Mother's Day; a special day to say thank you

A day set aside to honor mothers across the land. Since mothers were first given prestige for one day of being told how much everyone appreciates what they do the entire year long, it seems that once again stores and factories have taken over the gesture with penned in advance words and gifts all wrapped up in cellophane and plastic boxes.

While flowers will always be the first choice of many to show their feelings, this is the time for home made and hand made. Whether it is a collection of poems written by all the children, grandchildren, or nieces and nephews, it should be highlighted with pictures taken at special moments and adding a hand print is "just a nice touch."

Mothers come in all sizes and ages. Some are mothers of the first order and others are mothers by circumstance. Whomever you choose to honor on Mother's Day, make it a day of expression and gratefulness. A family may decide to get together and honor Mom at a special banquet complete with Rose Petal Rolls and Orange Blossom Pudding. Lobster Thermidor or seafood buffet casserole are other great choices, as Mom would appreciate being the recipient of a dish requiring some time and effort. Having to prepare literally hundreds of dishes a year can make a body appreciate delicious entrees without having lifted a finger in the preparation. The menu should highlight what the Mom of the Hour enjoys - seafood, salads, pastas, or an ethnic dish that her Mom taught her and she truly enjoys.

Picnics are other possibilities or even grills. The important note is that "families" come together and gifts are optional. If gifts are considered, then your inspiration, creativity, and novel ideas are all perfect choices. In fact, any gift should always include photographs, even on a key chain, a wallet or purse gift, and even a diary book. Expense is not going to show that you care more, but your taking the time and investing your own special touch is what makes Mother's Day the perfect day.

If you can't be with Mom then a phone call is the way to go. It would be your voice that would be remembered and homemade cards are next. Pressed flowers from a Spring garden, a video tape of all those who live states away, and even a tape of each child or grandchild wishing Mom or Grandma "Happy Mother's Day."

This is one day that should not be handed over to stores. It is not the measure of talent you may or may not have, it is the thought and it is "you" adding a bit of "you" into something made. A favorite restaurant is also an idea but choose one that Mom always thought about trying but never had the time or money to visit. If Mom is an arts and crafts person herself, then take her to her favorite "haunt" where fabric, ribbons, and ideas abound. She can pick and choose to her heart's content and "take pictures." Mom picking out just the right touch for a special floral arrangement or some glitter, scrap book embellishments that she has always wanted.

The choices are aplenty so there should be no lack of giving back a bit of time and self to a woman who doesn't even think about giving - it is just part and parcel of who she is and what she thinks is most important in life. It is taking a day to make sure that for one 24-hour period, Mom is front and center with no dishes to wash or rugs to vacuum.

If Mom is no longer with you, then don't forget a floral bouquet or even a pin-wheel decoration with each child's name on the wheel. A floral mat made of Spring flowers with ribbons naming each person who remembers and cherishes. If distance is a problem, then take a moment to toast a person who loved life enough to share it with a perfect little stranger. No matter your personal circumstances, the woman who was "mother" to you - well, it's her day so everyone raise a glass and say "thank you." Something to think about