Staying Cool on a Cruise

Mindy on July 15, 2011

Taking a cruise on your vacation has become more popular than ever. These days, you can find a cruise liner and itinerary to fit every individual, family and lifestyle, taking you to exotic destinations or fun ports of call around the world.

To make sure your cruise vacation stays fun, not frustrating, here are five tips for Staying Cool on a Cruise:

  • Bring a supply of aspirin (or Tylenol), anti-nausea and anti-diarrhea medicine, sea sickness patches, decongestant, cough syrup or cold tablets (if your destination has a cold climate), sunblock, as well as extra batteries for all electronic devices. These things are available on board the ship, but they’re expensive.
  • Don’t forget to notify your credit card companies (including your bank if you plan on using a debit card) that you’ll be traveling, otherwise the company might freeze your cards due to “suspicious activity.”
  • If you’re taking children along, don’t assume the cruise includes babysitting/child care services. Ask before you schedule your trip. Bring the kids’ favorite books, games, video games, etc. to combat boredom if they have to stay any length of time in the cabin.
  • Save suitcase space by packing basic, neutral colored outfits that can be easily accessorized and worn more than once. If you plan to go on excursions, or attend formal dinners or themed events, bring appropriate clothing.
  • Carry all toiletries on-board with you. Luggage gets stacked when it’s being loaded into the ship. If your suitcase is on the bottom, there’s a possibility the bottles will break and make a mess.

More tips for making sure your cruise is enjoyable can be found at Cruise Knowledge.

If you know someone who’s going on a cruise, wish them “Bon Voyage” by sending a greeting card to let them know they’ll be missed while they’re away, or to wish them good luck and oodles of fun. Planning a Bon Voyage party? At Greeting Card Universe, we’ve got the right invitations to make your farewell get-together a smash!

What Are People Saying About Greeting Card Universe:
“Amazing quality, price and timing. I ordered on the Sunday before 4th July Monday. My invitations arrived on Wed. July 6th. I was so very pleased with the entire order beginning to end.” Marlene – July 13th, 2011

Le Quatorze Juillet

Mindy on July 8, 2011

Or Bastille Day in English.

Also known as La Fête Nationale (or National Celebration), Bastille Day commemorates the storming of the Bastille (a medieval prison and fortress) which took place in Paris on July 14, 1789, a milestone event on the road to the French Revolution, as well as the Fête de la Fédération in 1790 – the one year anniversary of the popular uprising and storming of the Bastille, and the establishment of a constitutional monarchy, which did not last long.

Bastille Day did not become an official national holiday in France until 1880, when politician Benjamin Raspail proposed a law in May. The law was adopted by the Assemblée Nationale (National Assembly) and approved by the Sénat, and proclaimed on July 6th.

“Do not forget that behind this 14 July, where victory of the new era over the ancien régime was bought by fighting, do not forget that after the day of 14 July 1789, there was the day of 14 July 1790. … This day cannot be blamed for having shed a drop of blood, for having divided the country. It was the consecration of unity of France. … If some of you might have scruples against the first 14 July, they certainly hold none against the second. Whatever difference which might part us, something hovers over them, it is the great images of national unity, which we all desire, for which we would all stand, willing to die if necessary.”
—–Henri Martin, Chairman of the Sénat, 1880

Bastille Day is celebrated every year around the globe on July 14th. In France itself, the annual and very popular Bastille Day Military Parade held in Paris and broadcast on French television, is the world’s oldest and largest such event. Greeting Card Universe help you take part in the celebration by offering an uncommon selection of Bastille Day greeting cards to exchange with family and friends, so you all can enjoy a truly bonne fête!

Dog and Cat Safety on Independence Day

Mindy on July 1, 2011

As any pet owner knows, our cats and dogs don’t handle the Fourth of July well, especially when it comes to firecrackers. But did you know there are other hazards on Independence Day that may end with you and your pet in the emergency vet’s office? Just like kids, your pets need a little extra care and attention. As a responsible pet owner, you want to do the best for the furry members of your family.

Here are three tips that will help you and your dog or cat enjoy the a safer and happier holiday.

Never use fireworks around pets. This sounds like a no-brainer, but some people don’t realize just how strong a dog’s chase instinct can be. Mr. Fluffy only needs to jump on that one cherry bomb you tossed, and he’s in big trouble. In addition, an excited dog might jump up and try to grab a sparker out of your hand, resulting in severe burns to eyes, nose, mouth and even paws. Cats might be frightened and run away. Keep pets indoors, please.

Never leave fireworks laying around unsupervised: Unused fireworks also pose a danger. If your dog or cat chews on them, he’ll be ingesting poisons like arsenic and potassium  nitrate.

Never take your pet to a public fireworks display, even on a leash: If you think your dog finds a crowded, noisy and extremely loud public area as much fun as you do, think again.  A terrified dog reacts on instinct, and may run away or bite. Leave Mr. Fluffy at home; he’ll be much happier.

