Yay Abi! As you know, I was worried - I thought I'd timed it to arrive while you were at your folks', but APO mail is tricky to time, to say the least.

It's Athena, yes?

It is...it may not be the prettiest necklace, but as totems go, Athena is a good one. It is a replica (not to scale) of the statue of Athena that stood in the Parthenon in ancient times. (Although, the guy I bought it from has just been accused of espionage against Americans, so you might try speaking clearly and slowly into it.)

Laura -- I'm so glad you liked everything! I had so much fun shopping for you.

It got there the day I left. I just happened to be ather I left that day.

That's what Elsa (my Greek friend) told me, about the statue (she also told me that the chocolates were from a famous candy place, and very much enjoyed the piece I offered her) (How not to scale? Did she have a big head?)

I had no idea that the horseshoe thing wasn't American. Huh.

Well, they'll be learning a lot about American grammar. Later, there may be mathematics. Perhaps I should sit closer to SciFi Friday tonight. That would be funny intel.

Secret Santa O' Mine -- who did not reveal him/herself -- I'm pretty sure I know who you are, and you've been so busy that I am *extra* appreciative of my prezzies. Thank you thank you thank you!!!

you're welcome! yeah, after I'd sent the gift, I came home and found the fun card with the incredibly witty message on the floor next to the wrapping paper. sorry about that. the sparkly thing is technically an ornament, but I just loved the sparkliness, and I bought a few to add to presents instead of bows. hadn't thought of the suncatcher idea, that's awesome! Glad you liked it!

Many thanks to my secret Santa MFNLaw, who sent me a wonderful assortment of international foodie items including a rack with bottles of flavored olive oil and balsamic vinegar, caviar, seafood rub, and peppermint candy. Also a beautiful pair of wine goblets that are now occupying a place of honor front and center in my china cabinet.

Everybody to Matt's place for dinner!

Alas, I have nothing in the apartment to season with the seafood rub and oil & vinegar, hence my journey to the land of Schrodinger's Waitress tonight. I'd better lay in more supplies of a staple variety to accentuate with those flavorful goodies before having lots of friends over.

Yay! It got there, and nothing was broken, I assume.

I'm so glad you like it. When I saw the fig-infused balsamic vinegar, I knew you had to have it.

My apologies for its tardiness, but I hope it was worth the wait!

fig infused vinegar. I wonder if I coud make it.... not sure I could do it with balsamic....

It would make a yummy vinagrette.

For New Year's my friend Traci made a figs stuffed with chorizo and wrapped in bacon, then broiled. SO bad for you, but very, very tasty.