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Mother’s Day Gifts for the Foodie Mom

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Delicious Nibbles, Sips & More!

For the mom who savors every bite, these delicious and thoughtfully curated gifts will elevate her kitchen game and satisfy her cravings. Whether she’s indulging in artisanal treats, hosting a fabulous brunch, or just enjoying a well-deserved moment of flavor-filled relaxation, these picks are guaranteed to impress.

CHEVOO Mother’s Day Gift Box

Give Mom the ultimate cheese experience with CHEVOO’s signature marinated goat cheese. Each cube is infused with herbs and spices before being steeped in extra virgin olive oil, delivering an irresistibly creamy bite bursting with flavor. Whether spread over Effie’s Homemade Oatcake Biscuits (my favorite!) or incorporated into a gourmet recipe, this gift box is a true foodie’s dream.

Fresh Del Monte Pinkglow™ Pineapple

Pink, rare, and completely stunning— Fresh Del Monte Pinkglow™ Pineapple is the ultimate statement gift for the mom who loves a little luxury. Grown in the lush Costa Rican jungle, this uniquely hued fruit has been sixteen years in the making. Whether blended into a vibrant cocktail, sliced for a show-stopping charcuterie board, or enjoyed solo, this exclusive treat is bound to impress.

Chocolove Artisanal Truffles Gift Box

Nothing says “I love you” quite like chocolate, and Chocolove’s Artisanal Truffles Gift Box delivers pure indulgence in every bite. Crafted by Master Chocolatier Chef Patrick Peeters, these rich, melt-in-your-mouth truffles are perfect for a sweet escape. A must-have for moms who appreciate the finer things in life.

Libby Non-Alcoholic Wines

Let Mom unwind with the perfect glass—minus the sluggish morning aftermath. Crafted in Napa, Libby’s sparkling white and sparkling rosé offer all the sophistication of wine without the alcohol. Available nationwide at Sprouts and online, these bubbly beauties make for a refreshing, guilt-free toast.

True Story Foods Food Lover’s Charcuterie Bundle

For the mom who takes her charcuterie game seriously, this bundle from True Story Foods is a dream come true. Featuring award-winning Heritage Breed Prosciutto and Uncured Genoa Salame, plus a pig-shaped bamboo cutting board for a charming presentation, it’s the ultimate grazing board upgrade. And let’s be real—who doesn’t love bacon?

Pompeian Smooth Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Elevate Mom’s cooking with Pompeian’s silky-smooth EVOO, crafted by expert olive farmers. Perfect for sautéing, stir-frying, and drizzling over fresh ingredients, this first cold-pressed olive oil is an everyday essential with an artisanal touch.

BUZZBAR Alcohol-Infused Ice Cream & Sorbets

Ice cream just got an upgrade! BUZZBAR’s decadent dairy bars, dipped in velvety chocolate, and refreshing vegan sorbets deliver a sophisticated dessert experience. Infused with the perfect amount of spirits, they’re the ultimate way for Mom to savor a grown-up treat.

1924 Wines

For the mom who enjoys bold flavors, 1924 Wines delivers an unforgettable experience. From rich Cabernet Sauvignon to a deep and indulgent Double Black Red Blend, each bottle makes a statement. Whether she’s a casual sipper, enthusiastic home chef, or legendary hostess, there’s something in this lineup for her.

BellaMatcha Lavender Matcha Lemonade

A sip of serenity, BellaMatcha’s Lavender Matcha Lemonade is pure relaxation in a glass. Blending organic ceremonial-grade matcha, zesty lemon, and calming lavender, it’s a moment of clarity and balance. A refreshing, functional beverage made with clean ingredients—because Mom deserves nothing less.

Tenayo Mexican-Style Sauces

Spice up Mom’s kitchen routine with Tenayo’s bold, flavor-packed sauces! From smoky Poblano BBQ to tangy Spicy Al Pastor, these Mexican-inspired condiments transform mealtime into an experience. Whether she’s whipping up legendary tacos or grilling veggies, this gift is a surefire hit.

Harney & Sons Fine Teas | Mother’s Day Tea & Treats

For the mom who loves an afternoon tea moment, the elegant Mother’s Day Tea & Treats gift set from Harney & Sons Fine Teas is just the thing. Featuring Harney & Sons’ Blueberry Green and Mother’s Day teas, along with buttery Shortbread House of Edinburgh biscuits (so good!) and a decadent Strawberry Paris Tea Jam, it creates the perfect pause for her to sip, relax, and indulge.

