The Idea A fandom Secret Santa -- we give each other stories, artwork, essays. Very simple -- Email me (amethyst.sh@gmail.com) or PM me here, with what you want and what you can give. After I have everything, I'll match up what people want and what they can give, and give you your prompt and medium. Once you are done with what you've, you send them to me. I'll post all submissions here for the receiver and everyone else to enjoy. After all gifts have been posted and enjoyed, and we've guessed who gave what, Givers will be allowed to reveal themselves. After they have had a few days to reveal, I'll post the master of who asked for what and who drew whom. The Specifics 1. Anytime between now and October 10, 2010 email or PM me with the following. -- Choose two or three prompts -- a Medium or two* -- if choosing an fanfic or an essay, choose a team* -- What you can give** 2. By October 15, you will receive from me a gift request 3. Send me the completed gift by December 15. 4. I'll post the gifts between December 15 and December 20. 5. People can reveal themselves to the recipients on December 26. 6. I'll post the master list on January 1, 2011; at that time givers can post their work elsewhere, such as Gatchfanfic or DeviantArt. 7. 2000 word minimum for essays and stories (serial drabbles are okay, unless otherwise specified) No maximum, but please keep in mind that gifts should be complete. If a prompt inspires more, sequels would be enjoyed by all. The Rules If you want something, you have to give something. Please don't post or share^ the gifts with others on other sites until after the master list has been revealed on January 1, 2011 to give the recipients time to enjoy the work first. If you don't want smut or slash, or won't write/draw smut or slash, please say so. Also is you prefer this, just put it in your prompt. If you want to give multiple gifts, you can ask for multiple gifts. * ** ^ * If you want an essay or choose Eagle Riders or GoS (for fanfic or essay), please select one prompt from another and/or for a second team. I will make every attempt to match people with their first choices, but will be limited by what people are able to give. **Prefered Medium -- Art, Fanfiction, Essay, Teams that you are most familiar with for Fanfcitions or Essays ^Check with me before you send something to beta; Also, if you want to participate, but don't really have the time to give, send me an email to volunteer to beta. Please note that if you want to beta, you must also respect the timeline and secrecy, you also won't get a gift of your own, unless you choose to give a gift, too. Finally, if anyone wants to help me with organizing and posting, I'd happily accept a helper to keep back-up files and help with posting. I won't be asking for a gift, but will give if we have an odd number.

Must reread this when my brain is fully functional... too long of work week, and the liquid now runs freely.

Amethyst, I think this is a really nice idea. I love the idea of 'giving' to each other in such a way for the holidays. Thank you for offering to put in so much time and effort to organize it.

Neat idea! I'll definitely send a PM!

One thing that came to mind... you may want to set some guidelines on the minimum length for an essay or fanfic.

Originally posted by Transmute Jun One thing that came to mind... you may want to set some guidelines on the minimum length for an essay or fanfic.

Thanks good idea! How does this sound: 2000 word minimum for essays and stories (serial drabbles okay) No maximum, but please keep in mind that gifts should be complete. If a prompt inspires more, sequels would be enjoyed by all.

Also, big THANK YOU's to MeridianDay for generously volunteering to help me with organization.

Such a great idea, Amethyst! Thanks a lot for your effort! I hope I'll have time to contribute ... need to read the instructions more carefully for further guidance! I also assume that gifts must be original and nothing that has already been done?

Great idea, Ame!

Thanks, guys. I'll admit this isn't an original idea. I've seen it done with great success at another fandom, and thought we'd enjoy it over here. Yes, all works should be original based on the prompts given. However, that usually leaves a lot of room to play with.

Witha fanfic, you might want to have a guideline that it shouldn't have been read by others, and would be allowed to be posted for all only after the person it's sent to get's a chance to read it.

I thought, I had that in there, but will go back and clarify that. Thanks, Gatchgirl.

NP Amethyst... Just reread your first post and you did say something like that... told ya the liquid flowed to easily last night. Pretty bad when it was only 16oz. worth

Just a reminder, 10 more days to sign up. If you have a question about something, please feel free to ask here or send me an email or PM.

I hope a lot of people sign up! This is the kind of thing where it gets better, the more people who participate!

thanks for the rewarning amethyst...

Thanks for the reminder, Amethyst! I'm taking some time to decide since I'm juggling with many tasks in hand right now, and I want to make sure that if I were to make a commitment I would be able to keep it! I cannot deny my great desire to be able to give a humble gift of mine to someone special, though, knowing that each and everyone on this board is likewise! Things are getting quite hard for me, as time passes, but I surely have to make up my mind regarding this opportunity you have kindly given us, taking into consideration that I so wish to participate, wishing to share the joy with everyone!

If I knew you were giving me a gift, Marie, I'd definitely ask for a cake!

Originally posted by Transmute Jun If I knew you were giving me a gift, Marie, I'd definitely ask for a cake!

LOL ... when opportune, those make great gifts, which I like to give to friends, or take with me when I'm invited! But, alas ... it's not possible in this case ... if only I could I would surely have considered it as an option, though!!

Only a few more days left! I've got a bunch of great requests and talented people waiting to give. If you haven't made a request, now is the time to do so. Don't be shy! Don't be worried about that what you want will give away who you are? Just ask and give! The requests go out in just seven days, so even if you are busy right now, you'll have plenty of time to work on it. Even just a few minutes a day can get it done. For those who write stories or essays: by just writing 100 words a day for 20 days, you'll have written a 2000 word essay! And you'll have more than 20 days! Come on, join the fun!

