#272 - Don't Like Mail Issues

​Pandemic Mail

I've sent more letters and cards in the last 9 months, than I have in years.

I've mailed off some of these goofy old postcards, that my mom used to collect. (but I'm keeping my favorites!)

Tough Cards to Write

As if the pandemic isn't heavy enough, many have lost a loved one this year. I've never written so many condolence cards in one year. Only one has been directly related to Covid, but it feels like they all are. 

It's never easy finding the right words to support someone who has lost a family member. I've struggled over the words and ripped up many notes. ​"May you find strength in love of family and warm embrace of friends." Those words don't work right now.  
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Sweet Surprises

I'm not the only one making use of snail mail, during the pandemic. I got a sweet surprise in the mail in the late fall. My dear friend Margie sent me a handwritten note and some scripture.

Miss Margie is in her nineties. For years, she has been a faithful member of my "Around the Quilt" group of seniors. After I stopped volunteering in March I worried when I could no longer reach her by phone. She used to always pass out little prayer notes to her friends. I grinned bit, when I opened up her pack of prayers!
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Mail Complications

Old fashioned mail has been fun... and frustrating. I've had numerous issues with returned mail! I'll admit, my scattered brain made a couple of addressing errors. 

And there's nothing like pulling up to a mailbox wrapped in caution tape, to make you fret about the safe transport of your mail. This box looked like it had been pried open with a crowbar!

Holiday Cards

So, what about Christmas cards? I've been sending them for about 35 years. I've a good excuse to skip it this year. But more than ever people of 2020 could use a lift in the mail. So, I ordered up photo cards. And then I worried about sending. 

I been overthinking everything this year. I looked at this card and I thought. People are going to judge. Bragging? Too happy? Making light of Covid, when some are suffering? I stressed over it, then decided to send regular cards to a few and photo cards to the others. 

Cards Received

Usually I send about 70 cards. We usually receive about half that in the mail.  Good enough to give us a card or 2 to open each day. This year, I'm judging along with everyone else. I fumed over one long Christmas letter. They  bragged about renovating their vacation home, while entertaining visitors all summer. No Pandemic where they live?

Then we got this one! Made my day! It also helps that this card came from a college friend who shares a whacky sense of humor. No judging on this one. It is maybe my favorite card this year!
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