This year is one most of us will probably never forget - COVID-19 has rewritten our reality in truly unexpected ways. Like so many other plans we thought we could count on, Mother's Day is going to look a little bit different this year - special brunch at a favorite restaurant, date night, and multigenerational celebrations will have to wait.

There are still ways to celebrate the mother figures who give so much to our families. We’ve pulled together a collection of ideas for celebrating at home (partners and kiddos - this section is for YOU!), and inspiration for making Mother’s Day delightful for moms across the distance.

In an unforgettable year, Mother's Day 2020 is an occasion to make once-in-a-lifetime memories - or maybe start some sweet new traditions.

CELEBRATING THE MOMS YOU’RE SHELTERING IN PLACE WITH

• Breakfast in bed: An oldie, but a goodie. Hint: NOT TOO EARLY!

• Flowers: Whether wildflowers clutched in a toddler’s hand, or a gorgeous arrangement from a local florist, a bouquet brings brightness to Mother’s Day.

• Selfcare: Give mom some time to do what fills her cup, whether that’s a long bath, a long run, or a long nap.

• Victory garden: Plan a gardening project and join in to finish it - or make time for mom to putter in the garden. Despite COVID closures, you can still get gardening materials at these local Portland nurseries.

• Volunteer together: start (or continue) a tradition of supporting other moms and families in need through virtual volunteering.

• Spa date - at home: Get supplies for a DIY take on home spa - or go a little fancier.

• Special photos: Schedule a a porch portrait session with a local photographer to document the sweetness and the strangeness of this Quarantine Mother’s Day - or have the kids get behind the shutter for even more personalized photos.

• Happy hour: Support a local business by picking up a cocktail mix, and work with the kiddos on special snacks for an afternoon celebration.

• Takeout: A tasty treat for mom, especially if the rest of the family does the dishes - it’s also a way to support a local business in these tough economic times.

• A night at the movies: Can’t go to the movie theater? Bring the movie theater home by spiffing up the family room and making some movie theater popcorn for one of mom’s favorite movies.

• Books: Support a local bookstore by buying a gift certificate or a book on mom’s to-read list. These local Portland-area bookshops are operating on a limited basis.

CELEBRATING MOMS ACROSS THE (SOCIAL) DISTANCE

• Mail call: Write and mail a letter; include photos or crafts by the grandkids.

• Meal delivery: Order takeout from one of mom’s favorite restaurants - or drop off a meal if you live close enough.

• Zoom kitchen date: Send a recipe (or even the ingredients), and schedule a time bake or cook together.

• Spa-in-a-box: Imagine what might help mom relax and feel a little bit spoiled - then package it up and send her way.

• Virtual wine tasting: Have wine delivered and set up a video chat to taste and compare notes.

• Virtual happy hour: Schedule a visit with mom (include other family members, if you’d like) to chat together.

  • Extra points: Send some decor elements to make it feel like you’re all in the same place.

  • Bonus: Design a signature drink (alcoholic or not) for mom, so everyone can raise their glasses together.

  • Bring on the tears: Have everyone bring and share a favorite photo or memory of mom.

• More flowers: Order flower delivery from mom’s local florist - a sweet surprise and a way to support a small business who may be struggling.

• More books: Powell’s ships!

  Have a very happy Mother’s Day!