| How to Make Your Mom Feel Special on Mother's Day Posted: 10 May 2020 05:00 PM PDT A mother is a gift to cherish. Although the best way to honor your mom is to show her you love her every single day, Mother's Day is the one special day when you you can really let her know how much she's loved and appreciated. [Edit]Sharing Your Sentimental Side - Create a homemade letter or Mother's Day Card. This should be a genuine, heartfelt display of gratitude and appreciation. Think about why you love, respect, and appreciate your mother and what you hope she knows on this special day.[1]
- Be specific about actions for which you are thankful, such as her driving you to school daily or preparing your favorite dish every weekend.
- Brainstorm your favorite memories or qualities that you wish to pass along to your own kids.
- Make Mother's Day Coupons. Hand-craft a coupon book full of favors which your mom can cash in at any time. For instance, one coupon could offer to wash the dishes while another could be for a free car wash.[2]
- Include chores and actions that you are sure your mom will appreciate and that she will actually use. For example, don't include a coupon for taking the trash out if that is already your chore.
- Get creative as you craft your coupon book. Use different colored papers, markers, glitter, or other crafting materials that will demonstrate your effort.
- Gather photos as a gift. Both scrapbooks and collages are all about preserving memories by creating an organized layout of photos and other items with sentimental value.[3] The main difference between the two is that scrapbooks usually have lots of pages while a collage is one page or a poster-size cutout.
- Locate old pictures around the house. If all you have are digital copies, you can order prints online from places like Walgreens or Shutterfly. You can also create and ship digital collages online
- Find other items with sentimental value. For example, a ticket stub from your first concert together or a birthday card your mom gave to you when you were younger.
- Embellish your project by using patterned paper, stickers, ribbons, or other accessories to really make your creation sparkle.[4]
- If scrapbooks or collages seem too common, there are plenty of other DIY gifts that can incorporate personal photos: coasters, clocks, lamps, phone cases and many more.[5]
- Cook for her. Whether it's breakfast in bed or a family dinner, give mom a rest by cooking her favorite items. Take it a step further and clean the kitchen post-meal so mom has nothing else to do but relax.
- Get creative with your food choices. For example, instead of buying her a bouquet of flowers, why not make her one out of beautiful cupcakes?
- If your cooking skills aren't that great, try organizing a potluck where all of her loved ones volunteer to bring a dish.[6]
- Compliment her. Saying something nice seems like such a simple gesture, but it can really add happiness to your mother's day. Try compliments that are both original and heartfelt.
- Compliment her parenting. Talk about the lessons you've learned from her or how she has helped you grow as an individual.
- Compliment her taste. Does she have an eye for fashion? Is her food delicious? Whatever your mom does well, feel free to tell her so.
- Compliment her strength. Sometimes moms have the hardest job in the world. Show your appreciation for her ability to be a superwoman and tackle everything including motherhood.
- Spend quality time with her. Plan an entire day with her. Go shopping, watch a movie, or simply stay home and play some indoor games. What you do is not important; what's more important is reconnecting with your mom and spending quality time with her.[7]
- Try doing something you've never done before: create an ice cream bar, sign up for cooking classes, become a tourist in your own town, plan a picnic.[8] Your mom will truly think that it's the thought that counts.
[Edit]Spoiling Her with a Special Gift - Create a "favorite things" basket. Determine what your mom enjoys and create a themed basket based on her likes. This is much more personal than a pre-made gift basket or a gift card.[9] Personalize it even more by adding a framed photo and add some flowers for a lovelier appearance.
- If your mom needs to relax, create a "spa" basket that includes items likes soaps, lotions, perfumes, and other personal care items.
- If your mom has a sweet tooth, create a basket that has all of her favorite candies or snacks.
- The cost of the basket will depend on the items you include so go as big or as small as needed based on your budget.
- Throwing in something with sentimental value always adds a nice touch.
- Pamper her. Indulging your mom will make her feel good both inside and out.[10] Spa treatments such as manicures, pedicures, massages, or salon days are likely to bring a smile to your mom's face.
- Take her on a date. Treat your mom to a day or evening of new activities that are based on her likes. Scheduling a new and exciting adventure will show your mom that you care enough to plan an amazing experience.
