Make Mom Proud

She stayed by your side through chicken pox and teenage tantrums. Mothers deserve their holiday. But you don’t have to spend a lot; just invest some thoughtfulness.

Calendar Girl

For about $20, create a custom calendar with photos of the whole family. Imagine Mom’s surprise as she flips through each month to find funny and sweet remembrances.

Chef for a Day

OK. You’re not Emeril Lagasse, but you can still kick this Mother’s Day up a notch by preparing a meal just for Mom. Plan a simple menu and prepare a few dishes the day before. Need recipe ideas? Try the quick and easy section on allrecipes.com.

Vid Kid

Secretly snag Mom’s collection of 8mm reels and VHS tapes—containing first steps, birthday parties, and other family events—and convert them into DVDs. Do it yourself or trust an expert.

All Grown Up

Send Mom a packet of flower seeds with a note that tells her to plant them and watch them grow, just as your love for her does daily.

Got other great ideas to add? We want to hear them. Leave us a comment below!