ger715, yes, agate is correct that you can go into your user CP (control panel) and select to receive email notifications for PMs etc, subscribe to threads/forums and a whole lot more
All the old options are still available, including the "Thanks" button, but I know some of the older theme/skins may not show it
I use the Tulip and the Spring themes as they are bright and cheerful

and the Thanks button shows on both of them