Amazing Paper Grace

I agree totally. If it is not on our phones or digital cameras then the memories are lost. Future generations will not know what their great grandparents, aunts, uncles, etc looked like. Thank goodness for scrapbookers and people that still print out photos!

The cards that my friends make and give me are always cherished! A Facebook or text greeting is always nice and appreciated, but a card is proudly on display and invokes a smile for all!

Enjoy your travels!ReplyCancel

Becca, you are so right about getting a card and how good it makes me feel. I love to make cards and I really, really appreciate all your sharing. I often springboard from your ideas. Thanks and have a wonderful 4th.ReplyCancel

I fear we are a dying breed Becca. I LOVE cards and I know that people like getting my cards but if I didn’t have crafter friends, I probably wouldn’t receive many. I love your long posts by the way!ReplyCancel

I agree totally. My kids are not the least interested in things like my good dishes, silver, crystal, old photos etc. They tell me their lifestyle is different than mine. I believe that as they get older they will regret some of the things that they have let go and can never get back. They soooo love the scrapbooks I’ve made of their children’s lives and save every card I make for them. So perhaps their is hope. I am not against digital, in fact I am an avid digital photographer (and was with film as well). I do not however have a “smart” phone. I have a phone, but don’t feel the need to be in contact with people 24/7 so I use it for emergencies. I also think we have lost the art of speaking with each other, texting has taken over. But… that’s another issue. Becca, your cards are beyond beautiful and if I’m chosen will have a very difficult time choosing one, and will probably keep it for myself. :-) !!!ReplyCancel

Oh, I so agree. It gives me that warm fuzzy feeling inside and very much cherished when I receive a card or a letter in the mail; not often enough tho.
I do so enjoy sending cards and writing letters still to very important people in my life whether far away or near.
Sad to see hand written letters are becoming the thing of the past.
Enjoy your day and have a wonderful and safe 4th of July weekendReplyCancel

I so agree with you Becca. I write letters and send cards. My family is always amazed when they receive something from me, yes, they are e mailers only, they say they don’t have the time. But when I am home, their doing nothing but sitting around watching tv :).ReplyCancel

Becca, certainly I am concerned about the papercrafting industry/community. Just as you say there are pros and cons to technology. In my particular case, I discovered after my father passed that his legacy was preserved by his participations on a forum. Reading and sharing his inputs about things related to his profession, was a delight not only to me but also to his former students and friends. So I treasure that so much! I think my blog will be too a go to place for my son in the future.

I remember when I used to send letters and lately I’ve been planning to send cards around the world to friends and family, but our postal service is so expensive and I couldn’t afford sending that many cards to everyone. So it is really a modern society conflict and evolution that we can do nothing about.

Still I will continue to make cards and hope that this lovely old fashioned hobby doesn’t go extinct.

Hugs! Enjoy your trip.ReplyCancel

I totally agree with your thoughts. Everyone I send cards to loves to get handmade cards. One time I sent my grandson a card that I purchased since I was pressed for time and my daughter said the first thing he said when he opened the card was, “she didn’t make me a card”. I felt so bad. For new people I send cards to I print the following on the left inside of the card:

What’s a Greeting Card?
It’s a little piece of paper
That tells someone how you care,
It can be a ray of sunshine—
It can be a wish or prayer.
It can simply say, “I Love You”
Or just say, “I understand”
It can be a little visit,
Or the clasp of someone’s hand.
It can be a word of comfort
When somebody’s heart is sad,
It can be a smile or chuckle
Making someone’s heart feel glad.
It can keep folks close together
Even though they’re far apart.
It can show someone you’re thankful
From the bottom of your heart,
It can travel any distance
In all kinds of weather, too,
And it has the “magic something”
That some “big things” never do.
Yes, it’s just a piece of paper
And it costs no big amount,
But it proves that old, old saying,
“It’s the little things that count.”

The verse for me says it all in a nutshell.

Thanks Becca for all the sharing you do. I love your work.ReplyCancel

Becca, you gave really hit the nail on the head with this one. I so agree about reaching out & touching someone with a card or a letter. I’m happy just to get an email from a friend or my daughters anymore instead of a text that I can’t print out. I used to send my daughters (who are both married now) little care packages from time to time just because. I would tuck little things I thought they might enjoy like a package of sunflower seeds & put a sticky note on it that said “plant me & watch me grow” … Also put a new package of band-aids in once cuz I heard them say they were always needing one & forgot to buy them, added some cough drops & a couple small packs of tissues cuz I knew they weren’t feeling well & a pair of fuzzy blue socks to keep their feet warm with little sticky notes attached to everything. Over the years I sent many things & it always made their day. I think the last one I sent several years ago had a couple dozen Copics in it & some stamped images & a cute card that said now you can make some to share with others. I even sent a few card bases & a couple sentiment stamps. You’ve certainly made me stop & think about Grandmas Memory box & I’m going to start making & leaving a few more “real pictures” & sending a few more “just because” packages to make someone’s day.
Big hugs, JanieReplyCancel

I still make and send cards and insist that my children at least hand write thank you cards. My daughter has figured out from reactions from friends how much they love the handmade thank you cards, so she continues to make cards now for special occasions. But alas, I feel like I’m fighting a losing battle. Thank you for always providing beautiful examples though!ReplyCancel

I guess we are all products of our generation – but papercrafting is timeless. If I were lucky enough to win on of your cards, it would not be given away – no way! It would have pride of place in my craft room where I would look at it and say ‘how did she tie that bow?’ as it would have to be one with a fabby becca bow on it!

