I set up the Presto printing mailbox for my 83 year old mother this week. We have a large family scattered all over the country (9 brothers and sisters plus 13 nieces and nephews).

Naturally it's great for my mother to be receiving letters and pictures from everyone. Honestly, though, this is just really convenient for the rest of the family. Let's face it. Darn few people write letters anymore (unfortunately), but most of us think nothing of popping off a quick email. This way the family can send mom a note on the fly. I think this will make it a lot easier for us all to keep in touch with her. So far a number of siblings have sent notes, which is wonderful for my mom.

Buying Process:

I ended up lucking out on a great deal with this. I wish I had realized at the time just how great it was. I would have bought a few more (and ebayed any I didn't end up using!). I got mine for $30 at buy.com on the day after Thanksgiving. Haven't seen a deal like that since then.

Account Setup:

The online setup was pretty easy. The only challenge I had was that the web site was acting up the day I tried to sign up, so it took a while before the server was back up. When I tried to call in to do it over the phone, their voicemail box was full. Once that was sorted out, the sign up process was fast and easy.

Physical Setup:

My mom only has one phone outlet in her house (1920's bungalow), so I ended up buying a wireless jack to use so I could work around that limitation. The account manager features on the website have been very easy to work and I have added a number of names to the approved email sender list. I had to take off tape that was securing the unit, but that was all well marked. I plugged it in the wall and plugged in the phone cord, put in the paper and ink and Voila! Very easy.

In our case, we take turns staying with my mom, so one of us is generally there to put in the paper or ink. My mother likely couldn't handle that (she's not only elderly but struggles with parkinsons and arthritis as well as being computer-phobic), even though it is very easy.

Overall Thoughts:

 I'm really glad I am trying this. I'll try to remember to report back in a few weeks to update you on how we are liking it.

Marie