Leather Smalls

Smalls that came with the bags. I'm already using some of them. I love the journals.

 

Last of the Bags

Last bags I've bought this year. The green is what I am currently carrying; it will be switched out in the next day or two.

 

Blooming Orchid

The orchid that Leonora got me last year is blooming again. It looks so pretty, and it's staying good, too.

 

Little Totes

The results of my little crossbody mystery box from Portland Leather Goods. I'm pretty happy. Going to be using them.

 

Marine Ball Gifts

Bottle opener challenge coins from the Marines this year.

 

Stuff from Science Museum

Some of my favorite parts of the Manchester Museum of Science and Industry were closed last month when we visited, but we did get to see the textile room. Picked up a few souvenirs.

 

Gifts from Stela

Stela was in Warsaw for a concert and we met up. She gave me this beautiful book that I helped edit and some candies to remember Moldova. It was great seeing her again.

 

Gift from Mary Ann

Mary Ann's son is now in Poland! He brought these gifts from the Philippines for us. Thank you!

 

Gift from Andy

Andy and his wife gave us this truly awesome rude food. It's fried brown sugar and tastes great, even if it looks like it shouldn't be in mixed company.

 

Gin

This is Polish-made Legacy Gin. It is sooo good. The floral notes are dominant with an undertow of juniper.

 

KitKat Box

Decided to try Japanese KitKats from ZenPop. Have yet to get around to opening them.

 

Gift from Alina

Alina brought me Moldovan wine and this cute wood cutout when she came for an exchange of experience last year. I love it.

 

Garage Sale Frames

I picked up these frames at a garage sale. They will have stitching put in them eventually. Didn't know Poland had sales like this until I walked past this one.

 

Fab Fit Fun Winter Box

Lots of skincare in this box. Andreas claims I'm collecting bento boxes. I think I will use these things.

 

Thanksgiving Cookie

One of the cookies the embassy cafeteria gave out with Thanksgiving dinner. It's kind of cute.

 

Cyclamen from Leonora

Leonora got me this beautiful plant. Thank you, Leonora! We miss you!

 

Ice Cider

Leonora found this for me. It's sitting in the fridge. I need to open and try it. Thank you, Leonora!

 

Christmas Cards

Andreas convinced me to get Christmas cards this year. I'll be putting them to use.

 

Thank You Gift

Paulina gave me this in thanks for giving her some brisket. Poles love it too! Andreas ate the orange.

 

Brisket

Brisket straight from the smoker. Polish beef. It's hard to get a good cap of fat on the brisket here, but it still tastes very good.