Update Letter Advice; timing, content?

<p>Hi everyone,</p>

<p>I was wondering if anyone had any advice concerning update letters (Hail Mary's and the like). Provided the school you're hoping to hear from (but haven't yet) takes them, and you have something new to provide, when is a good time to send update letters? Since things may not get moving again until after the new year, is it better to wait and send updates in January (*with fall grades if accepted) or go ahead and send a letter of interest/in the area/etc. now?<br>
Is it ever a negative to send them or can they be just the thing to show that you really do want to hear from a particular school? </p>

<p>Any info would be greatly appreciated. My DS will be 'in the area' for 3 weeks over the winter break, but not sure if schools do any interviewing at that time. </p>

<p>Thanks so much,
CCL</p>