<p>Ok, D2 had an athletic event recently. A parent of another member of the club (among the nicest people I’ve ever met) videotaped her performance and called to say that he would be bringing a copy of the tape to practice. I am so grateful I can’t even tell you. THe question is: beyond effusive thanks, do I offer to reimburse for the tape, buy another one? What? This wasn’t expected or asked for (but much appreciated), so how do I express appreciation without offending, and what is the proper thing?</p>
<p>Personally, I would buy a good quality tape and take it with me to the practice to give to the other parent. People always refuse money, but I think they are more likely to accept the blank tape. Stick a bow on it and a little note that says thanks and it will be harder to refuse. I’m glad you brought this up, because it reminded me that I wanted to–but forgot to–do the same for a parent who videotaped an activity my son was in. Thanks for the reminder.</p>
<p>I’ve done this many times for people (I’m one of those dads with the tripod on the aisle). Since a tape is under $2 these days, an offer to reimburse is kind of ridiculous. A thank you is great, but what I really like is when someone tells me what a great job I did, how Spielberg couldn’t have done better, etc. ;)</p>
<p>midmo - great concept, but what are your chances of getting the right kind of tape? I don’t even have a video camera, but aren’t they mostly digital these days? People can say they “taped” something even if the medium is a CD. I dunno… is there only one kind of “tape” ? Actually, that would be a funny exchange: He gives you a CD and you give him a blank tape, and he gives you a blank stare.</p>
<p>BTW, was this a very small etiquette question, or a question about teenagers?</p>
<p>Some people are just givers - they don’t expect anything back in return for their efforts. Somehow, though, they always seem to get back more that they give - in friendship, loyalty and kindnesses returned in other ways. Since the holidays are coming up, here’s another thought - you could bake this person some cookies or something like that, along with a nice note expressing your gratitude for the friendship! :)</p>
<p>I put together a Little League CD with photo highlights of the season and gave a copy to each player. One mom gave me a wrapped picture frame as a thank you! I was so touched. It was the perfect gift because I could put a photo of MY son in it!</p>
<p>I’m one of those people who often gives tapes, dvds or cds to people. I have never expected a replacement for the media. The cost is negligible and I enjoy the giving.</p>
<hr>
<p>I still don’t get the ‘was this a question about teenagers’, though!</p>