I am so grateful to be able to consider my mom one of my best friends, and I know that a lot of people aren’t as lucky. My mom is the strongest, bravest, most compassionate woman I know. My dad died when I was a kid, which left my mom with me and my two younger brothers. She became a single mother, by no choice of her own. She’s always done way more than enough for the three of us to make sure that we had a happy childhood. She works full-time at a job she doesn’t exactly love, goes to school full-time, and has dealt with raising my brothers and me.

How on Earth am I supposed to find a fitting Mother’s Day present for someone who deserves the world? She deserves so much more than I can afford with the $4 I have in the bank. Luckily, there are a few things I know she would love, that aren't going to force me to spend the last of my money.

1. Clean the house

I can’t count how many times my mom has said, “I don’t need a real gift, just clean my house and make me an omelet.” I can’t cook, and I don’t like to clean (who does?), so I haven’t done this for her yet. I might just consider it this year.

2. Make a coupon book

Think of anything that your mom would enjoy, and write it down, type it up, whatever. Here are some ones that would work for my mom, for inspiration: a backrub without complaining, clean up and do the dishes after dinner, full control of the TV for a day. I mean, even if you don’t feel like writing our typing these, there are a bunch online to print out.

3. Make a photo collage

Go on your Facebook, Instagram, and even consider going through old actual photo albums to find all the pictures you can of the two of you. Printing out copies of old pictures and making a collage would be a really sweet thing to do for her. Your mom will love the glimpse into your childhood, I promise. If she’s anything like mine, she might even cry.

4. Plan a movie night

Go on Netflix and find either your mom’s favorite movie or the most motherhood-related movies that you can find. The movie doesn’t have to be cheesy. Freaky Friday is always a good choice. I can guarantee that your mother will absolutely love spending quality time with you watching a great show.

5. Tell her you love her and that you're thankful for her

This is the quickest and easiest thing you can do for your mother, and I’m positive that it will have the most impact. When was the last time you told your mom how thankful you are for everything she’s done for you? I know I don’t say it as often as I should. Those few words will make her whole day, I promise.