Re hard drives – isn’t it all clouds these days accessed by multiple devices? so dying hard drives shouldn’t be an issue – think that’s the theory anyway! Personally I dont have a cloud as I dont want my data floating around the ether –

But the benefits of technology are wonderful also – this blog is an instance of that – who would of thought technology would be so crucial for a network of card crafters from around the world it seems – this blog is the epitomy of the benefits technology can bring – i.e. communication and information sharing – now where would we be without that?…Doesn’t bear thinking about does it!ReplyCancel

I very rarely comment – though often visit for inspiration as your cards are so beautiful, but had to comment today – as it bothers me that we send so few hand written items these days. I came across a little note from my son only half an hour ago from when he was a small boy – – but I am so glad I have that small part of him still, though it reduced me to tears as I lost him 2 years ago. So the written word is so much more important than we think – –
I am just as guilty of loving digital as anyone though – so sometimes think – gosh you have no room to talk!! I do print my pictures though – especially now!
Thank you for blogging and sharing as you do – many times in the last 2 years your cards have made me smile and get through the day.ReplyCancel

I couldn’t agree with you more. I have boxes of cards I have received from people that are taking up precious “stash” space, but I would not get rid of them for the world. They can go in the dumpster when I’m gone, but for now, I love the fact that those people cared enough to make the extra effort it takes to send a card.ReplyCancel

Like you, I am concerned about the loss of written word. My children have been doing things like writing thank you notes from the time they could, and it always astonishes the family members with children their ages – now 17 and 18, whose children have never done such a thing in their lives.

Old fashioned things like that…and good manners…and courtesy…seem to have been forgotten by a generation. One of my slogans for my card business is, “Sometimes, you have to have paper!”

Ok, off the soapbox now, and I love this card! Yup, I peeked!

Thanks, Becca.ReplyCancel

Hi Becca,
Good Morning. I’m in total agreement with you.
The lost art of the written word. I still love getting
mail. To think someone actually took the time to
remember me. My aunt who is almost 80. Loves
the written word. I send her something every week.
When she joins her girlfriends for their monthly
lunch. She takes all the cards and notes to share.
The written word is so importantly vital in our digital
New York Mintue kind of world. As I’m writing this. I
just got some”Written Word” delivered!! Oh I’m a
happy camper!! Thanks!!ReplyCancel

Couldn’t resist – I had to jump over to the Waltzing Mouse site to see the whole card! It is lively as usual! I have the perfect friend in mind to make it for too! Thanks again for sharing your talents with us, Becca!ReplyCancel

I too agree that the written word is falling by the wayside. I’m so glad that both do our daughters have kept up what I made them do as girls–send handwritten thank you notes for gifts they received. They’re in their 20’s and still write them out. I’ve been making scrapbooks for them both so that Thor pics will be tangible, along with the memories and stories the pics tell. I’m so thankful for bloggers, especially you, that have helped to inspire my card making. I’ve only been creating cards for a few years but everyone that gets one is so happy to have it. :). Safe travels to you!ReplyCancel

I have the same concerns. I work on a technological university campus and have noticed that a lot of today’s students can write technical papers, but are not good at writing letters or notes. And it’s been a long while since I received a thoughtful thank you note for a wedding or baby gift. There have been a couple, that I treasure, just as I treasure every hand made card I receive. They go in a keepsake box just as the precious things made by my kids when they were small.

I love technology and the digital world – my phone, my computer, my Nook – but they will not last forever.ReplyCancel

This is a BEAUTIFUL card/invitation! And so correctly said about how a text or FaceBook status is the new “Norm”. There is nothing like receiving or sending a beautiful card to someone who you are thinking of. I admire your work. You are very talented! This one couldn;t be more perfect!ReplyCancel

I so appreciate your inspiring words and cards. I spend hours agonizing over card designs/implementation for special events….my husband always complains when my things need to go in ‘flat rate boxes’. Recently one of my family members was visiting another (both out of town) when she spotted a card I had made that the recipient had shadowbox framed. Wow what an honor….both that my work was recognized and that it was appreciated enough that it deserved framing and a spot on the wall.

If I was to receive one of your cards I would never pass it on …. I appreciate every one I ever get – particularly hand made (there are very few of them).ReplyCancel

The other day our 92 year old neighbor sent us a card just to say thanks for taking her to the grocery store. I thought to myself after reading your blog today that sending cards has become a lost art, but when I get a card from our neighbor saying thanks for something, it makes me smile. Years from now when she is gone, I will be able to look back at her cards and remember her smile and all the love she had for us. I also found some cards that I sent to my mom and dad and some that they had sent to me. I look at these and remember how much love they had for me and the fun of picking out a card just for them. They are gone now but just to have a card with their signature bring back so many memories. So if my 92 year old neighbor can still send cards so can I. I promise to follow her footsteps to make people smile. I might not send one for every little thing but I will remember the major events in our family. Now off to go but some Forever Stamps!ReplyCancel

I always feel that my generation (the Baby Boomers) have the best of everything in life. We grew up with the exposure to ideas and styles of the 50’s & 60’s and have witnessed the technical boom from the 70’s till today. I have taught my grandchildren to make and send thank you and seasonal cards to family members along with their emails and texting. It is up to us to make sure that the art of writing letters and sending cards to friends and family does not become a ‘lost art’.ReplyCancel

I so agree with what you said. I still do send cards and hope the recipient enjoys receiving them.ReplyCancel

Becca,
Gorgeous card, my favorite color too.

