The Queen has no truck with twelfth night tradition and keeps her decos up while she remains at Sandringham until Accession Day (6 Feb). This must be true, I read it in The Lady's Christmas edition.

However, in the less regal environs of Francis Towers last night was time to take down the seasonal gewgaws and baubles. I'm already missing the soft glow of fairy lights and the happy-making view of cards on the sideboard.

Gathering up said cards involved a fresh inspection of the selection, and a few favourites came to the top of the pile. Westdale Press for making me laugh out loud, John Charnock at Print Research International for his choice of a stylish retro letterpress variant from Blush Publishing, Garnett Dickinson's clever personalised version featuring my name written in snow on a windscreen (very apt for this year), various cards featuring works of art by the offspring of friends and family, along with a suitable smattering of cute robins.

I was particularly pleased to receive some cards produced by Art Angels of Norwich, as I'm always buying items from their range for other people. This business, with its focus on the work of printmakers working with a distinctive range of techniques including linocuts and woodblock, is a great example of someone creating their own niche in what is a crowded market.

Chatting to the firm's managing director Chris Cordingly this morning, it was also great to hear him talk enthusiastically about his preference for using a local printer (Crowes), the importance of his relationship between them, and his appreciation of the alchemical results the right choice of print and paper can bring. Check out an Art Angels card for yourself and admire the combination of felted, textured cardstock and pin-sharp printing.

Last but not least, kudos to Andrew Moss at AM:PM who has excelled himself this year by producing an acceptable e-card. This being a Christmas card hand-cut into the shape of a capital E. "You are holding the world's first recycled e-card. It is fully recyclable, environmentally sound and rather jolly. To open this e-card - open it!"

Such are the things that provide a warm glow even after the Christmas lights have been packed away.