Meaningful Mother's Day gifts always have a place
Cut flowers fade, chocolates get eaten and leave a sense of guilt. I can guarantee there isn't a mom out there who really wants that iron or vacuum cleaner for Mother's Day. As the mother of a seven year old, I can say there is nothing as sweet or endearing as a card or gift made by my daughter's own hands.Last year she made me a very special gift. It was an empty box (or so I thought) tied with a green ribbon. A poem was attached. It read:
This is a very special gift that you can never see. The reason it's so special is it's just for you from me. Whenever you are lonely or ever feeling blue, you only have to hold this gift and know I think of you. You never can unwrap it, please leave the ribbon tied. Just hold the box close to your heart. It's filled with love inside.
Daddies, older siblings and teachers can help younger children create beautiful, one-of-a-kind cards and gifts with items you probably already have around the house. Here are a few ideas.
Tissue Paper Flower Card
This is a great project because even young children can do it without much help.
Tools and Materials:
Tissue paper confetti circles (You can make your own from tissue, magazine, or other lightweight paper.)
Tweezers
Craft glue
Ready-made card, or card stock
Acrylic, watercolor paints or brush tip marker
Instructions:
1.Pick up a paper circle with a pair of tweezers (or your fingers if they are tiny) and dip it into the glue. Place the circle, glue side down, onto the card. Allow the glue to dry completely. Twirl the paper gently with your fingers or a pencil eraser to create a three-dimensional effect. Use the same method to add a smaller circle in a contrasting color to the center of the first circle. Add as many as three layers.
2. Paint on a stem, if desired (or use a brush-tip marker).
Thumbprint Flower Card
This is so special because it contains a thumbprint unique to your child.
Tools and Materials:
Non-toxic water-based paint or ink
Markers or crayons
Ready-made card or card stock
Instructions:
1.To make the center of the flower dip thumb in small amount of paint or ink and press it onto the card.
2. Add petals and a stem using markers or crayons.
Tea Stained Eggs
Tools and Materials:
4 Tablespoon loose tea (different varieties will allow you to control the color)
4 Whole Star Anise
8 eggs
Sea Salt
Instructions:
1. Place 8 cups water in a three quart sauce pan.
2. Add loose tea, star anise and eggs.
3. Bring to a boil and immediately turn off heat, cover and let sit for 15 minutes.
4. With a slotted spoon remove the eggs one at a time. Using a towel to cover the egg, gently crack the egg shells by tapping with the back of the spoon. Do not remove the shells.
5. Return the eggs to the tea. Cover and simmer for one hour. Let eggs sit in tea in refrigerator overnight.
6. Drain the eggs and keep in sealed container for up to one week. To serve, peel the eggs and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
There is no need to spend a lot of money on a special gift. Your time means more than anything. Moms appreciate the little things; a day planting in the garden, a bike ride, a picnic, and a handmade card or gift that she will still cherish when her kids are not so little anymore. It is because of you after all, she is a mother.