rite while u can

putting pen to paper in the digital age

Cards you need for June

So you can enjoy the month of June, and have all your cards at the ready, consider getting them now. Want a deal? How about 15% off…if you order by May 31st. Code is listed below.

June can be such a busy month. Especially if you have kids school age. This blog post features cards from Canadian stationery brand called Selah Paper.

Let’s applaud loudly for all the teachers, school, music and coaches out there. They are worthy. My fav teacher card from Selah Paper is the one above, but there are many others to choose from.

Do you know a soon-to-be graduate? Snag a graduation card now and then you can focus on gowns, balloons and parties. Don’t forget to take lots of photos.

Father’s Day is June 21st. This might be a sad day for you or for someone you know. As soon as I saw this card – there are other ‘remembering’ cards too – I had to get it. I’ve never seen a card like this before. So thoughtful.

I hope you love these cards as much as me. Feel free to use code: ritewhileucan (all lowercase) by May 31st to save 15%. Then sit back and watch June unfold and mark the special days with joy and calm.

A big thank you to Sarah of Selah Paper for allowing me to use her product photos and for sharing this discount code with us for all the cards you need in June.

p.s. If you are invited to weddings, baby showers this summer there are great cards for those occasions as well. PLUS….did I mention stickers?! Yes, there are stickers!!

Christmas came early

It sure did! Christmas made an early appearance this year.

Canada Post is NOT on strike this Christmas. A merry turn of events for sure.

You may remember that last year this time, Canada Post was indeed on strike. There were no Christmas cards. Mailboxes remained empty of any mail. Small business’s struggled without having reliable national postal service. Rural communities were left in a lurch. Scrooge would have been proud of all the bah-humbug feels.

This year the mail is moving and I’ve been busy making up for lost time, sending out a ton of cards. The holiday postage stamps are always a favorite part of sending Christmas cards for me. So beautiful they are.

Whether early, late, or right on time, it is the spirit of Christmas that sustains us all. I wish you a mailbox full of Christmas cards and much peace and calm this Christmas.

DIY envelopes from vintage maps

It’s the perfect season for a good DIY. Plus, what else am I going to do while Canada Post is on strike yet again….this is the second time in 10 months. I could rant, but that would be another blog post.

I bought a bunch of vintage maps this summer from Green Turtle Salvage with the idea of making envelopes.

easy peasy

First off, you should know I am not a crafty gal by any stretch, so if I can make these so can you. Papersource envelope templates make it extra easy, which is what I used. You can get similar ones at Michaels here in Canada.

use any paper you want

Basically, all you will need are a pair of scissors, glue stick, the templates (you can also deconstruct an envelope you’ve been sent to use as your template), labels, pencil and paper.

I chose to use maps but you could also use wrapping paper, newspaper (the comic section would be cool), any paper you have.

highlight a specific location for fun

You can see from my photos, you slap down the template, trace the shape with your pencil, cut out, fold, and glue together.

I would suggest, should you want a specific location to feature on the front or back side of your envelope, that you consider where you put the template.

stick on a label

Last step is to put your address label on. This is a necessary step when using maps as you wouldn’t be able to see the address without it. Depending on the paper you are using, you may not need this.

The labels you see in the above photo are from both Paper Plus Cloth shop in Toronto as well as Utility House

To see what else I used the maps for, visit my instagram and look for the reel I posted on Aug 2nd.

What would you do during a postal strike to keep the joy of letter writing alive?

Typewriter Event in Port Hope, Ontario

Come explore the charming town of Port Hope, Ontario on June 22nd and follow the sounds of the typewriters to Furby House Books. You won’t be disappointed.

While International Typewriter Day is technically on June 23rd, we are going to be marking the ocassion one day early. Drop-in between 12-2pm and try a vintage typewriter. Write a letter, a poem or whatever the keys inspires.

lineups for real

Last year the bookstore was a-buzz with folks of all ages. At some point there were even lineups – love this – for the typewriters. While you are waiting your turn there are so many things in this bookshop to look at.

Books, and more books, of course, but also really nice stationery items including typewriter notecards, puzzles, and even themed socks. If you come out, you will not be surprised to notice my socks…for now it will remain a mystery. Ha!

Hope to see you later this month in Port Hope, Ontario.

P.S. while in Furby’s why not snag a Port Hope postcard, share about your fantastic day and drop in the mailbox, just up the street from the book shop.

Card Lady in Aisle One

I answer to ‘Card Lady’ now. And I’m pretty darn happy about it. My new nickname has been bestowed on me by the lovely people who work in the stores I service as a merchandiser for Carlton Cards. Yes, you read that correctly. So many questions, right?

‘Hiya, card lady!’

No better greeting in my mind, as I walk into my local dollar store. It has been about six months since I started this gig. The back-story is that my last kid went off to Uni far away and to be honest, I was a bit of a mess. I was sad, the house was too quiet and I had to get out of my funk.

glimpse of humanity

My job is very part-time, I set my own hours, it’s fun AND its all about snail mail! How crazy awesome is that? The Easter cards are flying off the shelves right now and I’m stocking Mother’s Day and Grad cards at the same time. What I love the most about my job are the glimpses of humanity that happen in my card aisle.

April is National Letter Writing Month

Like the other day for example. A young boy, I’m guessing five or six years old was cruising down the aisle with his mom. Abruptly he stops right in front of the Easter cards. I could hear his mom telling him he didn’t really need an Easter card. But the little guy was very convincing and as he passed me with card in hand, I overheard his mom tell him he better be sure to write the Easter Bunny a nice note.

I’m keeping a journal of my experiences in the card aisle – I think there is the making of a good story there, so stay tuned.

Happy Easter to each of you, and if you are looking for something to do for the rest of April, you should send some snail mail as it is National Letter Writing Month after all.

why send a Valentine?

Here are my top 5 reasons why you should send a Valentine:

  • the postal strike is over!
  • it’s winter and we could all use something that warms the heart
  • sending love and kindness never gets old
  • time is fleeting, don’t waste it, say how you feel now
  • it’s fun to send snail mail

I’m making up lost ground since mail was not being delivered here in Canada over the Christmas season and sending out more Valentine’s that usual. How about you? Are you sending any Valentine’s?

If you really want the ‘wow’ factor, send a Valentine with a special Valentine’s post mark on the envelope. I like to send one to myself at the same time since the post marks are so beautiful. If you need more motivation to send a Valentine here are 3 more things that do it for me:

  • cheaper than chocolate or over priced dinner on Feb 14th, and I would argue, more thoughtful and full of meaning
  • you don’t have to think about what to write – the theme is already set for you – love, like, gratitude, ‘will you be my crush’ kinda thing
  • it will surprise and delight

Let me know if you have any romance stories that came about as a result of sending/receiving a Valentine. I would love to hear about it.

Mail strike means no Christmas cards

It is 10 days before Christmas. I sit here feeling very ‘humbug-ish.’ I am thoroughly frustrated by the sad fact that the postal system here in Canada has been and IS STILL on strike after four weeks or so.

Unacceptable. Yes, I realize there are important matters at hand. Yes, I know each side says they can’t do without certain conditions, but honestly, I’m so over it.

‘Twas the night before Christmas and all the mailboxes were silent

I feel for the small businesses who are scrambling to find alternative shipping choices that don’t break the bank. And rural locations in Canada that don’t have any other choices available.

But what really tipped the mail scales for me was when I read a recent headline (source shall not be named) that quoted a Union member saying that “Santa sides with us.” I can’t even.

And if that wasn’t bad enough, there was an unofficial invitation made to kids to come to the picket line and bring their letters. Really? How would Santa really feel about children going to a picket line?!

Spider and web take over my mailbox

This is the first year in my snail mail loving life that I have not sent out Christmas cards. And I’m grouchy about it.

A local spider has taken up residence in and on the side of my mailbox. Perfect place as no longer any opening or closing of the lid, perfectly undisturbed. I’ve decided to let her spin her web and see how it goes while there is no mail delivery.

At first glance the absence of Christmas cards doesn’t mean much. Maybe you never sent them anyway.

For me, the mail strike has really shown how much sending cards at this time of year means. A little connection point with family and friends, near and far. It feels like you’ve chatted, gotten updates on your loved ones and wished them a Merry Christmas.

It delights both the sender and those that receive. Christmas cards spread joy.

So….in lieu of physical Christmas cards this year….I wish you wonderful holidays. And can we please end this strike now!

Port Hope Ontario Typewriter Guild

The historic town of Port Hope is a perfect setting for the next meet-up of the Ontario Typewriter Guild. I mean, honestly, this town is gushing with charm. Think ‘Stars Hollow’ from the Gilmore Girls series. Or if that doesn’t resonate with you, I find very it similar to a mashup of Niagara-on-the-Lake in Ontario and Inglewood area of Calgary, Alberta.

Free Event, Please register

Donations are most welcome to cover the cost of the venue and refreshments but this event is free. Please register here. Having attended a prior event, I can tell you that it is a fantastic time. You will get to try other typewriters, learn about basic maintenance and meet other typewriter aficionados or those that are curious about these beautiful machines. There may even be a few typewriter vendors and repair experts on site.

See you on November 16th! Directions to St. Johns Church.

save 20% at leuchtturm1917

Yup. You read that right. I’ve left a code for you at the bottom of this post. In the meantime, take a look at this amazing journal and pen that I was gifted by Leuchtturm1917. Plus the cutest pen loop…I didn’t even know such a thing existed, but it’s brilliant!

keep things in one place

I chose the Accordian Notebook by Monocle (a particular notebook line within Leuchtturm1917) because I thought it would be perfect for having everything in one spot for letter writing. It fits stamps, postcards, and enough paper for 2 page letter. Amazing! Plus the other half is an actual notebook so I can jot down whatever I want when not writing letters.

slow living

A hidden little gem at the back of the journal is this section with various ways ‘for living a quieter, more considered life.’ Love this.

One of the many reasons I love letter writing so much is that it is all about slowing down, getting off screens and enjoying the quieter things we don’t often make time for. Journaling or writing in a beautiful notebook does the same thing.

Grad gift giving made easy

What I find to be both a helpful and unique feature of this notebook is that you can designate topic areas within the notebook by noting page number at the front.

I feel like 20% off anything at Leuchtturm1917 would be make a great grad gift. You can get the name of your graduate embossed on the journal. Sets them up nicely for Uni next year or whatever their future plans are.

I’m not fussy when it comes to pens…

See that pop of yellow to the right of my page above? That is the pen loop!! For me, this little pen loop, which comes in several colour options, is a game changer. I will always know where my pen is!! This pen loop is adhesive and you are able to position where you want it on your notebook.

Speaking of my new pen, I can’t close off before telling you a couple of things.

First off, I’m not a pen afficionado. I don’t care a whole lot about my pen as long as a few things are true. 1) it writes smoothly on the paper, has a great flow feel to it, and 2) feels great to hold in my hand, 3) I’m not a fan of pens with lids…I always loose them.. so I prefer a click or twist option to activate the pen tip.

This ball point Drehgriffel Monocle meets all my criteria. A bonus is that it has refillable inks in both black and blue.

What would you use this journal for?

Enjoy 20% off at Leuchtturm1917 with the code: BARB20

Mailboxes of Port Hope

I’ve fallen hard for my new home town of Port Hope, Ontario, Canada, I mean, how could I not with its historic downtown and the many beautiful century homes?

Today on the blog I welcome you to view the ‘mailboxes of Port Hope’ gallery. I have a sneaking suspicion it is the first of a few such gallery posts as I’ve only just arrived.

Did you notice the two little decorative doggies welcoming all incoming mail at number nine?

Above and below photos show this creative and clever homemade mailbox. Toolbox and wrench. Genius.

I particularly like the wrench as the ‘flag’ on the mailbox. Fun fact: the flag on a mailbox is called a carrier flag and when up it means there is outgoing mail to be picked up.

I call this house the pastel house. Perfect for Spring. This sage green mailbox is a gem.

Regal this one. I imagine very important mail being delivered to this box.

Honestly I swoon every time I walk past this house. Such style. And the mailbox is no exception.

Tell me, which mailbox do you like best?

Stay tuned for the next edition of ‘Mailboxes in Port Hope.’

sending Christmas cards made easy

Canada Post stamps for sending mail to the USA

Time to mail all the Christmas cards and Holiday greetings. It’s snail mails shining season. And I love all things about it. But I recognize it can feel overwhelming, like an obligatory chore even. Here are some of my top tips to put the joy back into sending Christmas cards:

*Get your postage stamps early – especially if you want the holiday themed ones, they often run out. It also saves you from worrying about it later when you are ready to sit down and write the cards. Aren’t this years stamps from Canada Post beautiful. Which ones do you like best?

*Family photo card? Get the camera out now. Don’t make it a bigger deal than it needs to be and don’t hold out for the ‘perfect’ shot. Some of the best family photo cards over the years for me have been the casual ones and even some ‘blooper’ ones.

*Set up a designated space in your home for writing your Holiday mail. This way you can pop in and out and write a few cards when you feel like it without having to go through the whole ordeal of regathering supplies and setting up. If no corner is available, put all supplies in a tote bag and pull out when you need. This option also lends itself nicely to writing cards in cafes or at your library.

*Don’t forget why you are sending the cards. It is that magic of snail mail, that personal connection that travels from mailbox to mailbox that means so much. We are sending our holiday greetings and best wishes to people we care about. It is about caring and making time for people.

Keep reading for more tips…

Canada Post stamps for sending International

Mailing deadlines

*Start earlier than later – nothing worse than ‘cramming’ to get your cards done. Kinda sucks the joy right out of the whole experience. Mailing deadlines for cards (not packages) set out by Canada Post for Canada are as follows:

LOCAL – December 19th

REGIONAL – December 18th

NATIONAL – December 15th

USA – December 12th

INTERNATIONAL – Dec 1st (depending on country there may be slightly different deadline dates)

More info on mailing deadlines by Canada Post

Holiday Mail deadlines from United States Postal Service

Royal Mail has their own schedule as well

Canada Post stamps for mailing within Canada

Try something new

* Send out your holiday mail later – perhaps waiting until the New Year is an idea that works better for you. Sending out a ‘Happy New Year’ card would delight and also lighten the burden of the Christmas deadline

* Holiday card swap – a twist on the cookie exchange, suggest to your friends a card swap, how fun would that be! Include a recipe inside.

*next level – take your card decor up a notch by using washi tape, wax seals or vintage holiday stamps

* Host a Christmas card writing party – invite all your friends and tell them to BYOC (bring your own cards), put the hot chocolate on and write your cards. A Christmas Letter Writing Social if you will.

What other ideas do you have that would encourage all of us to send Christmas cards?

Letter Writing Club box

I would have camped out overnight at my Post Box this week if they would have let me. That’s how full of anticipation I was to receive a lovely gift from Cody Calligraphy Launching Sept 12 is her Letter Writing Club and I got a sneak peek at the subscription box full of letter writing goodness.

Now you get my crazy excitement! Right?!

warning to all stationery addicts

I gotta say, this box did not disappoint. Oh. My. Word. My stationery addiction just kicked in overdrive.

From the beautiful packaging, the wax seals (with adhesive), to beautiful ‘a note to say hello‘ postcards – did you see the scalloped edges – to the sweetest vellum envelope containing vintage postage stamps for mailing. All of it swoon worthy.

Discount code

For a full unboxing, please head over to my Instagram page to see me open it.

Funny thing…the box had way more in it that I thought. I didn’t dig deep enough the first go around, haha! Such beautiful envelopes with liners to dream about, and lined, loose leaf sheets of writing paper.

Best part? More letters are sure to be written thanks to this letter writing club box.

