1. InCoWriMo / LetterMo – A Month-Long Letter Writing Extravaganza

International Correspondence Writing Month (InCoWriMo) and LetterMo take center stage every February, inviting participants to embark on a delightful challenge: writing and sending a letter every day throughout the month. The goal is simple – to revive the joy of personal connections through the art of letter writing. Participants share their experiences, creative approaches, and the joy of receiving handwritten letters in return. It’s a global celebration that transcends borders.

2. National Letter Writing Month: Pen Your Heart in April

April comes alive with the annual National Letter Writing Month, also known as the Write On Campaign. The initiative encourages individuals to take a moment each day during April to write letters, notes, or cards. The campaign aims to inspire people to connect on a personal level, fostering relationships and creating lasting memories through the written word. It’s a perfect opportunity to dust off the stationery, embrace creativity, and send letters that convey genuine sentiments.

3. World Letter Writing Day: A Global Celebration of Letters

Every September 1st, people around the world come together to celebrate the simple yet profound act of writing letters. World Letter Writing Day is a reminder of the power of handwritten communication. On this day, individuals take a moment to express their thoughts, share stories, or reconnect with friends and family through the art of letter writing. It’s a day that encourages reflection, gratitude, and the joy of making someone’s day through a handwritten letter.

4. Postcard Day – Sending Smiles Across the Miles

While not exclusively focused on letters, Postcard Day on October 1st is a delightful celebration that aligns with the spirit of correspondence. Postcrossing, a platform dedicated to postcard exchanges, organizes meetups worldwide where enthusiasts come together to exchange postcards and celebrate the joy of connecting with others. It’s a testament to the fact that even a small piece of cardstock can carry immense sentimental value.

Embracing the Art of Letter-Writing Events

These events, each unique in their approach, share a common goal – to encourage people to slow down, put pen to paper, and rediscover the magic of handwritten communication. Whether you’re participating in a month-long challenge, dedicating April to letter writing, celebrating World Letter Writing Day, or engaging in postcard exchanges, these events offer a chance to create meaningful connections in a digital world.

Join the Movement:

As we navigate through the digital age, letter-writing events serve as a reminder that the beauty of handwritten letters endures. Consider participating in these events, explore local letter-writing societies, and connect with like-minded individuals who share a passion for the art of letters. Embrace the joy of receiving a tangible piece of someone’s thoughts and let your own words travel across the miles, carrying the warmth of genuine connection.

In a world that moves swiftly, let’s savor the moments – one letter at a time.

The post Celebrating the Art of Letters: A Guide to Letter Writing Events Around the World appeared first on Arizona Correspondence Society.

The backdrop to Mr. ZIP’s creation was a nation experiencing profound demographic shifts and increasing urbanization. The United States was entering an era of rapid population growth and expanding metropolitan areas. With this growth came a dramatic increase in mail volume, straining the postal system’s ability to efficiently process and deliver mail. To address this challenge, the USPS introduced ZIP codes in July 1963. ZIP, which stands for “Zone Improvement Plan,” was a novel system designed to streamline the sorting and delivery of mail. It divided the country into zones, with each zone represented by a numerical code. The introduction of ZIP codes promised to significantly improve mail accuracy and speed.

To promote this revolutionary postal code system and educate the public about its advantages, the USPS enlisted the artistic talents of Howard Wilcox, a renowned graphic designer. Wilcox created Mr. ZIP, a charming cartoon mail carrier with a distinctive postal worker’s hat and the letters “ZIP” prominently emblazoned on his chest. This lovable character became the face of ZIP codes.  Mr. ZIP took center stage in a comprehensive nationwide marketing campaign aimed at encouraging the use of ZIP codes. Posters, pamphlets, advertisements, and promotional materials featured the character, helping to drive home the importance of these new codes in mail delivery.

Mr. ZIP was not just a mascot; he was a postal educator. He appeared in instructional materials that provided guidance on how to use ZIP codes accurately. The campaign’s slogan, “Mail moves the country—ZIP codes move the mail,” underscored the role of ZIP codes in enhancing mail processing and reducing errors.  Mr. ZIP’s campaign was an unqualified success. It effectively raised awareness about the benefits of ZIP codes and encouraged their adoption by the American public. Over time, the use of ZIP codes became standard practice in addressing mail. Mr. ZIP had transformed from a marketing tool to a symbol of postal modernization.

