How do you thank people for amazing things?

[summer]

My friends back home in Chicago have really really come through in helping my mom when I reached out to them. Some of them are people that I haven't seen in 15 years, one is even my old elementary school teacher, now 80.

They've gone to her house, helped her sort clutter and paper, moved furniture,...all at a moment's notice. I don't know if she will pass her 2nd housing inspection, but people came through for us regardless of outcome.

I am so so touched by their kindness and living far away everything I say on the phone or email sounds so inadequate. I don't have a lot of extra cash, but any suggestions on what I can do to express my gratitude to them. It brings me to tears every time I think about it and I want them to know how much it means to me.

[basilosaurus]

That's awesome! I tend to think that people who do that sort of thing are more touched by a heartfelt note than any type of gift compensation. I'd say something like a flower arrangement and a really good heartfelt letter would suffice. They're not in it for the starbucks or target gift card; they just want to help you. At least, that's how I'd feel. A good letter means more than a gift card.

And flowers, though I'm not a huge fan in general, have meant a lot for me when I've received them. I recently lent a friend, new to the island, my old bike. It needed to be fixed, she took care of that, and she got me just a few tropical flowers. They're alive after weeks, and everytime I look at them, I'm all warm and fuzzy about how she appreciated the help I would have gladly given with no compensation.

[EloiseWeenie]

I agree with a hand written note. Maybe you can mail some German goodies (that won't melt).

[gpw]

I'm actually sort of struggling with the same thing for the people who donated blood for me. It may have been a simple act for them (which all have said it was), but for me it was such a big deal.

I'm going to keep an eye on this thread...

[2vermont]

Jun 18, 2012 7:26:09 GMT -5 gpw said:

I'm actually sort of struggling with the same thing for the people who donated blood for me. It may have been a simple act for them (which all have said it was), but for me it was such a big deal.

I'm going to keep an eye on this thread...

How are you feeling??

[gpw]

Jun 18, 2012 7:33:58 GMT -5 2vermont said:

Jun 18, 2012 7:26:09 GMT -5 gpw said:

I'm actually sort of struggling with the same thing for the people who donated blood for me. It may have been a simple act for them (which all have said it was), but for me it was such a big deal.

I'm going to keep an eye on this thread...

How are you feeling??

I feel amazing. I didn't realize how bad off I was until after I got the blood. Sadly, I still have to get the iron infusions, but I can't believe the difference the transfusion made. Thank you for asking!

[summer]

gpointe - I am so happy to hear you are feeling better. Please keep updating us.

[thejackpot]

I really don't think there is something you can do for them per se but a nice handwritten note is always welcome.

[Deleted]

I agree that a nice handwritten note and maybe flowers.

Or if there's somewhere related to how they've helped you, you could make a donation in their name - maybe a senior center, Meals on Wheels, etc.

[thejackpot]

gpointe~ so glad you are doing better!

[lys]

People indeed are amazingly kind and giving and many are just waiting for the opportunity to do something to help another.
A personal phone call or card if you cannot call saying exactly what you have said here would be more meaningful than any thank you gift.