Second best part? I’ve got a 10% discount code for you. Use: RITEWHILEUCAN as of September 12th to sign up for the inaugural box.

Note: contents of boxes may vary slightly, but all things will be beautiful

Thank you to Cody and special mention to goes to Arianna Del Mundo for these beautiful photos.

My trip to the Toronto Stationery Show

My trip to the Toronto Stationery Show in April was a dream come true. Having watched from afar, and then virtually, it was exciting for everyone to be able to have back the in-person show. And, I gotta say, it did not disappoint.

Keep reading to see my stationery haul. I really had to work at containing myself…haha!

Stationery people are the best

I wasn’t sure exactly where I was going, being new-ish to Toronto, but when I hopped out of my Uber the line up around the building convinced me I was in the right place. Did I mention it was a couple of hours before general entry and that it was raining? I love stationery fans! So dedicated!

The $30 dollar VIP early entry ticket was worth every penny. I would highly recommend it should you be able to attend next year. It allowed me to have 60 minutes of shopping time before the masses came through the doors, plus the cutest canvas tote bag. Best decision ever.

Important to note that the event itself was free to all.

be a fan girl

I’ve loved Love Lettering forever and it was so lovely to finally meet Doris in person and fan girl all over her envelopes. One of the envelopes I picked up says “Sorry I’ve been crappy at staying in touch!” Accurate and funny to me.

If you are on social media, all the vendors are deeply grateful for any photos taken and shared. Some of these stationery makers often work other FT jobs and this side gig might be a dream of something bigger. I love to support as much as I can.

tips on attending the show

It was when I was a sponsor to the TSS a few years back that I first discovered WaskStudio. Such clever, creative little stationery items. Which do you like best?

Should you plan to attend in the future, here are some tips for you to think on:

  • arrive early, at least 1 hr before it opens, even earlier if you want to get a swag bag
  • bring water bottle, snacks, umbrella, bag for your purchases
  • if you have the means, definitely get the VIP early entry ticket. once general entry opened it was packed, at least 4 people deep in front of every table.
  • before arriving know what vendors you ‘must’ see and start from there, consider before hand your budget (ha….mine went out the window, take that as a warning) and if you are gift shopping or for your own stash
  • bathrooms were available on site.

For those not local to Toronto do tune-in to the virtual version of the show on Instagram.

the haul

I will admit up front that this photo captures most of my finds, but not all.

Tote bag by Secret Planet Print Shop (came with my VIP ticket)

Labels by UtilityHouseCO

‘Why is Snail Mail so cool” zine by PaperTrailDiary

Perforated adhesive ‘More Mail’ stamps from Toronto First Post Office by Portland Stamp Company

sticker tape via Phidonpens

Hug Me Binder Clips (shown with Snail Mail zine), Key to the City,

Out of line sticky notes, all three by Wask Studio

Postcards of Toronto by Gotamago

Letter writing paper which is folded as it’s own envelope by Pigeon

See anything you like?

P.S. A huge thank you and congratulations to Andrea and Queenie for organizing such an incredible stationery show.

Christmas Post Office

There could have easily been sleigh tracks leading up to this Christmas Post Office. I had to pull over and investigate. I mean, come on, a Post Office in a house with Christmas garland out front?

This is a Christmas Post Office if I’ve ever seen one, don’t you agree?

Locust Hill is a historic community of Markham, Ontario. The Post Office first opened in 1886 – although I don’t know if in this exact location or building.

Post Office and Residence are one-in-the-same

Yes, this is the public entrance to the Post Office. Note the hours of operation allow for a lunch break for those who work….and live….at the Post Office. I arrived around 11:30am on a Tuesday, so I made it just in time.

I have to admit I felt a little odd walking up to the house and just walking through the door without knocking or ringing a door bell. But that only lasted a second because a friendly voice welcomed me in, and soon I found myself chatting with Julie the Post Mistress.

The local hub of Locust Hill

People who live in the area still pick up their mail here. That is to say, in the front porch of the residence of Julie. There is a door to the right of these mail slots, shown above, that leads to her private living space.

Isn’t that the best?! No doubt Julie knows every single person and I bet could tell a tale or two about the lovely locals.

It is in the simple things we find the spirit of Christmas

It was through that exact door that Julie momentarily left me and came back with this super huge tray of homemade shortbread, all tied up pretty with red ribbon. You know I didn’t say no when she kindly offered me some. They were delicious and barely made the ride home before they were gone.

As we approach the final days before Christmas, I hope this Christmas Post Office reminds you that it is in the simple things…the giving of cookies, the conversations between strangers, the discovery of something beautiful and unexpected, that lead us to the true meaning of the season.

Merry Christmas and see you in 2023.

Letters to Amelia

Letters to Amelia Earhart actually. Yes, that Amelia Earhart. The first female aviator to fly solo across the Atlantic ocean. And who was lost at sea amidst much mystery. Lindsay Zier-Vogel, a Toronto author, and I share a mutual love of all things snail mails.

We know some of the same (amazing) people in the world of letter writing and of course, if you aren’t familiar with Lindsay’s The Love Lettering Project you will want to be.

Couldn’t put it down

This book, ‘Letters to Amelia’ is very good. It exceeded my expectations. I’ve read other books where written correspondence has played a central role in the story line, but often I find the story itself falls short.

Not the case here. Honestly, I couldn’t put it down. I had to find out what happened to Grace, the thirty-year-old library tech who has just split with her guy of seven years (way more to that plot line, but I won’t give it away) who finds herself reading the newly discovered letters that Amelia Earhart wrote to her lover.

Lindsay gifted me a card she made on a Letterpress with Amelia Earhart’s bright red ‘Vega‘ letter pressed into the paper. I just love it!

Giving away a copy of the book

Set in Toronto, which is now a stone’s throw from me, it was really fun to recognize street names and buildings mentioned in the book. If you like historical fiction genre in general, you should put ‘Letters to Amelia’ on your Christmas list.

Maybe I can play the role of Christmas Elf? I am giving away a new copy to one lucky winner.

All you need to do is comment below sharing a memory that is related to snail mail OR aviation OR both by December 11th. One person’s name will be drawn randomly and the winner will be notified by email on December 12th.

Note: Thanks to Book*hug Press for the free copy.

CONTEST NOW CLOSED – Thank you to all for commenting and reading this post. Congrats to Denise!

candy floss and carousels

Do you have a summer memory of candy floss and carousels?

These vintage carousel stamps from Canada Post feature five vintage carousels from different locations across Canada. One of which is at Heritage Park Historical Park in my city of Calgary. Of course I had to go.

I won’t admit whether candy floss was consumed as part of my most memorable sleuthing trip to find the ‘Bowness Carousel’ but I can confirm it was fantastic fun and created a wonderful summer memory.

In case you decide to take a fun summer time road trip to search out your own candy floss and carousels, here are the locations of the vintage carousels depicted on the postage stamps:

Lakeside Park Carousel – Lakeside Park, St. Catharines Ontario

C.W. Parker Carousel No.119 – Burnaby Village Museum, Burnaby, British Columbia

Roseneath Carousel – Roseneath Fairgrounds, Roseneath, Ontario

Le Galopant – La Ronde, Montreal, Quebec

Would you use these stamps or save them?

My new favorite address book

The pages were falling out, the cover ragged and beaten up, and the paper wearing thin from making multiple changes to addresses over the years. If you own a hard copy address book you might relate.

Paperblanks came to my rescue. They heard of the dire state of my address book and swooped in with this beautiful address book. Paperblanks is a company with beginnings in Vancouver, Canada that makes gorgeous journals, notebooks, planners and more. GIVEAWAY ALERT…keep reading to find out more.

every letter writer needs an address book

No letter writer can be without a system for storing addresses. I prefer and adore hard copy address books. My new one has these letter tabs, which I feel are better than my last book design as less chance of being ripped or torn as they are actually a part of the page itself.

The number of pages per letter is more than adequate. So far, my “B” section has the most addresses, with “M” not far behind.

journals, pencil cases and more

So clever the spots for @ social media addresses too! And the little cell phone icon is adorable. Does anyone even have a land line anymore?

In addition to address books, Paperblanks makes the most beautiful journals. A personal favorite is the Verdi, Carateggio. And guess what? There is a pencil case that is the perfect match. Have a looksee at the Dumas’150th Anniversary

how to win?

Probably my absolute favorite design feature is the back pocket – the memento pouch. A perfect place to store stamps, stickers and stationery for writing a letter to someone whose address is in the main pages. So handy and speaks to the clever, thoughtful design.

I was recently featured on Paperblanks blog, and ever since a friendship has been forged through the mutual appreciation of beautifully crafted stationery items.

Wanna know what you can win? One lucky person will win a journal OR an address book (your choice) AND a pencil case. Perfect for kick starting National Letter Writing Month.

Head over to my Instagram and look for the picture of the Paperblanks journal and follow the directions. Winner will be randomly selected and announced on April 12th. Sadly, due to shipping costs, the winner must live in North America.

P.S. Do you use a pen or a pencil to write in your address book?

Tea and Letter Writing Workshop

A tea and letter writing workshop?

I mean, come on, what could be better together?!

You are invited to join Taniya from @yogateapoetry and myself, virtually, as we mark International Women’s Day.

While sipping tea you will write to a woman that has made an impact on your life. A handwritten note is the perfect way to say thank you or share a word of encouragement.

The cost is $15, of which $5 will be donated to Her International .

Spots are limited to the first 10 people so don’t delay. Please email me to register at: ritewhileucan@gmail.com or dm me on Instagram.

You coming?

Happy Christmas

Dear readers,

Only four sleeps until Christmas. I don’t know about you, but I am very ready for some time off from obligations and timelines. I also can’t wait for the smell of Christmas dinner cooking and opening the Christmas stockings with my family.

A special thanks for following along here and sharing my love of all things snail mail. I appreciate you and the fact that you take the time to visit this little site from time to time.

I want to wish each and every one reading this, a Christmas full of peace, reflection and beauty. And of course, I hope your mail box held a few Christmas cards. Nothing better, right?!

Happy Christmas to you.

See you in 2022,

Barb

p.s. special thanks to my friend Shannon K. who snapped this photo while in Montreal and sent it to me. I love it.

tea and tap in Banff, Alberta

Jolene’s Tea House is located in Banff National Park in Canada, on Bear Street no less. The log cabin, better known as the Old Crag Cabin, is one of the oldest buildings in Banff.

Built between 1888-1890, this building has been many things. A residence, a local newspaper (if you look close enough when inside, you can see a portion of the wall looks ‘cut out’ which it was in order to get the printing press inside) and so many other types of businesses.

Now, as of 2021, the cabin is a tea house. In late November I partnered for the first ‘Tea and Tap” event. It was magical.

first typewriter event since covid

It was most exciting for me because it was the first time I’ve had the typewriters out to greet and be used by the public since Covid. It was SO good to hear the sound of tap, tap again.

Of course we followed covid protocals and it was an absolute lovely afternoon. So many people marvelled at the typewriters and wrote Christmas greetings.

Can you spot the Christmas carolers?

It was a perfect way to kick off the Christmas season. As the snow started to fall lightly, Christmas carols were being sung outside the tea house, the typewriters were busy, and of course, hot tea for all.

Let it snow

There are already plans underway for a second “Tea and Tap” event in the new year. Perhaps around Valentine’s Day, wouldn’t that be fun?!

In the meantime, I think Jennie has the right idea…let it snow.

What’s your favourite hot drink?

Letter to Santa kit

Holly Jolly Christmas. Holly Loves Paper that is. This adorable Letter to Santa kit is designed by Holly herself. How perfect is that!? In fact, I’m giving away a kit to one lucky person. Keep reading to find out how to enter.

wax seal – stickers – candy cane pen

Holly first started designing stationery when she was working full time as a social worker. She wanted some fun kits for her three boys to do, but couldn’t find exactly what she was looking for. So she started designing. We are all the better for it, I’d say.

Using this Letter to Santa kit to write to Santa is sure to get a response (winky face), I mean did you see that wax seal? Make sure to get the letter in the mail by Dec 10 this year and follow these tips on writing a letter to Santa to make sure all goes well.

Naughty or Nice?

What’s super awesome is that you can customize your letter with your child’s name when you order. As part of your kit is an “Official NICE LIST” certificate for your child.

Up to you if you choose to use it. Ha! Ha!

How to enter to win a Letter to Santa kit?

This Santa kit is simply adorable, complete with a packet of reindeer feed that you can sprinkle on the snow covered lawn on Christmas Eve so Rudolph can find his way.

Entry to win is easy. Just leave a comment sharing what was one thing you asked Santa for when you were a kid. That’s it. I will draw one name as the winner. Comments must be entered by November 21st.

**GIVEAWAY NOW CLOSED**

Thank you to all who left a comment. I loved learning what you asked Santa for. Congratulations to Emily!! Please watch your email for more details.

Virtual holiday events

Have sending Christmas cards crossed your mind yet? November is right around the corner and I always feel that the earlier you start the more enjoyable the experience is. Agree?

On November 12, I am hosting a virtual holiday event with Calgary Library. Might be just the thing you need to kick start your holiday mail.

Then on November 18th I will be partnering with the Regina Public Library to host a Christmas Letter Writing session. (Use the date to search for the event on link above). Hope you can attend, it would be lovely to see you.

I can’t wait to start thinking about my own Christmas cards. Once Halloween is over I’ll be in the mood.

Are you planning to send Christmas cards this year?

And I don’t mean the e-card or email version. Hard core over here. Too much?

Travelling letter writing and stationery van

When I think of the word ‘farmer’ I don’t think about letter writing. Do you?

Once I sit with it for a bit, I can see the connection. As the TheLetterFarmerCo travels around she is definitely planting seeds and introducing people to letter writing, and that with a little care and intention, something wonderful will sprout from mailing a letter.

Van travels in Colorado, USA

Tracy is the new proud owner of this travelling letter writing and stationery shop. It is absolutely the coolest thing ever! In fact, truth be told, I’m a wee bit jealous over here.

Because I can’t get to Colorado, USA, where she mostly tours about, I arranged a ‘meet-up’ of sorts on my latest virtual letter writing social. If you have some time and want a virtual tour – be preparted to drool – have a watch here.

Stationery shop inside

Imagine how many people will discover the charm of letter writing by seeing this van parked outside a cafe, in a park or maybe at a wedding. Honestly, it doesn’t get any better.

Wait. It actually does. To my surprise Tracy was wearing one of the “Happiest Writing Snail Mail” sweatshirts – if you want one, use code RWUC15 to get 15% off.

Who else wants the travelling letter writing and stationery van to visit you?

Fall Virtual LWS schedule

Virtual Letter Writing Socials are coming back. We had such fun last year that the concensus is we should do it again. I’m so excited!

Thanks to Sean @yyctypewriter (above) for being a regular attendee and for sharing in my love of typewriters and…bell bottom jeans. Ha!

People joined in from far and wide

Due to Covid I shifted my in-person LWS’s to a virtual format via Instagram LIVE. The response and interest was amazing.

I honestly didn’t know if a single soul would join me, but in fact so many did, and from all over the place. Other lovers of snail mail, like Ann @aedspix (above) would tune in each week and chat all things letter writing.

Moving to 2x monthly schedule

There are a few changes to the schedule for the Fall. We will start 30 minutes earlier, at 6:30pm MST/ 8:30pm EST, in hopes that more of our letter writing friends in the East will be able to join in.

Instead of weekly, we will move to a 2x per month schedule. Melanie @melaniejevans (above) and others gave such great suggestions on the new Fall format. Thank you all.

more special guests and giveaways

Special guests and giveaways will continue to be part of the Fall LWS schedule. Whoot! Whoot!