The story of Mr. ZIP is more than just the history of a cartoon character; it’s a tale of innovation and adaptation in the face of a changing world. Mr. ZIP helped bridge the gap between an antiquated postal system and a rapidly evolving society. His enduring legacy lies not only in the use of ZIP codes, which remain essential in the modern postal service, but also in his role as a charming ambassador who made postal modernization accessible and even fun.

In an age when efficiency and accuracy are paramount in mail delivery, we owe a debt of gratitude to Mr. ZIP, the mailman who taught us all how to “ZIP” our letters and packages, forever transforming the way we send and receive mail in the United States.

The post The Evolution of Mr. ZIP: A Pioneering Postal Ambassador appeared first on Arizona Correspondence Society.

Ancient Beginnings

The practice of sealing documents with wax dates back over 4,000 years, with early evidence found in the ancient civilizations of Mesopotamia and Egypt. These early seals, typically made from clay or other malleable materials, were engraved with intricate designs and pressed into wet clay tablets to authenticate documents and ownership.

Medieval Europe: The Golden Age of Wax Seals

Wax seals truly came into their own during medieval Europe, a period often referred to as the “Golden Age of Wax Seals.” This era saw the widespread use of wax seals by nobility, clergy, and royalty. The reasons for their popularity were multifold:

1. **Authentication**: In an age when forgery was a constant concern, wax seals provided an unmistakable mark of authenticity. The seal’s unique design, often bearing the owner’s crest or coat of arms, left an indelible impression, signaling the document’s legitimacy.

2. **Secrecy**: Wax seals were not only tools of authentication but also instruments of secrecy. They ensured that confidential messages remained confidential until they reached their intended recipient.

3. **Status and Identity**: Wax seals served as symbols of rank and identity. Nobles and aristocrats would use elaborate and intricate seals to assert their social status and lineage.

4. **Personal Connection**: Wax seals, with their tactile nature, allowed individuals to physically connect with their documents. Affixing one’s seal to a letter or legal document was a deeply personal act, imbuing the message with a sense of character and intention.

5. **Artistry**: Wax seals were also appreciated for their artistic value. Craftsmen and artisans created intricate and beautiful seal designs, often reflecting the personality or interests of the seal’s owner.

Notable Historical Use

Throughout history, wax seals have left their mark on countless significant documents, contributing to the preservation of history and culture:

1. **Magna Carta (1215)**: One of the most iconic documents in legal history, the Magna Carta bore the wax seals of King John and his barons, symbolizing their agreement to limit the monarch’s powers and establish the rule of law.

2. **Declaration of Independence (1776)**: The founding fathers of the United States used wax seals to authenticate their signatures on this seminal document, signifying their commitment to independence.

3. **Treaty of Versailles (1919)**: The end of World War I and the shaping of post-war Europe were marked by wax seals on the Treaty of Versailles, a document that would have far-reaching consequences for the world.

The Legacy of Wax Seals

While modern technology has largely replaced wax seals for practical purposes, their legacy endures. Wax seals continue to captivate us with their timeless beauty and historic resonance. They serve as a reminder of the individuals and events that have shaped our world and hold a special place in our collective memory.  Today, wax seals are experiencing a revival as a symbol of elegance and personal touch in various aspects of modern life, from wedding invitations and special occasions to artistic expression and branding. They offer a tangible connection to our past, a bridge between the ancient world and our fast-paced digital age.

In conclusion, wax seals have left an indelible mark on history, symbolizing authenticity, identity, and artistic expression. Their continued presence in contemporary culture serves as a testament to their enduring appeal and their capacity to evoke a sense of history and elegance in our lives. Wax seals are not just relics of the past; they are timeless symbols of human ingenuity and creativity.

The post Wax Seals: Preserving History and Signifying Authenticity appeared first on Arizona Correspondence Society.

