In a time when we need letter writing more than ever, KH & Co provides the highest quality stationery and antique wax seals. It all started with a dollar bill and a piece of bubblegum. My grandmother Neenie introduced me to the art of letter writing. Every time I wrote her, she replied with a beautiful card, her loving words, a dollar bill and a piece of bubblegum. I loved how a simple folded piece of paper seemed to close the distance between us. I was hooked. My antique seals date from the 1700s and 1800s. Just like the people who created them, I’m a steward who enjoys them for a while until they’re passed to someone new. In the meantime, these seals won’t collect dust in a drawer; they beckon to travel the world on envelopes, to be shared, admired and loved. Lord Byron once wrote, “All who joy would win must share it. Happiness was born a Twin.” I intend for my boutique to share my joy with you, and allow you to pass your joy on to others – to share your own creativity, beauty and love. Neenie has since passed, but her cards continue to fold the distance between us. I remember the dollar bill, the piece of bubblegum, and the joy of love sent through the mail.
what young you needed to hear
At my desk, I keep a small photo of me as a child. (image below) In the image, I'm holding a little golden trout I caught myself while fly fishing in the High Sierra. I can still feel that young girl in me. I love her courage, curiosity and confidence.
Do you tune in to your inner child regularly?
For this letter, I recommend starting with ceremony. Lighting a candle and pouring some tea can be very nice.
Then, determine what age of yourself you'd like to write. I usually recommend choosing an age between 6-12, but you will know what age needs your support and wisdom most.
Share from your heart. Let your child know not to worry. Give them advice for how to navigate the challenges they have. Let them know that you love them.
Write exactly what you know that younger you needs to hear, and stay with them for them to hear it.
Once done, close your eyes and put your hands on your heart. Feel the connect you have with them still and bring them with you into your day.
If you've missed any emails this week, here are the links:
May you find healing and connection in today's letter,
Kay (Kathryn Hastings)
Kathryn Hastings
In a time when we need letter writing more than ever, KH & Co provides the highest quality stationery and antique wax seals. It all started with a dollar bill and a piece of bubblegum. My grandmother Neenie introduced me to the art of letter writing. Every time I wrote her, she replied with a beautiful card, her loving words, a dollar bill and a piece of bubblegum. I loved how a simple folded piece of paper seemed to close the distance between us. I was hooked. My antique seals date from the 1700s and 1800s. Just like the people who created them, I’m a steward who enjoys them for a while until they’re passed to someone new. In the meantime, these seals won’t collect dust in a drawer; they beckon to travel the world on envelopes, to be shared, admired and loved. Lord Byron once wrote, “All who joy would win must share it. Happiness was born a Twin.” I intend for my boutique to share my joy with you, and allow you to pass your joy on to others – to share your own creativity, beauty and love. Neenie has since passed, but her cards continue to fold the distance between us. I remember the dollar bill, the piece of bubblegum, and the joy of love sent through the mail.
My passion for writing was kindled by my grandmother, Neenie. From a young age, I learned from her how to infuse letters into my life. Most nights, she sent me a card with a dollar bill and a piece of bubblegum, always replying with a new note for every letter I wrote her. She extended the same gift to my sister, ensuring we each had our own special correspondence. Many cards concluded with a postscript of "ILUABAAPAAHATN," an acronym for the Doris Day song, "I love you, a bushel and a peck,...
Since the pandemic started, I've felt my social network shift, shrink and crack. Has the same thing happened to you? We haven't had as many weddings to go to. Travel has significantly decreased, which I don't mind but it's meant I've had fewer occasions to connect with friends around the country. Today, simply write someone out of the blue. Give them an update on your life. Let them know why you're thinking of them. Ask them how they're doing too. It can be a card, short and sweet, or...
On last week's podcast, I spoke about writing letters to the dead. If you haven't listened yet, I'd recommend doing so. (listen here) First, think of someone you'd like to write. It can be someone you knew who has passed OR someone from history you would like to know. Either way, the process is the same. Now, get situated at your writing space with pen and paper. Before writing, light a candle for them. Then close your eyes. Bring your palms together in front of your chest and say, "Hello...