A recent topic here got me to thinking. I have always been pretty good about writing thank you notes. What I finally realized, however, is that even though I moved out of my parent's house over a decade ago, they have NEVER written me a thank you note. Never. Not one. Not for any gift. They've received many store-bought gifts, but also countless cross-stitched pieces, crocheted afghans, and now a quilt.

What do you guys think? Is it appropriate for a mother to write thank you notes to her children once they are grown and leave the nest? I think so, but I would like to hear your thoughts on this.

A thank you note would be nice. But a mother can show her thanks many ways.

Thank you notes are always nice, but not something I would expect from my DH or kids....and I don't think it ever occurred to me to write one to them. When we give each other something, the hugs and kisses (actual or virtual if the recipient is half way across the world) are the thanks and received when the gift is given.

I guess I should add that my mother very clearly taught us to always write thank you notes, and she complains incessantly now when my brothers don't write her one. In our case, she has taught us that they are expected of family, but she doesn't reciprocate.

well- sounds like maybe that should be a little friendly talk over tea- hey mom- you know you gripe about my brothers not writting thank you cards- when did you write your last one? i've not ever got one from you- don't we teach by example?

ditto

for some reason this reminds me of the old song, "No Charge" - anyone else remember it?

Do you thank you in person, over the phone...do you show up appreciation..to me that is really what counts more than a note it the mail...to me i like seeing their faces when I give them something they love..

My mother always wrote a note. Not just to thank me, but also to let me know that the gift had arrived.

I enjoy receiving a thank you note. More than that I enjoy seeing the recipient's happy face when opening the gift. Top of the list is seeing the gift being used & enjoyed.