This Mother's Day might be a challenge for some children who are used to honoring Mom with a lavish brunch or dinner, and perhaps a lovely gift. Unfortunately, this year has put a crimp in the budget of many who would love to hire a limo and take their mother to her favorite restaurant. A generous offering from anyone, but for right now, it may be a lot more practical (and fun) to get creative.

Here are a few ideas:

• Bring Mom breakfast in bed with all the trimmings. Use the good dishes, linen napkins, and a flower from the yard.
• Invite the entire clan over for a Mother's Day barbeque or go for a picnic at one of your mother's favorite places.
• Make coupons for future favors which can include car washes, housework help, foot massages, and back rubs, as well as cooking a meal (and cleaning up afterwards).
• Interview all the family members on video and make her a memories disk.
• Make a card by hand or on the Internet. If you don't feel all that creative, there are plenty of websites where you can get e-cards. That being said, your own words will never disappoint the woman who brought you up.
• Use your camera and printer to make a family portrait, and put it in a nice frame. Your own artwork or a combined family piece will also be nicely received.