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Notes -
I think you're my special someone, I think I've just got over my heartbreak when ToaKraka shot me down, and I hope the Visa Office does too. DM me your address, shipping is on me!
I'm flattered and I would love to receive your butthole cozy, but alas I don't think my wife would understand. You know how it is, once you get married they don't want you to interact with anyone's butt hair except theirs.
I'm just going to declare this whole exchange the greatest comment thread in the illustrious history of the Motte.
Dudes stay rockin'!
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