Christmas cards! Whee!!! This year I was a little frazzled as I put everything together, and I had a couple moments of worry about the cards. Unlike years in the past where things have been a tad more organized and uniform, this year was almost a free-for-all. I did go out and choose papers, but I wasn't just smitten with any one thing in particular, so I have a bit of a hodge podge as far as warm and cool tones, classic rich colors and more "pop" colors. But as I wrapped everything up yesterday I sat them all up together for a look over. Oh my goodness, this is one of the most fun things about card making. You look over your "set" and get to enjoy the thrill of having accomplished something, to get excited over how fun they all look together, to review how your processes and techniques have changed since the last batch, to get excited over something that has worked, or make a mental note about something that needs to be done differently next time. Secretly I love this moment. I love looking at all the variations of a common theme-each one unique but carrying some similar traits. I love the colors and textures and designs. I love seeing each one and hand picking which card goes to which person. There is something so personal and intimate about having poured a little bit of yourself into the creative process and getting to turn around and offer it to someone else.
So, as I prepare to send my little cards into the hands of those I care about, I am humbled again to offer up something so small and simple, yet unique and special. And as much as I love making the cards, I love knowing that cards are things, by their very nature, things to be shared. Different than scrapbooking, different from drawings, photos, or so many other creative mediums, cards have an ultimate purpose of being given away. To you!
Merry Christmas!
