Got a fantastic book written by Cognitive Scientists Lakoff and Johnson about how metaphors occupy everyday language, and how they consequently structure our behavior. I've read the first couple of chapters, and am incredibly excited about it. I'm also super happy, because it looks like my Secret Santa really did some research-- I didn't ask for the book, but it completely fits my interests.

The contact juggling book is also really high quality, and gave me the necessary incentive to go out and buy some juggling balls! I'll have to post some progress videos when I get the chance.

The stool softener is both hilarious and extremely pragmatic. My Secret Santa discovered I was living in Tanzania, Africa for the last several months, and had a terrible 3-month stint with constipation. Strangely enough, I got constipated immediately upon arriving to America, and have already put the gift to good use!

Also, my Secret Santa has beautiful handwriting, so I'm posting the letter he wrote me for everyone to admire.

Thanks so much Secret Santa!