The exchange of greeting cards has become a part of the American culture. Americans send more cards today than any other nation in the world. Since the introduction of e-cards people have bought fewer paper greeting cards, but Americans still buy about 6 billions of them annually. There are a lot of occasions when you can buy one: Christmas, numerous birthdays of your friends, family members, and co-workers, baby showers, graduation, Halloween, and many more. According to the Greeting Card Association, about 80% of all cards are bought by women.

Many Americans consider their pets a part of the family and that is why they include their pets' names on the card. So one day you can receive a greeting card with the following message: Happy Easter! Lots of love, Jack, Jannie, and Dexter. Or something like that: Happy Birthday! Best wishes from Anna, Michael, and Fluffy!

The International Greeting Cards Award Competition, or the Louie, have recognized the best cards each year since 1988. The judges decide on the best card taking into account their originality, impact, design excellence, value. Winners are announced in May during the National Stationery Show in New York City. There isn't just one winner, as there are many categories.

So if you want to be a part of a card-giving tradition, why don't you start with a THANK YOU card and give it to someone who deserves your gratitude?