It’s not hard to find discussions among bloggers (and others) about whether blogging has any benefits. Last month, I happily encountered a very clear material benefit to blogging: chocolates!
A kind reader of this blog noticed that my birthday was coming up and proceeded to send me some very yummy chocolates. Thank you, dear reader, ’twas a very nice surprise, and rest assured, the chocolates have been treated with utmost respect.

I got a samurai sword in exchange for links. And once someone sent me a can of chipotle peppers.
I got an Xbox video game in return for a review of the game posted on my blog. That felt nice.
I know it’s late but belated happy b’day.
Gosh, those sound fun, I’m glad I’m catching up!