Holidays Archives - American Greetings Blog

Honoring another side of Mother’s Day

May 4 By American Greetings Leave a Comment

Bereaved Mother's Day - May 8th - clasped hands offering support

How do we celebrate Mother’s Day? Brunches with fresh fruit and quiche and tulip centerpieces. Flowerpots overflowing with begonias to be planted. Ceramic handprint trinkets made for Mama. Cute little photos of cute little faces placed carefully in the center of heart-shaped paintings, kept in a folder to look at years later when the kids are all grown up.

Yet, there’s another side to Mother’s Day that we often overlook: the many women who are unable to have children and those mothers who have lost their children, always much too soon — sometimes before they get to see a first smile or hear a first laugh, other times after they’ve memorized every hair and freckle — but always much too soon.

Diana Stone is the Editor-In-Chief at Still Standing Magazine, an online magazine that focuses on “giving a voice to grief, connecting hearts around the world who have similar life experiences” and “becoming a resource for friends, family and medical professionals, to know how to support someone enduring child loss and/or infertility.”

Diana is an amazingly strong mother. She has two daughters, ages 8 and 2. She also has three sons, Preston, Julian and Kaden, who all passed away after they were born in 2012 and 2013.

She remembers being a little girl in church on Mother’s Day and watching as women stood to receive a flower for each child they had.

“As a girl, I had no idea the pain this must have caused some of the women sitting or who stood only to receive the number of flowers of their living children,” says Diana.

In 2010, people around the world began to recognize these women with their own special day. Bereaved Mother’s Day takes place each year on the Sunday before traditional Mother’s Day. On this day, we honor the women who have experienced the heartbreak of losing a child, or infertility – and who may be experiencing Mother’s Day grief.

But while society has made a lot of progress with recognition of bereaved parents, many people still don’t know how to handle others’ grief. It can feel uncomfortable, and there’s a sense of uncertainty about what to say or do for those who are grieving. Unfortunately, that uncertainty often leads to silence or avoidance where there could be compassion and empathy.

“Bereaved Mother’s Day holds a special place in many of our hearts because it is a day set aside to honor many women who may have never been publicly called ‘Mother,’ who always see child(ren) missing as their others play, and who feel someone is gone in a packed room when no one else may even know,” says Diana. “As a mother with only two of my five children living, it’s always been an important day for me because it gives me a reason to share about my other children. I know we shouldn’t ‘need’ a reason, but many of us do. We aren’t able to post updates or share their funny stories, so this is one day set aside for the memories we so very much wish we could still be making with them.”

People who are aware of Bereaved Mother’s Day might not know what to say or how they can show up for their loved ones who experience this day.

How can we show them that we care? How can we recognize their loss and acknowledge what they are going through in a sensitive and meaningful way?

What we say and do matters most in our relationships with women who experience this day. The best thing you can do for them is to show them how much you care by communicating it to them.

“First, if someone is reading this and [thinks], ‘Yes — how do I show this support?’ Thank you. Thank you for wanting to show us you care, because that means so much,” says Diana.

She says it can be as simple as saying, ”I don’t know exactly what to say, but I do want you to know I remember and am thinking of you, especially today.” She stresses that if their child had a name, you should use it.

How else can we show support during this time of intense emotion? You could call them, ask if they would like to talk about it over tea. Send flowers or a card to simply say you’re thinking of them. Offer your time and company.

Bereaved Mother's Day - offering support over a cup of tea

“If you are able to do something, please don’t say, ‘Let me know if I can do something’ — just do it,” says Diana. “Let them know you’ll be dropping off dessert, send them a memory necklace, write them a letter.”

Diana encourages bereaved parents to connect with others who are going through the same thing, so they can also find encouragement and support from those who know what that feels like.

“If you have lost a child, know there are thousands of us out there who know each and every emotion you are walking through,” she says. “Reach out to a community online or in person for support and help. We wish we weren’t part of this, but since we are, most of us just want to make sure no one else ever walks this alone.”

Diana suggests that those who haven’t experienced the loss of a child take this opportunity on Bereaved Mother’s Day to learn how to support those who have. Mamas need to know that friends, family and especially other mamas have their backs — especially when the absolute worst thing possible happens and a child’s life is lost. In those most painful times, and in the lifetime ahead, it means everything for a loving and compassionate community to show up in support of the grieving.

Even if you’re not getting along or you’ve lost touch, try to show up anyway. Imagine how much it could mean to someone to know that even though you don’t talk much anymore, you are thinking of them and their struggle.

“It can be a conversation starter and a healing place with a rocky relationship,” Diana says. “You may be the only person who has asked about their child or said their child’s name in a very long time.”

We all know it’s important to keep our relationships close. And it can mean so much to someone when we express our thoughtful support for them.

“Mother’s Day is a beautiful day and a very hard day all wrapped into one, and I think Bereaved Mother’s Day gently honors the intent while asking our society to simply consider another truth in many lives,” Diana says. “It’s a reminder that a mother may look completely different from someone you see with her hands full of little ones or the grandmother surrounded by grandchildren.“

Remember, honoring someone can be a simple as being brave enough to have a difficult conversation, and showing up for them is any way you can, no matter what. At the end of the day, being there for the people who matter most means everything.

You may even choose to write what you feel down in a simple note they may choose to keep and read whenever they need support. For some ways you can get started, we have invited writers who have talked with so many who have experienced grief and loss to share their insights here.

Read on to see more hearts connecting and helpful insights about the other, less visible sides of Mother’s Day.

See Diana’s story on Still Standing Magazine’s website to learn more about her.

A portrait of Diana Stone, Editor-in-Chief of Standing Still, Bereaved Mother's Day - May 8

Diana Stone is the Editor-in-Chief of Still Standing. We’re so grateful she has shared her story and mission with us.

