You Can't Reread a Phone Call.

When's the last time you put a stamp on something that was not a bill?

When's the last time you received a letter in the mail that wasn't a bill?

I have always been fascinated with letter writing and handwritten notes. I attribute this to my late grandmother who no matter what sent a handwritten card or letter for every holiday or occasion. She had the most ornate, beautiful handwriting.When I was younger, every letter I received I would sit and practice tracing the letters hoping my writing would be as gorgeous one day. I remember thinking about how I would never receive another handwritten card from her, and it really broke my heart.

That same year after she passed, I headed to the mail box to grab what I thought would be sales papers and mostly bills. The corner of a mauve colored envelop caught my eye, and I was excited to receive a card in the mail. While standing at the mailbox, I flipped it over to see who was the sender. That same ornate handwriting I had tried to perfect for so long was beautifully spread across the front of the envelope. I dropped to my knees an cried tears of loss but also joy. To this day, I have this card framed and in my office to admire. 

I truly believe we have lost the true value and art of letter writing. There are so few people who actually take the time to practice such an art. When did "Thnx" become more preferred than "Sincerely Yours"? I've made it a personal mission to recapture the art of letter writing and share the joy with those closest in my life. I keep a huge box of blank cards an thank you notes to send whenever needed.

But why you ask? Think about it.
Someone took the time to sit down and put a pen to paper expressing their personal thoughts to you. It's incredibly personal. It is probably one of the most inexpensive ways to brighten someone's day ($0.49!) They can be reread and kept forever.

My goal this year is to send as many handwritten cards and notes as I can! So far, I am 2 for 2 with birthdays on my calendar! Want to be added to my handwritten mail list?! Know someone who would enjoy a handwritten note? Please contact me for details!

I challenge you to take the time and send a handwritten letter to just one person. I promise the joy and return is worth the $0.49!

No Orange, No Stripes

Two words: District Court

 

 

Have you ever had to experience going to court? Well, last week I had my first (and last) experience with court. It was a speeding ticket and quite a few mphs over the posted speed limit. It was probably one of the most terrifying experiences, Ever.

 

I arrived early and watched all the cases before mine. The video conferenced in those already incarcerated. The other cases were sentencing for random charges. Finally, traffic court began. He called name-after name, most of which decided not appear for court. Then, I hear... Jerrica Moses.

I walk slowly to the podium where he reads my charges. "How do you plead?"

 

Uhhh what?! My stomach dropped to my toes, and my mouth sealed shut. I would pay money to see the look on my face. Before I could even murmur a noise, the judge answers for me. He explains the consequences of driving fast and asks what I learned from this. "I never want to be here again." Not the best answer, but the judge seemed to enjoy it. He laughed, and then said, dismissed.

 

 But here's what I really learned from this experience:

 

1. People have no respect for the justice system or the judge. Most of the other people waiting for their cases were less than presentable. Most were in pajamas and their hair not even combed. Come on people! At least bathe and not wear a hat. Your appearance is the first thing anyone in that court room notices. Your lack of effort is disrespectful the judge and justice system.

 

2.  Turn OFF your cell phone. This is just common sense. Your ridiculously loud ringtone distracts every one in the courtroom. The county I had to attend court in confiscates your phone for 48 hours if it goes off while court is in session. Again, it is a respect thing.

 

3. Have all documents together before going to the podium. Countless people spent several minutes fumbling around finding drivers license, insurance cards, and other documentation needed for the judge. Having it ready prior saves both you, the judge, and the 100s of people waiting their turn.

 

4. Don't text and drive. You might think that using your phone while driving is okay, that you have it under control. Law enforcement and judges DO NOT take this lightly. I listened to the judge lecture a young lady about how dangerous it is, and that he cannot understand why people think this is okay. She walked away with over $1000 in fines. Visit DoT website for more information about distracted driving.

 

5. I am definitely slowing down. I don't know what is worse. That I had to go to court or the anxiety I faced in the weeks leading up to court.

 

Take it from me, it's not worth it. And orange is definitely NOT my color.