Getting Mail

I don't think there are postal carriers in Chad, so when western workers receive mail, the only way to get it is to go to the post office and see if anything has come.  And while you are there you might as well pick up all the other packages for all the other western workers and deliver them since you are likely to see them all in the next week or so.  Our friend stopped by the other day with the post so that we could pass along the packages to friends.  Our kids were so excited to see the packages, but disappointed only to find that none of them were for us.  Don't feel too bad folks, we have only been here about 2 months and it's good to get a good taste of Chad before you start craving things from the States.  But, it did remind me that many people have asked for an address, and wanted to know what to include in a package if they were to send one, so I thought I would post it here on the blog for anyone interested.  Surprisingly, the packages sent almost always make it to their destination and it usually takes about 6 weeks (could take longer).

So, if you're interested, here are 4 simple steps to sending us a package...

1.  Go to your local post office and pick up a large "Flat Rate Box".  (The box itself is free.)

2.  Take box home, and fill to the brim.
     Here is a list of possible things that could be included:

*pepperoni (the un-refridgerated kind)
*bacon (we have been told the kraft brand called "real bacon" travels well.)
*tree nuts...no peanuts please
*dried berries
*bacon bits or beef jerkey
*parmesan cheese
*cake or cookie mixes
*rasins
*corn meal
*candy (chocolate only between Halloween and Christmas...the cold season)
*mapeline / vanilla / liquid smoke...
*kool-aid
*ranch dressing mix or taco seasoning
*kids magazines
*fun school supplies
*hair things
*fridge magnets

3. Tape up box...tape it well!  Address to us at:

James and Lindsey Morgan
B. P. 53
Abeche, Tchad
Africa

(And don't forget to include a personal note or better yet, a picture to go along).

4. Return box to post office, fill out one form for customs and pay for postage.  This is the part that speaks love to our family, as it costs about $85 dollars to send a large flat rate box to Chad.
(Feel free to ask any questions you might have before sending.)