Wow... that's an old memory for ya...
BTW, like sinner said, have something over the body. It gives you a little workspace right next to what you're doing. I usually use a few layers of paper towel.
One other thing: when you're desoldering... know what you want to move and where. Get the joint hot, then move. You don't have to rush, but don't sit there with the iron on your parts for five minutes while you figure out what you're doing.