Swap Rocks!

INTERNATIONAL

All of my traveling friends know by now not to bring me tacky souvenirs from tourist shops.

I prefer rocks.

Or pebbles.

Or stones.

I believe that a carefully chosen rock can hold the spirit of a place. Besides, I just like 'em.

For this swap, you will:

1. Go outside -- go for a walk, wander around your yard, visit any place that you really love.

2. Pick up a rock that really speaks to you.

3. Write a letter (at least one page) to your partner describing the place where you found the rock, why you chose that particular stone of all the stones there, and why the place is special to you.

4. Send the rock and the letter to your partner.

Feel free to send extras: photographs, maps, brochures, geological information, whatever. (But don't feel you have to: A rock and a letter are all that's required.)

DO NOT go to a rock shop and buy a polished rock or crystal to send. And please don't pick up rocks anywhere it's against the rules (some National Parks, for instance).

There is no monetary value to this swap -- just an opportunity to spend some time with yourself in Nature, closely observing what is around you and listening to how it makes you feel.

When you send your rock and letter to your partner, you will be sharing a part of yourself and a part of one of your favorite places.

Newbies welcome with completed profiles. Only those with ratings of 4.5 or higher and no no-sends, please. Contact me if you have any questions.

I think it's basic good manners to post in the comments when you've sent your package and to let your partner know when you've received theirs. And of course, please remember to rate, but also allow extra time for international senders and try to make contact before posting a "1" rating.

Note: It's up to you whether you choose a pebble or a boulder. But you might want to take postage into consideration. ;)