Since Mothers' Day is a special day when we honor our mothers, the past couple years I've decided to make Mothers' Day more practical and request something of my children rather than a gift. A week before Mothers' Day I sent them the following email.

"Mothers' Day is next Sunday, and I've been thinking about my request for this year. I'd like you to send me the cheapest Mothers' Day card you can find, and plant a tree in your yard with a large sign that says "In honor of my mother - Mother's Day 2009". Then send me a picture of your tree and sign. Thank you for thinking of me."

Since the "St. Charles Townsends" had already ordered the flowers pictured below, they got a "variance". I'll have to make my request earlier next year.


"We decided that a plain old tree was not nearly good enough for a mom/grandma like you. So, we planted a rose bush that bloomed today!"

John and Grace smile while Kathleen holds their sign below.

Their "cheap" card was an email Mothers' Day greeting.

The Sampsons planted a Jane Magnolia in their yard. Will and Claire made the sign, and Jacob joined in the fun for a picture. They also included a card, but I'm not sure it was "cheap".

The "Roselle Townsends" planted a Star Magnolia. Deven and Mason pose with their tree and sign, which was artistically designed by Mason.

Colby planted a Cotinus Grace which is a hybrid between the Asian smoke tree, Cotinus coggygria, and the North American Cotinus obovatus. It will be interesting to see how this one develops.

Melissa, Caelin, and Georgie also got a "variance" since they didn't have a place for a tree. Melissa requested a list of what I remembered about her childhood. She is writing a children's book based on that list.

It will be fun to watch these plants grow. Thank you for making this a very special Mothers' Day.