Okay, here we go…I have to say Amen to your “rant.” I too am concerned about our youths and their detached digital world. I have several nieces and nephews, and when we gather at my parent’s home for a celebration, they are all with cell in hand thumbing something to someone, or on a game. What happened to playing games at a family celebration? The other thing I notice, and bothers me to no end, is their diminishing skills in spelling and speaking, case in point…the other day my niece said to me, “BRB,” and began to walk away, needless to say I stopped her in her tracks. I told her I was neither on a cell, nor on Facebook, so she needed to use the appropriate words with me…at all times…now who’s ranting? My point is, we are becoming detached from humanity, and it saddens me. We call for service and we get a robotic customer service representative…press number whatever to get to whatever, and it takes forever to speak to a human being, and longer if you want to speak to someone in this country. I enjoy technology…a wee bit geeky at work, but personally, I do not own a cell, I send cards, handmade of course, still have a landline, a regular Canon A1, and an old fashion tv. When I send e-mails, they are long hand, no alphabetic cryptology. Okay, I’m done ranting…please forgive me all. I would just like the human touch back, a real human being on the other end of the customer service call, and the full attention of the human being I am having whatever meal with. Technology is great, but it is taking away the human touch, which we all desperately need.ReplyCancel

Becca, I, too, love papercrafting and the art of writing. During the last few weeks, while in my hometown, I had to go through many boxes and came upon old articles, handwritten notes, cards and other paper keepsakes. These finds were so special to me! You are right about the beauty and longevity of actual paper. I will treasure the little notes and handmade cards that I found. Your card is very beautiful. Many blessings to you and yours~ReplyCancel

I agree with you! I still send cards but seldom receive them. I am most likely to get an email or facebook message! I’m surprised Hallmark stays in business lolReplyCancel

Becca you made a good point. I love the convience of the electronic devices and I love to make cards, although mine can’t hold a candle to yours, I know that the people I give cards to appreciate it. I must say I like the convience of having my phone handy so when my granddaughter smiles I can capture it. When my children was small I never seemed to have my camera around. So know I’ll have pictures to put in a scrapbook for her when she grows up.

I love your cards.ReplyCancel

I agree with all your comments, there is nothing nicer than to have written memories.
My mother passed away not long ago and due to illness for the last two years she was not the mother I knew. We were always best friends but when she got ill with paranoia she didn’t realize what I was trying to do for was to help her. Getting to the point without the cards she gave to me and now I love to browse through them and remember the good times and the lovely sentiments she conveyed to me in the cards.
Without them the negative times with my mother would be what I now remember.
PS I just love your cards, you are so talented.ReplyCancel

Love the cards you make! So nice your daughter appreciates the cards you make her. : )ReplyCancel

I agree with you about the written word, and also about the spoken word. A couple of weeks ago my DH and I went out for breakfast. There was two couples and each of them was doodling with their cell phones. They weren’t even talking to each other. Our youth is losing spelling skills (what little they had), communications skills and using the written word. I think technology is wonderful, but not to the exclusion of face to face.ReplyCancel

Hello Becca
I read, and agreed with you!
My daughter in Australia does Facebook, and I do email, so if I get a reply I’m privileged!
I still send written cards, and letters, in the hope that someone will take the hint, but in this changing world I feel like I’m in the minority.
Handwriting was a lesson when I was at school and something to be proud of……….
still must move on with the times, Becca!
We can’t change it but must embrace it !
Take care
Love the card
Love MargReplyCancel

I agree I had to write a thank you note to my Grandmother, when she sent me anything. I use to write letters in all of my Christmas cards, but now I just mail them. Now it seems the people in the room can’t even talk to each other. The youngest and his wife come to visit and they are constantly texting each other or their friends.ReplyCancel

I would love one of your cards and they are works of are to cherish forever, I would frame it. I print out everything digital I get, never want to lose a picture or file . But I always save them to flash drives or CD’s.

Have a Happy 4th of July and enjoy your travels.ReplyCancel

I agree with you 100%. That is one of the reasons i’m a card maker. I completely enjoy it, but it also makes me stay in touch with the written/stamped word. At the very least I sign my name! Thank you for sharing your wonderful talent and insights with us. You are a dear sweet person.ReplyCancel

No one ever believes that I prefer making cards and getting handwritten letters rather than email. I don’t own a cell phone. Can’t be bothered to be on the phone while I am out of the phone. But nowadays, the “written” word has taken on new meaning because children are no longer taught cursive writing in school. The administration figures because everything is computerized, cursive writing is no longer needed. So they are “educating” a bunch of dummies who will never be able to read a historic document, and they can not sign their name to a check or contract. It is a pathetic age.ReplyCancel

This card is so soft sending a lovely invitation to get together. Beats a phone call any day. The comment made about going through a grandmothers box of keepsakes from one of this current generation, finding nothing, is a chilling reminder that true communication involves face to face meetings. Much of the rest is really fluff and compulsive. It takes a time investment to build relationships. I really do love my text phone as it does keep me somewhat connected to distant relatives, so there is some good in it all…we just need to remember not to substitute one for the other. Thanks for sharing this beautiful card creation, Becca. We appreciate it.ReplyCancel

Hi Becca. I very much agree with you. We will always have our memories but the written word will nudge our thoughts and make us remember things that we just clean forget. I recently lost my hard drive, and as so many people do say ‘oh I must back them pictures up’ and I never got round to up dating it, and lost all my Paris memories! If I am lucky enough to win, my Mum will be the recipient, as she absolutely loves hand made cards. I wish your daughter and Bailey all the best in their new home. Hugs Kim xReplyCancel

I certainly agree with you. I love to send (or give) cards and it is even better to receive one that someone chose just for me! Thanks for the chance to win one of your beautiful cards.ReplyCancel

