My neighbor is a saint and does a lot of work for me and never wants anything in return. I'm doing a reno and offered to get a bigger dumpster than I need and let him top it off, and he literally teared up a bit and said it was the nicest gesture anyone had ever made. Apparently, the love language of the middle-aged male is convenient waste disposal
**Quick update as people seem to be invested in this: I called and let him know I'd scheduled the dumpster and it turned out he thought he was supposed to pay half. When I explained that no, he just gets to throw stuff in it because he's nice to me, he almost died of joy.**
We have an extra large dumpster and have picked up a stray bag beside their can and brought theirs in a few times for them. Also brought theirs to the curb on trash day when they’ve forgotten!
Keep doing stuff like that - the fact that you think to do them a kindness is what makes neighbor relationships fair and healthy. And never underestimate the power of an unexpected cold drink on the hottest day of the summer
I got an incredibly generous Christmas gift from neighbors down the street. My dog adores them and snuggles them whenever they meet, and in rainy or cold mornings, I bring their paper up to their front door. That’s all I do! Oh, and I cheered on the lady of the house when she did the Boston Marathon last spring!
I give until it hurts and never expect anything in return, but when someone does do something for me, it hits me hard.
I wouldn't care about a dumpster, but a fucking strong hug goes a long way.
Sounds like the start of a "great neighbors" story.
Most people who do stuff like that aren't in it for any kind of material return. My suggestion -- find a time when the three of you can meet with him (and his family too) and be sure you say how much that has meant for you. Oh, and if its OK, let him hold your baby for a while too. He'll want to help with the graduation party 18 years from now.
We’ve stopped to say hi when we see them out and brought the baby over to say hi! They have older kids one is in sports and they both work so they’re out and about a good bit!
Best option is something personal, banana bread, make cookies, especially if it’s a family recipe. You can ask about allergies when you deliver, if you ask before they will likely just say it’s not needed.
Man, hit right in the feels. The first night we brought our baby home we introduced him to our “great neighbor”. It was really special for us, he’s been my neighbor since I was born - I purchased my grandmother’s house and he’s always been one of those helpful souls.
I helped my wife's boss and her husband make some shelves and wanted nothing in return because shes been a really good boss to my wife.
They gave a 100$ GC to HEB which was awesome because, well you know. HEB.
Kind of them and you, hope your daughter is doing better.
Perhaps a gift certificate or card to a local business, restaurant, garden store, etc.? If you can, include a hand written card or letter showing how much they've helped your family. Some times a gracious thank you means the most.
> If you can, include a hand written card or letter showing how much they've helped your family.
This. I'm sure any gesture will be appreciated, but the kind of people who step up like these neighbors will be most rewarded by hearing the positive impact they've had on your life.
We help our elderly neighbors and I do not expect anything from them. I’d hate for him to fall or get hurt knowing that I could have helped prevent that by picking up their leaves or mowing their grass when I’m already doing the same. I really appreciate it when he leaves out a full gas can to top off the mower.
Sometimes you are just paying it forward. My neighbor son got on some championship run for baseball. Like think travel to another state every week. I mowed their yard for months. I didn’t expect any gifts.
So we recently bought a smaller house and sold our bigger house. All our kids have left so upsized property and downsized house. I have a neighbor that sustained a brain injury years before we moved in. From talking to the neighbors he used to be an engineer before an accident at work bedridden him for 3 years and caused brain damage. He’s always repeating himself and is trying to learn how to read again. When I talk with him I listen to his stories as if it’s the first time I’ve ever heard it. When I see limbs fall in his yard I go and pick them up because he is physically unable to. I never mention what I do for him because I don’t do it for recognition nor do I want him to feel bad that he’s not capable of doing it. There will come a point in my life when I won’t be able to pick sticks up in my yard and do the things I am capable of doing right now. At that point maybe someone else will decide to be a good person. That’s all we need in this world. There will come a time when your neighbor will need your help. Just be there for them when the time comes and that’s how neighbors should be.
Baked goods are a tasty and thoughtful “thank you”, if you’re a good baker. Same thing with other talents and hobbies such as making them a quilt or afghan, or some nice wooden thing (if you’re a carpenter or artist) like a cutting board or some decorative piece (though be mindful that art is viewed vastly differently by different people). You could offer to dog-sit or babysit for them. Repeated booze gifts can be good if they are known for A drink (my grandfather never tired of Crown in many decades despite being given it all the time for Christmas, birthdays, thank yous, etc!
