Gardens Galore!

Corrie on January 8, 2015


Gardening is cheaper than therapy
And you get tomatoes.
—Anonymous

January is National Mail Order Gardening Month, when gardeners from coast to coast enjoy sitting at home in a warm house while the snow rages outside, paging through seed catalogs and dreaming of warmer days and a colorful spring.

Anyone can grow flowers, vegetables, herbs or plants without a  “green thumb” – which was green fingers back in the 1930s when the phrase first began to be used. Beginners should brush up on the basics, of course, but once you’ve successfully grown some of nature’s beauty, you’ll be hooked.

Greeting Card Universe can’t wait till spring arrives because we love to stop and smell the roses! Get your favorite gardener a Garden Themed Card for their birthday or other special day – just order on-line and we’ll mail your card the next business day. Or if you’re in a hurry, get free in-store pick-up, usually in 1 hour, at most Target and Bartell Drug Stores.

What Are Happy Shoppers Saying About Greeting Card Universe?
“The customer service at Greeting Card Universe is exemplary. When the shipment of my Christmas cards was delayed due to problems with the mail, they sent another shipment to me overnight and at no extra charge. I had been quite worried that my cards wouldn’t arrive before the holiday, but thanks to their service, I really didn’t need to.” – Arthur – Dec 30th, 2014

New Year: Some Fascinating Facts

Corrie on December 29, 2014


While the turning of the old year to the new year was celebrated as far back in human history as ancient Babylon, it took the famous Roman, Julius Caesar, and his reconciliation of the calendar to appoint January 1 as New Year’s Day — thus deeming December 31 as New Year’s Eve, a night of parties and celebration world-wide in our modern age.

Here are a few fascinating facts about New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day to mull over before the end of 2014.

The very first celebration of New Year’s Eve in New York City’s Times Square took place in 1904—a huge, street-wide party to celebrate the opening of the newspaper, the New York Times.

The first ceremonial ball dropping to mark the end of the old year and the beginning of the new happened in New York City in 1908 due to fireworks being banned because of the fire hazard.

Auld Lang Syne is sung by celebrants around the globe as the traditional New Year’s Eve song, but while the words written by Robert Burbs hasn’t changed, the tune has. The melody of the original Scottish folk tune changed around 1860.

In the late 19th century, champagne became the favorite celebratory drink for New Year’s parties not only of the wealthy, but of the comfortable middle class who could afford to splurge on special occasions.

Greeting Card Universe thanks its artists, friends, family and supporters for a wonderful 2014 and wishes everyone a happy, healthy, and prosperous 2015! Check our the special deals on one of a kind New Year’s cards to send your own personal wishes out to all your peeps. Order on-line, get a great deal, and we’ll mail your cards the next business day.


what Are Happy Shoppers Saying About Greeting Card Universe?
“Thank you so much for making it easier to find the perfect Birthday card, without stressing out. It was easy to place my order and the card was delivered in days; sealed and protected in a bubble wrapped envelope. I was very happy with the great customer service I receive when I called with a question about placing my order.” – Kelvin – Dec 22nd, 2014

5 Frosty Facts About the Snowman

Corrie on December 20, 2014


A favorite winter activity around the world is making a snowman (or snow woman)! From simple stacked balls with a carrot nose and coal eyes to much more elaborate and artistic sculptures, the snowman is instantly recognizable no matter the country or culture.

Here’s more about the snowman’s surprisingly long history.

So far the first written evidence of a snowman comes from a margin drawing in a Book of Hours, an illuminated manuscript from 1380 currently located in the Royal Library of The Hague, Netherlands.

The snowman has been a popular symbol of the Christmas holidays for a long time, particularly in advertising and retail products including a snow cone machine.

The Abominable Snowman (aka Yeti) isn’t actually folk art made of snow, but a hairy, bipedal, legendary monster living in the snowy mountains.

In the late 19th and early 20th century, the snowman became the butt of mean-spirited fun, often shown being abused by children in popular advertisements or suffering embarrassing hygiene problems.

The popular holiday carol, “Frosty the Snowman” was written and recorded in 1950 and has since been covered by artists such as Perry Como, Nat King Cole, Ella Fitzgerald, Jan and Dean and Johnny Mathis.

At Greeting Card Universe, our artists love making you smile with snowman filled with the Christmas spirit! Choose from our large selection of Snowman Christmas cards, order on-line, and we’ll either send your cards the next business day or you can take advantage of our free pick-up service, usually in 1 hour, at participating Target and Bartell Drug stores.

