I have wanted to write more letters by hand for quite a while now. As a kid I use to write to friends, when your a kid it's really exciting to get something in the mail!! Because nothing is ever for you, just stuff addressed to your parents.
I occasionally will hand write something to send to people but it's usually birthday
cards( I like to say a lot). I think the main things that hold me back are;
- not being organized and having supplies/stamps/cards/paper on hand. Then sending out an email or e-card at the last minute.
- not knowing if someone will be able to read my handwriting. I have RA in my hands and wrists so my handwriting is not very neat and clear. Also I prefer to write cursive, it's hard to know if someone can read cursive or not. Guess I need to start asking people and keep a list!
- Loving to include photographs with what I'm writing. Sending through email I can send as many as I like.
- Typing is faster! And I can then keep a copy for myself, this helps me to remember what I wrote about in earlier letters.
- it's "free". I already pay for internet and phone service.
The main reasons I want to start handwriting letters are;
- it's a beautiful
art form. I think it adds beauty and richness to peoples lives.
- I love making handmade cards. I think a handmade, handwritten card means more to people and can be a keepsake if they want.
- I can add in neat little drawings or other art. Or even include a pressed flower, leaf or herb. Or leaf and bark rubbings.
- Rubber stamps!
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loved those as a kid. Fun stickers too.
- You can get really creative and use different papers, inks, colored envelopes, etc.
- it's a way to slow down and become more mindful. I'm really trying to find ways to slow down in my life and handwriting letters is a very grounding practice. A great time to sit down, slow your thoughts and focus on something that is slow paced rather than overstimulating.
While cleaning out an old house that had been in our family for generations we found many old letters. It was interesting to read them and hear about their everyday lives. A handful of the letters were written by one of my female relatives to her family. She lived here in the USA but was traveling around Europe. During her travels WW2 started and she was always keeping one step ahead of the war!