• Express your gratitude to your mom in writing.writing image by Horticulture from Fotolia.com
  
  Choosing the perfect birthday gift for your mom can be a daunting task. You want to give her something that expresses how much you love her while using creativity and staying within budget. A handmade gift allows you to use resources you already have to give your mom a unique birthday gift that she won't soon forget.
  
  

Scrapbook

• Collect old photographs and put together a scrapbook to honor your mother on her birthday. A scrapbook is a great family project, and kids of all ages can contribute to the gift. Choose a birthday theme for your scrapbook to make it extra special. If your mom is turning 47, then the scrapbook can feature "47 Reasons Why We Love Mom." On each page, have kids list one reason why they love their mother, and find family photos that match that reason. For example, if the first page of the scrapbook states, "She's a great cook," then include a picture of the family gathered at a holiday dinner. This handmade gift will be a cherished keepsake for years to come.
  
  

Framed Art

• Moms love to display their kids' artwork on the refrigerator. A framed piece of her child's artwork is a durable gift that a mom can display proudly at work or at home. Have children paint or draw pictures for their mom's birthday. Give them pieces of cardstock or construction paper cut into sizes that you can frame, such as 5" x 7" or 8" x 10". Let their imaginations run wild---they can draw family scenes or pictures of mom or write birthday greetings. Frame the pictures in wooden or sterling silver frames. If you have more than one picture, choose a collage frame, which will add a pop of color to any room.
  
  

The Written Word

• If writing is your forte, compose a poem or letter that tells your mother how much she means to you. Write the note on a piece of nice stationery, or type it using a script font and print it on durable paper. If you're artistic, you can incorporate some artwork into the letter, or you can adorn the sheet of paper with embellishments like sequins or glitter. For an added touch, frame the letter so your mother can display it as a daily reminder of your love.
  
  

Basket of Treats

• Start your mom's birthday off right with a breakfast basket full of delectable goodies. Martha Stewart recommends lining a wire basket with tea towels and including a bevy of breakfast treats inside it. Homemade muffins and pastries or scones along with coffee and freshly squeezed orange juice will indulge your mom's sweet tooth on her special day.