How to Write an Unforgettable Holiday Letter

Nothing tells family and friends you're thinking of them more than a form letter. But how to begin? Don't fret! Writing the annual holiday missive isn't difficult. To help you get started, we've jotted down a few simple rules to guide you, alongside an annotated version of the letter we're sending out this year.

- Jeanne and Don, with help from Andy Simmons

Dear Louise:

It's that holiday time of year already! (1) My gosh, where does the time go? So much has happened over the past year, and we're eager to bring you up to speed.

First, some good news: Todd found a furnished studio apartment on the Hudson River. (2) It's in an exclusive gated community called Sing Sing, and he shares it with his new roommate, Beelzebub. The lodgings come with free meals and the use of an exercise yard the guys share with 1,700 other like-minded gentlemen. Now, the sad news: Todd announced that he won't be joining us for the holidays this year. Don and I will keep a place for him in our hearts. The same goes for my sainted Aunt Mae, who passed away in February. She lived life to the fullest, always bustling about. I'll never forget her last words: "Of course we can make the light!"

12 SIMPLE RULES

(1) People are busy during the holidays. So just in case anyone has forgotten what time of year it is, remind them.

(2) Begin your letter on a positive note. It's tempting to dwell on the bad. But remember, 'tis the season to be jolly. Turn frowny news into smiley faces.

(3) Do share exciting news ...

(4)... but don't brag. Not everyone is as fortunate as you!

(5) Not sure what to discuss? Is there a new addition to the household, maybe a pet, a plant, some kicky new mailing labels?

(6) Teasing your spouse lets everyone know that you haven't followed through on your plans to leave him.

(7) Mention all your kids ...