Sending Sandy-Grams

For those fortunate enough to be back in their homes after "urban camping," it's time to send a thank you. You can't go wrong with a thoughtful thank you note, perhaps from Greenwich Letterpress or Sugar Paper.

[Typewriter Thank You - Sugar Paper]

[Big Thank You, Blue Raspberry - Sugar Paper]

[Thank You Caligraphy, Black - Sugar Paper]

If you're able to splurge on a gift, here are some ideas -

The Gift of Cleanliness Even if you tidied up here and there while crashing at your friend's place, it can't hurt to send in a professional to do the dirty work - pun intended. Hire a cleaning service to make sure your host's place gets spic and span post Sandy.

Household Items Your gift need not be fancy. A functional gift can be wonderful, especially if you depleted your host's supply of paper towels, toilet paper, etc. Send a special delivery from drugstore.com or FreshDirect with household items. Replenish what you used and also add something thoughtful like your host's favorite hand lotion or candy.

Edible Arrangements You can't go wrong with giving something sweet. If you're tight on cash you can bake a batch of cookies and hand-deliver them. Whip up whatever dessert your Sandy host loves. Or order something delicious online. We got personal and ordered a pecan pie from our gracious host's favorite BBQ joint. (He's from Texas.)

P.S. As discussed here, I think you have a one-month grace period after you've returned to relative normalcy to send a little somethin' somethin' to your super-storm host.

P.P.S. While you're in the giving mood, donate to those still seriously struggling.