Send Letters, Cards and Surprises
Thirty-two easy ways to send letters, cards and surprises, old-fashioned gifts that cross any distance.
A real card in the post is rare joy. Make someone’s mailbox smile.
29 tips that really help
These ideas come from The Good Life (Robert Waldinger and Marc Schulz), Friends (Robin Dunbar), Platonic (Marisa Franco), and everyday practice. Pick one tip and try it today.
Why paper still works
A card or letter is a physical gift that can be kept and reread. It stands out in a world of messages.
Send one.
Collect addresses
Ask friends for postal addresses. Keep them in your phone.
Ask.
Keep cards and stamps ready
Having supplies makes it easy to act on a warm impulse. Stock up.
Stock up.
Write a few lines
Two or three warm sentences are enough. Handwriting adds charm.
Write.
Mention a memory
Recall a shared moment. It brings smiles.
Recall one.
Add a small flat item
A photo, a pressed flower or a sticker. Tiny extras delight.
Add one.
Send for no reason
Surprise notes mean more than birthday cards. Do it randomly.
Surprise them.
Send parcels for big days
A small gift box for a birthday or tough time. Plan postage.
Plan.
Order a gift online
Send flowers or a treat directly if you are short on time. Add a note.
Order one.
Send postcards from trips
A quick postcard is a charming tradition. Write at the cafe.
Write one.
Keep letters you receive
Keep a box of treasures. Reread them on hard days.
Keep them.
Write back
Reply to cards with a card, a text or a call. Keep the exchange.
Reply.
Script: card line
I miss you and wanted to send a little hug in the post. Say it warmly.
Use it.
Script: memory
I still laugh about our trip to the coast. Say it brightly.
Use it.
Script: surprise
Keep an eye on your post, a small surprise is coming. Say it playfully.
Use it.
Script: thanks
Thank you for your lovely card, it made my day. Say it sincerely.
Use it.
Script: closing
With love and a big hug from far away. Say it gently.
Use it.
Mistake: waiting for an occasion
Random cards are the sweetest, so send now.
Send.
Mistake: writing a very long letter
Short and warm is easier, so keep it brief.
Trim.
Mistake: forgetting postage
Check stamps and rates, so avoid returns.
Check.
Mistake: sending sensitive things in the post
Keep private info safe, so be careful.
Be careful.
Troubleshoot: when you dislike your handwriting
Typed notes and printed photos are fine. The thought counts.
Type it.
Troubleshoot: when you do not have the address
Ask kindly by message or through a mutual friend. Explain the surprise.
Ask.
Troubleshoot: when postage is costly
Send postcards and flat cards. Light and cheap.
Go light.
Troubleshoot: when you live in another country
Allow extra time and check customs for parcels. Keep items simple.
Plan ahead.
Troubleshoot: when you run out of words
Write a favourite quote and your name. Simple works.
Keep it simple.
Drill: send one card this week
Write and post one card to a friend this week. Enjoy it.
Do it.
Drill: make a card kit
Put cards, stamps and a pen in one box. Keep it handy.
Prepare.
Drill: collect five addresses
Collect five friends’ addresses and save them. Use them.
Collect.
Easy things to say
When you are stuck, pick one of these. They work in many everyday friendships.
“Dear Anna, I miss you.”
“Here is a photo from last week.”
“Look in your post for a surprise.”
“Write back when you can.”
“Thanks for your lovely card.”
“With love.”
Your first week
One small action a day. Each day is only a little bigger than the last.
Buy cards
Collect addresses
Write a few lines
Add a small thing
Post it
Send for no reason
Keep theirs
Further reading
- The Good Life (Robert Waldinger and Marc Schulz)
- Friends (Robin Dunbar)
- Platonic (Marisa Franco)
The tips above are written in our own words and are general guidance. The books are suggestions for further reading.
