When I opened the box, part of me wanted to walk away because I felt like I didn't deserve all the gifts it housed. It was filled to its edges with an assortment of wonders with wrapping skills that put my abilities to shame.

Once I unpacked the box, Elsie (my purrball) did the necessary sniff check. One of the (less flattering) pictures of her seemed to mirror my expression quite well: mouth agape.

Upon opening the card, I was touched to find that my Santa had made a donation to the North Shore Animal League (www.animalleague.org). I volunteer at a local animal shelter, along with having my hands and heart full with two elderly furballs of my own. It was wonderful to know that a little Christmas cheer will be forwarded to animal in need :).

The remainder of the gifts were matched in thought and care, as each one had been individually (and perfectly) selected.

*House of Leaves - an intriguing looking book written with unconventional methods! ..and since it's one of my Santa's favorites, I'm eager to break it in :)

*Brick (DVD) - One again highly recommended by my Santa. It looks great, I'm game! Movie night this weekend!

*Lion King Keepsake Ornament - PERFECT. The Lion King was a large part of my childhood. Forget those Disney princesses, Simba wins any day! I'll put this next to my other TLK ornament :D

*Seasonal fleece throw - Additional layers are always appreciated when you're a cold-blooded lizard. I'll see if I can keep this for longer than a day before the cats move in on it.

*Jewel Christmas CD - Another recommendation from Santa! I have to admit, I actually didn't own any Christmas music.. so now I'm covered! Woo-hoo!

*Snowmen mug - Wonderful :D I love mugs. I don't even drink coffee but I just love having cups with handles. Functional!

*Goumas Candy - I would die if I was allergic to peanut butter. Literally and emotionally. BUT I'M NOT. So I get to eat these amazingly wonderful peanut butter chocolates :D (I already ate one. Guilty.)

*DOTA2 Bandana/Team Fortress 2 Gift Wrap - MMO gaming paraphernalia. Need I say more? :D

..and a Yeti lollipop with an attached mouth piece, haha. That is hilarious (and something I will not eat in public, SORRY, I'm a spoilsport)!

..and with that, I feel like I've written half a novel (if only that were true!). TL;DR - my Santa was beyond amazing and I have loved every moment of this exchange. Thank you, thank you, thank you. I wish you all the best this holiday season! Merry Christmas! :D