Mother’s Day is just around the corner, but there’s no need to panic about not being prepared. We’ve got ideas for the perfect gift (that won’t make your wallet weep), and tips for strengthening your relationship, whether you’re 10 feet down the hall or 500 miles away. And if you just want to get a little nostalgic about your relationship, we’ve got something for that too. So, settle in and get your mom appreciation on with these five articles.
6 Mother’s Day Gift Alternatives
“Mother’s Day is just around the corner, and while you may be tempted to go into panic mode (like I was!) hold the brakes and breathe. You may not have a gift for her yet, but in this case, procrastination may be a good thing, because perhaps an alternative gift for Mom is just what she needs this year. Flowers and jewelry are great, but here are six great gifts Mom will appreciate on her special day, and the best part is, you don’t have to spend a ton of money to make it happen.” Read more.
Home for Dinner: Learning How to Live with My Parents in My Late 20s
“Over the last several years, I moved in and out of my parents’ home a handful of times in between various school or career opportunities. However, my most recent move back home has turned into more of an indefinite stay rather than a temporary one. Although I wanted to be the independent, carefree, single woman that I was, my parents could not not be the parents that they were (and still are). After a few months, every single time I would leave the house, my dad would ask me: “Will you be home for dinner?” After a few weeks of hearing it every day, I came to understand the deeper meanings behind that single question.” Read more.
Ways to Strengthen Your Relationship With Your Parents
“A few months before I turned 25, I decided to move back in with my parents, into my childhood bedroom. I thought by moving home – spending more time together, learning more about them, and in turn, starting anew – we could fix things between us and end up with a stronger connection in the long run. Wanting to repair and refine the relationship that most defines us, the one we have with our parents, is a common desire for those of us in our 20s and 30s. Now that we’re adults, it’s time to get to know our parents better. Here are some ideas for strengthening that relationship.” Read more.
Things Your Parents Told You That You Know Are True Now
“In our 20s, we realize parents are a lot wiser than we thought. As I coast into my early 30s, I understand more and more just how much my dad, who passed away in 2014, and my mom were right about so many things. Each one of these began as simple advice but turned out as valuable life lessons for me.” Read more.
Long-Distance Family: Staying Connected Across the Miles
“Since college, I’ve moved numerous times—sometimes closer to my family, other times not so much. While I am a firm supporter of consistent contact through weekly phone calls, responding to silly group texts, and homemade cards for every occasion, I realized this communication could be expanded upon. Over the past few years, my family and I have developed creative tactics to stay close with one another even when miles loomed between us.” Read more.