Because I have come to fear the lost art of communicating on a personal basis with family, I have begun making mini albums and cards for family members. This way there is no need to haul out large albums filled with pictures – most of which only mean something to the album creator. Cards containing a picture or two from last year’s birthday, a small album filled with personal recollectios and pictures of Grandma and Grandpa, and small amounts of special family events. Every Christmas I give every family a small album with a current family picture of everyone. It’s fun to look back at the “babies” that are now in school – or as two are now five! I am thankful that God has given me the talent to do this and the blessings of people like you who share their talents with others. Bless you and a big Thank You.ReplyCancel

Hi Becca,

You are so right this generation just don’t send cards only know how to text or e-mail or phone, you can’t keep those things. I love getting and sending cards to family and friends, they tell me they keep them.I am thankful I have the talent to make the cards to send to them.
I don’t comment much, but love all the lovely cards you create.
Take care and have a very happy 4th.ReplyCancel

Good evening Becca,
It’s 7.43 pm in the UK, on a lovely calm sunny evening.
Your card (which I had to look at before reading your blog!) is perfect, but then again they always are.
I am in my 70’s and my daughter and son-in-law got me my first laptop for Christmas just gone, so I’m very much a newby and cannot attach things, add photographs or anything else, but I do enjoy seeing the different card blogs. So in that respect technology is an advantage.
I’m a great card maker and have been crafting in one form or another for over 65 years. My granddaughters love to get into my “making room” and they make cards at the drop of a hat, or draw pictures, or scrap book and they are only 8 and 10.
I agree with everything you say about correspondence, but I’m showing them the enjoyment they, and the recipients, get when sending out their little missives.
At the moment the youngest is studying the Victorians at school and I always supply that class with various Victorian memorabilia including a book which was presented to my grandfather at Sunday School in 1875. The dedication on the flyleaf of which is written in the most beautiful copper plate writing. My how times have changed.
I think you will see from the comments the other ladies have also made that we all agree with you on the subject of communication)!
Enjoy your travels, don’t get too tired, and please keep on giving us these fabulous ideas.
Love xxReplyCancel

I agree wholeheartedly with you, Becca. I’m a librarian by trade (retired now) and by nature and I support archiving and do heritage albums as much as possible. One of my favorite pleasures is looking through old cards that my Mother sent me. She wrote little poems in them!ReplyCancel

I totally agree with everything you said Becca, it is a shame, how noone seems to send even a small note for birthdays anymore, but just send the two lines in an e-mail these days. I remember, when my mum died 8 years ago, and I helped my dad sort things out, I found all the old letters, I wrote home, when I went on vacations, and she had kept all of them, it was pretty amazing to find, and took me down a very long trip of Memory LAne, that´s for sure, but I´m also afraid, that my grandkids wount ever get to try that, as I know my own daughter and daughter in law don´t care about these things at all, so I´m pretty sure, that when I´m gone, all will just be tossed out, and then it´ll be all over. Quite sad actually to think about. I too have every little card and drawings my kids and my grandkids have ever made for me, and treasure them all.
A wonderful card too you showed at Waltzingmouses blog, sooo beautiful.ReplyCancel

So true! Was just thinking this the other day when reminiscing about the letter exchange between my maternal grandparents during the war. These days, if communication isn’t instant, it doesn’t seem to happen. I wonder if any of my descendants will treasure thespecial letters and cards as I do!
Hugs
Anne (UK) xReplyCancel

Add me to the “Becca Written Word Club”! I am rather new to card making. I have always been a crafter of some sort or other but I have only been making and sending cards to my young great nieces and nephews (ages 1 yr to 12yr olds) for the past 2 years now. (As well as other family members.) I missed sending them cards for one holiday because I was ill. My niece called me because the children missed my cards so much and wanted to know when I’d get better so they could get their cards. My cards are the only mail they receive and they run to the mailbox every day weeks before a major holiday looking for my cards to arrive. They squeal with delight when there is mail from their great aunt! That makes me feel so special! I get a handmade thank you back from them with little hand drawn pictures and squibbles that I just adore and keep in a special box to look at when I feel down. My husband loves to look at them also.
My cards are nowhere as georgous as yours Becca, but you so inspire me! I thank you for your generosity and beautiful words! I don’t know that I could part with one of your cards. It would hold a place of major honor in my house!ReplyCancel

Becca – I totally agree with you about the written word. *Most* people do like getting cards made especially made for them. But I know a lot of people don’t write notes anymore either. So… I am making small stationery gifts this year for Christmas. Some people won’t use them, but the gift will come with a promise that if all the notecards get used, I’ll make more!ReplyCancel

I enjoyed your post today and look forward to seeing the full reveal of today’s snippet. Enjoy your trip.

p.s. I too worry about losing my pictures–i keep them on the SD cards with copies on a USB stick and my computer.ReplyCancel

I feel the same as you… it’s sad to see the passing of the written word. You can’t wrap a ribbon around e-mails and keep them in the cedar chest. I have several letters from my grandma who passed nearly 20 years ago. Perhaps my children will read them someday. and that’s something you can’t do in the digital world. I also secretly wish I could write in the fashion of the Civil War era. it was so, so eloquent.ReplyCancel

All I can say is you are spot on. I think of all the comments so far everyone agrees with what you said. I think we need to pass it along to this new generation about this loss. Your card was so beautiful and what a beautiful way to get together with a friend.

