I'm really just fine without the comforts of America, so I don't really need anything. Nor do I want gobs of stuff to fill my house. If people here can live without it, so can I. But if you're just dying to send me something, I thought I'd write down a few simple, light, and inexpensive items that might just improve the quality of my life (though letters will truly do just fine):
~Rennet tablets (should be pretty cheap) and cheesecloth for cheesemaking (my first batch of mango wine is already brewed and delicious if I do say so myself)
~Mac and Cheese packets (I can get the macaroni here, so you can just send the cheese packet with the recipe to save on shipping)
~anything instant (hot cocoa, cider, soup mixes, etc.- though now I have lots of Crystal Light) to reduce cooking times and making drinking water a more pleasant experience
~maps- I've received a US map and a map of the world, which are wonderful, but if you know me well, you'll know that I LOVE maps and I can spend hours and hours looking at them)
~stickers for grading- this is an excellent gift!
~gifts I might give to Tanzanians
I'll add and make changes to the list as I go and think of any more useful items, so check back here if you're looking for things to send. Also, I can really get all my school supplies and such here for pretty cheap, so no need to send those sorts of things.
As far as packaging goes, things sent in a padded envelope that are under 4lbs will be easiest on customs taxes. Label them "educational materials" or something else very vague and if there's anything expensive, don't report the true cost (because customs taxes are steep! They tried to get me to pay $35 to receive a package that was labeled $100 value- not worth it.). I've heard writing Bible verses or putting religious stickers on packages help them get through easier without any mysterious losses, though I have no proof it's true.
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2 comments:
How about anything for your classroom--pens, paper, rulers, etc? Or things that Tanzanians might appreciate as presents if you want to have something to give to those who help you out?
Liv, I just wanted to write a little comment to say hi. And to let you know I'm reading everything you write, and I'm so happy to be able to keep up with you while you're half a world away.
I smiled when you mentioned that Asian PCVs are the ones to become more philosophical. Maybe being in Africa is just bringing out what already existed, but you sure are showing an impressive philosophical bent as well.
Keep the notes coming, and I'll definitely be writing more soon.
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