My Santa sent over some absolutely excellent gifts, and I couldn't be more thrilled! I've never done one of these exchanges before, so I wasn't sure what to expect; what I got was incredibly generous and thoughtful.

I had mentioned in my preferences that I loved makeup and followed a bunch of makeup subreddits. My santa admitted upfront that he didn't know much about it, but sent a Sephora gift card, which is DEFINITELY much appreciated and going to be put to good use.

I had also mentioned my love of beer, so I now have a "BEER, THAT'S WHY" bumper sticker proudly hanging on my fridge.

Inside a tin box was a Cuddle Buddies toy for my dog, who I know is going to love it. And probably try to rip its arms out because of how much she loves it.

There were several delicious food items inside: some fruit preserves (I have never had marionberry before and am eager to try it!), a box of Russell Stovers, and organic hard candies, which I am doing my best not to devour immediately. I had mentioned that I liked drawing in my preferences, and my Santa included some colored pencils and a coloring book, which is completely delighting my inner child.

Where my Santa really went above and beyond (and was awesomely prescient): I had mentioned a love of reading but had somehow forgotten to mention Chuck Palahniuk as one of my favorite authors on my preferences. My Santa got me a lovely copy of Palahniuk's "Lullaby", which was already cool enough. But I didn't realize until I opened it that it was also SIGNED!! I have no idea how you finagled that one, Santa, but this is easily now one of my most prized books!

Lastly, there was a small bag advising that it shouldn't be opened until the 24th. Which I actually would have obeyed, if not for the "BREAK ALL THE RULES" note on the back. So I broke the rules and have been rewarded with some hot cocoa, which definitely went to good use because it was freezing in NYC last night.

All in all, thank you SO MUCH, Santa! You did a better job than I could have remotely asked for, and I am going to enjoy each and every one of these gifts!