Juanita from RockvilleReplyCancel

I feel the same way but I have to say that I’m as guilty as the next person about relying on the digital world to communicate. I LOVE when I collect my mail and I get a pastel envelope because I know it’s a card. I do send cards and letters the postal way for the milestones like birthdays, graduations and deaths, but I do most of my communicating through facebook and email. I know. Pitiful.ReplyCancel

Hi Becca, Oh My Gosh! You really have started something here! What an outpouring! I heartily concur. There is nothing nicer than a hand written letter, or a handcrafted card. Technology is wonderful, but our era had charm, elegance, sincerity and respect. Now… on another theme, but much the same…… I have a Kindle, which I love. I can carry a library on holiday with no ecxess baggage because of books………. but, it sure does not beat the feel of a hard backed book or paperback….turning the pages and leaving your inspirational bookmark where you left off. Sigh……. I will join your campaign with pleasure. Hope you are having a great vacation. Thanks again for sharing yet another lovely card.ReplyCancel

Since I love all your cards, and follow all your posts – you should pick me (hehehe). Continue to do what you do, I love all the inspiration you give me.ReplyCancel

Love your blog today. There is nothing like receiving cards or notes in the mail. I still send thank you notes and letters to family and friends. I send each niece and nephew a card every month doesn’t matter what occasion. I’ve been doing it since they were 2. They always know the card is from me as their name on the envelope is decorated. Now as they are getting older (6-9) they are sending me thank you notes and cards they are making and decorating the envelopes too. It’s so fun and I love how excited they get when they get the mail.ReplyCancel

Nobody even sends thank you notes anymore!!!ReplyCancel

I just Looooove your Cards they are STUNNING! How right you are I know my friends don’t care about the present its the card they want and they all keep them. Well written. Enjoy your week!ReplyCancel

I totally agree with you. I wish so much that people would get back to sending cards. When my husband’s father died, we found some cards he sent home when he was in the war. They are just really a treasure now.ReplyCancel

That to me is the whole point of creating & sending my handmade cards. They are personalised & have taken time to create – each one with a bit of ‘me’ too. Each one was made with love & hopefully each one is treasured by the recipient in some way. I hope that even if they do not keep the card I have sent them, then they will fully appreciate the thought & sentiment with which it was sent.ReplyCancel

I agree Becca. I have so many photos on my hard drive, but occasionally my husband backs them up onto a portable hard drive. I do not have the time to scrapbook them all but I recently made a couple of photobooks. I plan to do this more as they are quicker than paper scrapping but are still fun and inexpensive. I love a card in the mail so I continue to make them for as many friends as possible, there is nothing like the real thing or a real book to curl up in bed with!ReplyCancel

Becca: I agree with you for my sister always ask why do you send cards or letters when you can text, Facebook or call. My reply is and always will be the need to communicate with others without the electronics of today. We have lost our ability to communicate or express ourselves in writing. Our children of today will sit hours texting and when asked a question reply or not , but texting continues.
Thank you for bring to the forefront of conversation and allowing others to start and think, “Am I guilty of this? Realize to give of ones self in writing is an enjoyed to others. Ladies you make beautiful cards share them with a kind thought of phrase to let them know, I love You, Thank You, Thinking of You or Just Because and see the surprise and joy them give. May God BlessReplyCancel

Well this subject sure did resonate with your blog followers!! Over a hundred responses…now if you could just get everyone to send you a card instead of leaving you a note, you would have a miracle!! I miss written letters but I do make my cards. Kids today don’t even get taught handwriting or spelling because of spell check and computers! What really drives me nuts is some of the text abbreviations. Oh you did get me started!!! Love your cards and find them to be very inspirational. God bless you.ReplyCancel

Hi Becca,
This post really hit home with me. I travel alot and continue to get prints of my trip pictures but so many do not anymore! It is sad to think that future generations will not have the pictures and news articles that I treasure from my grand parents.

Thank you for this thought-provoking post!ReplyCancel

Hi Becca,
Love your cards as always. I am really with you when you talk about your grandmothers “treasure box”. My mum passed away 30 years ago. I still have her cards, the ones she kept from family mainly. I cannot bear to throw them out so I recycle them to my daughters and granddaughters and write in them that they came from their great grandmother and great,great grandmother. They are really touched by it. I don’t know what will happen to them but they are in their hands to do what they will.ReplyCancel

I’m with you Becca regarding texting or e-mailing a message vs. sending a card, whether it was one that you spent time picking out at a store or handmade (99% of the cards that I send to family and friends are handmade), nothing can really replace sending a card. My kids (39 and 42), look forward to getting cards from me on various occasions because they know that I’ve put a lot of time and work into making something specifically for them, and when I make cards for my closest friends, I always try to make a card that I know will bring a smile to their face trying to use their favorite colors and images. The cards that you make are always “top notch” and I can’t imagine anyone not being excited when they receive a card with your return address on it. I would be honored to win one of your homemade cards. Keep up the fantastic work Becca!ReplyCancel

Oh Becca, how very true ………. I agree with EVERYTHING you’ve said. I don’t have any kids but I always get very positive feedback from the people that I’ve made cards for. They always say “my dad was over the moon and asked who made this card” or “she went round and showed your card to everyone” and things like that. It really gives you a warm glow round the heart.
WHICH IS WHY WE’LL KEEP CRAFTING AND MAKING CARDS – So sad to open a “keepsake box” with nothing in it.
I’m born a German and by and large my brothers/sister don’t really appreciate cards like we do in England (and obviously America) , so that’s sad. My Dutch friends, however, love receiving them and always send me something they made themselves. That is great.
Going through a rough time at the moment and creating beauty from just plain cardstock etc is a great comfort to me – it draws my focus away from the horrible reality whilst I’m doing that.
And you can take some credit for that, as can Sue Wilson. Your cards have inspired me to try and attain that level of creativity and improve all the time. So thank you again for that.
Hugs, Rose (in Chester, UK)ReplyCancel

Oh how I agree. I love to send cards. So often I’ll even get a call or Email saying thank you; not necessarily something you get when sending digital messages. I find making cards is my escape and relaxation technique. But when I open up the mailbox to find a card or even a note with a photo inside, it is something special. I love the digital age but still nostalgic for the old days. It is amazing how someone can get so much just from giving.ReplyCancel

