I finally mailed the graduation announcements.  I didn’t even purchase enough to save one for me.  I tried really hard to keep the list to a minimum.  Sure, it’s a big deal, but sending a graduation announcement is asking for money or a gift.  I hate to do that to all my friends.  I’ll wait until the kids are getting married.  At least, at that point, the recipients know I’ll be giving them alcohol in return.

I did not send a wallet sized picture with the announcement.

Why?  Because I think it’s just a waste of money and resources.  Who keeps pictures of other people’s kids?  I don’t.  I love pictures.  My house is littered with picture frames.  Of my own kids.  I can safely say this will never change.  I love my extended family, but I don’t frame pics of nieces or other family members.  Heck, they barely make the refrigerator.  I feel bad throwing them away, but in reality that’s what happens.  I don’t have anywhere to keep them, and I don’t need another drawer filled with junk.  Not that pictures of family members are junk, but you know what I mean.

So I got a call asking for the graduation picture.  They were just curious, hadn’t seen Squirt in awhile.  (I directed them to the blog.)  I asked another friend if I committed a sin in announcement etiquette.  She assured me I was fine.  In fact, she said she had just tossed her nephew’s picture in the garbage because she certainly wasn’t going to frame a wallet sized picture.  She felt slightly bad, but it is what it is.  Unless you’re a hoarder, people don’t keep crap like announcements and pictures anymore.

I’ll order a picture for my parents, Lance’s parents and Chelsea.  I’ll post a picture on my blog, but that’s it.  If anyone else wants a photo, I’ll send them an email with the jpeg so they can print it themselves.

It sounds like I may be going digital for next year’s Christmas Card.

Speaking of cards…I’m on a homemade card kick.  Or something written on my personalized stationery.  Actually, you’re lucky if you get a card of any sort from me anymore.  If I know I’m going to see you, the kids will make a card.  If I don’t see you, then it’s nothing.  I’m sure to have offended someone the past few years by not sending cards, but I think after a certain amount of time, it’s okay.  Hallmark can only say the same thing so many different ways.  After a point, it all flows together.  I think my heartfelt “I love you” over the phone should be good.  As with anything, this is just my opinion.