Mother’s Day is around the corner, and you may suddenly be scrambling to pick up the perfect gift or trinket to show her just how much you care. Before you spend money on another item that she may or may not need or use, consider giving her a gift that comes directly from your heart.

If you really want to wow your mom this Mother’s Day, consider using your own two hands to make her something heartfelt and creative. If you aren’t crafty or artsy, you may want to take her to a favorite spot that you know she rarely has a chance to get to (a favorite park, walking trail or flower show, for example). Is your mom a hard worker who still takes care of everyone? Give her the day off, and take over her duties for a day (think: doing the laundry, cleaning up around the house, doing yard work or picking up groceries).

If the way to your mom’s heart is through her stomach or with words, you can cook her a meal, bake her a cake or write her a letter or poem to tell her how much she truly matters. No matter what makes your mom tick, give her the gift of attention and love this Mother’s Day, and we’re pretty sure she’ll get the message of how much you care.

Make Her Something
DIY’ers and crafty folks can make mom a piece of pottery, a container to hold flowers, a card, a notebook, journal or even a box to hold stationery. No matter what your personal style, moms love homemade gifts, and a gift made with your own two hands means more than a gift you buy, any day.

Take Her Somewhere
Have mom block out her calendar and take her out for adventure or a day of calm and relaxation. Visit the spa, pack a picnic for an outdoor lunch made by you, stop by her favorite flower shop or walk a nearby hiking trail you know she loves.

Do As She Does
Let your mom take the day off and be her stand-in for a day, taking over her responsibilities around the house or in your family. You can put in a few hours of laundry, cleaning, cooking or carpooling, or offer to tag in and help take over a project you know she’s been working hard to complete. No matter what, give her the gift of doing less!

Cook Her a Meal
Give your mom a break from working hard in the kitchen, and offer to prepare a delicious brunch, lunch or dinner for her and your family. Prepare a dish you know she loves, and consider baking up a sweet treat or dessert to finish it off!

Use Your Words
Write your mom a letter or a card and tell her just how much she matters to you. Include examples of times that she showed up for you, and how much it affected you. Use your words to express your gratitude and appreciation, and you’ll instantly warm your mom’s heart without spending a dime.