Some time during the mad dash to get ready for Christmas Eve with relatives, I remembered to check the mail. To my surprise, there was a large package stuffed in there along with all the letters! Just in time for Christmas! I wanted so badly to open it then, but I didn't have time until we returned the following evening, so I took pictures of the package (more on that in a bit) and set it aside where it would be safe.

When I was finally able to sit down and open it up I was so excited to find that my Santa had gone above and beyond with their thoughtful gifts. Not only did I get two books that look like they'll be great to read, but a pair of absolutely adorable fuzzy slipper socks and a bag of toys for my fluffy kitty cat!

I've been wearing the socks around the house, enjoying the squishy sounds the traction dots on the bottom make when I'm on tile. I don't know if that's intentional in the design but it cracks me up because they're penguins and it sounds perfect. My feet are ALWAYS cold, so I'm happy to finally have a pair of slipper socks. They're certainly warm now!

My cat (pictured with "his" hoard) was very interested in the contents of the package. He usually spends more time grooming his toys than he does playing with them. But when I tossed one of the bell balls on the ground he took a flying leap off the couch and went after it. Now I hear it jingling around the house at all hours. That's pretty high praise from a 13 year old cat! He's got the rest of them gathered in the living room where he can sleep on the pile like a fluffy dragon.

I cannot express how much I love my gifts, and how appreciative I am. In my profile I mentioned that I like scifi and I'm into nerdy things in general. So I'm happy to have something new to read that fits those interests!

On a slightly unfortunate note, the package was not so lucky during its journey. Ultimately one of the books was folded like an accordion, so we've put it under something heavy to flatten it out, which seems to be helping. But I still intend to read it crinkles or no! It's just got a little more character now. Thankfully the rest of the contents seem to have fared much better. Based on the letter inside (which was so sweet and came with an adorable picture) I believe everything sent by my Santa made it here, so we got a minor Christmas miracle!

This experience has been incredible, thank you so much, TeaPopsicle! I'll definitely be updating my bucket list to include a warm Christmas in the southern hemisphere. I hope you're enjoying your time abroad, and someone at home is sending you pictures of your cat so you can stay connected. I wish you holidays full of fun and exciting experiences! <3