PlanJam!From your screen to the scene

As we all know, moms come in all shapes and sizes, from those expecting their first baby to those who are the matriarchs of large, extended families. And as varied as their statuses and ages, so too goes their unique tastes and styles. With all that to consider, it's no wonder why gift shopping for Mother's Day can be so difficult! Sure, IOU's or coupons for taking on chores or home made cards consisting of macaroni and tissue paper are fine for small children to concoct, but us adults need to step it up a notch!

Here's some ideas that this mom would be thrilled to receive!

On The Cheap

Handle all of her chores for the day: One thing I've always insisted upon is that Mother's Day means it's my day off work! That means, all of the meals, the house keeping, the errands and everything else I normally do on a Sunday is handled by someone else. Since I used to wait tables back in the day, I personally abhor the notion of going out to eat at a restaurant. Why? Because everyone else came up with that idea, which means long waits for a table and even longer waits for service once we sit down. If you absolutely stink at cooking, order take-out or delivery from mom's favorite restaurant instead and go formal on the table setting.

Plan a picnic: Even where I'm from, the middle of May is generally pretty nice out, so laying out at the beach or on the grass is a pretty sweet idea, so as long as you abide by my Rule #1 above! Just be sure to stake your claim early at the park, since a lot of other people might be thinking of this as well. And please remember to bring things to eat with and on! Even if you're just grabbing a bucket from the Colonel, remember to check for plenty of napkins and sporks!

Looking To Splurge A Little

Buy her flowers: Even my tomboyish side loves a beautiful arrangement, and the cost of a bouquet can cost as little or as much as you want it to. If you're on the cheap and decide to grab some flowers from the guy at the off-ramp, do yourself a favor: jazz it up by stopping someplace and buying a vase for it. The flowers will die in a few days, sure, but she'll have a pretty vase to remember you by for many years to come.

Get her a gift certificate: If mom's of the girlie persuasion, a trip to the salon or even day spa might just do the trick! A manicure or pedicure can cost around $30 each, and a terrific hair style will run you $50.

Less expensive jewelry: A charm bracelet or one made of semiprecious stones in colors she loves are almost always adored. Classy, yet inexpensive earrings are a good choice too, but be sure you know if her ears are pierced and whether she likes studs or something that dangles a little. Younger moms would also appreciate that one piece of jewelry from their partners that is defined solely for women - anklets.

Going All Out

Considering the sparkly things: Sure, diamonds are a girl's best friend, but what cradles them is just as important when choosing the right gift. When she's not looking, open her jewelry box and see if she's a gold or some form of silvery kind of gal. Then, when you're at the counter, select a pendant she'll find meaningful. Hearts are pretty safe, though try to find something with a little more character but not outlandish or intricate. And, unless you know her size for sure, shy away from rings. If she's a time tracker, a beautiful watch might set her heart ticking!

And no matter what you do - be sure to get her a card, as every mom I know keeps them for years to come. Keep in mind though: purchase humorous cards with caution, as some moms really don't like them!