1. Cognitive Development

Cursive writing is more than just a style of penmanship; it’s a cognitive exercise that engages multiple brain functions simultaneously. When children learn cursive, they enhance their fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and spatial awareness. This engagement of various brain regions can contribute to improved brain development and overall cognitive abilities.

2. Better Handwriting

While it’s true that not all adults use cursive regularly, having legible and well-formed handwriting is still important. Learning cursive helps children develop a sense of discipline and patience in perfecting their handwriting. Even in today’s digital world, the ability to write neatly can have practical applications, such as when filling out forms or signing documents.

3. Historical and Cultural Appreciation

Cursive writing has historical and cultural significance. It connects us to our past and helps us understand the way people communicated in earlier times. When children learn cursive, they can read historical documents, letters, and manuscripts in their original form, fostering a deeper appreciation for history and culture.

4. Enhanced Reading Skills

Studies have shown that learning cursive can improve a child’s reading skills. Cursive letters are often more distinguishable from one another than their print counterparts, making it easier for children to recognize and differentiate letters when reading. This can be especially beneficial for children with reading difficulties or dyslexia.

5. Personal Expression

Cursive writing allows for personal expression and creativity in handwriting. Children can develop their unique style and flair when writing in cursive, which can be a source of pride and self-expression. The artistry of cursive can turn writing into a more enjoyable and personalized experience.

6. Cultural Legacy

Cursive writing is a part of our cultural legacy. It’s a skill passed down through generations, connecting us to our ancestors and their way of life. By teaching children cursive, we preserve this cultural heritage and ensure that it continues to be a part of our shared history.

7. Focus and Patience

Learning cursive requires patience and attention to detail. Children need to concentrate on forming each letter correctly, connecting them fluidly, and maintaining consistent spacing. This practice in focus and patience can translate into better concentration and perseverance in other areas of their education and life.

8. Creative and Artistic Outlet

Cursive writing provides children with an opportunity to see writing as a creative and artistic outlet. They can experiment with different styles, add flourishes, and develop a unique signature. This encourages creativity and self-expression.

While it’s true that technology has transformed the way we communicate, the art of cursive writing still holds relevance in the modern world. Teaching children cursive is not about resisting progress; it’s about preserving a valuable skill that enhances cognitive development, promotes cultural appreciation, and fosters personal expression. It’s a timeless art that connects generations and allows children to appreciate the beauty of the written word in a unique way. So, let’s continue to embrace cursive writing as an enduring and valuable part of our children’s education.

The post The Enduring Value of Cursive Writing for Children appeared first on Arizona Correspondence Society.

**The Power of Pen and Paper**

In an era dominated by instant messaging and social media, the act of sitting down with pen and paper may seem archaic, but it holds a certain magic. Letter writing is a deliberate and mindful practice that encourages us to slow down, reflect, and connect on a profound level. It allows us to convey our thoughts, emotions, and stories in a way that is personal and deeply meaningful.

**Benefits of Mindful Letter Writing**

1. **Enhanced Emotional Expression**: When we write letters, we have the time and space to express our feelings with depth and sincerity. This can be therapeutic, helping us process our emotions and connect with our inner selves.

2. **Deepened Relationships**: Receiving a heartfelt letter can be a profoundly moving experience. It shows the recipient that you have taken the time to think about them and craft a message with care. This can strengthen relationships and create lasting memories.

3. **Mindfulness and Presence**: Writing a letter demands our full attention. We become fully present in the act of writing, allowing us to disconnect from distractions and focus on the recipient and our message.

4. **Time Capsules**: Letters have the power to capture moments in time. They serve as time capsules that allow us to revisit our thoughts and feelings from the past, offering a unique perspective on our personal growth and evolution.

**How to Embrace Mindful Letter Writing**

1. **Choose Your Recipient**: Start by selecting someone you wish to connect with on a deeper level. It could be a friend, family member, or even yourself.

2. **Set the Scene**: Find a quiet, comfortable space where you can write without interruptions. Consider lighting a candle or playing soft music to create a serene atmosphere.

3. **Reflect and Plan**: Take a few moments to reflect on what you want to convey in your letter. Consider your intentions and the emotions you wish to express.

