We honor our mothers and celebrate motherhood each year on the second Sunday in May. But how should we show our love and appreciation to the motherly figures in our lives? I’m talking about the wonderful women who birthed us, raised us, reminded us on numerous occasions to pick up our dirty clothes, suffered through our teen years, and have been a strong maternal influence in our lives.Starting in mid-April, advertisers bring forth the traditional tried and true gift ideas including the usual flowers, jewelry, fine dining and of course, the sampler box of chocolates. This year, I decided to seek out some non-traditional, out-of-the-box gift ideas for Mother’s Day:

1. Make your own View-Master reels

Gather up some favorite digital photos that will stir up some fond memories for Mom and turn them into a nostalgic View-Master reel.

2. Book a destination spa vacation

What mom doesn’t want a getaway? If you can afford such a gift, send Mom on a spa vacation to get away from it all…alone…without the kids!

3. Give back with a charity gift card

Mom can “spend” this gift card on the charity of her choice. This gift can be paired with a homemade book of coupons including “one free hug,” or better yet “one free toilet cleaning.”

4. Log on to Pinterest

Use Mom’s Pinterest board as a resource for other gift ideas that you can make or buy for her. Chances are if it’s pinned, she will like it.

5. Good old peace and quiet (no assembly required!)

Not all moms will admit it, but sometimes we just want some alone time. After treating Mom to a wonderful lunch that she does not have to cook or clean, take the kids out for the afternoon and give Mom some peace and quiet to indulge in her favorite movie, book or more pinning on Pinterest.

To my wonderful husband and kids: if you can’t swing number two, I will gladly enjoy number 5.