What Are Happy Customers Saying About Greeting Card Universe?
“I have ordered cards from here several times. They are always of good quality and the selection is beyond what you would find in any greeting card store. There is something here for everyone’s taste. Every once in awhile, I buy a selection of cards to have on hand for a variety of occasions. I loved this particular card for Christmas this year because of its simplicity”- Kimberly – December 18, 2014

Terrific Twisted Facts About Candy Canes

Corrie on December 11, 2014


The red-and-white striped candy cane has become a potent symbol of Christmas, but the sugar confection is surrounded by a confusion of legend and historical evidence. Here are some of the truths and myths regarding this favourite seasonal treat.

LEGEND: The candy cane was invented by a 19th century candy maker in Illinois to symbolize the birth of Christ (white) and the scourging and crucifixion (red).

LEGEND: A late 17th century German choirmaster invented the candy cane to help keep the children in his choir occupied during services. The crook-shape of the stick was a symbol of Christ in His role as shepherd.

These folklore tales may be charming, but they’re apocryphal; unfortunately, there is no documentation or historic fact that either of them are true.

Christmas cards and illustrations from the 19th century show the holiday candy as a simple white stick without the red stripes expected to be seen today. The peppermint flavor and red stripes were added by early 20th century American confectioners as an improvement on the product.

Greeting Card Universe helps you wish your friends and family a very sweet holiday with unique Candy Cane Christmas Cards from our collection. Choose your cards on-line and we’ll send your warmest wishes on their way the next business day!


What Are Happy Shoppers Saying About Greeting Card Universe?
“I am happy to have found the GCU website. While temporarily confined at home, this website allows me to send paper greeting cards to keep up with birthdays for family and friends. With my first purchase, I was unsure of the service or card quality. I ordered 4 cards sent directly to the recipient and 5 cards mailed to me. I enjoyed being able to enter a personal message. All were pleased with the cards they received. This was a positive experience and am looking forward to placing my next order.” – Glenda – December 9, 2014

5 Fantastic Facts About Christmas Cookies

Corrie on December 2, 2014


The Christmas cookie tradition comes to us from medieval times, when the pagan Solstice or celebration of the Winter Equinox was absorbed into the Christian religion to become a time of year honoring the birth of Jesus Christ. Here are five amazing facts about the now commonplace Christmas cookies we make and exchange (and enjoy eating) during the holidays.

Spicing Up the Kitchen: Cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, ginger, cloves, even peppercorns,  dried fruits and nuts like almonds became more available to cooks in the Middle Ages, who used these strong, aromatic spices in both sweet and savory dishes for ordinary dining and for feasts. The smell of these spices has become very much associated with Christmas.

Gingerbread’s Long History: From Greece in 2400 BC to a simple treat composed of spiced breadcrumbs and honey formed by molds into shapes enjoyed by Crusaders, gingerbread became a popular treat in Europe in the 1500s. In the 17th century, spekulaas—a type of gingerbread cookie in the Netherlands, traditionally formed in the shape of St. Nicholas or Sinterklaas—became associated with Christmas time.

The Dutch Again: The word “cookie” comes from the Dutch koekje, meaning a small cake. The first time the America English ” cookie” appeared in print was 1703,

Cookie Exchanges: The first cookie swap advertised in a newspaper took place in 1917. During WWII, the women of many communities exchanged cookies with one another. Associating Christmas with a cookie exchange began taking place in the early 1950, becoming quite popular by the 60s.

Animal Crackers On Your Tree: The popular animal or circus crackers were first produced in 1902. The colorful cardboard box printed all over with a circus wagon theme was sold during Christmas of that year as an edible tree ornament and continues to be produced and exported all over the world.

Greeting Card Universe wants to sweeten your Christmas holiday with our unique selection of Christmas Cookie cards, Gingerbread Cards, and Christmas Cookie Exchange Invitations for your special holiday needs. Order on-line—it’s easy—and we’ll mail your cards the next business day.


What Are Happy Shoppers Saying About Greeting Card Universe?
“Awesomely beautiful and free customizing to make them personalized! Shipped amazingly quickly. Have Never found a Company this flexible and everything shipped immediately – try them!!” – William – November 19, 2014

Time to Kick the Habit!

Corrie on November 17, 2014


The Great American Smokeout® sponsored by the American Cancer Society occurs annually on the third Thursday of November. In 2014, the event will take place on November 20th around the country.