4. **Write from the Heart**: Let your emotions flow onto the paper. Be sincere and authentic in your words. Don’t worry about grammar or perfection; the essence of the message is what matters most.

5. **Seal It with Love**: After you’ve poured your heart into the letter, seal it in an envelope. You can choose to decorate the envelope or add a personal touch to make it special.

6. **Send or Save**: You can either send the letter to its recipient or choose to save it as a keepsake for yourself. Re-reading your own heartfelt letters can be a powerful act of self-compassion.

In our digital age, the mindful practice of letter writing offers a precious opportunity to connect with our own emotions and the hearts of others. It encourages us to slow down, express ourselves deeply, and cherish the art of communication. Whether you send a letter to a loved one or write one for your own reflection, letter writing is a timeless practice that can enrich your life and the lives of those who receive your heartfelt words. So, pick up your pen, put your thoughts on paper, and experience the transformative power of mindful letter writing.

The post The Art of Mindful Letter Writing: Connecting Hearts and Minds appeared first on Arizona Correspondence Society.

1. “The Jolly Postman” by Janet Ahlberg: This interactive book takes children on a journey as the Jolly Postman delivers letters to familiar fairytale characters. Each page contains envelopes with real letters and postcards that children can open and read.
2. “Dear Mr. Blueberry” by Simon James: In this charming story, a young girl named Emily writes letters to Mr. Blueberry, believing she has discovered a whale in her backyard pond. Through their correspondence, they explore friendship, imagination, and the natural world.
3. “The Day the Crayons Quit” by Drew Daywalt, illustrated by Oliver Jeffers: This humorous book presents letters from crayons to their owner, Duncan, expressing their grievances and demands. It’s a delightful story about colors, creativity, and self-expression.
4. “A Letter to Amy” by Ezra Jack Keats: Peter wants to invite his friend Amy to his birthday party, but he’s worried she won’t come. In this heartfelt tale, Peter writes a letter to Amy and goes on an adventure to make sure it reaches her.
5. “The Gardener” by Sarah Stewart, illustrated by David Small: This touching book tells the story of a young girl named Lydia who lives in the city and sends letters to her uncle, who thinks she lives on a farm. Through her letters and gardening, Lydia transforms her urban environment.
6. “The Jolly Postman’s Christmas” by Janet Ahlberg: In this festive sequel to “The Jolly Postman,” children can follow the postman’s delivery of letters and gifts to various storybook characters during the holiday season.
7. “The Day You Begin” by Jacqueline Woodson, illustrated by Rafael López: While not explicitly about letters, this book celebrates the power of connecting with others and finding the courage to share one’s own story. It highlights the beauty of diversity and encourages children to embrace their unique voices.

These books not only entertain children but also encourage their curiosity, imagination, and love for reading and writing letters.

The post Summer Reading for Children – All about Letters and Communication appeared first on Arizona Correspondence Society.

Handwriting a correspondence letter offers several benefits:

1. Personal Touch: Handwritten letters convey a personal touch that digital communication lacks. They show effort and thoughtfulness, making the recipient feel special and valued.
2. Emotional Connection: Handwriting allows you to express your emotions more effectively. The unique style and nuances of your handwriting can convey sincerity, warmth, and authenticity, fostering a deeper emotional connection with the recipient.
3. Memorability: Handwritten letters are memorable. In today’s digital age, receiving a physical letter stands out and leaves a lasting impression. The recipient is more likely to remember and appreciate your message.
4. Attention and Focus: When writing by hand, you tend to be more attentive and focused on the content. It allows you to reflect on your words, resulting in more thoughtful and deliberate communication.
5. Timeless and Intimate: Handwritten letters have a timeless appeal. They evoke a sense of nostalgia and are considered a classic form of communication. Moreover, the private nature of a handwritten letter can create a more intimate connection between the sender and recipient.
6. Tangible Keepsake: Handwritten letters can be cherished as keepsakes. They can be stored, reread, and treasured over time. Unlike digital communication, they hold sentimental value and can be passed down through generations.
7. Unplugged Experience: Writing a letter by hand offers a break from digital devices and screens. It allows you to disconnect from technology and engage in a slower, more mindful form of communication.

