The average person spends $98 on a Mothers day gift. A mother’s worth is immeasurable in monetary terms and should be showered with love and gifts on a daily basis.

For those on a tight budget it is not always possible and is not necessary to show love and thanks in a material way. Here are a few thoughts on what Mom may appreciate this Mother’s Day.

Become an Investigative Reporter:

Start interviewing Dad, Aunts, Uncles, and family friends to find out what Mom had passion for prior to having a family. Was it Salsa Dancing? Hiking? Painting? Running for political office? Whatever it ends up being, research activities, groups and courses in her area that will allow her to fulfill her dreams. Present the information in a pretty homemade information packet and offer to do one or two of the activities with her to get mom started.

Book of Thanks:

Create a “Thank You” book for Mom. On each page write a message of thanks such as, "Thank you for always packing my lunch,"; “Thank you for always cheering me on” or "I am thankful that you taught me the value of hard work."

Non-traditional Coupon Book:

Instead of giving mom the old stand-by 10 coupons that are worth one time quick deals try a book of promises instead. Such as: “one promise to cook one meal a week as long as I live in this home.”, “one promise to have an uninterrupted hour of time together a month“, “one promise to allow mom to watch whatever show she wants without complaint once a week”, “one promise to cut the lawn when it needs to be cut without being asked to do it”. The idea is to help Mom out with real tangible tasks in the home.

4 Days a Year:

For those with Moms who live alone, allocate 4 days per year to spend doing things around her house such as: cleaning windows, changing light bulbs and air conditioner filters, working in her yard, hauling away trash, painting, anything she finds difficult to do for herself anymore. Recruit family members to help too.

Frugal Fanatic Tip:

For a mom who is financially strapped or simply having a little trouble saving for retirement, put together a pretty folder of cost cutting ideas. Include pages on how to cut the electric bill, water bill, food costs, etc. Offer to be an active participant in helping her cut costs by installing a low flow shower head, compact fluorescent light bulbs, lowering her water heater to 120 degrees, giving her a price book of regular things she buys and which stores have the best prices. Happy Mother’s Day!