I just want to say, I'm not entering the raffle. I just want to get in on the discussion. lol
1. My favorite toy overall (though it's a hard choice) is Pretzal. It was the toy that first drew me to fantasy toys. It wasn't the first one I saw, but it was the one that made me go, "We have to get in on this!" I coveted one for years before we could afford to start buying. I love the curve, the ridges, the spines on the base... It is the most unique-looking design I'd ever seen, and I still have yet to find anything that resembles it. As far as how it feels, few toys can make me come faster. It fits me perfectly. My large/medium is constantly in my top three most-used toys. The taper is perfect for me, and slides in without much prep. It has also found my elusive G-spot on a few occasions. My decision is also sentimental, because it was one of my first BD toys.
2. My favorite memory from DM is actually also one of my more embarrassing ones. It's not something I'm proud of, but it cemented this place as a friendly space full of people who are generally very understanding. I had been having a bad time in my personal and professional lives, and I unjustly took it out on someone by chewing them out for some stupid, petty reason that I can't even remember now. Other people rightly jumped down my throat, but the way they did it... It was without venom and hatred. When I broke down and made a ranty status update bawling about how everyone hates me, several people were quick to point out that nobody hated me - I was just acting like an asshat. It made me realize that I had been acting badly, and it actually led me to request a change in medication from my doctor. My behavior had gotten so out of control that I couldn't see it. After that, I changed my medication and got my shit together, and it's partially thanks to the people here.
I am and have been a part of many communities concerning many different hobbies and interests, but the people involved in this hobby are some of the most open-minded, understanding, and willing to confront inappropriate behavior with stern reprimand and a little tough love. You just can't find honesty like that in most places nowadays, unless it's people who are more than happy to curse you out and call you names. Nobody told me to kill myself, or to "get raped" (which is now the standard reply in the video game community whenever someone disagrees with you). I wasn't quietly patted on the head and ignored. I was told to stop acting like a douche, and then forgiven once I apologized. I've told things to this community that I would never, ever share with anyone outside of my close family and friends. For that, I am extremely grateful, and I hope I can give that back by being understanding, supportive, and honest with everyone else.