We had so many fantastic special guests last year it was incredible! Janine Vangool, Editor/Creater of Uppercase Magazine participated as did The Regional Assembly of Text and soulPaper to name just a few of the other special guests.

Mark your calendar for virtual LWS’s schedule

All virtual LWS’s will begin at 6:30pm MST/ 8:30pm EST and will run for approximately 40 minutes on Instagram LIVE.

September 8 + 22

October 6 + 20

November 10 + 24

December 1 + 15

Do you have any suggestions/recommendations for anyone you would like to see as a special guest?

Punk Post your Summer

Stay cool is right! Time for popsicles and to punk post your summer. Punkpost is an online service that allows you to choose a real deal (vs electronic) card and then….the best part…an artist handletters your card with your message AND mails it for you.

Pick your card and let Punkpost do the rest

I have gotten to know one of Punkpost’s talented artists on Instagram and I love Brenna’s work. She was also kind enough to allow me a little behind-the-scenes glimpse of how it all happens.

As you can see, I chose the ‘Stay Cool’ card from the summer card collection but the options are limitless from Birthday, Tooth Fairy, Miss You, Holiday etc.

Talented artist writes card for you

Once you’ve picked your card…good luck with that, there are so many to choose from…you can then specifiy some design details for your card. I wanted to let Brenna do her thing so I picked ‘simple style’ and beyond that gave her creative license to design it.

You provide Punkpost with the message you want the artist to write on your behalf, as well as the address of the person you want the card sent to.

5 things you should know

I mean look at that popsicle – a rocket I think it’s called? So cute. A couple of other things to know before you punk post your summer

  1. You can preschedule batches of cards. What a life saver this option would be. No more forgetting someone’s Birthday.
  2. If you love lettering and have an artistic flair you can apply to be one of Punkpost’s artists.
  3. You can choose the style of handwriting for your card.
  4. Cards can be mailed on your behalf anywhere, but if outside the USA there is an extra $1.50 charge.
  5. What does it cost? Per card it is $5-7 USD. This includes a 270 character message, the stamp, the envelope and the handwriting (on the card and on envelope).

Will you punk post your summer?

I need to know. What’s your favorite icecream treat?

retro summer stationery

Flip flops and popsicles. The summer vibe is strong over at PenPalingPaula with her latest summer stationery collection. Keep reading for your chance to WIN!

Postcards rule the summer snail mail scene I feel. Traditionally, postcards were sent to those back home and these retro postcard designs are perfect for that….even if we aren’t away on vacation or on the beach.

Washi tape, letter pads, postcards

It was the vintage fan featured on the washi tape and the letter pad that I fell hard for. Can’t tell you why exactly, but I just loved it.

I have featured Paula a couple of times here on the blog because I just love her story and of course all her stationery goodies.

Summer stickers

I remember riding my bike everywhere as a kid in the summers. I didn’t remember lifting off my feet going downhill until I saw these stickers, but its true!!

Paula has outdone herself with these designs, I mean the roller skates are so groovy. Even some circular ones that are handy for sealing envelopes.

Enter to win…

Paula was kind enough to gift me some of her retro summer stationery so I can give a loot bag away to one of you. Ya? Ya!

Ok, here is what you need to do. Leave a comment before July 17th and share what you love about summer. That’s it. CONTEST NOW CLOSED.

I’ll do a random draw and the winner will be notified by email.

What do you love about summer?

Snail Mail Clothing

Launched on June 24th the Snail Mail edition of The Happiest Collection made the best Birthday gift ever. Seriously.

I mean, the queen of snail mail – one of many – gets her own Snail Mail clothing line? BEST THING EVER!

Enter the GIVEAWAY

Head over to my Instagram for your chance to win a sweatshirt. Contest closes July 2nd so don’t be a snail about it. Hee,hee.

I can tell you, from personal experience both the t-shirt and sweatshirt are très comfy. Not just another average t-shirt in terms of quality and feel.

Want a discount?

In the meantime, you can scoop up your choice of Snail Mail top for 15% off. Just use the code: RWUC15 at checkout. Snag before July 9 and get FREE SHIPPING too.

Who else is happiest when writing Snail Mail?

LEGO typewriter July 1st

Any LEGO ® fans out there?

You better mark July 1, 2021 on the calendar as this is the day when LEGO® is releasing it’s typewriter set.

For $269.99 CDN…gulp…this typewriter that you can build out of lego bricks (recommended for 18+) has a moveable carriage and keys. The font is already on the keys – so no stickers required.

My favorite part? The colour! I love that the LEGO® designers chose the classic mint-green of the 1950’s typewriters.

But does it work?

I’ve got it on good authority that, no, it doesn’t actually work.

You can put a piece of paper through the roller, but the ribbon is made of fabric. More of a piece to display in your office. Plus the challenge/fun of building it.

For all you LEGO® VIP’s out there, did you take advantage of the early order date of June 16th?

What do you think? Cool idea?

Personally, although very cool, I’m more of a fan of the real thing. And also, I don’t have enough patience to put it together! Ha!

book lover postcards sent

Over 100 people signed up to participate in the latest BookLoverPostcardSwap. Countries represented included Canada, UK, Spain, USA, Italy, Ireland to name a few.

I thought you might like to see a sampling of some of the amazing postcards and book recommendations that got swapped.

Above, Kelly @thehappiestbookclub received this postcard, custom made just for her, by Stesha @ilikeshortchapters. Talk about two powerhouse booklovers!

Hand crafted postcards

This postcard was created by Mia @mia.massicotte and sent to Erin @wellnesswanderyeg. See what postcard Erin sent a couple of postcards below. I love that so many, including Mia, crafted their own postcards. Something about book spines that are so beautiful.

postcards with book recommendations

Christy @paperhideaway received and snapped a pic of this postcard (above) sent to her from Margaret @m_landis27. Makes you want to curl up in a corner and read. Any other Pride and Prejudice fans out there?

favorite books

Ronald Dahl’s books are classics indeed. This postcard about was sent by Kelly to Stesha. Do you have a favorite RD book? Mine would have to be James and the Giant Peach.

follow #bookloverpostcardswap

Thanks to all who participated and who used the hashtag #bookloverpostcardswap like Addie @addiejoannebird who sent this postcard to Trina @seaviewpownal. What a lovely pic by Trina with what looks like an ink well.

So aptly standing amongst all the books, is the postcard Erin send to Mia. Don’t you just love books and mail? Me too.

Share your own book recommendation in the comments so we can add to our summer reading list. A book that features snail mail in some way in the story.

How to participate National Letter Writing Month

April is National Letter Writing Month! You ready for it?

Second only to Christmas, this is my favourite time of the year. I invite you to join in the fun, give letter writing a try and see what all the fuss is about.

Off the top, you can join this event, above, hosted by Berks County Libraries in Pennsylvania, USA. It is free but registration is required.

Join a virtual letter writing social to mark the occasion

If your calendar is busy April 7, how about this event above, hosted by the Regina Public Library in Saskatchewan, Canada on April 6th? All you need to do, besides getting your pen and paper ready, is click on this link , search for the event, then scroll to the bottom and you will find the zoom link.

Visit the virtual Toronto Stationery Show – Spring Edition

Closing out how to participate in National Letter Writing Month is to check out the Toronto Stationery Show – Spring Edition. You won’t be disappointed with all the amazing paper and stationery talent you find there.

Did you know April was National Letter Writing Month?

Will you be writing some letters to make it official?

prepaid postage postcards from Canada Post

I just received my free, prepaid postage postcard yesterday! I’ve been so excited about this snail mail campaign by Canada Post.

Have you received yours yet?

Keep reading for some insider tips on these postcards.

postcards are arriving daily across Canada

The postcards are gradually finding their way into the mailboxes of all Canadians. If you haven’t received one yet, don’t worry it’s on its way.

From what I’ve been observing they seem to be arriving from East to West across the country.

what to write on your postcard

I am loving all the designs and messages on the postcard. I received this one above.

If you aren’t quite sure what to write or who to send it to, postcards are the best place to start. The messages on each design help give us an idea of what to write, but you could also include a short poem or quote.

Your postcard could be the perfect spot for an easy recipe you can’t wait to make and eat with that friend you haven’t seen in forever. But I feel like ‘miss you lots, can’t wait to give you a hug’ would be maybe the best message you could send.

Some tips to make sure you get your postcard

  1. the postcards look a little like junk mail so be careful not to throw it out in error.
  2. instead of a traditional looking postcard, it comes as more of a brochure/flyer type piece of mail. you have to fold it out and use the perforated edge to take off the postcard. It can be confusing.
  3. if you live in an apartment building or condo complex, go check the recycle bin near the mailboxes because that is where they are ending up when people think they are just another piece of junk mail. you will score big!

Is your national postal service doing anything similar during Covid?

Meet my new crush

“Be My Valentine” position has been filled. Meet my new crush, Sugarbakers Cookies Co. They are just my type and their cookies are to swoon over.

snail mail cookies

You would think I custom ordered these cookies, but Michelle and her mom (both owners of this Calgary cookie company) were way ahead of me. I have a sneaking suspicion that someone in their kitchen has a thing for snail mail.

typewriter cookie in hot demand

You should definitely give them a follow on Instagram because you have never seen cookies like they make. Their Valentine cookies SOLD OUT in mere minutes – trust me I know – I had moments of panic, disappointment and then….a happy dance broke out in my house by yours truly.

Love is all around

Ok, must go….things to do and cookies to eat. I wish you a heart-filled Valentines. Love is all around, in different forms, so don’t miss it.

Did anyone send a special Valentine’s Postmark this year?

p.s. I’m crossing my fingers for cookie cutters for the typewriter and mailbox.

send a note of thanks

Two questions for you.

A) When was the last time you received a note of thanks?

B) Have you recently sent anyone a note of thanks?

These cards showed up in my mailbox over the holidays and they couldn’t have come at a better time for me personally.

More than just a polite gesture

Sending a note of thanks makes a difference. This practise of gratitude is always a good thing, some would say it’s basic etiquette, but I think it can be more. You must read this heart moving story I posted forever ago to see why it is so much more.

As for me, I was seriously wondering whether I should continue the virtual letter writing socials into 2021.

It was only after I received these notes of thanks that I knew beyond a doubt I had to continue. Thank you Erin and Norma for making this clear to me.

You are invited to join us. Find us writing letters each Wednesday evening 7pm MST/9pm EST on Instagram LIVE.

Who needs thanking in your life? Send a note of thanks and make a difference; maybe more than you will ever know.

covid gifts

The world has been turned upside down in 2020 and our Christmas will be very different this year.

Extended families will not be together and there are no holiday parties. We can’t attend church in person to celebrate Christmas and there will be no counting down New Year’s Eve with friends. But guess what?

The magic of Christmas trumps the pandemic and there are, what I’m calling ‘Covid Gifts’, everywhere if you look hard enough. Here are a few of mine:

Look hard, you will find some Covid gifts

  • My immediate family is home together thanks to Covid. With four adults and one teenager busy working or studying things aren’t always tinsel and garland but we are together and that’s what matters.
  • Time is a Covid gift. Time to do things (or not) like make perogies for the first time or write more letters.
  • Slowing down. Albeit a ‘forced’ slow down this has been good for me.
  • Creativity. We’ve had to do things differently. I’m pretty sure the word of 2020 should be ‘pivot.’ Never would I have imagined hosting online virtual letter writing socials.
  • The little things. Like rounding the corner in a park to find someone has decorated the trees with ornaments.

Thank you for being here with me this year. As this will be my last post for 2020, I want to wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas and may you discover the gifts of Covid.

Have you found any Covid gifts yet? Please share as it will encourage us all.

letters to santa in 2020

What would you write to Santy Claus this year? Or maybe you would prefer to chat with the Mrs? It’s not too late.

Here is everything you need to know about writing to Santa in 2020.

Mail your letter by Dec 12

Get your letter in the mail by December 12, 2020 if you want to hear back from the jolly dude in red.

It was a brief letter I sent off to Santa Claus, but I can tell you the topic of face masks and Covid did come up. I wonder how he will respond?

Has Santa ever written you back?

2020 Christmas Mailing deadlines

The short answer? Mail it now.

Normally Canada Post has deadlines for sending holiday mail internationally or to the USA, and if mailed by these dates Canada Post guarantees delivery before Christmas.

Not this year.

Stamps by Nova Scotia artist Maude Lewis

That being said, the absolutely amazing thing for your Christmas mail this year are these Canada Post holiday stamps with art work by Maud Lewis.

I just adore these stamps. After I watched the film “Maudie” starring Ethan Hawke and Sally Hawkins I became obsessed with Maud Lewis and her story. Have you watched it?

Avoid the obligatory Christmas card syndrome

I’ve always been so late on sending my Christmas correspondence overseas but I’m pleased to tell you that I sent them this week.

Sometimes sending cards can turn into more of a chore than a joy-filled activity. Check out this post I wrote awhile back for ideas on how to avoid the obligatory Christmas card syndrome.

Covid is reason enough to send Christmas cards

If ever there was a year to send Christmas cards this is it. We all need some cheer and something to look forward to. I know nothing better than the anticipation I feel when I walk to the mail box during the month of December.

Who else is with me?

p.s. You can order the Maud Lewis Christmas stamps here.

bring on 2021

Who’s ready for 2021? I bet most of us are. I have always looked forward to cracking open a brand new planner and for several years now I have been using the planner by Wrinkle and Crease.

This year there are three shades to choose from – stone grey (pictured above), oatmeal and black. Can you guess which one I’m picking for 2021?

Tip: leave a comment with your guess and you may win a little somthing. CONTEST CLOSED.

You can also get your initials or name customized on your planner with gold foil embossing.

well, that was a year!

I may be biased but this card, ‘well that was a year!’ , is absolutely the best ‘covid’ related card I’ve seen to date. I’m not alone on that, as this design has been the most requested card as of late. Bring on 2021!

*Full disclosure* I work part-time with Kayley, the creative force behind Wrinkle and Crease so I’ve got the inside scoop for you. Keep reading for a sneak peek of some brand new paper goodies.

“I can’t wait to hug you again”

This card pulls on all my heart strings. To be honest I am not a hugger by nature but, I tell ya, Covid is working to changed this.

I want so much to be able to see my extended family and give them a hug. Next best thing will be to send this card I think.

Brand new gift wrap and ribbons

Hot off the press for us to wrap up 2020 is beautiful new gift wrap and ribbon and gift tags. The ‘No peeking” ribbon is so adorable and what about that cursive script in gold foil? I mean come on… so beautiful.

Keep an eye on the Wrinkle and Crease website for when these products will be launched in the next few days.

Bring on 2021 with hope and optimism and most of all hugs!

Did you guess what shade of planner I’m choosing? Hint: I had the oatmeal planner last year and it is the most popular colour for 2021, so if you are wanting that design don’t delay in ordering

Leave a comment with your guess of what shade I chose for my 2021 planner, and I will pick one lucky person and send you a spool of this brand new ribbon – your choice of design.

Photo credits: carlingstiksma photography.

Toronto Stationery Show

It’s happening! The Toronto Stationery Show will go on. Albeit virtually, this years event is definitely a must-do for stationery addicts everywhere.

All the fun begins October 18th and runs until November 7. Follow along on TSS’s Facebook Event Page or on any of their social channels* for exclusive show specials.

Photo: Love Lettering

There are SO many amazing vendors! As soon as I saw this envelope (above) by LoveLettering I knew I would be visiting this shop online.

Photo: Toronto’s First Post Office

Toronto’s First Post Office is a sponsor of the Toronto Stationery Show this year. It is one of my favorite spots in TO . Read here about my in-person visit a couple of years ago.

Photo: Wask

Wask is a product designer that creates ‘strange objects for strange people.’ So much love for this! I mean, who doesn’t want to be strange when you can have one of these hug-me binder clips, right?

