Mother's Love
How can you really show mom how much you love, appreciate, and admire her this Mother's Day? It doesn't have to cost a lot, in fact, it doesn't have to cost anything. What's important is the outpouring of love and the — well-planned — thought behind it. Here are some idea starters to get you thinking about "what's on" for May 13, Mother's Day!

Give her the gift of:

1. Connection 
   
   Flowers, a phone call, or a special card. Let her know she's not alone — ever. Whether you're near or far, whether your relationship is distant or close: connect, and keep connecting. It means everything to her, and the dividends are more than worthwhile for you, too.
   
   
2. Relaxation 
   
   Pamper mom with a hot bath, scented soaps, beautiful candles, and a good book. Or schedule a "spa date" just for her! Get her a manicure, a pedicure, or a massage. Give her the precious gift of relaxation, and of privacy. This is an especially welcome gift choice for busy modern moms!
   
   
3. Time 
   
   There's probably nothing your mom treasures more than uninterrupted, quality time with one of her favorite people — you! So take measures to ensure the quality of the time you spend with mom this year. Don't book anything else but her this Mother's Day. If at all possible, turn off cell phones, pagers, and get rid of any and all distractions.
   
   
4. Memory 
   
   What gives mom greater satisfaction than sitting around with her treasured family talking about old times? Not much! Why not get together and go through old photo albums with mom and encourage her to tell you all the tales you're typically too busy to hear? Set a timer and take a family photo each Mother's Day or begin a memory journal. Fashion a personalized gift around the idea of memories and moms. Take her down memory lane; it's a true gift from the heart.
   
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5. You 
   
   Tell mom that you're hers for the day. Whatever she wants to do, whatever she wants you to do; wherever she wants to go, wherever she wants you to go — make it happen! Anything from doing a little spring cleaning, to taking in her dry cleaning, to escorting her to dinner and a show. From providing companionship on her favorite neighborhood stroll, to walking her dogs, to taking her to the art gallery, to picking up her weekly groceries. Let mom call the shots this Mother's Day.
   
   
6. Health 
   
   Mom spent so much time in her life putting you first. Now it's her turn to be priority one. And nothing's more important to her quality of life than her health. So ask mom if she's keeping an eye on herself these days. Is she getting regular check ups? Regular mammograms? Regular tests for "risk" areas in the family history? If she's not, help her out. Offer to drive her and/or accompany her to appointments. Offer to research areas of wellness she's interested in exploring. It's a crucial way to show her the depth of your love and support.
   
   
7. Pleasure 
   
   What is your mom's ultimate delight? Whether it's chocolate or roses or the best coffee from Italy! A first edition of her favorite novel, a hard-to-find jazz CD, breakfast in bed, or yoga lessons! If you can deliver it, do it. There's no time or money better spent than on the one who gave you life. And as the saying goes: there's no time like the present.
   
   
8. Good News 
   
   Have you received some good news lately? Did you get that new job? A promotion? Are you getting engaged? Married? Are you ready to buy a house? Are you expecting? Hold off on sharing the good news until Mother's Day and make a real "occasion" of it. It's not that you want to steal mom's thunder on "her" day, just remember, she's your mom. Good news for you equals good news for her. It'll be a Mother's Day she won't soon forget!
   
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9. Generations 
   
   If you're one of the blessed people who has more than two generations of moms in your life, count yourself lucky! Set aside the whole day to spend with your mom — and her mom too! How often do you all get together? Make it count. Assign another day for the rest of the family to celebrate Mother's Day. Hey, it's a special day, mom can afford to selfish...just this once!
   
   
10. Carnations 
    
    The carnation has traditionally been associated with moms. In the Language of Flowers, carnations symbolize love and distinction. And the white carnation typifies the virtues of motherhood: its color stands for purity and faithfulness, its fragrance for love, and its wide field of growth for charity. Why not celebrate your "first love" with this classic bloom? A dozen white carnations presented in an exquisite vase, centerpiece, basket bouquet, or keepsake container make a lasting and beautiful gift this Mother's Day.
    
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