About the Author

Ms. Johnson is a Mom of 4, a Seasoned Freelance Journalist, Publicist and Lifestyle Expert with a career spanning almost 20 years in the industry. She is passionate about fitness, health and wellness. She has written her own website, Tiny Green Mom, since 2010, which highlights parenting and all things ‘green,’ from tips on living a healthier lifestyle to the latest eco-friendly products for the entire family.

As a Freelance Journalist, Ms. Johnson has written for a multitude of publications, including Medium, SheKnows.com, Tiny Beans, and more! In addition, she can be found on TV stations across the country as a Lifestyle Expert, speaking about all of her favorite brands and companies. 

You can follow her on Instagram @TinyGreenMom.

*Companies generously gifted samples and images for this article. All thoughts expressed herein are my own.*

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Pamper Mom This Mother’s Day

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Beauty & Skincare Gifts Mom Will Love!

Mother’s Day is the perfect excuse to shower Mom with a little extra love—and what better way to do that than with beauty and skincare gifts that make her feel pampered, refreshed, and radiant?

I’ve curated a list of my favorite finds for gift-giving this Mother’s Day. What would you give (or try yourself!)?

FabFitFun Spring Advent Calendar

This Mother’s Day, FabFitFun has released a limited-edition, Spring Advent Calendar ($84.99 for members) perfectly giftable for mom, filled with full-size products from top brands like Voluspa, Augustinus Bader, Saturday Skin, Beekman 1802 and more! It’s designed to deliver a multi-day unboxing experience that pampers moms and mother figures long after the flowers fade… because Moms deserve more than just one day of pampering! My tween daughter and I had so much fun unboxing all of the items at once to see all of the goodies inside! We received the Kalahari Watermelon scented candle from Voluspa which smells heavenly. This is a one-time, limited-edition drop created exclusively for the season, perfectly timed for Mother’s Day. Annual memberships come with serious perks, including up to 70% off top-tier brands and a FREE $200 gift bundle with code GIFT200.

Sol de Janeiro Bum Bum Jet Set

Mom will adore a trio of best-loved Brazilian Bum Bum Cream essentials in travel-friendly minis! Perfect for luscious scent layering and Brazilian Beauty secrets on the go – Mom will love tucking the Sol de Janeiro Bum Bum Jet Set in her gym bag or in her carry-on for any family trips planned over the summer.

Clinique Moisture Surge Set

Three of the very best items in the Clinique line are included in the Moisture Surge Set on FragranceNet.com – ready for gifting! The All About Eyes Serum is a new personal favorite, as is the Moisture Surge Face Spray which smells divine! Complete the routine with the Moisture Surge face cream – a true dream team that any Mom will appreciate on Mother’s Day!

Firm Intentions Neck Cream

Gift Mom the new Firm Intentions Neck Cream from Eight Saints! Powered by protein peptides to boost elasticity, Vitamin B5 to nourish, and hyaluronic acid to deeply hydrate and smooth lines, this lightweight neck cream rejuvenates the delicate neck and décolleté. Fast-absorbing and chemical-free, it’s Mom’s ultimate ally in achieving radiant, confident skin.

The Unwind Brush

The Unwind Brush, created by hairstylist Amanda Ozard, is designed for damage-free, extension-friendly detangling. With long metal bristles and no ball tips to prevent snagging, this plastic-free brush gently moves with the scalp thanks to its flexible cushion pad with an airflow hole. Perfect for both natural hair and extensions, Mom will love this ultimate tool for smooth, healthy hair. Plus, Amanda has partnered with Switch to Zero to plant a tree for every brush sold.

evian® Facial Mist

Gift Mom the newest innovation from evian®! Formulated with evian® natural mineral water and beautifying natural extracts, this organic certified, hypoallergenic Facial Mist will leave Mom’s skin glowing and radiant. Available in Glow, Calm, or Protect for 24-hour skin hydration. Not only do they all smell amazing, but the mists can be applied over makeup to amplify Mom’s beauty routine! Also available on Amazon.com.

