How do I love thee? A Love Letter to Mom for #MothersDay

Why a Love Letter to Mom is the Perfect Gift:

Parenting can be tough ...

Two years ago I wrote this post, but it's just as true today as it was two years ago. The day to day trials of parenting two now young adult boys is challenging, at least in my experience. On the really bad days, when I question myself and my parenting skills being able to put out and read something that reminds me that my efforts do not go completely unnoticed is a gift. A Love Letter to Mom is what I really need more than flowers, chocolates, jewellery or brunch. 

The importance of articulation and communication ...

The act of my sons thoughtfully articulating why they love me is a gift I'll cherished more than any they can buy. In some ways it's a gift to them as well; as it makes them examine their feelings, and even if just a little, become more comfortable being open about and sharing those feelings. I know the ability to articulate and communicate their feelings will impact their happiness and every relationship they have in life. But maybe more important, learning to share their feeling and reach out when they're unhappy or in crisis may actually save their life. If I can help my kids do this, it's a gift. 

Post from May 7th, 2014:
"Getting teenage boys to share their feelings is no easy task, but never being one to shy away from a challenge, I've decided to ask my two teenage boys to do just that. I'm asking them to focus 100% of their attention on the specific task of writing a two or three paragraph essay or letter, once a year, telling me why I am important, inspirational, or add value to their lives, including a few specific actions, activities or memories over the last year that are meaningful to them."
Read more...

To the Moms out there Happy Mother's Day, to those missing their Moms on Mother's Day I hope you have some happy memories you can cherish and hold on to, and to those dreaming about being Moms may your dreams come true.

Yep, just me Cathy thinking out loud and again about Love Letters to Mom for Mother's Day.

THOUGHTFUL GIFT IDEAS YOU MAY NOT HAVE THOUGHT OF!

I often struggle with what to give friends and family that seem to have everything. Here are a few gift ideas you may not have thought of, but that are very thoughtful gifts!

I am loving COZI Family . It is a free calendar and organization app, that you can upgrade to the paid option of COZI GOLD. Great for keeping all the busy family schedules connected and up to date. I especially love the lists function for Groceries, Packing etc. Be sure to visit the Cozi Site for tons of great recipes, meal ideas, and tips on everything from travel to finance. 

NETFLIX CANADA allows you to stream movies and shows to your TV or other devices like a tablet, or phone. Perfect for Snowbird parents, your kids, or for a carpooling Mom who is sitting waiting at yet another game or lesson. You can get a 1 month trial for free, and it is only $7.99 per month for the service should you decide to sign up. You may require a Media Player such as the Roku which can be purchased for under $100.

You can give the gift of personal security to yourself, family and friends by sharing and downloading REACT Mobile free app. This app allows you to share your location with your contacts as well as has an emergency function that prompts a 911 call button.

Another online option I love is ZINIO Digital Magazines. You can get all your favourite magazines delivered right to your inbox. In my case feel free to get me a tablet to read them on too!

Lastly an ereader like a KOBO or a KINDLE is a great gift. The gift of reading in a light weight portable package is at the top of my wish list. There are many books that can be downloaded for free, you can borrow ebooks from your local library, or if you are really lucky you'll get a gift card in your stocking! Its perfect for travelling, and fits in your pocket or purse so you can take it with you where ever you go.

I'm Cathy thinking out loud about Holiday giving.

Note: I have not been compensated in anyway for this post. These are completely my own opinions.

ADD THIS TO YOUR GIFT GUIDE! GIANT LEGO MINI FIGURE HEAD STORAGE CONTAINERS

Check out these Giant Lego Mini Figure Head Storage Containers. Not only do it keep all the Lego pieces stored away, but it does so in the coolest of ways! Nothing is cooler than Lego mini figures!
I found these at Costco for $28.99.





For some AMAZING Do It Yourself Lego Mini Figure Head Storage Ideas check out: 
http://www.mamawithideas.com/2011/10/lego-minifig-head-storage-container.html
THESE ARE FANTASTIC!