Swap-bot Time: November 30, 2024 11:05 pm
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Fill My Home With Christmas Cards Swap

Launch gallery slideshow

Fill My Home With Christmas Cards Swap
Swap Coordinator:Nannabakes (contact)
Swap categories: Crafts  Handmade  Card Making 
Number of people in swap:171
Location:International
Type:Type 2: Flat mail
Rating requirement:4.90 (unrated swappers allowed)
Last day to signup/drop:November 15, 2013
Date items must be sent by:November 30, 2013
Number of swap partners:10
Description:

I always seem to send out heaps of Christmas cards and only get a few in return. So this year I would like to do a swap where you will send out as many as you receive.

FOR THIS SWAP YOU ARE TO SEND 10 CARDS TO 10 PEOPLE. THIS MEANS YOU SEND A TOTAL OF TEN CARDS, AND YOU RECEIVE A TOTAL OF TEN CARDS.

YOUR CARDS MAY BE STORE BOUGHT OR HANDMADE. (I will also be doing a swap for handmade cards only)

In the card I'd like you to tell the recipient a little about your type of Christmas, whether you spend it with family or not, whether you get snow or not, describe your Christmas tree, that type of thing. Make sure you send wishes for a lovely Christmas too.

Be reminded that for some people Christmas is a very religious event, for others it is not, so please comment on your profile or comment below if you prefer not to receive a religious card.

This is an international swap because there's excitement in receiving a card from overseas, but beware that the associated postage costs for sending 10 cards may prevent some from entering this swap. PLEASE ONLY ENTER THIS SWAP IF YOU CAN COMMIT FULLY TO IT. Newbies will be allowed to enter if they have a full profile, but flakers will be named and their ratings affected.

If you have any questions, please ask them below and I will answer them as quickly as I can. Let's have fun and possibly make someone feel a little more loved this Christmas :)

Discussion

jburb 09/12/2013 #

Is there any restrictions on the cards? Like can I use cards I got from Target that came in a pack of 50? Or should I get a sturdier card?

Nannabakes 09/12/2013 #

Any card is fine in store bought styles, as long as they are nice and new, not used.

chitownlady15 09/12/2013 #

I just want to understand before I join. This a total of 100 cards, right?

Nannabakes 09/12/2013 #

No @Coffeegirl1998 just ten cards in total, one to each partner that you have :)

Lizard 09/17/2013 #

Please no comedy cartoon type for me. Religious most welcome, but also Snowmen, Rudolph, etc - I'm not a total prude.

Carolinnadias 10/ 3/2013 #

Can I use ATC cards?

thdelgado17 10/ 3/2013 #

I don't mind religion, funny, any cards are fine excited ;)

Nannabakes 10/ 3/2013 #

@ Carolinnadias I think for this swap something more the size of a normal Christmas card is better, if you'd like to enter my hand made Christmas card swap though, the atc sized ones would be excellent :)

sunshinegirl76 10/ 6/2013 #

LOL I don't think an ATC and a Christmas card are quite the same thing, but it's definitely original!

AmyCeltic 10/ 6/2013 #

Can I make a request? This isn't absolutley necessary, but if it's possible, can the sender's denote somehow that it's Christmas on the envy? I would like to save mine up until Thanksgiving, and open them when I am doing my Christmas trimmings. If that's okay... Again, this is only suggestion, as I am grateful for everyone that sends me a card... I would just like to save them for a special time is all.. Thank You!

Nannabakes 10/ 7/2013 #

Hi @AmyCeltic sounds like a nice idea, remembering these cards won't be going out till after the 15th of November anyway, so I thought the timing would be about right to have them right in the Christmas season anyway :)

sherheart 10/10/2013 #

I am okay with traditional and religious cards. Please no humor or macabre.

mycatbutters 10/10/2013 #

Do participants have to read all these comments to see if someone doesn't want a card with 'humor' or 'cartoons' since it's not in your description. This sounds fun but people are being super picky when the host has only asked for people to state religious or non-religious.

deedee62 10/11/2013 #

I was always taught , be thankful for what you receive. This is why I appreciate what ever comes my way.

fallpetals 10/12/2013 #

I agree

ThESwEeTiE 10/13/2013 #

Non-religious for me thank you so much... so happy there are so many in this swap.. and I dont mind one but reading through this chat area to see if my partners have written something....lets face it... something SHOULD be in our profiles and the sender SHOULD read that anyway.. right?? CONGRATULATIONS Jen!

Nannabakes 10/13/2013 #

Thankyou @ThESwEeTiE , am so pleased to see so many wanting to join in. This is my own personal way of making sure the art of communication at this time of year doesn't die a slow painful death. To those who have a problem with reading through these messages to see if their partner has a specific requirement, I am sorry but it made perfect sense to me, and if you are in this swap, the chances are you will shortly be receiving some lovely Christmas cards that you should want to read anyway...so just call it practice if you like :)

nightrainboww 10/14/2013 #

I prefer non-religious, but I understand that in smaller cities there might not be a lot of choice in cards. In that case any Christmas card is fine! :)

clkea 10/14/2013 #

I love all kinds of Christmas cards!

