In Pursuit of the Perfect Pen Pal

Do you love having pen pals, but have been frustrated with the frequency or quality of the letters you've received in the past? Or perhaps you really would like to establish a true postal friendship with someone you jive with, but you haven't quite been able to find that special person yet. Or maybe you'd just like to have a loyal swap partner who shares your love of a certain craft. Well, here's where I hope this swap will assist you in finding the "perfect" pen pal!

Here's the plan. You will have 5 swap partners (I think this is reasonable because it should only take 1-2 stamps for each letter you'll be sending). Besides, this increases the chances of finding a great pen pal.

Send each of your partners a letter; it can be typed or handwritten, whichever you prefer and use most often. Introduce yourself thoroughly, and then write about what you are looking for in a pen pal. The key here is to be clear and descriptive... For example: If you don't want to be pen pals with someone who only writes once every 6 months, say that. If you're looking for someone who loves to read and discuss books, say that.

Some ideas of things to include in your letter:

• frequency - will you write once a week, once a month, etc.

• style - do you prefer handwritten letters, typed, or both

• swap - would you rather just exchange letters, or would you like to do an occasional swap

• beliefs - if you'd like to share beliefs/politics/etc. with your pal, or if those do not matter to you in a friend

• age - if you'd rather write to someone close to your own age, say so, or state an age range

• lifestyle - moms looking for other moms, dog lovers looking for other dog lovers, health nuts looking for other health nuts, etc.

• hobbies/crafts - if you'd like to have a pal who shares your love of a specific hobby or craft

• rather-nots - whatever you'd "rather not" have :)

Make your letter in the same style that you would send a special friend. Decorate it, tuck in a few stickers or something, put some love in it!

USA participants only, please. If this swap is successful, I will start another one soon for those who want to participate worldwide.

Rating requirements: 4.5+

Newbies: Welcome with a fully completed profile.

If you have any questions, please comment below and I will answer. This is my first opportunity to host a swap and I'm very excited and I hope that this helps people find great pen pals who can become great friends.