Bereaved Mother's Day - May 8 - pink roses on a gray hardwood backdrop

Article written by Sophie Franchi. Sophie is a mother, a writer, an editor and a thinker. In 2016, she graduated from The University of Akron, where she earned a BA in English with a minor in Creative Writing. She’s also a bartender at HiHO Brewing Company, where she first developed a love for IPAs. She is the former Managing Editor of The Devil Strip, the alt-monthly arts and culture magazine based Akron, Ohio. She loves Akron with a whole lot of her heart.

7 Easy Tips for Celebrating Galentine’s Day

February 9 By American Greetings Leave a Comment

Galentine's Day

They’re your secret-keepers, your supportive soul sisters, your ride or die: your gal pals that mean the world to you. So naturally, having a celebration devoted to appreciating them for all they do is a fantastic one, and what better way than to have a Galentine’s Day celebration?

What is Galentine’s Day? We’re not even going to touch this one, when Leslie Knope (played by Amy Poehler) of Parks and Recreation fame sums it up perfectly:

It’s only the best day of the year. Every February 13^th, my lady friends and I leave our husbands
and boyfriends at home, and we come and kick it breakfast-style. Ladies celebrating ladies.
It’s like Lilith Fair minus the angst…plus frittatas!

From that moment in 2010, a fictional holiday gave birth to a real-life tradition with an almost fanatic following, with women everywhere declaring that this needed to be a real thing. And why not? What could better than getting together with the women you love and admire to celebrate friendship and gratitude for each other in a fun and meaningful way, complete with (let’s face it) two favorite food groups? Fizzy cocktails and whipped cream (not necessarily in that order).

So whether you’re into brunchin’, lunchin’, or midnight munchin’, we’re hooking you up with some simple tips for paying homage to your squad on Feb 13^th that will definitely deliver all the feels to the girls who run your world.

Your Galentine’s Day party planning checklist

1. Invites —party’s at your place! (Or restaurant, or wherever you and the gals like to hang).Grab some cards and announce to your she-ros that you’re hosting a Galentine’s Day gathering to celebrate female friendship!

2. Gifts for your guests. If you’re thinking of handing out gifts to the gals, check out our gift guide for some fun and thoughtful ideas that will make them feel special.

3. Favors that leave a lasting impression. You can scour Pinterest for hours for tons of fun ideas, but we love the idea of giving a feeling that will never fade. Head to your party supply store for heart-shaped balloons for each of your guests. Before filling with helium, write one thing you love about each guest on a paper heart and fold it up tight. Insert into your balloon (use a funnel and push through with erasure side of a pencil!), fill with helium, and add a ribbon. (Be sure to keep track of whose balloon is whose by using different colored balloons or attaching different colored ribbons. Not only will the balloons add to your décor, but guests can later pop their balloon at home to receive your meaningful message – priceless.

4. Get your groove on. Prep a music playlist about friends, or include songs that have stories behind them that you shared with various ladies in attendance. (You know you have them. Like the time you walked out of the bathroom at the diner with your skirt tucked into your underwear just as “Girl on Fire” came on the radio.)

5. Bring on the bubbly. It’s never too early for champagne (it’s practically the new orange juice),

so if you’re kickin’ it brunch style, Mimosas are an easy way to go. If you want something red and berry-ish to suit the mood, try rosé sparkling wine and add raspberries or pomegranate. Another easy choice is orange vodka, cranberry juice, and club soda topped with orange slices. Plus, these can easily be made non-alcoholic by simply leaving out the alcohol. (But we didn’t; just saying.)

6. A toast to friendship. (clink clink!) A few words to warm the heart always make for a meaningful moment. If you want to go straight for the jugular, you might try something like: “It’s around the table that friends understand best, the warmth of being together” – Anonymous.
Or, go for fun: “True friendship is when you walk into their house and your WiFi connects automatically” – Author Unknown (internet probably). We can hook you up with even more ideas if you hop over to our What to Write page. These ideas work well as a toast in addition
to messages you can write in your cards. (Cue all the feels!)

7. Cards for everyone! What would Galentine’s Day be without a “tine” for every gal? (We just made that up. It’s the fizzy drinks). Of course, you’ll probably want to make sure each person
in attendance is given a warm expression of how much they mean, and since you just saw our What to Write ideas, you’re all set! Simply head here to pick your favorite cards. Or, you might want to give everyone a Thank You card for coming and, more importantly, for being the good friend you feel so lucky to have.

Our girlfriends are like our second family. These days, with the world spinning faster every second (so it seems), it’s important to keep them close, and a little gratitude goes a long way
in showing them how much they mean to us.

Leslie Knope said, “Anytime a group of women get together, we embody the spirit of the holiday.” We’ll go one further and add that ‘we embody the spirit of friendship.’
Cheers to yours — Happy Galentine’s Day!

Valentine’s Day Tips For Better Communication In Our Relationships

January 30 By American Greetings 2 Comments

A Chat with Koren Bierfeldt, LPCC

As Valentine’s Day approaches, it’s all about the emotions as we celebrate the people who matter most to us. And rightly so, because our relationships provide us with all the things that make life meaningful, and joyful, and amazing!

But we also know that relationships can be… well, a bit more complicated at times, too. Love is certainly not the only emotion involved, and relationships can take a heck of a lot of work—just keeping it real. So just why is it that the very same people we love so much can sometimes make us feel frustrated or misunderstood? How can we care about someone so deeply, but at times also feel confused or disconnected from them? How do we navigate through the emotions of our relationships and try to improve them—so we can focus on the happy stuff more often? What gives?

Lucky for us, we‘ve had the most insightful chat with Holistic Therapist & Relationship Expert, Koren Bierfeldt — to help us understand why this is the case.

With close to 20 years experience Koren helps us understand the nuances of miscommunication and why it’s crucial to have good communication to grow healthy, fulfilling relationships — and keep our meaningful connections in tip-top shape. Read on to discover how Koren works with couples to help transform their relationships and get tips on how you can show your loved ones how much they mean to you!

Koren, it seems you really enjoy what you do — how did you get started in such an impactful career?

