This is the first time I’ve had to ship packages across the United States at the holidays. Yes, I caved and bought presents. Though Oxfam is a good idea and easy to ship, my kid wanted to send Grandma and Grandpa school pictures and drawings. I wanted to send my brothers some of that raspberry chipotle sauce and my nephew has an obsession with astronauts. So I tromped over to the post office today to request six priority mail boxes.

The post office was packed. I had to circle the block and come back to get a parking spot and I knew it was going to be a wait when I made it in. Surprisingly everyone was in a good mood, holding bright packages and colorful envelopes. I took my place in the line that wound out the door and was thrilled when it moved along quite quickly.

Back at home the boxes are assembled and ready for some cheery stuffings. I'll put them in the mail tomorrow and people should get them early next week. If they don’t end up full, I may put some Houston Chronicles in there. It’s always fun to read someone else’s paper. And next year I vow buy presents that fit into the four dollar boxes.