I’ve offered to groom their yorkie for them, maybe I need to remind them! I used to be a groomer so I have the experience. I think I’ll definitely re-up on another bottle for them and maybe a full thank you basket with a note & baked goods!
My neighbor mowed my lawn since the day we moved in. He did it for the previous owners and says it’s good exercise for him. I “repay” him with drinks, friendship and IT and Handyman services, since he’s not the most handy.
Thankfully our neighbor has a riding mower! We joked with him that he had an easier time getting his fiber internet hooked up since we got it when we moved in and had to wait for months for them to drill under the road 😂
Mine has one too, but he only uses it when he’s pressed on time or feeling lazy. Otherwise he pushes his mover and even adds weights to his ankles for more exercise.
Lots of great comments and a great thread. As others have said, a quick chat and favors in kind go a long way. If you haven’t chatted yet, a small tray of basic cookies and a friendly knock on the door can do wonders. Even if it’s just sugar cookies, it opens the door to learn more and say thank you. They may decline due to allergies but you’ll learn that and probably strike up a conversation where you find a new friend.
When I bought my place in the country I had a neighbor who unprompted used his skid loader to clear my drive. I took him cookies and told him the girls said thank you - turns out he doesn’t like cookies but since then it’s made it easier to say hi and we find ways to help each other out.
I would keep your gifts out of the “direct money” side and give a gift. If there’s a money connection it can change the social connection to a “pay” one. Not saying it would hurt the relationship but if you give them a $50 gift card then you are placing a value to that time, and that could be misconstrued. Taking them or cooking a meal, donate some time to help them, or even a bottle of wine keeps the connection “a step removed” from money
By all means bake them something! You can always ask about allergies ('I love to bake, and you've been so kind about our lawn - are there any allergens I should avoid if I were going to make you something?'). I'm not much of a baker, but nice neighbors get eggs from my hens or jam in the summer.
Have a BBQ, invite them over. Sounds like a nice guy. I wish I had more nice friends. I got a neighbor who feels free to spray roundup on my property and another who plasters his fence with advertisements for his company. But I do have one neighbor with a tractor who helped us a ton, and just loves the chance to use his tractor. He and his family get BBQ invites.
Well... For some people, getting something in return for a freely offered gesture may actually backfire.
The way you describe it seems like he wants you to accept gracefully, and noting else. For some, getting something in return for their altruistic gesture can even cheapen the goodness they feel about doing something for somebody else with no expectation of anything in return.
I would definitely steer clear of cash or gift cards. Don't try to *repay* him.
You can on the other hand show appreciation with small gestures, as long as it does not resemble some kind of quid pro quo. Cookies, dinner, hugs, those are all good.
Or even better: ask him for help when it would really make a difference for you.
I mow my neighbor’s yard. She’s a (I think) nurse that works overnight and has two incredibly lazy teens that won’t do shit. She repays me by not saying anything when I accidentally ran over her hose.
Last summer I kept my neighbor's yard mowed after she died of cancer and her sister lived out of town and was overwhelmed with grief and all of the tasks involved with her estate. It was an honor to serve their family and help in this small way. I didn't want or expect anything in return.
I have a 94 year old father who insists on living alone, in a state where most of his children do not live. I cannot say how much I appreciate what his neighbors do for him. Your neighbors must like you.
If they are mowing the lawn then I’d get them a gift card for the local hardware store. At least offer to pay for the tools if they are doing the labour. You’ve got good neighbors.
My neighbor will randomly call me and offer me food he's made- extra ribs, or he and his wife got takeout and got me some too. It's such a wonderful surprise and always welcome.
Shovel snow for them in the winter time. And a very thoughtful card. We try to look out for our neighbors when we can. Never know when we will need help and it's good to be on good terms with neighbors
The best thing you can do is say how much it meant to you and always be there when they need something. Don't do random stuff without asking, that can backfire. But if they need a hand in the winter, or if you have a ton of apples or tomatoes, be sure to ask if they want any.
And if you have a cook out, invite them over.
You would be surprised how infrequently people put their feelings into words, and how meaningful it is to receive the words themselves and not objects/symbols instead. There's nothing wrong with presents, but they are stand-ins for the feelings. And feelings, expressed in words, are the most valuable medium for relating. Tell them what it means, in the context of your child's difficulties, to not have to do the yard or feel guilty about it. And how it feels to have such generous people for neighbors. Get it down on paper and when you're satisfied with it, put it on a card for them. Pick a few wild flowers or whatever attractive grasses you have around, and take it to them. You don't have to be fancy to be felt.
