One last little bit about the St. Louis trip.
Before we left, we asked the neighbors to keep an eye on the house. All of in the area look out for each other, so this was no big deal. They said they would have their daughters collect the mail and newspapers while we were gone. As always, we offered to pay them for the services. It is a nice way of showing our appreciation, and it gives the kids a chance to "earn" some money, as well as teach them about saving and stuff like that.
We were told it wasn't necessary. Yeah, right. I like to keep my credit good with anyone who does me a favor. So we said we'd pick up something for the kids in St. Louis. That was OK with them.
At the zoo, we picked up a couple "Beanie Babies" and some mini-snowglobes, with animals the zoo exhibits in them, (no billy, not the REAL animals - I could hear that one coming). When we got home, we dressed up the presents for the girls.
Today, we finally caught the family at home and gave them the gifts. Within minutes, we had thank you notes from both of them.
Now, THERE is a nice gesture that seems to have lost ground in today's society. Getting the thank-you's was better than getting a gift in return. Well, I guess it is a gift in it's own way.
It still meant a great deal to us. I think we'll be using those kids again. Can't beat good manners.
Don't remember the last time I got a thank you note from someone under the age of 30 (I think I am being generous with the age - it should probably be higher). I must admit, I usually send my thank-you's via email, but at least I do get them sent.
Posted by: Bogie | October 26, 2003 at 02:45 AM
I know I'm as guilty as the rest of the world. That is why I took the time to praise the girls. It is an admirable trait and makes one aware of their own shortcomings. Myself included.
Posted by: Wichi Dude | October 26, 2003 at 10:56 AM
I'm occasionally bad about delays in writing my thank yous, but I get them done. My youngest sis is VERY good about teaching her daughters to write their thanks, so we are very careful to send them thank you notes when the chance arises. It's the one place where I adhere to old fashioned manners and hand write. Unfortunately, I'm at a keyboard so much these days you can barely read my hand writing, but I still make the effort.
One of my older sisters has assured me that it is NEVER too late to say "Thanks!" That reminds me....I have a note I have to write.....
Posted by: Buffy | October 26, 2003 at 04:22 PM
You're welcome for that reminder. LOL
Posted by: Wichi Dude | October 26, 2003 at 04:32 PM