Val's View: Mother's Day Gift Guide

Who is she? Mother, Mom, Mommy, Mum, Nana…No matter how you address her this day in May, let's try to honor and cherish this superhuman multitasker. This lady may be connected to you through biology or marriage; maybe she's chosen family?

Either way, she likely wears several hats, including chauffeur, chef, therapist, bodyguard, tutor, and even chief negotiator during family warfare. Family dynamics aren't always smooth. We all know that, but one thing we can't deny is a mother's love is like no other. Moms don't get it right every time, but they try and try again to win that affection we all crave. Symbiosis still a work in progress? You are most likely, not alone. When it comes to giving, this is her thing.

Here are a few ideas to get you thinking about the beloved matriarch in your life. First, consider what she likes to spend her time doing.

Does your Earth Momma have a green thumb? Gardening is making a big comeback lately - it's such a relaxing way to connect with nature. An herb garden may be on her wish list. If she forgets to wear sun protection, we have UPF50+ Willow or Hera Floral sun shirts that will keep her skin safe. If she loves flower power, a gardenia bush is hearty and fragrant, and they attract butterflies and ladybugs, which are irresistible to a nature lover. Succulents are cool and easy upkeep; they look great on a tray with several shapes and sizes.

Got a foodie mom? Lucky you! Culinary queens may be inspired by new tools to create family kitchen competitions. We just did a father-son pizza challenge. Judging this one as a mom was tough. I managed after several slices. NYC vs. Chicago? I went with the NYC hands down. A customized cutting board is a keeper. You can wrap it up with an adorable pair of Coconut row black ankle pants and the paint strokes ruffle top. If she has a sweet tooth and an ice pop mold maker surprise and delight her with the Anthony's Resort Wear Popsicle Asymmetrical Knit Top.

The Homebody Mama loves to feel pampered, so a hair mask and a Eucalyptus essential oil in the bath will have her feeling like she is at the spa in the comfort of her own home. A Whisper Knit Loungewear Set in heather grey adds a touch of cozy and luxury.

Dreamers and literary lovers like me that are into repurposing furniture and clothing will live in a Kaktus Linen Palazzo Pant and the Tie Bottom Linen Dress. I'm a romantic at heart, and feeling feminine at any age feels excellent.

Do you have an art lover lady in the family? Get this mom going on the creative path. Where the Wildflowers Grow by Adriana Picker is a wonderland of botanical illustrations to be colored for adults. Add a set of colored pencils and get her a pair of the Via Ritina Splatter Paint Ankle Denim pants or the Floral Patch style as they are both funky and flattering. I get a kick out of seeing people express their personality through clothing, especially moms and grandmas. An art collector friend of mine told me her grandkids call her Glamma, and she has definitely earned that title.

Mover and a shaker? With temperatures and tempers rising, a late afternoon swim keeps the mood and mind chilled. The Gypsea Soul Snap Front Racerback Tankini by Beach House is perfect for laps and keeps the sporty mom feeling stylish. It's nice to switch up your style once, and a while and Zac and Rachel have the perfect Bermuda shorts for a bike ride or a walk. If you have a fair-skinned mermaid in the family tree, why not order a waterproof sun hat and an ocean-inspired Coral Mock Neck UPF50+ Top by Anthony's Resort Wear to protect her. We all know she slathered tons of sunscreen on us to protect us over the years, it's only fair to return the favor.

When thinking about Mom this year, just remember we hung out in her belly for 9 whole months, stretching out things beyond what seems possible, including her patience. She's the tooth fairy, tear wiper, secret keeper, permission giver, and ultimate empathizer. Whatever gift or gesture you decide on, it never gets old to feel loved back. She will know you had her in mind, and that alone will make her day.

xx. Val