I shipped something recently that was on the smaller side in a smaller padded envelope. I dropped in a blue box at the actual post office on the way to work. First scan didn't happen until many days later when it arrived half way across the country. So it missed acceptance scan, received at sorting center scan, departed sorting center scan, in transit updates, and accepted at buyers's location sorting center scan. FINALLY got a departed buyer's sorting center scan several days after mailing, received by local PO scan, and then a delivered scan the next day.
I was worried the entire time, due to the small size, it had disappeared with all of the holiday shipping. But it hadn't. It just joined a lot of holiday shipping. It was delivered before the stated last date, and I haven't heard anything from the buyer since it was delivered. All is well.
Given the time of year,, I understand you want confirmation that it's on its way to you, but don't assume it's not, because with all the extra work for the holiday season, I think scans aren't always happening or updating as quickly as you are accustomed to seeing.
BUT, Since the seller admitted 3 times they have not shipped yet, I'd be on the side of leaving feedback reflecting my experience NOW, as it can be updated later by seller's request. Perhaps appropriate feedback received would light a fire under the seller to get the item to you,, and the feedback revised if needed. Other than that, if you really feel the seller is jerking you around, I'd give up the item is actually going to arrive for Xmas, and plan on gifting something else. IF you believe you will receive the item but it will be after Xmas, may I suggest wrapping a pic of the item in a gift package with a statement, it's on its way!
