Care packages 101: the basics

This deployment, I have a much better idea of how to prepare and mail care packages to Mac. My plan is to send at least one box a month. You can ship boxes a whole bunch of ways, but I personally prefer the Post Office’s large flat rate box (also labeled as the APO / AE box) for shipping. It really is a flat rate, and the priority mail is fairly reliable in getting to its intended destination (though you do not have tracking or delivery confirmation). But if your solider is at a more remote base, delivery can take longer.

And, thanks to Pinterest, I have a lovely list of potential themes for the upcoming year.

January – décor for his room
February – Valentine’s Day: I’m going nuts thinking about you (because I love squirrels, duh)
March – Mac’s birthday and first date recreation
April – Easter (some bunny loves you)
May – May the Fourth be with you (Star Wars)
June – wedding anniversary
July – Fourth of July / America
August – summer
September – Hokie football
October – fall and Halloween
November – Thanksgiving
December – Christmas

I ordered a package of 25 flat rate boxes and customs forms from the Post Office. Just go to their website, and order however many you want. They will be delivered to your address fo free. The Post Office did redo their customs form, but none of the information you need to fill out has changed (they changed the paper size and the font. I’m sure that was a good use of taxpayer money).

Next time, I’ll post about what to put in those care packages.