In my book, there are two sets of people that should be completely excused from sending thank you cards after they receive gifts.  The first set, is any woman that just gave birth or adopted a baby or child. I don't care if it's her 10th child, no woman who has a new child should have to write a formal thank card for a baby gift.  Ain't nobody got time for that.  The second set of people who shouldn't be expected to write thank you cards are the ones who have lost a loved one. No further explanation necessary.