Last year, when Phase I of my treatment was complete, I sent my dentist, "Dr. Yes," and his staff a thank-you card: "Keep Calm and Carry On" with a personal note written inside. I also sent Dr. Yes's department chair (at the dental school where he is adjunct faculty) a commendation letter, and enclosed a copy of the letter with the card. I wasn't doing this for brownie points, as I am definitely NOT a brown-noser (if I were, I'd probably make more money!), or even "keep-me-even-though-I'm-a-difficult-patient" points. It just seemed like the right thing to do.
In 2013 I spent much less time in The Chair, but needed one major restoration late in the year, which is halfway complete. Knowing that Dr. Yes is something of a social-activist Christian (as I understand, he and his staff provide dental care to people living in a shelter for the homeless on a regular basis), in pre-Great Recession years I probably would have made a donation to their shelter work as a Christmas gift to his dental practice. Because I'm still paying off last year's dental work and just added another dental expense to my low-interest credit card, this isn't really an option unless I go into more debt or take money out of savings, which I admit would be unselfish, but not the best long-term ideas: I donate what I can afford, but can't really afford another donation this year.
I dislike poinsettias, but wouldn't mind sending a holly/ivy combination or small Christmas tree. However, live plants might pose an "infection control" risk in a dental office, especially if they're planted in soil, and I want the whole staff to enjoy my gift, not fight over who's going to take it home. This brings me to the dreaded baked-goods category, which is problematic.
Based on his website bio, Dr. Yes is fairly athletic, so sugar gluttony may not be high on his vice list. I know from talking to two of his employees that they, like me, have an interest in organic and health foods, and often shop at the food co-op. Of course there is the detrimental effect of sugar on dental enamel, so bringing a homemade cake or Christmas cookies seems hypocritical, not unlike giving a box of imported cigars to a pulmonologist! Nonetheless, I know several people on DFC have overcome the sugar taboo and brought desserts as gifts to their dental offices. . .
According to my husband and colleagues, I bake good cakes (including a butter-rum cake with butter/Bacardi frosting that's "adults only") and above-average cookies (including Christmas bonbon cookies, walnut with maple frosting and almond with chocolate/amaretto frosting). I know most people eat "bad" foods sometimes, especially during the holiday season, but considering that 2/3 of my dental office (and myself) are usually more interested in fresh produce than fast food, combined with the whole sugar/dental issue, what do you think?
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- is it this one:
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I've been unpacking me DR stuff and now making hubby lunch before he goes to work and have just received a delivery of topsoil and turf - I will respond - don't worry 
you all, I will not be getting the outfit - but it is a funny thought, and has again had me laughing out loud this morning 
