How to Write a Thank You Note (Giveaway)

So, a fairly big blogging occasion came and went last week without any fanfare.

I wrote my 500th post!

I wasn't really keeping track, but I guess I should have been.

So here we go with post #508 for your reading pleasure.

Let me start off by saying that I've come down with some flu-like symptoms.  Actually, it feels like my brain is rattling around in my skull every time I turn my head.  Needless to say I'm going to keep this brief.

Since you've made your list, started gathering your mailing addresses, and are beginning to send off your first letters, I'm going to skip ahead a bit to share with you some key points to keep in mind when you sit down to write a thank you note.

Have you ever started out to write a thank you note, and, as soon as you lay a fresh piece of stationery in front of you, your mind goes completely blank too?  Ironic, isn't it?  You have so much you'd like to say, but the same old boring lines seem to be the only thing that pop into your head.  This has happened to me many times.

Luckily, I stumbled on some good advice in Martha Stewart Living a few months ago, and I saved the article and kept it in my address book for future reference.  I think these key points will help anyone who wants to overcome writer's block and allow their true feelings to spill out on the page in a way that will convey their thankfulness to the recipient.  This advice comes from Margaret Shepherd, author of the book "The Art of The Personal Letter."  Here's what she says:

Rule #1  Avoid starting with "Thank You".

I am guilty of this, big time!  But every time I start with "Thank You" it feels like I've gotten to the punchline prematurely! :)  Ms. Shepherd also suggests that this shows a lack of imagination.  (Booo....)  So let's not let Ms. Shepherd (or your recipient) think for a moment that you lack imagination!  Instead, before you sit down to write, get creative about how you'll begin.  


Rule #2  Instead, begin with "You".


Shepherd suggests that it's best to start with "You".  That way, you're making the letter about the recipient instead of about yourself.  


Rule #3  Acknowledge the relationship that you have with the recipient.


I like to recall special memories that I have of that person or moments that we've shared.


Rule #4  Use conversational language.


Of course, this will depend on the degree of formality of your relationship.  Remember you can be fairly formal and still show a lot of personality in your writing.  A thank you note, by definition is personal, so be yourself.


Rule #5  Be specific about what you are thanking them for.


For instance, if you are thanking a teacher for helping you to develop a specific skill or character trait, give them examples of how you've used that in your professional or personal life.  If you are thanking them for thinking of you or serving you in some way, let them know how their service made you feel.  Be descriptive, specific, and focus your compliments on them.


Rule #6  Offer up compliments that you have received from others about the gift they've given you or share examples of the positive ways you've been affected by their kindness.


People like to hear great anecdotes.  These will be the parts of your letter that people will most likely remember, cherish, and re-read long after the note is originally received.


Rule #7  Begin and end on a positive note.


This is a no-brainer.  Be positive.  Be delightful and delighted, and express the joy that their influence on you has brought to your life.  I like to share a quick quip or repeat something that the recipient of my letter is known for saying, or that remind them of an "inside joke" that we share.


I hesitate to share links to sites that share stock phrases for opening and closing a letter, because so many of them seem so cliche!  You are original (and imaginative), and I know that what you come up with will be superior, because it will truly come from the heart.


But don't you worry, I will be returning to this topic in a future post.  Now for today's giveaway.

Today, you have the chance to win a set of 8 note cards with original artwork by

Jennifer Black Reinhardt Illustration!

Her prints are so unique and personal.  Don't you just love that little boy diving into a pile of leaves???  Such joy!  Such talent!  Her shop is full of some real treasures.

In order to be entered to win this lovely set of 8 note cards, do any of the following:

1.  COMMENT on this post.

2.  Tell me your favorite SALUTATION for a thank you note.

(How do YOU like to sign-off???)

3.  Check out JBR Illustration.

4.  Send one letter/note today.

5.  Keep up with your 5 Page-a-Day reading schedule...even if you're behind!

Try to read through 2 Ne. 25 today or just get as far as you can.

Good luck!

I will announce the winner on Saturday.

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The winner of the dbPhoto note cards box set is:

Cherry!  Comment 20, who said:

"Starting my list right now, will copy your "Once a upon a time" idea...thanks, good job on that."

Congratulations, Cherry!  Email me to claim your prize!