Sending holiday cards does not have to be a tedious chore. I remember when I was little, my mom would tape all the pretty cards around a special doorframe in our house and I would love to see where they all came from. The pretty trees, stars, snowmen made it fun to see what the mail carrier would bring that day.

There is nothing more special than the smile created at the mailbox from a friend or loved one when they receive your card. It should be something that we want to do in showing those we care about that we are thinking of them, not something we feel obligated to do just because its that time of year again.

To make sure that your holiday card writing doesnt become a chore starts with some very basic planning.

Lets face it; December is a very busy month, so the time to plan your holiday card writing can be as early as September depending on your schedule. The first thing to decide is on the list. Who do you really want to send cards to? Family, friends, close acquaintances? There are a number of Christmas card organizers available, but making your list can be as simple as going through your address book and writing the names and addresses on a plain sheet of paper.

Once you have your list together, and you know who you will be sending them to, its time to buy holiday cards. If you didnt purchase any on sale from last year, thats o.k. just make a note that youll do some after-Christmas shopping this year. Holiday cards can be found for as much as 70% off the pre-Christmas price, so this will be a great time to stock up for next year. Keep an extra box on hand just in case there are a few last minute cards to sent.

Of course, you will also need stamps. Now that you know the number of recipients on your card list, you will know how many stamps to buy. Each year, the USPS presents a few different holiday designs to choose from. Buying them early will assure that you will be able to get the ones you like.

The next thing to ask yourself is when you want to mail your cards. This way, you can plan a day where you can take a couple of hours to sit down and write out and address your cards. I know this can be challenging, so why not do it as early as possible? Theres absolutely nothing wrong with addressing holiday cards as early as October so that they are ready for you to mail.

Pick a day or an evening when its quiet in the house. Make your favorite beverage, put on some relaxing music or even Christmas music to gather your thoughts. Its time to gather what you need, your card list, cards, and stamps, return address labels, envelope stickers and your favorite pen.

Wear something comfortable like your favorite pajamas, grab your favorite beverage and just have a nice, relaxing time. Youll get your cards and signed and ready to go and youll enjoy a nice quiet evening at the same time.

There is nothing more special than sending a card personally signed by you to bring a smile to those you care about. It can be fun and relaxing if you plan ahead and get organized.

Copyright 2005 Patty Gale