CELEBRATING MOM

Bearers of life, wipers of noses, givers of unconditional love . . . mothers are the unsung heroes of everyday life. Although it is hoped that you recognize and celebrate your Mom on a regular basis, her special day-Mother’s Day-is soon approaching. Although the first official Mother’s Day took place on May 9, 1914, when then-president Woodrow Wilson declared the second Sunday in May “Mother’s Day”, cultures have been celebrating mothers throughout history. While you may not be planning to erect a statue as done by the ancient Greeks, this Mother’s Day you’ll want to ensure you have thought of a way to show her you care. Here are a few ideas:

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• Buy or make a card. With over 144 million commercial greeting cards given, Mother’s Day remains the third-largest cardsending holiday. While store-bought cards are nice, consider spending a little extra time and making your own. Include memories, reasons why your mom is special, or even an original poem. 
• Send an electronic card. There is a large assortment of online greetings you can personalize with your own special message—everything from animated cards to greetings from the cat. 
• Create a memory book. Fill it with special remembrances from you and your family. Dads can help younger family members write down memories and messages for mommy, or help select original artwork and drawings for inclusion. A homemade video or audio book can also capture the memories. 

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• Give her a day off. Taking over the laundry, dishes, cooking or other routine jobs she does is always appreciated. Give her that most elusive of items—free time! 
• Start a family ritual. Consider starting an annual event. Look to mom’s interests for inspiration. Picnic by the lake? A family show celebrating mom? Even moms and dads have moms. Consider taking the kids to visit your mom and having a special family tea party at her home or nursing home. 
• Give the gift of touch. Foot massages, back rubs, hugs and many kisses! 
• Make something. Consider framing foot and handprints of young children, making personalized coupon books or a special craft. One mom shares, “My son gave me a lovely pin he made. It looks like a wad of chewing gum with ‘jewels’ on it. But there are still times (years later) I wear it with pride!” 

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• Family Movies. Take family movies and have them transferred to digital files. 
• Spa treatments. Bubble bath, theatre tickets, a book by a favorite author, a special food, or dinner out. It’s not the size or expense, it’s the thought that makes it a gift from the heart. 

Your mom is an amazing person—cheerleader, doctor, counselor, protector and guide. Abraham Lincoln had the right idea when he said, “All that I am or hope to be I owe to my mother.” This year, try to put a new spin on your gift to Mom, making sure it reflects just how much you care.