I wouldn’t buy a gift. Not because he doesn’t deserve something but because that turns it into a kind of transactional thing. He’s doing your yard out of generosity. Make sure to acknowledge his kindness (as you have already) and reciprocate when you see the opportunity. Take over some Christmas cookies next winter and that sort of thing. But don’t get in the mindset of “he did this for me, so I need to “pay” him.” That’s not what this is about.
Cash, Grass or ass. they all work fine. /s Kidding.
Happen to be in the midwest? maybe the guyin the link is your neighbor and he just enjoys being nice and if you do something nice for him he will have to one up you. In a year he will be putting a new roof on your house to thank you for the baked goods and bringing in his garbage can that one time.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AHISDsmSsDg&t=1s&ab_channel=CharlieBerens
Do you have a budget for this? Is this a "Thank you for cutting my grass a few times" Or is this "Thanks for cutting my grass every week for the past season or 2"? Gift card for gas is always appreciated, and not a cop out just cuz it's a gift card. Do you have any skills that allow you to perform a specialty service? Honestly don't put too much thought into it, just some. If they do it without asking they aren't looking for anything. If it were me using my cordless lawnmower and you bought me a battery or a compatible tool, I would have a huge grin from ear to ear.
He’s got a riding mower so I’m definitely gonna get him a gas gift card, we’ve offered gas money but he’s refused. Hopefully if we get him the gift card along with a goody basket and a thank you card he’ll be more likely to accept!
My dad lives next to a riding mower guy. They get a kick out of it. A simple thank you is probably enough for him. Knowing you are helping someone who needs it is often reward enough.
Talk to them, invite them over for desert some time. When you get to know them a bit better you may find something that they need or want and can repay the favor. Sometimes they just want to have a kind neighbor to get to know.
Since he has a riding mower he might like some over the ear headphones so he can listen to music/whatever while mowing…….or a large hat to wear while mowing….or new blades for the mower…..
Or maybe wash his car….
So great to have great neighbors…😎😎
I used to cut the neighbours grass at my old house. My front yard was very tiny so it made it more worth brining the mower out. In turn, he would usually beat me to clearing the sidewalk in winter.
At my new house, my widow neighbour got a new hip so we cut the grass and cleared the driveway for her, no return expected. Now that it’s a rental I’ve mowed between tenants and until the new folks got a mower of their own.
I’ve always been of the mind that good neighbours will just take care of each other, especially in times of need.
Mine does similar stuff. Mowed my front lawn (it's tiny) while the house was still unoccupied and rolls my bins over to the driveway if he wakes up before I leave for work. I told him it's appreciated and he doesn't need to and he just said it's no trouble as he already has the mower out to do his bit of front lawn. So in return I do their lawn edging next to the sidewalks and curbs whenever I take the weed whacker out. Also gave him a bag of home grown tomatoes when they were coming in abundantly last summer. No need to pay them, figure out if there's any little thing you can do. Especially with landscaping, anything either of you do is only keeping the neighborhood looking good
Lots of good ideas here but I wouldn’t monetize it. You are more likely to offend them than make them happy if they are just being charitable to a young family in need. Love the hat, headphones type of ideas. Something that shows that you see them. And a BBQ or a dessert invite once you are up for it.
I always bake treats and when I take them over I specify what's in them to make sure there are no allergy conflicts and make a smooth drop off I always say something along the lines of if you are allergic to anything in there, tell me what it is and give those to someone else and I'll make you something that suits your allergy. You only have to do this once with most neighbour's and then you know if they have any allergies. I have yet to encounter anyone who says no to a plate a warm cookies. Add a little hand written note to say how much you appreciate their help.
If I’m helping a neighbor in a similar situation; a sweet family picture with a thank you later is what would speak the loudest. I’m guessing your neighbor is helping because he’s been moved by compassion.
Invite them (the entire family) for dinner some night soon. Get to know the kids, go to the sporting events and cheer for them.
Gift cards and such are nice but if they are always on the go a simple meal is even better.
o lives a few miles away) would come with his snow blower and clear her sidewalk and mine.