Addiction to tobacco products by one in five Americans is a major contributor to  life-threatening diseases like cancer. Quitting smoking cigarettes, cigars and pipes decreases the chance of illness and preventable death, and increases overall health.

Since smokers are much more likely to quit if they’re given encouragement, the Great American Smokeout® offers a chance to participate in support programs, telephone hotlines and special events held by many organizations. At the very least, it’s hoped that if a smoker stops smoking for one day, they’ll find the strength to stop smoking forever.

Greeting Card Universe offers our respect and encouragement to those who choose to kick the butts! Send your own message of support to someone who’s setting aside their habit with Congratulations/Quitting Smoking cards. Order on-line and we’ll put your card in the mail the next business day.


What Are Happy Shoppers Saying About Greeting Card Universe?
“I am the coordinator of the Military Ministry at my church. We send out cards to our active duty in November along with a gift card. When I went to purchase cards at the end of October the only store where I have been able to find military cards reasonably priced was sold out. I started to panic, but did a web search and came to your site. The card I liked was on sale so I ordered them hoping they would be worth the money. When I received the cards I couldn’t believe it they were beautiful. Much nicer than I had expected. I will definitely be ordering from Greeting Card Universe again. I am a very happy customer.”- DIXIE -November 14, 2014

All the Trimmings: The Thanksgiving Turkey

Corrie on November 5, 2014


Thanksgiving in the United States, declared a national holiday in 1863 by President Abraham Lincoln,  is celebrated annually on the fourth Thursday in November. Traditionally, Americans sit down to a feast featuring turkey (or another protein), stuffing, side dishes such as mashed potatoes, gravy, sweet potato, corn, etc., and often enjoy pumpkin pie for dessert.

These days, turkeys have been bred and reared to provide as much breast meat as possible. Our ancestors, however, hunted wild turkeys for the dinner table. The turkey is native to the American continent, so when early European travelers encountered this strange new species, they quickly adapted it as the fowl of choice for holiday celebrations. The turkey was  large enough to feed an entire family.

To the colonists, domesticating the wild turkey made sense. The birds fattened up nicely, the meat was flavorful, and killing a turkey for the table was a better option than a chicken since hens were more valued for their eggs. When turkeys were brought to England in the mid-1500s, they became people’s preferred feasting food, supplanting the customary goose.

The number of farms breeding turkeys increased in the 1940s, eventually leading to the white feathered, large breasted turkey familiar to modern cooks. In fact, the turkey carried by most supermarkets is the Broad Breasted White. As its name suggests, this bird was bred to supply lots of delicious white breast meat and can weigh as much as 50 pounds!

Greeting Card Universe helps you celebrate the holiday (and the delicious turkey on your table) with unique Thanksgiving cards designed by our  community of talented artists. And you won’t leave anyone out of your family feast with our one-of-a-kind Thanksgiving Dinner Invitations.


What Are Happy Shoppers Saying About Greeting Card Universe?
“Love, Love, Love the cards @ Greeting Card Universe!! It’s such a time saver for me. I can go online, review the cards, add my personal greeting & with a few clicks, my card is on it’s way! I send a lot of cards & frequently rec’v a discount which is great. It all helps! Highly recommend GCU!!” – Janae – November 4, 2014

Cat-Astrophic Halloween

Corrie on October 29, 2014

When witches go riding,
and black cats are seen,
the moon laughs and whispers,
‘tis near Halloween.
—Author Unknown

On National Cat Day, we ask: why are black cats in ;articular associated with Halloween (October 31)? A midnight-furred kitty, yellow eyed, spiky, back arched and howling, has become a highly visible and immediately identifiable Halloween symbol. While felines have been objects of superstition for thousands of years, what’s the connection with the spookiest holiday of the year?

Black: The color black is, in many cultures, symbolic of death, darkness and/or evil. Humans fear the unknown because the dark hides unseen dangers.

Nocturnal: Cats are nocturnal predators, hunting prey once darkness has fallen. They’ve got excellent night vision, are light on their feet, quiet, and enjoy hiding in ambush. These qualities make some people feel uneasy around cats and likely helped give rise to the cat’s history as an object of of both reverence and fear.

Witches: It was believed in some parts of the world that when threatened, a witch could turn herself into a cat. Particularly in Europe and North America, black cats—the color of evil—became witches’ familiars, their servants who assisted them in committing bad deeds and casting curses. Cats are also associated more with female/women and were believed to have special powers, further enhancing the connection to witchcraft.

