by rangefinder 1.4 at 9:08 PM on January 21, 2020 [5 favorites]

A very very special thank you to lasagnaboy for resending despite epic post office delays! This was wholly unexpected and a wonderful surprise this afternoon. I'm so sorry the post office did whatever strange thing they did with the package, and I really appreciate that you sent it again despite that setback! The gifts are amazing and I cannot wait to try out the pen. Thank you!
posted by odd ghost at 4:18 PM on January 22, 2020 [2 favorites]

I have been quonsed by second chancer angiep! Beautiful pottery, a fridge magnet made of recycled materials and a great lip balm. All locally made. It is exactly what I wanted, thank you.
I would also like to thank my original quonsar, I'm sure whatever you sent was great and I hope wherever it ended up someone is enjoying it.
posted by sgrass at 5:49 PM on January 22, 2020 [2 favorites]

You're more than welcome, sgrass! Officially, the pottery cups are listed as "wine/juice cups" but I thought candles, condiments, or paper clips could all work. But the colours are absolutely evocative of the landscape hereabouts.
posted by angiep at 5:50 AM on January 23, 2020 [3 favorites]

On January 25 I was second-chance quonsed by Capricorn- my first Quonsmas ever. So excited to pick up the box at the post office & hurry home with it! and what to my wondering eyes should appear? A pup-themed puzzle; a tiny perfect model ‘dog park’ with wee little dogs; lovely warm socks for my cold feets; and delicious tea that I love: all with a lovely card & note. Thank you Capricorn! you are the best.
posted by cabin fever at 3:00 PM on January 27, 2020 [4 favorites]

I am guessing I'm the final Quonsee (due to 2nd chancing/a long trip away from home) but best was saved for last - thanks so much romakimmy for the Susie Boyt (maybe my fave living author?) novel and the terrific-sounding Shawn Levy book on the movie industry in 1960s Italy. I cannot wait to dive in!

And thanks to all the Quonsar wranglers and other participants for making this thread such a joy.
posted by Gin and Broadband at 6:04 AM on February 5, 2020 [4 favorites]

In a late Quonsmas miracle, I have been received a package from my original Quonsar. Thank you for the tea and keychain, I enjoyed the photo to prove it was a local purchase!
posted by sgrass at 4:06 PM on February 9, 2020 [2 favorites]

I went ahead and cleared out all the address records, so SQ 2019 is officially wrapped up! If for some reason anything comes up, please memail me. Thanks again, everyone. =)
posted by curious nu at 8:10 AM on February 29, 2020 [12 favorites]