Secret Santa - The First

[bookgazing]

Phew my final secret santa gift is making it's way out to the recipient now. I've very much enjoyed taking part in four secret santa exchanges and seeing what other people have done, plus getting ideas for sort of more effortful things I might incorporate into my gifts next year. Now I'm rubbing my hands and gleefully waiting for my own gifts to arrive. Obviously that began a little while ago when organised Thomas of 'My Porch' sent me my first Persephone books and this week one of my other secret santas (feel free to make yourself know by the way) has sent me a package adressed in very neat handwriting.
They sent me 'Mapping the Edge' by Sarah Dunant who has written some of my favourite historical novels. This book is about a young woman who leaves her family and friends behind without any explanation, to embark on what sounds like a rather bizarre and possibly scary journey. Then there's also 'The Electric Michelangelo' by Sarah Hall, who if you don't know already proved herself a literary goddess with 'The Carhullan Army'. This book came before that slim piece of dysotopian feminism and follows a young man, apprenticed to a tattoo artist. Oh and there are chocolate Santas from M&S to finish off this yummy Christmas treat.

I've been meaning to show you all the final package that came from Thomas, after the Persephones arrived, but the glare that comes from taking pictures after winter 'nightfall' (dark at 16:00 is just silly) so I think I'll have to content myself with telling you about it. First I opened up a lovely letter on Thomas' very own letterhead, which I am so impressed that he has (although I'm not so surprised, knowing how much he likes typefaces) telling me that I was getting some more personal bits and bobs to give me a taste of the city he lives in, Washington DC. I've now got postcards showing lanscape paintings from the White House Art collection and of the Washington National cathedral and a bookmark from the Library of Congress. My absolute favourite part of this package is a desk diary from the Smithsonian Institute, which has the most amazing photography from all the different parts that make it up. I've already spent a good bit of time flicking through and staring at the pictures. Love, love, love it!

And he doesn't stop there. I also received a mini book called 'These Wonderful Books' with famous book related quotes and a package of bookplates. I've never had bookplates before, but I know of some special books that I'm going to keep forever that could do with decorating.

Once again thanks tons to both of the people who have sent me prezzies! It's really helping me get in the seaosnal spirit. I'd like to quickly pass on the Christmas cheer by advising everyone who can to go watch Kirstie's homemade Christmas, where Kirstie Allsop will show you how to make unique decorations (presents are next week) and to pop into Knock Knocking's etsy shop where you can see (and purchase if you're inclined) some of the most original, cheery festive door wreaths I've ever seen.