Christmas is coming. . . via USPS

One of the things that I like to tackle early in the holiday season is the preparation of packages that must be mailed. Concerned that the United States Postal Service may not care quite as much about the timely delivery of the carefully prepared packages as I do, I try to get them out early as to assure they arrive safe and sound, well in time for December 25.

The problem this year is that I have had a difficult time carving out a few minutes to get everything wrapped, labeled and sent on its way. One night last week our kitchen was littered with bubble wrap, tags, rolls of tape, Sharpies and tissue paper for the better part of two hours and when all was said and done, the packages above were ready to make their way across the country and to the homes of my loved ones. Thank goodness for delivery confirmation.
Today I found myself walking around the house fretting, wringing my hands, feeling useless, all the while worrying about our dear Sammy. Knowing I needed to do something with all of that anxious energy, I decided to work on Christmas cards. I must admit that this year I did a little something that was intended to be a time-saving measure and I am glad I did. I assembled a database and printed labels for each of the cards.

I am a bit particular about my Christmas cards. For years I made my own, each handpainted in a simple design. Eventually my paint brushes ran dry of creativity and I reluctantly turned to "store bought" cards. And, in all honesty, I am very pleased that I did, as I am loving the idea of perusing all of the choices, styles and designs out there. And I can walk through the house without the fear of stepping on a card that is drying in my path.

As you can guess, I had been a long-time advocate of handwriting each of my envelopes for that personal touch. This year, however, I wondered if anyone would really notice the difference and I pondered the thought of perhaps having more time to write the messages inside, not being bogged down by penning all of the addresses.

And it was a success. I am hooked. What a brainstorm. Why haven't I done this all along. The labels are neat and clean. I had lots of time to write something in each card I sent. Everything is sealed and ready to be mailed. This was a godsend among all of the haste and hurry of the holidays. I embrace the change. Yes, I, Ragged, am admitting that change is good, even when it's the smallest of adjustments.