When is it Too Late to Send Your Christmas Cards?

Thinking back, the latest I ever received a Christmas Card was around the first of the New Year. That however, was generally combined with a New Year's wish. I didn't mind getting the card at all. It told me that even though this person was really busy this season, they still thought of me. While that was nice, thinking about this situation, "Would I send a Christmas Card after Christmas?", the answer is no. Here's some advice to those of you who are debating sending out those time consuming, yet great communication tools and wish senders; Christmas Cards.

If it's after Christmas, and you see those cards still sitting there waiting to go into the mail, there are a few things you can do. The first and easiest that comes to mind is - Pitch 'em. What's the point in sending it now? The holiday is over. Once the addressee does receive the card, it's eventually going that direction anyway, right? Of course, you did spend the time filling them out, putting them in envelopes, and addressing them. If you think you can get away with sending them as a New Year's Wish for a great year, or if the card contains meaningful, non-store bought messages, throw them in the mail. If it's after the New Year, forget it. Here's a thought to all you procrastinators- if the cards are not dated in any way, save them for next year. This way, your work is done way in advance. You could even send them mid-year and make it a fun way to celebrate Christmas in July. Don't want to save themt? Open them back up and use the front of the card to make some really cool crafts or ornaments. If you feel as though you really want to reach out to family and friends, but have waited until after Christmas, sit down at the computer, or pull out some stationary and compose a letter. This way, you still communicate with the people you care about around the holiday's. Another bonus to writing an after Christmas letter is that you can surprise your friends and family with your thoughtfulness and a welcomed letter as they're receiving those after Christmas bills, while not bogging down the United States Postal Service at their busiest time of year, Christmas.

Christmas can be an already stressful time of year without having to worry about Christmas Cards. Maybe this Christmas, you'll just cut out the card sending all together and make a quick phone call to friends and family, or maybe you'll send that after Christmas letter. Still not sure what the best policy is for sending your card? Use your best judgment, but ask yourself this question: Would I want to receive a Christmas Card after Christmas? If the answer is no, then you decide how you want to take care of the card, just don't send it. Merry Christmas.