Short Christmas letter ideas

Stuck on what to say? Every example here fits in 200 characters, so it fits in a Dear Xmas ornament as is.

For a friend
For family
For a partner
For a coworker
One-liners

Don't copy an example word for word. Add one line only the two of you would get. That one line is how they'll know the letter was written for them.

For a friend

When I think about the days I laughed hardest this year, you were there for all of them. Let's stop saying "we should hang out" and actually do it. Once a month, deal?

For an old friend

Thanks for listening to me ramble until 2am. I still think about what you said that night. Hot chocolate is on me this winter.

For the friend who showed up

Different time zones, same group chat. Hearing from you always makes my day. Video call on Christmas? I'll stay up for it.

For a friend far away

We only met this year, but it feels like I've known you forever. Come to the holiday party, and bring that terrible playlist.

For a new friend

For family

Mom, every call starts with "did you eat?" and honestly, that kept me going this year. I'm bringing the pie this time. Love you.

For Mom

Dad, I'm better at writing this than saying it: thanks for believing in me this year. Let's go fishing in the spring.

For Dad

Thanks for putting up with all my complaining this year. I think I finally grew up a little. Dinner is on me.

For a big sister or brother

Grandma, your cookies are still the best thing about December. Save me a seat at the table. I'll be there.

For a grandparent

For a partner

Our second Christmas together. Last year I was nervous; this year you're the most comfortable place I know. I'll hang a letter here again next year.

For a long-time partner

I've been busy and you've been patient. Thank you for always smiling first. On the 25th, my phone goes in a drawer and it's just us.

When you owe them one

Winter got better when I met you. Walking home holding hands in the cold was my favorite part of this year. Merry Christmas.

For your first Christmas together

We can't be together this year, so I'm hanging this early. Open it on Christmas morning and call me. I'll be waiting.

For a long-distance partner

For a coworker

This year was a lot, and having you at the next desk made it easier. Thanks for every "quick question" you answered. Have a restful break!

For the person at the next desk

I learned more from you this year than from any training. Thanks for saying "it's fine" when I messed up. Looking forward to next year.

For a mentor

Thanks for steering the team through a busy year. Please mute Slack on Christmas. We mean it.

For your manager

One-liners

When a long letter feels like too much, one line is enough.

You made this year warmer.

Let's stay exactly like this next year.

No worries on Christmas. Just laugh.

Miss you. See you soon.

Whenever I think of people I'm grateful for, you come first.

Found a line you like? Hang it on a friend's tree, or make your own and start collecting letters.

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