Why Do You Send Holiday Cards?

Behold, the Duffy family holiday card of 2011 has arrived!

Front:

Back:

It took not one… but two photo sessions to capture the right images in this card. The first one was the wrong time of day. The kids were cranky and the lighting was wrong. We were all sweaty and stressed… and it showed. So we recreated the “moment” a week later, except earlier in the day. Clothing, hairstyles, and make-up were nearly the same. (Spot the difference and you get a prize… and by prize, I mean a hardy “Good job!”)

It took another week to get the images from the photographer, and a few more days to pick the right card and wording. Finding gorgeous holiday cards was simple. It was picking just ONE that was the hard part. Regardless, the entire process took a lot time and energy that, quite frankly, I have very little to spare these days.

So, why do I even bother?

I would like to think that our friends and family would notice if we didn’t send cards this year– that the Duffy mugs and our holiday greetings of good cheer and love would be greatly missed on their mantle, door frame, or wherever else one displays holiday cards. On the other hand, I would like to think that people would totally understand…

After all, I’m not that great about sending birthday greetings and (shameful admission) were it not for Facebook to remind me, I would probably forget entirely.  I have two little kids! I’m a working mom! We have a busy life! These are things that my dearest already know about me (and they love me anyway).

So, again, why do I bother sending my annual Christmas card?

It’s because I’m not that great with everyday greetings, and this is my one time of the year to tell people that I still think of them– everyday, in some way– even if I don’t have the time to call or email or whatnot.

It’s because I am a busy working mom, and it’s important to reflect and remember for whom and why I am working  so hard.

It’s because I have two terrific kids (and a wonderful husband) and I want my pride in them to show.

It’s because my dearest family and friends DO care to know how we are doing.

It’s because getting a photo done, picking out a card, and finding just the right words is as close to handmade as I will ever get, but the sentiment, care, and love is just as deep.

It’s because I really do love all of you so much… and wish you a Happy Christmas and a New Year filled with boundless joy and rich with  blessings.

Disclosure: I have been contracted to work for Tiny Prints through the holiday season. Regardless of my employment status, I order holiday cards every year and will continue to do so for as long as possible! I have not been compensated for this post, and the thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. 

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