Ten Frugal Mother's Day Gift Ideas

'TIs the time of year when we show our love for the one who brought us life. But what to do when your empty wallet has grown cobwebs and you still want to show mom that you care? Look no further for the answers...here are ten frugal ideas that mom will love.

1. Write a letter. Everyone sends cards, but a letter will go far. Especially if it's thanking your mom for something she taught you, or what a great job she did raising you. Buy a dollar store frame for extra oomph.

2. Plant a flower. Buy a cheap terra cotta pot and decorate it with whatever you have on hand - paints, chalk - be creative. Then buy a pack of flower seeds, plant, and water. Mom will have a memory that will last far longer than cut flowers.

3. Say it with a mug! Again, get thee to the dollar store. Buy a coffee mug in a feminine color, then spend a few dollars and fill it with coffee, flavored teas, and hard candy. Perfect for a break for that hardworking mom.

4. Draw a picture. Mom's appreciate artwork from their kids - even if said kid is 25. Again, buy a dollar store frame for extra oomph.

5. Make a photo album. Buy an inexpensive photo album, and fill it with snapshots of you and your siblings from all different ages and stages. Write a nice note on a index card and slide it into the first sleeve. Be sure to date it.

6. Make her dinner. (Don't forget to do the dishes).

7. Burn her a CD. Find out a few of your mom's favorite songs, and burn a CD just for her. You could even put it in a jewel case with your own original artwork.

8. Make a basket. Pick out inexpensive soaps, lotions, and candles, and arrange them in a pretty pampering basket, just for mom. If there are still young children at home, offer to babysit so that she can have a few hours just to relax and pamper herself.

9. Clean the house. This needs no additional explanation.

10. Borrow the car. No, really. Then take it to the carwash, and wash and detail it. Finish up with some air freshener in a scent you know she likes.

And there you have it. Ten ways to pamper your mother for Mother's Day on the cheap, without looking like a cheapskate. Any of these gifts could also be expanded on, accompanied by a card, dinner, etc., but this provides an excellent start. Use your imagination, and create a memorable holiday for your mother - she deserves it!