My husband and I celebrated our 20th wedding anniversary this summer. It was a 
fabulous day. Yes, a big milestone, but more importantly, we celebrated during a peak.
Anyone who’s been married for more than a year, knows that the path of marriage consists of peaks and valleys. The peaks are what keep us going. They remind us why we married our soul mate.
And then there are the valleys. You’ve heard of “the seven-year-itch?” In my house, it was “the seven-year-hate.”
Hallmark thrives on peak times. The week of my anniversary, overflowing with emotion, I skipped down the aisle, reading every card with tears in my eyes, so moved by the words that reflected my love. I couldn’t narrow it down to just one, so I bought several, including one of those expensive, “extra-postage-required” cards. (Now that’s some love!)
But during the valleys, when it’s time to buy the obligatory card, we’re left hanging. There’s nothing out there that conveys our true feelings. We scan the cards, cringing at the words we can’t stomach to send. And it’s not just anniversaries. Think of Boss’ Day.
So I’ve come up with some ideas that Hallmark should consider.
Anniversary:
As we celebrate the day of our marriage, I want you to know… I hate your ass right now, but I’m sure it will pass. Happy Anniversary!
Daughter’s Birthday:
I can’t believe you’re sixteen. Through the years, my love for you has only grown… But if you don’t stop your smart-mouthing, you’ll be at your grandmother’s before you can say, “Facebook.” Happy Birthday!
Mother’s Day:
Mom, we’ve been through so much over the years, I could never put into words all that I feel for you. But on this Mother’s Day, I’m so happy to share… My therapist says I don’t hate you as much as I used to.
Hallmark, you can’t use these, but I’d be happy to start a new line for you. Maybe something like:
Get Real. When You’re Mad Enough to Tell the Truth.
Chris Campillo 
Love, love it!
Beverly. Sent from my iPhone
Thanks. I knew you’d appreciate it.
THIS IS PHENOMENAL!!! Hallmark… when you care enough to send the very least.
Maybe I need to change my writing path.
Chris, you are truly a genius with words! Hallmark: TAKE NOTE: I would use these in a heartbeat.
I’d love that gig.
Another nail on the head! Funny Stuff!
You crack me up! Thanks for the laugh.
Hey, I owe you at least 100.
Your best blog post yet!
Good to know. Thanks for stopping by.
Awesome stuff sister as usual ….makes me smile 🙂
Thanks, Ginger.
Very funny, Chris! The newest Hallmark line: Tell It Like It Is. For the times when you dare enough to send the truly felt.-Jillian
Love that tag line!
Ha ha ha! I LOVE these! And, yes, I totally agree. We do need cards like that.
Thanks for stopping by, Caryn. Yes, I think everyone (whether they’d admit it or not) has had a moment when they would’ve considered such a card. It’s probably best such a line doesn’t exist.:)
Spot on with your witty fabulousness, Chris! Thanks for the smile 😉 AND for the truly heinous person in your life, there is the Get Worse card with accompanying voodoo doll.
Get Worse Card? Really?
Ha, ha…No, not really. I made that up. But doesn’t it sound like something that could be?
Darling Chris ~ these are perfect! How I wish I could’ve found a couple of them! Very funny…
Of course, what I’m the happiest about is that you and your DH celebrated #20 on a peak. Good for you for sticking through those valleys!
Thanks, Jo Anne. It’s been a journey. Makes you love the peaks that much more.
How about: “Here’s the card I’m sending b/c if I don’t, you’ll carry a grudge that I’ll never be able to overcome. Thanks for motivating me!”
Now there’s a thought. A grudge line!