MOON Platinum Pro Glow Teeth Whitening Device

Give mom the ultimate cosmetic dentistry treatment from the comfort of her own home with the MOON Platinum Pro Glow Teeth Whitening Device! The simple to use 3-in-1 LED device brightens teeth up to 18 shades (blue light), supports gum health by reducing sensitivity (red light) and increases hydration to freshen breath (yellow light). With customizable targeted results, this beauty tool completes one full cycle in just 15 minutes. No mess, no rinsing and fuss. This is a must-have for the beauty and wellness obsessed mom!

grace & stella Weekend Reset Edit

Give Mom the gift of pampering, hydration and rejuvenation with the grace & stella Weekend Reset Edit. It includes pink and blue under eye masks that combat dark circles, face mud mask to detoxify skin, hyaluronic acid serum and rose water spray to keep skin soft and supple, plus the berry lip mask.  Vegan, Cruelty-Free and made with gentle yet powerful ingredients that work for all skin types.

Luseta Manuka Honey Serum

For long lasting hydration that Mom will love, the Luseta Manuka Honey Serum reduces frizz, and adds shine, leaving hair silky-soft and manageable.  The lightweight formula is infused with the nourishing power of Manuka Honey and Argan Oil plus and a light, honey-blossom fragrance derived from natural essential oils to deeply moisturize, tame frizz, reduce breakage, smooth flyaways, and enhances softness for silky, luminous hair without greasiness. Safe for color-treated and keratin-treated hair and all hair types. Free of parabens, sulfates, phthalates, formaldehyde, propylene glycol, gluten, vegan and cruelty free. Also available on Amazon.com.

TOCCA Garden Collection Crema Veloce Hand Cream Set

This adorable giftable trio of moisturizing hand creams comes in three of the most beloved TOCCA scents, Giulietta, Florence and Simone. The creams are enriched with natural extracts from coconut oil, shea butter and aloe and will leave skin feeling soft and beautifully fragrant. The Garden Collection Crema Veloce Hand Cream Set is free from Parabens, Phthalates, Sulfates, Gluten, Formaldehydes, Sulfates, Mineral Oils and Cruelty Free. Also available on Amazon.com.

Twinkled T Honey Oil

Twinkled T’s adorable Honey Oil is the ultimate game-changer for strong, healthy nails. This lightweight, non-greasy formula absorbs fast, nourishing cuticles and reducing brittleness and peeling—no more struggling with dry, fragile nails! I love that it was designed as a holistic, organic alternative to harsh chemical-laden solutions, promoting natural nail growth while keeping your hands looking effortlessly polished. Plus, it’s available in the most convenient formats: an on-the-go cuticle oil pen, a cute keychain, and a refillable bottle, which is perfect for busy women who want salon-worthy nails anywhere. Crafted by women, for women, and loved by thousands, this eco-conscious essential makes nail care simple, effective, and totally chic. It is also available on Amazon.

Exfoliating Body Wash Set from VOESH

Give Mom the gift of pure indulgence this Mother’s Day with VOESH’s Exfoliating Body Wash Set—a luxurious skincare experience designed for ultimate self-care. This set delivers a simple and effective approach to exfoliation! Housed in clean, recyclable packaging, every wash pampers the skin while being kind to the planet. With a variety of invigorating scents—from the warmth of Fig & Amber to the calming notes of Hinoki & Lavanda—this collection transforms any shower into a spa-like escape. As an added gift, it comes with a chic VOESH Vanity Bag.

Prive Blondie Routine

For the mom who deserves a little extra glow, the Blondie Routine from Prive will be her ultimate haircare indulgence this Mother’s Day! This essential set keeps blonde or silver locks vibrant, brass-free, and effortlessly chic. The Blonde Rush Shampoo works its magic to neutralize unwanted tones, while the nourishing Blonde Rush Conditioner locks in color with quinoa proteins. A quick mist of the Finishing Texture Spray gives Mom frizz-free, beachy waves that look like she just stepped off the shore, and the Prep & Protect spray ensures her strands stay safe from hot tools. Mom deserves the same care and protection she gives to everyone else.

