We all love our mothers (most of the time), but sometimes we forget to let them know how much we care. Showing appreciation is easy and can be affordable – after all, the most important thing is expressing to Mom how much she means to you.
Honoring the person who brought you into this world is the right thing to do. Luckily, Mother’s Day is devoted to making sure Mom feels loved.
Here are some ways to show Mom how much she means to you without breaking the bank.
- Call your mom. Let her know she is on your mind. Tell her, “I love you, mom.” It’s simple and effective, and she probably doesn’t hear it often enough.
- Say thanks. Write her a letter thanking her for her helpful advice. Moms give a lot of advice. Let her know what advice has helped you now and in the past. She’ll love hearing it.
- Write. Write her a list, a letter, a poem, a story or favorite quotes. Create a handmade card for Mom. Make it from the heart and it will be a gift she will cherish forever. If you have kiddos of your own, enlist them. Grandma’s heart will melt!
- Use your time. Spend your time on or with Mom. Take her to a place that is meaningful to her or the both of you. Plan a picnic, cook a special dinner, breakfast in bed, clean the house or give Mom quiet time. Giving your time is the most priceless gift and has immeasurable value.
- Make her a personalized gift. Create a scrapbook, framed photos, bath salts, or a coupon book that she can use in the future. Thoughtful and special. Likely more valuable than any store-bought ware.
- Give a simple gift. Chocolate, flowers, and cards are a simple way to say I love you on Mother’s Day (and year round). Little gestures go a long way with Mom.
- Listen. We all have busy lives. Take a little time and listen to your mother!
Spend a little time with her or give her the right words, a gift, or a favor to let her know just how well she did in raising a child who loves her. Appreciating Mom has nothing to do with money and is important whether you’re still young or grown with a family of your own.
Truth is, why reserve your love for Mom on just one day? Don’t save it for Mother’s Day. You can show your mom that you appreciate her any time of year!
Bio: Rachel Namoff is a managing Partner at Arapaho Asset Management and a leader in financial literacy. Rachel lives in Washington Park and enjoys longboarding in the summer and skiing in the winter with her two daughters.