be happy for this moment.

A handwritten note is like dining by candlelight instead of flicking on the
lights, like making a gift instead of ordering a product,
like taking a walk instead of driving.
Margaret Shepherd

One thing that I really love to do is send cards. In the day of Facebook wall posts, Twitter direct messages and email I think we can all agree that a solid piece of mail, stamped and carefully addressed, from a friend or family member is so appreciated.

I spent 45 minutes in Hallmark yesterday picking out cards for some upcoming birthdays, anniversaries and, of course, Mother's Day. My grandmother used to send so many cards each month. She used to write them all out at the beginning of the month, carefully write the date that it needed to be sent in small print where the stamp goes and file them on her desk. Once the date approached, she'd cover her reminder date with the stamp and send it off.

When she died, my mother said that many people told her that some years the only birthday wish they received was a card from my grandmother. For a few dollars or often just a cute 99 cent card, I love sending cards out whenever I am able.

Beyond greeting cards, I love having stationary on hand especially for thank you notes. I suppose it's ingrained in my head from my mother, "You can't play with that toy until you send a thank you note!" Having cute, personalized notes on hand makes me want to take the time to say thanks in a handwritten note.

I purchase most of my stationary from Shutterfly (including Christmas cards) because they always have a great special going and it allows me to have custom stationary without the fancy paper store prices. I also love their darling invitations and unique photo gifts.

[Plus, if you're a blogger, you can have the chance to get 50 free cards from Shutterfly!]