Mother's Day

Shopping for Mom

The thought of shopping for Mother's Day gifts can strike fear in hearts of men, but it doesn't have to. Look to your childhood or your own children for inspiration- they know that when it comes to Mom, it really is the thought that counts. Read on to get a fresh take on some of the most popular Mother's Day gifts and the motivation behind them.

Let her know you listened.
How many times have you heard "did you hear me"? It's a mantra echoed by mom's throughout the ages. What better way to honor mom than to let her know that you really do pay attention to what she says.

When you are out shopping, PAY ATTENTION. See to what colors and styles she is drawn. Listen for catch phrases: I've always wanted one, that would make life so much easier, it's beautiful, or that would look so nice on my mantle. When she unwraps the package and opens the box to reveal the object within, she will be unable to suppress a smile and give you a big hug- she will be thinking "he really does listen to me".

Keep her in mind.
Flowers are one of the most popular gifts to give on Mothers Day. They can be dainty or bold, pastel or bright, lightly or heavily fragrance, but all are beautiful in their own individual ways- just like mom.

When it comes to flowers though, you either are or are not a "flower person". For the mom who loves flowers, consider the following ideas. Order flowers that match her personality and include the details of how they are like her on the card. Go to the florist and choose the flowers and vase yourself, and let mom know you selected them just for her. If mom is the type that hates to see the flowers wilt and die, buy a flowering plant or two for her- and plant them for her too. Create a memory that she can look back on with fondness.

Be considerate.
Chocolates and sweets, like flowers, are a popular gift for mothers. Giving a gift of sweets let's mom know that you think she is sweet.

Be considerate of her tastes even if it isn't something you like- just remember to say "no, thank you" when offered a sample. Do be mindful if mom is trying to loose a few pounds. You can still buy the chocolate, but select just a few "choice" pieces that she can have as a special treat. You may also consider buying a basket of her favorite fruits and placing them in a pretty basket. Mom will think of you as she tries each one.

Dazzle her.
Show mom that she sparkles with the gift of jewelry. It will let her know that she is as precious as the materials from which it was made, but (and I cannot stress this enough) do not be cheap.

The point here is to dazzle mom and cheap just isn't going to cut it- there is quality jewelry at every price point. Skip the keepsake jewelry that features her children's birthstones unless she really likes it. Instead, buy jewelry that features her favorite stone. Another idea is to give a chain and locket that features a favorite image of her children inside- she will wear it close to her heart. Even simple jewelry can be made special if you have a lovely sentiment engraved upon it. She will carry you with her whenever she wears it.

Make it home made.
Nothing touches mom like a gift that you crafted with your own hands. It is a sentimental gift- you took the time to make something just for her.

Now not to be a stick-in-the-mud, but unless you are a child there is no excuse for poor workmanship. If you are a gifted baker or cook, whip her up a fabulous cake or a four-course meal. Knit a beautiful throw for her bed or sofa. Create a scrapbook filled with photos of mom with her friends and family. Paint a masterpiece or present her with a piece of pottery if you are a skilled artist. Home made gifts have a special place with moms. She remembers the popsicle stick napkin holders, the tissue flowers, and the stack of handcrafted cards. So, hand made gifts are still a treasure to her.

If on the other hand you have children, help them take their home made gifts to the next level. Present mom with a painting, drawing, or card that has been professionally matted and framed- Mom can hang it right up and your child will feel so grown up. Turn the dining room into a cafe complete with menu that features all of mom's favorite brunch items. Have you children act as servers that will take her order and serve the meal (older children can help prepare the food too). The kids will have a terrific time pampering mom and it's a Mother's Day she won't forget. Coupon books are a sweet idea, but frankly we moms feel guilty cashing in. Have a pow wow and think of ONE thing that each family member can take on to lessen mom's work load for a week or two. Then, create a decree and present it to mom, for example: The _____ family has decreed that next week mom shall not do the laundry, vacuum, or clean up after dinner. She'll love the extra time you've given her.

Whatever the gift, the most important part of Mother's Day is to remind Mom that she is loved and appreciated- Happy Mother's Day.