Kaylah85 10/15/2013 #

You should do a USA version too :)

PennyBlossom 10/17/2013 #

I am so excited to do this! Are we allowed to send a small something in the card too? like a coin from our country, a tea bag or a small rubber etc? I make jewelery i could send too, or does have to be just the card?:)

FunnerKimberley 10/18/2013 #

I'm so excited for this swap! I HOPE I get some international people sending to me. :D I always seem to send to other countries but always receive from the U.S. No matter what I'm happy for this. I remember our family sending out soooo many cards and getting them during the Christmas season. Now I send and barely receive. I love this. I don't care what kind of card you send. If you are sending from another country I'd love one in your native language! I am happy with whatever I get.

mmansantos 10/18/2013 #

I don't mind what kind of cards I'll receive. I'm fond of Christmas, the meaning and the spirit. Do you think Christmas Trees are religious? I guess not, but... what do you think? Can one send some tiny present inside the envelope? I'm so excited!!!

injuredretired 10/19/2013 #

I realize that some may not want a religious card but if I am on a limited budget and I buy those boxed mixed cards I will try to send those that do not want religious the ones that are the least religious as I possibly can. I think it will be wonderful for my husband to see so many cards coming into the house as we are both disabled and my husband has a very serious back injury in which they will not do surgery on until he looses control of one of his limbs which he has started loosing partial control of his legs and he only leaves the apartment maybe once a month. He is very depressed and feels useless even though I tell him he cannot help being injured the way he is. I think getting Christmas cards coming in and we are very much Christian so religious cards are welcome into our home will lift his spirits greatly. I plan on putting our tree up this year for the first time in a couple years as we did not have room in our old apartment and now this year we actually will have room. I am so happy you are doing this swap. I am looking for anything to help lift my husbands spirits and I am so hoping this will help with it. Thanks for doing this!

Kotekhen 10/19/2013 #

I am joining the swap in the spirit of giving and kindness, not in the spirit of faith and religion - perhaps we can all adopt these traits when considering what to send our wonderful partners, yes? One can lift the spirits of a stranger with a kind word with out it coming from a place of faith, yes?

Kotekhen 10/19/2013 #

(Also as an Aussie, might I nod in an amused manner, in the direction of the title graphic hehe)

Cherryswede 10/20/2013 #

This sounds like fun!

Cherryswede 10/20/2013 #

And the title graphic is ADORABLE!

Babytreese 10/21/2013 #

Should we just include a note as opposed to writing inside one of the cards about what type Christmas we like? We are sending 10 cards...little confused about this part of the swap...thanks!

Paige1900 10/22/2013 #

@nannabakes in the swap requirements you state 10 cards for 10 people...then in your reply to @coffeegirl1986 you state 1 card to 10 people. You should edit the swap with the correction information ( 1 card for 10 people) or you are going to end up with a lot of confused swappers in this. Not everyone reads comments and unless it is corrected in the swap requirements...this could be a recipe for disaster.

sebastian122 10/22/2013 #

Yeah, I thought it was 100 cards total, too.

Melon1789 10/22/2013 #

I would love to take part in this swap, but does my profile need to have more information...

pne 10/23/2013 #

FWIW, I read it as "You will send out 10 cards. And you will send to 10 people." Which works out to one card per person, or ten cards for ten people.

HelenG6 10/24/2013 #

I love both CHRISTian and secular. No fat Santa's though.

Melon1789 10/24/2013 #

I'm happy with whatever card I receive :) ... And I've found the perfect cards for snailmailers! I'm excite for everyone to receive them!

deedee62 10/24/2013 #

I am making all my cards and starting on them tomorrow. I can't wait.. oh the ideas I have in my head!! :)

sebastian122 10/25/2013 #

"FOR THIS SWAP YOU ARE TO SEND 10 CARDS TO 10 PEOPLE."

So, 100 cards?

CarmicWords 10/25/2013 #

Christmas is special for me/us, but we do not celebrate the religious aspect of the season. I would prefer not to receive religious cards, but I am open to any others - including fun, comedy, basic, and homemade cards.

VaGrammy66 10/26/2013 #

I will love any card I receive.

catchahug 10/27/2013 #

What is christmas to you ? The birth of jesus I thought id love any christmas card just to receive is wonderful. Thanks

emilie38 10/27/2013 #

I would like to receive any style of card, they are all beautiful. I usually send out about 35 to 40 cards and get about 15 to 20 back so I am glad I will received just as many as I send this year. lol

emilie38 10/27/2013 #

I will type a small letter describing how we celebrate, etc. etc.and insert it in a Christmas card that I have signed as my handwriting is terrible, and I mean terrible. Anyone that has received swaps from me will definitely agree. Please do not take it as a lack of respect.

sunspot 10/27/2013 #

So have we confirmed it's 1 card each to 10 people??

Also, I'm going to pretend that all these cards are birthday cards, since my birthday is so close to Chirstmas that my friends and family have a tendency to forget me most years. Thanks for remembering me this year, everyone! ;)

jkmom2 10/28/2013 #

Any kind of card is fine by me. I love celebrating Christmas! This will be my 4th swap I am participating in but sounds like a lot of fun!

jburb 10/28/2013 #

If someone says that they like religious, do I have to send them a religious card even if I don't like religious ones?

lettergirl 10/30/2013 #

I like only religious cards with cartoons with only red envelopes in black ink only. No square cards or cards that say Christmas on them. Only Noel. And they must be in French. And you must apply a quarter teaspoon of glitter to the outside of the card, without using glue.

