Dear Jewish Fairy Godmother:

For the last six weeks I’ve been laid up after surgery. I had a variety
of helpers early in the process, whom I paid $10-20/hr until I figured
out whose style worked with my cleaning standards and healthcare
needs. I eventually settled on a woman who rents a room from one of
my friends down the block. She’s intelligent, helpful, and very useful.
I’ve paid her $5-10 more per hour than anyone else for the last
month. While it’s cost a lot of money, it’s really felt worth it, though
thankfully I am using her less each week. Now that the holidays are
coming, I’m trying to figure out how I can say a special “Thank you” in
ways that are not monetary. Do you have any good ideas?

Generous, But Running Out of Cash

 
Dear Generous:

I’m among the people in life that doesn’t like gift cards. While
recipients may like the discretion of choosing their own gift, I think
just giving a coupon is not nearly as personal as a gift that feels
chosen. So I’d make up a gift box for your help that covers the gamut
of a day. Perhaps a special soap, something attractive to wear, a pair
of earrings, and something wonderful to eat, whether that’s fancy
chocolate or baked goods. Most importantly, I would include a very
personal handwritten card that says, I appreciate everything you have
done in ways beyond what money can express. My healing would not
have been as strong or fast if you were not in my life. Thank you,
thank you, thank you. Best wishes for the new year.