How to Make a Letter Chain for Your Loved Ones

At times in our lives we will find ourselves separated from family and friends. It could be due to school or work obligations, a vacation or military deployment that takes us away. No matter how long the time is that you are apart, it can be difficult. However, creating a letter chain for your loved ones can make the time pass more quickly and the pain be a little less.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Paper or cards with envelopes
• Pen
• Thoughts and meaningful words to share

1. When life's twists and turns causes us to spend time separated from family and friends, this is a great way to help feel connected. First, determine how long you are going to be apart from each other. It may be just a few days or many months, this is important to know so that you will know the amount of letters you need to prepare.
   
   If you are only going to be away a few days you could easily do 1 for each day you are gone. However if it is many weeks or months, you may want to consider a weekly or bi-weekly letter.
2. What you are going to do is write letters that will be opened during your absences. They can be simple notes that just say, "I love you and I miss you; can't wait to see you in a few days!" Or they can be long heartfelt letters.
   
   If you are going to miss a special day, such as birthdays, anniversaries or kids' ball games, you will want to include something special to be opened then. This will make the person feel special because you remembered and did something ahead of time to show them you care.
3. Once you have filled out your letters, cards, poems and whatever else you are going to leave, you need to put them in envelopes. You will want to number the envelopes so that they get opened in the correct order and leave instructions on them if need be. For example, "Open me on December the 24th" or "Please have Jake open me on November the 5th for his Birthday."
4. Make this a part of your travel preparations, while you are packing and getting ready, jot a few notes down for those you are leaving behind for a few days. It will make your absence easier and they will love and appreciate your thoughtfulness.