Published May 9, 2020
Outside the box Mother’s Day gifts for her home…that Mom actually wants!
Outside the box Mother’s Day gifts for her home…
- that Mom actually wants!
Kitchen need some updating? Start small, add a new tall kitchen faucet with a sprayer. Be sure to match metal colors currently in the space or explore other metal colors that are timeless like: Oil rubbed bronze, brushed nickel or black. The key here is to follow through with the tall faucet - Mom is worth the extra $30 right???
A simple way to transform mom's living space is to replace any non-working light fixtures… you know the ceiling fan that wobbles and makes a clunking noise… It's time to remind Mom of how worthy she is to receive such a nice gift. I mean we love fancy flamboyant fixtures but if you’re looking to assist in more ‘general’ no brainer lights nowadays they offer low cost LED light fixtures- they are simple in design and offer different lighting options all in one unit - such as bright white, cool, and warm.
Does Mom still have the powder pink or smurf blue toilet… you know because why fix what “ain't broke”... replace it! Typically in the pink and blue area the shower and sink matched, naturally those should be replaced or painted however, one easy item that will lessen the dateness- change the toilet to white.
Bathrooms and Kitchen are typically the “money makers” of the house so they are worth investing in. Newer products are out there that are affordable and easy to install, such as vinyl Plank or roll vinyl. Bathrooms are smaller so if you’re on a budget do that…… Mom babysat the kids for all of those years for little to no money and now you’d like to show her your appreciation for all that she has done, consider replacing the kitchen flooring with vinyl plank. Here are a few of my favorites.
Have a screened in porch or 3 season room that Mom doesn’t get to use that often because it’s so hot in there- have a ceiling fan installed. Ceiling fans can cool off a space by 10 degrees and they also help prevent pesky bugs from bothering Mom while she’s trying to relax.
Buy some perennials for Mom’s space. Most sold locally are somewhat native to the area and easy to maintain. Landscaping adds extra value to the home will make Mom feel extra special when neighbors compliment her yard. Want to show Mom what a “boss” kid she raised…. Consider buying her some plants that create privacy- people love the feeling of seclusion… and it’s an added bonus when selling because buyers LOVE It. To name a few there are a wide variety of evergreens (trees or shrubs), arborvitaes, or prairie grasses to name a few. Stop over at Wallaces, Teskes or your local nursery to talk to a horticulturist.
Mom’s siding, patio or deck a little dirty… power wash it! Not only is this super affordable, it really spruces up the space so Mom can focus on other projects. If you don’t have a powerwasher- ask a friend to borrow their or Home Depot or Ace’s hardware store typically have rentals.
Mom’s bedroom or living room still in the 80’s..paint it! Stop by Sherwin Williams, Behr or a paint store for samples. Ask an associate for the top neutral colors of the year.
TIME...In our family we say “Love is spelled T.I.M.E.” Grab a puzzle, do home projects together or schedule dinner a few times a month with Momma… or even your wife or significant other.
Mom looking for a companion? We can’t say enough about rescue dogs and cats. Our house has been welcomed by 2 rescue dogs and both have been such a blessing to have in our family. Think she might love the idea but not the long term commitment… look into an older dog. Many older dogs get overlooked...I say give a dog the best few years of their life- that’s how I want to be treated when I’m old- spoiled by love and treats! There's no greater feeling and sense of purpose than giving love and receiving love back from your furbaby.
The Human Animal Bond and Research Institute (link is external) has found that interacting with a pet can reduce anxiety and depression through an increase of oxytocin levels in the brain. Animal companions can also help reduce blood pressure and improve heart rates. While many people’s daily routines have been changed, a pet’s strict schedule including feeding, time outdoors, and getting rest, offers owners something called “ontological security.” That’s a sense of order and a more positive outlook at a time when those may be missing.See Kings Harvest Pet rescue, Quad City Animal Welfare Center - look into local shelters near you.
