Dear Annie: When is it too late to send out thank you cards, and do I explain the delay?

Dear Annie: My high school sweetheart and husband of 30-plus years passed away suddenly from COVID at the beginning of the pandemic. He was 57 years old, athletic and died within two weeks of testing positive. It was a huge shock to our three teenage/young adult children. Hundreds of friends and family attended his wake and funeral, and a memorial scholarship fund raised over $50,000.

I purchased personalized thank you cards but haven’t sent them out. His passing will be two years this spring. Is it too late to send out the cards? Should I write anything additional to explain the delay? — Still Heartbroken

Dear Still Heartbroken: I’m so sorry for your loss. Losing a partner is always difficult, but especially so suddenly and during the pandemic must have been even more devastating. It is beautiful to read just how many people and lives your husband touched — he was clearly a very special person.

In the wake of such a significant loss, it’s completely valid to feel overwhelmed, but it’s never too late to convey your appreciation and gratitude to your loved ones for their support. Perhaps include a small acknowledgement of the delay or a thank you for their patience in your note. I am sure they will be more than understanding about why it took so long.

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“How Can I Forgive My Cheating Partner?” is out now! Annie Lane’s second anthology — featuring favorite columns on marriage, infidelity, communication and reconciliation — is available as a paperback and e-book. Visit Creators Publishing for more information. Send your questions for Annie Lane to [email protected].