Sending a care package to a loved one who is across the state in college or across the globe in the military? It's a great way to send a wonderful message that says they are special, loved and missed. You'll want to include special items for every day, but also include care package items that are fun and thoughtful to truly brighten their day. 

1. Tame That College Anxiety

You’ve safely delivered your child to college, and now you’re worried about, well, everything. Ease your worries by sending a care package that helps him or her adjust to new surroundings while not making you seem clingy. Start with large packages of candy and other treats, to help them power through late-night cram sessions, and load up on games and puzzles.  Include items they use at home, but might not be able to buy so easily while away at school.  Computer games are also a  great choice, for down time enjoyment alone or with college friends. 

2. Help New Moms Savor The Moment

New moms often feel overwhelmed and stressed during the early days of motherhood, and a care package creates a fun way to show your support. Remind her to take care of herself with toiletry items that she can use to pamper herself. Scented soaps, bath salts, candles and moisturizer help her look and feel great so she is feeling revitalized when it’s time to focus on her bundle of joy. Give her everything she needs to start a scrapbook, so she can savor the little things. Basic supplies like colored paper, colored pens or pencils, scissors, glue and staples are a good start to spark scrap booking ideas, and remember to find a binder or book that one of you can decorate with her child’s name and birth date.

3. Thank Those Who Serve

There is no greater sacrifice than serving your country, so support the troops closest to you with a care package that they can always remember. Cookies, candy and other sweets can be shared with fellow soldiers, so add a large variety to your care package. Ask friends and family member to send their favorite drawings to keep near them when on duty, and send plenty of paper and markers they can write letters and send pictures back. If you really want to make a splash, throw in some gaming software and give everyone them the fun diversion they are sure to need. 

4. Stay Close to Friends

Care packages are also great when a close friend moves away. If your friend is a coffee lover, send small samples of new coffee brands. Make this a theme over time, sending different brands, mugs and other coffee accessories each time. Or, send an organizer or notebook, and trade flash drives with your favorite saved photos, mementos and articles. 

Absence may make the heart grow fonder, but care packages can do that as well. Show your favorite loved ones just how much they mean to you and how much you miss them with candy, pictures, notes and other goodies. It might just give them the idea to pay you a visit!