Mother's Day is a time for commemoration and celebration on May 11

Julie Severn

5/14/2003 12:00:00 AM

"America's mothers hold a special place in our hearts, providing the lessons and care that have enabled generations of children to embrace the opportunities of this great land. They embody the compassion, devotion, and energy that have always defined our national character, and their daily efforts anchor our country's commitment to the fundamental values of respect and tolerance. Mothers impart both the strength that enables us to face our challenges and the love that comforts and sustains us."

-President Bill Clinton

May 11 crowns the Hallmark holiday honoring the one person who's always had an open heart and mind providing unconditional love and understanding.

Although this special woman should be honored year round, Mother's Day is the one time to reflect on all that's been gained from her sacrifice and inspirational words of encouragement.

The opportunity to celebrate motherhood-whether biological, adoptive, step or foster-could prove to be a challenge.

It may seem next to impossible to adequately show the amount of gratitude and respect for the woman who has given so much.

Sure they say, "Don't worry about it. I don't want anything."

But this is also the same person, who at one point or another, said, "I brought you into this world, I can take you out of it."

And so the search for a perfect gift begins.

Today, women are homemakers, as well as respected doctors, lawyers, police officers and teachers.

One of the best ways to honor them is to give them a day off.

Every woman is different, but here are some ideas to let her know how much she is loved.

Take time to tickle her senses. Many women sacrifice personal time for their children, job responsibilities and household duties.

Provide food preparations and cleanup for the day. Whether it's breakfast in bed, a cookout, picnic, or dining at her favorite restaurant, she'll appreciate the effort and opportunity to spend quality time with the family.

The Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort offers everything from the ultimate in fine dining at the Water Lily Restaurant or the Siniikaung Steak and Chop House, including a full bar and lounge area with an extensive hand-selected list of fine wines, single malt Scotch, single batch bourbons and specialty tequilas.

Choose from a variety of premium Black Angus beef selections including, a New York strip, porterhouse, filet of beef, rib eye, prime rib of beef, char-grilled meatloaf, the Siniikaung signature filet of beef, or prime rib with broiled prawns. Barbecued pork, roasted chicken, Alaskan king crab legs, Atlantic salmon, jumbo shrimp and fettuccine are also available.

A spectacular seafood extravaganza is served on Monday evenings at the Firefly Buffet.

Teasing the taste buds doesn't have to end with a meal. Chocolates or other sweets can serve as a touching gift from the children or as a prelude to a romantic evening with dad. Feed her chocolate-covered strawberries, fresh blueberries or grapes.

Flowers are a nice touch and provide an aromatic centerpiece. This doesn't necessarily mean spending a lot of money on a large bouquet. Sometimes simplicity says more, especially if the arrangement is handpicked or of her favorite selection.

Surprise her with an evening of cuddling and a movie. Depending on how often she goes out, determine if a night at the theatre or getting cozy on the couch would better suit her needs.

Entertain mom with tickets to one of the Soaring Eagle Casino's top comedy, music or sports entertainment events. With 4,700 slots, several table games and the highest stakes bingo in the state, the casino has something for everyone. For more details, visit www.soaringeagle.com.

Create a unique experience with a stay at the AAA Four Diamond award winning Soaring Eagle Resort. A variety of accommodations are available including parlor rooms or one-bedroom suites.

Snuggle by the fireplace, share a toast at the wet bar, or relax in a roomy, swirling whirlpool. Additional information can be obtained at (877) 2EAGLE2.

Pamper her. A variety of massage oils, lotions, bath products and candles offer stress relief or energizing qualities.

Nature is often used as a path to relaxation and renewal of the spirit at the Soaring Eagle Resort Spa. Healing treatments to balance the mind, body and spirit are available through thalassotherapy, hydrotherapy, mineral and aromatherapy.

Enjoy earth's finest ingredients through massage, body treatments, facials and salon services with mom or purchase her a gift certificate to go on her own. Reservations can be made at (989) 775-5403.

Decorate mom with jewelry. Meaningful keepsake items like a mother's ring or necklace containing the birthstones of children and grandchildren are sure to be a memorable gift.

A variety of authentic Native jewelry, as well as sculptures, paintings, baskets, pottery and beadwork are available at the Naanooshke Gallery and The Little Store Gift Shop in the Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort. The Little Canoe Gift Shop, located in the Slot Palace across the street, also provides unique gift ideas.

Remember the past and create new memories with the old. Restore an antique photograph, put together a special photo album, create a digital or video photo album, enlarge an old photo or get a new one taken.

After high school it's easy to forget about updated photos. Schedule a family portrait or surprise mom by capturing a group photo of the children or grandchildren.

The Saginaw Chippewa Academy is hosting a vintage photo fundraiser in the Tribal Library on May 8, 9 and 10. Create a fun picture in costume or personalize it with regalia.

Any craft or gift given from the heart is priceless. Crayon drawings, noodle jewelry boxes or coupons redeemable for chores are sure to warm any mothers' heart. Romantic coupons from dad are a fun idea too.

Mother's Day is a time of commemoration and celebration for mom, so be sure to plan ahead. May 11 only comes once a year, but the everlasting love of a mother should be cherished everyday.