Snowfox Skincare Cherry Blossom Spring Set

Give Mom the gift of radiant skin and nourished hair with the Cherry Blossom Spring Set from Snowfox Skincare. This beautifully curated collection blends the rejuvenating power of cherry blossoms and white tea with luxurious haircare essentials. The Japanese Cherry Blossom & White Tea Smoothing Mask pampers her skin, soothing redness and dryness while boosting hydration for a luminous glow. Paired with the Love Heart Wooden Brush and Hydrating Hair, Scalp & Body Bar—infused with Australian Native Botanicals to minimize breakage—this set is the perfect way to refresh and restore. A thoughtful, indulgent pick for Mother’s Day – you may even be tempted to purchase a set for yourself!

About the Author

Ms. Johnson is a Mom of 4, a Seasoned Freelance Journalist, Publicist and Lifestyle Expert with a career spanning almost 20 years in the industry. She is passionate about fitness, health and wellness. She has written her own website, Tiny Green Mom, since 2010, which highlights parenting and all things ‘green,’ from tips on living a healthier lifestyle to the latest eco-friendly products for the entire family.

As a Freelance Journalist, Ms. Johnson has written for a multitude of publications, including Medium, SheKnows.com, Tiny Beans, and more! In addition, she can be found on TV stations across the country as a Lifestyle Expert, speaking about all of her favorite brands and companies. 

You can follow her on Instagram @TinyGreenMom.

*Companies generously gifted samples and images for this article. All thoughts expressed herein are my own.*

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Tiny Green Mom’s Mother’s Day Gift Guide

Mother’s Day is almost upon us, and “Mom” at Tiny Green Mom has compiled her eco-friendly favorites to give to the expectant or new mother!

Chewbeads 1

Chewbeads Safe Teething Jewelry
www.chewbeads.com

Stylish and chic, Chewbeads were created especially for moms with teething, chewing, and tugging babies! Chewbeads are a necessity for every new mom, as each gorgeous necklace and bracelet is made of 100% silicone and is completely chemical-free, heat-resistant, and safe for babies. With a huge selection of brilliant colors and styles to choose from, Chewbeads make an excellent gift for the expectant or postpartum mom! “Mom” loves that Chewbeads are dishwasher-safe, as after a day of little mouths chewing on them, sanitizing your necklace or bracelet can be done easily! Plus, Chewbeads do not contain BPA, phthlates, lead, cadmium or metal. www.chewbeads.com

Milkmakers 1

Milkmakers Lactation Teas & Lactation Cookies
www.milkmakers.com

Breastfeeding moms will appreciate the new Milkmakers Lactation Tea as a gift this Mother’s Day! Available in two delicious flavors, Coconut and Original, Milkmakers Lactation Tea is made with a unique, all-natural tea blend that does not contain fenugreek, a common ingredient in other lactation teas that can produce an unpleasant taste and unwanted side effects. Also unlike other lactation teas that require as many as eight cups per day – with new Milkmakers Lactation Teas only one to two cups per day are needed to achieve results! The new Milkmakers Lactation Tea joins the line of Milkmakers Lactation Cookies, convenient, nutritious and delicious cookies made with oats, brewer’s yeast, and flax seed – traditional remedies used to support breastfeeding moms. “Mom” is a huge fan of the lactation cookies – both the cookies and the tea paired together make the ultimate Mother’s Day gift! www.milkmakers.com

Belly Armor

Belly Armor
www.bellyarmor.com

The expectant or postpartum mom will appreciate a gift from Belly Armor, which offers apparel and accessories that shield everyday radiation with 99.9% effectiveness! “Mom” had the opportunity to try the Belly Blanket, which is the perfect choice for a mom who works from home on her laptop and uses her cell phone frequently! Soft, cozy and the ideal size, the Belly Blanket was made with the reliable protection of RadiaShield® Fabric. The Belly Blanket is a convenient and unobtrusive way to protect your child within against the risks of everyday radiation. Easily portable in your handbag, this maternity blanket is ideal for both the home and the office. It is available in three stylish color choices. https://www.bellyarmor.com/belly-blanket/

Simply Gum

Simply Gum
www.simplygum.com

Moms today are opting for more natural, organic choices in all aspects of their lives, and now gum can be a part of that choice! Simply Gum is a line of all-natural, biodegradable chewing gum! Not only do the all-natural ingredients make it better for Mom’s body than the average gum, but it is also better for the environment. Simply Gum is free from any artificial ingredients, including plastic, and with a variety of flavors such as mint, cinnamon (“Mom’s” favorite!), fennel licorice, maple, ginger, and coffee, you are sure to find one that will delight Mom’s tastebuds. www.simplygum.com.