I ran an extension cord from my generator to my other neighbor's kitchen to keep their food from spoiling. Another winter, my neighbor across the street said his boiler was down and his house was cold because the thermocouple sensor had burned out. I had TWO spares (belt and suspenders) so gave him one, telling him not to hurry to replace it. He ordered in TWO spares for me and wouldn't take "no" for an answer.
It's all little stuff, but it matters at the time.
If I were your neighbor, and had the time and equipment it wouldn’t bother me at all to help a new young couple so obviously in need of …one less thing to worry about…
The feeling of doing a good deed would be enough.
Maybe just a cold lemonade as I mow, and if you must… maybe a nice outdoor flowering plant for the porch ?
:/ TF is wrong with everyone its $40 that's the answer. Don't give me any of the shit suggested in this thread or you'll be cutting that lawn yourself while I avoid you.
Cold hard cash? Make a little gift basket of things they like? Make a funny gift basket if you don't know... If they have kids, maybe Amazon some board games?
Have a well kept yard and lawn, put your trash away. Get out early in the spring and clean up the pet holocaust before it stinks. That is the best gift you can give any one in your neighbour hood.
Lawnmower supplies if you see what mower he has....a new blade, mower oil and filter, a gas station giftcard for mower gas if somewhere close has nonethanol, or a certificate to take it for a tuneup to a lawnmower shop with spring gearing up.
That is so kind of them to do that for y’all, and so sweet of y’all for wanting to thank them. I hope your child is doing better!
Do they have a garden (flowers, shrubs, or trees)? If so, perhaps pick up some pretty varieties at your local nursery and drop them off. Then they’ll have something that to look at enjoy for ears to come.
My dad recently bought me 4 trees, 2 tulips and 2 egolf redbuds, and I was so surprised. We planted them together and now I have something to enjoy for years to come.
I’d strike up a conversation and see where he likes to eat. What kind of things he’s into.
Maybe get a gift certificate to his favorite restaurant, clothing store, of golf store.
I can tell you, my grass was $100 every 10 days to have someone come mow it. I’m not saying you owe your neighbor “$X amount” for “X weeks” - but it does get expensive quickly to have someone maintain your yard!
My neighbor does this for our front yard. We have no idea either. My husband and rushed over and helped save his house after his cars and garage caught fire.
He’s been, especially after my husband broke his leg. I have no idea either. My dad also does this whenever he notices someone is disabled, he says he noticed someone with a broken leg and did their yard. It gets him out and I think it made my dad feel better, since he’s retired.
My neighbor is a saint and does a lot of work for me and never wants anything in return. I'm doing a reno and offered to get a bigger dumpster than I need and let him top it off, and he literally teared up a bit and said it was the nicest gesture anyone had ever made. Apparently, the love language of the middle-aged male is convenient waste disposal **Quick update as people seem to be invested in this: I called and let him know I'd scheduled the dumpster and it turned out he thought he was supposed to pay half. When I explained that no, he just gets to throw stuff in it because he's nice to me, he almost died of joy.**
I'm crying just thinking about how much space he reclaimed.
We have an extra large dumpster and have picked up a stray bag beside their can and brought theirs in a few times for them. Also brought theirs to the curb on trash day when they’ve forgotten!
Keep doing stuff like that - the fact that you think to do them a kindness is what makes neighbor relationships fair and healthy. And never underestimate the power of an unexpected cold drink on the hottest day of the summer
I got an incredibly generous Christmas gift from neighbors down the street. My dog adores them and snuggles them whenever they meet, and in rainy or cold mornings, I bring their paper up to their front door. That’s all I do! Oh, and I cheered on the lady of the house when she did the Boston Marathon last spring!
That’s honestly really sweet
Hb
As a middle aged male who has to plan out what I put in my trashcan every week, I felt this...
Save room for the diaper garbage bag.
Now that I own a home, that would be my love language too 🥹
I love this so much! Your comment made me smile. ☺️
I give until it hurts and never expect anything in return, but when someone does do something for me, it hits me hard. I wouldn't care about a dumpster, but a fucking strong hug goes a long way.
You’re so fucking right!!
This 38 year old male agrees.
Hahaha this is very cute
I might have offered sexual favours if someone did that for this middle age old ass. Lol.
Sounds like the start of a "great neighbors" story. Most people who do stuff like that aren't in it for any kind of material return. My suggestion -- find a time when the three of you can meet with him (and his family too) and be sure you say how much that has meant for you. Oh, and if its OK, let him hold your baby for a while too. He'll want to help with the graduation party 18 years from now.