You’ll find other important tips about pet safety on the Fourth of July on the ASPCA web site.

At Greeting Card Universe, we have a large collection of Fourth of July cards, some featuring pets and animals of many kinds for you to exchange with family (except Mr. Fluffy, but only because he can’t read) and all your friends. We hope you have a bang on Independence day, and stay safe!

The 4th of July is All Fired Up!

Mindy on June 24, 2011

Independence Day on the fourth of July – a holiday sometimes called “America’s Birthday” – has long been associated with parades, barbeques, bonfires,  picnics and family reunions, as well as more public events like carnivals, concerts and – best of all from many people’s point of view – fireworks. We love to watch the spectacular sparks of brilliant color sizzling and bursting in the sky while we “ooh” and “aah.”

But when did the United States start celebrating Independence Day with fireworks?

Since making their way into Europe from the east in the 13h century, fireworks were commonly used at important public events and celebrations like religious festivals. When the Pilgrims sailed to the New World, they brought a love of fireworks with them – so much so that in 1731, Rhode Island passed a law banning the “unnecessary firing of guns, pistols, squibs or other Fire-works.” In 1751, Pennsylvania followed Rhode Island’s example.

On July 3, 1776, John Adams wrote to his wife, Abigail (regarding the adoption of the Declaration of Independence): “The day… will be celebrated by succeeding generations… with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forever more.”
(source – Life Magazine: July 4, 1955)

The first public celebration of Independence Day occurred in 1777, when America was still at war with Britain and independence seemed far from assured. Since then, we’ve come to expect magnificent fiery displays lighting up the night sky on the Fourth of July to mark America’s Birthday with a bang!

Greeting Card Universe has many humorous or patriotic ways to send a “Happy Independence Day” to every member of your family, friends, co-workers, neighbors and everyone else you want to share in the celebration and say “Happy birthday, America!” with a smile.

Take PRIDE in Yourself

Mindy on June 17, 2011

June is National Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender (GLBT)  Pride Month, first declared as National Gay and Lesbian Pride Month by President Bill Clinton in 2000, and changed to its current designation by presidential proclamation by President Barack Obama in 2009.

This month commemorates the Stonewall Riots which occurred in 1969 at the Stonewall Inn in the Greenwich Village neighborhood in New York City, marking the beginning of the GLBT rights movement.

Many cities, GLBT organizations and associations around the world celebrate by holding events, rallies, festivals and parades during this month. You can check for events in your area by visiting InterPride, a non-profit organization promoting GLBT Pride internationally since 1982.

Greeting Card Universe has a rainbow of diverse and one-of-a-kind cards for announcing gay coming out, lesbian coming out, wedding/civil union congratulations, invitations, every holiday, support for GLBT youths and adults, and a whole lot more!

The History of Father’s Day

Mindy on June 10, 2011

How did the celebration known as Father’s Day come to be observed?

“Blessed indeed is the man who hears many gentle voices call him Father!”
—Lydia M. Child

In 1909, while listening to a religious sermon on Mother’s Day, Sonora Louise Smart Dodd conceived the idea of a day honoring fathers. Her own father, William Jackson Smart, a Civil War veteran, had raised her and her five siblings after their mother’s death in childbirth in 1898, and Dodd esteemed him highly.

The very first Father’s Day, though not yet officially recognized, was celebrated on June 19, 1910 in Spokane, Washington. The idea of a day celebrating fathers swept across the nation. In 1916, President Calvin Coolidge traveled to Spokane and spoke at a Father’s Day sermon as a token of his support. In 1966, President Lyndon B. Johnson proclaimed the third Sunday in June as Father’s Day. Finally, in 1972—sixty-two years after the initial celebration—President Richard Nixon recognized Father’s Day as a permanent national observance.

Did you know in the past, it was customary to wear a red rose if your father was still alive, and a white rose if he had passed? In some countries, the tradition is still observed.

What are your plans this Father’s Day? Cooking him a delicious brunch doesn’t have to mean going to cooking school. Simple dishes, well prepared and seasoned with love, are a sure-fire hit. Need a gift? Men are notoriously hard to shop for, but you don’t need to reach for the nearest ugly tie, new wallet or bottle of aftershave. Surprise your father with a cool gift instead. You can also donate to a charity in your father’s name – what better gift could you give than the gift of helping someone who really needs it?

Whether your dad’s passion is golf or other sports, sailing, surfing, tennis, hunting, fishing or other hobbies; whether you want to tickle his funny bone or touch his heart, you’ll find greeting cards at Greeting Card Universe that will send an “I love you” on your father’s special day.