Keep Calm and Color On Book

Keep Calm and Color On Adult Coloring Book
www.putmeinthestory.com

The expectant mom will love to color her stress away in this personalized coloring book where beautiful coloring pages are peppered with inspiring quotes to calm the mind and lift the spirits. A great personalized gift for Mother’s Day, each copy of Keep Calm and Color On is personalized with mom’s name on the front and back cover, a special dedication page, and a coloring page where mom’s name is a part of the illustration. www.putmeinthestory.com

Bravado dream-tank-lifestyle-1-cropped

Dream Nursing Tank from Bravado
www.bravadodesigns.com

Expectant and new moms will appreciate a comfortable tank that takes them through pregnancy into nursing their little one! Perfect for wearing at home or on-the-go, the new Dream Nursing Tank is the ultimate ‘nursing bra and tank in one,’ providing coverage and support. “Mom” has used nursing bras from Bravado Designs when breastfeeding all three of her children, and was eager to check out their newest offering! The Dream Nursing Tank is just that, a dream for all nursing mommas! Outfitted with every detail to help moms feel comfortable and stylish, the hip-length tank is made of double layer cotton and provides full support for the expectant and postpartum mom’s ever-changing breasts. It can be worn alone or layered underneath another top. The best part? The tank features full drop away bra cups that provide maximum skin-to-skin contact with your baby that is so important for bonding! #supportherdream www.bravadodesigns.com

Wally's Natural Organic Body Oil

Wally’s Natural Organic Body Oil
www.wallysnatural.com

The expectant or postpartum mom will love this luxurious organic body oil that keeps skin hydrated and naturally radiant! Made with Sesame Seed Oil and Essential Oils, the Organic Body Oil is “Mom’s” new favorite to apply after her little one was born! It is applied easily with a large roller ball so that it is mess-free! Wally’s Natural provides eco-friendly, high quality personal care products with a wholeheartedly green approach. The company honors nature through solar-powered facilities, green manufacturing, 100% recyclable packaging and sourcing that supports organic agriculture. The eco-friendly line also includes Ear Candles, Organic Ear Oil, and Organic Aromatherapy Blends. www.wallysnatural.com

*Companies generously provided samples and images for this piece. All opinions expressed are my own.*

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Mother’s Day Brunch Drink: Lemon Chia Fizz

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Lemon Chia FizzIt’s the perfect drink to serve at a brunch for your mother, with chia seeds as a garnish and bubbling with Blackberry Hibiscus Mamma Chia drink!

Lemon Chia Fizz

Ingredients

3 lemon wedges
3/4 ounces simple syrup
2 ounces Meyer Lemon Sake
Chambord
Louis Roederer Champagne
Mamma Chia, blackberry hibiscus flavor
Chia seeds for garnish
 
Preparation

Muddle three lemon wedges, add Lemon Sake, shake and strain into champagne glass.

Add Mamma Chia blackberry hibiscus, then top with champagne and splash of Chambord. Garnish with chia seeds and serve in a champagne glass.

Serves 1.

*Recipe and image courtesy of Mamma Chia.*

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Ten Thank-Yous Your Mother Should Hear

Mother & DaughterTen Thank-Yous Your Mother Should Hear

Nothing makes mothers happier than to know that they’ve raised fulfilled, healthy, successful, and self-aware kids. On Mother’s Day, let your mom know exactly what she did to turn you into the adult you are today and how her influence still shapes your life. Be specific!

From Todd Patkin, here are ten suggestions to get you started.
 
• First and foremost, thank you for always telling me how proud you were of me and pointing out all of the ways in which I was (and am!) special. Because of you, I know how important it is to love yourself.
 
• Thank you for insisting that I always be on time. I may have dragged my feet a lot as a kid, but now I know that punctuality shows respect for other people.
 
• Thank you for showing me how to conduct a civil disagreement with others. While I don’t enjoy confrontation, I am comfortable sharing and defending my views.
 
• Thank you for being a stickler about completing chores. I may never love to vacuum and do laundry, but I know how to keep myself and my house clean.
 
• Thank you for teaching me that people do judge a book by its cover. I may not always be a walking fashion plate, but I do take pride in my appearance. And I know to iron my shirt and pants before important occasions!
 
• Thank you for forcing me to eat asparagus and Brussels sprouts when all I wanted was chicken fingers and potato chips. Now I’m a healthy eater who loves the produce aisle!
 
