I returned home to discover a box on the stairs, sitting by the sidewalk salt, sent from my Secret Santa in Ottawa. Inside there was some thoughtful gifts, introducing me to "Dick Proenneke", an outdoor enthusiast who was the subject of Alone in the Wilderness, a documentary on PBS that I haven't yet watched, but now thanks to my "sloth overlord" Santa, I shall. Apparently Proenneke referred to all red squirrels as "Freddy" - a fact that I've now learned reading his journal, "More Readings From One Man's Wilderness" (the book). The journal entries actually make for some interesting reading; I've read collections of letters before, but never a published journal. While reading, I'm listening to a bit of Joe Pug, as compelled by my dear Santa. To go with this, I've been blessed with two beers that I've never yet tried: a Yuengling and a sample of his his own homebrewed beer (will update later when I have a sip!).

And let's not forget the Pop Rocks! I haven't had those for quite a few years!

Many thanks, Santa! It'll be thoroughly enjoyed :D