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How to write a letter.

I often talk about writing letters and I have always written them but I don't really remember where I even learned how. Over time I have learned the best way to write a friendly letter and I am giving an example below. The key with writing personal letters is don't try to be perfect. Don't spent to much time making your penmanship beautiful and all your spelling correct. Sure these things are important. No one will be able to read what you are trying to say if you scribble and misspell everything but being perfect is not the point. A few mistakes don't matter. The person receiving the letter will surely be so pleased at receiving mail that they will overlook any mistakes you made. But that does not mean you have to use a permanent marker, actually don't do that. Use a pencil especially if you are nervous about making a mistake. But don't spend the whole time erasing. Now here is an example of a friendly letter that I came up with.

1.) Dear (Name),                                                                                                             (Date.)

2.) How are you and your family? How did your vacation go? What was your favorite part?

3.) We have been very busy lately re-doing our garden. It has been nice and warm out though and our plants are loving it! Our dog is very curious about what we have been working on and keeps sniffing at the dirt that is all over us!

4.) We took a weekend to go and visit our grandparents last weekend. My sister and Grandma and I made cookies and ran through the sprinkler. Then we spent the night at their house and watched a movie. In the morning we cooked breakfast with my Grandpa and then we packed up and headed home.

5.) What else have you been doing over summer break? I have been getting into puzzles. Last week I did a 2,000 piece one. It took me six hours to complete it.

6.) I am looking forward to seeing you soon at the start of the school year!

7.) I miss you! Write me back and I will write again soon!

8.) Your friend,

9.) (Your name.)

Notes:
1. Your friends first name is fine here and don't forget the date! It is really helpful to know how long it takes mail to arrive and how long it's been since you sent/ received the letter.
2. Ask a question about something you know that they have been up to. Asking things that will help them to elaborate on your question is helpful too.
3. Tell a bit about what you have been up to. This is like the introduction in a report.
4. Elaborate! This s the body of your letter so go all out. Write everything you want to say and make it as long or short as you want.
5. Ask more questions and then give your answer to them. This is also a good spot to answer any questions they asked you in their last letter.
6. Add a conclusion note. Saying you look forward to seeing them or hearing from them is a good way to do this.
7. Put in any final notes or reminders.
8. Sign off with what ever you want. "Your friend" works well for all friendly letters but if your writing your grandmother you may want to say "love from" instead.
9. Your name here is usually signed in cursive or in loopy or fancy handwriting. You can use just your first name or your first and last name. Whichever you prefer.

This all it flexible. When I write I usually just put down whatever seems to make sense in that spot. Feel free to move things around to fit your liking especially in the body of the letter. Have fun writing and remember, don't over think it. Imagine you are having a conversation with that person and just write whatever comes into your head.
Happy writing!

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