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She deserves the best but you've only got $10. Show mom how much you appreciate her this holiday by giving her what she really wants: time with you.

For the reader: Books make great gifts but you can do one better for mom. Call your local libraries and bookstores to find a book club that will interest both of you. Search for the January title at used or bargain bookstores (try Half Price Books). On Christmas give mom the book with a personalized note telling her when and where to join you for the next club meeting.

For the outdoors-woman: Contact the local parks and recreation department to find a winter appropriate walk or hike in your area. City parks, university campuses or greenhouses are the best bet if you live in a particularly cold or snowy region. Give mom a map of the route and an itinerary for your date. Pack a lunch and a thermos of hot coffee or cocoa, bundle up and appreciate the winter wonderland with your mom.

For the cultured: Plan an outing to the local art walk. They are usually held the first Thursday or Friday of the month and entry is free or reduced for museums and galleries. Give mom a brochure or route map and arrange to pick her up. Meet for coffee beforehand or share a bottle of local wine afterward.

For the out-of-towner: You may not be able to spend time with her but you can spend time on her by starting a pen-pal journal. Get a small journal (Barnes & Noble Basic Black Journal, $4.95) and writer her a letter. Paste in photos, ticket stubs, pamphlets or other items detailing your recent activities. Mail it off to mom along with postage for her to mail it back. Continue mailing it back and forth until it's full. $10 will get you started but postage will be a small recurring cost.

Still stuck? Make her dinner. Give her a formal invitation requesting an R.S.V.P. Dress up the table with your best dishes and linen. Serve the meal in courses, it will make her feel pampered even if it's salad from a bag and pasta. If possible, ask a friend or family member to be a "waiter." Mom will appreciate the effort and thought you've put into the evening.

Remember, no matter what you give mom this holiday she'll appreciate it as much as she does you.

Learn more about this author, R.E. Parks.
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