- Try taking her to a new restaurant she's been wanting to try.
- Get dressed up and go to the ballet or opera.
- Try something neither of you have tried before. For example, instead of giving a bouquet of flowers, why not make one together?[11]
- Buy personalized jewelry. Instead of buying a plain, generic piece of jewelry, try having something custom made to suit your mom's personality and taste. You have to not only think about her jewelry preferences (bracelets, rings, gold, silver, etc.), but you also have to keep her interests in mind.
- For example, charm bracelets offer a lot of personalization because many jewelers have charms to represent everything including religion, sports, music, dance, and more.
- If you have siblings you can purchase a piece that includes the birthstones of all her children.
- Shop at smaller farmer's markets or online to find one-of-a-kind pieces; some can even be hand-pressed and personalized.
- Give her flowers. It may seem cliche but many women still enjoy receiving flowers as a sign of appreciation. The hardest part will be determining what type of blooms your mother would best enjoy.
- Visit a florist to determine the florist style, specialties, to ask questions, and to see the bouquets in person.
- No flowers really "clash" with each other so don't worry about choosing "ugly" flowers. Instead, choose blooms based on your mother's favorite colors or smells.[12]
- Bouquets normally only last 4-5 days so be prepared to put in a little work to make them last longer. Change the water daily, make sure the stems are cut at an angle, and add sugar or aspirin to the water to extend the life.[13]
[Edit]Planning a Party for Her - Choose a venue. There are plenty of options for where you choose to host your party: at home, at a restaurant, at a ballroom. Keep in mind both the guest count and budget when deciding where to host the event.
- House parties are more cozy and intimate, and definitely cost a lot less. You can try hosting a backyard brunch, or a formal dinner with a few of her closest family and friends.
- Many restaurants accept reservations for large parties, and some even have "party rooms" available to rent. Determine the headcount for the party and call your mom's favorite restaurant to ask about reservations and space available to accommodate your party.
- The price of ballroom rentals varies greatly based on location. For example, your local ballroom may be cheaper than a ballroom at a hotel. Also, some don't allow outside food or drinks so shop around to determine what fits your budget and your needs.
- Invite guests. Consider who your mom would enjoy sharing her special day with, and determine whether the party will be a surprise or not.
- You can invite guests in many ways including online (Evite), by printed paper invitations, or just through word of mouth.
- Remember to keep the number of guests appropriate to the size of the venue.
- Put together a menu. The food menu is not only determined by the time of day, but also by your mom's personal taste. Be sure to serve your mom's favorite dishes to show that you have put thought into the planning process.
- If you're unsure what your mom's favorite dishes are, ask others who are close to her or ask her months in advance. Search for recipes online if you're anxious about preparing a dish.
- Homemade isn't always better. Don't feel bad about purchasing pre-made food, especially if your mother enjoys it. You can always purchase from a grocery store or order take-out from her favorite restaurant.
- Catering is also an option. The cost of catering varies greatly depending on the type of food and the company. Most caterers charge by the person at either a fixed priced per dish, or tiered pricing (where the smaller the party the more the item costs). On top of this, caterers may also charge taxes and travel fees.
- Plan fun activities. Not only do Mother's Day games help you to entertain guests, but it also helps to build great memories for mom on her special day.
- Put on a play or skit for your mom. Have family members reenact memories that are special to your mom, or even tell her life's story. Not only is it fun and entertaining, but she'll be thrilled to have a play hosted in her honor.
- Play a version of "The Dating Game" where pairs of mothers and daughters (or sons) have to answer questions about each other, and determine which team can get the most answers correct.[14]
- Chose a theme and decorations. Does your mother prefer flowers and butterflies or football and motorcycles? Determine her interests in order to put together a party that reflects who she is, and what she enjoys. The theme will have an impact on everything from the decorations to the activities.
- For example, a tea party themed brunch might be appropriate to celebrate your mother. Decorate with centerpieces and flowers, and serve various teas and finger foods to keep mom and guests satisfied.[15]
- Try a garden inspired luncheon complete with flower centerpieces, fresh fruit, and mimosas.[16]
- Toast your mother to show her your appreciation. As the party gets underway, toast your mother to show her that this is her special day. Remind her why she deserves to be honored. Don't be cliche in reminding her of all of her wonderful attributes; instead, dig deep and think of all the wonderful things she has done for you.
