Unveiling the Story Behind the Name: The Fascinating History and Impact of Postcards

Imagine this scenario: you’re meeting someone new and they ask, “So, do you collect anything?” If you’re like me, you might feel a wave of panic wash over you, your mind going completely blank. It’s a strange reaction, but I can’t quite explain it. Over the years, I’ve gathered a variety of collections, but my second favorite has to be the postcards from the places I’ve visited. Each postcard holds a memory, a story, a glimpse into a moment that made me smile. After I stopped scrapbooking, I found myself at a loss for how to showcase all those beautiful postcards. I wanted them to be more than just a stack in a drawer; I wanted them to be a way to relive those adventures and share them with others. And here's something to look forward to: October 1st is World Postcard Day! It’s a wonderful occasion to celebrate the postcard and the meaningful connections it fosters.

Postcards have a special charm, don't they? They originated in the late 1800s and early 1900s as a delightful way for people to easily and quickly communicate. The world's oldest known postcard, "Penny Penates," was a hand-painted design posted in 1840 by Theodore Hook to himself in London. It featured a caricature of post office clerks and a Penny Black stamp, a true piece of history.

September 2018 was a turning point for me, as it marked the beginning of a new adventure with a few of my closest girlfriends. We decided to shake things up and embark on an annual girls' trip, each year choosing a new city to explore together for a long weekend. The only rule? It had to be a place that most of us hadn’t visited before. Our journey in 2019 led us to the historic streets of Boston, Massachusetts—the birthplace of the American Revolution. It was a trip filled with laughter, memories, and the kind of bonding that only happens when you’re discovering new places with your best friends.

We truly immersed ourselves in the local culture, embracing all the touristy delights along the way. From wandering through the historical landmarks that tell stories of the past to savoring delicious pasta in the charming streets of Little Italy in the North End, every moment was a treat. We couldn’t resist indulging in fresh lobster rolls by the water, and of course, we had to stop for a cold beer at Cheers!, soaking in the nostalgic vibe of the place. Timing our trip with the 4th of July added an extra layer of excitement, as America’s beloved pastime—Baseball—was in full swing! With the Atlanta Braves facing off against the Boston Red Sox, we seized the opportunity to catch a game. It was also the perfect chance to tour the iconic Fenway Park, a place steeped in baseball history, making our adventure all the more memorable.

One of my dear friends’ husbands is an absolute baseball fanatic! His passion for the game is infectious, and he loves exploring different ballparks across the country. We had the chance to visit Fenway Park before he did, and we wanted to make sure he felt included in our adventure. To soften the blow of missing out, we decided to each pick a postcard from the park and write down a unique fact—whether it was something fun, historical, or even a quirky tidbit. We mailed them off, knowing that snail mail would take its sweet time, so he wouldn’t receive them until weeks after our visit. It was such a delightful surprise for him, and it also served as a lovely reminder of our trip for my friend. It’s those little moments that truly strengthen our bonds!

Ever since I started my travels, I've made it a personal tradition to send at least one postcard from each place I visit. It brings me joy to share a piece of my journey with someone special. There's something heartwarming about visiting a family member or friend's house and spotting my postcard proudly displayed on their refrigerator! It feels like a little piece of my adventures is right there with them.

So, where's my next postcard going to be sent from? I can already imagine the beautiful landscapes I'll be exploring and the unique experiences waiting for me. Who will I send it to? Perhaps a dear friend who always appreciates a glimpse into my adventures, or maybe a family member who loves to travel vicariously through my journeys.

I truly hope that my future blog posts will not only be filled with helpful tips but also serve as a postcard from my travels, capturing the essence of each destination.

Join me on this exciting journey as I share my top tips and tricks to help you plan trips that are truly postcard-worthy! Get your postage ready, and let’s embark on this adventure together!