Hmmm...
Big surprise! Karen is thinking of others! NO wonder your friends and family want to help you!
I totally agree about "paying it forward"...and about a little note to say thanks. Usually, I'd agree that it's best not to "owe" favors. But in this case, I think most people view being able to help as a "blessing to them"...they want to make your journey easier.
Having said that...I have to admit, it's easier said than done.
Most of my help came from my work colleagues. I know they didn't expect a formal thank you. Some of the meals actually came with a note attached "warning" me not to "waste time thanking them".
So, since I don't take direction well, to thank them for all the delicious meals, cards, flowers...I filled a laundry basket with snacks and fruit...tied on a thank you note, and a few festive, thank you balloons...and left it on the counter in the office. It was very well received, and because of the wonders of Costco...was very easy to do.
Friends from church...they all got big hugs, and a promise to pay it forward. (Our church is a pretty close knit community.)
My sister...does not tolerate being thanked. So, instead, I shower her kids with love and attention...watch them when she has work, but they don't have school...and try to be the same sister I've always been...just the sleepy, bald version.
Hmmm...re-reading this, I realize that I first said it was unnecessary to formally thank the people who help...then proceeded to tell you what I do to thank them. Muddied that water right up, huh?!
No need to thank me.
Denise