Because of these associations, many superstitions have arisen about our feline friends.

Greeting Card Universe loves our feline friends and wishes everyone a purr-fectly fine, fun and safe Howl-oween! There’s still time to grab unique, super spooky cat Halloween cards if you order on-line. Buy 5+ cards, get free in-store pick-up, usually in 1 hour, at most Target and Bartell Drug stores.

What Are Happy Shoppers Saying About Greeting Card Universe?
“I love your cards and especially happy with your Halloween selection! Love being able to personalize, as well! Delighted to have found Greeting Card Universe! Everyone I show loves them!!!” – ANNETTE – October 25, 2014

A Very Vintage Victorian Halloween

Corrie on October 23, 2014

Apples hanging in a row,
Flaming candles all aglow.
Witches flying everywhere,
Magic music in the air.
There’ll be mischief now I ween
On this mystic Hallowe’en!
—Anonymous, 19th century Halloween card

In America in the 19th century, October 32, the night of Halloween or All Hallows Eve, was a young person’s holiday centering around parties and games rather than trick or treating. Beyond bobbing for apples, they used their imaginations. Here are five Victorian parlor games for Halloween that are unusual and scary fun for all the boys and ghouls.

Spearing Apples
Apples are set afloat in a tub of water. Guests attempt to spear an apple by holding a fork above their head and letting it drop. Prizes are given to the successful. Unsuccessful guests must pay a forfeit.

‘Round the Circle
Twigs are gathered into a loose bundle. Everyone who wants to play sits in front of a fireplace and selects a twig. As each guest  sets his/her twig on fire, they must tell a ghost story that lasts as long as the twig burns. When the twig goes out, the next person in turn lights their twig and takes up the story.

Test of Colors
Ribbons of various colors are collected. Each girl puts on a blindfold and picks a ribbon. The color of the ribbon is supposed to predict which college/university her future husband will attend.

Nutcrack Night
Little boats made of walnut shells holding lit candles are set afloat in a tub of water by each guest. Predictions are made based on the boat’s movements. For example, if two boats collided, a shared future was predicted, and the first boat to reach the other side of the tub belonged to the person destined to marry before everyone else.

Mistletoe
Although  modern Americans consider mistletoe more fitting to the Christmas holiday, in the late 19th century, newspapers reported the custom of kissing girls caught under mistletoe on Halloween.

Greeting Card Universe wishes you a safe and frightfully fantastic night with unique vintage and other Halloween cards from our one of a kind collection. Order on-line and we’ll put your ghostly greetings in the mail the next business day. Or get free in-store pick-up, usually in 1 hour, at many Target and Bartell drug stores.

What Are Happy Shoppers Saying About Greeting Card Universe?
“I came across Greeting Card Universe in Feb. 2014 when I could not leave my house to purchase cards because of all the snow here in Michigan. When the cards arrived, I was very impressed with the promptness of delivery, the vast selection, quality of the cards and especially the reasonable prices. I have continued to purchase ALL cards as it has proved most convenient. I especially think The Whimsical Hat Lady cards are most unusual & just plain fun. Will contine to purchase all future cards from Greeting Card Universe. Thank you & continue to give us excellent cards.”- Tanis – Monroe, Michigan – October 21, 2014

National Pasta Day

Corrie on October 16, 2014


October 17 is National Pasta Day in the United States, where the average consumer munches through nearly 9 pounds of pasta per year. With a variety of pasta shapes and lots of choices for sauces, pasta is considered a culinary staple as well as nutritious and delicious.

While a popular myth has the explorer Marco Polo bringing pasta to Italy after his legendary voyage to China, the truth is somewhat less fantastic. In 1296, for example, before Polo’s return, a trade in obra de pasta was already well established in Sardinia. So who invented pasta? We don’t know, but we’re glad they did.

Greeting Card Universe celebrates National Pasta Day and National Pasta Month with fun and unique Pasta Themed cards for birthdays and party invitations. Order on-line and we’ll put your cards in the mail the next business day, or if you’re in a hurry, get free in-store pick-up, usually in 1 hour, at many Target and Bartell Drug Stores.

Andiamo a mangiare!


What Are Happy Shoppers Saying About Greeting Card Universe?
“Wow, I was pleasantly surprised at the service and quality of these cards. Planning ahead and buying in groups made the pricing even more ridiculously wonderful! Fast turnaround and the freedom to customize. I have found my go-to place for cards. Thanks! Signed Happy in West Michigan.” – Connie Westgate – October 11, 2014