Ellen PhillipsMother's Day is next Sunday. Folks lucky enough to still have their mom may decide this year to forego the more traditional gifts like flowers, candy or a nice restaurant meal. While these and even more expensive presents are certainly lovely, why not think of more personal gifts this year? For most mothers (and women, in general), homemade gifts or those goodies you've obviously put a lot of effort and thought into often mean more to the recipient. Here are some ideas.
* Whatever you purchase, even if just a gift card, take time to wrap it beautifully. Fancy paper, bags, tissue paper and ribbon make a gift look more lavish.
* Spend an out-of-the-ordinary day together. Take the whole family to a park or the lake or throw a surprise barbecue with your siblings or other relatives near and far.
* Go shopping for spring clothing with just the two of you. (Wouldn't you prefer she choose her own outfit rather than one you may have to return or, worse, one that just sits in her closet?)
* Does Mom enjoy chocolate? Whip up some homemade fudge or chocolate oatmeal cookies. Take time out of your busy life to personally bake treats rather than popping into a bakery or candy store and handing over some bills.
* Buy a pretty tray and prepare breakfast in bed for her. Set the tray with antique china or a special place setting and serve a delicious meal created around your mother's favorite breakfast or brunch delicacies.
* A homemade card, a poem or a heartfelt note is always a thoughtful and loving gift to be treasured. A pretty frame enclosing your words to be viewed each day makes it even more special.
* I like extending the celebration with "I Love You Because ..." snippets -- strips of paper on which you have written the reasons you care -- placed in a container for her to draw out once a day. (The last time I suggested this idea was for Valentine sweeties.)
* Make Mom Queen for the Day. From the beginning of her day until its conclusion, have her sit back and relax. Or ask her in advance to list her "I Want" list, and do your best to grant her every wish!
Contact Ellen Phillips at consumerwatch@timesfreepress.com.