GrammaSherry 10/30/2013 #

Good Grief - dropping due to DRAMA - it's Christmas Cards people - not rocket science!

Paige1900 10/31/2013 #

Well the host should come address all the concerns and there would be no drama...oh wait this is Swap-Bot yes there would be drama. LOL

lettergirl 10/31/2013 #

I myself was actually just kidding. I don't care if anyone sends me a Christmas card with Christ, Santa, cartoons, religions, Frosty, Noel, Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas, black envelopes, red envelopes, printing, letter, form letter, chain letter, white envelopes, white people, no envelopes, presents, humor, seriousness, commercialism, trees, animals, dolphins, or extras. I just want them to know when I'm kidding, send the card, and not pass on junk just to get a rating, when they could take the time to do it just the tiniest bit nicer.

Plus, people, Christmas is the birth of Christ. It's also commercial. Either one should be fine--it won't make you a bible thumper just to see the infant Jesus in your mailbox. Nor will it make you a disciple of Satan to get a card dedicated to shopping.

redsnodgrass 10/31/2013 #

How will it work if the holiday is religious for the sender and the note shares that with a possible receiver that does not want a religious card? Will the note have to change per receiver?

redsnodgrass 10/31/2013 #

How will it work if the holiday is religious for the sender and the note shares that with a possible receiver that does not want a religious card? Will the note have to change per receiver?

FunnerKimberley 11/ 1/2013 #

lettergirl you crack me up! I knew you were kidding immediately.

I however am dropping from this swap. Seriously, with all these particulars, there is almost NO way to please all 10 swappers.

BoatmanSmermaid 11/ 1/2013 #

Anything is appreciated

Nannabakes 11/ 1/2013 #

OK, SO SEVERAL WANT CLARIFICATION, SEVERAL WANT PERMISSIONS AND SEVERAL ARE JUST TOTALLY CONFUSED. HERE ARE THE ANSWERS I HOPE.

I CANNOT DO A USA ONLY VERSION OF THIS SWAP, AS I AM NOT AMERICAN.

YOU ARE SENDING 1 CARD TO TEN PEOPLE, SO A TOTAL OF TEN CARDS, TEN STAMPS...OK? THE CARDS CAN BE ALL THE SAME CARD OR ALL DIFFERENT, YOUR CHOICE. NO, AN ATC IS NOT A CHRISTMAS CARD, LOVELY AS THEY ARE.

YES IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO INCLUDE A SMALL GIFT FEEL FREE TO DO SO, I WOULD NOT EXPECT IT AS THE SWAP DOES NOT CALL FOR IT, SO IF YOU DO RECEIVE A SMALL GIFT AS WELL AS A CARD, BE NICE AND GIVE A HEART.

AS FAR AS SECULAR OR RELIGIOUS CARDS ARE CONCERNED, SEND IN GOOD TASTE, THAT SHOULD ALLEVIATE ANY FORESEEABLE PROBLEMS. INTERPRETATION CAN ONLY GO SO FAR, IF YOU HAVE A PROBLEM WITH THIS MAYBE THIS SWAP IS NOT FOR YOU.

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO WRITE A NOTE INSTEAD OF A MESSAGE INSIDE THE CARD, DO SO, AS LONG AS YOU COMMUNICATE SOMETHING ALL IS WELL.

IF YOU WANT ALL YOUR CARDS TO BE EXACTLY THE SAME THAT YOU ARE SENDING OUT, DO SO. IF YOU DON'T, THEN MIX THEM UP, YOUR CHOICE! THE SAME APPLIES TO LETTERS OR MESSAGES.

IF YOU HAVE A REASONABLE QUERY THAT I HAVE NOT COVERED HERE, FEEL FREE TO MESSAGE ME OR LEAVE A COMMENT HERE AND I WILL TRY TO GET BACK TO YOU QUICKLY, BUT I MAKE NO PROMISES, I HAVE BEEN SUPER UNWELL AND SOME DAYS CAN'T EVEN THINK BEYOND GETTING UP AND DRESSED.

IF YOU ARE ONLY HERE TO BE A DRAMA QUEEN, PLEASE USE THE DOOR TO YOUR RIGHT BECAUSE YOU'VE MISSED THE ENTIRE REASON FOR THE SEASON.

mcasanovas1 11/ 1/2013 #

I'm easy. Send me any type of card.

AnnieB 11/ 2/2013 #

SO, one more question, are these to be folded cards then? no postcards?

Nannabakes 11/ 2/2013 #

Yes AnnieB, folded cards please

user2637 11/ 3/2013 #

The Swap-Bot FAQs state that a host cannot dictate when hearts should be given. Just FYI.