Like a lot of people, when I was a teenager I went through some very difficult times. I turned to a psychologist for help and she made an incredible difference in my life. She was a great role model, and that’s when I became really excited about the idea of being able to help others and touch lives in such a profound and positive way.

Can you give us a glance into how you work with people and help them connect with each other?

I really love working with couples and families, because I believe that relationships are our greatest gift. As people learn how to communicate effectively and how to resolve conflict in healthy ways their closest relationships can be strengthened, uplifted, and healed. I teach my clients how to honor each other’s differences and needs, and how to accept ownership for their own actions and reactions. They learn how to truly listen to one another, and to communicate with appreciation for each other.

Why is effective communication important in maintaining healthy relationships with the people we love?

Being able to communicate effectively is one of the most important things you can do to have successful and fulfilling relationships. Caring, connected, supportive relationships are built on trust, honesty, openness, and mutual respect. Working together in love toward the common goal of an improved relationship can be deeply transformative and can greatly enhance intimacy, connectivity, and understanding. When we feel heard and understood in our closest relationships we experience greater joy in all aspects of our lives.
A chat with Koren Bierfeldt

Can you share any interesting facts about communication, understanding, and how these affect our physical or mental well-being?

Research has shown that poor communication skills are the number one reason for conflict in relationships. And a lack of adequate repair following an argument is the biggest contributor to marital unhappiness and divorce.

Studies have also shown that people who have satisfying relationships with family, friends, and community are happier, have fewer health problems, and actually live longer. Scientists also found that having relationships that make us feel connected and understood helps relieve harmful levels of stress. It also improves coronary function, insulin regulation, and our immune systems. Conversely, lacking healthy social connections can be associated with depression and later-life cognitive decline, as well as increased mortality.

One study (J. Holt-Lunstad, T.B. Smith & JB Layton, Brigham Young University) examined data from close to 309,000 people, finding people lacking strong relationships had a significantly higher mortality risk roughly comparable to smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day— also greater than obesity and physical inactivity. So, we see how important meaningful relationships really can be.

Valentine's Day Tips for Better Communication Tips in Our Relationships

But Koren, sometimes our relationships can be soooo difficult to navigate. Why is it that so often our actions don’t align with what we feel inside?

There are different reasons why someone’s behavior may not align with how they really feel. Some people are afraid of conflict and avoid expressing their thoughts or emotions in fear of causing an argument or hurting the other person. Others choose to behave passive aggressively and say they’re fine, when they are really hurt or angry. Some believe that if they lose control of their emotions others will think they are weak or vulnerable – we call that “emotional perfectionism.” People may also be afraid of rejection and repress their feelings because they’re afraid of abandonment or ending up alone. All of these behaviors cause harm to relationships and create disconnection with loved ones. But acknowledging our feelings and addressing them honestly is the best way to move forward toward health and happiness.

Can you offer any advice for people who might struggle to express their emotions?

When I’m working with someone who has a hard time expressing their feelings, I usually ask them to think about what it is they want most. If the answer is that they want a deeper level of connection and intimacy in their relationships, then they have to be willing to speak authentically even when it’s difficult, which takes courage. I also ask them to really consider the price they are paying when they choose not to express themselves. Because there are lots of ways we can share our feelings with someone, whether by acts of kindness, saying it directly to them, or even writing it down for them to read — of course, greeting cards make emotional expression so much easier!

Communication overall has changed in recent years – have these cultural changes made communication more or less effective in your opinion?

We now live in an age where so much of our communication takes place digitally. When we wake up in the morning we immediately reach for our devices and then use them to stay connected with everyone, the whole day. I think there are pros and cons to this.

Instant communication, connection and social media have boosted our ability to engage with a broader social network—with updates and significant events happening not just in our friends and family’s lives, but also those with whom we might not otherwise stay connected. Which can be good. The downside is that we’re often not as present or connected with those who are right in front of us—often the people who matter the most. In-person and verbal communication can often have far greater emotional value than anything that can be conveyed electronically. For example, we can’t hear the tone or softness in someone’s voice when they tell us they love us in a text. We can’t feel the sincerity of emotion as intensely when we aren’t able to look into our loved ones’ eyes as they express their feelings. And that’s all very important.

It seems like you really make a difference, Koren – so what’s the very best part about what you do?

I get to help people heal their relationships and lead healthier, happier lives. I’ve witnessed many beautiful transformations over the years. What could be better than that?

Valentine's Day Tips for Better Communication

Okay, last thing — Valentine’s Day is almost here. Any thoughts on how people can make this the best Valentine’s Day ever for their loved one?

That’s a great question! It makes me think about the fact that people have different ways of experiencing and receiving love. Some people feel most connected through physical touch or affection. For others, the most important thing is spending quality time together. My suggestion on how to make this a special Valentine’s Day would be to really think about what makes your loved one feel most connected, special, and loved. If you’re not sure, ask them! That’s their personal love language. Then plan a special way to tell them and show them – give them an experience, a card, or a gift centered around meeting their most heartfelt needs.

Care to share a favorite Valentine’s Day memory before you leave?

My love language, the type of communication I appreciate most, is verbal affirmation. I feel most loved when people communicate their feelings verbally or in written form, and really listen when I’m expressing myself.

One of the best gifts my husband gave me was to take me to a coffee shop in a bookstore. He gave me a beautiful card that expressed his feelings about our marriage. Then he said, “Today, you can talk about whatever you want and I will give you my full attention. If you want to get a book and discuss it, I’ll spend the afternoon doing that with you. If you want to process your feelings about our relationship, I will listen deeply.” Then he proceeded to tell me all of the reasons that he loved me. I was in complete heaven! I know that, for him, this was not a fun way to spend an afternoon. He would much rather have gone to a sporting event or out with friends. But he took the time to think about what would make me feel most loved and cherished. There isn’t any gift that I can think of that has ever meant more to me than that day.

So, whether face-to-face, hand in hand, digitally, or through written messages, it’s important to remember that speaking from the heart is key—not only in this season of love, but every day.

