Well it is that time of the year again, meaning that I have to write and send off loads of Christmas cards. I really hate writing these cards as they seem so impersonal, and does anyone read them anyway? This year I ended up making no less than eighteen, each one a unique variation on the theme, hand-written and full of really meaningful remarks. I am sending them off early because mail to America usually takes at least ten days during the busy holiday season. Do I really have that many family and friends? Not that I mind sending cards to my immediate family, my efforts are certainly well worth it for them. No doubts about that. My problem is that I find cards with nothing more than a signature and/or some printed newsletter in especially bad taste. As if you are receiving a card not out of personal attention, when in fact it is due to nothing less than an automated regurgitation of some address list stowed away in a hidden drawer or coming off of the computer. So in order to practice what I preach, if I send off a card I want to write something personal. That is what I do and that involves alot of extra work. Couldn't I be just like all of the others and sign them off one after the other in quick repetition? Life would be that much easier, but need a challenge to keep me going. Just wanted to send you our warmest wishes for a fantastic holiday season. Hope you have been doing well this year. They say that the year 2003 will be an especially wonderful year. Wishing you lots of good health and happiness. Hoping that your business picks up next year. Let's be sure to keep in touch. Best regards from K. et al. Now tell me if this really is any more personal than a scribbled down signature? Oh well, it is the idea that counts isn't it?