HI Becca, no, this was not a rant. It was a realistic observation about our “Instant” society. As an English teacher, I am concerned about the loss of the written word. Writing is so important, and receiving a written note is so encouraging and enjoyable. Thanks for all your beautiful creations; everyone who receives one of your cards must know how much you truly care.ReplyCancel

I’m with you … I really miss written correspondence and even phone calls! I wonder if pencils will become obsolete someday? Everyone just seems to be emailing and texting all of the time now so it doesn’t seem like you can have an in-depth conversation with anyone … so sad … everything is so impersonal nowadays. I would really love to win one of your cards, but unfortunately, I could never part with it and I would have to ask you to sign it! I’m crossing my fingers.ReplyCancel

Hi Becca, Love all your cards. You are truly one talented lady and it is so appreciated that you share your beautiful items with all of us. I too am a card sender and have always been. I started making mine several years ago and love sending them to all my friends and relatives. It is such a satisfying feeling when they “email” and tell you they love them. Getting a card lets you put it on display and enjoy it for a long time. Thanks for all your beautiful pieces of art.ReplyCancel

I agree the “written Thank You/ letter” is becoming a lost art. I insisted our two sons write a Thank You for every gift they received while growing up. They could not play with the item or cash the check until the note was written. My boss commented during the regions conference call that he must be on my “naughty list” as I sent him a purchased card! LOL He told all the managers that I make the most beautiful cards and had sent him one I had purchased! He WAS on my naughty list, but I actually forgot to make one for him.

A friend of mine was battling cancer (which she lost) so I was making her a card a week. I have two other friends who are still fighting their cancer fight, so I continue making cards (one female and one male–his is the hardest to design) weekly for them.

Thank you for the inspiration I get from all your beautiful cards. I sometimes lose my mojo and after pursing your blog, I get new ideas and I off again. Since I have now retired, I have more time to create. I had to organize my room so I would know what I have and what I MUST HAVE!

Any person who receives a card from you is truly a lucky person. I haven’t seen anything you have made that I wouldn’t love to receive. Keep up the beautiful job.ReplyCancel

I so agree with you! I don’t there is nothing like having both the visual and touch sensory of a beautifully crafted handmade card that someone has created just for you.ReplyCancel

Well said Becca, I couldn’t agree more! You my new friend, have inspired me to bless others by creating and sending comforting, encouraging, loving, words. I’m also blessed through the process. Thank YOU!!!ReplyCancel

Couldn’t agree with you more Becca!
It is easy to get sucked into the digital world , but it is not the same as something you can hold and admire and always have..
XxxRuthReplyCancel

Hi Becca, I was newly referred to your website and am truly amazed by all your beautiful creations. I totally am in agreement with you on the lost of the written word. I grew up hearing that a picture is worth a thousand words. And thus physical cards and actual pictures are some what mystical because they capture moments in time as they take you back to precious precious moments. For those of us that are nostalgic, though we embrace modern digital technology we know it is not a substitute for cards and pictures.

I’ve only started crafting at the beginning of this year and still consider myself new at crafting. It is truly a blessing to find a website such as yours which provides so much guidance and inspiration. So I take this opportunity to thank you and say that I will most definitely continue to follow.

Thanks
ReddReplyCancel

I just went back & read the story of Bailey. Made me cry. What a wonderful story, and how good you are to your daughter.

Written word… when I send my cards to my son in college, he only opens them to see if I included $. I did manage to talk him into not throwing them away anymore; now he saves them to return to me so I can reuse or donate them. Perhaps it’s a matter of maturity.ReplyCancel

As card makers of course we enjoy sending our creations to others. It is so gratifying to know that they are appreciated. It is also wonderful to receive a handcrafted card. I would love to receive one of your masterpieces! Thanks for the opportunity. Happy 4th.ReplyCancel

OMG – I can so agree – I love getting a card in the mail and I kjnow that my relatives and friends LOVE getting a homemade card from me.
Your designs are absolutely beautiful.ReplyCancel

oh Becca ! you speak out,what I am thinking for times: so many people are wondering to get a “real” Card,handwritten and crafted also. And not only when there are special days, just to say : I think of you.- I like your work so much,it gives me ideas and I like to watch a talented artist like you ! please,go on with your work,, hugs ErniReplyCancel

You are spot-on about the written word. I started making my own greeting cards a few years ago and my grandkids look forward to them – they even ask before they open the envelope if I made it. My best friend has kept all of them I’ve given her over the years, too. They are special because I’ve given a part of me in each one…even the simple ones are appreciated. Thanks for being my inspiration.ReplyCancel

I agree with your whole heartedly about everything being digital. I would rather talk to someone than get a text but some of my family prefers the later. Makes me sad. I too love it when my son takes the time to pick out a card for Mothers day or my birthday. Even if they are silly it still means he took that time just for me.
I am not too sure if my cards are still in the hands of those I sent them too or if they have been thrown away. Hoping they still have them.ReplyCancel

I enjoy sending cards and receiving them! They are so much more special than a text or an email!ReplyCancel

Thank you for the “Written Word” article. I totally agree with you. I love sending and getting cards and snail mail letters. I have noticed with the new generation they do not send thank you notes for the gifts we send. It is either a verbal thank you or an e-mail. I also find that I am not getting a personal e-mail from family and friends, just a forward. I have a large group of stamping friends, and I look forward to receiving their cards and notes. I am blessed. I also feel blessed to find your blog. Your cards are so beautiful. You are an inspiration. Not only your cards, but I love reading your inspiring words. Thank you for your wonderful blog.

