How to Write Thoughtful Thank You Notes

Wrap It Up

Another easy and thoughtful way to create a personal thank you is to "use the wrapping paper to create a pretty note card," says Spizman. "Cut out a heart from the paper and glue it to colorful card stock." Additionally, there are a variety of paper punches available in numerous shapes—making punching hearts, moons, or whatever shape you choose quick and easy. Gift-givers will be touched you took the time to save part of the wrapping paper and the patterns used on baby gift wrap are just perfect on a little thank you card.

The World Wide Waaaa

Despite her ban on email thank yous, Mitchell says a website with baby pictures can be a nice addition to a thank you note. "It's fun to see baby websites with pictures ... it does make for a nice break from one's computer driven workday. Often the photos show the parents in 'real life' situations that are very human and lovable."

Parents need look no further than BabyZone for the perfect place to set up an easy-to-use personalized baby photo album and developmental milestone tracker that can be shared with friends and family. Include the URL in your thank you note—you'll enjoy the notes visitors leave in your baby's guestbook!

All in the Family

Getting the whole family involved in thank you notes makes them more meaningful and fun to create. "If you have another child, he or she can the draw the new baby," says Spizman. "Photocopy these and use them as your thank you notes." Be sure to include a byline for your little artist. If your other children are old enough, suggest that they write the inside of the note while you address the envelopes. Photos of siblings together also make a nice addition to any card. And don't forget about the new daddy! If the two of you divide the note writing, things will go much faster.

Thank you notes don't have to be a chore. Think of them as a way to share some of the joy your new baby has brought! Congratulations!