It's all in the "but"

Have you ever heard the statement that when you tell someone you love them and appreciate them, praise them and build them up, then you put in the small word "but", everything you said before that word is a lie.
Think about it. Here are some examples of what I mean.
"I love you honey, but, I wish you would put the toilet seat down."
"You did a great job weeding the garden, but, there is still some grass under the rose bushes."
"Dinner was great and the movie was wonderful, but, I have my sodoku to relax with before going to bed."

This same principal works when sharing appreciation to your clients. How often have you sent a postcard that says:
"Thank you for your business. We really appreciate working with you. We want to be your complete source for your "fill in the blank" so be sure to call us when you need more (fill in the blank)."
What you just said was,
"We love your business, but it wasn't enough. We need more of your money."
Sharing appreciation with your customers, clients, prospect, referral sources, etc., should always stop at the "but" pause.
Thank you for the referral. Avoid the temptation to ad, "We are always looking for more referrals.
It has been a pleasure to work with such a professional staff. Avoid the addendum "If there is anything else we can do to assist your business."
Leave the appreciation at the appreciation level. People will follow up on their own when you tell them you love them. You don't want that message lost behind the "butt"!