May is my mom’s favorite month of the year. Unlike her birthday — which she and I share — May has the only holiday that she gets to herself: Mother’s Day. Mother’s Day is a time to honor the sacrifices our mothers and mother figures have made for us, as well as the unwavering strength and support they always show. This year, Mother’s Day falls on May 14, so it’s time to plan the gifts, breakfast in bed, and what you’ll write in your Mother’s Day card.Â
For all of you who are celebrating Mother’s Day, it can be difficult trying to condense all your love into a single letter. There’s so much to say, and yet so little space to jam everything in. For me, I usually find it easier to get a present for my mom than to attempt to write a card. Hallmark’s personalized messages have been a lifesaver on more than one occasion, though they lack the sincerity of something handwritten. If you’re at a loss for words, don’t worry — I’ve got you covered. Whether you like to keep your cards short and sentimental or brimming with wit, the perfect message is out there.
- Reference her favorite show.
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Bonding is all about the little gestures, like agreeing to watch your mom’s favorite show with her. This Mother’s Day, give her a card that tells her you cherish these binge-watching sessions you share together. Whether it’s Moira Rose’s “bébés” or Lorelei Gilmore’s words of wisdom, throw some TV references into your message — your mom will eat it up.
- Show her you listen.
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Active listening is one of the simplest ways of showing you care about someone. While you’re crafting your card, feel free to include nods to stories your mom’s told you — even if she’s repeated them over and over again. It’s nice to feel heard, and I’m sure your mom will appreciate the fact that you remembered these details of her life.
- Tell her what you’re grateful for.
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It’s important to practice gratitude on Mother’s Day — and on all days of the year, tbh. There’s so much that your family does for you that deserves recognition. Just to scratch the surface, you could mention how thankful you are for her advice, her jokes, or her fashion advice. Naturally, you’ll want to be a bit more specific, so think of recent examples where your mom has saved the day.
- Showcase your creative side.
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Not everyone’s a poet, but on a Mother’s Day card, you can be. Jot down a little rhyme for your mom, or to make matters easier, borrow a few lines from a pre-existing poem or song. Just remember: There’s a fine line between being sentimental and sappy. Either way, your mom will probably adore whatever you write.
- Pictures speak louder than words.
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When words fail, turn to pictures. What better way is there to honor your mom than sharing some of your favorite memories together? From baby pictures to recent photos, your mom is bound to shed some tears over whatever you include.
- And of course, wish her a happy mother’s day.
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That’s what this card is all about, anyway. Whether you’re celebrating this holiday with one mom, or two, or a few, or if you’re sending your love to a mother you’ve lost, I hope your day is filled with joy and compassion.