M is for Money

Mother’s day is coming up this Sunday and as every child knows, you must never forget to somehow acknowledge the day (or face mom’s wrath). Hopefully she hasn’t been watching too much TV, the airwaves are filled with ads suggesting that true love comes in the form of expensive jewelry and flowers. But, you don’t have to spend a lot of money to show mom that you care. In fact some of the most memorable Mother’s days come practically free. If you’re looking to make both mom and your wallet happy, here are a few ideas.

Something Handmade

Didn’t kindergarten teach you anything? Mom always loved those handmade cards you brought home from school because they came from the heart. Handmade items require more time than money and show that you care. Dads can help the kids assemble cards, create crafts, bake a treat or make a meal. You could assemble family photos into a memory book or use them to create a collage. Moms are suckers for the sentimental. Make her a recipe book with the family favorites carefully preserved, reach out to an earlier generation for ideas and special recipes. Whatever your talent, make something special for mom and she’ll have a memorable day.

Sunday Brunch at Home

Brunch is regarded as a special occasion meal, so why not treat mom on Mother’s day. But a nice Sunday brunch out is expensive. Never fear you can create your own at home for less - what are mom’s favorites? Most breakfast foods are easy for beginners, or you can pick up a readymade meal from the store. Another idea is to buy a selection of pastries, fresh fruit and juices. This continental breakfast is always classy or a bagel platter with a selection of toppings. There are many ways to assemble a tasty brunch that mom will remember.

An Outing

Why not get out of the house on Mother’s day. Go to the beach, the park or a local attraction. Take a walk, a hike or go for a drive. Doing something special makes the day feel special, choose an activity or location that your mother enjoys. I’m planning to take mine to a local museum that she’s probably never heard of but that she should appreciate.

The Gift of Experience

Memories last longer than stuff, so give mom a family experience that she’ll cherish long after the flowers have wilted.

-Rent a beloved movie and get her movie favorites like popcorn and candy
-Head to a local garden, the one mom has always wanted to visit (but no one else did!)
-Look for a free concert or show, many places offer free or reduced admission for moms on Mother’s day
-Simply spend the day together, great for adult children who no longer live at home

A Day of Pampering

Most moms would enjoy a day of leisure above all else. Don’t let mom lift a finger all day, no cooking meals and no cleaning house. Help mom relax with a book and no distractions. You could plan a spa day with moms and daughters. Start with breakfast in bed to really rock mom’s world.

The point of Mother’s day is to make moms feel special. Often their love and sacrifice is taken for granted, so what is one day to show mom you care. With a little thought you can create a Mother’s day to remember that is both frugal and fun.


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