Margie F.ReplyCancel

I totally agree with you–and all who have commented! I love to make & receive cards and letters. However, my time is so limited that sometimes I just don’t get to it and the “occasion” passes. My thoughts are in the right place but time works against me! However, I am told that makes the cards I DO send that much more special, as the recipient knows how hard it is to find crafting time! I have a friend who just moved out of state. One if the items I included in her going away gift was a tablet, envelopes, stamps and my address mailing labels. She has used them to send me a couple of hand written letters—-which are SO special to me!ReplyCancel

Always love your inspiration, Becca. I will always be a paper person as I love to hold and look at cards, books, etc. My husband and I met thru the internet and I have stored away a copy of every email he sent me and every email I sent him. I love to reread these even aftter 10 years of marriage. TFSReplyCancel

Dear Becca,
Happy 4th July. (sorry I’m a bit late, but better late than never!) xxReplyCancel

Becca, I have spent a couple hours on your site today and have learned so much. I have been trying to learn paper crafting and card making and scrapbooking for a while now but I am ill and my brain is not retaining what I learn. But every time I come to your site I get so inspired to not give up and to keep trying. I am just not very good at paper crafts I guess. I make glorious stick pins and hat pins and sell them on eBay but for some reason my clumsy hands have trouble with the paper. I have bought so many thing to try and make me a crafter like you, but it hasn’t helped. ( : I have beautiful craft room (a gift from my hubby) and it still doesn’t help. But what has really helped me is you. I have followed you for a long time. But I watched you make a card today on a Becca bits and saw you struggle just a little with assembling it and it helped me so much! I know someday I will make something as beautiful as you did in that video , but for now I will continue to “Play” in my lovely craft room with my grandkids and cut out Spellbinders and punch out punchies and make card number one million for their mommy. (She loves all.) I have faith and know that I am doing just what God would have me do. I will not give up! but will continue to watch you and other crafters until I can get it right! Thanks so much for all the time you put into this. It must be a big sacrifice sometimes! But we really need you . Spellbinders needs you too! We could never figure out how to use all those little pieces if you hadn’t taught us! JoannaReplyCancel

I’m with you, Becca. I am so thrilled to get a home made card from my crafting friends. The homemade ones are the best and I cherish them!ReplyCancel

I love making cards and sending them to friends and family. Everyone always loves getting them and some say they save them all. I have my grand daughter making cards too. She started when she was young stamping with me and now that she is in collage she still makes her cards foe friends and family.ReplyCancel

Such beautiful and inspiring words, Becca. I love having a wander around your blog and such beautiful creations too. I can’t remember a time when I haven’t bought something new after seeing all the inspiration on your blog. One day I will capture the beauty!ReplyCancel

I would be thrilled to receive one of your masterpieces however, I don’t think I’d be able to part with it!…;-)ReplyCancel

Hi Becca
You are so right about the new generation losing the art of the written out on paper word. They’ve even forgotten how to talk to someone face to face. It’s either text or phone! My girls wanted me to get text on my phone but I told them I love hearing their voices, so they call every night and talk. I have a 14 year old grandson whom I made a special birthday card for his birthday and I got a thrill when he called to exclaim his pleasure at receiving something I made especially for him and he keeps it on the mantel in the livingroom at home. It can surprise you that they do really love and appreciate a card made with love for them! They all want special cards now and I love the challenge!
Hugs, KarenReplyCancel

I, too, could not agree more. I love sending cards to family and friend for “just because reasons” I also love to receive them. I lovingly store them away as cherished keepsakes. I think a good example of how digital might steal precious memories if we aren’t careful, is an old cell phone I carry around. I have some precious pictures of my two grandsons on it. I realize I have to protect that phone until I get those pictures off and guess what, store in another digital fashion. Ultimately, I want to print them out and store them them for my family.ReplyCancel

Hi Becca, Ditto, I see technology every day, and use it, but sending cards, letters and reading books must never be ‘a thing of the past’. I love receiving cards and letters, and I adore the smell and feel of books, I must admit that I buy a book, then buy the Kindle version aswell to read, they are easier for travelling with and are not as heavy, but I still love the smell of a book. My Daughter and my Grand-daughters, have their phones stuck to their hands, they only correspond with texts, it not only affects their spelling but also their ability to communicate orally with people. Technology is brilliant, but can never take away communication and interaction with people. Photos are also brilliant to be kept in a file on computer, but if they are printed off and ‘scrapbooked’ they can be a brilliant set of ‘memories’ for future generations.
Take care, and Thank You for the chance to win one of your beautiful creations.
Lots of love from Patricia xxReplyCancel

Pretend this is in my handwriting –

Dear Becca,

Today is filled with southwest sunshine, spicy jalapeños, and fresh summer corn and squash. I wish you were here to share a glass of lemonade.

It is always a please to read your sweet writing (blog). Keep in touch and know you are loved and appreciated.

Your friends always,
Tammie

P.S. Write soon!ReplyCancel

Dear Becca
So true I love cards I keep all mine my daughter left this year on her oe and I sent her a card for her birthday she just loved it she sent me an ecard for mine
I so do love hand written cards and letters I treasure the ones I have especially as they from very special people who have gone on
Thank you you are always such an inspiration
I am always touched by your blog and grateful for folks like you
Love love your work and especially that you are connected with our maker
Take care blessingsReplyCancel

Hi Becca so hard to be a mother,we have to let go too soon.But we know we will always be needed and that can be good or bad ,as mostly they need cash but l try to write letters to mine telling them how much l miss them ,even my daughter that l see everday. So l do try hugs lindaReplyCancel

