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May 14th is Mother's Day and when it comes to tried-and-true gifts that are guaranteed to make your mom smile from ear to ear and be filled with nostalgia and emotion, there are a wide range of options. When thinking of the perfect gift, keep in mind that the simplest presents are often the most appreciated, i.e., breakfast in bed, a pre-planned spa day, or, to be very honest, simply giving mom some time to herself. For anyone who still needs a little extra help to make mom's special day a full success, we put together a few thoughtful ideas:
1. SAY THANK YOU
Truth be told, there are not enough "Thank You's" you could possibly muster to fully encompass the gratitude that is needed for someone who gave birth to your very life. But you can offer a small token of your appreciation. The delightful little book thxthxthx offers adorable mini quips like "Dear Wine, you make my phone conversations with my mom longer and more open. So thank you for that". Each little hand-written note is always relatable and never taken for granted.
2. MAKE A PERSONAL PHOTO ALBUM - BUT NOT WHAT SHE WOULD TYPICALLY EXPECT
Seeing your mom laugh with delight from looking at old pictures is always a win. But organizing and compiling an album of images that are unexpected - let's say the biggest (most photogenic) blunders of your family adventures that didn't go quite as planned - adds a whole new element of hilarity. Theme the photo album accordingly and have it bound with intermingled empty pages so you can have family members scribble in their own anecdotes.
3. ACTUALLY WRITE HER A CARD
In the age of everything digital, the art of hand-writing something to encapsulate how you feel is still relevant. Plenty of people still pick up pens for relevant reasons, and this is definitely one of them. Head to your local beautiful card and paper shop, choose a nice card that reminds you of your momma and write down the first thoughts that come to mind when you think of what you love most about her. You just may be pleasantly surprised by how easily the words start to flow.
4. MOMMA KNOWS BEST, RIGHT? TELL HER WHY.
She may have unknowingly taught you to love that fungus known as mushrooms, how to perfect your most signature dance move or develop your quirky sense of style. Write down all of things you've learned from her and tell her how they've shaped your life. The more details the better. This is the ultimate tear-jerker.
5. JUST LISTEN TO HER
She's constantly asking you to DVR some show for her, download that soundtrack she heard somewhere, or upload the podcast her co-worker keeps on telling her about. This is your chance to actually do all these things for her and know you are getting her a gift that she actually wants.
6. BE TOURISTS TOGETHER IN YOUR OWN CITY
Since Mother's Day is all about her, take your mom to do something she has always talked about doing, but never actually got the chance to do. It could be something simple and even free like finally trekking up to the Hollywood sign and taking a selfie, visiting the creepy caverns of Alcatraz or heading to the museum for the latest art exhibit.
7. GET CULTURED - TOGETHER
Some of the most memorable presents are experiences - they are truly the gift that keeps on giving. So if you have some money to spend - here is where you should go all out. Think about what your mom really loves. If she's a foodie who lives for innovative cuisine, book a reservation at the most talked about new restaurant in your area. If she loves music, take her to an upcoming summer concert series. Unleash her inner artist with a sculpture, ceramics or drawing class. But whatever you decide, do it together. That is the essence of this gift.
8. BE THERE FOR SOMEONE ELSE
If you have someone in your life whose mother isn't with them anymore, reach out and offer even just a call to let them know you are thinking of them. While this day is a celebration of motherhood, it can also be an emotional reminder for those who no longer have their mothers in the picture. Reaching out makes a real difference and spending time together can create a new way of remembering and moving forward with positivity.