Photo: ohmyinspired

Ok, doesn’t this print above by ohmyinspired just about sum up our Covid lives perfectly!? I can’t wait to visit Karen’s shop during the Toronto Stationery Show to see all the other lovely cards and prints she creates.

Secretly I’m thrilled that the Toronto Stationery Show is online this year, only because selfishly I wouldn’t have been able to attend in person.

How about you? Will you be attending the Toronto Stationery Show virtually?

* you can also follow along on Instagram, Twitter

Fall stationery

Fall themed stationery has never looked so fine. Found at Scriptoria Regalia you will be falling hard for this stationery collection.

walnut pattern

Created with utmost attention to design and with high quality Italian paper this Walnuts Letter Writing Set has all the Fall vibes. And that envelope liner….I’m swooning over here!

Candycorn sweet on stationery

Dario is the talented force behind this Fall stationery line. He and I met on one of my Virtual Letter Writing Socials. He tunes in from San Franciso and shares my love of letter writing.

Halloween perfect

To be honest I’ve never been a candy corn fan, sweddish berries are more my candy, but on stationery they are adorable. So perfect for Halloween!

Frame worthy

I feel like this Dahlia Letter Writing Set could be enlarged and either framed or used as wrapping paper or book covers. It is just so beautiful!

You can see other stationery designs by following Scriptoria Regalia on Instagram and you can also find Dario over at DudesWhoWrite.

I can’t wait to receive the walnut design letter set that I’ve ordered. Paired with a handful of sweedish berries, it will be the perfect letter writing afternoon.

What is your favorite Halloween candy?

Oct 1 World Postcard Day

Simply put, postcards are the best. The small writing space invites rather than intimidates, and it does double duty by sending a favorite photo or memory AND a message. A win, win, I’d say.

October 1st is World Postcard Day, the perfect opportunity to send a postcard. Keep reading for ideas on who you can send a postcard to and what you can use as a postcard.

What can you use as a postcard?

Look at that worn and ripped postage stamp! It is incredible.

I’ve been saving these vintage postcards from France ever since someone (you know who you are) so thoughtfully picked them up for me while in Paris. Aren’t they just beautiful?

Vintage photos make great postcards. As do recycled cereal boxes, old book covers, recipe cards, comic book covers glued on cardboard, and of course postcards themselves.

Who can you send a postcard to?

Everyone loves receiving snail mail, that is a given truth.

I’m convinced that during Covid the charm of finding something in the mailbox can do amazing things. Receiving mail reminds us we are not alone, spreads joy and delight, and brings a smile to our face as we read a snippet of news from someone we care about.

With that in mind here are a few people that we can send postcards to

  • your local health care hero
  • the person behind the mask at the grocery story
  • parents, family, that you haven’t been able to see for the last six months
  • pen pals
  • besties
  • your kids – no matter their age. For those at home leave a poscard outside their bedroom door or in their lunch box.

Who will you send a postcard to on October 1st, World Postcard Day?

Thom + Tom = typewriter pals

Do you remember the movie “Cast Away?” You know, with Tom Hanks stranded on an island with a volleyball named Wilson as his only friend?

Well imagine if instead of a volley ball it had been a typewriter that survived the plane crash along with Tom Hank’s character.

A whole new plot line would have materialized…the lone survivor on the island writing SOS notes on tree bark, being comforted by the zzzzzzip, tap, tap of his friend Rem.

Saskatoon typewriter man

These changes to the script wouldn’t have been hard for Mr. Hanks to immerse himself in, as in real life he is a bit of a typewriter aficionado. He was featured in the recent film “California Typewriter.”

Anyway, the story took a local twist recently when Saskatoon typewriter repair wizard, Thom Cholowski received a typewritten letter from Tom Hanks.

Look at that green ink! And there are typing errors and yet he typed on. Love this so much.

Hollywood typewriter man

Having recently chatted with Thom Cholowski it is very clear that in reaching out to Mr. Hanks it was never with the expectation that he would hear back or receive so much media attention and typewriter fame. In fact Thom was a little bit, dare I say, embarrassed about all the fuss.

Have a listen as CBC radio interviews Thom about how he came to receive a letter from Mr. Hanks.

The Thom and Tom story had a new chapter added as recently as this week. Thom received a typewriter from Tom. Yes, a typewriter from Mr.Hank’s private collection!

Isn’t this Remington noiseless machine beautiful! I will have to ask Thom next time I speak with him if it is in as perfect working order as it appears.

Special thanks to Thom who allowed me to share his story and use his photos. Stay tuned for a very cool event in October that Thom and I will be hosting online.

Do you have a typewriter? Tell me all about it.

letters

Letters mingle souls. Indeed, poet John Donne captured the charm of snail mail perfectly. And so too has my friend Micaela with her gorgeous mailslot themed stationery.

vintage stamp sets

These postcards are based on a vintage French mailslot design. You can purchase individually or in a set of five. Plus, a percentage of profits from all Micaela’s stationery go towards Color of Change.

Micaela also offers vintage stamp sets as well as a mailslot letter writing set.

to get a letter send a letter

Micaela is a snail mail kindred spirit. Although we’ve yet to meet in person (one can hope) she shares my obsession with all things letter writing including my love of letterpress.

When living in San Francisco Micaela ran the SF Correspondence Society and made this beautiful correspondence letterpress print above.

september 13 virtual letter writing social

And, it just keeps getting better. Micaela and friends at Lonestarletterwriters are teaming up to host a virtual letter writing social next weekend!

You do need to sign up to attend so head on over to @via.micaela on instagram and follow the link in her bio to register.

Have you sent a letter lately?

6ft apart. 6 ft closer.

A 6 ft piece of paper is longer than I thought. It is the distance we now keep between each other in the name of social distancing. It can feel far, can’t it? No standing close, no handshakes, and certainly no hugs.

This is why the concept of using a 6 ft piece of paper as art to bridge this distance caught my attention.

art as the covid experience

6ftCloserYYC is a grass roots project that invites people to express any of the emotions, thoughts and experiences we may have had during this pandemic.

Shown here is my humble submission, and by humble, I mean me channeling my best Grade 5 artwork. Nevertheless, I had fun and wrote Covid a 6 ft letter.

W.R.Strong

The numbers I chose to use on the envelope all have meaning, as do the words. For example, the numbers in the address to Covid represent the number of Covid cases in Calgary the day I created this envelope.

This project reminded me of hope and how we will not be beaten by this virus. We will wear the masks, we will socially distance and we will hand sanitize because we want to beat Covid. We are strong in our dedication. We are hopeful.

No longer apart.

Many of the submissions are currently being displayed at the beautiful Central Library here in Calgary and if you follow 6ftCloserYYC on instagram you can see some of the 6ft artwork.

I just love how this project has taken the negativity of always having to be socially distanced and has used art to actually bring us together. Just beautiful.

What would you say in a letter to Covid?

virtual Letter Writing Socials

Letter writing is most often a solitary experience. Pen, paper, a cup of tea perhaps, and time to get lost in one’s own thoughts as the conversation between writer and recipient unfolds on paper.

However, the advent of virtual Letter Writing Socials has illustrated the importance of community, whether we write letters or not.

If you haven’t already joined my friends over at the Toronto Letter Writers Society virtual LWS there is one this weekend, plus 1x per month going forward. Just one more opportunity for community.

we crave community

I’ve come to realize, that the concept of a virtual LWS

It is more than just writing snail mail virtually. Some people tune in just to listen while out walking their dog or to simply join in the conversation, maybe not writing a letter at all.

It is all about the conversation, the chatter about washi tape and stationery. The swapping of info of where to get vintage stamps, or what our favorite summer drink is or to hear the sounds of the typewriter, all of this put together is the natural building of a community.

Where are you finding community these days?

what was in my mailbox this week. No.13.

P.S. Write Soon. One of the best signature lines ever. This envelope with all the stamps was in my mailbox recently. Instead of ripping it open on my walk home, I waited until I had a glass of ice tea, and time to sit and read it. Letters are to be savored, no?!

As entry No.13 in an ongoing series of what snail mail arrives in my mailbox, this adhesive stamp above sure does chronicle some of the concerns with sending mail during Covid times.

You too can source these perforated stamps or custom design your own over at The Perforated Post shop.

Thank you to Hanna, in Sweden, who swapped postcards with me in the BookLoverPostcardSwap a few months back. I love the illustration and the fact that it is signed by the illustrator herself is so cool!

Notice that Hanna included date and weather details from the day she wrote the postcard. Anyone else do this too? So fun. Brings me a little closer to Sweden when I can imagine the weather on that exact day.

I am sucker for a wax seal. And my name never looked so fine than on this envelope penned by the fine folks at soulPaper stationery shop. This arrived in my mailbox with some of the beautiful stationery goods I ordered.

Follow rae.and.dot.studio on instagram to see this very clever Covid themed postcard and others like it. Thanks to Shelley who sent this to me even though we literally live down the street and around the corner from each other.

Indeed, social distancing does make the heart grow fonder.

typewriter class

Just follow the chorus of the tap, tap, zzzzzzzip, ding and you could easily find the typing class at your local highschool.

Admittedly this ages those of us who actually participated in an ‘Introduction to Typing’ class back in the day, but honestly, I’m pretty jazzed that I can actually type.

Typewriter lending library

In case you’ve missed it, typewriters are having a bit of a moment right now. A typewriter class would be well attended these days as so many are on the hunt for a typewriter and want to know how to use them.

I love the idea of having a typewriter lending library like Santa Barbara Public Typewriters runs. Can’t imagine the upkeep of the machines that would be required, but the concept is awesome.

Parts of the typewriter

Aren’t these pages from a vintage typing course manual amazing?!

All the components of the typewriter defined is very handy–the ribbon spool crank was a new term for me.

Learn to type online

Missed out on learning to type? You don’t need a typewriter to learn to type on your keyboard from home. Not a bad way to spend some time during Covid.

Did you take a typing class in school? Do you wish you did?

Dear loneliness…

Writing letters bring friends and family closer. They help alleviate loneliness and certainly spread joy.

The Dear Loneliness project started by Jessica and fellow students at Harvard University, is about loneliness in general but also specifically during Covid.

have you been lonely?

Write a letter about loneliness as a topic; perhaps a personal experience of when you have been lonely or how you feel loneliness might be magnified during this time of a global pandemic.

Make sure to review some submission guidelines before you submit your letter.

It would be a beautiful site to see this art installation comprised of all these letters. It would remind us that we are not alone in our fight against loneliness.

What do you do to alleviate loneliness?

Listen in as Jessica and I chat all about how this project got started and what it means.

seniors looking for penpals

These seniors have blown up the internet this week. Love when this kinda idea resonates with so many people. Covid is especially difficult for seniors in homes who are not able to see family or friends who live outside the home.

Victorian Senior Care, an organization in the USA that manages several assisted care facilities came up with this brilliant idea. Maybe you want to write one of these lovely people?

I bet having worked as a mail clerk Cecilia would love, love some snail mail headed her way. Use this address to write her:

Cecilia
160 Warren C. Coleman Boulevard
Concord, NC 28027

Now, Mr. Charles and I share a special love for the song Amazing Grace. I’ll leave it to him to sing it though. You all should thank me for that!

Send mail to Mr.Charles here:

826 E. Blvd., Hwy 17 N.
Williamston, NC 27892

Where are all you male sports fan at? Seems Mr.Croom wants to hear from you. Send the latest stats on your favorite team to Mr.Croom here:

826 E. Blvd., Hwy 17 N.
Williamston, NC 27892

There are so many seniors looking for penpals so please visit here to find others you might share common interests with or like to write.

Please send mail to this lovely lady above to:

(Pen Pal Name Here)
160 Warren C. Coleman Boulevard
Concord, NC 28027

Do you have any stationery with dancers on it or perhaps your kids could draw a ballerina? I am sure Anne would love it.

Send a letter to Anna here:

(Pen Pal Name Here)
550 Bailey Rd.
Lumberton, NC 28359

For any kids out there looking for something to do these summer months a long term care facility in Ontario, Canada is inviting kids (and adults as well) to write to their guests as penpals. More info here.

Do you have a penpal?

soulPAPER

I had a tour of soulPAPER shop last week. The hardwood floors, the racks of beautiful paper and shelves with all sorts of stationery goodness left me swooning. And this was a virtual visit, imagine if I had actually been there in person!

Susan, owner of this delightful space, was the special guest on my weekly Virtual Letter Writing Social and in case you missed it, I wanted to showcase it here for you.

virtual tour like none other

Susan’s camera showed us around the shop. Everywhere she turned I saw things I liked. In fact, I asked her to go back to some spots more than once for a close up look at the stationery she carries. She was most gracious and let me ‘browse’ to my hearts content.

paper lovers dream

And this paper! Can you spot the sheet with the typewriters? I think I would use this to make envelopes or as Susan suggested, use these beautiful papers as a book cover or even frame it.

shop online or call directly for VIP service

I can’t tell you how long I’ve been looking for another air mail stationery pad of paper!! So excited to know soulPAPER has it.

soulPAPER is located in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada, and is open by appointment only but I recommend that you either call directly 306.665.7685 or shop online. Susan is happy to give you a virtual tour as well and allow you to see all she has before you purchase.

watch the virtual letter writing socials

One day I hope to visit soulPAPER in person, post COVID. In the meantime I live vicariously through their Instagram page.

See anything you like?

Find all the Virtual Letter Writing Socials here or better yet, join us on any Wednesday evening at 7pm MST on Instagram live.

June 23 Typewriter Day

It only makes sense that National Typewriter Day is one day before my Birthday 😛 How can we not celebrate?!

After you’ve danced a bit to The Boston Typewriter Orchestra-quarantine version, head on over to my Instagram page for a fun contest (will be posted Monday, June 22nd).

You are invited! Birthday Virtual Letter Writing Social

And on June 24th, I invite you to join me for a wee Birthday celebration on Instagram Live at 7pm MST in the form of a very special Virtual Letter Writing Social. There will be a special guest and another giveaway!

How do you celebrate your Birthday? Any typewriters involved? 😉

The Seasonal Pages stickers

Helping people thrive and discover their creative side was the inspiration behind the opening of sweet paper shop, The Seasonal Pages, in early 2020.

A lover of stationery (kindred spirit over here) and stickers for some time, Isaly decided to make some of her own.

The first product I discovered by Seasonal Pages was this Plant Vibes Vinyl Sticker (pictured above). I completely love it. Maybe if I stick it somewhere visible in my house it will prevent me from killing all the plants?!

canvas tote envy

Before we talk about this adorable canvas tote, just let the details of this beautiful office space sink in. I want one….the tote and the office!

And guess what? Isaly has put together some freebies for you. Check out my fav, the Printable Mail Stamp Sticker set.

Printable sticker heaven

In addition to vinyl stickers, Isaly has created SO MANY printable stickers. You sticker lovers are going to be in heaven!

I think you might like this one pictured above, Vol 1 in a series of vintage .

Get 10% off

And don’t forget to pursue the selection of washi tape samples. I love this idea of trying out a few different designs at one time.

Use this link to shop and get 10% off your first order from Seasonal Pages.

Do love to look at plants or love to grow them?

Black Lives Honored

My heart is heavy. What has been happening to black people for far too long has been horrifically magnified this week.

As a white woman I am acutely aware that I can’t speak to the systematic racism and the subsequent ramifications; I haven’t walked in those shoes. What I can do though is listen, learn and take action.

I am embarrased to say I did not know many of these black Canadians honored with a postage stamp. Kay Livingstone, pictured above, launched the Congress of Black Women of Canada in 1975. It is now a nationwide organization dedicated to the welfare of black Women and their families. She is also credited with coining the term “visible minority.”

