Mother’s Day is a time to celebrate the one person who affects us more profoundly than any other. Mothers, or those who take on the responsibility of “mother” during our formative years, shape much of who we are good, bad, or otherwise. From infancy through adulthood, the role a mother plays is multifaceted and ever changing. It is seldom predictable and often challenging. It requires strength and selflessness. It requires love.

For the endless list of things she does, has done and will do, take the time to tell her how much you appreciate her. Treat her like a queen for the day, in honor of her ability to withstand the royal pain you’ve been on occasion. Small tokens and gestures will mean a lot, but, by all means, splurge on a trip to the islands if you’re feeling really generous.

Let Mom sleep in for a change and fix breakfast for her. Cleaning up the kitchen afterwards is not optional. Set the table (or a tray if you’re brave enough to serve her breakfast in bed) with a spray of flowers you’ve picked from the garden or from your local nursery. Make or purchase a frame to hold a favorite photograph of the two of you. If your mom likes to read, give her a book you know she’ll enjoy, fluff up the pillows on a favorite comfy chair and just let her be.

For an afternoon indulgence, serve her a cup of coffee or tea and a sweet treat you’ve made yourself. The following recipe for Nutty Popcorn Fudge is sure to be a hit. It combines three delicious and mouth-watering ingredients: Popcorn, almonds and chocolate. Tell her it’s a good-for-you-treat, because popcorn is a whole grain food. You shouldn’t have trouble convincing her and she’ll appreciate that her years of trying to get you to eat right have finally paid off!