Saying “I love you” is always a great way to go, of course! But if that seems a little tricky to you, our writers have offered suggestions on finding the right words for you. Check out these tips for what to write in a Valentine’s Day card — and make sure to tell the person you love how important they really are.

Learn more about Koren Bierfeldt and how communication can improve your relationships at www.korenbierfeldt.com.

The Best New Year’s Resolution For 2018 [Or Ever]

January 8 By American Greetings Leave a Comment

Resolve to Reconnect

January 2018 is in full effect, everyone. And you know what that means – everyone is talking about New Year’s resolutions. Lots and lots of “What are your new year goals?“ everywhere. Time to hit the reset button, take inventory, get healthier, time to get organized, right?

We challenge you to try thinking a little outside the box on the whole New Year resolution thing this year. We’ve got a new year’s resolution idea for you that’s truly meaningful – one that could bring you real happiness! And the payoff is even more instant for you than say, hitting the gym or giving up sweets.

Ask yourself — how important is it to you to stay connected with people who mean a lot to you? Can you think of 3 people who come to mind? Well, how about resolving to reconnect with them this year?

We all know life gets in the way, and sometimes it’s just so ridiculously hard to stay connected– because, well… things! And that’s totally okay, because the good news is, it’s never too late! So take the pledge in 2018 – to reconnect with old friends, reconnect with family, your college roommate, a mentor, teacher, or call up an acquaintance you last saw right before a major milestone may have shifted your focus – and get on the path to happiness and well being by improving your relationships!

Don’t worry, we get it. Starting is always the hardest part. But we’ve already thought of that, and now you don’t have to go it alone. We’ve created a place you can visit stocked with ideas that’ll help you get over the most daunting part – resolving to reconnect with people you care about, then taking the first step to do it.

The best way to keep your resolution is to hold yourself accountable. So – go on! Kick off your connecting, with this inspiring free printable pledge that you can hang wherever you’d like, to hold yourself to the promise you made and keep those who have made an impact in your life top of mind in 2018!

Ways to Recognize Loss During the Holidays

December 19 By American Greetings 2 Comments

The tree is trimmed and twinkling, all the gifts are beautifully wrapped and the table is set for dinner. Yet it still feels like something is missing, despite all the season’s cheer. Those who’ve lost a loved one know this feeling all too well, and they may be looking for ways to find comfort by honoring those who have passed. Friends and family of the grieving might not know what to say or how they can help. But there are many ways to remember, to celebrate life and to show support.

Michelle Persichetti of Columbus, Ohio has experience coping with grief during the holidays. Michelle lost two loved ones around Christmas—her father and her uncle, both suddenly and unexpectedly.

“It’s a strange feeling with grief because there’s a lot of support at the beginning, as there should be, and then people go on with their lives, as they should,” says Michelle. “But you’re still dealing with the loss.”

Michelle believes that words are the most powerful way to show kindness and support to someone who is grieving, whether it’s a phone call, a text or a handwritten note. But sometimes, if you’re afraid to open wounds that have started to heal, it can be hard to send that text or mail that card. Instead of avoiding the loss or acting like it didn’t happen, remember that for those who have lost someone close, it’s always on their mind. The loss is a part of them.

Every year, Michelle memorializes her uncle by writing a thoughtful reflection, sometimes posting it on Facebook. Last time she did so, Michelle’s aunt texted her to tell her that she had just read Michelle’s words at her uncle’s gravestone.

“You never know when your words are helping someone,” says Michelle. “… If you’re afraid to approach someone who’s gone through something like this, don’t be, because they’ve already been through a lot of hardship, so your words can be healing.”

To honor her father, who passed away the day after Christmas, she and her family take a trip to Cleveland each year.

“My dad loved his church,” Michelle says. “It’s in downtown Cleveland, and we go there the Sunday after Christmas every year and go to Little Italy and celebrate his life.”

If you’re struggling to cope with grief this holiday season, here are some suggestions for remembering and honoring those who have passed:

Light a candle for loved ones lost. White candles are associated with healing and remembrance, so they’re especially nice to honor those who have passed.
Go to their favorite place of worship. Even if you don’t practice the same religion, it can be comforting to feel a spiritual connection with your lost loved one in the place where they found solace and celebrated their faith.
Bring the holiday spirit to them. Gather some holiday joy and take it to their resting place. You could leave them poinsettias, cut flowers, a wreath, or even a little porcelain snowman trinket.
Serve their signature dish as part of your holiday feast. Whether it’s Grandma’s candied yams, your brother’s green bean casserole or Auntie’s pineapple upside-down cake, find comfort in their favorite recipes.
Save them a place. Leave a seat for them at the table, with a place-setting and maybe even a photo to honor their memory.
Make a toast. Celebrate their lifetime achievements or share a favorite memory around the dinner table. Cheers!
Make an ornament to honor them. You could even incorporate a photo of them into an homemade ornament. As you hang it on the tree, invite your loved ones to gather around the tree to celebrate their life.
Story time. Brew some tea or make some hot cocoa and find a cozy spot to gather and tell your favorite stories from when they were alive. Take turns telling funny stories that make you laugh until you cry a little.
Watch and listen. Dust off their old copy of “A Charlie Brown Christmas” and pop it in the DVD player, or put on that old “Christmas Songs by Sinatra” record.
Be thankful. Spend time with family and friends, and be grateful for their love.

However you choose to honor your lost loved ones, remember that you are not alone. There are others who are experiencing that same feeling. Whether it’s another family member, a friend, or even a coworker. Reach out to them. Show up for them. Find comfort together.

Brought to you by M. Sophie Franchi. Sophie is a mother and a writer. She is also Managing Editor at The Devil Strip, a free alt-monthly arts and culture print magazine published in Akron, Ohio.

