Christmas gift swap

Just for the record, it seems I read so quickly through the rules info on the J-popcon fashion show that I missed out on the fact that it actually WAS free to participate DX Either that, or I simply forgot it, since I only read it once. Argh! I even checked the bloody J-popcon website about free areas, but alas. But of course I didn't re-read the rules in the original post. Classy me!
So, basically I could've saved 350 dkr. but didn't *sadface*.

Aaaaanywho, back to the real reason for posting. J-fashion.dk is hosting a Christmas swap. Something I lurve the idea of. I think it's a really great concept and lovely to get something lolita themed.
However, I'm a bit unsure of whether or not to actually join in.
See I was in a valentines swap two years ago. I made my partner a brooch and matching bow comb in white grossgrain ribbon with a golden crown pendant and pearls if I remember correctly. What I got in return was a heart shaped candle, a pretty sad heart shaped pendant and a pink/purpleish shawl. Everything, something I saw in the local Tiger (a 10 kr. store in denmark). It seemed very random, not something anyone had put any thought in choosing. I only kept the candle. H&M keeps better quality jewelry than that pendant.
It's not that I mind that not a lot of money was spent. This was not supposed to be a crazy expensive swap. But I put effort and care in making my part of the swap, and even though I know that not everyone has the creative streak, I didn't feel that my partner had put any effort in it. It felt very 'at the last minute' like.
If you're not creative, there are other possibilities; buying some handmade chocolates (in DK there's some great shops, like Frellsens, who has good prices), and then wrap it nicely, put it in a pretty box etc.
I never expressed my disappointment to my partner, since I felt that was in poor taste and I feared, that if she was a lot younger than me, she'd get upset by my telling her my feeling a bit cheated.
I wonder if she'll be reading this. Somehow I hope not, but if she do, I hope she doesn't think I still harbour ill will towards her.

So yes, I realize that I sound a bit snobbish, but I fear that I'll get a less than eager partner again, or even worse, one of those who never sends their gift (everyone must have heard of the swap horror stories).
I want to put a lot of effort into whatever I make. I guess it's a matter of pride as well as the wish to give away something the receiver will cherish. But I'd like to receive something I will cherish as well and use frequently, you see. Like a pretty necklace, a cute ring, lots of ribbons and so on, and so forth.

Betty v2.0?

I found a mannequin in the basement of the building where I work. I actually found three, all of them thrown out because of various defects (some more severe than others). And I decided to adopt one of them! I carried her home over two days. The first day taking home a torso, three arms and four hands (so that she can pose in more way than one) and then the second day, taking home her lower body (hips and legs). Waiting for the bus with a pair of legs standing freely next to me was hilarious (especially to the two policemen who stopped their car next to me, to ask about it XD ). She was very heavy, but she's SO pretty!!
I'll take pictures of her this weekend. She's wearing my outfit from the fashion show, antlers and all. But no shoes! She's standing on flat foot, so she can't wear heels for now. But I'm keeping my eye out for a second pair of legs XD

My internet is acting up, so you'll have to wait till next time, to get a new youtube video.