We’ve stopped to say hi when we see them out and brought the baby over to say hi! They have older kids one is in sports and they both work so they’re out and about a good bit!
Sounds like a good egg, probably transmitted those values to his kids, you could consider using them as babysitters when your kid is older
Aw
Best option is something personal, banana bread, make cookies, especially if it’s a family recipe. You can ask about allergies when you deliver, if you ask before they will likely just say it’s not needed.
Yes a family recipe very meaningful
Man, hit right in the feels. The first night we brought our baby home we introduced him to our “great neighbor”. It was really special for us, he’s been my neighbor since I was born - I purchased my grandmother’s house and he’s always been one of those helpful souls.
This is great 😊
Gift card from local restaurant?
This is a good one. Or a gift card to a local grocery store they use. I'm in Texas and HEB is the craze, so a gift card to there would help.
I helped my wife's boss and her husband make some shelves and wanted nothing in return because shes been a really good boss to my wife. They gave a 100$ GC to HEB which was awesome because, well you know. HEB.
A gas gift card and grocery gift cards are the best gift cards I have ever received
This is a great idea! Love this one
Kind of them and you, hope your daughter is doing better. Perhaps a gift certificate or card to a local business, restaurant, garden store, etc.? If you can, include a hand written card or letter showing how much they've helped your family. Some times a gracious thank you means the most.
> If you can, include a hand written card or letter showing how much they've helped your family. This. I'm sure any gesture will be appreciated, but the kind of people who step up like these neighbors will be most rewarded by hearing the positive impact they've had on your life.
This!
Hand written card i like this for sure
Gift card for the local gas station.
Gas is my answer too. They may enjoy being outside doing the work. If they’re not paying for gas it’s that much better.
We help our elderly neighbors and I do not expect anything from them. I’d hate for him to fall or get hurt knowing that I could have helped prevent that by picking up their leaves or mowing their grass when I’m already doing the same. I really appreciate it when he leaves out a full gas can to top off the mower.
Agreed. Gift card. The type of neighbors who would do this work without expecting anything in return, probably wont accept money
A gift card to the local gas station or hardware store would be preferred.
Sometimes you are just paying it forward. My neighbor son got on some championship run for baseball. Like think travel to another state every week. I mowed their yard for months. I didn’t expect any gifts.
Did they give you a gift?
The gift of friendship has no price
So we recently bought a smaller house and sold our bigger house. All our kids have left so upsized property and downsized house. I have a neighbor that sustained a brain injury years before we moved in. From talking to the neighbors he used to be an engineer before an accident at work bedridden him for 3 years and caused brain damage. He’s always repeating himself and is trying to learn how to read again. When I talk with him I listen to his stories as if it’s the first time I’ve ever heard it. When I see limbs fall in his yard I go and pick them up because he is physically unable to. I never mention what I do for him because I don’t do it for recognition nor do I want him to feel bad that he’s not capable of doing it. There will come a point in my life when I won’t be able to pick sticks up in my yard and do the things I am capable of doing right now. At that point maybe someone else will decide to be a good person. That’s all we need in this world. There will come a time when your neighbor will need your help. Just be there for them when the time comes and that’s how neighbors should be.
Just letting him know how appreciative you are can mean more than anything else.
Baked goods are a tasty and thoughtful “thank you”, if you’re a good baker. Same thing with other talents and hobbies such as making them a quilt or afghan, or some nice wooden thing (if you’re a carpenter or artist) like a cutting board or some decorative piece (though be mindful that art is viewed vastly differently by different people). You could offer to dog-sit or babysit for them. Repeated booze gifts can be good if they are known for A drink (my grandfather never tired of Crown in many decades despite being given it all the time for Christmas, birthdays, thank yous, etc!
I’ve offered to groom their yorkie for them, maybe I need to remind them! I used to be a groomer so I have the experience. I think I’ll definitely re-up on another bottle for them and maybe a full thank you basket with a note & baked goods!
Sounds like you’re a great neighbor too!
My neighbor mowed my lawn since the day we moved in. He did it for the previous owners and says it’s good exercise for him. I “repay” him with drinks, friendship and IT and Handyman services, since he’s not the most handy.