• Thank you for encouraging me to keep trying and practicing after I was cut from the soccer team. You taught me how to be determined and resilient, and that persistence usually pays off. (I made the team the following year!)
 
• Thank you for teaching me how to be polite and courteous to everyone I meet. I have gotten to know so many interesting people because I simply smiled and said hello!
 
• Thank you for reading bedtime stories to me for years. You introduced me to so many new ideas, and you helped to make me a creative and imaginative person.
 
• Thank you for drilling me on my spelling words before my quiz each week. You taught me how valuable it is to put your best effort into whatever job you happen to be doing. You were right when you told me that careful preparation usually helps you to get results you can be proud of!
 
About the Author

Todd Patkin, author of Finding Happiness: One Man’s Quest to Beat Depression and Anxiety and—Finally—Let the Sunshine In, Twelve Weeks to Finding Happiness: Boot Camp for Building Happier People, and The Sunny Days Secret: A Guide for Finding Happiness (coming 2014), grew up in Needham, Massachusetts. After graduating from Tufts University, he joined the family business and spent the next eighteen years helping to grow it to new heights. After it was purchased by Advance Auto Parts in 2005, he was free to focus on his main passions: philanthropy and giving back to the community, spending time with family and friends, and helping more people learn how to be happy. Todd lives with his wonderful wife, Yadira, their amazing son, Josh, and two great dogs, Tucker and Hunter.
 
About the Books

Finding Happiness: One Man’s Quest to Beat Depression and Anxiety and—Finally—Let the Sunshine In (StepWise Press, 2011, ISBN: 978-0-9658261-9-8, $19.95) is available at bookstores nationwide, from major online booksellers, and at www.findinghappinessthebook.com.

*Image courtesy of FreeDigitalPhotos.*

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Memorable Mother’s Day Gift Ideas for Your One-of-a-Kind Mom

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Marvelous Mom

Memorable Mother’s Day Gift Ideas for Your One-of-a-Kind Mom

By Sherry Richert Belul

As children, many of us took the love and care we received for granted. It was just expected that our moms would feed us, protect us, do our laundry, and listen to our woes. We may not have thought twice about how many times mom put her own needs second so she could focus on her kids’ needs. We may even have felt disappointed or deprived in our childhoods. But as adults, we have an opportunity to appreciate our moms for everything they’ve been to us. We can step back and get it that our moms have poured so much of themselves into helping us develop into the people we are now.

One of the best ways to show your appreciation for everything your mom had done for you, is to give her gifts that are unique and personal. How about if this Mother’s Day you give back to your mom something she’s given freely to you for years and years — time, attention, and unconditional love!

1. Make a List

One of the best gifts you can give your mom is a list of reasons why you love her. It doesn’t cost a dime, but will be one of the most priceless gifts she’ll ever receive! All you need to do is set aside a half hour or an hour in a quiet place and think back on all the years you’ve had with her. Think about qualities that are unique to her, things she does for you, or special times you’ve shared together. Write ‘em all down as they pop you’re your mind. Your Love List can include big things and small things, funny things, and sweet things.

If you want some ideas on how to present your love list once you have it written, check out this free video. There’s also a free download of a ready-made Love List template — all you have to do is fill it in!

These lists are treasures for someone to hear. They are the best gift someone can receive. It is amazing to receive a gift that mirrors who you are. It is a gift to be seen. And unfortunately, people often don’t get to hear these kinds of things in their lifetime. For some reason in our culture, folks wait until funerals to express their love. Love Lists are a way to express your love and appreciation NOW!

2. Get Present

As we get older, material things become less important to us and old-fashioned quality time with people we loves becomes the real treasure. Everything is so fast-paced these days and we’re all always checking our smart phones or clicking away on the laptop. Why not give your mom a gift of your undivided attention? Make a handmade gift certificate for her that is good for an entire day together, just the two of you. Maybe you could plan an at-home spa day in which you give her a Mani Pedi and cook a healthy lunch? Does she have a favorite hobby that you can join in somehow? What if you went with her to her sewing class and then the two of you bought some fabric together and sat in the park to sew? Could you plan an afternoon picnic and you bring your camera so you can frame a favorite shot later? How about morning bird watching followed by a cup of tea at a local cafe?

