Wow! This was truly such an amazing exchange.

I opened the package to find a heavy duty linen Wales flag (such a cool flag!!) , a Wales magnet depicting their countries flower- the daffodil, two super cute sheep pencils, a Wales keychain, and six beautiful postcards! That in itself would have been a fantastic exchange!

But- there was also a large very pretty photo album in my package. I opened the album and was speechless. My Santa has filled the album with photos and stories telling me all about where she lives. It felt like a friend had just come back from vacation and was sharing their trip with me! With each photo Santa told me more and more about her country.

Santa lives just a few minutes away from Caerphilly Castle. WOW. It is hard to imagine I would get much done if I lived there- I would be taking photos of that castle in every season, every time of day, and in every kind of weather!! Gorgeous!!!

She told me all about their new Principality Stadium (huge- and I love the flame effects which I am told also gives off a lot of heat to keep you warm! )and their Millennium arts center- what a cool entrance!

She sent me views of Pen-y-Fan Mountain and Snowdonia Mountain – which you can either hike to the top of – or take the stream train to- what a view at the top!! , Brecon Beacons National Park waterfalls- Stunning!!! She sent me a photo of Lake Gwynant- a lake used in the filming of Tomb Raider- how cool!

She told me that they have 398 natural lakes – and that is not including the 90 they built themselves. Llyn (Welsh word for lake) Tegid is said to have a friendly monster in it- Teggie! I love legends – this is so cool!!! I am a huge nature lover- and the natural sights just thrill me!

She also sent me photos of Castell Coch and Cardiff Castle – which are also right in my Santa's area. Such incredible architecture. Castles fascinate me!!

At the end there was a lovely note telling me more about her country and a photo of her championship wining ice hockey team- Great photo- their enthusiasm is infectious! Congratulations!!

The time and effort you put into this – I have no words to really express how touching this was. This is such an incredible gift you have given me! My daughter and son-in-law are planning a trip to Wales and it will be like having a tour guide along as I share all this with them!! I will be adding more photos to the album after their trip!!

What a beautiful place you live in- I cannot thank you enough for sharing it all with me!