Thank You Notes?

I finished writing my Thank You notes for gifts I received for Christmas over the weekend. I enjoy the process and take my time writing these notes because I want to recipient of the note to know that I appreciate the time, effort and thought they put into my gift. I also write notes to thank people for having me over for dinner or for helping me with a volunteer project. I think that this (the art of writing a thank you note) is something that should happen more regularly. Too often, we send notes via e-mail or text. I know it’s fast and easy. There is certainly something to be said for checking that item off your ‘to-do’ list. However; when someone takes time to find a perfect gift, or they take time out of their busy schedule to volunteer for a project, or they take the time to host a lovely meal I believe they deserve a small hanwritten note in return.

So, my question to you is: do you write thank you notes?

Here are my guidelines for writing a great note.

1. Thank the person for the gift (include a detailed description), the time they volunteered, or (fill in the balnk)

2. Say something about how you will use (fill in the blank) or about the event

3. Include a sentence or two about something you are doing – a new endeavor, perhaps

4. Close with something like ‘Thank you so much for your genorosity’

Keep in mind that this is a note, not a letter, so it should be brief. Also, this is a wonderful way to really show appreciation to someone who cares for you!