International shipping is a fun thing, if you are patient. After waiting exactly a month, going to the post office and, after a huge line of people, seeing that desirable cardboard box felt so wonderful. I was surprised when I saw how big it was, and then I was surprised again when I've weighed it. And then I ran back home, holding the box like a baby, while listening to Indiana Jones' Theme. Yes, there were a few strange looks.

When I opened it, the first thing I saw was an envelope with my nickname on it. Inside was a cute holiday card with a heartwarming message and a thrilling postscriptum. And then…

There aren't enough words to describe the sheer joy I felt when I saw the next thing. Not only it's a framed print, it's a framed print featuring Eleven from Stranger Things! This show, without any doubts, was the brightest and biggest highlight of 2016 for me, and after a number of rewatches it became one of my favorite shows of all time, I can talk about it for hours. This print is just the right thing, and it is FANTASTIC! I adore everything about it, the style, the pose, the colors, and, because it was already framed, all I had to do is hang in on my wall, which I did, and I will never remove it from there (maybe only temporarily while moving, but it's not in the plans).

I am a huge reader and I knew there was going to be a book, since my Santa had asked me if I had ever heard of an author named Patrick Rothfuss. I didn't, and after a quick research I found out that his books were published in our country just once (and it was seven years ago), so there was no chance to become familiar with his works, since second-hand prices here are insane and shipping rates from overseas for original editions aren't that easily manageable too. I was a little worried that after one book I'd need to buy the others. And, of course, I didn't expect to get both of them and a companion novella too. OH MY GOD!!! I look forward to reading them, I can't even remember when was the last time I started a book not knowing anything about the plot and the characters. I can only imagine what is waiting for me on the pages.

Foreign candy is the best kind of a forbidden fruit, since I never heard of anything in this selection, and I could be wrong, but I can't remember even one candy here in Russia that is at least vaguely similar to any of these. It's hard to be wise about it and not to eat everything within a day, as I usually do, so it's also an interesing challenge, to enjoy these treats as long as possible.

And, just as the card promised, the last item is a weird (in a good way) Nicolas Cage activity book. During the holidays my mom and I did a little Nicolas Cage movie marathon, and she already snatched the book. She quite likes him, what more can I say?

Thank you, Santa. This is, indeed, the best gift I have ever received. No words can truly express my feelings, and these things will last for a long time. I will always remember your kindness when I look on my wall where the print is, the books will provide me with a new world to dive in when I need an escape, and treats will make even the bad days sweeter. And, of course, the great memories will always be with me when I'm away from home. Thank you very much.