ThESwEeTiE 11/ 3/2013 #

Nawww.. I think I see a 'Drama Queen' in a Santa suit :p

(this is me being funny.... please dont take me seriously.... I am just venting and trying to be comical... oh and BTW... if you read my status you will find out whether I prefer religious cards or not :p ) Let me be the first to wish you all A VERY MERRY CHISTMAS - after all, it is the 3rd of November... and its what people like :p XOXOXOX

SatisHuman 11/ 3/2013 #

I prefer secular cards but will not freak out if I receive a religious one.

shesaidburn 11/ 3/2013 #

Hey I'm new to swap-bot but have been searching for a Christmas card swap! I am very keen and have joined on =]

I live in NSW, Australia and am open to all cards!

Thanks x

Momskii 11/ 4/2013 #

lettergirl, I would love to receive a card from you, any kind. I think it would be great if we were to be partners. Love your sense of humor.

Rarie61 11/ 5/2013 #

I would like to join in this swap, as a newbie from Southwest Arizona where we have to dream of a snow. I think I can get a handle on the details.

carolynne99 11/ 6/2013 #

I have to work Christmas so all I can do is put the cards on my door so any thing you send will be welcome .. How about a cat in a hhat ? Merry Christmas Carolynne

HelenG6 11/ 7/2013 #

I don't mind Christian, or secular. You can see my profile for specifics.

joebob778 11/ 7/2013 #

I just joined, I'm so excited! I love mail :) Any kind of cards make me happy!

danushaj 11/ 7/2013 #

I'm joining and happy to receive any type of card, as long as it is from the heart and in the spirit of Christmas. NOTE: with joining about 3-4 of these major swaps, I don't have time to read through EVERYONE's profile to see if they want religious cards or not and I don't expect anyone to do the same for me.

I will be sending out whatever cards I can get my hands on. People should not be so darn picky!!! After all, someone on the other side of the world has taken sometime to send you some Christmas cheer, who cares if there is a picture of a cross or a Santa stuck upside down in a chimney??? If your knickers are going to get so twisted I don't think these are the swaps you should be participatin in, perhaps you could start your own "religious only" swap.

My cards will contain 1/4 teaspoon of glitter adhered to front side if the card only!!!

snailmailer1 11/ 8/2013 #

I've been watching this swap for a while now. I was in two minds whether to join because of all the picky requests. However, I am joining, and I'll send out generic Christmas cards to all 10 partners. I am not reading through requests. Just so you know.

Rarie61 11/ 8/2013 #

Will we be given a list of ten people or do we randomly choose 10 people to mail the cards out to?

I will be happy with whatever card is sent.

Nannabakes 11/ 8/2013 #

Hi @Rarie61 you will be given the information on who you send to :)

ThESwEeTiE 11/ 9/2013 #

Awww Snailmainer1... welcome.. so happy you joined :D isnt this lovely... at this moment 144 people and 132 watching.. that is a LOT of cards!!!! Just think.. together we are keeping postal workers employed!!!! Cheers xo C:

Svet 11/ 9/2013 #

Christmas and New Year are the same or not?

Nannabakes 11/10/2013 #

hi @ Svet , no Christmas and New Year are NOT the same, however if you have a card to send that says 'merry Christmas and happy new year', that is fine :)

moxsapphir 11/10/2013 #

Nannabakes, you are indeed a saint! To everyone else: Santa reads the Swap-Bot Swap Comments pages, so don't be surprised if you get coal -- just sayin'. ;) LOL!

Littletiscrafty 11/11/2013 #

I'm just gonna bite the bullet and sign on up.

Merry Christmas all - I will enjoy ANY type of card you send.

@nannabakes - take your time, read through the profiles before partner assignment and have a wonderful Christmas!

danimariexox 11/11/2013 #

It's really NOT that hard to understand. It said 10 cards to 10 people. Not 10 cards to each partner. I understood it perfectly. Meaning that you send 1 card to each of your partners. Sounds fun! I might join if I have the time. c:

Fawn 11/12/2013 #

So wait no postcards? How about postcard in an envelope?

barbie1950 11/12/2013 #

I have been debating if I should join... I am not going to personalize every card made. I will pile all my Christmas goodies in front of me and make 10 Beautiful Christmas cards, some funny, some glitzy, probably no religious since I don't own any religious stamps or paper, not that i am non religious, just that I buy cute or pretty for Christmas. I am excited to get any and all cards from my partners.. I am not picky.. I love anything CHRISTMAS.... @lettergirl you are a hoot, I will be sure to put a quarter teaspoon of glitter on the outside of your card....LOL

AmookIslandCreations 11/12/2013 #

Religious or secular is fine with me! Merry Card Sending everyone!

druideye 11/13/2013 #

I want something sexy like a Christmas pinup! Just kidding (kinda). I will be VERY HAPPY with any holiday theme you send, though I do focus more on Winter Solstice, than Christmas personally but I'm not difficult!

I am grateful for anything I am sent! I put my holiday cards (and any other reason) up all year 'round, for several years now. I wrapped string around a closet door, and hang them there covering the door regardless of holiday and it's always a nice reminder to me that someone thought to send me something. Cause, at least in my case, it's nice to see that someone cares at other times of the year too.

