How to Write a Great Thank-You Note

How to Write a Great Thank-You Note

Writing a thank-you note has long been perceived as a chore, especially painful for children, who don’t understand that civilization just might fall apart without such social niceties. It can seem like a race to get to the part where you sign your name (with great...
How to Write a Great Thank-You Note

Dear Santa Redux

We all love our holiday traditions, be they Black Friday sales, polishing up the menorah, or, as in my household, trudging into the Bureau of Land Management forest up in the foothills to find the perfect tree, only to forget the tree-cutting permit and get the truck...
How to Write a Great Thank-You Note

It’s All About the Relationship

One of my favorite clients was laid off yesterday. She was upbeat when breaking the news—she’s amazing, and will land a great new job in no time—but I’m sad. I will miss working with her, visiting her, and lunching or cocktailing at various spots in the Ferry...
How to Write a Great Thank-You Note

Surfing Words

The ocean captivates, its countenance fickle. Now darkness. Cold, frothy giants pound in unrelenting rhythm, giving no purchase to board or fin. Now light. A twinkling surface throwing back the glow of sun, a glassy caress of warm water—then a clean line easily...
How to Write a Great Thank-You Note

How to Write a Great Letter to Santa

Crafting a compelling direct appeal letter is all about timing, tone, and attention to detail. Take your basic Letter to Santa. Sure, you could crank it out on mom’s PC to show St. Nick how clever you are (and, therefore, worthy of his attention) by: Ramping your wish...