Mother’s Day presents a unique challenge for myself and most moms:  honoring the mothers, mother-in-laws, or mother-like figures in our lives while enjoying the benefits of a special day of pampering and thoughtfulness for ourselves.  Here is a list of ways that will help you make the most of this coming Mother’s Day.

My Mom & I

• Call your Mom from your Bed – While luxuriating in possibly the only morning of the year when you can linger in bed (guilt-free), give your mom a call and tell her that you are thinking of her.
• Have a special “Day Out” with Mom – Although your husband and children might have made plans for some time together, carve out some time in the day celebrate with a Mom in your life.  Find a place nearby that serves tea, go shopping, get a manicure, or find some other girly way to celebrate.
• Help Out a Mom (and her family) – With recent devastations in Japan and in the southeast U.S., there are lots of Moms out there who are struggling to just feel normal.  You can celebrate Mother’s Day this year by finding ways to contribute to a Mom in need.  Mashable had a great article with some ways you can help tornado victims.
• Take A Trip Down Motherhood Lane – Spend some time today with your family and your photo albums.  Look back to when you first became a Mom and enjoy the journey you’ve made together.
• Create a Customized Mother’s Day Card or Gift – With just a little planning, you can create a beautiful gift that you or the Mom in your life is sure to cherish.  Shutterfly has a line of charming items that you can customize with photos and text.  Check out your Mother’s Day possibilities.
• Plant a Garden in Honor of Mom – Instead of buying flowers from a wholesaler, start a garden devoted to Mom’s favorites:  flowers, fruit, vegetables, herbs.  This project is a great way to spend quality time with Mom &/or to spoil Mom with homegrown lovelies!

What are your plans for enjoying Mother’s Day?  What ways are you planning to show a Mom in your life how much you love and appreciate her?