- For example, think of all of the macaroni necklaces she had to wear over the years. Think of how many times she had to drag herself out of bed on a Saturday morning for ballet practice. Remind her that she is deserving of all the praise on this day.
- If you have a gift for words or music, sometimes writing a poem or song can help to better get across these sentiments.[17]
- Say "I love you." Very simple, but very effective.
- If you have any siblings, make sure that you do not pick fights with them. This will put stress on your mother. Instead, keep calm and include your siblings in the planning process.
- Remember things you did with her when you were younger and try to reenact it.
- Turn off your mobile phone so you can give your mom your undivided attention.
- Sometimes the little things can have the most impact. Demonstrate your love through small, genuine, gestures and she will appreciate it all the more.
- Every mother is different so try brainstorming your mom's interests or what she enjoys to help steer you in the right direction.
- Some mothers love a good surprise, so try to buy something different for Mother's Day.
- If your siblings cause stress for your mother, take some of the weight off her back! Take them outside and play or spend some time with them.
[Edit]References |
| How to Show Someone You Love Them Posted: 10 May 2020 09:00 AM PDT When you love someone, you want them to know it. But sometimes it's not that easy to say those three little words. Sometimes it's easier to show people how you feel. When you say, 'I love you', many people take it as a cliché, but if you really want to show that you'll sacrifice life and limb for them, read on! [Edit]Through Words - Send a letter. If you can't say the words out loud, try putting your feelings in a letter. Some people find that they can express themselves much better in writing than they can in person. Pour your heart into a letter, mail it and have them read it when you're not around.[1]
- Include details like why you were attracted to them in the first place, how you feel when you're around them, and how you envision your future together.
- An email would also work, but there's something old-fashioned and romantic about a letter.
- Thank them. Showing your loved one a little appreciation now and then can go a long way. A smile and a quick "thank you" will do for the little things, but every so often you should sit them down, look them in the eye and tell them "I really appreciate everything you do for me, it means a lot." Thanking your loved one will make them feel needed and appreciated, which is important for any relationship.[2]
- Tell them they're beautiful/handsome. Everyone likes to hear that the person they're with finds them attractive. Don't just assume they know how handsome or beautiful you think they are - tell them!
- Try an over-the-top compliment like "You're the most gorgeous man on the planet." It will make them feel special and let them know that you only have eyes for them.
- Or tell them something simple and sincere like "I can spot your smile from across the room" or "your eyes are the most beautiful shade of blue, I could stare at them all day."
- Ask them how they are - and listen to the answer. This sounds simple, but its importance cannot be understated. In order to feel loved, a person needs to feel listened to and understood. It's easy to ask a person how they are out of habit, and not really listen to the answer. You should make a point of sitting down with your loved one and asking them to tell you how they're doing - honestly and sincerely. If they're perfectly happy - great, let them know that you are too. If they're not doing so well, ask what you can do to help or just lend them a sympathetic ear.[3]
- Ask for their advice. Asking your loved one for advice shows that you care about and respect their opinion. It shows that you value their input and that you understand the importance of making decisions together, especially if a decision affects the two of you.
- If they have more knowledge on a certain topic, asking for their advice will flatter their ego, while also being beneficial to you, for example, when buying a car or new laptop.
- Ask for their advice on something relatively unimportant like whether you should buy the new Playstation or Xbox. They may not care all that much, but they'll appreciate you asking.
- For more serious matters, such as medical procedures or living arrangements, asking for your partners input is definitely recommended. If you fail to let them in on big decisions such as these, they may feel left out or unappreciated.
- Say you're sorry. Know when you're wrong and admit it. Whether you broke their favorite mug or made an underhand comment during an argument, a genuine, unconditional apology can go a long way to resolving the situation and letting your partner know you care.[4]
- Refusing to say you're sorry will only cause tension and resentment. Even if you think you did nothing wrong, swallow your pride and say the words. Your relationship is worth it.