Father’s Day for All Dads

Mindy on June 2, 2011

The third Sunday in June is Father’s Day (in 2011, this falls on June 19), and sending cards and gifts to your own Dad is only part of the celebration. In recent times, it has become increasingly trendy to acknowledge all fathers for the great work they do. A friend, for example, might give another friend with children a Father’s Day greeting card. Or a mother might send one to her son, or a sister to a brother, a wife to her husband, an employee to her boss…whatever the relationship between sender and recipient, Father’s Day has become a holiday when many people pay tribute to the fathers in their lives, including grandfathers and great-grandfathers!

Dads are heroes and guides, life coaches and mediators, who love their sons and daughters. Honor, trust, faith, courage, strength, hard work and above all, love, are the things we admire and respect about our fathers, and the values that every son hopes to instill in his own children.

A Place Just for Dad
We may not shower him with praise
Nor mention his name in song,
And sometimes it seems that we forget
The joy he spreads as he goes along,
But it doesn’t mean that we don’t know
The wonderful role that he has had.
And away down deep in every heart
There’s a place that is just for Dad.
—Author Unknown

On Father’s Day, a heartfelt message from you to him is bound to warm him through and through. There’s no better gift, and no better way to express your love and thanks to the most important man you’ll ever know. At Greeting Card Universe, we have many ways you can send a hug to all the Dads who deserve to be acknowledged on their special day.

Licensed to Grill

Mindy on May 27, 2011

You may not know, but May is National Barbeque Month. Who doesn’t love the fragrance of lighter fluid, the smell of burning charcoal, the aroma of meat (or fish or veggies) charring on the grill? Especially after the dreary winter months and April’s showers. And the good news is…this is only the beginning of BBQ season.

It’s true – Americans find grilling a healthier option, not to mention preferred to restaurant dining, and it’s a whole lot of fun. It’s an opportunity to gather friends and family together to celebrate the great outdoors on beaches, in parks and in millions of backyards every summer. Even the Neanderthals loved to barbeque! And these days, finding finger lickin’ backyard barbeque recipes to try is a snap, whether you’re a BBQ newbie or a seasoned Pitmaster.

Throughout the summer, barbeque grills and smokers are fired up at pool parties, beach parties, picnics, backyard BBQs, family reunions, clambakes, birthday parties, anniversary celebrations, and anywhere folks gather outside to have a good time with good eats. Planning your party is half the fun. When you’ve picked out the goodies and stocked the cooler, choose one of our unique invitations at Greeting Card Universe to send your guests a smile.

Remembrance Never Dies

Mindy on May 20, 2011

Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard…

Although Memorial Day (May 30) is coming up soon, and it’s a time to remember fallen heroes who gave their all for their country, it’s also an opportunity for you to do something for the men and women serving today in the U.S. Armed Forces, and make a real difference in their lives. You can support our troops  in a number of ways. Here are a couple of ideas:

Any Soldier Inc., is a volunteer organization and network that helps organize the effort to get stuff “from home” to deployed military members of every branch of the U.S. Armed Forces who don’t get much or any mail. You can pay them a visit to learn about how it works and find out what you can do.

Another volunteer organization, A Million Thanks, also helps you show your appreciation through organizing letters and cards to military men and women who need your support

Letters are by far the most requested items asked for by soldiers far from their country, their friends, their family, their home. Sending a card with a note inside not only helps brighten someone’s day, you could make a new friend. At Greeting Card Universe, we have lots of one-of-a-kind ways to say “thinking of you,” or “thanks” to a soldier, sailor, submariner, airman or Marine far from home who’s hoping to make a friendly connection.

This Memorial Day, remember the fallen, and remember those who serve, too.

   

Commemorating Fallen Soldiers

Mindy on May 15, 2011

After the civil war had ended in the United States, as many as 620,000 individuals had lost their lives. From soldiers killed in action to the destruction of entire cities, combined with massive outbreaks of infection and disease, it was the deadliest war in United States history. In honor of those who had died on both the Union and Confederate sides of the war, Decoration Day was established.

Later, the name was changed to Memorial Day and after the first world war, the meaning of the holiday was extended to all American soldiers who had died in all wars, not just the civil war. Today, Memorial day is still as relevant as ever, with the thousands of American Soldiers who have died in the War on Terror, since it began in 2003. Memorial day marks a perfect opportunity for sending a Loss of Serviceman Sympathy Card. if you know a family who has recently lost a loved one.

For the families of the more than 1 million soldiers in active duty within the United States Armed Forces, Memorial Day marks a great opportunity to send out a message to Support Our Troops! Other families enjoy sending out Patriotic Cards or if you are planning a party, Memorial Day Party Invitations may better suit your needs.

Throughout the United States, it would be challenging to find a family who’s life has not been affected by the United States Armed Forces. From the early wars over slavery to today’s war on terror, the American lifestyle is a testament to those who have fought for our rights and freedom.

If you haven’t mailed out a card lately to the servicemen and servicewomen in your life, there is still time to pick your card, add your message and send your card to them in time for Memorial Day!

Your Tour Of Duty Memorial Day Party Invitation Thank You