1. Open when letters

I have both made and been given these letters, and I love them! I even decorated a box for the ones I gave to my mom. Some may think these sound silly, but they are such a cute idea!! You can let your creative side out with this one by having some serious letters and some silly letters. For example, when I graduated high school, a friend gave me open when letters for college.

One of them was titled "open when you're feeling down." When I opened this letter after a hard week, I not only got to read words of encouragement, but confetti fell out!! Such a fun idea!!

Supplies needed:

-note cards and envelopes

-pens/ markers

-a box and decor for it (if you wanted to! I got this one from Hobby Lobby I believe.)

2. The 365 Jar

This gift may be time-consuming, but it's so much fun! You can choose the different topics you want when you color code it, but I uploaded the one I made my mom as an example!! I divided my jar into scripture, random surprises, I love..., and memories. This gift not only gives you a chance to reflect on why you're thankful for your mom, but it also will bring a big smile to your mom's face when she sees the effort you put into making her a gift! She will be able to open one a day for an entire year!! (and who doesn't love a gift that lasts an entire year??)

Supplies needed:

- a jar

-colored paper

-pens and markers

3. Painting (canvas or boards)

You, by no means, have to be artistic at all to make this gift!! I am far from being a skilled artist, but I still enjoy painting. This idea is another way to be creative and give your mom something you made yourself!! You can paint a picture, a quote, or even song lyrics.

Supplies needed:

-paint

-paint brushes

-wooden planks or canvases

4. Photo album with handwritten descriptions

This gift can serve as a walk down memory lane when your mom is feeling nostalgic. Find some pictures of when you were younger to include. You can also use pictures from more recent memories. Highlight some of the most memorable moments (such as graduation or birthdays), but you can also highlight some of the smaller moments (such as a silly selfie with a snapchat filter.) Having these pictures is already a nice gift, but adding that extra aspect of writing descriptions with each one makes it even more special!

*TIP* I generally order my pictures from Walgreens because I can always find a coupon code online!!

Supplies needed:

-pictures

-photo album

-pens

5. Journal of appreciation

I haven't made this for my mom yet, but I have made this for a friend for her senior night for cheer. It was also time-consuming, but it was fun to make! And I know my friend loved it! It highlighted some memories we have made together, gave advice for college, and reasons I am thankful for our friendship. These topics could be tweaked for a journal for moms.

Supplies needed:

-journal

-pictures

-pens or markers

-tape or glue for pictures