fivefeettall

It's your Birthday. [Insert Insult Here].

It's my good pal Kristin's birthday this week, which means it's time to go card shopping.

Perhaps it's because I don't come from an overly sentimental family (this is not a deprecating comment, it's self aware) but I sincerely believe the purpose of a birthday card, or any greeting really, is to deliver a well-crafted insult.

I have a few go-to sites to help me choose the appropriate affront for any occasion.

• Uncooked: I discovered these beauties in a little shop in Lincoln Square in Chicago. It was one of those situations where I was laughing so hard in the shop that I think my friend Lindsey was slightly ashamed. (I don't recall the name of said store, but perhaps Lindsey can leave the name below.)

• Selfish Kitty: These have been a stand-by of mine for a long time now. They never get old.

• Yours Truly: If you're a devout follower of this blog, you will know that I just discovered these a few weeks back. I intend to add them to my Rolodex of card resources. I'm also eager to browse the other card lines on Quidlip. (Sock 'ems??)

• Hard Cards: What I like about these cards is how sweet they seem on the outside, but when you open them, it's like a swift punch to the face. Happy Birthday.

In addition to these web resources, I do like to buy handmade, one-of-a-kind cards from local shops and art markets whenever possible. If a card isn't going to be funny, pretty is good too! Shop Local!