Mother’s Day is this Sunday and in light of social distancing and not being able to travel, people are wondering about gift ideas and how to honor mom from afar. Unless you are living in the same house, making the day special may prove to be a slight challenge. If you are not able to sit at a table together for a meal or hang out in the living room or someone’s backyard, don’t worry. You still have plenty of options but might be running out of time if you don’t act fast. Here are a few of my Mother’s Day suggestions.
Love in a Strainer
I saw this idea on a website and found it super easy to duplicate. I pulled out my favorite orange colander, grabbed a succulent from one of my planters and created a gift from supplies I already own. The image featured in this article I made for myself and have enjoyed seeing it on my counter as I cook favorite meals for my family. This is an example of a simple gift that will brighten mom’s day when she looks at it and thinks of you. You can rifle through your cabinets to find a vintage or new container to use. Or, you can order a decorative colander online and have it shipped overnight. Some stores are opening up and you may find what you are looking for to create your own kitchen masterpiece.
Spa for One
A homemade lavender sugar scrub is a thoughtful gift that is easy to make. I happened to have a jar of lavender seeds in my cabinet that someone gave me as a gift. I never knew what to do with them until now. If you have fresh lavender, even better! I created a scrub by combining:
1 cup sugar
¼ cup coconut oil (I have also used sesame oil and olive oil)
Lavender essential oil – approximately 15 drops or to your preference
1 Tbs. Lavender seeds or fresh buds
Mix together and store in a decorative mason jar. Add a pretty spoon tied to the lid with a ribbon.
Perfect for dry hands or heels.
A Practical and Appreciated Effort
Mom might appreciate a surprise visit to the outside of her home to clean her gutters, wash her windows, mow her lawn (for a month!) or deep clean her garage at a social distance. Arriving with your own cleaning supplies and putting in some elbow grease is a true labor of love. Leave behind a fresh new bucket with supplies that won’t go to waste because everyone can use a replacement pack of sponges a few new cleaning products.
A Handwritten Recipe
Who wouldn’t love an engraved keepsake that has special meaning? Here is an idea by Zehr Design Co. to order now. It may not be in by Mother’s Day but include your personal recipe in Mom’s Mother’s Day card and a promise of something fun to follow. You can order an engraved tea towel, cutting board or personalized plate with a family recipe engraved on the surface. You even get free shipping on orders over $35.
A Custom Mixer
If mom is a baker, you can now customize a Kitchen Aid mixer by going to their website and having the appliance engraved with her name or an inspirational phrase. I have a Kitchen Aid mixer (in orange, of course) that I have routinely used and thoroughly enjoyed for years but would welcome a second one (hint, hint) with a customized message. I like things in pairs and many moms may agree. It all depends on who you are gifting. You know your mom better than anyone else and would tailor your gift accordingly.
A Handwritten Letter
I have a special box with letters I have collected throughout the years from my kids. It’s fun to look back and read each one of them, remembering little things that would have gotten lost in the day to day flurry without a gentle reminder. One of my favorite cards is from my oldest daughter, Dana, who took the time to write out a list of traditions we have shared throughout the years. It is always fun and heartwarming to read how she continues to enjoy our ceremonies. Now I watch her making her own traditions with her family. Writing something earnest to your mom will warm her heart and make a lasting impact.
You may also like 5 Things Kids Can Organize at Home. For more of Diane’s etiquette tips read her posts on Inc., subscribe to her articles on The Huffington Post, “like” The Protocol School of Texas on Facebook, and follow her on Pinterest, Instagram and Twitter.
Have you always dreamed of fine-tuning your personal skills or honing your professional skills? Now is our opportunity. I am offering virtual training where I will work with you in a private session. This is a limited time offer, click here for more details.