I can’t remember the last time I received a letter in the mail.  Even an older relative of mine who lives overseas, now prefers email to letter writing.

When I was a kid, letters were particularly special to me.  When we moved to London, I had to say goodbye to a lot of good friends.  I know I’m stating the obvious, but think about what it was like in the early 80’s.  No internet.  No texts.  Even long distance calling was very expensive.  Without letters, I was completely cut off from my old friends.   But even letter writing had its limitations.  We were desperate for photos and only had official school pictures to send.  “Did you take lots of pictures on your trip?  Send them to me. I promise I’ll send them back.” 

Postcards were like getting two presents in one.  The letter side would be filled with quick tidbits about a trip, or if they had excellent tiny penmanship then it was almost as good as a full length letter.  The other side had the picture that was chosen just for  you.  These went up on the small bulletin board in my room, and later when I lived on my own, became fridge art.     This one was sent to me from England, with a charming p.s. ” Maybe this will help you learn how to swim.”