My husbands father passed away unexpectantly on Friday. He and his brother drove to their hometown to handle whatever needs to be done. As they were driving, a family friend got ahold of him on the road and offered up their home for the week. My husband has wonderful memories of this family - and thanks to Facebook, they have all gotten in touch with each other. I think this was an incredible gesture, seeing as they haven't seen my husband in 15+ years. Anyway, he accepted and will be there this week. I reminded him to pick up after himself and pitch in with the chores (I don't know why I did this - must be the Mom in me). I told him to offer something monetary (which from what I know about this family - they won't accept) and if that didn't work, pick a night to take them out to dinner. In the midst of the death of his father, traveling, making arrangements, etc. - our manners can't be flung out the window. Right? After hubby gets back, I would like to send their family something as a 'thank you'. I need suggestions...I don't like doing anything consumable (flowers, fruit baskets, etc.) as it is temporary. All I know about them is they owned 3 bakeries, have 4-5 grown children and where a safe haven for any lost soul that would come along. I would like something they could have in their home that might remind them of how their generousity has carried beautiful memories through all these years...HELP?!
what wonderful people to open up their home like that. have you thought of a small tapestry with their last name embroidered on it? or maybe a light house with a small engraveing on it? the light house represents a place of safety for sailors to keep safe away from shore.
I know you said you don't like consumable gifts, but honestly, if you don't know these people very well, nor their style and taste, I would suggest a very heartfelt, personal written note. It would probably mean a lot more to them and something they could cherish forever. I know that I keep all notes that are written to any one in our family if they are written with love and meaning. I have an envelope of them and it is very nice to go back and reread them.
If you change your mind about something consumable (maybe to include with the note) check out Zingerman's bakery (it's on line). They have fabulous stuff, it is bit pricey but everything I've had is tasty treats! Good luck and I'm terribly sorry for your loss.
What wonderful people! Things like this just melt me.
I was thinking that perhaps you could find a beautiful angel to send them.
Regardless of their decor, I don't know anyone who would mind having an angel in their home.
You could include a note that says something like....We wanted to send an angel to watch over you as you have done for so many others. Your loving kindness was so very appreciated.
There are angels right here on earth and it sounds like you and your husband are blessed to have some in your lives right now.
I'm so sorry to hear of the passing of your father in law. I know this is a difficult time.
I'll keep your family in my thoughts, and thanks for sharing your story of the wonderful generosity of these people with us.
Best wishes.
Have your husband bring back a couple flowers from the service. Press them and put them in a little frame for them.
A thank-you gift that really touched me was a "Willow Tree" figurine called "thank-you". It is simple, can be displayed in any home. I love it! Whenever I see it, it reminds me of those friends whom I have touched, and they have touched me. Thank-you God for good friends!
Have you thought about a photo book with older photos of the 2 families (if there are any) and perhaps a personalized message in the back as a thank you.
You could include pictures of your father-in-law and pictures throughout the year of your husbands family.
There are lots of places that you can make photo books from depending on whether you just have the pictures or negatives, and most recent one's that are digital.
Good luck!
You've probably already gotten tons of wonderful suggestions and maybe even bought something to send them already
On the off chance you have not, I was thinking that perhaps a Peace lily plant would be ideal. These are also referred to as Calla Lily plants. If they provided a calm/peace for those in time of need throughout their years, perhaps the giving of a Peace lily would be something they can relate to and cherish themselves over the years. These plants are considered indoor plants and like indirect sunlight as well as moderate moisture. They should not wither/die if given proper care. Make sure adequate instructions for the care of the plant are provided along with the plant. They bloom beatifully white/cream flowers throughout each year.
-Jen
My condolences on the death of your father in law; it's a tough time for you all. In answer to your question, if they run out of time and your husband is not able to treat them to dinner, why not a sweet thank you card with a $25-$50 gift card for a local restaurant tucked inside? Or another gift card idea...maybe like Bath and Body Works where a lovely host couple could select a few candles, liquid soaps or lotions. I actually prefer this kind of thank you to something permanent. It seems we reach a stage sooner or later where we have too much stuff--and it's nice to be treated to something we might not buy for ourselves, anyway.
All the suggestions are great.........I just wanted to add something personalized. You can go to a Things Remembered store and find just about anything you want to personalize. But anything, from a note to whatever I'm sure they will appreciate and not expect.
What wonderful souls they are.........I'm sorry to hear about your Father-in-Law.......take care and God Bless.
