Hello friends! Every year I bring cards to the veterans at a local retirement home. I think it’s important to let our veterans know they are still loved and appreciated. If you or your loved ones have served or are currently serving, I want to say a huge THANK YOU! đź’—
I always buy extra patriotic papers in the summer since I know I probably won’t find them in the fall. I bought the Stars and Stripes collection from MFT. It’s perfect for Veteran’s Day and Independence Day cards. Unfortunately, it has already been retired.
No video this time, but I wanted to share the cards and my process since I get a lot of questions about the cards I donate.
I made a total of 20 cards to give to the veterans. A local friend made another 15 cards. She also loves to support our veterans.
I used the same sketch for all of the cards.
Sketch – MFT #600
Patterned paper – MFT Stars and Stripes (retired)
Sentiment stamp – Altenew Land That I Love (retired)
Star dies – Waffle Flower
Ink – Catherine Pooler
Enamel dots – Altenew and Pink & Main
I used a couple different stamp sets. The Happy Veteran’s Day sentiment is from a retired Altenew set called Land That I Love.
The sentiment I stamped on the inside of the cards is from Jaded Blossom’s God Bless America set.
I don’t always make a bunch of the same style card, but sometimes I really enjoy the assembly line process.
The cards will be hand delivered, so I could add lots of dimension.
I always include envelopes for cards going to the retirement homes. Since I’m not the one handing out the cards, it helps the Activity Coordinator know the card theme. Plus I think it feels more like mail when it’s inside an envelope. I didn’t take a picture, but I seal the envelopes with cute washi tape. It makes it easier for the residents to open the envelopes and it’s fun. (Also gives me an excuse to buy all the adorable washi tape out there.)
All of the cards I take to local retirement homes are Happy Mail for the residents. I always include a handwritten message inside every card. I know many residents don’t get regular visitors or even mail, so I’m hoping my card will add a little bit of sunshine to their day. Everyone needs to know they are important and loved.
If you are able and willing, I highly recommend looking around your area for places that may benefit from a handmade card. I always recommend contacting the homes, hospitals, cancer centers, etc before bringing cards. Check to see if they have a need and if there are any restrictions. Example, no glitter or small bling.
I’ve recently spent time in a memory care home visiting a loved one and it can be a very lonely place for the residents. I believe even a little bit of kindness can brighten someone’s day. đź’—
Below are links to most of the products used in this video. These are affiliate links that help me offset the costs of creating these cards. When products are purchased through these links, I receive a small commission that does not affect the price you pay. I am not an expert and all opinions are my own. I find joy creating cards and videos and I love sharing them with my viewers.
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Thanks for visiting my blog today.
I appreciate your kindness and support! đź’—
Those are awesome! I donate to a VA hospital, for everyday cheer and for holidays. A little bright spot for everyone. Thank you for sharing your process! It’ is always good to get new ideas.
Wonderful post, Kristie! You are a gem and an encouragement. Thank you for all that you do and share!