Gratitude for Family at the Holidays

December 17 By American Greetings Leave a Comment

When we think of the holidays, we think of festive parties and gatherings, snow and cocoa, warm fireside chats, and shopping until we’re weak in the knees. But what we’re constantly circling around is family; our beautiful, often crazy, sometimes drives-us-nuts-but-we-couldn’t-make-it-without-them family. Our families are the heart of our holidays, and whether it’s a feeling of comfort or disappointment when we think of them, they’re the people who love us no matter what, and this is the time to celebrate that love together.

Especially during this month of December, we want to focus on and think about the gratitude we feel for our families, so we’ve asked several people to share their stories and feelings about their own families with us. We hope you’ll be inspired to think about how and why your family fills you with gratitude at this special time of year.

I am grateful my family and home is a happy and healthy place…that we’ve gotten through some hardships and now have jobs and enough money to pay all the bills and enjoy our holiday festivities…that my children have good schools with kind, supportive, and hardworking teachers and staff…that despite the very painful loss of a loved one this year, all of my siblings will soon be together again to laugh and cry – in faith, peace, and love. Rosanna J.; PA

Since my family lives on opposite coasts, Christmas is the only time we see each other. Some years, weather or travel issues have made it difficult for us to get together, so I’m always grateful when we’re able to all be together and hug each other. Adam H., California

I love the Christmas season because my grandparents are still around. I feel very fortunate as a 26-year-old to have both my 93 year old grandpa and grandma. They live just down the street, so we do lots of fun things around the holidays. My grandma loves to bake. I’ll go over there a few times throughout the weeks leading up to Christmas to help her make some traditional desserts. My grandpa’s birthday is Christmas Eve. We do a brunch every Christmas Eve with my mom’s side of the family. Christmas Day they all come over to my parents’ house! My grandma is super talented at the piano and will just sit and play Christmas songs for hours! It truly is the best feeling of smelling all the traditional meals and scents of Christmas, the sound of Christmas music from the piano, and all the fun things that happen year after year because they are still around! Olivia V.; Ohio

My mom just had back surgery and is getting out of the hospital and will be home just in time for Christmas. I’m so relieved her surgery went well, and she’ll be able to be at home with us
because it just wouldn’t be the same without her here.” Sophie S.; Missouri

I love that my brothers, sisters and I all continue the same St. Nicholas tradition that my parents did for us when we were all growing up. When we get together, everyone shares their stories of how they pulled it off for their children that year, and it’s always a highlight of our gathering. I’ve always been grateful that my parents did something so magical for us as children that it made us all want to carry on the tradition. Lizabeth M.; Ohio

I’ve always been grateful for my darling Rose’s famous holiday cookies and coffee cake. Oh, the tree might be crooked or maybe a cow got loose and broke through the fence, but those things can never dampen the feeling of entering the house and being greeted by that delicious bakery smell that only my darling Rose can create. We send her goodies across the country each year to all our grandchildren, and they’ll call us as soon as the box arrives. There’s nothing sweeter on earth. Carl K.; Indiana

I love having my family around at the holidays, because it’s the only chance we have to all get together at the same time. I’m happy my mom is still around to be able to share in this season with us, too. Gina R.; Ohio

My brothers and sisters and I live in different states, but we always try and get together on a day between Christmas and New Year’s. When we’re finally all together, talking and laughing, it always feels like coming home again – that’s the best feeling ever, and I’m grateful for every year I get to feel it. Carla R.; Pennsylvania

5 Ways to Brighten Your Spirits If You’re Feeling Lonely at the Holidays

December 15 By American Greetings Leave a Comment

5 Ways to Lose the Lonely and Make Your Holiday Happy

“I’ll be home for Christmas…if only in my dreams.” Did you know that holiday classic, recorded by the legendary Bing Crosby in 1943, was originally written to honor soldiers overseas who longed to be home at Christmastime? While the holidays are all about spending time with family and friends, there are so many people who aren’t able to travel home, or don’t have any place to go during this season, and end up feeling downright lonely in the midst of all the holly jolly.

If you’re feeling a bit like your merry has headed south for the winter, one of the best ways to kick those grinchy feelings to the curb is to engage in certain activities that will get you to reach out to friends and loved ones near and far, as well as the people around you. The antidote to loneliness is connecting, so we’ve rounded up five easy ways to help you do just that. (Warning: these ideas will tend to bring out your inner Cheermeister.)

1. Break out the Skype along with the eggnog. These days, Skype make it so easy to feel like you’re there even when you can’t be. If family is gathering together, or you have friends in another state and you can’t be with them, there’s no need for you to spend the holidays alone. Link up long distance and join the conversation and merriment. Thanks to modern technology, you can still bake those traditional family cookies right along with Mom and Grandma, or catch up with your brother, aunt, or a special friend as you wrap presents together from afar.

2. Cultivate gratitude and put pen to paper. It’s well known that expressing gratitude improves your health, so grab a pen and some holiday cards and send some to the people you love and are missing. Thank them for being supportive, for always being able to make you smile, or for those hysterical moments you shared together that you’ll never forget. A fun idea to do for kids or grandkids away at school is to write 12 separate notes or cards for each of the 12 Days of Christmas. You’ll not only be giving them 12 days of fun in their mailbox, but you’ll be creating a great memory, too, for the both of you, while automatically feeling closer. And if you need a nudge to get all the fuzzy feels going, we have ideas for what to write to help get you started. (We also guarantee that you’ll start to feel your heart grow three sizes.)

3. Warm hands, warm heart: share a cup of cheer. Research actually suggests that taking a warm bath or having a comforting hot drink like coffee can help counteract feelings of loneliness. Even those ivy leaguers at Yale have found that adults and young children are more social after they’ve touched something warm. So if you can’t sit down with your own family this year, what better reason to ask a neighbor over for coffee? Or meet up with some friends you haven’t seen in a while at your local coffee shop? And while you’re at it, pay it forward and surprise a police officer or bell ringer with a cup, and watch their face light up like a Christmas tree.

