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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Hints from Heloise

The Spokesman-Review

Dear Heloise: I am an 84-year-old grandmother and great-grandmother. I love my little people, but fear they are growing up with no social graces. On Valentine’s Day, Easter, birthdays and special days, we send them pretty cards with a little “pin money.” Do we ever hear from them? No! All they need to do is pick up the phone and call. We do not expect them to drop a note, although that would be nice.

Children today take too much for granted and are too busy with the computer or watching television. Where are the standards we grew up with? We need a courtesy class, and soon.

Thank you so much for your fun learning column. Don’t ever give it up – it makes my day. – H.R.K., via letter

You are not alone concerning this good-manners subject. Yes, a verbal or e-mail thank-you might be appropriate for many occasions, but a handwritten one still is always appreciated.

Heloise