Last week in GEMs we were sharing stories about cards that we have received and ones that we have given. Our theme in January was Words with Wings–cards – in other words.
The one thread that wove through the conversation for me was the way that words sent in a card (whether we make the card or buy it) seem to speak right to the heart.
We all send texts, but it seems that others are like me and keep cards that are particularly meaningful.
I have some special cards that I keep in my bedside table drawer (and others in a box)- and every once in a while, I look through them— beside the artwork, the thoughtful words from cherished friends and family- the handwriting of those who are not here anymore hold particular significance for me. It is a tangible link to the past that I can only access through memory and photographs.
Yes I am particularly referring to my mom, dad and my youngest daughter Ilse.
Recently I was writing an introduction to my work for a wholesale sheet. The lovely woman who was guiding me through this process said – it’s for the people who sell your cards in their shop so that they have a story about you – a story that they can tell.
I don’t know if you do this- but I write and only as I’m reading it do I know what is inside…it is a surprise almost to read it- as though it comes from a different place.
Here’s what I wrote:
Lise-Lotte has always loved making cards – and she still gets a thrill about receiving them in the mail either as a “just because”, or this reminded of me of you and so I thought I would send it, thank you or for the standard yearly celebrations. In fact, she still keeps many cards that friends have sent in a little box and takes them out, on occasion to re-read them and enjoy the artwork.
The first time Lise-Lotte sold her photography cards in a shop was when she was 12 and went down the street to the local shop in Victoria and asked if they would be interested. They were and that began a long relationship of making and selling her photography cards.
When Lise-Lotte lost her youngest daughter suddenly to a brain aneurysm, lovely friends who were giving her space sent cards to convey their love- whether they were across the globe or lived down the street. Once again, she learned how meaningful a simple card with someone’s kind words could be.
Are you a sender of cards? Do you like to make them? Do you send ‘just because’ cards? Valentines cards to friends? Your family? Your partner?
❤️ 💕 ❤️ 💕 ❤️ 💕 ❤️ 💕 ❤️ 💕 ❤️ 💕 ❤️ 💕 ❤️ 💕 ❤️ 💕 ❤️ 💕 ❤️ 💕 ❤️ 💕 ❤️
If you are interested in making some valentines and would like a step-by-step guide to these straightforward cards for you to bring your creativity to– here’s a link to my course where I share 12 different cards plus a few decorations and extras.
I’ve put it on sale for the next few days…
I also have my FREE resource that I created to help you organize a valentine get together with friends. Here is the link. You will get the free resource and also receive my weekly newsletter that comes out on Thursdays where I share thoughts and resources from a creative life delivered to your email inbox.