So, I got the shaft this time around for Secret Santa. No big deal, right? I got to send a fun awesome gift to someone else, and they enjoyed it, so I wasn't really too upset about the whole deal.

That doesn't mean, however, that I wasn't absolutely thrilled when my rematch santa pulled through and set everything right!

This was a perfectly matched two part gift, and it took me a while to actually realize that. First, there was a set of silcon ice-cube tray forms for chess pieces. Absolutely rad! Even if I don't get the chance to get out to the park and play winter chess this year (and there's nothing like it, I swear), I will still have on hand a set of chessmen icecubes ready to go. I couldn't think of anything classier.

To go with the icy chess men, my Santa also very thoughtfully included a Zippo brand hand warmer (http://www.zippo.com/product.aspx?id=1025148). Apparently, it consumes its fuel source using a non flammable catalytic reaction. Regardless of my confidence in science, I'm still a bit amazed that I could be carrying around a smoldering jar of lighter fluid in my pocket and not be imminently burning to death. However, since I often go on midwinter camping excursions anyway, and will be combatting frost-bite while playing chess, this is just a perfect choice as a 2nd gift.

So, thank you SOOOO much, Santa! You were very thoughtful, and creative, and really came through. Thanks for signing up to do rematches. Hope you have the best new year!