The Nugget Newspaper - News and Opinion from Sisters, Oregon

With cities and communities still under stay-at-home orders across Oregon and schools and offices closed for the foreseeable future, it’s not surprising that COVID-19 would impact Mother’s Day plans this year.

It has been 106 years since President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed the second Sunday in May as Mother’s Day. Mothers need to be celebrated, and on May 10, 2020 it is still all about cherishing the relationships with the moms in your life.

Mother’s Day is a special day to show your gratitude for the maternal figure in your life. Whether it’s your mom, your grandma, an aunt, your wife, or someone else, honoring that person might look a bit different this year as we deal with the coronavirus pandemic.

Given this year’s unique circumstances, many of you are celebrating the holiday at home or even away from the women that you love.

Although some Mother’s Day traditions such as going to the spa and fancy dinners are next-to-impossible this May, remember, Mother’s Day isn’t canceled. With some creativity and preparation, you can give your mom or mother of your children the special day she deserves.

For those of you who made plans to visit your mom this weekend — a virtual Mother’s Day will do — thanks to FaceTime, Skype, WhatsApp and Zoom, the video chat can be almost as good as the real deal. Your mom would be thrilled if she sat down in front of her computer on Mother’s Day and discovered you arranged a virtual Zoom party with family and favorite friends.

Buy her a book on her favorite subject and shop locally at Paulina Springs Bookstore in Sisters.

What about baking with the kids? It’s a learning activity and a lot of fun, whether you’re figuring out how to make zucchini brownies work or going for donuts and cookies.

Small gestures that demonstrate your love and appreciation that are easy to make such as crafting a Mother’s Day card. A little celebration can go a long way.

It’s no secret that the biggest treat for moms on Mother’s Day is the chance to have someone else do the washing, cleaning, and cooking.

Surprise your mom or wife with fresh coffee, orange juice, and pancakes with breakfast in bed. This is an easy solution to keep your kids engaged and excited, while cooking up something delicious for mom.

If the weather’s good, be sure to get outside and take a socially distanced walk with the family, including the dog.

Then pull out all the stops with a homemade evening meal that will warm her heart — especially because she won’t have to do a thing. Including the dishes.