DEAR HARRIETTE: I had a wonderful summer that included spending a week with friends. They went out of their way to make sure that my family and I were comfortable and had fun. I want to thank them for their generosity. We gave them little gifts when we arrived, but it seems like there should be some kind of follow-up to cap it all off. What do you recommend? -- Filled With Gratitude, Denver
DEAR FILLED WITH GRATITUDE: Why not go the old-fashioned route and send a handwritten thank-you note to your friends? Simply saying thank you is a wonderful way to complete the circle of giving, and it happens rarely these days. Pick out a lovely card with imagery that reflects the style and tone of your friends. Then write something that specifically expresses why you are grateful for the visit you had with them. Finally, have each family member sign the note. Then put it in the mail. Receiving such a note will be sure to put a smile on your friends' faces.