Thank you suggestions?

[cherpep]

Recently, I was under the weather for a few weeks.  I barely had any energy, nauseous all the time, and was just plain not feeling well.  I didn't make it into work on some days, and when I did, I would collapse when I came home.  I pretty much just slept through my dialysis treatments, and was unable to contribute to the household chores (I didn't even have the energy to visit IHD during those weeks, and I missed you all).  Anyhow, my graft stopped working and 2 weeks ago I had surgery to repair it.  Docs believe that I wasn't getting good clearance during my dialysis treatments, thereby not clearing out all the toxins, leaving me feel so sick.  The good news is that since the surgery, I have been gaining my strength back and feeling much better than I have in months. 

Anyhow - I have a very special support group - during my 'down' time, several family members and friends came to my aid by bringing over meals to feed the family of 4 (my primary job - hubby does NOT cook).  I am so thankful to all of them.  Of course, I wrote them each notes to say how much I appreciated their help, but I would like to do more.  They were all very generous.  I live in the Detroit area, and like so many others, am suffering a bit from the economy.  So, I really can't buy them a token, and I'm not really sure that would be appropriate anyway.  I was thinking about having them over (1 family at a time) for a dinner that I cooked.  Just thinking about it, though, makes me exhausted.  There's at least 5 different families.  Since I work Mon-Fri, fulltime 45-50 hrs/wk, and do home dialysis 5 nights/week, the most I could do is 1 dinner per week.  But, honestly, I'm not even sure I can pull that one off, considering the cleaning, planning, shopping, and cooking.

Does anyone have any suggestions on some quick, easy meal suggestions that would be special enough for a thank-you meal?  Any other suggestions on how to say thanks?   

[pelagia]

If I was in the position of the folks that helped you, I would be happy to get a thank you note.  I wouldn't be expecting anything in return.  Maybe at some point in the future, when you have time and energy, and no one is expecting it, you can do something nice for them - maybe bake double of something, or pick up a pretty little plant on the way to someone's house.  Cooking for five families sounds like a monumental task.

P.S. I am sorry to hear that you were out of sorts.  I noticed that you were not posting much.  I am glad to hear that you are feeling better now.  

[twirl]

call Pizza Hut   

so glad you are better

thank you cards are nice

or like pelagia said -- do something when you have the energy

I know all those nice friends and family know you would do the same for them.

[Rerun]

A Thank You note was plenty.  If they have email you could send them another one with singing or something.  At the very most you could bake your best Chocolate Chip Cookies and package some up for each family.  But, you did good already.

Sorry you had problems with your access.  I hope it lasts a long time this time.

[cherpep]

COOKIES!!!  What a great idea!  I can make those when I'm feeling up to it, and not have the pressure of hosting a meal.  That's a perfect idea, and if I don't say so myself - my chocolate cookies are fantastic.  Thanks, guys!!

[del]

Cherpep those people who helped you don't expect anything in return and I am sure that a thank you is enough.  At some point they may need some assistance and you will be able to help them!! They would not want you to be exhausting yourself doing something for them.  I'm sure if one of those families was sick you would take a meal to them!!!

Glad you are starting to feel better!!

[cherpep]

You guys are all so kind.  Thanks again! 

I know they don't expect anything - I wouldn't either.  But, it seems that lately I've been taking, taking, taking, and would like to something to give back - even if it's something as simple as a batch of cookies.  I really want them to know how much they helped me - because they really did.  Words just don't seem enough this time.  They were all so generous with their time and their money, and I don't know how I would have made it through those weeks without them. 

[David13]

Sorry to hear you weren't feeling well.  I am glad the problem was discovered and I hope you are on the mend.

I think the cookie idea is a great one.  If you make a really big batch, you can even keep some for you and your family!   

[cherpep]

Good point, David.  I am married to the human CookieMonster.  He & my kids have been so wonderful during this time, I certainly couldn't deny them a few cookies.  No, they definitely would get the first few dozen. 

[G-Ma]

I'm sorry you were under the weather with your access...that does take a lot out of you.  I think it's wonderful that so many came to your aid and I know they don't expect more than a thank you, however I do think the cookies is probably the best idea if you enjoy baking and feel up to it and kids and hubby will probably help with the cookies..besides eating them.   

[okarol]

Glad you're better. It's nice to know you have such good support. 

[twirl]

I would love to bake you some cookies and send them to you to help you out
- but I'd worry myself sick thinking they will all get cracked up
I could make rice kripsie treats -- I have an altered recipe that is good
they could tell they are homemade because I am never able to cute them uniformly
no two ever look alike
maybe some other members would be glad to help
and I could send "bacon and eggs''   a really cute pretzel dessert
I WAS BORN TO HELP
AND I WOULD LOVE TOO
SO - WHAT DO YOU SAY
PM me your address -- I do not think I have it

[paul.karen]

Sorry to hear you were so down.
But glad to hear your back up and about.

I would have said COOKIES but that has been mentioned.
Wonder if i could make a kidney shaped cookie cutter :-)

Also glad your surgery has made a difference in how your feeling

[paris]

Cherpup, Hope you are feeling better.   It is hard to accept help when you are the one who helps everyone else.  The cookies are a marvelous idea.  Your family and friends wouldn't want you to stress over cooking for them or spending extra money.  But, everyone loves cookies and you can do that on days you feel up to it.   I agree with those who said thank you notes are enough, but I know you want to do something nice in return.    Pelagia had an excellent idea---cookies for everyone!!   BUT - take care of yourself first!!   

[Slywalker]

Cherpup - hope your are starting to feel better and get some energy back.  I have to agree with everyone - the support you had was fabulous and I hope the family and friends continue that support.  Folks who chip in like that when a friend is down do not expect anything and I know when I've helped it makes me feel great to have been able to contribute.  I also know how humbling it can be to have people come to your "rescue."  I was the recipient of some help like that when I was undergoing chemo treatments. 

You take care now - you will have an opportunity to give back in the future.

Sandyb