Thanks, Amethyst, for all of the hard work you are putting into this.

Thanks TJ! It's been a welcome distraction at the moment, being able to do this. My life was thrown into a blender three weeks ago and it is finally slowed down to pulse from constant. Anyway, for those of you thinking but not sure, give it a try. Send me your requests today. The more the merrier. Think of all the great artwork and stories and such that will be coming out of this.

Amethyst! I'm glad that things are going better for you now.

I add my own hugs and thanks, also, Amethyst! Hope things will get even more better for you!

They are. This is the first day in a long time that I haven't had to get up and go somewhere and take someone somewhere. Of course now I've got weeks of neglected housework. I've been telling Rick that I've been trying to manage two households and failing miserably. Now I'm starting to see a light at the end of the tunnel and may get to where other people can help me maintain it. Nevermind, I know the others I'm counting on for that; if I can just get caught up, I can maintain it. Ever see a type B personality who's a control freak?

Housework is easy to get behind on. I'm always behind in *some* aspect of housework! But the thing is, one really good cleaning puts you back on top again.

Originally posted by amethyst Thanks TJ! It's been a welcome distraction at the moment, being able to do this. My life was thrown into a blender three weeks ago and it is finally slowed down to pulse from constant. Anyway, for those of you thinking but not sure, give it a try. Send me your requests today. The more the merrier. Think of all the great artwork and stories and such that will be coming out of this.

Sorry to hear you have had such a hard time the last few weeks Amethyst. I too have had a very hard last month, which is why I disappeared form the board for a while. Sounds like you are doing a good thing with this gift exchange. I hope it is successful for everyone. Like you said, I am behind in everything including the house work. At least my pets have been able to keep me somewhat sane and hopeful.

Oh, CD, you know I was wondering just the other day where you had been. That's how bad it's been for me. For a few weeks, other than this thread, not much else existed on line for me. I might have read, but not, much else. I'm taking a real day off tomorrow, but I'll PM you on Thursday.

CD ... I'm sorry to hear you had such a hard time! I've thought so when I've noticed your absence from the threads, and now I'm so glad to see you're back! Amethyst, and even you, CD ... just don't do like me and get freaked out when you're behind in housework! I know well how much this can add to the stress! And, I also know it's more easy saying than doing! I just wish to hear you've both settled down, and have put these past days behind! With the kind of job I do, and even because of my natural character, I'm one who plans a whole week, if not a fortnight, in advance, and when something out of schedule happens, making me swerve from my plannings, I start to panic! It's only now that I'm trying to learn, really slowly, how to prioritise chores, even more now that health issues are involved ... not that it's an easy thing to do, though! And, when I have that day, out of those many, during which I feel filled with energy, I try to take the opportunity and boost my cleaning up, all at one go! It's amazing how much housework you can do when you're in the right spirit!

CD, I'm so glad to see you back here! You were missed!

Thank you Amethyst, GM and TJ! It has taken a comment from someone else to stick my head up and try to reintegrate into society. If they had not said anything I would probably still be sitting at home in the evenings moping and feeling depressed.

Originally posted by clouddancer It has taken a comment from someone else to stick my head up and try to reintegrate into society. If they had not said anything I would probably still be sitting at home in the evenings moping and feeling depressed.

Than I'm glad you listened to them!

I'm glad your back CD... GM, not sure what health issue you speak of, but I hope it improves for you.

Thank you GG. GM, I am sorry but it was not until GG's comment that I realize you mentioned your health has not been the best. I hope you are feeling better soon. It makes me wish even more for that chance to sit down with you and that cup of tea where we can share Gatch stories ... helping you to recover.

Wow, when life hits, it does it with the force of a semi-truck. CD, Marie, I hope things get better soon. On a happier note, I should be sending out the gift requests via PM later tonight or tomorrow. Just for reference, I'm in Northern California, still on Pacific Daylight Time (for a few more weeks) and it is about 6;30.

Thanks again for all that you're doing, Amethyst! It's really greatly appreciated! And thanks to all for your concern! I don't like to talk much about it because, unfortunately, it's something I have to learn to live with, which is difficult, after being used to be a very active, and bubbly person in nature! Just to try to be short, I've got a slip disc in my neck, after having had quite a rough car accident when I was younger, and have lately learnt about having developed the CFS disorder after giving birth ... as if life was not hard enough! These two conditions are the result of great, ongoing pain, fatigue, nausea, and consequent depression ... psst ... do not tell anyone about it!! Nothing that shows at the outside, but much going on in the inside, which is sometimes frustrating! I'm trying to keep the same lifestyle I'm used to, but it's very hard ... you know, with two kids, my ever increasingly demanding job, and all! It's difficult even now for me to write this down because I don't like people to think of me as I have something wrong, that's why it's even more frustrating, sometimes! Because of my own attitude, I keep letting others take me for granted as if I have nothing ... but, I deserve this, me and my hardheaded nature, as this is what I finally want ... to be the best mother for my children, inside and out, and to live life normally! We'll see! P.S. Sorry for having annoyed you, and excuse me Amethyst for such a different subject in your thread!

Originally posted by clouddancer It makes me wish even more for that chance to sit down with you and that cup of tea where we can share Gatch stories ...

Me too. As much as I like that fact that we're from all over the world here, it would be nice if we could sometimes just meet up for tea... Amethyst, CD, glad things are beginning to improve, and I'm glad you're back here, CD! Gatchamarie, it sounds like you have Eagle strength inside.