Give Mom the gift of your time and attention by planning a very special adventure, designed with her in mind.

3. Straight from the Heart

Remember when you were in elementary school and at Mother’s Day you’d make your mom a photo paperweight or a vase of pretty paper flowers? Remember how your mom would always say, “This is my favorite gift!?” She meant it. Nothing tops a gift that someone specially makes with us in mind. You may think you’re too old to pull off a craft gift for mom, but think again. How about heading to one of those pottery-painting places where you can decorate a coffee mug? Create two of ‘em, one for each of you and then set up a time for a regular coffee klatch with mom by phone or in person. Or, use some of your talents as a photographer, painter, or photographer to create a one-of-a-kind artwork for mom. Sew her an apron with a personalized quote on it. Memorize a couple pieces of piano music and invite her to an at-home evening concert, followed by some wine and cheese. Don’t forget, you’ll always be your mom’s child. And there’s nothing moms like more than something created just for them by their kid!

Need a few more ideas? There are three more great ideas for you on the sample pages from the ebook, Present Perfect: 127 creative, one-of-a-kind, no-to-low cost, wow-em gifts they’ll never forget. Check out the samples and if you like what you see, you can download the book instantly for just $10.

About the Author

Sherry Richert Belul lives in San Francisco and is a mom to a fabulous 10-year-old boy. Sherry is the founder of Simply Celebrate, which is dedicated to helping people find more joy, color, connection, and spontaneity in life. Simply Celebrate offers practices and products to turn ordinary days into an extraordinary life! Sherry’s current focus is helping people foster deeper relationships through conscious and creative gift giving.

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Thoughtful Ways to Celebrate Mom

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Thoughtful Ways to Celebrate Mom

It might be tempting to buy flowers and candy for your mom this Mother’s Day, but that may not be what she really wants. Your special mom deserves careful consideration, and these three simple gifts will help you to make this Mother’s Day as unique as the mom in your life!

The Gift of Listening

Have you asked the mom in your life what she might like for Mother’s Day this year? The answer may surprise you.

Depending on the person, the special mother in your life might want to take a hike with the family or may want a couple of hours alone. Or, if she’s like me, your mom might want an unusual Mother’s Day gift, like a barbecue grill, or perhaps she won’t want you to spend a lot of money in order to cut down on potential financial stress.

The process of finding out what the mom in your life wants makes this gift special. The first part of the process is to ask seriously how she envisions that special day. The second essential step is to listen to the answer and act accordingly to make her vision for Mother’s Day a reality. The listening and follow-through on your part will provide a day to celebrate as unique as the mom in your life, and one she will remember for years to come.

The Gift of Surprise

What if your mom doesn’t really know what she wants on that special day? Don’t be discouraged – this is a wonderful opportunity to plan a surprise.

One of my favorite Mother’s Day gifts involved a surprise planned by my husband and children. On that Sunday afternoon, I was given our GPS programmed with a route that I was to follow, and at each stop I was greeted with a special treat – the first stop was a manicure, the second was coffee and a scone, and the third stop was at my favorite thrift store. This was a delightful way to spend the afternoon, and the surprise element only added to my excitement and joy.

The planned surprise doesn’t need to be elaborate or complicated, it just needs to cater to what’s special about your mom!

The Gift of Thoughtfulness

The crucial element to planning for Mother’s Day is to spend time thinking about what the mom in your life would really enjoy. Invest effort in thinking about her values and daily life, including how she spends her time and energy. Is she thrifty? Does she enjoy an occasional splurge and if so, what does she consider a “splurge?” Does she like to be active, or would she enjoy a relaxing massage? Could she benefit from some time alone with a gift card to shop without interruption? What is her favorite meal? Build your plans around your mom’s preferences and you’ll automatically be providing her with special treats.

These unique details are your keys to planning the best Mother’s Day celebration for the special mom in your life!

About the Author

Kelly Wilson is a busy mom and freelance writer who is looking forward to Mother’s Day. To find out more about the gift of teeth whitening for your special mom, check out Dr. Brett L. Johnson, DMD, a dentist in Oregon City, OR.

*Image provided by Organic Bouquet.*

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MY PARENTS WERE AWESOME: Before Fanny Packs & Minivans, They Were People Too

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Your parents’ lives revolved around you from Day One: from changing diapers through helping with homework, kissing boo-boos through dishing out dating advice, they’ve helped make you who you are today. But before fanny packs became their go-to accessory and minivans their car of choice, they were people, too!

