Celebrating Mother's Day with Your Birth Mother and Stepmother

Mother's Day is a wonderful excuse to spoil mom. But what if you have a special woman in your life who has been like a mother?

Mother's Day in blended families can sometimes be a bit awkward, but there are plenty of gift ideas that you can take advantage of to make sure that your birth mother and stepmother feel as though they are appreciated and pampered.

If you are planning on buying your mom something nice, such as a watch or new necklace, you may opt to get your stepmother a nice brooch or jewelry case. These gifts are still nice and quality, but don't outshine the present you'll be giving to your birth mother. If your stepmother has had more of an influence in your life, you may want to get her something that is a little more high-end, but for blended families that get along with one another, these types of gifts are usually acceptable.

You can also celebrate Mother's Day in blended families by making something for your step mom and sending it to her if you don't live in the same area. This is cost-effective, and putting your own personal touch on the gift shows that you care. If you live in the same area with your mother and step mom, you can arrange to take one 'mom' out to dinner or brunch, and prepare a meal for the other mom yourself. Depending on the relationship you have with your mother and step mom, these 'gifts' could go over really well--most women love to have something else cook for them! And , depending on your family's dynamic, you may want to have a big dinner for both 'moms', and present their gifts to them then.

Remember to keep your mom's and step mom's interest and hobbies in mind when you're selecting a gift as well. This will show your effort to make Mother's day special for both women, and if your mother and stepmother get along with one another, they may not mind engaging in one event together during the day (planning the whole day with both 'moms' in mind may not be a good idea; use your own discretion!). For instance, if your mother and stepmother both enjoy being pampered at the spa, you can purchase gift certificates for them both, or you can take your mom to the spa on Mother's Day, and give your stepmother the gift certificate as a gift.

Need a little more help when it comes to celebrating Mother's Day ? Check out sites like www.ivillage.com or www.thestepfamilylife.com for more great details, as well as year-round family tips for juggling time between a birth and step family.