Thank You Notes...Lost Art?

Toys are spread all over my house. Now. Now that my children have written their thank you notes to those who were the givers of such nice expressions. One pet peeve of mine is thank you notes. Or rather, the lack of in this day and time. I think it is becoming a lost art to write thank you notes. It is becoming a lost art to write period, but especially thank you notes. I think the combination of a fast paced world coupled with the fact that manners are so many times left to the wayside are to blame.
I make my children write thank you notes if they are given something each time. My oldest son loves to tell me with each note he has to write, "None of my friends have to do this." and "But I said thank you..." But for me, it isn't enough. The rule is that one cannot play with the toy, use what is given or spend it if it is money they receive, until a thank you note is in the mailbox. Only then can they. If someone goes out of their way to do something I believe in letting them know you appreciate it.

I began this practise very young with my children. Before they were able to write, it was a "thank you drawing". Then as they began to write, I had many forms of thank you notes that were preprinted, where the kids would "fill in the blanks".

Now, it is all up to the children on what they write. But I do require more than "Thank you. Love, ___". Three or four lines will suffice, but enough to express thanks.
It is such a wonderful exercise in thankfulness. This Christmas, while writing their notes they really become aware of all that was given, be it a gift, or someone hosting a party we attended. And they are appreciative, especially in seeing it through notes of blessings scattered about the table.

J. Smooth's Thank you notes:

Bama's:

Sister Sledge's:

(click for closer view)

And while I am on the subject of thank you's....

Dear Sweet Friends,

Thank you for the gift of friendship this past year. It been such a blessing. A wonderful gift -because it has meant so much to me. Everyone should be so blessed to have such an encouraging and supportive group of people around them. I never in a million years would have thought I would have found such a community of friendship and fellowship through blogging. I am so appreciative.

I excitedly look forward to the year ahead and what all adventures it will bring.

This New Year, I want to wish you all peace, love, happiness and prosperity.

As to my friends and family- Your thank you notes are in the mail!

Sincerely, Thank you!

May you be greatly blessed.
Leigh

PS- A special "Happy Birthday!" to sweet peeps who are "New Year Babies".

Cheers to you!

"High May"

"Bob" (mine and Big Daddy's former middle school principal)

and "Grannie"