packages

I just adore packages. I love getting them, of course, but I also love sending them very much. Today we have a whole load of them getting ready to go out, because I am shipping my end of a CD Mix swap, as well as one or two other things heading out.

One of the things I like the most about putting together care packages, gifts, or swap packages, is the actual packaging. I do not use new packaging materials if I can help it- reusing boxes and padded envelopes as well as packing peanuts, etc. I find that as long as I send out a lot of packages that we almost always have something coming back to us as well, so we are never in need of a box or envelope. Buying things online brings us plenty of boxes too.

I use the kids paintings as a colorful way to cover up the old addresses on the packages, which seems to be enjoyed thoroughly be everyone from the postal clerk to the mail carrier to our recipient! It's a great way to put that multitude of paintings to good use too- we just cannot keep them all. The girls love seeing their artwork being sent out all over the country (and world, now- I have one swap package going to New Zealand this time!) I also use paper grocery bags if the entire package needs wrapping. Heavy duty, and FREE! I do go through a good bit of tape, but in the end I am definitely saving money and I think resources too, as opposed to buying new mailers and boxes each time and throwing away or even recycling the old ones. So clear packing tape is often on my shopping list!

Can I just say too, that these String Bags I got from ECOBAGS.com are just fabulous. I could never have been able to casually walk into the Post Office with this many packages in tow (plus the kids) with such ease before I got these. They stretch to hold a LOT and they are sturdy too. One finger! That's all I need to carry all those packages. I love it!