Gifts to give when Mother’s Day arrives on Sunday
OK the day we give thanks to mom and all that she has sacrificed and done for us is nearly here.
Mother’s Day is on Sunday, May 10.
Whether you have a well-endowed wallet and can afford to take mom on a cruise around the world or you have just enough change to buy a pack of gum – it matters not.
As long as some effort and thought is shown to mom, she will most likely be happy and all will be well in the world – your world that it is.
For those of you who are a bit tight on cash this year or want to do something a bit more creative here’s some suggestions.
Thrifty and fabulous gift ideas:
n Take mom to one of the pristine island beaches. On Sanibel and Captiva beach goers can watch the rolling aqua waters along side a plethora of wildlife including snowy plovers, tortoises, elegant herons and raptors. All of this for a nominal parking fee. Throw in a picnic basket with mom’s favorite soft drink and munchies and you could be set for a great holiday. If you are feeling a bit creative you can take a picture of the event and email it to the Islander for possible publication. It’s a chance for mom to be famous on the islands. Email pictures to Ella Nayor at enayor@breezenewspapers.com
n Take mom for a bike ride around the islands and stop for a light lunch or frozen confection at one of the local eateries. If you are feeling adventurous you can pack a lunch containing mom’s favorite treats.
For those who don’t want to leave the comforts of home on Mother’s Day here are a few movie suggestions given by the Breeze newspapers Sanibel staff. Some are sentimental while others are geared for the funny momma.
Movies to watch on Mother’s Day
When it comes to funny movies about mothers, few can top the comedic pairing of Albert Brooks and Debbie Reynolds in the 1996 film, “Mother.”
John Henderson (Brooks), a science fiction novelist dealing with a major case of writer’s block, moves back into his childhood home with his widower mother (Reynolds) in an attempt to figure out where everything went wrong. The pair clash from the moment he arrives, as mom and son quickly discover that they have different habits, interests and inclinations. She balks at his becoming a vegetarian and desire to buy an overpriced jar of gourmet jelly; he squirms when she talks matter-of-factly about sex and her interpretation of his novel.
However, they eventually discover a mutual appreciation for writing and respect for one another’s individuality.
Brooks and Reynolds are perfectly cast in this charming, laugh out loud film which tagline reads: “Mother – No one misunderstands you better!”
“The Other Sister” is a heartwarming tale about an overprotective mother and society housewife (Diane Keaton) dealing with her mentally challenged twenty-something daughter, Carla (Juliette Lewis), who falls in love with a challenged young man named Daniel (Giovanni Ribisi). Despite the pleas of her husband (Tom Skerritt) to allow Carla to spread her wings and fly from the nest, mother intercepts every notion her daughter has to live her life independently.
Eventually, Carla begins to take classes at a technical school and moves in to her own apartment. But with every stumble along the way, mother interferes with an “I told you so” attitude and discourages her daughter from dating Daniel, whose passion for Carla rivals only his passion for marching bands.
Both Lewis and Ribisi shine in their roles in this 1999 Garry Marshall film, who also directed maternal-themed movies including “Overboard” (1987), “Beaches” (1988), “Raising Helen” (2004) and “Georgia Rule” (2007).
– Jeff Lysiak – executive editor for the Island Reporter and Islander.
If all else fails find a great sea shell that reminds you of your mom and give it or send it to her. And if a gift of the sea doesn’t work out there is always pen, paper and your own imagination to create a special Mother’s Day card.
Good luck and Happy Mother’s Day!