I shop the sales at the local quilt stores and places like Joann's, I pick up notions, fat quarters, patterns, small crafty sewing kits and other related sewing items. The other thing I do is research cute projects that I will make and add. I always add a few hand made items along with what I purchase. I have a bin that I add items to all year long, so by the time the swap starts and I have a partner's name and see their list of likes/wants/dislikes, etc, it's usually fairly easy for me to built onto that for a nice S.S. package that I send out several weeks before the deadline.

Sewing Sew I love the wooden Nickel, that would be a great incentive to give my granddaughter for her to be good!

Collecting for Secret Swaps for quilting to me is like the Birthday Box that I keep filled with goodies, This came in very handy when my kids were little and they were invited to a Birthday party. I still keep a birthday box only now it has a lot more quilty type items in it! I have a lot of friends who quilt and having a quick small gift on hand is just a nice thing to do. Almost anything that I find on sale or Items that I think are useful but easy to mail go into my "Birthday Box"

In my mind giving is the fun part, getting is the bonus :thumbup:

I know it has been incentive for me to be good, because, by nature, I am as naughty as they come, but after Santa gave me this wooden nickel--well let's just say it changed everything!

I used to take advantage of sales and put things aside for birthdays or Christmas, but the problem I ran into is that I wanted to give the toys to my kids early, and usually I couldn't resist the urge. I too think that the best part of the fun is in giving. I'm not saying that I don't love surprises myself, but there is nothing like seeing someone's face light up when I give them a gift, and when it is a child that I'm buying for, there is something magical about it! The greatest part of Christmas joy is from making others happy.

Will have my grandson come up and show me how to do the info. Not computer smart. Missed last year due to breast cancer. Don't want to miss another year. Love doing the Secret Santa.

I'm a newbie, and I'm in. I love surprises in my mailbox!

I'm in again. This will be my 4th year. I love giving so I am putting together my package now and will tweak when I get my name! So much fun reading everyone's hints and extra suggestions.....

I just sent my PM. I can't wait. I did this a couple of years ago and it was so much fun.

Hi Everyone...............I am back & as usual I am in for Secret Santa. I can hardly wait to get my name. Thank You Terri for putting this event together again!! :D :D :D :D

Also,Thank You Cindy for letting me know that it is time to sign up.