All that I am or ever hope to be, I owe to my mother. - Abraham Lincoln
I just love quotes. And this one up there is one of the best. Is there any more important job in the world than being a mom? It is one that begins when you have your child and never ends, no matter the age of your child. I will always be my mom's little girl (and apparently require reminding to bring a sweater when it's cold and to wear sunscreen when it's warm!) My mom is my closest friend and cheerleader and has been my entire life. I tell her everything everything EVERYTHING and we talk like, 9 times a day. I never went through a rebellious phase or a "I hate my parents phase". I am praying that my daughter and I will share this same kind of relationship. It's a blessing and one that I am so grateful to have. I am a person that treasures my family- I have a big extended family and truly, they are my world. I've kind of learned the hard way that it's all that really matters in this life- health and people you love and who love you. Its everything. Not the shoes or the clothes- but people. People that matter. There is no place I would rather be than with my family. And Mother's Day is no exception!
It's pretty easy to shop for my mom for Mothers Day because I basically just think about what I might like. I put together a couple of suggestions so that you can create a special day for your mama too. Here goes:
1. Pamper her: if your Mom had an hour to spare just for herself, what would she love to do? Take an exercise class, maybe have a facial or massage, grab a quiet moment to read? Whatever it is, try to make this happen. Maybe plan out a little excursion for her (bonus: maybe you can go too!) or get her a gift certificate. With my mom at least, she tends to just squirrel away those gift cards and never use them (me? Those puppies are put to use immediately!) I usually plan a day for my mom and just make her relax!
Christmas with my girl!
2. Buy her something splurgey that she might not buy for herself: My mom would never go out and spend $300 on an amazing Dyptique candle like this (do not pass judgment on those of us who do!) or buy fancy perfume or skin care. Mother's Day is a perfect time for you to buy that little something for your mom that she might not splurge on for herself. This would be a great time to get her started on that skincare routine (see my post about Arcona) or maybe a new color palette for spring or summer (like this or this). (Side note: My best friend and I do this for each other on holidays. We will pick out something that we would not otherwise splurge on-- like shampoo that costs $100 or whatever anti-aging product we are currently obsessing over-- and just buy it for each other. Genius! Try it! ) (side side note- These suggestions are meant to be a splurge. You need to be sure of the scent of candle she will love or what Bond fragrance she prefers before you drop major cashola on it. A gift certificate or a trip with you to Nordies to choose one might be a fun little excursion too)
Addison's 5th birthday, February 2015- where does the time go?
3. Can you ever go wrong with a monogram, I ask you?: This is the perfect holiday to get mom that necklace (here) or bag (here) or maybe cashmere robe (here) or whatever other initial bearing gift your mom will love! Even cute stationary is a great idea (like here). I always get her something personalized if I can.
My greatest achievement by far.
4. A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words
I think a beautiful framed picture of you and your mom together makes a lovely gift. Especially since who even prints pictures anymore? No one. Save mama the effort and take the opportunity to have another picture of you in her house!
My beautiful mama--the greatest mother and grandmother EVER-- and Adds.
I have a habit of octopus- like squeezing the people I love! What's wrong with warm hugs, right?
At the end of the day, if all you can manage is a heartfelt card or phone call-guess what? It will be enough. It will be perfect in fact. Take it from this mom right here- anything you do is amazing in the eyes of your mother. Hope your day with your mama and /or your own child is just wonderful! Xo Michelle
Four generations of strong, smart, loving women. I am truly blessed to have my mother and my grandmother as such big presences and support in my life. I love them hugely.