A Secret to Success as a Working Mom: Turn Burn Out Into Bliss and Embrace Joy

Last weekend my youngest was committed to going to the "Water Steps" a man-made water fall in Pittsburgh by the rivers. (Fun Fact: Three rivers converge in Pittsburgh--The Ohio River, The Monongahela River, and the Allegheny River.)  He kept asking. I knew he was serious when he said, "If you won't take me, I'll ask  daddy!" Given that it was highly unlikely that would happen on an unscheduled day, I relented. So, we went. It wasn’t planned in the way most things in my life are. No calendar block. No checklist. No “productive” purpose attached. And, so in some respects it was uncomfortable. And yet, it seemed necessary. It was the idea of my 8-year-old—offered with the kind of urgency only children possess when something is profoundly important to them.

Holiday Shipping Tips

Needless to say, I spend a lot of time at the Post Office this time of year. Last year I paid extra in shipping costs because I didn’t get my shopping done until late. This year I decided to turn over a new leaf. Even though the United States Postal Service is having money problems it’s not my responsibility to fix it by paying extra shipping costs.

This year I am doing a little better than usual. I made my first trip to the Post Office on Saturday, December 15th, which is a record for me. I mailed presents and cookies. I was fortunate that the line wasn’t very long. I also learned a money saving tip that I will share with you.

United States Postal Service Saving Tip

  
When you ship your items, be sure to use the most economical method. The Post Office has "Flat Rate" Priority Mailing boxes. However, they only make sense if you're mailing something heavy that fits in the box. For all other things, use a regular Priority Mail box, and send it. Remembering that tip can save you a few bucks.

United States Postal Service Deadlines for Holiday Shipping

In case you ship gifts like I do, here are the Christmas shipping deadlines and a link to the United States Postal service to find out additional information.

-- For first class mail, you have until Thursday, December 20th.
-- For Priority Mail, it's Friday, December 21st.
-- For Express Mail, the deadline is Saturday, December 22nd.

CLICK HERE to go to the United States Postal Service website.
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