Post office says there is still time to get packages in the mail _ barely

<br>WASHINGTON (AP) _ There still is time to mail gifts and cards and have them reach their destinations Monday _ but it will cost a little extra, the U.S. Postal Service says. <br><br>Packages sent via

Friday, December 21st 2001, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

WASHINGTON (AP) _ There still is time to mail gifts and cards and have them reach their destinations Monday _ but it will cost a little extra, the U.S. Postal Service says.

Packages sent via Priority Mail on Friday should make it to a loved one's doorstep by Christmas Eve.

The Postal Service's more expensive Express Mail provides a way for procrastinators to push the envelope even further and still get packages under the tree and cards on the mantel in time for Christmas dinner.

Express Mail packages sent Saturday could arrive by Dec. 24, and some areas of the country even have Express Mail delivery on Christmas Day, the Postal Service said. The service advised Americans to check with local postmasters for availability.

There is no regular mail service on Dec. 25.