- Write a romantic song or poem. What could be more romantic than sharing your feelings through a song or poem? (Hint: nothing). Through the words of a song or poem you can express all the sweet sentiments and warm, fuzzy feelings that you can't say to their face. Send your song recording or poem anonymously by mail for added romance factor.
- If you're not so creative, find some romantic words written by someone else and send your loved ones those instead. Look for romantic poems or letters written by great writers, such as Shakespeare, Lord Byron or Emily Dickinson.
- Alternatively, try dedicating a song to them. Whether it's before you sing on karaoke night or calling a request in to their favorite radio station, a song dedication is always romantic.
- Tell them you love them. This might sound a little crazy, but you could just say it out loud, those three little words: "I love you." Say it at the movies, say it in bed, say it while you're dancing, say it over dinner, say it on the phone. It doesn't matter where or when, as long as you mean it.
[Edit]Through Your Behavior - Make small gestures. Sometimes love isn't about making grand statements or over-the-top gestures, it's about the little, everyday things that define a relationship. Try doing things like opening a door for your loved one, bringing them their morning cup of coffee in bed or sending a quick text to let them know you're thinking about them throughout the day.[5]
- Be affectionate. A soft kiss. A warm hug. Even a tender squeeze of the hand. These little displays of affection are the perfect way to communicate your love without saying a word.[6]
- Share with them. There's no room for selfishness when it comes to love. If you really care about someone, you'll share your thoughts, your blanket and even your last slice of pizza with them.[7]
- Trust them. You've heard it before, but there can be no love without trust. You need to trust your partner to make the right decisions, even when you're not around. It doesn't matter if it's trusting them when they say that nothing happened with their ex, or trusting them not to burn the dinner you left on the stove, you need to take them at their word.[8]
- Surprise them. No matter how much you love someone, relationships can become boring if you allow yourselves to fall into a routine. Rekindle the spark by doing something spontaneous. Surprise your loved one by sending them flowers, calling them unexpectedly or planning a romantic getaway for the two of you.[9]
- Cook for them. Whether it's a bang-up bacon and egg breakfast or a gourmet, ethnic-themed feast, show your love by feeding your special someone something delicious. The time and effort you put into it will be obvious to your loved one, while eating together will allow you to spend some quality time with each other. They say the way to a man's heart is through his stomach - but a tasty meal works equally well for either gender.[10]
- Be honest. As mentioned already, trust is the key to a healthy relationship, and there can be no trust without honesty. You should tell your partner the truth about everything - whether you ate the last cookie or left the front door unlocked.[11]
- There are, however, a number of notable exceptions to this rule. Providing answers to the questions "does this make me look fat?" and "what do you think of my parents?" being two such exceptions.
- Encourage them to pursue their dreams. If you truly love someone, you'll want them to be the best that they can be and to pursue their dreams no matter the consequences. Don't hold them back for your own selfish reasons - they'll only end up resenting you for it. If they want to learn the violin, put up with their ear-splitting practice sessions (or invest in a pair of earplugs.) If they want to study or work abroad, figure out a way to make the relationship work. They say love is about compromise, but nobody should have to sacrifice their dreams.[12]
- Be there for them. To really show someone you love them, be there for them through thick and thin. Share their joy and their pain. Celebrate with them when they get a promotion at work or help them through the death of a beloved family member. Being there for someone can be as simple as sharing a drink together at the end of the week, or as important as giving them a shoulder to cry on when they're feeling low.[13]
[Edit]Through Gifts - Send them flowers. It may seem cliché or overdone, but nothing says "I love you" like a beautiful bunch of flowers, especially if they're her (or his) favorite. Make sure they are presented nicely. Attach a romantic note or send them anonymously. Present them in person or have them delivered to your loved one's home or office building. Flowers are a classic romantic gift that will never go out of fashion.[14]
- Try to make sure that you send flowers that your partner likes. Sure, it's the thought that counts, but you'll get extra points for choosing the right flowers. If you don't know their favorite varieties and want to go for something classic instead, you really can't go wrong with red roses.
