Wednesday, January 13, 2010

A Reader Asks-Is It Too Late for a Thank You?



"Write your notes as soon as possible, and don’t hesitate if you feel you’re late: a late note is always better than no note at all."
Emily Post


Dear Lily,
                I have never sent out thank-you cards for Christmas presents before and I really wanted to this year. Have I missed the boat, is it too late? Should I just wait till next year?

Thanks,
Paige

 There is no absolute rule as to a cut-off point for sending a thank you note but generally a show of appreciation in the form of a thank you note should be sent out within the first two weeks after receiving the Christmas gift (or any gift for that matter).
While I believe that it is never too late to say "thank you" for someones generosity, I like to write out my thank you notes as soon as the day after I receive a gift, while the sentiment is still fresh in the mind, so to speak. With the holiday season being such a busy period, preparing yourself ahead of time with some stationery and stamps makes your task a little easier, all you have to do is gather the addresses of the gift-givers and you are on your way. If you are prepared like this, it is easy to find a few minutes here and there during the few days after Christmas to jot down a genuine thank you to anyone who has shown you kindness during this holiday season. I like to believe that showing your appeciation doesn't have a 'past due date' stamped on it, a late thank you is better than no thank you at all, even if it is a month after you have received the gift.
When do you consider it too late to send a thank-you?


9 comments:

Stéphanie said...

I love your blog dear !

Melanie's Randomness said...

I don't think it's ever too late. Well if its a few years, maybe. lol. =)

Bonjour Madame said...

It's never too late. Really. The recipient of the thank you note will enjoy reading it.

Suburban Princess said...

Hi there! Thanks for visiting my blog! I grew up in Markham so not far from you!

Blondie said...

Isn't that too sweet. I don't think a nice gesture like that has a time frame. Thanks for the comments on my Gwen post honey. You are too sweet. I saw you featured her too. Great photo of her. I love her scarf! Kori xoxo

EntertainingMom said...

never too late!

Bringing Lady Back said...

I agree it is never too late, however I also agree it is best to send it when it is fresh in your mind. ;)

Queen "B" said...

Aloha,
I always say it's the thought that counts...so no expiration on it, but everyone appreciates punctuality, it's a sign of being well mannered!
Has it become a lost art?or does the intent count alone?..ok, my notes are in the mail tomorrow:)It seems handwritten notes are almost viewed as a gift these days, I mean who really uses snail mail like the old days?
I know I do...it has sentiment...Thanks for the reminder
Aloha
Brandi
Aloha wishes from across the sea
Brandi

The Style Mansion said...

Receiving a 'thank you' in any form or time frame makes such a difference.

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