We received so many Christmas cards they were a considerable part of our decorations, hung over venetian blinds, slid between books on the shelf and festooning windows.
Those from distant friends and relatives were packed with long letters on how the family had passed the year. We gathered round as Mum or Dad read them aloud, eagerly catching up on all the news. The few cards we receive today look meagre by comparison. Like homemade gifts, the greatest joy was to receive handcrafted cards from children.
We tried to ring those dearest to us, but it was not easy. Phone lines, especially Christmas eve and morning were jammed. You kept dialling numbers until you succeeded in getting through. To call overseas, via the international exchange, was a greater challenge.
Most overseas parcels were sent by surface mail and the need for early purchases six weeks in advance had to be kept in mind. I recall the difficulty of buying Christmas wrapping paper that far in advance. It’s strange when you think how early stores bring out Christmas paraphernalia now.
Emails were first to begin replacing greeting cards. Sometimes they were personalised but often they were mass addressed. Of course, they were also cheaper. It’s sad to think we take the easy way out. Is it because we don’t really care any more or, are we just lazy cheapskates?
Today it seems a quick post on social media of someone else’s picture and words is considered sufficient to wish family and friends good wishes of the season and the approaching new year.
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