Baseball Hall of famer

Fergie Jenkins, from Chatham Ontario, was a Hall of Fame Pitcher with the MLB. He was the first Canadian to win a Cy Young award and to be inducted in the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, NY.

Any baseball fans out there that know what year and team he played for when he won the Cy Young award?

Lincoln Alexander

I shook the hand of Lincoln Alexander when I graduated from University of Guelph where he was the longest serving chancellor in the history of the school. Even in those split seconds of our meeting he made an impact.

And not just with me. He was a leader in the fight for racial equality, a champion of justice, education, heritage and held some of the highest political postions in Canada.

When he passed away in 2012 I remember being so sad and speaking about this great man with my kids.

Her case intiated civil rights movement in Canada

Viola Desmond was a Canadian business woman who started her own hair and skin-care company for black women. After not being allowed to train as a beautician in Halifax because of her African heritage she went to Madam C.J. Walker’s beauty school (I highly recommend watching Self Made which chronicles the story of Madam C.J. Walker) in Atlanta.

Ms. Desmond challenged racial segregation in 1940s in Nova Scotia after being arrested and charged for sitting in the “whites only” section of a movie theatre. She fought the charge in court and her case contributed greatly to the rise of the civil rights movement in Canada.

First person of African descent to arrive in Canada

Believed to be the first person of African descent to arrive in Canada (in 1608) whose name survived history, Mathieu Da Costa, arrived a free man who earned his living as an interpreter for Europeans who were trading with Indigenous people in the New World.

a politician with passion

Rosemary Brown was the first black woman to be elected to public office in Canada. It was in 1972. Not that long ago. Let that sink in.

She was also the first woman to run for leadership of a Canadian federal party when she ran for leadership of the federal New Domocratic party. After political life she was a professor and then served as Chief Commissioner of the Ontario Human Rights Commission.

Thank you to Canada Post for not only these photos but for honoring Black Lives and allowing their legacy to live on through a postage stamp.

How are you processing all that has happened this week?

Museums invite you to write a letter

Photo cred: Glenbow Museum Instagram (as well as post cover photo).

Have you written a letter during these Covid days? If you have, I bet that the topic of the pandemic has come up. Maybe you have shared how you are baking bread from scratch these days or how Covid has impacted your life in other ways.

Our letters have become the quarantine diaries and years from now they will serve as a historical window into this unique time in the world.

To this end museums are inviting you to write a letter for their archive collection. The Glenbow Museum is inviting Albertans to write a letter about their experience during this pandemic

Photo cred: Tyree Boyd-Pates, Museum Curator

Not only are written letters and pictures being collected but actual items as well. The NYT interviewed a museum curator at the Autry Museum about this project.

The Canmore Museum is also inviting people to create, take photographs, and keep journals that can be kept as a way of documenting this time in history.

Let’s add our voice to the Covid correspondence.

Leave a comment here on the blog about how you are coping during Covid. What you are doing to make sense of our new reality?

Are you writing letters or sewing face masks? Share in a comment where you have been spending quarantine or anything related to your own personal Covid experience.

time for a RECESS

Covid life wears thin if we don’t take a break from it all.

I don’t know about you, but I need to take a conscious break from all the media and focus on something that is positive, beautiful and creative. This is when I turn to one of my favorite stationery shops, RECESS, based in Calgary.

My daughter tells me these Mildliner highlighters (above) are all the rage with the cool kids in University. She was actually shocked that I had some….that’s right, I just became cool!

letter writing supplies

You know me, and anything letter writing related calls my name. I picked up a few of these air mail envelopes last time I was physically in the store.

Recess has done an incredible job of shifting all of its unique inventory online and as I was scrolling I saw this adorable pen pal kit (not shown here). Perfect for taking a break from all things Covid.

Get outside with some paints

Recess has everything to keep our minds active and our creativity soaring.

Isn’t this Field Sketch Box of beautiful paints palettes amazing?! If you felt so inclined you could seek out some fresh air and go plein air painting.

Pens in the colours of the rainbow

I love theses gel pens! So many colours to choose from. I picked the green, purple and pink. What would you pick?

Colouring posters!

This was a new discovery for me on the Recess website – giant colouring posters. If my kids were younger this would definitely be a sanity saver in the house during quarantine time.

How are you taking a break from thinking about Covid every waking minute?

p.s. thank you to Recess for allowing me to use their photos.

farewell California Typewriter

Have you watched the 2016 documentary California Typewriter? It features Tom Hanks and John Mayer.

Shockingly I have not. Instead… I went to the actual store.

A visit to the actual store

This film has eluded me for some time. I missed the Canadian screenings for a variety of reasons and it’s not on Netflix.*

I will rectify this glaring gap in my typewriter obsession but in the meantime, when I found myself in California earlier this year, I made it my mission to get myself to Berkley to visit this store.

Private tour

I got there in the nick of time. The shop was in the process of closing the doors when I arrived in early March.

In fact, Carmen Permillion, one of the daughters of owner Herbert Permillion, was so kind to make arrangments with me to open the shop doors just for me. It was so cool!

typewriters and fans say farewell

Some machines were ready to say farewell to California Typewriter as they waited for their owners to pick them up after being serviced and repaired.

I was secretly hoping this Hermes 3000 wouldn’t be claimed and I could causually take it home with me. Ha!

Another typewriter shop in Berkeley

I wish I had seen this shop in it’s heyday. This is the store that served as the inspiration for the film when the director first had his typewriter serviced here.

BUT all you typewriter aficionados don’t have to worry, there is another typewriter shop in Berkeley aptly named Berkeley Typewriter. Did I visit it too? You bet I did.

In fact, I had the pleasure of meeting Ken, the typewriter technician who used to work at the California Typewriter shop. He’s a bit famous now –to those in the know, so this was great fun for me.

Have you watched California Typewriter?

*Although not on Netflix you can rent the film on Amazon.com, YouTube or Google Play. After a bit of digging I also found it for FREE on Shaw on Demand. You know what I’ll be doing this weekend!

Cabin Fever?

Do you have cabin fever? I think we all do.

My friends at The Regional Assembly of Text have picked up on this global feeling and have put together this most clever package of letter writing supplies to help us ward off cabin fever.

Stay Stationary Send Stationery

Brandy, one of the co-founders of this iconic Canadian stationery shop, was my special guest this past week on my virtual letter writing social. We joked about how many people get the spelling of stationery (all things paper related) mixed up with stationary (stay still, not moving).

Do you think this kit will clear up the spelling errors?

Cabin Fever

How are you coping with cabin fever? This kit is sure to provide you with things to do while you await the time for a true outdoor adventure.

She shared that the Application for Friendship during these Hard Times (included in both kits featured here and also available on its own) is especially popular right now. No kidding!

Kit for mom

Not sure what to get Mom for Mother’s Day? Brandy will be happy to mail the Mother’s Day Kit (not shown here) directly to your mom for you, she will even fill out a card on your behalf.

Which kit do you like best?

p.s I hope someone who calls me mom is reading this. Nudge, nudge. Wink, wink.

Washi Tape Sale

World Stationery Day is coming up on April 29th. Isn’t it great that there is a day set aside to celebrate stationery? Like I need an excuse.

I want to celebrate with you by sharing the debut line of washi tape by my friend Paula AND a 25% off discount code to use this weekend. Keep on reading for the code and to see her beautiful washi tape designs.

Washi Tape anyone?

I am a die hard washie tape lover and as soon I as heard Paula was adding some to her Etsy Shop, I could hardly wait to see what washi tape patterns she designed.

Redeem discount code April 25/26

I’ve just placed my order using the code: THANKYOU25K to receive 25% off. This code is good until end of April 26, 2020.

In addition to the washi tape sale, you will also find a huge selection of printables and postcards.

Good things are worth waiting for

Paula is based in Ireland, and due to COVID-19, the postal system there is not shipping internationally (more details on her Etsy shop).

But I can wait. I want to support her and her creative entrepreurial spirit.

What washi tape design do you like?

You can follow Paula on Instagram @penpaling_paula

I hope you will mark World Stationery Day a wee bit early and take advantage of this washi tape sale celebrating Paula reaching 25K followers on her Instagram account.

Any guesses as to what I ordered?

Which washi tape designs do you like best?

p.s. thank you to Paula for the use of her photos for this blog post.

what was in my mailbox this week. No. 12

“A person with defiant joy refuses to be squelched by negative voices or intimidated by overwhelming odds.”

A letter that arrived recently had a quote in it that I’ve been thinking on ever since. It is profoundly perfect for our times.

I also love it when people use my letter press stationery to write to me. Smile.

Month of Letters

This typewriter washi tape was met with delight when I picked this letter up from the post box. Sent from Irene as one of many she wrote in February as part of the Month Of Letters Challenge. But of course you could do this any month you want.

You will notice that I’ve written an April date on the front of the envelope. This helps me keep track of what mail I’ve responded to.

What do you do to keep your incoming/outgoing mail organized?

Postcards never disappoint

It has been so very long since I posted an installment in this series of What’s in my mailbox this week that I almost forgot about it. In case you have too, here is a peek at some past entries.

Erin, from Edmonton, Alberta, sent me this postcard just last week. I love postcards! We have been swapping mail via the virtual letter writing socials.

Responding to letters should be full of joy not obligation

This Van Gogh stationery is frame worthy! Sent by my friend Jessica, she and I have been exchanging letters for over two years. Do check out The Guernsey Letter Writers Society of which Jessica is the founder. She is most gracious when my response time resembles that of an overweight turtle.

But I firmly believe the joy of sending mail is in knowing what it means to the one receiving it, the conversation, the stationery, the thoughtfulness of the process, the cup of tea. When it becomes an obligation, dare I say, we should set the pen down and take a break.

What has shown up in your mailbox lately?

p.s. the letter on the cover of this post, with the postage stamps from Spain, is from Alice. Our letters have sometimes gone mysteriously missing, but we don’t give up and we send another. Thank you Alice.

is mail still being delivered?

Are you wondering if you can still send mail or how to get postage stamps?

Or maybe you are curious about whether the Covid-19 virus can be transmitted through the mail?

Perhaps you want to know if all countries are still accepting international mail?

Thank you to all the postal workers!

Some of these questions came up last week in the virutal letter writing social. Let’s find out the answers:

  1. Yes, you can still send mail. A big shout out and thanks to all the postal workers everywhere who are out and delivering the mail. Thank you! What does seem to be apparent is that with the increase in online shopping deliveries may be slower than usual.
  2. Stamps can be purchased online via Canada Post or through your respective Postal System.

Mail service has been suspended to certain countries

3. According to the World Health Organization, ‘because of poor survivability of coronaviruses on surfaces, there is a low risk of spread from products or packaging shipped over a period of days or weeks. Currently, there is no evidence of COVID-19 being transmitted by imported goods or packages.’

4. Postal service to some countries has been suspended, consult here for a full list of which countries are impacted.

Are you still sending mail?

notes from quarantine

Food banks are feeling the pressure in these times. My friends at Feast Letterpress have swooped in with a fabulous idea.

Introducing Notes From Quarantine. This is a letter writing set with six sheets of paper, three envelopes AND three Canadian permanent stamps. All proceeds from sales will go to the Calgary Food Bank.

Letters chronicle the current times

I read a very interesting article called The Quarantine Diaries in the NY Times. It talks about how all that is written in journals right now, and for that matter, hand written letters, will chronicle the historical times we find ourselves living in.

Why not use these Notes From Quarantine for added historical significance?

Feast Letterpress used hand set metal type printed with fluorescent red ink on 100% cotton paper to create this letter writing set. I am a huge fan of this local Letterpress studio, and they were who I called to help me to create my very own stationery line.

Anyone writing more letters than usual?

virtural letter writing social

photo courtesy of @bollisa on instagram

I would never have imagined writing letters virtually via Instagram live video, but that is exactly what 33 of us did last week.

Our current reality of self-isolation has made us think differently, to be creative in how we find community when we are physically removed from one another.

photo courtesy of @santoshapoetry on instagram

community in letter writing virtually

I was honestly overwhelmed by the interest in ‘getting together’ virtually to write letters. We had people from the USA, Canada and Spain on the virtual letter writing social. It was incredible!

Some people had their own typewriters out, others used paper and pen. It didn’t matter, we all wanted to write letters and meet other letter writing folk.

photo courtesy of @wellnesswandereryeg on instagram

notes of encouragment to health care workers, seniors

I shared ideas of writing prompts and who we could write to. We focused on three groups of people; our neighbors, elderly in senior centres and healthcare workers.

Look up the address of the senior centre in your area and send a letter too. One participant made the thoughtful suggestion to include some reading material along with your letter as many are restricted to their individual rooms as no activities are happening for the residents.

photo courtesy of @santoshapoetry on instagram

next virtual letter writing social is April 1st

Please join us for the next virtual letter writing social. We will meet again on April 1st (the beginning of National Letter Writing Month) 7pm MST for 30 minutes.

All you need to do is follow @ritewhileucan on Instagram and be online at 7pm when you will be notified of a ‘live video.’ When you see me and hear my typewriter, you will know you are in the right place.

Follow the hash tag #virtualletterwritingsocial to see and post pictures of the event.

Have you been writing more letters since being in self-isolation?

p.s check out the very cool typewritten pendants made by santoshapoetry and her typewriter.

Historic Berkeley Post Office

Famous for protests, liberal politics, civil rights and the free speech movements, Berkeley, California was a place I had to visit.

As I wandered the streets to find the University campus I randomly stumbled upon Berkeley’s historic Post Office.

Architecture and Art

My rambling detour was rewarded with the sight of this Post Office and its beautiful architecture. Built in 1914 in Renaissance Revival style the Post Office is hard to miss.

From the very ornate wood trim around the elevator that takes one to the Post Master’s lair to the mural painted by artist Suzanne Scheuer depicting Native Americans, Spanish explorers, Californios, it is no wonder this Post Office has been designated a historic site.

Protest to save the historic Berkeley Post Office

In fact, in typical Berkeley style, when the United States Postal Service announced in 2013 they were going to sell the building, there was a 33 day encampment on the steps to protest this action.

Along with a “Save the Berkeley Post Office” website the Mayor and city council joined forces with the residents to block the sale. Subsquently, in 2018 the city of Berkeley won it’s case and the Historic Post Office remains.

Post box envy

It is a fully operational Post Office today. If you look closely in the photo above, you can see the mail that is still picked up by locals in these most beautiful post boxes.

I want one.

They reminded me of ones in the Post Office in Carmel, California.

Wall sculpture featuring mail

I almost missed seeing this work of art as it is is hung at the far end of the outside porch entrance to the building. I’m so glad I doubled back to get a closer look.

It was created by sculptor David Silvka in 1937. Carved in stone on the package the man (back to the viewer) is holding are the sculptor’s initials and the words: “From D.S., To: All Mankind, Truth Abode on Freedom Road.”

Anyone else love to wander aimlessly when in a new place?

Write_On in April

Now is the time for snail mail.

With the current events being what they are across the globe, might I suggest this is the perfect time to write someone a letter. A note of kindness, a thoughtful ‘thinking of you’ card is just what the times call for.

Letter writing kits sell out

April is National Letter Writing Month but let’s not wait. Stock up now on stamps (never mind the toilet paper) and check out my favorite letter writing kit. It is now available as part of the campaign ‘write_on.’ They do sell out so if you are interested in picking up one, don’t delay.

How to get involved in National Letter Writing Month

Be sure to use the hashtag #write_on and connect with others who are also writing a note each day for 30 days during the month of April. Or you can opt for other ways to get involved in National Letter Writing Month.

Not sure how to start your letter? Here are some ideas of what you can write about.

