Ask me on any ordinary day and I would say I’m unconvinced by Christmas cards, but today I’m going to say (very quietly) that I actually quite like them. My research tells me that they were introduced by Sir Henry Cole in 1846 – a rather fabulous man who also organised The Great Exhibition in 1851 along with Queen Victoria’s husband, Prince Albert. The original card (like the one above) was a very jolly and beautiful drawing - there are some other lovely examples here – which make me wish I’d made more of an effort with mine! 
So why are my cockles so warmed? It is quite possibly because everywhere I look I find a heartwarming and satisfying fact about the humble card. My absolute favourite fact that I have found about Christmas card, is that according to all of the research, we send them because we like to receive them! What I actually like is the difference between how the English and Dutch establish this point:
English: ”Study uncovers the risk to relationship of not sending a Christmas card: 16% of people in the UK have retaliated after not receiving a Christmas card“
Dutch: ”Third of Dutch People Happiest at Christmas: A card in the post boosts Christmas Spirit“
But what of the Dutch tradition? According to the Post office 80% of Dutch people send and average of 36 cards a year and receive 32. So, how am I doing?
Christmas cards sent: 25 (78% that’s not too bad….)
Christmas cards received: 8 (oh dear, I’d better send this blog to EVERYONE I know!!)
Discussion
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