I would just keep it simple. I think a hand written note that is longer than a few sentences would be nice. Have her write what some of her favorite memories of the trip were.

I've often had a Cheryl's cookie tower sent as a thank you when we've been house guests or someone hosted my son at a golf event etc.

You could have your daughter send the letter, and send the Chery'l's cookies from your family. I like that you can order them off the internet!

Food is always a good gift-- but for something a little different, you could provide a package for a family game or movie night.

- A basket with a classic or newly released DVD along with popcorn and movie size candy boxes.
- A package with a favorite board game and healthy snacks.
- A gift certificate to a local theater.
- Outdoor or beach games - outdoor twister or bocce ball or volleyball set.

I would just keep the same tradition and make another book of the photos. However, at Kodak and Shutterfly, they have some really nice bound books you can make custom. They're very reasonably priced and look professional when done. For Christmas last year I made books for my sister of old pictures from when we were kids and they were a smash.

The old standby a fruit basket is always a good gift.

As long as you think they might enjoy it - I'd opt for the gift certificate to a local restaurant that's large enough to cover the cost of a meal for the 2 parents. And thank you notes from both you and your daughter. We've treated friends of our children in a similar fashion and I've always appreciated it when they write a personal note. Your friends probably have photos they've taken during the vacation. This would give them the chance for a night out together.

Is the beach house owned by your DD's friend's family? We have been hosted by friends several times at their beach homes. I have always given something for the beach house since they are owned by hosts. Usually a nice decorative item, one particular couple has a home with a fabulous gallery in the beach town. I've even replaced a worn set of dinnerware one year. My host (girlfriend) so appreciated that I found her beloved dinnerware for the beach house, and gave her service for 12. It is not inexpensive to keep a beach house, most times you entertain all summer and things get worn/broken.

If the home was a rental, I would give a generous GC for a nice dinner. A personal note written by your daughter (tho, I am not sure of your DD's age), a must! I know from experience that it is a big responsibility taking another's child on a beach vacation. You are obviously comfortable with this friend's family caring for your daughter at the beach (this being the second year), speaks volumes about your faith in the the family.

So nice that DD has such a great friend's family to include her on a great beach vacation.

Thanks for the ideas. The beach house is a rental. I need to talk to my DD (age 14) to see what she thinks!

Thank you all for the ideas. I had a cookie tower sent yesterday and my DD will be sending a separate thank you card.

beache