Letter Writer of the Month - Wendy
The London Letters Pen Pal Club began its life in 2019 with the hope of bringing together letter writing enthusiasts from across the globe to celebrate the joy of receiving letters and the power of the written word.
Over the years we've grown slowly but surely in numbers each week, and we're so proud to now be a 2,000+ community of snail mailers! We have members from different countries, ages, religions, sexualities, political views, careers, disabilities, and genders - and whilst our differences vary dramatically, we are all united by a love of letters.
'Letter Writer of the Month' is a monthly journal entry where we invite one member from the club to give us an insight into their journey with letters. Some have always been letter writers from a young age, others only began when they signed up to the club. Our members all have a unique story to tell, and we hope you'll love getting to hear it.
Our Letter Writer of the Month for September is Member No.1147 - Wendy.
"It is my hope just as technology became mainstream, that the pendulum will continue to swing far enough back that we see hand written letters return to the mainstream and electronic communication fades. I hope it will help to bring our world closer together versus the divide we are currently experiencing."
Name: Wendy
Age: 57
Job Title: Retired but now a carer to family
Location: Montana, USA
Member since: October 2025
Tell us a little about yourself and how you became interested in letter writing?
My name is Wendy, and I have been providing care for family since my daughter was born 39 years ago. 8 years ago, I became my Mom’s primary caregiver as well, and retired a year earlier than planned to continue her care. I live in a very small rural area so it’s difficult to meet people. Coupled with the level of care my Mom needs, it’s almost impossible. It occurred to me maybe I could meet someone online; although not a dating site. That’s when searching for a pen pal popped in my head. London Letters was the first community I found and it was exactly what I was looking for! I could not wait to join. I love hearing people’s stories and I was excited to make a friend or 3 all across the world. So I joined London Letters.
What is it about letters that you think makes them special?
There is a component of excitement and anticipation that comes with waiting to receive a letter. You are forced to slow down. To wait. I cannot wait to get the mail each day and be rewarded with a pretty envelope and/or familiar writing, knowing it’s just for me and not a bill or junk mail.
I try to be more forthcoming with info, hopeful, open, and funny. Although I try to be funny always.
Do you have a favourite letter, either famous or one you have received personally?
I do not have a favorite one; however, I recently found one I had written to my parents in 1983!
Do you feel any positive benefits to your mental health when you write?
Absolutely! Not only with reading the letter; but, also with sitting down to compose a response. This is a form of self care for me as I need to quiet my brain, focus and organize my thoughts, and make the time to do something for me.
Describe your letter writing set up. Do you have a favourite pen or paper? Where are you when you're writing?
Right now, I write at my kitchen island while enjoying my morning cup of coffee. It’s quiet, the girls aren’t up yet, and its a great way to start my day! I don’t necessarily have a favorite pen although I prefer fine points. Another friend encouraged me to try a fountain pen. I do have my personalized stationary I have chosen and love looking for new types to use.
What made you sign up to our pen pal club and take a leap of faith by writing to a stranger?
I was looking for a way to develop new friendships and really interested in making a friend abroad. Interestingly enough, my first pen pal came from the US and we both have discussed & laughed about it. I live in a very small town with less than 1,000 people. As a caregiver it’s very difficult to go out to meet people and I am a bit shy. I really work to speak with individuals I do not know and small talk is definitely not in my wheelhouse. Hahaha I would love to build a friendship with someone over the years and look forward to traveling to meet them!
Do you believe letters still have a place in modern society?
Definitely! Look at all the stories shared in each of your new member alerts. People are looking for true connections with others both similar to them and completely opposite. It’s a wonderful way to learn new things and not from the Google or AI. Actual experiences. Slowing down, Reflection and connection.
What role do you think letters will play in the future?
It is my hope just as technology became mainstream, that the pendulum will continue to swing far enough back that we see hand written letters return to the mainstream and electronic communication fades. I hope it will help to bring our world closer together versus the divide we are currently experiencing.
What would you say to someone to encourage them to give letter writing a try?
A huge thank you to our Wendy for her time, and we hope you enjoyed getting to know her! Why not take that leap of faith and join our pen pal club too? We're always open to new members, and you can learn more about the club here.