Swap Like a Pirate Day (Deadlines extended!)

Just in time for International Talk Like a Pirate Day (Sept. 19th). Okay, I've extended the deadlines, though it means international packages may not get to their destinations by September 19th.

Special reminder to those in the U.S.: AFAIK, Krispy Kreme Donuts will be running their free donut/dozen donuts again this year. If your partner is in the U.S. and you want to make your theme "Claim Your Free Dozen Donuts," go right ahead -- just check and make sure your friend has a Krispy Kreme nearby. Last year KK required specific items to be considered "dressed like a pirate" -- please browse their website for their specifications for this year once the promotion begins.

You have many, many options for this swap -- just remember it's for "classical" pirates like Captain Hook, Long John Silver, and Jack Sparrow, not contemporary ones.

You could opt to send any of these, as long as they fit the theme:

Pocket letter with 9 decorated pockets and at least 8 goodies. Any edibles/drinkables need to be factory-sealed.

Four (4) different, mailable note cards with envies

Two (2) ATCs

|Two (2) different stationery sets (2 sheets, 1 envie each)

Two (2) small costume pieces that you've personally made and/or embellished (bandana, eye patch, dangle, money pouch/wallet, bracelet, pair of earrings, etc). New, not used, please.

Craft grab bag with at least three items -- one rubber stamp, six diecuts, 3 yards of themed washi tape (whether one design, two, or several).

Minimum 4 x 6" ziptop bag filled with pirate treasure -- sparkly gems, gold and silver coins, strands of pearls, jewelry...maybe even a treasure map!

One very, very nice miniature tricorn hat (fascinator). Milliners, here's your chance to shine!

Important! No matter which one you send, you'll also send a letter to your partner as if you're a seasoned pirate and s/he is your apprentice, explaining what the items are and how to use them. Write in pirate lingo as much as you can, and tall tales are encouraged. That's not just a blinged-out eye patch, that's the one Blackbeard gave you after you lost your eye to a sea serpent! That ATC of a mermaid? She's your dear old mum!

Consider giving a heart if the letter is entertaining.

Important note: If your partner is international, please provide a translation of your letter in standard English (which is difficult enough without asking your friends to decipher and interpret anachronistic lingo, too!).

Happy swapping, ye scurvy dogs!