last minute etiquette question!

[quantumleap]

(Nikki - go away and don't read this or you'll ruin the surprise!)

It's foster parents' appreciation week here this coming week, and our pastor is going to briefly mention this and the families at our church who are foster parents. We have a little goodie bag of yummy chocolates from the local chocolatier and thank you notes for each of them.

I'm totally panicking about what to write on the cards though! Help!
I know that for most of the foster parents in our church, they're parents first, and the foster part comes second. Some have been at it for almost 30 years, and it's just a part of their lives. I don't want to minimize what they do, but I also don't want them to be offended at the uncouthness of thanking them for looking after "the poor disadvanted children of our community". (I didn't write that, and don't think that, I just don't want it to come across that way!)

So, critiques?
I have: Thanks so much for all the time, energy and love you put into being (foster) parents. We want to recognize the great work you're doing.
bla, bla (signatures)

I want to recognize the sacrifice and hard work (cause there is that to it!), but also don't want to step on toes or offend. Help?

Thanks.

[Sierra]

What you wrote sounds fine to me. I have a framed quilt square that was given to me by the dcfs staff at a recognition dinner. All it says is "Foster Parents and Children: A Patchwork of Love." I felt warmly thanked just by receiving something, and the truth is I don't feel I need to be thanked. It was nice and not necessary, and most things they could have said I am sure would have been lovely.

[quantumleap]

The quilt square is an awesome idea! Too late for this year, but I will store that away for future reference.
The cards are written, and will hopefully be received with the knowledge that good intentions were behind it all. Maybe chocolate will make up for any small slights?
Thanks Sierra.