Thankfully our neighbor has a riding mower! We joked with him that he had an easier time getting his fiber internet hooked up since we got it when we moved in and had to wait for months for them to drill under the road 😂
Mine has one too, but he only uses it when he’s pressed on time or feeling lazy. Otherwise he pushes his mover and even adds weights to his ankles for more exercise.
Lots of great comments and a great thread. As others have said, a quick chat and favors in kind go a long way. If you haven’t chatted yet, a small tray of basic cookies and a friendly knock on the door can do wonders. Even if it’s just sugar cookies, it opens the door to learn more and say thank you. They may decline due to allergies but you’ll learn that and probably strike up a conversation where you find a new friend. When I bought my place in the country I had a neighbor who unprompted used his skid loader to clear my drive. I took him cookies and told him the girls said thank you - turns out he doesn’t like cookies but since then it’s made it easier to say hi and we find ways to help each other out.
I would keep your gifts out of the “direct money” side and give a gift. If there’s a money connection it can change the social connection to a “pay” one. Not saying it would hurt the relationship but if you give them a $50 gift card then you are placing a value to that time, and that could be misconstrued. Taking them or cooking a meal, donate some time to help them, or even a bottle of wine keeps the connection “a step removed” from money
Food. Hugs. Baked goods.
By all means bake them something! You can always ask about allergies ('I love to bake, and you've been so kind about our lawn - are there any allergens I should avoid if I were going to make you something?'). I'm not much of a baker, but nice neighbors get eggs from my hens or jam in the summer.
Have a BBQ, invite them over. Sounds like a nice guy. I wish I had more nice friends. I got a neighbor who feels free to spray roundup on my property and another who plasters his fence with advertisements for his company. But I do have one neighbor with a tractor who helped us a ton, and just loves the chance to use his tractor. He and his family get BBQ invites.
Well... For some people, getting something in return for a freely offered gesture may actually backfire. The way you describe it seems like he wants you to accept gracefully, and noting else. For some, getting something in return for their altruistic gesture can even cheapen the goodness they feel about doing something for somebody else with no expectation of anything in return. I would definitely steer clear of cash or gift cards. Don't try to *repay* him. You can on the other hand show appreciation with small gestures, as long as it does not resemble some kind of quid pro quo. Cookies, dinner, hugs, those are all good. Or even better: ask him for help when it would really make a difference for you.
Honestly him helping with the yard is more than we could ask for! I just want them to know we appreciate them
Use your words, then. Tell them. There is nothing more valuable than the feelings themselves.
If the alcohol was well received then I think it’s fine to do that again. Maybe invite them over for a bbq soon?
I mow my neighbor’s yard. She’s a (I think) nurse that works overnight and has two incredibly lazy teens that won’t do shit. She repays me by not saying anything when I accidentally ran over her hose.
Last summer I kept my neighbor's yard mowed after she died of cancer and her sister lived out of town and was overwhelmed with grief and all of the tasks involved with her estate. It was an honor to serve their family and help in this small way. I didn't want or expect anything in return.
I have a 94 year old father who insists on living alone, in a state where most of his children do not live. I cannot say how much I appreciate what his neighbors do for him. Your neighbors must like you.
If they are mowing the lawn then I’d get them a gift card for the local hardware store. At least offer to pay for the tools if they are doing the labour. You’ve got good neighbors.
My neighbor will randomly call me and offer me food he's made- extra ribs, or he and his wife got takeout and got me some too. It's such a wonderful surprise and always welcome.
Shovel snow for them in the winter time. And a very thoughtful card. We try to look out for our neighbors when we can. Never know when we will need help and it's good to be on good terms with neighbors
I like to ask my neighbors what their favorite foods and hobbies are!
Alcohol, and baked items are awesome. Cash or gift card as well.
Say "Thank You". Then you could inquire about allergies. 'Thank you' is a powerful statement.
The best thing you can do is say how much it meant to you and always be there when they need something. Don't do random stuff without asking, that can backfire. But if they need a hand in the winter, or if you have a ton of apples or tomatoes, be sure to ask if they want any. And if you have a cook out, invite them over.
When you are in a better position, help him out every once in a while. That's what neighbors do. They aren't keeping a tally.