Marie, you *are* a wonderful mother and a wonderful friend. We enjoy your contributions here, and we are certainly appreciative of your decorating work! I hope the pain subsides and things get better for you. But if it gets worse, remember that we're always here to cheer you up!

Marie I am sorry to hear you have had so much trouble. I can empathize with the "Don't let others know" feeling. Maybe it is that Eagle stubborn Eagle independence in us. OR is that Condor stubborn independence? It is good to hear you realize you know you can't do it all on your own, but I can understand how you would still want to. Don't they say knowing yourself is the biggest step you can take then take the small steps of acting on what you have learned (or want to change.) As TJ says, I hope things improve for you and remember we are always here to give you a smile when you are feeling low.

I know it's trite, but -- Hugs to you, Marie, and I hope things get better for you. There may be a treatment out there for your physical pain. I know that in the US, you can't throw a rock without finding a support group for something, and maybe Malta is the same way. And there's always us, if you just need to rant.

The prompts have been sent out. Most of you should receive them in a PM. If you do not have one, but sent in a request, please let me know. Some of you may receive more than one prompt. If you have, you only have to do one. Please send the gifts to me by December 15, so that they can be posted anonymously for you. Any questions, just ask. Happy writing/drawing!

Oh ... I cannot tell you all how much I wish to hug you! I rarely receive comforting comments as I rarely open up, and I hate excessive commiseration, but, I admit it ... it really does feel good, especially when I know that what you all have said comes straight from the heart! to all! As to treatments ... I've heard so many inconclusive versions, have been given so many types of drugs with repurcussions, and have been told so many "You just have to cope with it until it gets unbearable!", that I've decided to take things in my own hands! If it gets worse, we'll see! Amethyst ... I know you must be getting annoyed to hear this, over and over again, but a million thanks for your dedication!!!!

For all of you going through hard times...a big group hug! Marie, you are so wonderfully positive in spite of your pain, I admire you! I hope it gets better for you as time passes...wish I could make it go away! Amethyst...thanks so much for your hard work with the gift exchange! I am excited to get started on my prompt...this will be a challenge, but I look forward to it!

to you, Springie! ... your lovely company, and gorgeous pics help a lot as a distraction, together with everyone else's!

Group hug for everyone!

to all of us.... and Amethyst, even though I won't be joining in this year.. thanks for getting this started.

Just a friendly reminder to those who are participating. Only about three weeks left to get those gifts done. I've got a few already. Thank you to everyone who is participating in this busy time of year. When everything is done and read, I'll be asking for suggestions for next year.

Thanks, Amethyst! I'm almost done with mine, but need to make a few tweaks.

Just a quick reminder for those of you who haven't got your gifts done: Five for more days! Thanks to those of you who have got your stuff in!!

I am looking forward to seeing the results.

Ame, sent you a PM several days ago and haven't heard back. I forget if we're supposed to e-mail them to you or if we can PM them to you. Mine's done, just need to know how to get it to you. Thanks.

Originally posted by Garnet Ame, sent you a PM several days ago and haven't heard back. I forget if we're supposed to e-mail them to you or if we can PM them to you. Mine's done, just need to know how to get it to you. Thanks.

Replied yesterday. I'm not getting my email notifications for some reason. I think I might need to check my spam settings, but I thought I had this site cleared. Just send me an email: [EMAIL]amethyst.sh@gmail.com[/EMAIL] Attachments are best. Thanks!

Amethyst, I emailed mine to you quite a while ago...did you receive it?

Just sent mine. Hope it reaches you and is readable.

Originally posted by Springie Amethyst, I emailed mine to you quite a while ago...did you receive it?

Yes I did. Thank you! I only have a few more. I think tomorrow, I'll send out private reminders to those few instead of spamming the board. Garnet, I've got your but haven't opened the document yet. The file type should be fine, but will let you know tomorrow if there are any problems with it.

All right, I've heard back from all but two participants. I just sent them PMs hopefully, I'll back from them in the next day or two. If it is all right with all of you, I'll start posting around Friday.

I am looking forward to reading a bunch of new stories and seeing some nice artwork.

Good news! I have all but two gifts. One person had some issues and will have the gift to me by the end of the weekend. The other I have not heard from, but hope to soon, and if not the giftee will still get an appropriate gift. As the fun starts tomorrow, remember to please not announce yourself until the day after Christmas. However, since anyone can comment on these gifts, giving misleading but fun hints are welcome. Constructive comments are always welcome, and so some fangirling/boying. Gifts will be given threads in the appropriate forums: writers block; rubber room; artists palette. Links will be provided here, too, as they are posted. Happy Holidays!

Great! I'm looking forward to this! Thanks for all of the hard work you've put in, Amethyst!

Originally posted by amethyst However, since anyone can comment on these gifts, giving misleading but fun hints are welcome.

Oh, this will be interesting! Thanks for doing this, Amethyst! Looking forward to some guessing fun...

Rubbing hands together in anticipation. I can't wait till tomorrow when all the unvealing begins.

Unfortunately I am going to miss out on all the hints and misleading clues, since after tomorrow I will be heading off on two weeks of well deserved vacation time. I maybe able to check in from time to time, but I will certainly enjoy reading and viewing all the submissions when I get back. I only wish the unveiling could be left until the New Year.

Originally posted by clouddancer I only wish the unveiling could be left until the New Year.