♥

druideye 11/13/2013 #

I was making a joke about the Christmas pinup btw, just to make sure everyone knows I was poking fun at how freakin' picky people are getting!!! If you will be upset if you don't get a certain kind of card, my suggestion is you should host a swap JUST for that type of card if it's going to truly disappoint you if your exact desires aren't met, as this is supposed to be FUN, JOYOUS, and a CELEBRATION regardless of whether you are celebrating religion, winter solstice, snow, shopping, or anything else. :)

I just felt I needed to clarify my post since sometimes people don't get jokes made only in text. ♥

KSENiA 11/13/2013 #

I prefer non-religious cards, which means I'm not really fond of Nativity scenes for example.. And no babies, if it's OK with the sender. But if I get one of those I will like them anyway. It's your card we are talking abou after all. And it's your holiday sperit sharing is the idea of this or any other Christmas swap. Also I don't have any religious cards to send. I live in non-christmasy country, even it is The Country the Nativity happened at the first place :)

KSENiA 11/13/2013 #

@Nannabakes I think understand what @Svet was asking... In Russia people celebrate New year with "Christmas" tree, Santa and presents. The christmas itself celebrated later, in the begining of Jenuary, and means something a bit different. As one who was born in Russia New Year and Christmas is the same in a way...

jensquil 11/13/2013 #

Can't wait to see all the cards!! Anything you want to send is fine with me. Happy Swapping!

provadia 11/13/2013 #

I am not a picky person so please send anything my way although I am not religious. I do please ask if you can, please use postage stamps on the envie! Especially if they are Christmas stamps! Thanks in advance !!!!

emilie38 11/13/2013 #

You have already received a star from me for hosting this swap, it has caused such a variety of !!!!!!! lol

Tinaphage 11/13/2013 #

This is my daughter Leoni's VERY FIRST CHRISTMAS!!! I would like to receive cards for her. I would very much prefer cards WITHOUT a religious theme. If you could write a message about what Christmas meant to you as a child and what it means now, or anything insightful on the holidays, that would be very nice. I have been working on a scrapbook I plan to give her when she is older and I will put the cards in there with everything else having to do with her first Christmas. Thanks!

ThESwEeTiE 11/14/2013 #

Hi everyone... @nannabakes is my real life sister... I just wanted to let you all know.. Jen (nannabakes) is seriously ill...it is a big struggle for her to get to her computer at the moment, I will be going to her home at assignment time to help her to make final sweeps of the list if need be... she is going ahead with this beloved swap... she is so very thrilled that you are all in it... and we both hope that you love all of your cards... @fawn as Nannabakes has already said, this is a swap for actual store bought (or hand made if you are so inclined) Christmas cards. It is not for postcards, sorry. I know you understand. MERRY CHRISTMAS ALL OF YOU C: XOXOXO

simpatica37 11/14/2013 #

I can still participate, and what are the people with whom I'm trading cards

pinkrenegade 11/14/2013 #

Very sorry to hear that @nannabakes is not well ..will lift her up in prayer for healing. Thank you @thesweetie for letting us know, and for helping your sister out.

It has been quite something to read all these posts. Like others, I appreciate the humour from @lettergirl

druideye 11/14/2013 #

If there is anything I can do to help, please let me know. I'd certainly love to get a PM of @nannabakes address so that I can send her a special card, in case she is not one of my partners. I think it would be awesome if a bunch of us flooded her with kind thoughts!

starhiker 11/15/2013 #

wow I have never seen so many comments on a swap! This one was worth the read. Hope you feel better soon nana! your sis is a sweetie to give you a hand.The only cards I have are seasons greeting and joy to the world so if i join thats what I'll send. I'm still thinking about joining.

craftylicious1234 11/15/2013 #

Hope that nannabakes feels better soon and well done on making such a popular swap! Regarding cards I am very easy will accept anything!

craftylicious1234 11/15/2013 #

Hope that nannabakes feels better soon and well done on making such a popular swap! Regarding cards I am very easy will accept anything!

Nannabakes 11/15/2013 #

HI EVERYONE, JUST SITTING HERE ON A PAIN FILLED NIGHT WITH A NEED TO OCCUPY MY MIND, AND FIRSTLY I WANT TO SAY THANKYOU TO THESWEETIE FOR LETTING YOU ALL IN ON MY NASTY LITTLE SECRET, MY DARLING SISTER I WILL DEAL WITH YOU LATER LOL. THANKYOU TO EACH OF YOU WHO'VE SENT WELL WISHES TOO, THEY'RE SO APPRECIATED AND NEEDED RIGHT NOW.

I'VE LOVED READING ALL THE FUNNY BANTER HERE ON THE MESSAGE BOARD, SOMETIMES IT'S SO HARD TO SMILE BUT YOU'VE ALL MADE THIS A JOY RATHER THAN A CHORE.

