Care Packages

I have the best family and friends ever!!! My family sent me a care package from the U.S. for my birthday a couple of weeks ago. And my friends, Steven and Michael, sent me a care package too. It was waiting for me to pick it up when I got back from vacation.

Sending packages from the U.S. is pretty easy. At least it is for me since I'm on the receiving side. I'm told that you can fill out the customs form online and take it to the post office. The best value is to send a Priority Mail Large Flat Rate Box which measures 12" x 12" x 5-1/2". You can send up to 20 lbs (9.09 Kg) for $55.95 (~44 €). It takes about 10 days to receive a package.

We have UPS but it costs way more than just using the post office.

I've received several packages and I've never had any problems. Knock on wood. The boxes have never been opened by customs. Some folks in Slovakia have told me that more than half of the packages they've received from the U.S. have been opened. And sometimes things are missing. Again, luckily I've never had any problems with Česká pošta. It's like Christmas when I get a care package. And it sure helps to have things from home when you're feeling homesick.
Steven and Michael hooked me up with some good provisions for my birthday. I got Jif Extra Crunchy Peanut Butter, French's Yellow Mustard, enchilada sauce mix, ziploc sandwich and freezer bags, Mach III razor blades, BBQ seasoning, lots of Hidden Valley Ranch dressing mix, pickle reslish, fried onion straws, black beans, Goya Sofrito, Mac n' Cheese, and sliced almonds. Thanks guys!!!

EDIT:  Postage rates increased and the price of a care package went from $55 to $77.