A short lister chimes in **UPDATED**

It finally happened.

Over two years ago, I posted the short list (the Goat, incidentally, originally came up with that name). Since then, I have made some additions to the list.

One of the individuals assigned to my list has contacted me:

I was told about your reference to me on many occasions over the last few years. I decided to finally check it out as a result of my college age daughter's prodding me to do so. I am very flattered to have been mentioned by you in this way! You are an incredibly entertaining, real person. I enjoy watching, reading, etc. your commentaries. And again, I am truly flattered.

XOXOXO

I shall leave his/her identity a secret. But believe me he/she is a TOTAL HOTTIE.

You might wonder if this development has rattled the Goat's complacency. You be the judge:

"So one of the short listers chimed in, huh?" he said, sipping at his coffee.

"That's right," I said with no small amount of challenge in my voice. "After that email, they'll probably be showing up with a bottle of SuperLube ANY MINUTE."

"Uh-huh," he said, turning the page of the newspaper with maddening indifference.

"You Goat!"


* * * UPDATE * * *

After additional email communication with the above outlined short-list mystery identity, I now have permission to share said identity to all of you. But I cannot help myself. I will not unmask the Big Reveal until one of you lovelies correctly guesses who he/she is.

Here is my original email correspondence:

Dear Mystery Identity,

Since I am an terrible she-devil, I posted an entry regarding your email, but I left your identity anonymous. My readers, perhaps predictably, are smoldering with curiosity over your identity.

So then, it seems you have all the power. To step into the light or remain in the shadows? Both options have their advantages. On one hand, my readers are impressed that a short-lister would contact me and you are surely entitled to receive their compliments. On the other hand, there is something delicious in mystery.

I will steadfastly honor your decision. If you opt to own-up, no worries, I will share your name only. Your email addy is safe with me.

Yours in letters and dubious Internet activity,

Erin O'Brien

And Mystery Identity's response:

Why Hello Erin,

Please, you make the call. After all, it is your blog. I do give you full permission to expose me should you choose to do so in your blog, and again, I AM FLATTERED! ; )

So there's the evidence, bloggers. Thus far, Carville and Rowe have been put forth. Mystery Identity is neither of these.

Good luck and good guessing!