Flatter me, and I may not believe you.
Criticize me, and I may not like you.
Ignore me, and I may not forgive you.
Encourage me, and I will not forget you.
(William Arthur Ward)

1. Be personal-how would the person like to be celebrated and/or thanked?

2. Be specific-what are you celebrating/thanking them for?

3. Be sincere-why are you thanking them? Why has what they have done made a difference to you?

Don't let milestones and occasions go unmarked.  When someone reaches a milestone, celebrate! For example, in Toastmasters when someone completes 10 speeches, they get the Competent Toastmaster designation.  List some things to celebrate either at home or work:

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Don't try to copy someone else's style. Make up your own forms of recognition. Pay attention to what the other person might like to be recognized for.
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Resources
http://www.badgeaminit.com/brightideas.html
Make buttons and badges for your awards.

http://www.exploreallpossibilities.com/awards.html
The ETP (Explore the Possibilities) Award
Explore the possibilities organizational leadership web site, by Past Toastmasters International Director
Susan Niven, DTM

http://www.epraise.com
Has free recognition notes, thank yous, celebrations & holidays and reward coupons.

http://www.iparty.com
Nothing like a party store for inspiration

http://web.mit.edu/personnel/www/rewards/overview.html
MIT's Rewards and Recognition Program. Who could you nominate?

4/09/02
http://web.mit.edu/levitsky/www/celebrate.html
Toastmasters presentations