I have decided that I am jealous of the people who work at the post office.   Not the people that go out in the rain, sleet, snow, tornadoes and what-have-you to deliver the mail in wool pants.  No, I’m jealous of the people at the counter.  I realize it’s not adequately heated there and smells faintly of cigarette smoke (although I don’t know why, since smoking is prohibited in government buildings) but no one there is ever, ever in a hurry.   Especially now that it is just a few days before Christmas and the line spills out the door like that of the men’s room during intermission at a Community Theatre performance. 

 The post office is fun, too.  I never get bored while waiting in line. There’s so much to look at; so many possibilities for an impulse purchase.  They have all of these festive stamps for sale; along with commemorative bags, teddy bears, and other merchandise for people who really, really love the post office.  If you brought something to mail, but forgot to prepare it appropriately for delivery, they have all the tools you need for gift wrap.  Ribbons, paper, bags, boxes…they even have scissors and tape! 

 This year, I’ve decided to bring all of my Christmas shopping and set up a wrapping station there.  It would be easier then doing it at my house.  I wouldn’t have to clear off the dining room table to get started and there would be no small pieces of wrapping paper and ribbon to pick up afterwards.

 Since it would add to the festiveness of the post office, I’m sure they wouldn’t mind.  In fact, you can join me.  You’ll just have to wait in line.

 ~Dad