4. Volunteer and make someone happy. There’s a saying that goes, “A sure way to be happy is to make someone else happy.” If you’re far away from the people you care about, sharing something, even if it’s with complete strangers, is one of the best things you can do for yourself when you’re feeling down, plus you’ll be immersed in the true spirit of the holiday season. And don’t forget our furry friends, too — local animal shelters are always in need of extra hands, and, like gratitude, animals have a positive effect on heath and can soothe isolated feelings while bringing an overabundance of comfort at the same time.

Focus on what brings you joy - 5 Ways to Lose the Lonely and Make Your Holiday Happy 5. Focus on what brings you joy. Doing things you love will help soothe your feelings of loneliness. Whether it’s painting, crafts, baking, being outside, or watching favorite holiday movies, don’t forget to treat yourself to the things that feed your soul. Always watched “It’s a Wonderful Life” with someone who you’re not with this year? Invite a neighbor or someone else you know who may be feeling alone, to watch it with you. Oftentimes, it’s sharing what we love that brings us the most happiness.

As Kris Kringle in Miracle on 34^th Street reminds us, “Christmas isn’t just a day; it’s a frame of mind,” and we hope that during the holiday season these ideas will help bridge the distance between you and the people you love, as you find joy in the spaces in-between.

Best Gifts Ever (And How To Be The Best Gift Giver Ever)

December 12 By American Greetings 1 Comment

Best gift ever

Let’s take a moment to think about holidays past. Have you ever said out loud, “BEST GIFT EVER!”

When you said it, were you the giver of the gift… or the receiver?

If you were the gift giver, you may recall the excitement and anticipation of finding something just perfect for your recipient, and the joy you felt making their wish come true. Just what is it about giving gifts that creates happiness in all of us?

Well, there’s actually a thing behind it! Neurological, behavioral and psychological studies report that our brains react just as positively giving gifts… as receiving them. Turns out your brain may light up just the way their face does when they open it! So yep, it’s really a thing! No wonder it’s the season of joy. And, now we know where the phrase “‘tis better to give and to receive” comes from!

If you were the recipient of that best Christmas gift ever, or that best Kwanzaa or best Hanukkah gift ever, think about the joy you felt when you opened it. Maybe it made you emotional. Maybe it made you cry. Or, smile a perma-smile. Now think back to why the gift was so special to you. This holiday season, how about reminding the person who gave it to you how important it still is to you? What better way to spread holiday cheer?

We can all agree – the best gifts ever are those that reflect things that are most meaningful to your someone special. The perfect gift is a reflection of their personality, sense of humor, what they believe in, think, or love. If you’re stuck on what to give someone this year, we’ve got some great Christmas gift ideas if you need a little help this season.

A Few of Our Favorite Feels

In this season of joy, here are some of our fave “best gift ever” stories from this holiday season. Spoiler alert – they’ll pull on your heartstrings a little bit. (And notice, none are ties, socks, or handbags.) They’re gifts based in love and sharing, in experience, memory making, and connection. That’s exactly what this season of joy is all about, after all.

Frame-Worthy Feelings

My daughter loves the water. When she was four, she asked my husband to print out a picture of her and I at the beach on vacation. Three months later during the holidays, she brought out a very special present for me that my husband knew nothing about. When I opened the very thoughtfully wrapped box with a bow she tied herself (almost), I discovered a frame decorated with shells she collected, framing the picture of us from that vacation. My husband did not know anything of her creative little secret, and I cry when I think of how good she did keeping it all on her own! ~Sylvia P, NY

Gifts That Keep On Giving Goodies

I received box of treasured family recipes from my mother handed down by my great-grandmother, through four generations. The box included about 20 handwritten recipes from generations of women in my family, explaining why each person loved the recipe they contributed, and memories of the meals that went along with each one. What an amazing way to preserve tradition! ~Jill J, OH

Music To My Years

The best gift I ever received was a play six string guitar from my parents when I was seven. I asked Santa for it for 3 years in a row! Who knew it would come to shape who I am as a musician today, and would be a part of time spent with so many others who share my faith. ~Ron T, CA

Memories on Track

When I was six, my father and I set up a train set in our attic. It was just the two of us, so that time was really special. As I grew older, I played with it less and less. But when I was twelve, I received a thoughtful Christmas gift from my father I’ll never forget – a Lionel 8800 Steam engine. This was no ordinary engine. It was die-cast metal, and I knew how much time it took him to find it, driving all around the city (pre-internet). I learned only later that he was very ill that year. Now, when I set up the train during the holidays it reminds me of these special times we shared when he was alive, and the loving effort he took to find it. ~Sean W, OH

As you can see – there’s a common thing that runs through all of these – thoughtful gifts that began with a little bit of forethought, an idea that’s unique to the recipient, and each delivered lasting memories or a reminder of time shared.

This holiday season, if you open up a present and say “BEST GIFT EVER”… consider yourself lucky. Because someone obviously really cares about you. And isn’t it nice to know they’re just as happy watching you open it?

The Holidays. And all the emotions.

December 4 By American Greetings 20 Comments

Our friend, Melissa Radke, is back, just in time for the holidays! This time of year can be emotional to say the least. We are excited to share a bit of how Melissa kicked off the season, in this heartfelt and honest guest blog. Enjoy!

Melissa Radke Guest Blog

As I write these words I am sitting on my couch, the Christmas tree on twinkle, next to my eleven-year-old daughter who has squeezed in as close to me as humanly possible and lightly snores. We will move her to her bed in a few minutes, but for this moment she is here with me. Just like she has been every second of every minute of every hour of every day of this recent holiday break.

Mama, needs some space. Don’t get me wrong, I adore her. But we are invading new territory right now with all her emotions and all her feelings…of which there are sooooo very many.

On Monday, she cried because she “felt dead inside and was growing up entirely too fast.”
On Tuesday, she screamed because her brother “accidentally” burnt down her Minecraft house.
Wednesday, she slept till noon.
Thursday, she was awake by 6am.
And Friday, she prayed that time would stand still so she could figure out which boy she liked.

I know how she feels…and I’m nowhere near 11.

