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Folks, I can't be clear enough on the anonymous element of this swap. Some folks are more into the anonymous part than others, but since you probably don't know your pal inside out, we have to err on the side of caution and assume she likes surprises and wants you to remain anonymous until the end.

Things happen; I've accidentally emailed from an account that displays my name, and felt awful. However, please be mindful and careful, okay?

If you're not sure how your email server sends out your "address", send yourself an email and see if just the email addy shows, or if perchance your name is there too. If your name or other identifier is obvious, change your settings. There are so many email providers out there that I cannot begin to tell you how to change that, and I suspect in some cases, it cannot be changed. Check under preferences, and keep digging. Not very helpful, I know, and I'm sorry.

Also, Mary's group has been having a great time with a rather group-sized email, so I've created a Google group for us. You should be receiving an invite at the email address used for this swap soon. Keep in mind that this is for ALL swappers, which includes your pal. We'll be using our names, so don't flinch if you and your pal are gabbing, and don't say anything that would reveal that she's your pal. I think this can be a fun way to glean information, hiding in plain sight as they say. Of course, you're free to decline your invite. I've not used Google Groups before, but I'm assuming they'll have a digest option or something of the sort so that if you don't care to receive a lot of extra emails, you won't.

Sorry to be so fussy about all of this, but I guess that's my job!