While digital communication is convenient and efficient, taking the time to write a handwritten correspondence letter can provide a meaningful and personal experience that enhances relationships and leaves a lasting impression.

The post Handwriting a correspondence letter offers several benefits appeared first on Arizona Correspondence Society.

Children should learn to write a correspondence letter for several reasons:

1. Communication skills: Writing a letter teaches children how to effectively communicate their thoughts and ideas in a structured and organized manner. It helps them develop their writing skills, grammar, and vocabulary.
2. Personal connection: Letter writing promotes a personal and meaningful connection between individuals. It teaches children the value of expressing themselves and sharing their thoughts and feelings in a thoughtful and sincere way.
3. Empathy and understanding: Writing letters encourages children to consider the recipient’s perspective and develop empathy. It helps them understand different viewpoints and practice active listening and responding.
4. Etiquette and formalities: Learning to write a correspondence letter teaches children important etiquette and formalities associated with written communication. They learn about proper greetings, introductions, and sign-offs, as well as addressing envelopes and using correct titles.
5. Historical and cultural significance: Letter writing has played a significant role throughout history and in various cultures. By learning this skill, children gain an appreciation for the historical importance of written correspondence and cultural practices associated with letter writing.
6. Practical life skill: Writing letters is a practical life skill that children can use in various personal and professional contexts. Whether it’s writing thank-you notes, applying for jobs, or maintaining long-distance relationships, the ability to compose a well-crafted letter is valuable.

Overall, learning to write a correspondence letter equips children with essential communication skills, fosters personal connections, and cultivates empathy, while also providing them with a practical tool for future endeavors.

The post Children should learn to write a correspondence letter now for future endeavors appeared first on Arizona Correspondence Society.

Hello everyone, I am Karen Sanson (for those of you who do not know me) and I live in Tucson, Arizona.

Back in April 2022 at our Correspondence meeting, the question came up from Renee to everyone “What kind of glue would you recommend to bond two sheets of lightweight paper together?”

That got me thinking –  I would use glue sticks most of the time for paper when I would mail something. I also would use tape – usually double-sided tape. But glue sticks are easy and inexpensive. I bought a bunch at Goodwill and they weren’t dried out. I thought they worked great – until ….

I worked on a project during the summer here in Tucson. We moved in July – just 4 miles and I wanted to send Just Moved postcards to our Christmas database (of 200). Postcards are less expensive, of course, so I got to work. I ordered mostly ‘blank’ postcards. Then added cut out pictures of desert scenes including references to The University of Arizona (where I work). On the correspondence side, I added our name and new address. Then I would hand write the address to the recipient.

Here is an example of a postcard I sent to Peggy:

As you can see, using glue sticks on the postcard didn’t work. Everything fell off and I’m sure the post office is not too happy with me. I also had mailed back to me many of these postcards. I guess the post office confused my address with the recipient. Weird. My project was an epic fail. Living in the desert has its limitations such as mailing chocolate or gummy bears in the summer months and apparently using glue stick on a postcard.

Glue Sticks:

• Triangular Glue. I purchased this at Cutie . I love this glue stick – does not roll off the table and using on the corners of paper is easy.
• Officemate letter stick. Works great but probably the one I used on my postcard project.
• Staples Large Glue stick – Lisa purchased this for me. Terrific product. East to use.
• Elmer’s Scented Glue Stick. I think Renee gave this to me. Watermelon scent. Smells great but whose bright idea was it to add scent to glue? You watched me open and smell. Who wouldn’t do that?

Leila mentioned using Cooked Rice. A few grains mashed into the paper.

Instructions making paste glue:

1. Add 1/2 cup of flour and a pinch of salt to a bowl.
2. Pour 1/3 cup of water into the bowl.
3. Mix the ingredients well until it has a smooth, paste-like consistency. …
4. Your no-cook glue is complete!
5. Have fun using your no-cook homemade glue.

French paste:

• I think Renee mentioned this, but I found jewelry instead of glue.

