Jaime C*******, PCV
Mtangatanga CDSS
Box 42
Chikangawa, Mzimba
Malawi
I'm told that the two biggest challenges of sending mail to this part of the world are a) first getting it across the ocean, and b) then deterring postal workers' prying eyes and hands once it's on the continent. For the first thing, write "Air Mail" and "Par Avion" on the envelope; for the second thing, scrawl Bible verses and religious messages anywhere and everywhere. It also helps to undervalue any packages you might send, mail things in a USPS flat-rate box if you can, and declare the contents as "educational materials" or "feminine products." (So basically, draw a crucifix on a Tampon box and it'll get here?)
I'm a simple lady with simple desires, so I certainly don't need packages. But if the spirit catches you and you're looking for inspiration, my brain, my heart, and my stomach would enthusiastically vote for:
- Copies of The Economist, Foreign Policy, National Geographic, Scientific American, The Sun Magazine, or other such cerebral delights (which will inevitably be shared with my students).
- Photos of you and the things you're doing! Mix CDs of the things you're listening to! Words describing what you're thinking about and getting captivated by these days!
- Obscure types of tea, peanut M&Ms, and flavorings that don't need refrigeration (e.g., parmesan cheese, taco seasoning, and sauce packets from Chinese restaurants).
- Dog toys and treats so that at least some of my things will survive Chalo's puppyhood