- Make them a mix CD. Make your loved one a mix CD of the songs that remind you of them or your relationship, or even songs you just think they would like. Maybe ask them innocently to find their taste. A mix CD is a great gift because it shows you put time and consideration into finding music they would like. If you get it right and they love the tracks, it shows that you listen to them and know them on an intimate level.[15]
- Give them something from nature. Pick somewhere in nature that's special to you - your childhood home or your favorite place to relax and think. Then collect a token from that place and give it to your loved one. Give them a seashell, a pretty rock, a bird feather or whatever small, cute thing you can find. Tell them that you saw it and instantly thought of them. Tell them that it's a piece of you that you would like them to have and keep safe. They will feel special and closer to you as a result.
- Buy or make coupons for romantic activities. Buy or make a coupon book that you can give to your loved one, with coupons they can cash in for romantic activities at any time. These are available to buy online or in certain gift stores, but it's better if you make your own. That way you can personalize it and get more creative with your couponing. Wink, wink.
- Think of things like a coupon for a romantic dinner, a coupon for one hundred kisses, or a coupon for a sensual massage.
- Alternatively, they could be coupons for everyday activities such as a passes on doing the dishes or walking the dog, even if it's their turn. This isn't as romantic, but your partner will surely appreciate them nonetheless.
- Frame a picture of the two of you. Frame a picture of you and your loved one together.[16] Pick a photograph where the two of you look happy and and are clearly enjoying each other's company. Give it to your loved one and tell them why you chose that particular picture and what memories it brings back. Their heart might just melt a little.
- Before framing, date the picture and perhaps write a little note on the back. Then choose a pretty frame, and wrap it in a box or just tie a ribbon around it.
- Make sure it's a photo of themselves that they like. They won't want to display it if they have something in their teeth or their eyes are half closed. Present it in a pretty frame.
- Bring them balloons. If you're looking for something cute and fun to give your loved one, consider a bunch of balloons. Balloons are over-the-top and attention grabbing, so if you're looking to make a big statement, this is it. Just watch their face when they see you coming, it'll be priceless.
- Choose a bunch with your partner's favorite colors and tie with vivid ribbons. The louder the better.
- Make sure to get helium balloons, they look happier than the non-floating type.
- Get them tickets to something they like. Surprise your loved one by getting them tickets to see something they like, whether it's tickets to see their favorite band or tickets to a movie they've been wanting to see, or tickets to a sports event. This gift shows that you listen to your partner, that you support their interests and that you would do anything to make them happy.
- You'll need to be selfless with this one - even if it's something that bores you to tears, like ballet or monster trucks. The point is that it's something they like.
- Make sure their schedule is free before you buy the tickets. Even if they appreciate the thought, it'll be disappointing if they're not able to make it.
- Don't ignore or neglect your loved one. They will think you don't care.
- Words aren't always enough. Do things like telling other people you love them, showing them to your friends and family, and making them feel included in your life. Make them feel like you are proud to have them and are not hiding them.
- Don't be too shy or afraid of rejection. Everyone loves to be loved.
[Edit]Warnings - If you work up the courage to say, "I love you", don't be too discouraged if the other person doesn't say it back yet. Expressing feelings of love can be scary, and they might just need more time.
[Edit]Related wikiHows [Edit]References
[Edit]Quick Summary |
| How to Celebrate Mother's Day Without a Mom Posted: 10 May 2020 01:00 AM PDT Mother's Day can be a tough holiday for anyone who has a complicated relationship with their mom, or whose mom has passed away. If Mother's Day feels painful or triggers difficult memories, it's important to remember that it's OK to feel that way. By paying attention to your needs, whether that's celebrating your mom or distracting yourself from the day, you can make it through Mother's Day feeling strong. [Edit]Accepting Your Feelings - Allow yourself to feel without judgment. No matter what complicated emotions you might be feeling—sadness, anger, loneliness—do your best to open yourself to them, even when it feels hard. Notice each emotion as it comes, feeling it physically in your body and giving yourself the time and permission to experience it.[1]
- This is primarily a form of self-kindness. Your feelings are valid and deserve to be listened to; it's OK to experience everything you're going through today.
- Numbing yourself to your emotions might feel like a way of protecting yourself, but it often leads to more hurt, frustration, and sadness in the long run.
- Vent your feelings in a healthy way. Don't be afraid to let yourself cry if you need to. Share your feelings with friends or family if you feel comfortable doing so, or try expressing your feelings in by writing or drawing.
