Chain reaction into awesomeness

It all began with NaBloPoMo. Which made Laurel start up the Encyclopediasass. Which inspired her to post adorable, Midwestern, C-is-for-Childhood photos on Tuesday. Which prompted the incredibly accurate hypothesis that I would like a shirt that says, “Little people are more huggable.” Which made me comment: “HA. You totally have my number and I definitely want a shirt like that! I’d even settle for a big shiny button if it says that I am more huggable.” Which started the following rapid-fire e-mail exchange:

Laurel: I think we should have a blogger secret santa exchange–then your secret santa can make you this t-shirt and send it!!

RA: YES! The thought occurred to me that that would be outrageously fun, but I am never one to suggest an idea that other people spend money for my sheer enjoyment. But now, you have confirmed it! Yes! Sorry. Am calming down.

Laurel: YES!!!! I feel like it would be a great get-to-know you thing, because even if people get someone they would have enough time to read their blog and, well, “get to know them.” I FEEL A SPREADSHEET COMING ON.

RA: Um, heck YES for the spreadsheet!!!! I am so freaking excited. Does this coincide with any of your encyclopedia entries? Maybe G for gift (this Friday)? Or is that too soon? Can I just say that I LOVE the flurry of planning? Yes, I do.

Laurel: OMG!!! I have no entry planned for G! This is sheer genius!!!

The point of this run-down of background information and flurry of organizational screeching is:

Sign up to be a

!

No, it’s not just an excuse to create a spreadsheet, although Laurel and I do love our spreadsheets. No, it’s not just a conspiracy to get me a funny shirt, but that would be a nice side benefit. It’s just a nice holiday-time thing to do. Plus, you’ll get presents! It’s fun! It’s cheap! You’ll get to know another blogger! You’ll have automatic blog fodder! You’ll get presents!

Isn’t this irresistible logic?

I see questions in the crowd…

What do I have to do?

1. Sign up by next Friday, November 16.
2. Receive notice of your lucky recipient with relevant information on Monday, November 26.
3. During the week of December 3 send along a small, low-priced/free gift.
4. Repeat Step 3 during the week of December 10.
5. Arrange for a gift (around $10) to arrive at the doorstep between December 17-25 and reveal your identity!

How do I sign up?
Send a message to Secret Blogger Santa HQ with the following information, which will be forwarded to your giver:

• Name/Alias
• Blog URL
• E-mail address
• Postal address (Street, City, State, Zip Code)
• Personal tidbits that might be helpful to the giver (optional)

What if I don’t know the person I’m assigned?
You could rely on the provided personal tidbits. You could send secret accomplices to find out what that person would like to receive. Best of all, you could scout out that person’s blog!

What the heck is a “small, low-priced/free gift”?
In the grand tradition of Secret Santa exchanges, we’re attempting to recreate the series of gifts in an online way. Share something fun or interesting, say something nice or encouraging, and/or suggest something you love. Here are a few ideas to get started:

• Fun blog accessories: badges, banners
• Links: new blogs to read, articles, retailers, YouTube videos
• Recommendations: books, movies, clothing, recipes
• Kudos: “things I love about you/your blog,” “favorite photos on your Flickr stream,” “why I loved this post”
• E-cards

How do I send something electronic without giving away my identity?
It would be great if people didn’t know who was responsible for their awesome gifts, so if you are sending something that requires an e-mail address (say, an iTunes certificate or an e-card), go ahead and enter the Secret Blogger Santa address. If you want to send along something via e-mail (like recipes or a cool blog button), send your message to the same address and we will forward it to your recipient.

What can I possibly get for $10?
If you’re crafty, get to it! A certificate to an online retailer or a subscription to a magazine would be great, too. Be creative and know that the cost guidelines are loose. It’s really up to you.

Ooh! I want to do gag/prank-like gifts!
Uh. We discourage this type of gifting so that everyone has a good time. Okay?

I don’t celebrate Christmas. Can I join anyway?
Yes, please! This is a Secret Blogger (Non-Denominational, All-Inclusive) Santa exchange! Unfortunately, all of that was too long for the e-mail address.

Did you and Laurel really plan this thing in two days?
Yes. More like an afternoon of crazy e-mails.

Is there really a spreadsheet?
You’d better believe it.

We would love to have as many participants as possible, so we hope you’ll grab a button and sign up!