So, let’s spread some positivity and joy in a world that could really use a some.

You with me?

p.s. And just so you know, it is safe for you to send/receive mail.

p.p.s. all photos are courtesy of eggpress.com

mountain postmark

Does anyone else send themselves mail? I definitely do when there is a unique postmark on the line. I recently stayed at Emerald Lake Lodge and the closest Post Office is in Lake Louise.

Lake Louise Postmark

On my way back home from Emerald Lake I stopped in at Lake Louise. I made friends with the Post Master (of course) and she was so kind to let me apply the post mark to my own mail.

Yes, I am a snail mail nerd.

Collecting postmarks

I just received my own postcard this week and I know some of my other mail sent at the same time has arrived at its destination.

Without realizing it, collecting postmarks have become a thing for me. Here’s is a postmark from my home town of Gravenhurst, Ontario, Canada.

Emerald Lake – my new favorite place

As you may have noticed on my postcard to myself (smile), Emerald Lake is my new favorite place. Seriously. I am already trying to figure out a way to go back and see it in the summer.

It was a magical winter wonderland. So much snow! The photo above is of the same building in the postcard, just from a slightly different angle.

Do you send mail to yourself?

a night at the museum

The sound of the typewriters were heard throughout the Lougheed House on launch night of their latest exhibit ‘Early Calgary Through the Eyes of Writers.’

Typewriters and authors a perfect match

How perfect for the typewriters to make an appearance at an event celebrating and showcasing the work of authors in early Calgary. There were many current-day authors in attendance who loved the old machines and promptly tried them out.

I managed to snap a few photos at the beginning of the event but it soon became so crowded and busy that I wasn’t able to get any more. A sign of a successful evening I think!

write something, anything, about Calgary

The museum ran a contest to encourage everyone to write. In no more than five sentences people were invited to write about Calgary. No further guidelines than that; just write about Calgary.

So many typewritten entries

Participants were asked to pin their entry onto the board when done and then, at the end of the evening, all entries were judged. As you can see, tons of people tried their hand at the typewriter and wrote a few lines.

restaurent at The Lougheed house is a hidden gem

If you are local to Calgary and have never been to The Lougheed house museum, I would highly recommend you check out this exhibit. Plus, The Lougheed restaurant on the premises is a hidden gem in the city.

It was a fabulous evening for me and the typewriters. Never have the zzzzzip and ding of the typewriters been heard in such a historic venue.

What is your favorite museum?

mail in Argentina

When I travel I love to look for and capture mailboxes of that place. Not exactly your typical tourist pass time, but I this is how I roll.

In addition to the Tango and great steak, Argentina did not disappoint in the mailbox department. Here are a smattering of my favorites.

‘cartas’

Literally translated to mean ‘letters.’ There were so many letter slots in doorways I could have easily snapped a pic on every block.

In Canada we have more community mail boxes or personal mailboxes, but not so many letter slots. What do you have where you live?

Doors to impress

Many of the letter slots were ornate and on huge, tall, massive doors. Just beautiful. So many beautiful doors!

the Europe of South America

Argentina is often referred to as the Europe of South America. I found this to be true in terms of the architecture and ‘feel’ of the city while I was in Buenos Aires.

“Don’t cry for me, Argentina”

Of course, I had to mail postcards back home while I was there. As of today, Feb 15, they still haven’t arrived and I have been home now for two and a half weeks. I do hope they eventually show up or I may shed a few tears over Argentina loosing my postcards.

Mailbox, letterbox, postbox….what do you call it?

p.s. If you would like to see more mailboxes from my travels have a peek at my instagram mailboxstyle.

Oomomo in Calgary

Do you love Japanese paper products? What about when almost everything is at a price point of $3? I thought so. You are going to want to get yourself to an Oomomo store.

Japanese department store

With 10 stores across Canada this Vancouver based brand opened a Calgary location in December of 2019. Described as a Japanese variety store, I went to visit for the first time this week.

Dollar store meets IKEA

I had about 50 minutes to tour this large store. I blew past the cosmetics, kitchen and travel sections until I reached the section I really came for – the stationery aisle(s).

The 50 minutes flew by. So many great paper finds. Then it got even better once I figured out everything was $3 unless other wise marked. Think dollar-store concept but then think IKEA as this store has a bit of everything – no furniture though.

Stationery sets for $3

I stocked up on stationery sets for my Letter Writing Socials, I especially loved the set in above picture with ombre shades of pink which I picked up for Valentine’s Day.

Much of the packaging was in Japanese so it was sometimes tricky to know exactly what was in the packages.

Needs more washi tape

Paper clips like you’ve never seen. I mean an avocado toast paper clip! I was a bit disappointed that selection of washi tape wasn’t what I was hoping. There was some but not worthy of a ‘wow’ moment.

“Big peach”

The name ‘Oomomo’ is pronounced ‘oh-mo-mo’ not ‘eww-mo-mo’ as I learned on my visit. It means ‘big peach’ in Japanese and I was told this is based on a Japanese children’s book.

Cafe coming soon

If you are in Richmond, British Columbia get ready for an addition of a cafe and a space for workshops.

Will I go back to Oomomo? Absolutely.

February is Month of Letters

This year is a Leap Year and February is when we pick up that extra day. An extra day to write a letter. How fabulous is that?! LetterMo.com kicks off a fun letter writing campaign starting February 1st.

If you’ve always wanted a pen pal or more people to write to, this is your chance. Sign up to exchange mail with people each day of the month.

Write back to everyone that writes you

You can send a postcard, a letter, a picture, a fabric swatch, but if you sign up, part of the deal is to commit to writing back everyone that writes you. Sounds reasonable to me as everyone wants to receive snail mail

Maybe you will want to send your pen pal a very cool Valentine’s Day postmark.

Will you participate in writing a letter each day in February?

p.s. thank you to Lettermo.com for permission to use and share their fabulous logos.

Monthly mail challenge

January is a time to refresh. Whether it be organzing that new daytimer or setting some goals, the new year is a blank slate. My friends over at Pretty Postal have put together just the thing we need to kick start our 2020 letter writing game.

At the beginning of every month they will announce a new theme and new challenge. This is not exactly a mail swap, but something better.

This is all about sending a piece of snail mail to someone in your life with no expectation with getting anything in return. It could be family, friends or a neighbour. See Pretty Postal for more info if you don’t know anyone to send some mail to.

For January the theme is all about ‘fresh’ and creating a piece of mail that fits this theme. You have absolute creative license on what you create. For me, ‘fresh’ is a field of beautiful snow, untouched by footprints and undisturbed in any way.

What does ‘fresh’ mean to you?

Ideas to get you started are here.

cost of a postage stamp in 2020

chinese new year postage stamps, cost of stamps in 2020, year of the rat

2020 is here, a brand new decade. This year the western calendar New Year and the Chinese New Year both fall in the same month. January 25th marks the beginning of the Year of the Rat and these Canada Post stamps, to be released on January 13, are absolutely beautiful.

I got a sneak peek last week as I was inquiring about increases to the cost of postage stamps. Yes, the cost of a postage stamp in 2020 is increasing…for the most part.

chinese new year postage stamp, year of the rat, postage rates for 2020

Buy stamps in booklets to save money

As of January 13, 2020 the cost of a postage stamp in Canada will be $1.07. If you buy in a booklet or coil roll, the cost is $0.92. Both options are two cents more than last year.

To send a letter to the USA from Canada will now cost $1.30 and to send internationally the price will be $2.71. More details here.

Canada is not the only country increasing its postal rates. On January 26 you letter writing folk in the USA can expect to see your stamp prices increase by this much.

As for those of you serviced by Royal Mail, if I’m understanding correctly, I believe the increase only applies to business mail.

Do you care if the price of stamps increase?

May we delight in the little things this Christmas

‘How the Grinch Stole Christmas’ by Dr. Seuss is on my ‘must-watch’ list of Christmas movies every year — the original 1966 version that is.

As we all finish the Christmas bustle over the next few days, I want to remind myself, and perhaps you can relate, to delight in the little things this holiday season;

  • the smell of cookies in oven
  • the Christmas lights on the houses on the drive home
  • opening the Christmas card that was in the mailbox
  • the stillness of a star lit night
  • wrapping a gift for someone dear
  • the hot tea after being outside in cold weather

May we be like little Cindy Lou Who, who is enchanted by the tiniest of strawberries served on a dish, delight in the little things this Christmas.

Merry Christmas,

Barb

p.s. what movies are on your ‘must-watch’ list this Christmas?

7 tips on writing a letter to Santa

It’s time to write a letter to the big guy in the jolly red suit. Here are seven tips on writing a letter to Santa:

  • All letters need to be sent by December 12. This way, Santa’s elves will have time to respond to your letter. Those funny little creatures.
  • Postage is free. No stamps are required to send a letter to Santa. And did you know that your letter will be answered in your language? Not only are they funny, but those elves are multilingual too.
  • Santa’s address: Santa Claus, North Pole, H0H 0H0, Canada.
  • Letters are welcome from all over the world. If you do live outside Canada and want to send Santa a letter this year, stop reading this and run and grab a pen and write it now.
  • Make sure to thank Santa in your letter. He is a magical guy who loves a grateful heart. And don’t forget to be polite; perhaps inquire how the reindeer are doing.
  • Get your mom or dad to help you and feel free to draw Santa a picture. No doubt he loves pictures. Canada Post also has some templates to make things easy.
  • And MOST IMPORTANTLY, remember to include your address in the top left corner of the envelope. If you want a response back (and who doesn’t) the elves need to know your address.

Hopefully these 7 tips on writing a letter to Santa were helpful. What did you ask Santa for?

p.s. These photos are from a recent ‘Letters To Santa’ event I co-hosted with stationery shop Recess. One of my favorite events of the year!

‘Wrinkle and Crease’ Sale

A name is everything. Wrinkle and Crease is a perfect name for a stationery shop, don’t you think?

Local to Calgary I’ve loved all the paper goodness from Wrinkle and Crease from day one including these fa la la la gift tags.

Until midnight December 2nd everything is on sale! Keep reading for details and my favorite picks from Wrinkle and Crease.

Kayley, the owner behind this stationery shop has an asethetic style I love. Classic, clean, minimalist. I’ve used her daily planner when she first created it, five years ago. I just bought the one above, in oatmeal linen, for 2020.

Who doesn’t love this Grinch quote? This card is one of my favorites.

A new design this year, this red foil “Happy Holidays to you” card is beautiful. I love the cursive font and the little ‘x’ at the bottom. Plus, that red envelope is the perfect Christmas red.

Wrinkle and Crease has a sale on, right now, of 15% OFF ALL ORDERS! Scoop up this sweet Holiday Activities card by midnight December 2nd with promocode: SAVEMORE and save 15%.

If you decide to spend $100, your order is 20% off (promocode: SAVEMORE20 or if your order is $200 then you save 25% (promocode:SAVEMORE25).

P.S. Thanks to Wrinkle and Crease for the use of their photos.

P.P.S. I love Wrinkle and Crease so much that since the end of October I’ve been working pt with Kayley. Maybe I will even fill your orders?! Visit my Facebook page for a behind-the-scenes photo of where the magic happens.

time to send Christmas cards

Do you send Christmas cards? Not the e-card, the Christmas gif over text or the latest tik tok video. I mean the real deal paper, requires-a-postage-stamp kind of Christmas card. Do you send those?

According to the Canada Post Christmas mail schedule, it is time to send Christmas cards. The USPS schedule is similar. Starting early is my number one tip on how to send Christmas cards without yanking out your hair. Here are some more of my tips that make sending Christmas cards easy.

#MakeItMerry, cards, homeless, Christmas

Some of my favorite Christmas cards

It will come as no surprise to you that I am all about old-school Christmas cards. I usually do a photo card of the family, including the blooper pics. This year I ordered through Minted. As two of the kids are getting older and no longer living at home full time, I fear the longevity of the family photo card is quickly dwindling.

I also love cards by Jill Weston, LittleMayPapery, WrinkleandCreaseand for custom options cards, haute note is fabulous.

time to send Christmas cards

In the spirit of the season, christmas cards aren’t just for individuals. There are compelling reasons why a business should send Christmas cards too.

No matter who we are, I’m betting that all of us love getting a Christmas card in the mailbox, so why not delight someone this year by sending one of your own?

Time to send Christmas cards!

Aunt Shirley always gave Christmas stamps

Aunt Shirley loved postage stamps. Especially the Christmas ones. Every year she would gift her nieces and nephews a collection of holiday stamps.

She meticulously searched for and collected the stamps, chronicling which ones she still needed to get and how many she had already aquired.

curated stamps with care

It was an unexpected surprise when I was generously gifted many of these Christmas stamps. To honor Aunt Shirley’s memory I wanted to share the story of her love of postage stamps with you.

It was like discovering tiny treasures as I opened the stack of envelopes each containing thoughtfully curated Christmas stamps. Often Aunt Shirley would colour code notes for herself in the most beautiful cursive writing.

a well lived life

It will be two years this December that Aunt Shirley passed away. She was from Manitoba, Canada, and I’m told she had a very active life of art, travel, public speaking, continuing education and fine restaurants.* Sounds like a woman after my own heart.

stamps that keep on giving

What will I do with these stamps, you ask? Two things, both of which have been met with approval from Aunt Shirley’s family. I will use the stamps at my Christmas Letter Writing Socials.

The stamps will also be used in a mini post office I help run in two local homeless shelters as part of MakeItMerry. The clients of these shelters will be able to use these stamps to mail a Christmas card.

Aunt Shirley’s legacy will live on, as joy and love are sent through the mail using her stamps this Christmas.

*from Shirley’s obituary 2017

Do guys write letters?

Recently I received a letter from a man who was perturbed with me. He suggested that I depict letter writing to be a female pass time.

Stopped me in my tracks he did. Once I got over my emotional response, which was not pretty, I sent him back a letter.

I wish I kept a copy of my response but believe me when I say, I had to take a few deep breaths so calm would prevail. I assured him that I invite and encourage everyone to discover the lost art of letter writing.

Mostly women that attend my LWS’s

But he did get me thinking. As I furiously scrolled through photos, I was hard pressed to find more than a handful from my Letter Writing Socials that showed men in attendance. Mostly it is women who come.

But I know for certain that guys do write letters, because some of you reading this right now write to me. Over at artofmaniless are not one but several articles on the importance of letter writing for guys.

So, I ask you dear readers, do guys write letters?

Things left behind in books

What people use to mark their place in a book varies as much as the titles on a bookshelf. This collection of things left behind in books is on display at one of my favorite book shops.

Things used as bookmarks don’t get thrown out

Cafe Books in Canmore is a must visit when you are in this beautiful mountain town. It has both a used bookshop and one where the books are new. I love how they keep the things they find in the used books instead of throwing them out.

Collection ranging from sentimental to strange

Everytime I go, the collection of things left in books changes. Old library cards, prize ribbons, paper money, airline ticket stubs, a button that says ‘work shouldn’t suck’ — it all makes for a fascinating display.

What do you use for a bookmark?

This sweet handmade bookmark for mom is just adorable. I fear that mom might be sad to know she left it in her book. It got me thinking.

Do we choose bookmarks because of their sentimental value or because the thing happens to be whatever is handy?

Stationery and books, two of my favorite things

Five years ago I wrote about this bookshop and the collection of things left in books, here is how it looked then. Truth be told this bookshop can be a dangerous place for my wallet, on par with a good stationery store. Anyone relate?

The charm of a bookstore

I love how every nook and cranny is jammed with books. Plus the opportunity to have a bowl of soup, perhaps a pastry and tea while surrounded by books seems just about perfect to me.

