#13 - This year's Christmas Card

It’s that time of year again: writing Christmas cards to spread some holiday cheer by mail. Every year, the same dilemma. How do you come up with something original? “Happy Holidays” feels overused, and “Ho ho ho” is so standard now that even Santa doesn’t laugh anymore. Lily picks up her pen, taps it against her chin, and mutters, “There must be something better…” 

Even Google doesn’t help much. “May your days be merry and bright” and “Let it snow” are everywhere. Not exactly unique. Her daughter Ella walks in and sees her mom sighing. “Why not: ‘Ho ho… nope, not Santa, just me!’” she jokes. But Lily isn’t convinced.

As she pours her cup of coffee, inspiration strikes. “Oh deer, it’s Christmas,” she says proudly. “Yeah, or… Sleigh what, it’s Christmas!” jokes Ella. Great! These phrases feel lighthearted, warm, and just the right touch of humor that everyone will love. Lily alternates between the phrases, adding “Happy Holidays! From Ben, Lily, Ella, Jules, Jack, and Charlie” underneath.

She mails the cards and waits—secretly a bit nervous—for reactions. And they come two days later. Her sister texts: “What a great card! Did you come up with that yourself? Genius!” Her friend Sophie sends a photo of the card proudly displayed on her mantel. Even the grumpy neighbor across the street, not usually a fan of humor, gives a thumbs-up and smiles: “Very clever card.”

Phew! So, the Christmas card is a hit. “Next year will be tough to top this,” she thinks. But for now, she grabs a gingerbread cookie and smiles. Christmas is wonderful, isn’t it?

Curious to see what Lily is sending this year? Check it out here.