CD, I can easily wait on posting the master list for a few days after the New Year, but we'll leave it for the others to choose whether to draw it out or not. I'm sure that a few will be happy to accommodate you, but some may not be able to due to their own time constraints. Enjoy your vacation!

Cannot wait for the fun, either! Even if I'm being very limited with time, I'll try my utmost to squeeze in as many of the forthcoming goodies in my schedule as possible! Amethyst ... thank you, once again, for your work, and dedication, and for making this Christmas even more special! CD ... I wish you the best for your holidays! Be sure to relax, and enjoy yourself! I'll be very happy to wait for your return!

Okay, here is the first one. In The Artists Palette: War Buds

Amethyst. are we going to know the intended recipients/requestors of these gifts?

Originally posted by Transmute Jun Amethyst. are we going to know the intended recipients/requestors of these gifts?

I was thinking of keeping it double blind until the revelations, but have no problem posting the recipients now if that is what everyone wants. I just have a bit of a glitch to figure out first.

I was only asking, because some people may not know if a gift is for them, or for someone else.

Originally posted by Transmute Jun I was only asking, because some people may not know if a gift is for them, or for someone else.

Good point!

You did get mine, right? And you could post links here, in case we miss any.

Originally posted by UnpublishedWriter You did get mine, right? And you could post links here, in case we miss any.

Yes, I did get yours. And yes, I'll be posting links here to all gifts.

Here's another update. In the Writer's Block

Here's the last one for tonight: Bring your Artistry More to come tomorrow....

Up now we have: Family Ties More to come through out the day!

I'll be reading the rest of these when I have the time. So far, they're very good. (And the one I wrote is so lame.)

UW, if it helps, I often feel like most of my fics are lame too, especially ones written to someone else's request. Fortunately, usually other people aren't as harsh on me as I am on myself.

Here's one more: Christmas Wishes More to come soon.

Here is: What I Wish for Christmas More still to come . . .

And the last one for today: In the Spirit of the Season Still a few more, will get them up over the next few days.

I forgot my prompt.... (So I get to enjoy it all!)

UW ... your work is never lame! Seriously! As no other work around here is! And, if we have to put it like that, I don't know whether there's even a definition for mine!! Like TJ said, I think every writer is self-critic before anything else! I also wish to say that there are two other fics, which already seem most interesting, that I haven't had the time to read yet, consequently not being able to leave any related feedback! I promise to try as soon as possible, though! Cannot wait!

Now we have: Vacation Time There is a reason the recipient of this gift is not listed, but I will not say what that is at the moment.

Knowing your feelings about G2, I know it isn't you. Hmmm.... So many prospects, so few clues.

Originally posted by UnpublishedWriter Knowing your feelings about G2, I know it isn't you. Hmmm.... So many prospects, so few clues.

No, it is not me. Although, I don't mind Ken/Joe slash. Mark/Jason I have a very hard time reading. Go figure. Actually, the intended recipient seems to be out of contact. I just hope she/he is okay.

Last one for tonight: The Mistake Just one more gift to go. That should be up sometime tomorrow. Wednesday at the absolute latest.

Hey Ame, is this last story completely posted? It just seems really short and incomplete. Just curious.

Yes, it is complete, and a bit shorter than what was asked for.

Okay, I believe this is the last one: Delivering Although, this, too, is shorter than the standards asked for.

All right, all gifts are up. Please have fun trying to guess if you'd like. Please try to hold off until at least a day or two after Christmas. A few days after New Years, I'll post the master list. Once that list is up, participants will be free to post there work at other forums if they wish.

Amethyst, I just want to say thank you for all of the hard work you've put into this. I think you've done a great job, and had to deal with a few more administrative hassles than I'm sure anyone anticipated. You started something great, and I hope it becomes an annual tradition here at Gatchamania. So thank you!

I cannot express my thanks better than TJ did .... but, again, THANK YOU Amethyst!! Each day looking forward for something new has made this season even more special! Now see to take a much deserved rest, and enjoy the festivities, resting assured that you made a lot of people happy!

Thank you! I'm glad everyone enjoyed themselves. One thing to think about: Next time we do this, would it have been better to know who you were writing for? I know the one big goof I made could have been prevented this way.

Originally posted by Transmute Jun You started something great, and I hope it becomes an annual tradition here at Gatchamania.

I agree -Thank you, Amethyst, for doing this! In my case, I think I'd rather not know who I'm writing for (though I might have a hunch) as then options for how to write for a given prompt seem more wide-ranging and aren't influenced by what I think a specific person would be expecting.

I would have liked to have known, for the exact reason that LB didn't want to know. I could have taylored the story a bit better. I now know who I wrote for and can see where I should have put more of certain things in and left others completely out. Not really fun to be a shipper and not see any of your favorite couple in clear evidence. I'd have put it in if I'd have known who I was writing for. When we do reveal which story we each wrote, I'm going to offer to rewrite it to the person's liking before posting it anywhere else.

Originally posted by lborgia88 In my case, I think I'd rather not know who I'm writing for (though I might have a hunch) as then options for how to write for a given prompt seem more wide-ranging and aren't influenced by what I think a specific person would be expecting.

I must agree with LB's opinion, in my case! Moreover, I'm one who really loves the surprise factor! But, I won't complain if things go the other way ... I would do my best knowing for whom I might be writing!

Originally posted by Garnet I now know who I wrote for and can see where I should have put more of certain things in and left others completely out. Not really fun to be a shipper and not see any of your favorite couple in clear evidence. I'd have put it in if I'd have known who I was writing for.

