by Colleen Cook
Each May, many of us have the opportunity to tell our moms how much they mean to us. For one day, a (mostly) thankless job is recognized in a small way... so let's try this year to think a little creatively and make this a moment she'll remember on those hard days.
1. Gourmet Chocolate
Mother's Day is in that sweet spot (pun fully intended) between Easter and Halloween when all the chocolate in the house is MIA. I literally was emptying my pantry just last night searching for a morsel of dark chocolate and... nada. So, don't skimp - get the good stuff.
We recommend: Squirrel's Den Chocolatier
2. A Night Out
She's your cruise director, chauffeur, and project manager - maybe, for once, make the plans and let her just go along with it! Pick up gift certificates to the theatre, dinner, and drinks after the show and let her have a worry-free night off!
We recommend: Gift Certificates to City Grille, Phoenix, and The Renaissance
3. Spa Treatment
Mom always comes last (how many times has she eaten a cold dinner of her own making?), so treat her to some pampering and help those shoulders to relax a bit! At the very least, she'll be grateful for the hour or two of peace and quiet and the time to get her head centered.
We recommend: Studio 19 Salon & Spa
4. Jewelry
There's something particularly special about a beautiful piece of jewelry - it's a sparkling reminder of how loved you are, it's a marker for a particularly special moment, and it's an heirloom for generations to come testifying to the love someone had in their life.
We recommend: Miller's Diamond Jewelry
5. Photographs
As a mom, I've been personally responsible for coordinating family photographs every time we've had them and it's easily the most stressful day ever. Getting everyone polished, dressed, and smiling is seriously almost not worth it... until I see the glorious products a skilled photographer can turn out. Save mom the headache this year and give some awesome photos of her children without the stress.
We recommend: Tog Loft