For Mother's Day: Nine Gifts She Needs

This Mother's Day may have more significance because of the current state of the economy. With the recent downturn, it has affected us all. We want to be smart with our hard earned dollars. Our Moms don't want us to "waste anything on silly gifts." But we want to show them that we care. For those out there who do not regularly send gifts for No Reason at All, as I do, you want to do something for her that she will really appreciate. Here are some ideas that may be helpful:

Pay a Bill. Does she have an old account that needs to be rid of? If it is a bit high, then it can be split among siblings. It may require "Mission Impossible" type coordination and quite a lot of trust, but it could be done. Even a small lingering medical bill paid off would be really appreciated.

Give her a free hair style for a few months. You can purchase a gift card for services at her salon. You know Mom has got to look good, even though she is trying to stretch her visits.

Give her a spa day If she has the whole salon thing under control and you want to give a little more, she will surely appreciate it. You can even combine this gift with number (six) for real impact.

Have her car detailed. Mom is a busy woman. She comes and goes, picking up and dropping off others, and does not always have time to look after her car. Make sure you leave a card in there, maybe even some car organizing accessories while you are at it. You want to do more than throw money at Mom. You should take the time you are waiting as it is being detailed, to help her stay organized.

Clean her house. Who wouldn't want free house keeping? Hire a trusted service, or do it yourself to save money. Make sure she will be away long enough to get the job done. Just stay away from straightening any area she is particular about. You don't want to overdo it. (For your own safety).

Buy her some good shoes. I don't know about you, but most women would love a pair of expensive and plush slippers. Most would love a pair of on-your-feet-all-day shoes as well. I suggest you shop at: Earth Shoes, Abbaddabbas, or The Walking Company.

Buy her dinner. No, not at a fancy restaurant. Give her a gift card to her regular take-out place. Put it in a card tucked inside a little gift bag. Inside the bag should be small treats only she likes. If you live far away and have to mail/order it, then carefully pick a gourmet, ethnic, whole foods store and choose some things sent to her. Again, it's her day, so make it unique to her. Add an item or two that she would be too frugal to buy. Examples are organic/expensive coffee, tea cookies made only in one remote village, or a jar of tomato sauce made with a certain wine, something very much "her".

Do some chores outside. She has a running list of things that need fixing. Fix the broken railing on the porch. She may have a box of solar walkway lights in the garage that need to be set up. Stop procrastinating and help her out.

Tell her how you feel. Gather the grandkids, spouse, siblings, for real creativity. Pass out the supplies so all can contribute. Use a regular binder with clear sleeves and your choice of paper to organize. Write stories, poems, and add original art. Assemble it and decorate the outside as a keepsake she will treasure forever. This is one gift she may need most of all.

When Mother's Day is over, and then soon after, Father's Day, remember to keep giving. There is more than one day a year to show your parents you care.