It is the most wonderful time of the year! I have always loved Christmas. For years as a child I was a devoted believer of SC. I think primarily due to the fact that I was aware that we were not "well to do" but somehow Christmas morning always brought wonderful surprises. One of my favorite Christmas tunes sings of "presents on the tree" One year I actually had a present on the tree. Everything had been opened and a little clean up had begun, when my Dad said, "wait, here is a small box in the branches of the tree." "Santa must have left it especially for you" It was my first "real" watch. Wish I still had it - not for its value, but because my Dad gave it to me.
Now to the subject of Christmas Cards and Letters. We began the tradition of sending out Christmas letters while our family was very young. There were so many to stay in touch with, aunts, uncles, friends around the country, and all that writing was wearing on the hands and time schedule. Now we have a binder filled with a journal of sorts of our life over the last 45 years at least. So, yes, we send out a Christmas letter each year. We send them to almost all folks on our "list". Sometimes, I just put them in a envelope and sometimes I actually also send a card. But that adds considerably to the expense and someone else's clutter after Christmas.
But in all this we have a pet peeve. People who send cards with only their name imprinted and no note at all. Even those who sign their name only merit a casual look. Why go to the time, expense and effort and not share something of their life with us? I would much rather read a long - over glowing letter - surely not all that can be true? than receive a card with only a signature.
This year we tried something new. We sent out most of our letters electronically. So far we have only gotten one negative response. And only one who could not open the attachment. Several have shared how they enjoyed reading, seeing the photo and listening to the music. Yes, I figured out how to attach music to the letter. I feel so accomplished!
So if you have not yet received a electronic card from the Stirlings, and would like one, please let me know. I will click my mouse and get one on the way.
