The holiday season is traditionally a time to send messages. Messages to family, friends and business colleagues. These days those messages can take a number of forms: an email, a card, and these days even a Facebook post.

Looking at those I received, the ones which were most appreciated were not the bulk emails or the group texts, and they were not the messageless and therefore meaningless cards from businesses. What was most appreciated were the cards where somone had taken the time to handwrite a personal message. This meant they cared sufficiently to use their valuable pre-Christmas time spending a few minutes with me, even in absentia.

Of course, I also appreciated those cards which came with the annual letter. It gave me a chance to catch up with their activities over the year and is especially valuable when you haven't been in touch during that time. I know my English mother-in-law always appreciates it when I write one of these, so I make a special effort to do so and even ensure she receives it in time to be able to show to her extended family during Christmas events.

Few of us have time these days to spend hand writing letters, which is why they are so valued by the receiver. So, here's Word Wizard's first tip of the year - buy a set of nice cards and send at least one per week to someone you value. Write a personal message and put your heart into it. Your recipient will be very pleased that you made the effort, especially as it isn't even Christmas.