Why make cards?

I've often wondered what motivates others to make cards, when they are available to purchase.  I make them for several reasons:

1. I like to personalize cards for the recipient.  I like cards that appear to be made especially for me.  I assume others do also.
2. I enjoy creating artistic things.
3. I have so much 'stuff' accumulated that I want to use it up so it doesn't get thrown away when I'm gone.

Why do you make cards?  Do you keep them or mail them?  I've heard others say in their blogs that they don't like to part with their art after creating it.  I avoid this by thinking of the recipient when designing cards.  Besides, my creations aren't that spectacular.  I make cards to make others happy and thought about.

I've been fighting health issues and not making many cards lately.  Here is the latest card that I made.

I made this for a male relative who is working on health issues, with diet and exercise.  He is seriously working on improving his health and I think he will understand my message for his birthday.  I looked for a sentiment for the inside of the card and chose this one:

Since I'm trying to use up my supplies and not add to them, I used very old stamps that I've had for years.  I know the stamps will outlive me, but I have to use the perishable supplies.  I still have lots of cardstock and ink, but the ink pads are gradually ending their use.  Even some reinkers are no longer usable.

Spring birthday

I made this card for a special female relative who lives in Colorado.  The columbine is the state flower of that state.  While the card was in progress, there was a challenge on Gingerwood Bulletin Board to make a card with texture.  I decided to use a Darice embossing folder on the background paper.  I added some Brilliance ink to the raised tree and stamped the birthday sentiment on the tree trunk.  The butterfly is made with a Martha Stewart punch.  Only the body of the butterfly is glued to card and pearls added to body for more texture.  The butterfly wings are free to be raised.