Coccoina Adhesive Paste:

I found this on a Gourmet Pens Blog

• Safe if ingested: non-toxic and solvent-free.

• Not messy to apply because brush makes application uniform, consistent, and precise
• you can get right to the edges without glue blobbing out when you press down.
• Photographs do not warp/bubble.
• Ingredients sourced in Europe – Italian.
• Dries quickly and if glue hardens, it can be melted.

• Short Life span of 12 months.
• Smells like almond. 

Elmer’s Disappearing Purple Spray Adhesive:

• Non-toxic, solvent-free, extra-strong and formulated for mounting items to nearly any surface, including plastics.

Promarx Multi-Purpose Spray Glue:

• This all-purpose spray adhesive creates a strong, flexible, and wrinkle-free bond.
• Acid-free and has extra strength, making it ideal for various projects – not just paper.

Tombow Aqua Mono Liquid Glue:

• This glue works well for paper and all non-paper embellishments and is super strong.
• Has two sides – pen like and wide
• Dries tacky, so be careful not to use more than you need to avoid it seeping out around the edges.

Glue Dots:

• Strong and easy to use and work especially well for non-paper embellishments such as wax seals.

Tape Runner:

• Elmer’s Craft Bond Permanent Tape Runner (refill) (oops, I purchased the refill – not the tape runner)
• Tape runners are super quick and easy to use. They come in Permanent Archival Bond and General Purpose options but can be expensive depending on the brand.

Scotch Permanent Tape Runner

• The adhesive applies precisely and smoothly. This is my favorite at this point.

Mod Podge:

• Puzzle saver. I used this on a puzzle after I used a sticky back product for puzzles that did not work.
• Mod Podge is glue and a sealer – and there are varnishes, etc. in the formula that don’t exist in craft glues. The bonding properties of Mod Podge are way stronger than that of (most) craft or school glues. A bit messy and a paint brush is needed.

Beacon Zip Dry Paper Art Glue:

• Affordable and easy way to assemble lots of paper products in a short time.
• Easily rub off any excess with your fingers if it seeps out around the edge without damaging the paper.
• Glue is smelly, reminiscent of Rubber Cement.

Scor Tape:

• Double-sided adhesive tape that is incredibly sticky, heat resistant and acid free.
• Paper backed which means you can tear it with your thumb & finger.
• Being paper, the backing is eco-friendly.

Prices of some glue

GLUING SMALL PIECES OF PAPER (PERMANENT)

There are many glues on the market that are advertised as “paper crafting glue.”

The post March Letter Social- Karen Sanson’s Glue Notes appeared first on Arizona Correspondence Society.

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, you may be contemplating what you will do for that special person. While most people think… special dinner, flowers, candy- maybe Valentine’s card that you can slap your signature on. Ho-hum. That may be all well and good, but we at the Arizona Correspondence Society think you should consider writing a Love Letter. Writing a love letter is a romantic and personal way to express feelings for their significant other. It allows the writer to put their emotions into words and to express their love in a thoughtful and heartfelt way. Some people have a difficult time expressing those emotions on paper. Some need a little guidance, and some need a shove (a friendly shove- we are totally against violence). Writing a love letter is challenging, even for a well-season epistler. We understand that you may need a little help. We are perfect for the job. For a limited time, we are offering to ghost-write your love letter to that special person. We will pen the letter to the paper and mail it via the Loveland Post Office in Colorado. Your letter will get the love treatment with fine cotton paper and envelope, a wax seal, and a few embellishments that would even make a postman take a second look. The Loveland Post Office will give a special postmark on the Love Stamp. How much? $25 for the love treatment with a Feb 2nd deadline. If you want a scripted letter to transfer it in your penmanship- that’s only $15 and has a Feb 13th deadline. Profits from this project will go towards our Children Letter Socials, where children learn the art of letter writing.

Let’s do it—-

To order your letter, email [email protected] with your contact information and best time to reach you.  Our lead epistler will contact you to get details and make payment arrangements.

Five really good reasons to write a love letter:

The post Raising a Little Love through Love Letters appeared first on Arizona Correspondence Society.