Mother's Day Gifts- Get Ready!

Mother's Day is coming this weekend, just as we are polishing off the last chocolate eggs from the Easter basket. Hmm...sounds a bit like Halloween and also Valentine's Day, right? Why is it that most of our American holidays focus on CANDY? Mind you, I love chocolate, but the truth is that I have been popping beautiful pastel peanut M&M's into my mouth each time I pass through my kitchen and hear the Easter candy bowl calling my name.

At the same time that we are fretting about trying on swimsuits and fitting into summer clothing, we are working to "finish up" the Easter candy. Kind of counter productive, isn't it? So, first of all, let's give away the rest of the candy (if it's still sitting around.) Secondly, let's pamper Mom with gifts she'll enjoy that promote her health- physical, mental or spiritual.

So, what do moms like? Are you feeling rich? Offer her spa certificates or maybe a gym membership. Not quite so loaded? How about a simple manicure (usually around $15) or a lovely smelling candle or body lotion, or a new exercise outfit? Totally broke? No worries- go for HOME MADE; a simple meal (that MOM does NOT have to prepare OR clean up), cleaning her car inside and out, or jumping in and doing "her" jobs for the day, like a load of laundry or walking the dog.

If you REALLY want to touch your Mom's heart, check back tomorrow see what my guest blogger, psychologist David Palmiter,PhD, thinks is the PERFECT gift for Mom or anyone you truly love...

BOTTOM LINE: Skip the chocolate this year and celebrate MOTHER's DAY with a health-promoting gift!

The GIFT of HEALTH

'Tis the season of giving, and many of us are trying to find the perfect gifts for our friends and families. Before you choose gift baskets loaded with wine, chocolate, and other delicious goodies, though, stop and think. Is this the right gift for your friend who is struggling with her weight or your brother who has high cholesterol and "borderline" diabetes? Well, maybe not, but hey, it's the holidays, right? Doesn't everyone deserve a little treat? And they LOVE chocolate...
Well, yes, I agree that everyone deserves a treat, but is it really a treat if we're giving them something that harms their bodies or works against their health goals? If your friend is fit and healthy, knock yourself out with edible treats with a clear conscience. BUT... if they are NOT, why not focus on gifts that encourage health? Mind you, I'm not suggesting sticking a bow on a bag of carrots, either. How about fun workout socks or a new top? Buy matching pedometers for you and a buddy or two for some friendly competition or at least mutual encouragement. How about a gift certificate for a massage or manicure or pedicure? Or a new healthy cookbook? Out of money (and who isn't?) Make a gift certificate for a outing to a park or walk around the lake or a bike ride. Be creative!
I would be remiss if I also didn't put in a pitch for charitable giving this year. Our non-profits are struggling, too, so consider them as an alternative if you have friends or business associates with whom you typically exchange gift baskets. Our local Hospice, for example, has a program where you can purchase an angel ornament for $25- your gift recipient gets the ornament, Hospice gets the funds, and everyone gets the spiritual health gift of helping others! (http://www.hospiceaustin.org/site/pp.asp?c=bdJPITMyA&b=1556229)
BOTTOM LINE: Think twice before sending out edible treats to ALL your friends and family this year, and show you really care by giving gifts that promote physical, mental or spiritual health! Happy Holidays!