Package out to Paul in Iraq

Considering my brother has severed 6 years over seas, previously. And that this is his fourth stay in Iraq, you might assume I would be familiar with sending him packages . . . not so.

I'm really the worst long-distance communicator EVER. I don't write, I don't call, and I don't send packages. I do occasionally email, sort of.

Anyway, I am determined to do better this time and I've been writing him semi-regularly. Hey! It's better than never.

I also just prepared my first package to send to him; I'm mailing it off later today. Like the computer nut I am, I researched online and questioned his wife before making a list of things to send. I included most, but not all of the things on his list as well.

I managed to fill one of the USPS flat rate box for army base boxes. And, I managed to spend around $90. I'm setting there looking at the box going, "What the hell!"

But I sent him magazines, eye drops, lotions, lip balms, most of the food and drink things he asked for, a puzzle magazine, some hacky sack balls, as many packages of non-scented wet ones as I could fit in the box, and a collapsable toilet.

The toilet will not fit in the box, so that will be a second package I have to mail out. Do you think I can consider that a new package . . . you know in that I've now sent Paul two packages? Or is it just part B of the first package? Can't blame a girl for asking. Or, an old woman either. LOL

Anyway, for the first time, Paul is not actually stationed on an Army base in Iraq. He is stationed on an Iraq base, as an Army support personel. This means the quality of his living environment is VERY different that has been previously.

So if you, or your family, want to send a soldier in Iraq a letter or gift package this year; feel free to send on to Paul. He's 30, the father of two boys (around 9 and 11) and a 9-month old daughter. He's normally stationed in Texas, but will in Iraq for the next year.

You can mail your letters or packages to:

SGR Estrada, Paul
268th NSC, 504th BFSB
FOB Sykes
APO AE-09351

If you do send a package, please check out the flat rate Military Discount boxes offered by the post office. They are 50% larger than other boxes of the same price range ($10.95) and pretty much no weight limit.

Have a great December and remember that it should be about family; not the gifts, the expense, the lights, or the parties.