The Let's Give T.H.A.N.K.S. Swap

I've really been thinking long and hard about hosting another swap here. Overall, my last swap went well, but I still had people who didn't follow through on their obligation, which just sickens me. However, I don't want to dwell on the negative, especially considering the theme of my new swap. Things are going to be run a little differently this time though. Ok, now that I've got that off my chest, let's move on to the FUN stuff!

The theme of my new swap is in accordance with the upcoming American Thanksgiving season. I've titled it "Let's Give T.H.A.N.K.S" for a couple of reasons. First, I love giving gifts. Second, I love to try and tailor gift giving with my interests and the interests of the receiver. With this swap, my idea is to make or purchase a gift, for your partner, for each letter in the word "thanks". Here's an example.

Let's say I am paired up with Mary, who is a mom of 2, and she is really into reading, sewing, & cooking. And if you read my blog with any regularity, you already know me somewhat well. Here's what I might do. I would give her a box of English Breakfast Tea, because I love it and she could probably use a cup of tea for relaxing. A box of Hershey Cocoa because this is the season of yummy hot chocolate and it's great for baking! A cute Apron that I purchased at our local farmer's market. A set of hand stamped Note cards that I made because I'm crafty and what mom can't use note cards? A silver Keychain with a frame for a picture of her kids. Finally, a copy of a Sophie Kinsella book because she's a fabulous author!

Now, for anyone who is still with me and interested, here are the rules for this time around.

1. Only 20 participants will be accepted this time around. To sign up, you must send an email to anticswithangie@gmail.com with the following information: Your name, mailing address, email address, & blog address. Upon approval, you will be emailed a list of questions to answer which will help your partner shop for you.

2. If you did not participate in my last swap or you're someone that I don't personally know, you must be a U.S. blogger who has posted regularly for the last 6 months.

3. Participants will be accepted through October 25th or when the maximum number is reached, whichever occurs first.

4. Partner assignments will be sent out by October 27th.

5. The minimum value of the package contents is $25 (not including shipping cost), but you are welcome to spend more. Please keep in mind that your partner might not be able to reciprocate spending more than the allotted amount.

6. Packages MUST be mailed out on November 14th, 16th or 17th. If you can't stick to this mailing schedule, please don't try to participate. I'm trying to coordinate everyone receiving their packages around the same time, before Thanksgiving.

7. You are not required to blog about the swap or when you receive your package, but it would be really nice if you did! Senders love to see that their partners received their gifts and it would be a great chance to say THANKS to your partner! I will have a link up entry available for anyone who wants to blog about it and link up their entry to share with the group of swappers.

Most importantly, HAVE FUN! I hope my rules don't sound too harsh. I think this swap could be a lot of fun and really get us into the spirit of giving and being thankful for all that we have in our lives!