What are you reading these days? What do you use for a bookmark?

ritewhileucan stationery

Stationery is hard to come by. Cards are plentiful, postcards too, but stationery – actual sheets of paper to write letters on – is tricky to find.

I’m beyond thrilled to introduce you to the brand new stationery line by ritewhileucan. In partnership with local Feast Letterpress I’ve designed a ‘mix and match’ line of stationery.

letter press signature line mini motifs

To make letter writing a little easier I’ve incorporated a signature line page, complete with a mini typewriter, envelope or mailbox.

two sheets + one envelope

If you want to write a two-page letter there is also a blank sheet to pair with the signature line sheet.

The paper is by French Paper Co and in what I call a linen colour. The envelope is by Midori, a Japanese stationery brand.

Each sheet measures 6 x 9 inches and the envelope, which opens on the horizontal, is 3.5 x 7 inches.

Free shipping in October*

If you would like to purchase ritewhileucan stationery, please let me know and I will send to you right away.

For two sheets/one envelope the cost is $6 CDN plus shipping. *If you place an order in October, shipping within Canada is free . You can mix and match which two sheets of paper you want. One envelope will be included in each set.

Some refer to the farewell signoff of a letter as a valediction or closing. What do you call it?

Book your Christmas LWS

Stumped for what to do for your office Christmas party? Or perhaps you are wanting a unique holiday event for your book club. A Letter Writing Social is just what Santa would recommend.

Why settle for the normal?

This past week I hosted my second LWS with Westjet and it was a ton of fun. Although not Christmassy per say, it did get me thinking about the typical corporate party. Why not shake things up a bit? Surprise the team and get a little creative and bring in the typewriters.

Book a Christmas Letter Writing Social

Imagine writing letters to Santa, or Christmas cards to colleagues and family, or maybe setting goals for 2020. Of course, wine and food would be a given, right?!

Should you be interested, send me a message for all the details. I just booked an event for December 9th so the sooner we get it on the calendar the better.

Now on YouTube

The rumor is true. Ritewhileucan is now on YouTube, hanging with all the cool kids. Topics you will find me sharing on the ‘tube include all things related to letter writing, typewriters, my adventures, my passion for safe skin care products and the like.

What content would you like to see on my YouTube channel?

Any ideas you would like to see for content would be wonderful, so suggest away. The channel is a bit of work in progress and certainly required me to get comfortable being uncomfortable; thanks in advance for your patience.

I would be just giddy with gratitude if you felt like checking it out. And dare I say, feel free to ‘like’ and ‘subscribe’ if you felt the urge.

come to a letter writing social

Fall kicks off the perfect letter writing season in my mind. The air feels a bit crisp, the leaves are starting to turn colour and the need for a sweater makes me want to write all the letters.

You are invited to the first letter writing social of the season

To that end, I start up my letter writing socials in the Fall and the first one is next week on Sept 12th. Here is a schedule for the Fall/Winter LWS’s.

Come out from 6:30-8 pm, $15 at the door (no registration required) and you will have access to vintage postage stamps and stationery. And of course the typewriters will be there; debuting this year is my cursive Olympia. A beverage of your choice is included. I hope to see you there.

Do you agree that Fall is the best time to write letters?

Back-to-school sale at Recess Shop

Back-to-school fever is upon us. Even though I’m way past my (formal) student days, I will forever love this time of year. The pens, the crisp pages of a notebook full of so much potential, pencil cases, erasers, all of it.

Back-to-school sale at Recess shop in Calgary

A favorite shop of mine in Calgary (soon to have their wares on-line) is Recess. Even the name is freak’n amazing.

Right now there is a sale on for all you amazing teachers out there and then, starting tomorrow, August 23rd, the sale is extended to the public.

A little work. A lot of play.

This store is a dangerous place for me. And I dare say for anyone who geeks out over beautiful, unique stationery products as much as me. That’s why when there is a sale I’m all over it.

Check out the workshops at Recess

Last Christmas I took the typewriters and hosted a ‘Letters to Santa’ workshop at Recess. It was magical. Do check out the workshops offered at Recess, you won’t be disappointed.

What is your favorite thing about back-to-school?

Maybe it is the excuse to get yourself a new pen? Or perhaps it is the fact that you will have your routine back with the kiddies out the door?

As for me? It is all about the stationery supplies.

Christmas came early

It sure did! Christmas made an early appearance this year. Canada Post is NOT on strike this Christmas. A merry turn of events for sure. You may remember that last year this time, Canada Post was indeed on strike. There were no Christmas cards. Mailboxes remained empty of any mail. Small business’s struggled without having […]

DIY envelopes from vintage maps

It’s the perfect season for a good DIY. Plus, what else am I going to do while Canada Post is on strike yet again….this is the second time in 10 months. I could rant, but that would be another blog post. I bought a bunch of vintage maps this summer from Green Turtle Salvage with […]

Typewriter Event in Port Hope, Ontario

Come explore the charming town of Port Hope, Ontario on June 22nd and follow the sounds of the typewriters to Furby House Books. You won’t be disappointed. While International Typewriter Day is technically on June 23rd, we are going to be marking the ocassion one day early. Drop-in between 12-2pm and try a vintage typewriter. […]

Card Lady in Aisle One

I answer to ‘Card Lady’ now. And I’m pretty darn happy about it. My new nickname has been bestowed on me by the lovely people who work in the stores I service as a merchandiser for Carlton Cards. Yes, you read that correctly. So many questions, right? ‘Hiya, card lady!’ No better greeting in my […]

Cards you need for June

So you can enjoy the month of June, and have all your cards at the ready, consider getting them now. Want a deal? How about 15% off…if you order by May 31st. Code is listed below. June can be such a busy month. Especially if you have kids school age. This blog post features cards […]

why send a Valentine?

Here are my top 5 reasons why you should send a Valentine: I’m making up lost ground since mail was not being delivered here in Canada over the Christmas season and sending out more Valentine’s that usual. How about you? Are you sending any Valentine’s? If you really want the ‘wow’ factor, send a Valentine […]

Mail strike means no Christmas cards

It is 10 days before Christmas. I sit here feeling very ‘humbug-ish.’ I am thoroughly frustrated by the sad fact that the postal system here in Canada has been and IS STILL on strike after four weeks or so. Unacceptable. Yes, I realize there are important matters at hand. Yes, I know each side says […]

Port Hope Ontario Typewriter Guild

The historic town of Port Hope is a perfect setting for the next meet-up of the Ontario Typewriter Guild. I mean, honestly, this town is gushing with charm. Think ‘Stars Hollow’ from the Gilmore Girls series. Or if that doesn’t resonate with you, I find very it similar to a mashup of Niagara-on-the-Lake in Ontario […]

save 20% at leuchtturm1917

Yup. You read that right. I’ve left a code for you at the bottom of this post. In the meantime, take a look at this amazing journal and pen that I was gifted by Leuchtturm1917. Plus the cutest pen loop…I didn’t even know such a thing existed, but it’s brilliant! keep things in one place […]

Mailboxes of Port Hope

I’ve fallen hard for my new home town of Port Hope, Ontario, Canada, I mean, how could I not with its historic downtown and the many beautiful century homes? Today on the blog I welcome you to view the ‘mailboxes of Port Hope’ gallery. I have a sneaking suspicion it is the first of a […]

sending Christmas cards made easy

Time to mail all the Christmas cards and Holiday greetings. It’s snail mails shining season. And I love all things about it. But I recognize it can feel overwhelming, like an obligatory chore even. Here are some of my top tips to put the joy back into sending Christmas cards: *Get your postage stamps early […]

Letter Writing Club box

I would have camped out overnight at my Post Box this week if they would have let me. That’s how full of anticipation I was to receive a lovely gift from Cody Calligraphy Launching Sept 12 is her Letter Writing Club and I got a sneak peek at the subscription box full of letter writing […]

My trip to the Toronto Stationery Show

My trip to the Toronto Stationery Show in April was a dream come true. Having watched from afar, and then virtually, it was exciting for everyone to be able to have back the in-person show. And, I gotta say, it did not disappoint. Keep reading to see my stationery haul. I really had to work […]

Christmas Post Office

There could have easily been sleigh tracks leading up to this Christmas Post Office. I had to pull over and investigate. I mean, come on, a Post Office in a house with Christmas garland out front? This is a Christmas Post Office if I’ve ever seen one, don’t you agree? Locust Hill is a historic […]

Letters to Amelia

Letters to Amelia Earhart actually. Yes, that Amelia Earhart. The first female aviator to fly solo across the Atlantic ocean. And who was lost at sea amidst much mystery. Lindsay Zier-Vogel, a Toronto author, and I share a mutual love of all things snail mails. We know some of the same (amazing) people in the […]

candy floss and carousels

Do you have a summer memory of candy floss and carousels? These vintage carousel stamps from Canada Post feature five vintage carousels from different locations across Canada. One of which is at Heritage Park Historical Park in my city of Calgary. Of course I had to go. I won’t admit whether candy floss was consumed […]

My new favorite address book

The pages were falling out, the cover ragged and beaten up, and the paper wearing thin from making multiple changes to addresses over the years. If you own a hard copy address book you might relate. Paperblanks came to my rescue. They heard of the dire state of my address book and swooped in with […]

Tea and Letter Writing Workshop

A tea and letter writing workshop? I mean, come on, what could be better together?! You are invited to join Taniya from @yogateapoetry and myself, virtually, as we mark International Women’s Day. While sipping tea you will write to a woman that has made an impact on your life. A handwritten note is the perfect […]

Happy Christmas

Dear readers, Only four sleeps until Christmas. I don’t know about you, but I am very ready for some time off from obligations and timelines. I also can’t wait for the smell of Christmas dinner cooking and opening the Christmas stockings with my family. A special thanks for following along here and sharing my love […]

tea and tap in Banff, Alberta

Jolene’s Tea House is located in Banff National Park in Canada, on Bear Street no less. The log cabin, better known as the Old Crag Cabin, is one of the oldest buildings in Banff. Built between 1888-1890, this building has been many things. A residence, a local newspaper (if you look close enough when inside, […]

Letter to Santa kit

Holly Jolly Christmas. Holly Loves Paper that is. This adorable Letter to Santa kit is designed by Holly herself. How perfect is that!? In fact, I’m giving away a kit to one lucky person. Keep reading to find out how to enter. wax seal – stickers – candy cane pen Holly first started designing stationery […]

Virtual holiday events

Have sending Christmas cards crossed your mind yet? November is right around the corner and I always feel that the earlier you start the more enjoyable the experience is. Agree? On November 12, I am hosting a virtual holiday event with Calgary Library. Might be just the thing you need to kick start your holiday […]

Travelling letter writing and stationery van

When I think of the word ‘farmer’ I don’t think about letter writing. Do you? Once I sit with it for a bit, I can see the connection. As the TheLetterFarmerCo travels around she is definitely planting seeds and introducing people to letter writing, and that with a little care and intention, something wonderful will […]

Fall Virtual LWS schedule

Virtual Letter Writing Socials are coming back. We had such fun last year that the concensus is we should do it again. I’m so excited! Thanks to Sean @yyctypewriter (above) for being a regular attendee and for sharing in my love of typewriters and…bell bottom jeans. Ha! People joined in from far and wide Due […]

Punk Post your Summer

Stay cool is right! Time for popsicles and to punk post your summer. Punkpost is an online service that allows you to choose a real deal (vs electronic) card and then….the best part…an artist handletters your card with your message AND mails it for you. Pick your card and let Punkpost do the rest I […]

retro summer stationery

Flip flops and popsicles. The summer vibe is strong over at PenPalingPaula with her latest summer stationery collection. Keep reading for your chance to WIN! Postcards rule the summer snail mail scene I feel. Traditionally, postcards were sent to those back home and these retro postcard designs are perfect for that….even if we aren’t away […]

Snail Mail Clothing

Launched on June 24th the Snail Mail edition of The Happiest Collection made the best Birthday gift ever. Seriously. I mean, the queen of snail mail – one of many – gets her own Snail Mail clothing line? BEST THING EVER! Enter the GIVEAWAY Head over to my Instagram for your chance to win a […]

LEGO typewriter July 1st

Any LEGO ® fans out there? You better mark July 1, 2021 on the calendar as this is the day when LEGO® is releasing it’s typewriter set. For $269.99 CDN…gulp…this typewriter that you can build out of lego bricks (recommended for 18+) has a moveable carriage and keys. The font is already on the keys […]

book lover postcards sent

Over 100 people signed up to participate in the latest BookLoverPostcardSwap. Countries represented included Canada, UK, Spain, USA, Italy, Ireland to name a few. I thought you might like to see a sampling of some of the amazing postcards and book recommendations that got swapped. Above, Kelly @thehappiestbookclub received this postcard, custom made just for […]

Book Lover Postcard Swap

It’s been a minute since Jessica of Paper Trail Diary and I have done a Book Lover Postcard Swap. The fun started way back in 2016 and brings people together through a postcard and love of books. Why not celebrate National Letter Writing Month by joining in on the Book Lover Postcard Swap! Signups are […]

How to participate National Letter Writing Month

April is National Letter Writing Month! You ready for it? Second only to Christmas, this is my favourite time of the year. I invite you to join in the fun, give letter writing a try and see what all the fuss is about. Off the top, you can join this event, above, hosted by Berks […]

prepaid postage postcards from Canada Post

I just received my free, prepaid postage postcard yesterday! I’ve been so excited about this snail mail campaign by Canada Post. Have you received yours yet? Keep reading for some insider tips on these postcards. postcards are arriving daily across Canada The postcards are gradually finding their way into the mailboxes of all Canadians. If […]

Meet my new crush

“Be My Valentine” position has been filled. Meet my new crush, Sugarbakers Cookies Co. They are just my type and their cookies are to swoon over. snail mail cookies You would think I custom ordered these cookies, but Michelle and her mom (both owners of this Calgary cookie company) were way ahead of me. I […]

send a note of thanks

Two questions for you. A) When was the last time you received a note of thanks? B) Have you recently sent anyone a note of thanks? These cards showed up in my mailbox over the holidays and they couldn’t have come at a better time for me personally. More than just a polite gesture Sending […]

covid gifts

The world has been turned upside down in 2020 and our Christmas will be very different this year. Extended families will not be together and there are no holiday parties. We can’t attend church in person to celebrate Christmas and there will be no counting down New Year’s Eve with friends. But guess what? The […]

letters to santa in 2020

What would you write to Santy Claus this year? Or maybe you would prefer to chat with the Mrs? It’s not too late. Here is everything you need to know about writing to Santa in 2020. Mail your letter by Dec 12 Get your letter in the mail by December 12, 2020 if you want […]

2020 Christmas Mailing deadlines

The short answer? Mail it now. Normally Canada Post has deadlines for sending holiday mail internationally or to the USA, and if mailed by these dates Canada Post guarantees delivery before Christmas. Not this year. Stamps by Nova Scotia artist Maude Lewis That being said, the absolutely amazing thing for your Christmas mail this year […]

bring on 2021

Who’s ready for 2021? I bet most of us are. I have always looked forward to cracking open a brand new planner and for several years now I have been using the planner by Wrinkle and Crease. This year there are three shades to choose from – stone grey (pictured above), oatmeal and black. Can […]

Toronto Stationery Show

It’s happening! The Toronto Stationery Show will go on. Albeit virtually, this years event is definitely a must-do for stationery addicts everywhere. All the fun begins October 18th and runs until November 7. Follow along on TSS’s Facebook Event Page or on any of their social channels* for exclusive show specials. There are SO many […]

Fall stationery

Fall themed stationery has never looked so fine. Found at Scriptoria Regalia you will be falling hard for this stationery collection. walnut pattern Created with utmost attention to design and with high quality Italian paper this Walnuts Letter Writing Set has all the Fall vibes. And that envelope liner….I’m swooning over here! Candycorn sweet on […]

Oct 1 World Postcard Day

Simply put, postcards are the best. The small writing space invites rather than intimidates, and it does double duty by sending a favorite photo or memory AND a message. A win, win, I’d say. October 1st is World Postcard Day, the perfect opportunity to send a postcard. Keep reading for ideas on who you can […]

Thom + Tom = typewriter pals

Do you remember the movie “Cast Away?” You know, with Tom Hanks stranded on an island with a volleyball named Wilson as his only friend? Well imagine if instead of a volley ball it had been a typewriter that survived the plane crash along with Tom Hank’s character. A whole new plot line would have […]

letters

Letters mingle souls. Indeed, poet John Donne captured the charm of snail mail perfectly. And so too has my friend Micaela with her gorgeous mailslot themed stationery. vintage stamp sets These postcards are based on a vintage French mailslot design. You can purchase individually or in a set of five. Plus, a percentage of profits […]

6ft apart. 6 ft closer.