I'VE BEEN GOING THROUGH THE LIST, AND THERE'S ONE THING I REALLY MUST SAY. I AM SORRY BUT IF YOU HAVEN'T BOTHERED TO FILL OUT YOUR PROFILE AT ALL, YOU'RE NOT GOING TO MAKE IT INTO THE SWAP. I HAVE TO PROTECT ALL MY LOVELY SWAPPERS, AND IT'S A RECIPE FOR DISASTER IF I THOUGHT YOU COULD SEND OUT TEN CHRISTMAS CARDS WHEN YOU CAN'T TAKE A FEW MINUTES TO FILL OUT YOUR PROFILE. SO IF YOU HAVENT ALREADY DONE SO, DO IT NOW IF YOU WANT TO REMAIN IN THIS SWAP, TO SHOW ME SOME COMMITMENT. I'LL BE CHECKING THE LIST A FEW TIMES WITH THESWEETIE BEFORE I FINALLY ALLOCATE PARTNERS, SO YOU HAVE A FEW HOURS LEFT TO GET BUSY.

I DIDNT SAY ANYTHING ABOUT FLAKERS IN THE SWAP INFORMATION BECAUSE I HONESTLY THOUGHT ANYONE WANTING TO JOIN A SWAP SUCH AS THIS WOULD HAVE PRINCIPLES. AND I REALISE THAT KNOWING YOU'VE BEEN FLAKED WONT HAPPEN UNTIL AFTER CHRISTMAS, BUT IF YOU ARE FLAKED ON, LET ME KNOW AND WE'LL WORK OUT A WAY IN WHICH I CAN MAKE THIS EXPERIENCE A HAPPY ONE FOR YOU.

FINALLY, I WANT TO LEAVE YOU ALL TONIGHT WITH A LITTLE ABOUT WHAT CHRISTMAS MEANS TO ME. FOR MANY YEARS I ATTENDED CHURCH EVERY WEEK, TAUGHT SUNDAY SCHOOL, SANG IN CHOIRS OR WITH MY MOTHER AS A DUO. THEN ONE DAY I CAME TO THE REALISATION THAT BEING A CHRISTIAN ISN'T ABOUT GOING TO CHURCH, IT'S ABOUT THE WAY YOU TREAT YOUR FELLOW MAN. THE LAST REAL FAMILY CHRISTMAS I HAD WAS LESS THAN 2 MONTHS BEFORE MY MOTHER PASSED AWAY FROM COMPLICATIONS WITH HODGEKINS LYMPHOMA. SHE LEFT ME WITH A LEGACY OF LOVE TO SHARE WITH ALL THOSE AROUND ME, AND WHILE OUR LARGER FAMILY SPLINTERED AND WENT THEIR OWN WAYS, I TRIED TO MAINTAIN THAT FAMILY IDEAL OF WHAT CHRISTMAS IS SUPPOSED TO BE, WHERE IT'S ABOUT BEING GRATEFUL FOR ALL THE GOOD THINGS IN OUR LIVES, EVEN IF WE DON'T HAVE TOO MUCH. WE'VE HAD LEAN YEARS AND WE'VE HAD PLENTIFUL YEARS, AND IN EACH INSTANCE, WE'VE STILL FOUND ENOUGH TO SHARE WITH SOMEONE LESS FORTUNATE.

THIS YEAR WILL BE DIFFICULT FOR ME, BECAUSE FOR THE FIRST TIME I CANNOT BE THE ONE WORKING IN THE KITCHEN PREPARING ALL THE WONDERFUL FOOD MY FAMILY LOVES AND ENJOYS. I WILL BE LUCKY IF I AM AT HOME WITH MY FAMILY AT ALL AND NOT IN HOSPITAL FIGHTING FOR MY LIFE. I WILL HAVE TO SIT ON THE SIDELINES AND JUST HOPE IT'S ALL STILL AS NICE AS IT WAS WITH ME AT THE HELM. MY WIDER FAMILY EACH HAVE THEIR OWN FAMILIES TO THINK OF, BUT I AM SO FORTUNATE TO HAVE MY SON AND HIS GIRLFRIEND, MY DAUGHTER, AND MY TWO BEAUTIFUL BABY GRANDSONS HERE TO SIT TOGETHER, THINK ABOUT THE YEAR THAT WAS AND THINK ABOUT THE YEAR AHEAD AND HOPE I CAN MAKE IT TO ALL THE WONDERFUL THINGS I HAVE CURRENTLY ON THE BACKBURNER, WAITING FOR ME TO JUST GET WELL.

NEVER FOR A MOMENT THINK THAT YOU WILL HAVE TIME LATER TO MEND FENCES, RIGHT WRONGS OR SAY YOU'RE SORRY, TIME IS NOT GUARANTEED, TOMORROWS ARE NOT PROMISED. EVERYDAY I GIVE THANKS THAT I'VE BEEN GRANTED ONE MORE OPPORTUNITY TO SET MY LIFE IN ORDER, AND HAVE COME TO THE CONCLUSION THAT IF I THOUGHT FOR A MOMENT THAT MY PASSING WOULD OFFER NO PAIN FROM THAT DAY FORWARD TO MY LOVED ONES, THEN I WOULD GIVE UP ALL I HAVE IN A HEARTBEAT. BUT IT DOESNT OFFER THAT, SO I KEEP FIGHTING, I KEEP TRYING, AND I KEEP LOVING. IN THE END THAT'S ALL WE HAVE... LOVE.

Snuggles555 11/15/2013 #

Please get well soon @Nannabakes You are in my prayers!

