"M" is for Mother

Mother's Day is a very important and traditional holiday. Really. It is! Well I think it is because I just happen to be a mother. The good kind. I believe Mother's Day should be every day or at least once a week, but that's just me. At this point in my life my expectations for Mother's Day bliss are pretty minimal. My children are all grown and mostly out of the house with their own lives and busy schedules so I don't expect them to make a big deal out of it. A little deal would be nice.

What do you do for your mom on Mother's Day? Flowers? Candy? A card? Come on. You can do better than that! Nothing says "I love you" more than a unique, well thought out gift - money is not the object here. I remember when the kids were younger we spent the day in the yard making a garden. It was one of the best gifts I have ever received. If you're stumped for original ideas, here are a few to help spark your creativity.

• Is your mother into arts and crafts? Find out what her current fave hobby is and make her a basket of supplies. For instance: a sewing fan would love to receive multiple colors of thread, cute buttons, gift cards to their favorite fabric store and perhaps a few sewing magazines that include projects, ideas and industry news. You could even pack these supplies and more into a sewing basket. They come in all shapes and sizes so you're sure to find one to suit Mom's fancy.
  
  
• Your mom is a budding chef? How about registering for a culinary class at your local Wholefoods Market (or similar establishment in your area) and go with her. She'll not only learn some new techniques, she will get to share her love for cooking with you.
  
  
• Get the gardening mom everything she needs for a kitchen herb garden. Herbs are super easy to grow and can be used in the kitchen and for all sorts of craft projects. She can grow them on her kitchen windowsill, the back porch or in a garden plot. Plants to start her out: parsley, rosemary, thyme, mint and dill. Need a little inspiration? Check out this herb guide for tips on herbs to grow, flavors and uses.

Each mother is unique and deserves something special to show her she is appreciated and loved. It really isn't about expensive or lavish gifts. Personally I prefer gifts from the heart that are thoughtful and meaningful. I bet your mom feels the same way.