DEAR HARRIETTE: Every time I see my grandmother -- every month -- she gives me a present. She is so sweet, and I really appreciate it. My question is should I be sending her a thank-you note every time? Since she's been doing this for years, I really haven't been writing her notes. But then I had the thought the other day that she probably would appreciate a note from me and it might even spark her to write back. It would be awesome to have letters from my grandmother to hold onto. What do you think? -- Should I Write, Orlando, Fla.
DEAR SHOULD I WRITE: Since you see your grandmother so frequently, which is a blessing, and she always gifts you, you may want to consider your note to her differently. Yes, you can say thank you for her gift, but more, share with her a few bits about your life. Tell her in regular notes about experiences you are having. Write in detail knowing that she will likely use your stories to brag to her friends about your experiences. Choose to relay positive stories that she can embrace. Hold on to your challenges and share them with your parents, friends or even a professional when needed. Older people tend to worry more, and you have no reason to give her something that will upset her.
Whenever you find that you really benefited from something that your grandmother gave you, by all means, write to her and say so. You can also provide a window into your personal preferences simply by sharing little stories with her about your daily experiences. She will surely write back and then the two of you will have a new way of interacting with each other.