Honestly, if the recipient wanted to see that kind of thing, then it should have been part of their request. I woudn't feel guilty at all, as long as you answered the gift request as it was asked. For example, I asked for Eagle/Swan, and that's what I got. But if I'd asked for an adventure/action story, and there had been no Eagle/Swan, I certainly wouldn't have been upset by that! Each person makes a request, and that request relates to what they want to see. So I'm voting that I preferred not knowing the recipient, and simply focusing on the request, rather than on imagining what the recipient might want that they did not state.

I agree w/TJ. Next year, we just be more specific about what we want, if we have a story we'd like to see.

I loved all the stories and next year hope to participate. My daughter is pushing me to finish up 2 of mine so I can share them. I told her after Sat my time should free up a lot. Here's hoping. Great stories everyone! Thank you for all your hard work Amethyst and sharing the delightful stories and Springie's pics. Happy Holidays!

I hope you can participate next year, Pufles, and I look forward to seeing your stories in Birdscramble!

Okay, it's the day after Christmas. Can we let everyone know which story we wrote?

Yes, if you are dying to tell, you may.

I'll name a few of the guesses that I've made as to who wrote what... (I even made a little chart) I'm guessing that gatchamarie wrote "What I wish for Christmas," that RI Girl wrote "Christmas Wishes," and that Maddy wrote the piece with Joe and Simone for me?

I don't know if I'm breaking any rules, but ... LB ... you hit bull's eye! Even though, I didn't have any doubts that I would have been uncovered so quickly with my writing!!

The piece did remind me of the rich and expressive style of "Rain after the Storm"...

You're too kind, LB! ... but, thanks!

Sorry - LB - but I didn't write the Joe and Simone piece!

Guess I'll have to tinker with my chart... It's getting complicated by the fact that I don't know for sure who the recipient of UW's piece is or if that person wrote anything for the Gift Exchange. And that Springie supposedly got the wrong prompt -does that mean that someone else's prompt wasn't given to anyone, or did someone else write for more than one prompt? I'm probably overthinking this!

Originally posted by lborgia88 Guess I'll have to tinker with my chart... It's getting complicated by the fact that I don't know for sure who the recipient of UW's piece is or if that person wrote anything for the Gift Exchange. And that Springie supposedly got the wrong prompt -does that mean that someone else's prompt wasn't given to anyone, or did someone else write for more than one prompt? I'm probably overthinking this!

UW's piece was intended for Lyon, who I've not heard from since the beginning. I'm hoping that it was just real life getting out of hand or computer problems, and not something more serious keeping her from completing the exchange. I ended up covering for her. I also corrected the goof with Springie's prompt so that person got the gift she asked for. Hope that clears up a few things to make your guesses easier without giving too much away.

Ah, that does make it a little easier... Hope Lyon's okay and just really busy with RL.

I hope Lyon's doing okay as well. LB, you're not overthinking this... I've been going around in circles trying to figure out who wrote what as well!

I'm now realising that I might have done wrong by instantly confirming LB's guess regarding my piece, and I hereby wish to excuse myself for any inconvenience! My only excuse is that, in my hurry, I made the mistake of not reading the previous posts from the previous pages, and just replied spontaneously! Sorry again, especially to you, Amethyst!

Well, you helped me out, gatchamarie, by confirming my hunch, and as TJ says, there's still lots of "going around in circles" yet to figure it all out!

Thanks for your kind reassurance, LB! At least, I'm glad I did not manage to ruin everything!

No worries, Marie, as I said at the top of this page, you may tell if you want. So when LB guessed you correctly, there's no harm in agree, as far as I'm concerned.

Your understanding is very much appreciated, Amethyst! What a relief!

Originally posted by lborgia88 I'm guessing that gatchamarie wrote "What I wish for Christmas," that RI Girl wrote "Christmas Wishes," and that Maddy wrote the piece with Joe and Simone for me?

Originally posted by Madilayn Sorry - LB - but I didn't write the Joe and Simone piece!

In light of the new info, did some revising to my chart... Some new guesses: RI Girl wrote the piece with Joe and Simone for me' Maddy wrote "Christmas Wishes'" and Garnet wrote "In the Spirit of the Season"?

hesitantly raises hand. Yeah. You got me.

Originally posted by Garnet hesitantly raises hand. Yeah. You got me.

Ahh... Zoltar having special plans for Keyop alone did suggest to me that it might be your piece. I like how you show that even as G-Force is trying to have a normal, happy family Christmas, Spectra is ever scheming against them -nothing can ever truly be "normal" for them.

And who was the recipient of Springie's picture?

Would you believe that that little bit wasn't even a consicous thing. I was actually trying to be more ballanced than I sometimes am. Oops.

Originally posted by UnpublishedWriter And who was the recipient of Springie's picture?

Well, who requested a RI and Nambu picture? I have yet to read all the stories so I am not sure as yet the content of all the stories. I do remember though right at the beginning Springie wondered if it was RIgirl and RIgirl said no. So it has to be someone else who wanted RI and Nambu. I might have to start making a chart, like LB says to keep track of things.

Guilty as charged with "Christmas Wishes" and I'm glad that TJ enjoyed it.

I was thinking that was yours. I'm going to hazard a guess and say tht TJ wrote Family Ties.

Originally posted by clouddancer

Originally posted by UnpublishedWriter And who was the recipient of Springie's picture?

Well, who requested a RI and Nambu picture? I have yet to read all the stories so I am not sure as yet the content of all the stories.