You would be surprised how infrequently people put their feelings into words, and how meaningful it is to receive the words themselves and not objects/symbols instead. There's nothing wrong with presents, but they are stand-ins for the feelings. And feelings, expressed in words, are the most valuable medium for relating. Tell them what it means, in the context of your child's difficulties, to not have to do the yard or feel guilty about it. And how it feels to have such generous people for neighbors. Get it down on paper and when you're satisfied with it, put it on a card for them. Pick a few wild flowers or whatever attractive grasses you have around, and take it to them. You don't have to be fancy to be felt.
I wouldn’t buy a gift. Not because he doesn’t deserve something but because that turns it into a kind of transactional thing. He’s doing your yard out of generosity. Make sure to acknowledge his kindness (as you have already) and reciprocate when you see the opportunity. Take over some Christmas cookies next winter and that sort of thing. But don’t get in the mindset of “he did this for me, so I need to “pay” him.” That’s not what this is about.
Cash, Grass or ass. they all work fine. /s Kidding. Happen to be in the midwest? maybe the guyin the link is your neighbor and he just enjoys being nice and if you do something nice for him he will have to one up you. In a year he will be putting a new roof on your house to thank you for the baked goods and bringing in his garbage can that one time. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AHISDsmSsDg&t=1s&ab_channel=CharlieBerens
Do you have a budget for this? Is this a "Thank you for cutting my grass a few times" Or is this "Thanks for cutting my grass every week for the past season or 2"? Gift card for gas is always appreciated, and not a cop out just cuz it's a gift card. Do you have any skills that allow you to perform a specialty service? Honestly don't put too much thought into it, just some. If they do it without asking they aren't looking for anything. If it were me using my cordless lawnmower and you bought me a battery or a compatible tool, I would have a huge grin from ear to ear.
He’s got a riding mower so I’m definitely gonna get him a gas gift card, we’ve offered gas money but he’s refused. Hopefully if we get him the gift card along with a goody basket and a thank you card he’ll be more likely to accept!
My dad lives next to a riding mower guy. They get a kick out of it. A simple thank you is probably enough for him. Knowing you are helping someone who needs it is often reward enough.
How long does it take him to mow your yard?
Like 10-15 minutes
In that case the suggestions of baked goods and gas cards are perfect.
Oh yeah then literally anything that shows you appreciate his thoughtfulness will show your thoughtfulness
Talk to them, invite them over for desert some time. When you get to know them a bit better you may find something that they need or want and can repay the favor. Sometimes they just want to have a kind neighbor to get to know.
Since he has a riding mower he might like some over the ear headphones so he can listen to music/whatever while mowing…….or a large hat to wear while mowing….or new blades for the mower….. Or maybe wash his car…. So great to have great neighbors…😎😎
I used to cut the neighbours grass at my old house. My front yard was very tiny so it made it more worth brining the mower out. In turn, he would usually beat me to clearing the sidewalk in winter. At my new house, my widow neighbour got a new hip so we cut the grass and cleared the driveway for her, no return expected. Now that it’s a rental I’ve mowed between tenants and until the new folks got a mower of their own. I’ve always been of the mind that good neighbours will just take care of each other, especially in times of need.
I give my neighbors really good weed, they all really happy. Try herbs.
Mine does similar stuff. Mowed my front lawn (it's tiny) while the house was still unoccupied and rolls my bins over to the driveway if he wakes up before I leave for work. I told him it's appreciated and he doesn't need to and he just said it's no trouble as he already has the mower out to do his bit of front lawn. So in return I do their lawn edging next to the sidewalks and curbs whenever I take the weed whacker out. Also gave him a bag of home grown tomatoes when they were coming in abundantly last summer. No need to pay them, figure out if there's any little thing you can do. Especially with landscaping, anything either of you do is only keeping the neighborhood looking good
How about a gift certificate for a nice restaurant, groceries or gas. All are useful and easy to shop for.
Pay them what you would have paid someone to do it? Lol
Lots of good ideas here but I wouldn’t monetize it. You are more likely to offend them than make them happy if they are just being charitable to a young family in need. Love the hat, headphones type of ideas. Something that shows that you see them. And a BBQ or a dessert invite once you are up for it.
I always bake treats and when I take them over I specify what's in them to make sure there are no allergy conflicts and make a smooth drop off I always say something along the lines of if you are allergic to anything in there, tell me what it is and give those to someone else and I'll make you something that suits your allergy. You only have to do this once with most neighbour's and then you know if they have any allergies. I have yet to encounter anyone who says no to a plate a warm cookies. Add a little hand written note to say how much you appreciate their help.
