I received several duplicate items from my registry, which I returned to purchase other items on my list.  As I am writing my thank you cards, do I thank guests for the item they sent me, or the item I ended up exchanging it for?—Emma, St. Cloud, MN

Never mention in a thank you note that you have returned or exchanged a gift.  In fact, if you can avoid it, make sure to never mention it at all.  In your note thank them for the thoughtfulness of their present, and use the item specifically in a sentence.  Example: “Thank you for the silver gravy boat.  I can’t wait to show it off at Thanksgiving this year!”