I have cried at the thought that my baby is growing up.
I got emotional because the Spinach Salad I made on Thanksgiving was soggy and tasteless.
I openly wept at three different Christmas movies.
I raged when the new sweater I bought a few months back for our family Christmas pictures will now not even go over my head!
And I tossed a perfectly good Christmas tree in the trash because the lights. It’s always because of the lights!!

Melissa Radke

And now, as I look at this baby of mine, this sudden tween, lying in her Santa footy pajamas beside me, I cannot help but think to myself of all the things I want to tell her, all the things she might need to know someday. I want to whisper them, quietly of course, as to not alarm her…but I need her to always have these words. To look back at them a few years from now. So, I go to my stack of cards that I buy throughout the year and find the perfect one. I open it up and here is what I write:

Oh, Remi. It doesn’t get much easier, my love. I mean, Minecraft houses won’t continue to be a problem and chances are you will eventually figure out which boy you like, but the emotions – the tears, the laughter and the love – will only continue. It will continue until you are my age and then beyond.

You will be emotional on a Valentines that you spend alone.
And you will laugh hysterically with your girlfriends in your first college dorm.
You will miss your brother someday, even though right now that seems impossible.
And you will want to crawl up in my bed, right by me, after your first broken heart.
You will squeal with excitement when a ring is slipped on your finger and when you find out the child you’ve been hoping and praying for is on its way.

But you will shake with fear when the news is difficult and the doctor’s reports are bleak.
Don’t even get me started on adult friendships and how freaking hard they are! Sometimes you’ll be good at them and sometimes you’ll get hurt…sometimes you’ll need to forgive and other times you’ll need to hope they can forgive you.

There will be days you laugh until you cry; moments you experience profound joy, times you wish would last forever, memories you will treasure for a lifetime. There will be other times you hope to forget; pain you will find hard to erase, grief you will almost not be able to bear.

And it is that way for all of us, Remi, not just you. You are not alone in your joy and your pain, in your loss and your memories! Every person who has ever lived and loved and lost and learned has been subject to these things. They are the things that grow us, teach us, make us, heal us. And so tonight – my Scooby-Doo loving, Shawn Mendes listening, Fuller House watching, bubble bath taking, French fry eating, smoothie drinking, tweenager – I want you to know that everything you feel is real and wonderful and totally acceptable. So, feel it all! I’ll be right here with the tissues and the cookie dough, waiting on you, right by this twinkling tree…forever.

Love,

Mom

Melissa Radke

I close the card, seal it up and slide it under her pillow. Her daddy carries her to her bed and tucks her in and I go to sleep knowing she will find it tomorrow, or tomorrow night, or when she changes her sheets in seven months. It doesn’t matter when she reads it – it only matters that she reads it.

I’m not sure anyone ever left a card like that for you. I’m not sure anyone ever took your face in their hands and dried your tears. I don’t know if anyone let your hormones rage or your fears come crashing in. I don’t know if anyone sat on the couch with you and just let you, be you. So, if they didn’t…allow me.

Oh, friend. This holiday season, give yourself permission in a way that you haven’t in a really long time.
Give yourself permission to eat the fudge.
Give yourself permission to take the personal day.
Allow yourself to go to bed at 8 and sleep in till 10.
Eat cake for dinner and have a burger for breakfast.
Workout like a fiend or Netflix binge for nine hours.
Take a hot shower and curl up in the floor and cry – because no one can hear you cry in the shower.
Have a game night. Or say no to every single party you’re invited to.
Give yourself permission to feel mad and empty and angry and scorned.
Give yourself the freedom to laugh, to give, to heal and to forgive.
Grant yourself acceptance for all the parts you like and all the parts you don’t and make New Year’s resolutions not to change yourself, but to learn to love yourself.

This Christmas, turn the twinkling lights on, slip on your footy pajamas and fall asleep beside someone you love.

This Christmas, decide that you won’t be so busy that you can’t feel what needs to be felt, grieve what needs to be grieved, remember what needs to be remembered.

Melissa Radke

This season, feel it all. Go ahead! Because as bad as it might be you can always rest in the saving knowledge that your little brother did not set fire to your 3-d pixelated block home. And that’s a pretty big deal…when you’re 11.

Merry Christmas,

Melissa

Visit our Season of Joy page for more Christmas inspiration, including Christmas Messaging, Gift Guides, and Wrapping ideas!

Free Printable Thanksgiving Recipes… from our family to yours!

November 7 By American Greetings Leave a Comment

With Thanksgiving fast approaching and the rest of the holiday season right around the corner, there will undoubtedly be many family get-togethers and friendly dinners you will be invited to, which means it’s time to start thinking of some new side dishes to share with the group! With this in mind, we decided to make some free printable Thanksgiving recipe cards featuring some of our American Greetings associates’ favorite family recipes. We tried to select a few that seemed equal parts delicious and easy to prepare!

1. Spicy Chicken Dip:

This comes to us from the kitchen of Christine Stefanick and is a surefire winner during pre-dinner appetizers or any of the many football games thoughout the day! Click here to download and print the full-size, double-sided recipe card.

2. Squash Casserole:

We’re sure you’ve had squash casserole before, but this one adds in two of our favorite things in an amazing way–bread stuffing and cheese! To view the full recipe card and print it for yourself, click here! This tasty recipe is courtesy of American Greetings associate Dana Hunt!

3. Better Than Waldorf Salad:

From the kitchen of Sue Tischler, this upgraded Waldorf Salad recipe adds pineapple, cherries, and marshmallow cream to create a delightful side dish that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Download and print the full recipe card here!

What’s your favorite family recipe? We’d love to hear in the comments!

Printable Thanksgiving Place Setting Cards

October 20 By American Greetings 1 Comment

Thank goodness for Thanksgiving! We all get so caught up in the daily busy-ness of life that it’s easy to sideline what matters most, which is why Thanksgiving is so special. It makes us stop and take note of what truly matters in our lives. That’s why we created these special printables for you to cut out and set at each place-setting on your Thanksgiving table. There are four different place setting templates to choose from. Simply decide which style you like best and click on the link under the image to download and print your cards!