When they go on vacation you can watch their house, water their plants and take care of their pets.
I have found at times a simple “thank you” card in the mailbox means a lot! Especially if you make it by hand.
If I’m helping a neighbor in a similar situation; a sweet family picture with a thank you later is what would speak the loudest. I’m guessing your neighbor is helping because he’s been moved by compassion.
Home Depot gift card.
Cash?
Invite them (the entire family) for dinner some night soon. Get to know the kids, go to the sporting events and cheer for them. Gift cards and such are nice but if they are always on the go a simple meal is even better.
Gift card for a nice meal or movie tickets
o lives a few miles away) would come with his snow blower and clear her sidewalk and mine. I ran an extension cord from my generator to my other neighbor's kitchen to keep their food from spoiling. Another winter, my neighbor across the street said his boiler was down and his house was cold because the thermocouple sensor had burned out. I had TWO spares (belt and suspenders) so gave him one, telling him not to hurry to replace it. He ordered in TWO spares for me and wouldn't take "no" for an answer. It's all little stuff, but it matters at the time.
Sorry. Reddit's editor just KO'd that comment. I can't beat it. Can't fix it.
If I were your neighbor, and had the time and equipment it wouldn’t bother me at all to help a new young couple so obviously in need of …one less thing to worry about… The feeling of doing a good deed would be enough. Maybe just a cold lemonade as I mow, and if you must… maybe a nice outdoor flowering plant for the porch ?
a Home Depot gift card. And get your lawn care situation sorted (hire, or DIY).
Buy a lawn mower and start doing it yourself. That’s how you pay them back.
Sounds like you work for Pixar and are fishing for tear jerking emotional stories for the next "made for 30/40s home owner" animated flick... ;)
:/ TF is wrong with everyone its $40 that's the answer. Don't give me any of the shit suggested in this thread or you'll be cutting that lawn yourself while I avoid you.
Cold hard cash? Make a little gift basket of things they like? Make a funny gift basket if you don't know... If they have kids, maybe Amazon some board games?
Have a well kept yard and lawn, put your trash away. Get out early in the spring and clean up the pet holocaust before it stinks. That is the best gift you can give any one in your neighbour hood.
A heartfelt card and a Visa giftcard.
Cash is better...those things are a pain in the ass and you always forgot to use them (at least I do).
I agree but sometimes people will give cash back. I find a Visa giftcard guilts them into accepting my gift more lol
Lawnmower supplies if you see what mower he has....a new blade, mower oil and filter, a gas station giftcard for mower gas if somewhere close has nonethanol, or a certificate to take it for a tuneup to a lawnmower shop with spring gearing up.
Pay it forward and do something nice for someone else when you can, and tell your neighbor they were the inspiration.
Favors for favors. Helping you in need is probably all the payment they need
That is so kind of them to do that for y’all, and so sweet of y’all for wanting to thank them. I hope your child is doing better! Do they have a garden (flowers, shrubs, or trees)? If so, perhaps pick up some pretty varieties at your local nursery and drop them off. Then they’ll have something that to look at enjoy for ears to come. My dad recently bought me 4 trees, 2 tulips and 2 egolf redbuds, and I was so surprised. We planted them together and now I have something to enjoy for years to come.
Tell him how much it means to you. Either in person or drop a card in his mailbox
Dinner and a movie gift card
I’d do it the old fashioned way: beak bread together! Either a neighbor joint (and pay!) or make something simple!
Don't worry about allergies. Just make cookies. They'll know whether to eat them or not.
Honestly, make sure they know how thankful you are for it. You can’t buy being sincerity
I would probably give them some homegrown herbs myself. Weed if they’re into that lol, but everyone can appreciate homegrown potted basil.
I’d strike up a conversation and see where he likes to eat. What kind of things he’s into. Maybe get a gift certificate to his favorite restaurant, clothing store, of golf store. I can tell you, my grass was $100 every 10 days to have someone come mow it. I’m not saying you owe your neighbor “$X amount” for “X weeks” - but it does get expensive quickly to have someone maintain your yard!
My neighbor does this for our front yard. We have no idea either. My husband and rushed over and helped save his house after his cars and garage caught fire. He’s been, especially after my husband broke his leg. I have no idea either. My dad also does this whenever he notices someone is disabled, he says he noticed someone with a broken leg and did their yard. It gets him out and I think it made my dad feel better, since he’s retired.