It Means More
By Lauren, age 17, California
Sweet Designs Featured Writer
Cards are the easiest, cheapest, and most traded gifts during this season - but generally mean the least to people. The 99 cent blank holiday tree card and green envelope is still a nice gesture, but most still feel gypped when they receive one - it almost sends an undercurrent message of "you weren't worth the time."
So make them worth the time - and don't spend another dime!
I've made hundreds of handmade cards in my lifetime, for all sorts of occasions. You don't need a set of 46 colored pencils, color printer, or the world's finest markers to make a card. All you need at minimum is a piece of paper and a pencil. There's no meaning to a card with simply "To:_____" and "Merry Christmas, signed __________". Make it personal!
Often, even as common a phrase as "may all your wishes come true in the new year" will grant you a more sincere thanks and a better relationship with that person. It doesn't take much to personalize a card, but it's well worth the time to do it.
Also, don't hesitate to put personal information in it if it is addressed to a grandparent or other relative. Most want to know what you've been up to and "stay current" with your activities and accomplishments.
If you have absolutely no idea what to write, try these starters and finish the sentence:
I've really appreciated ...
I hope you have a wonderful ...
I'm looking forward to ...
Wishing you a happy holiday, and a fabulous 2012,
Lauren