Traditionally place cards suggest a larger formal sit down dinner; however place cards can be used to add a special touch to any casual get together as well! They are the first thing your guest will see when they sit down, so why not have some fun and set the tone for your festivities!

As guests arrive, point them to their Thanksgiving place setting cards and invite them to fill out what they’re thankful for as they mingle and enjoy appetizers or cocktails. Then, whether you decide to do it as part of the blessing, before the meal, or afterwards, go around the table and have everyone share what they wrote. Hearing all the many reasons for which people are grateful reminds us to cherish all we have and, more importantly, who we have to share it with.

Printable Place Setting Cards

Version 1 / Version 2 / Version 3 / Version 4

Grandparents Day Free Printable Quote

September 7 By American Greetings 1 Comment

Grandparents Day Free Printable Quote

The bond between a grandparent and grandchild is such a special connection, don’t you think? Without the pressure of the day-to-day parenting, it can be such a breath of fresh air to open yourself up to a world of play and discovery as you see the world through your grandchild’s (magical!) eyes. And you serve a unique role in the family lineage–a wise adviser, family historian and a strong, respected family member to lean on–it’s no wonder they call this time your golden years!

Grandparents Day is coming up on Sunday, September 10th and to celebrate, we created this free printable Grandparents Day quote just for you! This free printable artwork is perfect to display in your home or office or share on your social networks.

Download and print this free Grandparents Day quote HERE to help celebrate the important bond between grandparent and grandchild!

Looking for another fun way to celebrate Grandparents Day? Get a great list of questions with tips for Connecting with Grandparents to kick off a meaningful talk!

Happy Memorial Day!

May 24 By American Greetings Leave a Comment

Memorial Day - A day to remember America's bravest sons and and daughters

While each of us celebrates this three-day weekend in our own favorite way—whether it’s with a backyard barbeque, a family camping trip, or taking time to plant your flowers—we all know there’s a much greater purpose for Memorial Day than simply kicking off the summer season. Today is the day for us as a nation to pause and remember the men and women of the military who lost their lives serving our country. Originally introduced in 1868 as “Decoration Day”, its purpose was to honor fallen Civil War soldiers by decorating their graves with flowers. Renamed Memorial Day after World War I, it was then expanded to pay respect to all Americans who died in military service. It’s believed the last Monday in May was chosen because that’s when flowers are in bloom all over the country. President Nixon finally made Memorial Day a federal holiday in 1971. Today, there are countless Memorial Day events nationwide that range from lively parades to traditional ceremonies, like laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery. But even if you’re celebrating in your own backyard, you can still pay respect to our nation’s heroes in simple yet meaningful ways:

Observe the National Moment of Remembrance at 3:00 pm: “As we contemplate the comforts and blessings of our lives and the well-being of our nation, I ask you to pause just for a moment to remember those who gave their lives to protect the values that give meaning to our lives.” – President Bill Clinton, May 31, 1999
Decorate a Veteran’s Grave: During Memorial Day Weekend, several thousand bouquets are placed at the Nations War Memorials in Washington, D.C. You can sponsor a thank-you bouquet through the National Memorial Day Foundation.
Show Your Sympathy: Memorial Day can be a difficult time for those who have lost someone in the military. Whether you reach out by phone, email or an ecard, your thoughtfulness will be appreciated.

It’s important to remember that the brave men and women we’re commemorating today died not only for our freedom as a nation, but for each one of us personally to live a safe and fulfilling life. To those of you currently serving in the military, we honor you with the utmost respect and gratitude and wish you a happy and peaceful Memorial Day.

Last Minute Mother’s Day Gifts

May 9 By American Greetings Leave a Comment

Everyone’s busy, we know that. Because sometimes life—and all its craziness—just gets in the way. But maybe after glancing at a calendar or overhearing someone mentioning it, you might suddenly realize that Mother’s Day will be here much quicker than you thought. Actually, it may even be just a day or two away, and—yikes!—you haven’t even gotten Mom a gift yet. What are your choices now?! First, don’t panic. Second, let’s give this some thought, shall we? You could rush out and try to find some chocolates…somewhere…if there are any left. Ok, strike that idea. Or, you could pick up a bouquet of flowers that no one else bought. But they’re probably looking a bit wilted by now. Ok, strike that idea, too. OR…you could go online and visit some pretty helpful search sites that offer an exciting selection of unusual- yet-totally-thoughtful gift ideas. Yep, we’d say this is the best idea by far. If you agree, we’d like to help you get started. To do that, we’ve rounded up several search sites we think you’ll really like. Take a look around and see what Mom would like best. Put it in your cart, press the “order now” button, then sit back and relax, knowing that Mom will be getting a really nice gift from you just in time for Mother’s Day. She may even think you spent months coming up with the idea—but hey, our lips our sealed!

There probably isn’t much you can’t find for Mom on Amazon! And if you’re a Prime member, all the better since you get free 2-day shipping. Otherwise, if time really isn’t on your side, opt for 1-day shipping instead.
With some of the most unique gift ideas on the web, Etsy is a great source to consider this Mother’s Day. Just be sure to check under the “Shipping & Policies” tab to ensure timely delivery. Or click on “Ask a question” for a direct convo with the shop owner.
This fun monthly gift couldn’t be any easier. Just choose your club (from wines and cupcakes, to flowers and candles) , pick your options per your budget (number of shipments, frequency of deliveries), then let Mom’s smiles begin!
If you’re an AmericanGreetings.com member, send Mom a lovely Mother’s Day ecard to which you can also easily add a fantastic gift or gift card from a number of exciting retailers, including Bath & Body Works, Nordstrom, Sur La Table, Starbucks, and more. Plus, you can also gift Mom a 1- or 2-year membership to AmericanGreetings.com. This way she can stay in touch with friends and family all year long. And what greater gift is there than that?