After consistently sending cards out for forty years, I broke my streak in 2025. I imagined that letting go of this task would be liberating. It was not. I’m big on tradition and I value the opportunity to connect with friends and family across the miles. With no annual holiday card, what will I add to my 2025 entry in my Christmas memory book?
As I opened each greeting I received in the mail, I was delighted to hear from those I love. I enjoyed seeing beautiful pictures and reading sweet sentiments and learning about exciting life events. Then the guilt hit me. I wanted to reciprocate with my own news and warm greeting. I also wanted to share a favorite picture and year in review that I can tuck away in my memory book to document the year and preserve memories to revisit in the future.
If I had mailed Christmas cards, I would have included a picture of Olaf. I would share what a joy it is to have a puppy – my first one ever. I would tell everyone that he is the smartest and most handsome boy ever and that we can’t imagine life without him. I would also share his instagram page @olaf432025.
If I had mailed Christmas cards, I would have included a brief letter to share highlights from my year, like training to be a Stephen Leader and losing 30 pounds. I would share how fun it was for Joe and I to spend a week in Cabo Mexico and to attend Shelbi and Jakes wedding in the DC area in May. Olaf is a great traveler and he joined us for a long weekend in Florida and a trip to Indiana, Iowa and Illinois to celebrate Christmas with Jack, Krisitin, Hudson and Ellie and Annika and Nic.
Our greatest blessing from 2025 was welcoming Erik, Megan Bauer and Murphy to Georgia. Our house and our hearts are full.
In 2026 Julie will be taking trips to Finland, Amsterdam, and Ecuador. I will also be busy training 5 more Stephen Ministers for Creekside church and planning our February 2027 wedding.
2026 might be the year Joe finishes his novel, The Chemistry Connection, a young adult mystery thriller. Some of his family were amused to receive his AI generated book called Football, Family and Forgotten texts. Joe will continue substitute teaching at Pinecrest academy, a job that brings him much joy.
We also look forward to a May wedding in Hilton Head and a June trip to Orlando.
If I had sent Christmas cards, I would extend my sincere hope that my friends are enjoying good health and finding joy in celebrating the reason for this beautiful season.
I really regret not sending cards. There is always next year.
That was cool! I struggle either way my Christmas letter every year. As soon as I send it out to be printed with narrative and pics on the back, I always remember something I forgot!! When I thought about not doing them, several people just happened to comment how they live getting my letter. I just need to write down events throughout the year. Merry Christmas and Hapoy New Year!!