Secret Santa, you have truly outdone yourself.

I go backpacking and thought it would be nice to survive, apocalypse or not, so I asked for practical gifts. And, omgoodness, my SS blew me away with his thoughtfulness!

My mystery Apocalypse box contained:

Cody Lundin’s 98.6 Degrees: The Art of Keeping Your Ass Alive and Thomas Glover’s Pocket Ref. Guess who’s going to know all the things so they survive? This girl.

George R. Stewart’s Earth Abides, a sci-fi novel chronicling one survivor’s journey after a disease wipes out the human race. I’M SO EXCITED TO READ THIS.

Parachute cord (and bracelet). I’ve already referenced Lundin’s book and can confirm this is the real deal. You can use this stuff for everything!

A BPA-free Nalgene bottle, so I can stay hydrated (and earth-friendly).

And finally, something I’ve needed for so long but have been too paralyzed by choice to acquire myself: a CRKT folding pocket knife. This thing is a beauty and it’s the perfect size for my tiny hands.

BONUS: one amazing Nightmare Before Christmas card. My original survival plan was to "Find someone who can use my tools to protect me. In exchange, I will cook game and entertain." My SS's response? “You don’t have to rely on anyone if you take care of yourself.” Teared up reading that.

This was such a surprise and I am so grateful! I already feel so much more empowered. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!