Thrift-Gift Exchange:

As part of the gathering on the 22nd, Sandy and I thought a little gift exchange would be fun. We plan to purchase second-hand gifts to trade at the party. I've taken the liberty of coming up with a few parameters:

Gifts must be under $15. They must fit in a standard grocery store paper bag, with room to tape the top shut. If you do not have a bag, one will be provided. They must be purchased at a thrift store, antique mall, estate sale, or *possibly* deep discount bulk store, tho second hand is preferred. They should be something you think Karl would have bought (if I had let him...) Purchases can be made at any time before the party.

These rules are, of course, flexible. If you buy, say, a Volkswagen, you could put a picture of it in the paper bag, along with the keys and a map to find it. Seriously, I don't think you find those too often on the junk circuit, but well, you never know. Think Karl. Break the rules if it makes for a good story.

Gifts should be deposited on The Bar by 7:45 pm. There will be a 15 minute shake, rattle, and examine period before numbers are drawn at 8:00. When your number is drawn you will choose a bag (not your own!) and give it to another guest. Yes, the blind giving to the blind!

Bribes and negotiations are acceptable. Trades are encouraged. Rules are subject to change at the whim or whimsy of the hostess.

All gifts must leave Circle K with a guest. Seriously. Put it in your own basement - mine's full!

Please RSVP in a comment if you want to play. Suggestions for amendments to the rules will be considered, so if you have a thought to make it more interesting, speak (er, type!) up.

Cheers.

ps - the photo is from August, 2008 - our last estate sale adventure together.