A 6 ft piece of paper is longer than I thought. It is the distance we now keep between each other in the name of social distancing. It can feel far, can’t it? No standing close, no handshakes, and certainly no hugs. This is why the concept of using a 6 ft piece of paper […]

virtual Letter Writing Socials

Letter writing is most often a solitary experience. Pen, paper, a cup of tea perhaps, and time to get lost in one’s own thoughts as the conversation between writer and recipient unfolds on paper. However, the advent of virtual Letter Writing Socials has illustrated the importance of community, whether we write letters or not. If […]

what was in my mailbox this week. No.13.

P.S. Write Soon. One of the best signature lines ever. This envelope with all the stamps was in my mailbox recently. Instead of ripping it open on my walk home, I waited until I had a glass of ice tea, and time to sit and read it. Letters are to be savored, no?! As entry […]

typewriter class

Just follow the chorus of the tap, tap, zzzzzzzip, ding and you could easily find the typing class at your local highschool. Admittedly this ages those of us who actually participated in an ‘Introduction to Typing’ class back in the day, but honestly, I’m pretty jazzed that I can actually type. Typewriter lending library In […]

Dear loneliness…

Writing letters bring friends and family closer. They help alleviate loneliness and certainly spread joy. The Dear Loneliness project started by Jessica and fellow students at Harvard University, is about loneliness in general but also specifically during Covid. have you been lonely? Write a letter about loneliness as a topic; perhaps a personal experience of […]

seniors looking for penpals

These seniors have blown up the internet this week. Love when this kinda idea resonates with so many people. Covid is especially difficult for seniors in homes who are not able to see family or friends who live outside the home. Victorian Senior Care, an organization in the USA that manages several assisted care facilities […]

soulPAPER

I had a tour of soulPAPER shop last week. The hardwood floors, the racks of beautiful paper and shelves with all sorts of stationery goodness left me swooning. And this was a virtual visit, imagine if I had actually been there in person! Susan, owner of this delightful space, was the special guest on my […]

June 23 Typewriter Day

It only makes sense that National Typewriter Day is one day before my Birthday 😛 How can we not celebrate?! After you’ve danced a bit to The Boston Typewriter Orchestra-quarantine version, head on over to my Instagram page for a fun contest (will be posted Monday, June 22nd). You are invited! Birthday Virtual Letter Writing […]

The Seasonal Pages stickers

Helping people thrive and discover their creative side was the inspiration behind the opening of sweet paper shop, The Seasonal Pages, in early 2020. A lover of stationery (kindred spirit over here) and stickers for some time, Isaly decided to make some of her own. The first product I discovered by Seasonal Pages was this […]

Black Lives Honored

My heart is heavy. What has been happening to black people for far too long has been horrifically magnified this week. As a white woman I am acutely aware that I can’t speak to the systematic racism and the subsequent ramifications; I haven’t walked in those shoes. What I can do though is listen, learn […]

Museums invite you to write a letter

Have you written a letter during these Covid days? If you have, I bet that the topic of the pandemic has come up. Maybe you have shared how you are baking bread from scratch these days or how Covid has impacted your life in other ways. Our letters have become the quarantine diaries and years […]

time for a RECESS

Covid life wears thin if we don’t take a break from it all. I don’t know about you, but I need to take a conscious break from all the media and focus on something that is positive, beautiful and creative. This is when I turn to one of my favorite stationery shops, RECESS, based in […]

Book Lover Postcard Swap – Comfort Edition

After a long hiatus the Book Lover Postcard Swap is back! Teaming up again with Jessica of Paper Trail Diary, we thought it was the perfect time to talk books on a postcard. I mean, what with COVID across the land, we need to swap what titles are bringing us comfort these days. For more […]

farewell California Typewriter

Have you watched the 2016 documentary California Typewriter? It features Tom Hanks and John Mayer. Shockingly I have not. Instead… I went to the actual store. A visit to the actual store This film has eluded me for some time. I missed the Canadian screenings for a variety of reasons and it’s not on Netflix.* […]

Cabin Fever?

Do you have cabin fever? I think we all do. My friends at The Regional Assembly of Text have picked up on this global feeling and have put together this most clever package of letter writing supplies to help us ward off cabin fever. Stay Stationary Send Stationery Brandy, one of the co-founders of this […]

Washi Tape Sale

World Stationery Day is coming up on April 29th. Isn’t it great that there is a day set aside to celebrate stationery? Like I need an excuse. I want to celebrate with you by sharing the debut line of washi tape by my friend Paula AND a 25% off discount code to use this weekend. […]

what was in my mailbox this week. No. 12

“A person with defiant joy refuses to be squelched by negative voices or intimidated by overwhelming odds.” A letter that arrived recently had a quote in it that I’ve been thinking on ever since. It is profoundly perfect for our times. I also love it when people use my letter press stationery to write to […]

is mail still being delivered?

Are you wondering if you can still send mail or how to get postage stamps? Or maybe you are curious about whether the Covid-19 virus can be transmitted through the mail? Perhaps you want to know if all countries are still accepting international mail? Thank you to all the postal workers! Some of these questions […]

notes from quarantine

Food banks are feeling the pressure in these times. My friends at Feast Letterpress have swooped in with a fabulous idea. Introducing Notes From Quarantine. This is a letter writing set with six sheets of paper, three envelopes AND three Canadian permanent stamps. All proceeds from sales will go to the Calgary Food Bank. Letters […]

virtural letter writing social

I would never have imagined writing letters virtually via Instagram live video, but that is exactly what 33 of us did last week. Our current reality of self-isolation has made us think differently, to be creative in how we find community when we are physically removed from one another. community in letter writing virtually I […]

Historic Berkeley Post Office

Famous for protests, liberal politics, civil rights and the free speech movements, Berkeley, California was a place I had to visit. As I wandered the streets to find the University campus I randomly stumbled upon Berkeley’s historic Post Office. Architecture and Art My rambling detour was rewarded with the sight of this Post Office and […]

Write_On in April

Now is the time for snail mail. With the current events being what they are across the globe, might I suggest this is the perfect time to write someone a letter. A note of kindness, a thoughtful ‘thinking of you’ card is just what the times call for. Letter writing kits sell out April is […]

mountain postmark

Does anyone else send themselves mail? I definitely do when there is a unique postmark on the line. I recently stayed at Emerald Lake Lodge and the closest Post Office is in Lake Louise. Lake Louise Postmark On my way back home from Emerald Lake I stopped in at Lake Louise. I made friends with […]

a night at the museum

The sound of the typewriters were heard throughout the Lougheed House on launch night of their latest exhibit ‘Early Calgary Through the Eyes of Writers.’ Typewriters and authors a perfect match How perfect for the typewriters to make an appearance at an event celebrating and showcasing the work of authors in early Calgary. There were […]

mail in Argentina

When I travel I love to look for and capture mailboxes of that place. Not exactly your typical tourist pass time, but I this is how I roll. In addition to the Tango and great steak, Argentina did not disappoint in the mailbox department. Here are a smattering of my favorites. ‘cartas’ Literally translated to […]

Oomomo in Calgary

Do you love Japanese paper products? What about when almost everything is at a price point of $3? I thought so. You are going to want to get yourself to an Oomomo store. Japanese department store With 10 stores across Canada this Vancouver based brand opened a Calgary location in December of 2019. Described as […]

February is Month of Letters

This year is a Leap Year and February is when we pick up that extra day. An extra day to write a letter. How fabulous is that?! LetterMo.com kicks off a fun letter writing campaign starting February 1st. If you’ve always wanted a pen pal or more people to write to, this is your chance. […]

Monthly mail challenge

January is a time to refresh. Whether it be organzing that new daytimer or setting some goals, the new year is a blank slate. My friends over at Pretty Postal have put together just the thing we need to kick start our 2020 letter writing game. At the beginning of every month they will announce […]

cost of a postage stamp in 2020

2020 is here, a brand new decade. This year the western calendar New Year and the Chinese New Year both fall in the same month. January 25th marks the beginning of the Year of the Rat and these Canada Post stamps, to be released on January 13, are absolutely beautiful. I got a sneak peek […]

May we delight in the little things this Christmas

‘How the Grinch Stole Christmas’ by Dr. Seuss is on my ‘must-watch’ list of Christmas movies every year — the original 1966 version that is. As we all finish the Christmas bustle over the next few days, I want to remind myself, and perhaps you can relate, to delight in the little things this holiday […]

7 tips on writing a letter to Santa

It’s time to write a letter to the big guy in the jolly red suit. Here are seven tips on writing a letter to Santa: All letters need to be sent by December 12. This way, Santa’s elves will have time to respond to your letter. Those funny little creatures. Postage is free. No stamps […]

‘Wrinkle and Crease’ Sale

A name is everything. Wrinkle and Crease is a perfect name for a stationery shop, don’t you think? Local to Calgary I’ve loved all the paper goodness from Wrinkle and Crease from day one including these fa la la la gift tags. Until midnight December 2nd everything is on sale! Keep reading for details and […]

time to send Christmas cards

Do you send Christmas cards? Not the e-card, the Christmas gif over text or the latest tik tok video. I mean the real deal paper, requires-a-postage-stamp kind of Christmas card. Do you send those? According to the Canada Post Christmas mail schedule, it is time to send Christmas cards. The USPS schedule is similar. Starting […]

Aunt Shirley always gave Christmas stamps

Aunt Shirley loved postage stamps. Especially the Christmas ones. Every year she would gift her nieces and nephews a collection of holiday stamps. She meticulously searched for and collected the stamps, chronicling which ones she still needed to get and how many she had already aquired. curated stamps with care It was an unexpected surprise […]

Do guys write letters?

Recently I received a letter from a man who was perturbed with me. He suggested that I depict letter writing to be a female pass time. Stopped me in my tracks he did. Once I got over my emotional response, which was not pretty, I sent him back a letter. I wish I kept a […]

Things left behind in books

What people use to mark their place in a book varies as much as the titles on a bookshelf. This collection of things left behind in books is on display at one of my favorite book shops. Things used as bookmarks don’t get thrown out Cafe Books in Canmore is a must visit when you […]

ritewhileucan stationery

Stationery is hard to come by. Cards are plentiful, postcards too, but stationery – actual sheets of paper to write letters on – is tricky to find. I’m beyond thrilled to introduce you to the brand new stationery line by ritewhileucan. In partnership with local Feast Letterpress I’ve designed a ‘mix and match’ line of […]

Book your Christmas LWS

Stumped for what to do for your office Christmas party? Or perhaps you are wanting a unique holiday event for your book club. A Letter Writing Social is just what Santa would recommend. Why settle for the normal? This past week I hosted my second LWS with Westjet and it was a ton of fun. […]

Now on YouTube

The rumor is true. Ritewhileucan is now on YouTube, hanging with all the cool kids. Topics you will find me sharing on the ‘tube include all things related to letter writing, typewriters, my adventures, my passion for safe skin care products and the like. What content would you like to see on my YouTube channel? […]

come to a letter writing social

Fall kicks off the perfect letter writing season in my mind. The air feels a bit crisp, the leaves are starting to turn colour and the need for a sweater makes me want to write all the letters. You are invited to the first letter writing social of the season To that end, I start […]

Back-to-school sale at Recess Shop

Back-to-school fever is upon us. Even though I’m way past my (formal) student days, I will forever love this time of year. The pens, the crisp pages of a notebook full of so much potential, pencil cases, erasers, all of it. Back-to-school sale at Recess shop in Calgary A favorite shop of mine in Calgary […]

Holiday Post Series – Part II

Christmas, random ramblings / by

If not now, when?

I think that if there ever is a time of year when people think about writing a letter or sending a card it is during the Christmas season.

And with this end in mind I have compiled a bit of a round-up of some of my favorite on-line card sites.

You have been asking me about what sites to use for creating your Christmas cards on-line and just this week a friend of mine posted on her Face Book this very topic. The comments were so helpful I thought that others might be interested too.

This was my card last year from Tiny Prints – minus these cuties!

So, while not an exhaustive list, I have combined these suggestions with my own in hopes that you might use it as a ‘go to’ resource.

Although I  have my favorites, I have not personally tried all the sites listed.  But all those that I have included have either been recommended to me or I have tried myself. Here is a direct link to  create your Christmas cards with Tiny Prints.

Card by Cherry Blossom

 

 

Shutterfly “Candy Cane Collage”

 

 

 

 

 

 

Things to consider:

1) Decide if you want to design your card using design templates provided or if you want to just dump a photo in and be done.

2) If you choose ‘design my own’ most sites allow you to set up your own account. You want this so you can start your card but not need to finish it in one sitting.

3) A nice feature to use is ‘my favorites’ as you are looking through the hundreds of designs.You will loose track and eyes begin to gloss over.Time for a break.

 

 

“Stringed Noel Christmas” by Minted

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Deals to  be had.

4)Always wait for a sale. As I mentioned in Part I of this Holiday Post series, if you start early enough (before the end of November for sure) you can do this and it is highly worth it. Some times it might be free shipping or a significant percentage off.

5)Some sites will send you an email once they see you have a project underway and offer you a discount if you finish your project by a certain date.

6)If your card arrives and it is incorrect (this has happened to me) don’t hesitate to ask for not only free reprints, but perhaps a photo in addition. May or may not happen, but always worth asking.

Card by Pear Tree

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Note: Card prices listed below are not necessarily for the cards I have shown on this page. Please, please use my site as a launching pad for your own research into pricing as I don’t guarantee any of the prices or promos (they change frequently). I have tried my best to give you a summary of  information I found but  no doubt I may have missed something.

* you will want to do the math to see which of the deals is cheaper as some times you cannot use both codes on the same purchase.

And, of course, after all your hard work there comes the anticipated arrival of your cards!  All ready to send off to family and friends.

 

Nothing like receiving that box with your cards! This lovely package from Minted.ca

So, what card company do you use?
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Much Ado About Somethin

Our Three Peas

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  2. Mrs.AOK

    What a great list!!
    I love mail. I love cards. I love pictures. And I LOVE paper!
    My husband doesn’t get my love of paper and cards especially since I’m a self-proclaimed Eco-Nerd but I just love a handwritten note and sending cards for everything under-the-sun.
    This summer I saw a box of beautiful Christmas cards at Goodwill for .49 cents!! I had to get them– in JUNE.
    I send photo cards to close family and everyone else gets regular {buts still beautiful} cards, because the thought of people throwing my kids away makes me sad…
    XOXO
    Thanks for linking up!

    • Barb

      Hey there, Lovely of you to stop in and share a comment. I love that you bought cards in June (how could you not at that price)! And, a ‘high-five’ to not throwing out the kids pics. I completely agree. Happy Christmas card writing.