8 Ways to Say “I Love You, Mom!”

by Sharon Quercioli

Mothers are so special. They are caring, giving, kind, patient and loving. They are chauffeurs, cooks, tutors, seamstresses and nurses. They take care of us and make sure that we grow up healthy and happy. Moms have our best intentions in their hearts. How can we possibly show them how much we appreciate them? If you’re having trouble coming up with ideas, try these as a jumping off point.

Not Your Everyday Bouquet of Flowers

This is a common gift, but just because it is common doesn’t mean it won’t be appreciated. Some people really adore flowers! They are beautiful, smell lovely and can really brighten up a room. If you want to do something a little different (or if you want to put a spin on this traditional present), here are some unique ideas to try out:

• Instead of a bouquet of flowers, give her a potted plant. This will last much longer and be even more appreciated if she has a green thumb or enjoys gardening.

• How about some herbs or potted vegetables instead? If your mom loves to cook, this would be a great way to enhance her cooking experience.
  
• Wrap silk flowers or floral garland around a wicker basket. Then fill the basket with her favorite things: snacks, craft supplies, gardening tools, spa & skin care items, etc.
  
• Fruit baskets in the shape of bouquets are great alternatives for foodies.

Write Something for Her

Consider writing your mom a poem. Create a children’s book out of your favorite moments. Compile your favorite words of wisdom from your mom, and put them all in a book. Collect some of your mother’s favorite sayings, and put them in a book. Write a letter and tell her how much she means to you. Remind her how much you appreciate her and love her. We can never say that too much to those we love.

Extend a Helping Hand

There are many ways you can help your mother including being her chauffeur, running errands, helping her organize or clean something, or even surprising her with a clean house. Is there a task that your mother doesn’t enjoy? Maybe you can offer to do that task for her. Consider offering to take on that task with her. That could help the task get done faster and, let’s face it, it’s always more fun to do something with people you love.

Quality Time!

Think of something your mother has always wanted you and your family to do, or something she enjoys that she never gets to do. Now organize that event with her. Does she like going to the spa? Maybe you can have a family spa day.

Public Acknowledgements

Public acknowledgement might not be everyone’s cup of tea. Some mothers are shy and bashful. Keep your mom’s personality in mind if you are considering a public acknowledgement. If you’re mother isn’t super bashful, there are some great things you can do, including:

• Calling into her favorite radio station and asking them to play a song for her. Make sure to leave a personal message for her as well!
  
• Throwing a get-together for her. This might mean a Mother’s Day brunch or a night on the town. Maybe she would prefer an outdoor event at a favorite park. Is your mother outdoorsy? Would she prefer a Mother’s Day hike with friends? Does she like games, and would she like a game night with friends and family?

Take Her on a Trip

Some people prefer events and experiences over gifts. Creating memories is a special thing. So why not offer that for your mom? A lot of people are feeling the wanderlust after being stuck inside for so long.If you’re mom’s not one for being around people quite yet, there are some trips you can take, which don’t require a lot of public interaction. For example:

• Hiking a scenic trail

• Camping

• Visiting a national park

• Go on a bike ride

• Go on a daytrip or car-ride together

• Have a picnic at a park you have yet to visit

• Rent a boat and tour a lake or bay

Better yet, why not sign up for a class together! It is an experience without having to go far or block out a week for a trip.

Make Her Something

You’re never to old to make someone a present. There’s something special about a thoughtful gift. When someone has spent precious time making you something, it can make you feel so loved. If you’re having a hard time coming up with ideas, try some of these:

• Make a playlist of songs she enjoys

• Recreate your favorite childhood pictures and frame them alongside the new versions

• Utilize your skills with a favorite hobby to make her something. Maybe that means knitting, crochet, woodworking, baking, leatherworking, paper crafting, jewelry making, soapmaking, or even learning how to play her favorite song for her.

Buy Her a Gift

This might seem generic and too vague, so let’s narrow it down. When it comes to buying Mother’s Day gifts, remember that this gift should represent what she means to you. It should also be something that she isn’t able to get for herself—for one reason or another. Moms put their family’s needs before their own. This is one way you can show her that you appreciate her.

Lastly…

No matter how you show your appreciation for your mother on Mother’s Day, one thing is certain: as long as your feelings and intentions are genuine, your mom will be appreciative. Happy Heavenly Mother’s Day! You are missed every day of my life.