In a digital age where we can retake digital photos until they’re “perfec,” the wildly popular website My Parents Were Awesome bucks the trend by appluading the everyday heroes – parents – with vintage photos. Launched in 2009 by writer, comedian and editor Eliot Glazer, the online collection of old photos of parents before parenthood proves that parents were once young, fun, and effortlessly cool. Yes – you know you want to check it out!

Now, Glazer combines the spontaneity and nostalgia of old photographs with stories by sons and daughters in a heartwarming collection of essays: MY PARENTS WERE AWESOME: Before Fanny Packs & Minivans, They Were People Too.

With intimate memories from Jamie Deen, Christian Lander, Laurie Notaro, and other acclaimed writers, comedians, musicians, and artists – MY PARENTS WERE AWESOME celebrates the hilarious stories of real parents: the mom and dad who traveled by VW bus to see Led Zeppelin for $1, the grandmother whose halter top and shorts belied her perfect demeanor, the father whose wanderlust passed down to his equally nomadic daughter.

A perfect gift for Mother’s Day, MY PARENTS WERE AWESOME includes a special section where you can personalize the book with your favorite image of your parents and write down your own cherished memories. With stories and photos that will warm your heart and make you laugh, the paperback edition of MY PARENTS WERE AWESOME reminds you to reflect, say thanks to Mom (and Dad) – and admit that, yes, your parents ARE awesome.

To learn more, or to order in time for Mother’s Day to let your mom know how amazingly awesome she is, visit myparentswereawesome.com.

*Company generously provided a copy of the book and cover image for this review.*

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Zulugrass™, the Must-Have Eco-Chic Accessory for Spring

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Elegance and whimsy grace every piece of wearable art in the Leakey Collection™! Zulugrass™ jewelry specifically offers the modern woman versatility in the gorgeous and bright strands of color that can be worn separately or together to compliment any look. Handmade by skilled Maasai artisans, each bracelet, necklace, or pair of earrings captures the spirit and essence of the Maasai, and feels as though you are wearing a part of history itself. Brilliantly colored beads made from readily available and sustainable grass are hand-dyed, and then strung together with hand-blown Czech glass beads, and the outcome is simply gorgeous! Not only are the pieces truly one-of-a-kind, but the women crafting these pieces are given a chance to provide for themselves and their children through their natural talent and abilities. To learn more about the story of the Maasai, click here.

The Zulugrass™ Collection is simply beautiful! You can create your own look by twisting various colored strand necklaces together, wearing a bracelet as an anklet, or adorning your wrists with a variety of bangles! The possibilities are endless for this eco-chic collection. Plus, with every purchase, you are supporting an amazing cause by helping the Maasai women empower themselves by providing an opportunity for them to care for their families with grace.

To learn more about the Leakey Collection™, to locate a retailer near you, or to order online, please visit www.leakeycollection.com. With Mother’s Day just around the corner, now is the perfect time to find a stunning, eco-fabulous gift for the special Mom in your life that also gives back!

*Company generously provided samples and images for this review.*

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Dancing With My Daughter

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In honor of mothers and daughters everywhere on Mother’s Day and the special bond that they share comes this beautiful poem by Jayne Jaudon Ferrer.

Portrait

From Dancing with My Daughter: Poems of Love, Wisdom, and Dreams by Jayne Jaudon Ferrer (Loyola Press)
Here we sit—two girls—
surrounded by all things pink.
I look at your fingers
so tiny!
kiss them,
caress them,
wonder
what all will fall
within their grasp.
Your eyes are wide
and merry,
as though you know
some delectable secret
and can’t wait until I
discover it, too.
But it is your skin
that captivates me.
So pure!
Fairly glistening
with unsullied newness of life.
My finger is a sponge
as I trace across your temple,
tickle across your tummy,
tease across your toes.
I soak up your
virgin essence
like a parched stem
sucking up summer rain.
Gorged on your glorious goodness,
drunk on your luminous glow,
I giggle,
you hiccup,
we bask
as here we sit—
two girls—
and the day
disappears.

To read more of Jayne Jaudon Ferrer’s poetry and to order her collection of books, visit her website.

*Company provided information, images and a sample for this post.*

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