A day for mom

Mother's day is this Sunday (May 8th). Mother's Day is celebrated all around the world...in one form or another. I lost my mom to colon cancer 2 years ago, so Mother's Day has changed for me. Where once I made or bought trinkets for my mom, now I spend time remembering my lovely memories (I leave the not so lovely memories for other days of the year). On Mother's Day I cherish my time with my daughters...I certainly do value our time together more now.

So, if you are searching for the perfect gift for your mom this year, I say give her some time. Spending time and making memories is so much more priceless then anything you can buy.

If you are looking for a fantastic outing, check out the Evergreen Brickworks in Toronto. This past weekend my family headed there and had a wonderful time.

What is the Brickworks? The Brickworks was quite simply, the site of one of the largest brickyards in Canada, open from 1889 to the 1980's. Fortunately, the land and 16 buildings have been preserved and have been gradually given new functions. In the winter we head to the Brickworks to skate and in the summer we head to the outdoor farmer's market. Last weekend when we hit the Brickworks we found delicious food for lunch at the indoor farmer's market

and we explored the park, some 40 acres of park land.

climb a tree

make a structure out of bricks

count turtles (we found 15!)

run around in the grass

Here are some other great outdoor options for Mother's Day.

Toronto Zoo - Mother's day at the zoo mean checking out all the animal mamma's and Today's Parent will be there with all sort of handy info and giveaways

Toronto Botanical Garden - the TBG will be hosting a champagne luncheon (buy tickets in advance)...or simply stroll around and enjoy the beauty of spring

Toronto Blue Jays - take mom out to the ball game!

Niagara Falls - take a road trip and explore Niagara Falls and the Butterfly Conservatory

Geocaching - check out this post on Active Kids Club about the newest form of treasure hunting, fun for kids and mom

Explore your 'hood - pack a picnic and head to your local park...you would be amazed what you discover in your own neighbourhood

Whatever you do this Mother's Day, for your mother or for yourself, think about heading outdoors and making memories with your family!!