Apreciar y agradecer

Question

Apreciar is a false cognate of appreciate. Apreciar means to hold somebody or something in high esteem, think highly of or value somebody or something. To a much lesser degree does it mean to appreciate. Examples:

Aprecio a la familia Rodríguez. Son excelentes vecinos y amigos.

I think highly of the Rodriguez family. They are excellent neighbors and friends.

Aprecio la buena música, la literatura y un buen vino.

I value good music, literature and a good wine (appreciate could also be used here, but not with a sense of gratitude but taste).

Le tenemos mucho aprecio al párroco de nuestra iglesia. Es un hombre dedicado a Dios y a la humanidad.

We hold the pastor of our church in high esteem. He's a man dedicated to God and humanity.

Now for agradecer:

Agradezco toda la ayuda que me has prestado.

I appreciate all the help you have given me.

Juan y yo estamos sumamente agradecidos por todas las tarjetas de pésame que recibimos el mes pasado.

John and I are really appreciative for all the sympathy cards we received last month.