It’s been a mixed bag at the post office during the holidays in terms of traffic. Knoxville Postmaster Brian Linville says that the numbers of packages that have been sent in the area are up this year from last. However, the number of letters and flats being sent has gone down. The Christmas parcel post deadline was last Friday, and Linville says they expect continued traffic as last-minute shippers meet other Christmas deadlines. The express mail deadline is this Thursday. The First Class mail deadline is this Friday. Linville also reminds shippers to package their gifts carefully and to ask about insurance options if they are curious.