I really didn’t know what to expect for my first exchange ever but my Secret Santa really went above and beyond! Skip to the third paragraph for comments on the books themselves.

First, I was so shocked that my books were sent so fast and via priority shipping! I would’ve been fine waiting longer but this works out perfectly since Spring break was coming soon and I was worried I wouldn’t be able to access my workplace. Thank you so much for shipping so fast!

Next, there’s the packaging itself. I was really impressed by how my books were packaged tightly with the extra cardboard. I’ve had books sent without that extra care and it really makes a huge difference in how well books come in the mail. I tried to recreate how I remembered they were packaged and post pictures of that here since I think the packaging is a great example of best practices to consider when shipping books. Awesome job!

Finally, the good stuff. I can’t believe that I received not one but FOUR books—three of which are part of a series—a neat notebook, a beautiful card, and a cool Great Lakes sticker!! I really wanted to get back to reading for myself instead of reading just for research and this collection of books is going to be really helpful in doing that. I also thought it was a really neat touch that you got me books that were written by an author from your area. The notebook is also going to be really helpful for me since it contains great quotes that will help keep me grounded when I’m having self-doubt. I posted a picture of one of the quotes I liked. The card and sticker were the final touch of this wonderful gift. The flower painting is gorgeous and goes with one of my interests in nature while the sticker goes with my interest in travel. Hopefully I’ll be able to visit the Great Lakes one day.

Secret Santa, I can’t thank you enough for your gift, but THANK YOU SO MUCH!!! After having a really cruddy week, it was great to start the weekend with these AMAZING gifts.

TLDR: Secret Santa did amazing with both shipping and books which captured my interests and were so thoughtful. Thank you again!