Compared to the gift they gave us, these ones are easy
What do moms like? Probably more than anything, they like their kids. And they also like knowing that their kids are thoughtful, caring human beings. This means that the most cherished gift this Mother's Day is going to be your presence and time.
But just think if you combined that with a small token or gesture of your appreciation!
Like what? We'd like to suggest these 10 ideas, and to wish moms everywhere a very happy Mother's Day.
1. Go for a walk
If the sun is shining, head outdoors to marvel at the arrival of spring and its glory of unfurling leaves, early blooms and chirpy birds. Courtesy of science and nature writer Joan Marie Galat (Biological Sciences Technology – Ecology '84), here are three Edmonton-area destinations to consider for a lovely stroll.
2. Artisanal chocolate
What says “I appreciate you” more than overly sweet, brown wax wrapped in cheap foil? Anything! Specifically, though, artisanal chocolates work well, such as those made by Compass Chocolates, owned by Priya Winsor (Baking and Pastry Arts ’19). Choose from creatively flavoured bars, gift boxes and more.
3. Flowers – but not just any flowers
Imagine if, instead giving a store-bought bouquet, you present mom with a collection of squash, carrots, onions and radishes. Having trouble envisioning her beaming smile? We're not done yet. Check out the video above featuring a past Culinary Arts chair as he transforms a bunch of groceries into a bunch of flowers. Give it a shot. Good luck! (Remember, it's the thought that counts.)
4. A creative gift box
Why stop at giving just one thing? Founded by Rima Tabet (Personal Fitness Trainer ’16), Gray Jay Gifts bundles up presents by themes – including Mother's Day. Choose from boxes bursting with wellness goodies, coffee and accessories, charcuterie delights, household knick knacks and more.
5. Plant something together
Give nature a personal touch by taking mom to the local garden centre, picking out something nice and planting it together in the yard where, each spring, all that unfurling and blooming will make her think of you. Need ideas? Here are reliable choices that have thrived on NAIT campus, and even some maple trees that will thrive in Alberta.
6. Birdwatching supplies
There are more than 400 bird species that call Alberta home. Given the popularity of birdwatching, chances are good that mom might not mind seeing a cheerful feathered friend pop by the back yard now and then. To help, outfit her with gear from Backyard Birds, co-owned by Jan Tollenaar (Biological Sciences Technology – Environmental Sciences ’87).
7. Try floating this idea
It's amazing the difference 1,000 pounds of salt can make to your state of mind. It's not just a pile of salt, of course. It's epsom salts dissolved in 34 C water in a float tank at Modern Gravity, owned and operated by Matt Smith (Personal Fitness Trainer ’11) and Jamie Phillips (Millwright ’12). Each tank is isolated in a sound-proof, light-proof room, allowing the occupant to float their cares away in absolute silence and solitude. Remember all those times that we deprived our mothers of peace and quiet? This will help make up for it.
8. Host a barbecue
Moms cooked a heck of a lot of excellent meals for us over the years, and passed along some invaluable tips and tricks that we still use today. So why not cook one in return – and make it just as good? Invite mom over and fire up the barbecue. With these quick grilling lessons from a Professional Meatcutting and Merchandising instructor, you might even be able to pass along a few tricks of your own.
9. Bake something together, for old time's sake
You could bring sweets to pair with tea or coffee on Mother's Day – or you could suggest that the two of you grab some aprons, roll up your sleeves and come up with something together. And there are few somethings more nostalgia-inducing than brownies. Try this recipe from award-winning food writer Renée Kohlman (Culinary Arts ’99).
10. Brunch (or lunch, or dinner)
If a classic Mother's Day brunch is just the thing, we've got your guide to finding a spot that's sure to hit the spot (they're just as good for lunch or dinner). Check out the NAIT Guide to Food and Drink and find something traditional, inventive, quirky, and always tasty. Get booking!
Banner image by AnthonyRosenberg/istockphoto.com