ShannonArtsyFartsy 11/15/2013 #

I have read through all of the comments above. I have had so many emotions and mixed responses! I have laughed! I have thought to myself "mmm hmmm you tell 'em girl/guy", I got a little annoyed and then read lettergirl's comment and started laughing again! Now I am just in tears! Not just sad and empathetic tears but also tears in response to the moving truth of nannabakes' words. I don't want to join this swap but I will help her angel when it is all said and done.

If I did join this swap I would be thankful for any well wish that I got.

If nothing else I hope that the many many people who are in this swap will honor the sentiment that I think it was intended. Try to give each other some grace. Be loving despite ANY differences! Focus on the haves instead of the have-nots. Be gracious.

<3

KarlaKC 11/15/2013 #

Jen ( @nannabakes ), I am sorry to hear you are not feeling well. I can commiserate. My little girl has been sick for 3 weeks now and though I RARELY get sick, I have been hit! Ugh! Yesterday I was in bed most of the day (as much as a mom with 4 children can be - thank my Lord for the help of the older children!) and today I can't stand to be in bed, but I am taking it easy and hanging out on the computer. It's about all I can do. Regardless, I am feeling the Christmas spirit and am joining your swap. Created a couple of my own, too (for any who enjoy matchbox swaps)!

Sending you "Get well soon" wishes and hoping the same for myself and my little girl! :)

crbertsch 11/15/2013 #

I am a newbie and signed up for the swap and still plan to do it but I'm concerned, there are many people asking for specific cards such as a religious card, but if I send non religion Christmas cards (because I bought boxes of cards), will they rate low? Personally, I'm extremely happy to get whatever card someone takes time out of their day to sit down and write to me.

@nannabakes you are in my thoughts.

ThESwEeTiE 11/15/2013 #

@crbertsch on behalf of nannabakes, welcome to this magnificent swap! 190 PEOPLE ARE SIGNED UP (might not all stay though - fill in your profiles everyone!) When we allocate the partners in a couple of hours, it isnt a matter of us choosing who gets whom... its a press of the enter key and voila.. everyone has their 10 partners..... then it is up to YOU to read each persons profile to see if any of them have specified.... now... I personally think that if someone sends me a card with a lovely note inside.... even if it is religious and I have specified non-religious... then they will get a hearted 5 from me - they made the EFFORT! ... I would like to think that everyone will have the heart to be so generous :D <3

ThESwEeTiE 11/15/2013 #

@KarlaKC please get well soon and stay well.. you and your lovely children xo

druideye 11/15/2013 #

If anyone would like to send me a holiday or get well card, or note for @nannabakes , PM me. I will give you my address, and you can send them all to me and I will send one package to her in December.

crbertsch 11/15/2013 #

Thank you @ThESwEeTiE I hope my profile is filled enough to stay apart of this swap :)

rhemashawls 11/16/2013 #

I'd enjoy any type of card. I understand that other's don't want religious or Christian type of card.

lou 11/16/2013 #

In case I am your partner, I do expect the following: (1) all the gift cards from last year that you haven't used; (2) a religious card AND a non-religious card, since I don't know what mood I'll be in when your card comes; (3) a 3-page, single-spaced hand written letter with a typed version enclosed, in case I can't read your handwriting; (4) pictures of all your kinfolk, preferably wearing Christmas clothes, so I can see if I'd 'like' your family.

Just kidding, of course -- Happy Holidays, everyone! HO HO HO

PurpleButterfly 11/16/2013 #

****Going out today but may not be post marked until Monday****

Snuggles555 11/17/2013 #

@druideye - thank you for your kindness. My card will be mailed to you in the morning for @Nannabakes

Snuggles555 11/17/2013 #

PS - @druideye - I am also enclosing a little "xtra" for you and for your kindess to us & @nannabakes Thank you. Sinerely, Susan

ThESwEeTiE 11/25/2013 #

I just received my first card of this swap.. and I am pretty disappointed...

"In the card I'd like you to tell the recipient a little about your type of Christmas, whether you spend it with family or not, whether you get snow or not, describe your Christmas tree, that type of thing. Make sure you send wishes for a lovely Christmas too. "

I am writing my cards by hand and including as much information as I can about our Christmas here... and this first one just says "hope you have a great holiday season and a great new year. take care"

Oh I do hope the next one/s will follow the instructions....

Hope you are all having fun with the swap xoxo

KarlaKC 11/26/2013 #

Ditto, @ThESwEeTiE Pretty disappointed with my 1st card received for same reason. Reminded me to do better for my partners.

I did receive one yesterday that left me smiling big.

So there are swappers out there paying attention to the details of the swap they signed up for. :)

Have a beautiful holiday season and may all your cards received bring you joy!

pinkrenegade 11/26/2013 #

Yesterday I received 2 of the cards and one wished me a wonderful Christmas and the other had a small description. But even with a small description of what she does for Christmas, it made this person's card more personal and I really liked that. At first I was wondering if I read the swap wrong about describing your own Christmas to others, when I went back to look. ...I guess people are in a hurry... it's so nice to take a moment or 3 and make things feel more close, more friendly.

