Regarding the customs delay, I've experienced that several times.

Earlier this year, David sent some chips from the Gene T. sale. There were a number of them, so the weight / density was probably over their normal handling limit. In tracking the package, I could see that it took a longer time to arrive in the Los Angeles area by surface (ship) mail. But still, it sat in customs for several more weeks before finally arriving to me. Sure enough, it had been opened and had the official "Homeland Security" tape on it.

Bottom line, it seemed like an eternity, but it did finally arrive. Hang in there!