CD, that was my goof. I accidentally gave Springie and Marie the same prompt. Springie should have recieved Marie's request instead of the one she got.

So am I to understand that Springie and Marie did something for the same person? What was it I read? I think it was LB who said she was guessing Marie wrote for UW ... does that mean Springie's picture is for UW as well? I am just trying to clear things up in my head and on the list I am starting.

Originally posted by clouddancer So am I to understand that Springie and Marie did something for the same person? What was it I read? I think it was LB who said she was guessing Marie wrote for UW ... does that mean Springie's picture is for UW as well? I am just trying to clear things up in my head and on the list I am starting.

Pretty much. Though it was not intended, and I didn't list it as a gift for a specific person to keep things balanced and fair (or at least as much as possible).

Originally posted by amethyst Springie should have recieved Marie's request instead of the one she got.

That isn't a problem, at all ... in that case, Springie has already indirectly amply fulfilled my request throughout the years with her many awesome drawings + fics! I also wish to add that Amethyst was so kind, diligent, and considerate, to tackle the situation immediately, and to go out of her way in order to please me with another gift! I really appreciated the gesture a lot!

Originally posted by Garnet Would you believe that that little bit wasn't even a consicous thing. I was actually trying to be more ballanced than I sometimes am. Oops.

Ah ... when you love something, or someone, it's difficult to push the only thought away! I do the same thing many times, even when I try to go in another direction!

Originally posted by Madilayn Guilty as charged with "Christmas Wishes" and I'm glad that TJ enjoyed it.

She wanted Eagle/Swan, and you have great insight into the dynamics of the Mark/Princess relationship!

Maddy, it's a lovely story, and exactly what I asked for! You did a wonderful job and your work is very much appreciated! Garnet, you're 'hazarding' a guess about me... meaning you're not sure? LOL... I was so worried that my writing style was incredibly obvious that everyone would know! But yes, I wrote your fic.

My first thought had been that it had been RIGirl who had written it, but, as soon as she said she hadn't I knew it had to be you or possibly Maddy, but I didn't think it read quite like her writing. If I haven't gushed enough over this story, I do somemore. I loved the visual description and the emotion in it. I've spent hours speculating on all kinds a events that could have taken place both before the story began and ended. I'd love to know more.

I'd love to know more too! I have ideas of course, but didn't actually lay out a specific outline of what had happened before, other than the general information used in the fic itself. I re-read your request after it was posted, and realized that I had forgotten to address one part of it, which was how the war ended. And you know, I don't know that either... other than that clearly the Federation 'won' enough that the Team all survived and the Federation as well. And if Urgos is no longer hostile, that would imply a larger alliance against Spectra... if they are still an enemy at all. As for what happens afterward, I would like to think that Keyop slowly becomes more comfortable with who he is and his relationships with the others, particularly Princess, Mark and their children. I'd like to think that once he comes to terms with these issues, that he might be a bit less cautious, and therefore more willing to open up his own emotions, perhaps finding happiness in a relationship of his own with a woman, and life outside of his work. Does that help?

Yeah. Sounds like you've been thinking some of the same things I have. I also see a close relationship developing between Robert and Keyop. I think Robert would be the person he would gravitate to for several reasons. Keyop could regain a joy in life and Robert could have a mentor who shares his love of creepy-crawlies. Thanks again, TJ. I love it when a story makes me want to look further into the world it is set in.

Now that I have read through all the stories, I guess I should send a thank you for all your hard work to everyone who participated. As an "observer", I really enjoyed the stories that came from this challenge and look forward to seeing another exchange like this occur. I only wish I could participate next time, so I could receive a beautiful story of my own. I should also send a to Amethyst for all her hard work of organizing and then filling in where needed.

No one has been making any further guesses recently. And I by my records, at least we still have 3 more stories to confirm who they are written by. Or is it that everyone feels they have connected all the pieces? When I look at it, Amethyst and RIgirl have not confirmed that they wrote the stories they were asked about officially making it 5 stories without confirmed authors.

Originally posted by clouddancer Or is it that everyone feels they have connected all the pieces?

That would be me. I think I know who wrote what, but at this point I think I'll wait for Amethyst's master list to see if I'm right...

Originally posted by clouddancer When I look at it, Amethyst and RIgirl have not confirmed that they wrote the stories they were asked about officially making it 5 stories without confirmed authors.

Sorry about that CD, the Christmas clean-up was almost as stressful as the prep. My mother has a walk in closet, plus a quarter of a shed full of Christmas decorations. She can't put them up by herself any more and my oldest insists on putting everything up. We were able to keep it somewhat contained this year (last year it took until July to get everything put away), and got it all done in two days (unfortunately, it meant I needed to stand over him with a whip and get more hands on). Plus we all got colds right after, too, and mine turned into a mild asthma attack. Okay, long-winded, unnecessary explanation over. I wrote the stories for RIgirl and Marie. Both were done at the last minute which is why they were considerably shorter than the rest. I decided it would be better to compromise on quantity than quality and tried to keep the integrity of the stories. With RIgirl's, I couldn't decide whether to focus the story on Red Impulse or Cronus, so instead of putting it in a specific universe, I kept it focused on the character figuring they'd both have similar thoughts through that situation and left it ambiguous for the readers to decide who it fit better. It was an experiment and I'm glad she is happy with it. For Marie, who wanted an Eagle/Swan with Christmassy themes, I went to the episode again mainly because it was familiar and the closest I could come to Gatch Christmas. I tried to push the Eagle/Swan relationship a bit more, but the characters just wouldn't let me (I'm sure it showed that I'm not an experienced Eagle/Swan writer, I probably could have turned it very smutty if it were Condor/Swan). If I were more familiar with Gatch F, I would have looked to that for inspiration, but I didn't have the time for research -- sorry about that. I will try to post the master list sometime tomorrow or Monday. If I don't get it up by Monday, it will be up on Wednesday. We have a funeral Tuesday (hubby's grandmother passed away a few days after Christmas -- no condolences please, no one is really upset. The woman was a hypochondriac who has spent most of the last twenty to thirty years, if not more, in and out of convalescence hospitals for no particular reason. In a way this is a huge relief and burden off of the family, particularly my hubby's aunt. okay, again TMI)

