Plan ahead for Mother's Day surprise Published May 5, 2009 By Capt. Ashley Norris 99th Air Base Wing Public Affairs NELLIS AIR FORCE BASE, Nev. -- The month of May is full of important events such as Cinco de Mayo, Military Spouse Day, Armed Forces Day and Memorial Day, those dates are 5, 8, 17 and 26 respectively. May is also National Military Appreciation Month, Mental Health Awareness Month and Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. However, the most important event happens on May 10, Mother's Day. Mother's Day is when we step back from the everyday grind of life and thank our mothers for everything they have done for us throughout the years. They changed diapers, bandaged countless knees and elbows and helped us through the ups and downs of our teenage years, or perhaps they are the young wife that is still somewhere in that tumultuous process. Mothers selflessly give their time and love to us, so on every second Sunday in May the least we can do is step back and say "thank-you," let them know how much they are loved and appreciated, and make them feel like queens for at least one day. Usually fathers and children make a run to the jewelry and card store Saturday evening to make the obligatory purchase. However, there are many more creative and less expensive options available that would put a big smile on every mother's face. The Nellis Arts and Crafts center has plain ceramic coffee cups and saucers, plates, tea pots or even margarita glasses that are ready to paint. Staff there can help children and adults make a unique work of art. Masterpieces need to be finished by May 7 to allow for kiln time. Carnations are given around the world to mothers; they come in a variety of colors and are less expensive than roses. This puts a large bouquet within a reasonable price range and with preservatives may last for up to 15 days. Dining at a fine restaurant and not having to deal with cooking and cleaning has always been a popular option. However, according to Steven C. Anderson, president of the National Restaurant Association, "Mother's Day is the most popular day of the year to dine out." So, if dining out on the busiest dining day of the year doesn't sound like fun, perhaps a picnic lunch on Mt. Charleston and some hiking would be an alternative. Think about what she enjoys doing and cater to that: reading, rock climbing, sewing, swimming or shopping. Call and find out if her favorite store, spa or locale are offering any specials and get her a gift card. For example, if she enjoys playing golf, take her to the Sunrise Vista Golf Course. They're offering a Mother's Day special of $5 off green fees. If bowling is up her alley, then from noon until 8 p.m. the Bowling Center is giving a free gift to the first 100 moms along with a special of buy one game get the second free. Put a spin on a Mother's Day card by using a family photo or a child's artwork for the cover and hand-writing a poem or note inside. For those with hideous handwriting, go online and have a photo card printed or use a calligraphy font. Young children can put their handprint on the cover of a card; their handprint can be framed or even used as wrapping paper for a gift. These are just a few options; there are more deals and ideas online. The gifts, ideas and activities that will make Mother's Day extraordinary are endless and are accommodating to every budget and every mothers taste. If all else fails, most jewelry stores will close Saturday, May 9 at 9 p.m.