L.S. asks from Russellville, AR on May 18, 2008
Ideas for End-of-year Gifts
I'm a single mom who doesn't get off work in time to pick the kids up from school. I rely on the kindness of others (and the public school transportation system) to get my kids hoome in the afternoon. The children's bus driver is AWESOME. He genuinely cares about my kids and their safety, and he takes the time to do a few "extra" duties. He once called me on my cell phone to let me know my son had missed his stop - the driver was taking him back to the right stop after he made his regular route, so he'd be a little later than usual getting home.
Any suggestions on an appropriate end-of-year thank-you gift for this wonderful man? He's in his 60's (best guess), loves to watch sports, and is diabetic.
So What Happened?™
Thanks for your suggestions. I got a collection of items and wrote a goofy little note. For example, I got snacks - popcorn, sugar-free candy, beef jerky, sunflower seeds, trail mix, and I got a gift card to Wal-Mart for other items. I referred to the items in my note which was something like, "This may sound CORNY, but thanks for being SWEET to my kids instead of being JERKY when they're acting like A BUNCH OF NUTS. It's been a real TREAT to know you. Thanks for EVERYTHIHNG." He loved it and thanked the kids profusely. They really feel like he cares about them - there's no way to ever repay kindess like that!
Featured Answers
A.H. answers from Biloxi on May 21, 2008
P.K. answers from Tulsa on May 19, 2008
How about a book on sports greats or movie tickets or travel mug and coffee or starbucks gift certificate.
More Answers
B.S. answers from Birmingham on May 19, 2008
Looks like you have already gotten some great ideas...My husband's grandfather is diabetic, and he really likes sugar- free jelly. We gave him some for Christmas last year. You could put it in a basket with other goodies or snacks or put in a clear cello bag tied with a fun bow. I definitely agree the kids should make him a card and you should add your sentiments, as well!
J.P. answers from Oklahoma City on May 19, 2008
It sounds like your children are lucky to have such a wonderful man looking out for them. Let them make him special thank you cards. Take some card stock and fold it in half. Let one of them cut out a football and one a baseball with the seam of the fold for the seam of the card. Then they can color the laces on the balls and write there thank you inside for him. Maybe buy him a gift card for a local nice restaurant or to your local hardware store. I don't know a man who would turn down food or a chance to shop for new "toys". These heart felt gifts would certainly let him know how grateful you are for all he has done this year.
J.
P.K. answers from Tulsa on May 19, 2008
How about a book on sports greats or movie tickets or travel mug and coffee or starbucks gift certificate.
J.M. answers from Little Rock on May 19, 2008
Hey L.,
Sounds like you have a special man caring for your kids on the bus. Hand write a letter and be sure to mention how much you appreciated the special trip. Hand written note are going out of fashion, but that just makes them a little bit more special. Have your kids decorate the card. You might add a gift card to Lowe's. I haven't met a man yet who couldn't find something good there.
My Dad delivers mail and at Christmas he gets: canned nuts, homemade breads, gift certificates, (and from the not so creative) five dollar bills or checks (which are always useful).
You will think of something. In this case, this is a man who spends a lot of time with children, but is probably often forgotten when thanks are given out. He will be delighted with whatever you choose.
J.
A.H. answers from Biloxi on May 21, 2008
A gift certificate to the local grocery store would be greatly appreciated for any age. The price of food nowadays takes a big bite out of everyone's budget. I think he would love it.
C.G. answers from Birmingham on May 23, 2008
What teachers, bus drivers and other caregivers like the most is being in your kid's lives. They have developed a bond with them. I would invite him and his family over to dinner. Ask him what his favorite meal is and find a diabetic recipe online for it. Then give him and your kids time to play together and get to know each other even more after the meal. Taking the time to get to know him and the effort to make the meal especially for him will really make him feel special.
J.S. answers from Tulsa on May 19, 2008
I would think that a bag of sugar free candy and a lovely thank you note would be perfect. Everyone likes a kind word of notice when they go above and beyond. How nice you have someone watching over your children!
A.K. answers from Tulsa on May 19, 2008
As a diabetic myself I love when someone buys me treats there are so nice sugar free candies out there, My fav is the large peanut butter cups,peanut clusters, jelly beans. You could make a nice basket with candy, sugar free cookies, a sport tape like Rudy. you could also have the kids make him something there are kits out there that will allow you to print a mug.
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