You've been having a time of it, Amethyst -I hope you get a chance to relax and rest up soon! Thanks again for all the organizing and extra writing you've done on short notice for the Gift Exchange

Amethyst ... obeying your wish, I'll only stick to also wish you a well deserved rest after all this turnoil, thanking you once again for all you've done for us, notwithstanding the hardship of life! As to my gift ... you know that I cannot be happier than I am with it! Apart from appreciating a lot your great generosity, for not wanting to leave me empty handed, at all costs, I'm also so grateful for all the aftermath thoughts which your piece has ignited into my mind! The selection of that particular Gatch episode was a brilliant choice, and I love what Ken's gesture towards Jun at the end implies! And, I was the one not asking for so much smut involved, wishing to receive something more on the romantic side ... which, btw, you've achieved very well in doing! As to the Gatch F implications ... well, I just wished to try my luck! You must know me well, by now ... me and my Gatch F obsession!

Amethyst sorry to hear you have been having such a rough and busy time. Now that you have confirmed which two stories you wrote it confirms my ideas. When I was left with so few choices, I had wondered if LB had written that story for Springie about Ken playing at the talent show. It was from Joe's POV after all. Here is the list I created: Participants / Request / Title / Writer TJ /Mark and Princess / Christmas Wishes /Maddy - confirmed UW / RI / What I Wish for Xmas and War Buds / Marie and Springie - confirmed Lyon / Ken and Joe/ Vacation Time /UW - confirmed Maddy /BOTP team / In the Spirit of the Season / Garnet - confirmed Garnet /Keyop / Family Ties /TJ - confirmed Marie /Ken and Jun / Delivering /Amethyst - confirmed Springie /Ken and Jun /Bring your Artistry / LB RIgirl /RI / The Mistake / Amethyst - confirmed LB / Joe / Simone Story / RIgirl

Well, since you've gone so far, yes, CD, I was the one who wrote the story for LB. I didn't realize the stories were being titled. If I had, I think the most fitting title for this story would be "Trouble."

Oooo, I like that for the title RIgirl. If I had been participating, I probably would have forgotten to give my story a title as well. The title is usually the last thing that comes to me and it usually come out during a discussion with my Beta.

Thanks for the kind thoughts, everyone. If I get anything official up today, it will be much later; although, going from memory only, CD's guesses are pretty well spot on. UW asked for something focusing on RI or Anderson, one of the lesser used characters in fanfiction. I've been resting, staying in bed most of the day yesterday and likely today, too. Fortunately my desk is right next to it, so switching from desk to bed is not too bad. I'm still in the high yellow zone for a peak flow meter (sad that I can tell that without having to use one). If I could get rid of the chest cold it would go back to green easily. So I've spent my time watching videos, sadly Gatch lost to Emergency! It is easier to click my mouse than to get up and change DVD's (Netflix really needs to get Gatch and BotP on streaming).

Sending you my best "Get well soon!" wishes, Amethyst!

Well, I am confirmed as the author of "Bring Your Artistry" by default now...

Originally posted by RIgirl Well, since you've gone so far, yes, CD, I was the one who wrote the story for LB. I didn't realize the stories were being titled. If I had, I think the most fitting title for this story would be "Trouble."

Thank you! Simone definitely seems like trouble -though not necessarily of the "Galactor" variety- but I can well believe that Joe would be drawn to her, perhaps because she seems like trouble (that is, after all, his usual trend...) but also intriguing. If you ever get inspired to write more... Hope you feel better soon, Amethyst! I remember "Emergency" -gosh, I haven't seen that show in years...

Originally posted by lborgia88If you ever get inspired to write more...

I have to agree, I would love to see more of your writing RIgirl. I don't get to read much of your work. I would love to see more new stories about Kentaro.