I recently had this same conversation with my mother. When I began making cards last year, (you were the person I learned from, you may even remember a few of my posts and e-mails) my mother and daughter were the recipients of my creations. My sisters and sons were also included but to a lesser extent. Yes, they all gush and show their coworkers and friends, but no, no one send a letter or a card back! But my family now expects to receive a card for every type of event!
I don’t mind though – it’s a wonderful reason to go back to my art table and create.ReplyCancel

I agree about the hand written word on cards and scrap booking. I no longer journal w. the computer in scrap booking but hand write for my kids to see it was my writing later on. I have my mother’s written names when my sister was born, (I was 12 y/o) asking us kids what we wanted to name her and I treasure it very much. Also, her reminding us what to do for chores on the farm before she passed on. And I love getting a handwritten letter when my friend who has been a pen pal for 66 yrs. sends something even tho we email frequently. Thank you for alerting us all about what needs to come back.ReplyCancel

Hi Becca, I am keeping you in my thoughts and prayers because you are a strong person and are getting through this “empty nest” time as best as you can. After all, all of us mothers, if we are lucky and we raised our children to be independent, have to face this time. It is HARD!! But you know you want the best for your kids and being independent is the best for them. Especially for girls not to be dependent on men which you have proven to your daughter in spades that is possible (even if it hurts). You take care and stay busy, which I know you are any way.ReplyCancel

You are so right. I think having “hard copies” of things is so important. I try to print out special emails from our children/my husband to keep. I also have special texts they’ve sent me copied and put in my wallet. After all, I never want to lose that text our son sent me a few days before his wedding that said, “Mom, no matter what happens, you’ll always have a special place in my heart.” One of my most treasured possessions is the 900+ letters my parents exchanged during the two years Dad was overseas during WWII.ReplyCancel

Becca…I love to make special cards or write letters for special people and occasions! The written word is personal, especially when it’s a card or letter. The sender has spent time creating or choosing a sentiment that would be just right for the recipient. S/he has actually touched the paper you are receiving. When the card or letter is received, it is valued because someone took time out of their day to consider you. Then, if you’re like me, the card or letter goes in a special place where it will reside and be passed on to generations following.ReplyCancel

I LOVE mail! My mother wrote letters and loved to receive letters. I’m like her. My mother has been gone for 15 years now and the last of my letter writing aunts has passed too. It saddens me. Letters give a real sense of connection. It is too bad that it is a lost art.ReplyCancel

Truer words were never spoken(or written!) I cherish all the cards and letters my MIL sent me over the years. Such a grand and gentle lady. She lived to be 93 and her generation believed in keeping in touch by the written word. I love going to my mail box and looking inside only to find a card or letter. Totally makes my day. If I were to receive one of your beautiful cards, Becca, I would probably swoon. Each and every card is so elegant and beautiful.ReplyCancel

I feel the same way. None of my grandchildren even write long hand – the print! And those cell phones and texting! Wish they would just call and say what they want to say and forget the texting. I dislike to text myself and try to avoid it all I can. It is never easy to lose someone you love and you never, ever get over missing them. My father died in 1966 and my Mom in 1972 and I can still hear their voices and smell my Dad’s “Red Man” chewing tobacco. I miss them so much still. But I am thankful for all the wonderful memories they left me. I know some day we will be together again. Stay strong.ReplyCancel

Good morning Becca, recently one of my granddaughters was seven and had a tea party with family, so I suggested she write her thank you notes, so we did them together. She loved all the embossing ect but when it came to mum giving them out to family it became another thing to do ? I think if it wasn’t our generation pushing the written word it just would die out, so feel free to “rant”.
X Ros HodgkinsReplyCancel

I submitted a comment earlier and thought I even saw it posted. I was going to edit a mistake I made (on geography), but it looks like the post is not there anymore?ReplyCancel

Becca, I love receiving a card as much as I love making/sending one. But, I truly miss written letters. I married at 18 (in 1969) and all we had to communicate was to write letters, as Ma Bell had the monopoly on telephones and it was too expensive to call. I treasured the letters from my friends & I would immediately respond. My husband was in Viet Nam at the time and all we had was “the written word.” Two weeks for a letter to reach him and two weeks to receive one from him. I would RUN to the mailbox each day in hopes of receiving a letter. With email, texting, facebook… it is amazing, but I hear very little from those I use to correspond with… just a note in a Christmas card each year. People are too busy to write. Although, I would LOVE to win your card… I just learned my friend’s mother passed away (my second mom) and I am making a special sympathy card for my friend, but I would also send yours to her. She would truly value such a beautiful card. Sorry to get so long winded!ReplyCancel

Beautiful card.ReplyCancel

Becca: You make the written word so beautiful, and your cards inspire me to continue sending loving words to friends and family who need an unexpected lift. I still re-read letters from my mother. And after she was gone, I found her shoebox full of every letter & postcard I ever sent, so now I can re-read memories of my younger life. Grief never quite leaves us, though time seems to soften the edges. I lost my husband last year and I only wish I had long letters from him to read once in a while. Your art is such a gift for all of us who follow your blog. Blessings.ReplyCancel

I agree with you! I have some friends that have not printed a picture or got one developed in years. I don’t understand why take them if your not going to at least put them in a photo album so people can enjoy. I love to make mini albums and fill them up with pictures. I have started making a mini album as gifts and one of my friends went and got some pictures developed for the first time in 5 years. After that I started making them for gifts more often. This generation is so different than when we came up. Some times it is sad that people stay in touch on FB or through emails rather than picking up the phone and hearing their voice. But so many think nothing of it. Don’t get me wrong, I love my computer, but some people let it take over. I’m talking about family. On the radio this very thing was being discussed and the host admitted the only way he stays in touch with his sister is on FB. That’s just not right!
Keep those beautiful cards coming and one day I hope you’ll start making more video’s. I love to see you in the process of making all those work of art.ReplyCancel