To start with i hate the fact that you need us but this is a good place we dont judge and we do get it we have all been where you are right now!! Bu t this is doable! So i thought i would throw some tips together for you all......and i hope people do add to this! 

Ok to start  with mail:  yes i mean the old fashioned letter these are like gold dust in there the guys really do love getting them.....but and big but do do tell your guys to get rid of your return address on your letters this is to keep you safe!!

Phone calls: these keep us san but a few things for you to remember one the co listen to the calls, 2 other prisoners  can and do listen in  there phones are not what you call private hance the reason why the guys dont show much emotions when you talk to them....its a sign of weakness and can make them a target.

Definitely find out what you can and cant send in: you can call the prison or look on there web page if they have one.

Do set a budget!  And do tell them so they know how money you have for calls and visit and to put on for them.  for me i could only put $140 on per month and he had to work out his calls but i had to work how much i need for visits, and all the reast belive it or not he helped to work it and there are places where you should be able to get free advice on budgeting coz hey we still got the day to day stuff.

Visits: you do need to find out how to get on there list each place is a little bit different in how they do this. Do take a change of clothes there rules can change at drop of a hat...and that includes shoes! Have some tissue in your car for after, dont look back when you go!, go by there rules on the visit  (each place is different ) have some small change on you (something you can ask the prison is if theres food available on visit ) for food if they have it. Most importantly enjoy the time you have with them its a chance to talk about stuff you cant on the phone.

Don't get into prison debt......this is really really not a good idea.

Ok what did i forget?