DIY Mother's Day Gifts from the Heart

Mother's Day is approaching and it's the time of year to let your mother or another female figure in your life know how much she means to you. Consumerism sky rockets during this time and you can choose whether or not to be part of it. There is another way to give your mother the appreciation she deserves and that is to create your own gift. A glued macaroni project probably comes to mind, however these activities are a little more creative and enjoyable for your mom.

Manicure:

This Mother's Day, why not give your mom a manicure? I don't mean going out and paying for someone else to give her one, but you, yourself giving one. Start by soaking her hands in a warm bowl of water with lemon juice squeezed in to remove grime from the fingers and make the whites of the nail whiter. After 5-10 minutes of soaking, remove hands, dry off and work on the cuticles. You'll want to push back the cuticles then safely clip any hangnails with a cuticle trimmer. After this, place her hands in another lukewarm bowl of olive oil to strengthen nails and moisturize the cuticles.

After 3-5 minutes, remove hands from the oil and wipe off excess oil. Wash hands with a body scrub. After thoroughly dry, proceed to the nails. Trim the nails the same length. If you have a nail buffer, this is the perfect time to shine up those nails. Apply a clear coat, then a coat of her favorite shade. Your mom will have beautiful nails she can show off to everyone as her Mother's Day gift from you.

Fresh Flowers:

Chances are, if you are an eco-friendly mom, you are growing some beautiful flowers in your garden. Purchase a vase from a second hand store. At home, clip the flowers from your garden on the day you choose to give them to her. You can crush half an aspirin in the water to preserve some of the life of the flowers. Tie a ribbon around the vase and include a note of gratitude or a poem as well.

Tip: If your kids want to give grandma a similar gift, wildflowers from the field would also make a great bouquet.

Childhood Memories:

Think back to the times in your childhood where your mom was like superwoman to you. Maybe it was the time you broke your ankle playing hopscotch and your mother stood by your side the entire time at the hospital, holding your hand, telling you funny stories or remembering to pack your favorite book. Perhaps it was the time you just sat on the porch on a summer evening, watching the sunset go down while sipping lemonade. It can be any moment that involves her in it that makes you smile.

Chances are, hearing that these moments meant a lot to you will brighten her day. Write them down, preserve them. Give her a handwritten copy, perhaps in a journal, and be sure to make a copy for yourself. This simple act is a free gift but perhaps one of the most powerful and meaningful ones you can give her.