One thing for sure is I really enjoyed this swap. Thank you @nannabakes

KarlaKC 11/26/2013 #

So the question is, what do you rate the someone who just writes "To:..." and "From:..." and the name of the swap inside the card and no handwritten sentiment nor note of any kind as the swap description calls for. I understood the part about writing something of your Christmas as a requirement. Was it an option?

I am not a grinch and appreciate whatever I get, and definitely want to keep the Christmas spirit. But on the other hand, we should all be taking care that we are READING what is required of the swaps we are joining and making sure we are DOING all requirements before sending our swaps.

Can I really give a 5 both to someone who did follow the swap description and to someone who didn't?

It's not a rhetorical question. I cannot. And I'm disappointed to be put in this position to have to consider whether I'm being "too picky". :(

For those of you who wonder what am I going to do meanwhile, I'll PM my partner to let her know she didn't complete the swap as written. I hope you all will hold each other to the same standard, Christmas season or not. It being the holidays should not give us reason to not do our swaps completely and not be doing our best. But I understand in the rush of the season, we sometimes overlook things.

Thank you to those swappers who diligently look after their swaps being sure they are at the least fulfilling the requirements. And kudos to those who go above and beyond! Look over your swap requirements before you send to be sure you're doing all you signed up for.

And have a wonderful holiday season, everyone!

jkmom2 11/27/2013 #

Not sure how to rate when you receive a postcard? I think as long as it is a handwritten message I will rate a 5. Jen - I hope you are feeling better!

Fawn 11/29/2013 #

Many people have written a message on a computer and just printed it out and attached to the card. That is quite disappointing and I don't really know how to rate those people. I mean sure, they've followed the swap description in a way but still.. It sort of loses the personal touch if everyone gets the same printed message.

KSENiA 11/29/2013 #

@Fawn don't you think you should be a bit more understanding to people, who don't have enough free time to hand-write a personal message on 10 cards, at that time of year. Please, remember we all have lifes, jobs, families outside the swap-bot!

GrammaSherry 11/29/2013 #

I received a card today with a happy holiday and a signature. I am giving this person a 5. Don't need don't want a story. I signed up for a card.

YAY @ksenia

Fawn 11/30/2013 #

@KSENiA I guess you're quite right although I too am a busy student and I have a job, friends, family and hobbies. I can still spare two minutes per person to write a little message :) But I do understand, life can be hectic. I'm just interested in the people behind the cards as well, not only the cards themselves.

clkea 11/30/2013 #

@Fawn Another possibility regarding typed notes. Because of health issues, such as arthritis, some people are not able to hold a pen because of the pain. I know a few ladies who have this problem and they have had to give up so much because of it.

Suzy 12/ 2/2013 #

I am so confused on how to score people. So who we receive is not who we send to? Because I am getting ones that are not on my list to send to. LOL Suzy

crbertsch 12/ 2/2013 #

@Suzy in the box at the top right, right underneath "see the partners you send to" click on "rate your partner's and coordinator", those are the people who got you as a partner. Hope that helps.

ThESwEeTiE 12/ 2/2013 #

Hi all, so far I have received 3 of my cards.. one said practically nothing, one was with a typed out letter and one was a postcard.... each one witll get a 5.. they SENT them... a heart will go with the typed out letter because I know (from my own aching hand) how hard it is for some to write so much... I wont be giving a 3 for anything sent... only a 1 if i never receive... so that's how I am doing it.. I spoke with Nannabakes (Jen) about this the other day, she was confused and worried about the scoring too... so I hope this helps some... On another note, Jen is still having massive health problems but is so very grateful for everyone's thoughtfulness... she will write here soon I guess.. she does read the notes here :D Hope everyone is getting excited about Christmas in their own way... I am trying really hard to stay cool. not easy in summer. in the tropics :D Cheers xoxo

GrammaSherry 12/ 3/2013 #

My apologies to all. I did not read the details. All cards have been sent but with happy holiday greetings and not a story. I have been asked to resend 1 card so far and will do so for anyone else as requested - despite the high cost of postage. I am not a flaker - more so not a detail person. Please advise.

I too have received a postcard and a happy holiday greeting card - both will get 5 - its about receiving a card.

Lizard 12/ 5/2013 #

I typed my description my Christmas traditions/food/etc

I am unable to write much due to arthritis.

I am disappointed that some of the cards I've received only say "Happy Holiday" --- ummm, which holiday are the senders referring to? I thought we were sending Christmas cards, thus Merry Christmas is appropriate.

Worst of all though, no description of how you celebrate your Christmas - and that was part of the swap.

Disappointing. Will rate 5 so as not to ruin you ratings, but please read swap descriptions in future and be prepared to stick to the rules of the swap.

rant over

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!!!

Lizard 12/ 9/2013 #

@Nannabakes Well done! almost 200 swappers and only 3 flakers. Would you like me to angel them?

pammykn 12/11/2013 #

re-sent @coffeegirl1998 on 12/12; 1st sent on 11/18 & hadn't rec'd.

pammykn 01/ 3/2014 #

Did not hear from @coffeegirl1998 if she rec'd 2nd card sent. Did not receive from @lingg

moxsapphir 01/19/2014 #

I only didn't get from one, but she & I have had several good trades. I let her know it never arrived, but could not rate her at all - since I received nothing.

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