Mothers’ Day – a holiday made official thanks to President Wilson in 1914 – was initially created by Anna Jarvis as a way to honor one’s mother with a simple carnation, a note or a day off. Since its inception, Mothers’ Day has escalated into a full blown affair full of bouquets, elegant dinners and cards that play songs when you open them. There’s no denying the commercialization of the holiday – but that doesn’t make it any less meaningful or fun!

So – what can you do for (or with) your mother (or even grandmother, aunt, sister – whoever is a mom this year) this Mother’s Day?

• A spa day: These make great gifts because they’re so popular, it’s not hard to do a bit of shopping to find a great package deal (especially for Mothers’ Day).

• Day Trip: This can include anything like a tour of the city (even if you’ve lived in a place your whole life, there are places you may never have been before), or a horseback ride in the park, going museum hopping (many museums also have a pay what you can scale – which means more trips in one day) or even a day in the park. The list is pretty endless!

• Arts and Crafts: Do you know how to knit, sew or crochet? Perhaps sending over a new kindle cover you made will make her day, or a new dress for the coming summer months?

But what if you don’t live in the same town as your mom – how do you show your appreciation and love then?

• A card : particularly if it’s one you’ve made yourself. All the more personal.
• A letter sent a few days prior : it’s a great touch when compared to the ease of technology, and it’s just as thoughtful because it’s another thing you can personalize.
• A phone call : having a heart to heart can be a fulfilling experience as you tell your mom how much you love her, and is priceless.

The opportunities know no bounds because any time we take out to show our moms we love them is time well spent, and worthwhile in a million different ways. Even just saying, “I love and appreciate you Mom” can be worth more than a thousand carnations!