- Letting your feelings out in whatever way feels right for you is often healthier than pretending you're fine. It's OK to feel the way you're feeling, and it's OK to express your complicated emotions.
- Talk with other people who can't or don't celebrate with their mothers. You might find solace in talking about your feelings with others who understand what they're going through. Seek out a friend or family member who's going through this day without their mom and ask if you can lean on them for support. You can even offer to do the same for them, if you feel comfortable.[2]
- You can also go online for a supportive community. Look for Facebook groups, forums, and websites made for people who don't have their mothers around and see what advice and comfort you can find.
- It's OK if you don't feel comfortable talking with a friend about this tough situation, or if they aren't ready to talk with you about it. Look for comfort from another source and remind them that you'll be there for them when they're ready.
[Edit]Feeling Close to Your Mother - Surround yourself with people you love, if it feels right. If you'd rather not pass the day alone, spend time with close friends or family members instead. Share favorite memories of your mom, or look through a photo album and tell the stories behind each picture.[3]
- Filling the room with memories of your mom can help you feel her love and spirit, even when she's not there.
- If you don't or didn't have a good relationship with your mom, spend time with the people who nurtured you, whether that's another family member or a good friend.
- Bake one of her favorite recipes. If your mom loved to cook, pull out one of her old recipes and cook up a sweet treat or an old favorite entree. The familiar tastes will bring back great memories and remind you of great times shared around the table.[4]
- Sharing the dish with friends and family can also remind you that there are many more great memories yet to be made around a recipe that your mom has passed on to you.
- Spend time in one of her favorite places. If your mom loved a certain city, an old building, or even a park or hiking trail, make a trip there. Take the time to admire a view she loved, or sit on her favorite bench.[5]
- If your mom took pictures there, try to recreate them to help you connect with her.
- Write down her unique sayings or your favorite memories of her. Think back on her favorite expressions, from the pearls of wisdom to the funny exclamations, and jot them down in a journal. Remembering and reading over her words can help comfort you, remind you of her voice, and even offer advice when you need it.[6]
- You can also jot down favorite memories you have with her to remind you of your great times together.
- Look back through pictures you have through her. Go through old photo albums and flag your favorite pictures of your mom. Pull out a few to make copies of, or frame them on an open spot on your wall to ensure that your mom always has a presence in your home.[7]
- Visit her grave site or mausoleum, if she has one. If it feels right, you could bring flowers or a wreath to her grave site or mausoleum. You may also want to talk to her during your visit. Do what feels right for you.
- Don't feel like you have to go to the cemetery, especially if you're feeling too sad about it.
[Edit]Making the Day Your Own - Stay in and relax. If you're not up to thinking about your mom or Mother's Day, make it into a day for yourself. Stay home and do whatever makes you feel relaxed and calm, whether that's watching movies, reading, or pampering yourself with an at-home spa day.
- If this is a hard day for you, make sure to show yourself a lot of love and care.
- Exercise to distract yourself and get out of the house. Try going for a long walk, a hike, or a run to take your mind off of the day. Getting outside can refresh you, and the endorphins can ease your pain and stress as well.
- Get away for the weekend if you have time to plan. If you have the funds to travel, book a flight or take a road trip out of town. Exploring a new area, even if it's not too far from your own town, is a way to get your mind off of the holiday and spend the time doing something you enjoy
- Mother's Day is celebrated on different days in other countries, so if you can afford it, spending the weekend abroad will ensure that you don't see Mother's Day advertisements or events.
- Avoid things that could remind you of your mom or the holiday. Some people who go through Mother's Day without a mom find it best to avoid typical Mother's Day activities, like brunch, or certain locations or activities that could trigger painful memories. You may be able to confront these things in time, but if it feels like too much for today, it's OK to work your day around them.
- Try to avoid social media for the day and for a few days afterwards if you don't want to see Mother's Day posts.
- There's no wrong or right way to feel about Mother's Day, no matter how much pressure you might feel to put on a happy, smiling face. Do whatever you have to do to get through the day.
- Be kind and compassionate to yourself, no matter what you're going through. Be patient with yourself and remember that that it takes time to heal from pain and sadness.
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