Okay, illness and funeral are done. I'm tired, but not nearly as tired as my mother-in-law at the moment (I hope she has a peaceful drive home today). Now, it's time to take care of all the work that has not been done because of everything. So, I'll start here. Each of these will also be posted with the individual gifts as well. TJ Prompt: A romantic Eagle/Swan story from any team; smut preferred, but at author's discretion Gift: Christmas Wishes by Maddy Rigirl Prompt: None requested Gift: The Mistake by Amethyst Springie Prompt: I'd like a "Jun's new man who will make Ken and Joe jealous" type of fic Gift: Bring Your Artistry by LB Maddy Prompt: BotP Fanfic/Fanart: 1. The team receives a gift from a most unexpected source 2. Zoltar uncovers information that he could use to reveal the true identities of the team, including their current residences. What does he choose to do and why. 3. Anderson decides to try to give back some of their childhood to the team. Gift: In the Spirit of the Season Gatchmarie Prompt: Gatchaman/Gatch F Eagle/Swan fanfic or fanart: Angst is welcome, as is humour, love (without any heavy smut!), or even Christmassy themes! Gift: Delivering by Amethyst UW Prompt: Fanfic, essay, or fanart (not disgusting), on either Gatch or BotP. Essay can be on any theme. Fanfic/Fanart: Would prefer one about/concerning lesser-used characters, such as Nambu/Anderson, RI/Cronus, or one of the team who doesn't get a lot of 'screen time', or much time outside the G1/G2 orbit. Gift: What I Wish for Christmas by Gatchmarie Garnet Prompt: It's 15 years after the start of the series. What has happened? Is the war over or still going on? Arer all the team members still alive? What are they like as adults? Did Mark and Princess get married? Did Jason finally find a girl that didn't turn out to be a Galaxy Girl or get killed? Is Tiny still a fast-food junky? What's Keyop like at age 23-25? When or how does the war end? Who dies and who survives? Is it happily-ever-after, or is it a hard road to normalsy for all, or at least the surviving members, of the team? Note: I love angst and hurt/comfort. I am also a HUGE Keyop fan. I love him at any age Gift: Family Ties by TJ LB Prompt: A pic of the Condor in his car (civvy mode or transformed) -any medium. or I'm a sucker for episodes -and therefore fics- in which the Condor meets a girl who seems like trouble (though it could turn out to be otherwise). Any medium, though Gatch or BOTP preferred. or a fic that's set before the war starts, while the Team's still in training/still being brought together, featuring a first or early encounter between any two Team members. Any medium, though Gatch or BOTP preferred. Gift: Trouble by RIgirl My Goof: In my notes I gave Springie Gatchmarie's prompt. When I sent the prompt, I sent UW's. The result: War Buds by Springie Lyon Prompt: Something with Ken x Joe. If smut, then maybe a comedy of errors, nothing too serious y'know? If whoever is not a smut person, then something that showcases the two boys trying to relax when not 'on duty'. Gatch is my favorite, but BoTP would be fine too. Gift: Vacation Time by UW

Okay, now that I have the master list up, authors can now upload the stories or artwork at other archives. Please remember that is common courtesy to reference the gift exchange and recipient in either your summary or author's notes when posting outside of the forums. I'd like to extend my apologies, once again to Marie and Springie for my goof. Springie, if you have War Buds on another site, send me a link and I'll replace the one I have and take it down off of my photobucket account. (Don't want people thinking that I draw anywhere near as good as you, they'd be sorely disappointed in my stick figures ) I'd also like to thank RIgirl who got excited and wrote to all three of LB's prompts and gave me permission to use them if short on gifts. Unfortunately, they could not be used for the two that were needed; however, her generosity is appreciated all the same. Hopefully once she has them posted, she will share the links with us I'm glad that everyone has enjoyed this and look forward to doing this again next year. I'd like to hear comments and suggestions on how to improve this (besides doing more thorough double checks when sending out prompts ) or to increase participation. Thank you those who participated. It is because of you that this was such an enjoyable experience. Thank you to those of you, who couldn't participate, but who supported those who did by leaving so many positive comments.

Amethyst, don't worry about taking the pic off of your Photobucket...I don't mind at all that you have it there. I'd be happy to send you another link to it if you'd like to take it off of your Photobucket, though. Again, no need to apologize about the "goof"...it was fun for me to try to draw Nambu and RI for the first time! "Bring Your Artistry" is one of my new favs of all time! Thanks again to the lovely and talented LB for writing it! And for Marie, I'm always happy to do another Eagle/Swan pic! She'll be seeing plenty of them from me in the future! You did a fabulous job on this and I hope to see this exchange again next year! (And maybe next year I'll actually be a ble to fool some of you by writing a fic...my pics are a dead giveaway!) It was so much fun!

Thank you, yet again, Amethyst, for coming up with this fun and idea and making it happen! It's interesting reading all the prompts, and seeing now just where the fics and pic all initially stemmed from...

Originally posted by amethyst I'd also like to thank RIgirl who got excited and wrote to all three of LB's prompts and gave me permission to use them if short on gifts. Unfortunately, they could not be used for the two that were needed; however, her generosity is appreciated all the same. Hopefully once she has them posted, she will share the links with us

RI Girl wrote all my prompts? I was just trying to give more possibilities but I second that It'll be like getting bonus gifts! Springie, glad you liked it.

Amethyst ... I join the others in thanking you once again for all you've done for us during a season which happened to be quite turbulent for you, when it must have been otherwise! I hope you're now feeling much better! I also wish to thank you, once again, for your gift! I reiterate that there's no need to excuse yourself! Every other piece of work I've seen, or read, was already an indirect gift in itself, as I had a wonderful time enjoying each and every one of them! But, your "Delivering" was an even more special gift since you've been so kind to think of me, and go out of your way! It was also very much appreciated by a Ken/Jun shipper like me, fulfilling very well my requirements! Springie ... as I've already said, you've already spoiled me with your vast number of past, wonderful Eagle/Swan pics! But, another one won't hurt, won't it! ... and, perhaps another ... and, yet another ...!!! I really believe you when you say you'll come up with more in the future!! RIgirl ... it was so thoughtful of you to write more than one fic, and offer them as extras! I hereby third Amethyst's poking as I'm so looking forward to read what you've come up with!! I also wish to congratulate everyone, who has taken part in this Gift Exchange, as every picture and fic was brilliant, just like all of you are! Thanks again for a lovely ride, and I'm already looking forward for next year!