Bob and I are sticklers about sending thank-you notes, as addressed in this set of 3 50-word stories I wrote back in 2021:
Bob’s mother was a writer, and she owned this book:
It’s old now, but (most of) its principles still stand. It’s a short 27-page book, and 5 of those pages are about letters that must be written:
Of course, this day and age, this corollary is also true: “For example, it would never do for a young groom to reply on the telephone to a written dinner invitation from his wife’s employer!”
These are the 10 occasions for which a letter is a must — 3 of which are thank-you related:
“Thank you for the gift”
The receipt of even the most trifling gift must be acknowledged by letter.
“Thank you for the weekend”
You must write a “bread-and-butter letter” to your hostess to show that you have appreciated her hospitality.
“Thank you for the favor”
If a friend has shown special courtesy to a member of your family — if she has put herself out in any way to help you, it is imperative that you write a note to show her how grateful you are.
“Mr. and Mrs. accept with thanks”
Since all invitations should be written, it is necessary to acknowledge an invitation with a written reply.
“Bon voyage and best wishes”
To be correct, a hand-written note on your personal visiting card should accompany every gift.
“I enjoyed your letter so much”
Every letter you receive from a friend demands a letter in reply. However, if someone owes you a letter, do not stubbornly refuse to write until it is “your turn.” 😂 Write whenever you feel the urge.
“Best wishes for the holiday”
Your written message, no matter how short, means twice as much, especially at Christmas or other holidays.
“Congratulations and best wishes”
Whether it’s a new baby, a new job, a new husband (😂), or a graduation, a letter is the gracious way of expressing your pleasure.
“We hope you’ll get well soon”
A letter written to a friend who is sick is the most appreciated thoughtfulness.
“My deep-felt sympathy”
When a person is bereaved the simple, sincere expressions of sympathy you write are deeply felt and appreciated.
Here’s Bob and I waiting for our thank-you notes, if you owe us one:
Agreed.
We had senior leaders from the site in for a tour on Tuesday evening, and wrapped up around 7PM. By ~6:45 the next morning, each of the guests had a handwritten thank-you note from me (on Crane’s Engraved, the good stuff) on their desk waiting for them to come in.
You are a class act, Rob! ⋈