Mother’s Day falls during the most beautiful time of spring, when it’s warm enough to be outside (but not too terribly hot yet). Why not skip the gift this year and instead spend some quality time outdoors? Moms crave time spent with family, unplugged from the routine—and most importantly, a break from being the family organizer. Any one of these ideas will help you show mom how much you appreciate her.
1. Go for a hike
Enjoy some quality time with your mom on a hike up the trail to a scenic view. As a bonus, you’ll both get a workout in for the day! If you’re within driving distance of Kerrville, TLC is hosting an Open Preserve Day at our Los Rincones Preserve on Saturday, May 12, from 8am – 4pm. Come and enjoy a leisurely day exploring this beautiful Hill Country preserve that is not normally open to the public. Older kids and adults may enjoy our guided Golden-cheeked warbler hike at 9am or a native plants hike at 10am.
2. Have a family picnic
Sunny days, blue skies, and a gentle breeze make for perfect picnic weather – there is nothing like a hike in the country and an outdoor meal of your favorite picnic foods. The menu doesn’t have to be fussy. The trick is to have everyone help, so Mom doesn’t feel like this is another day of her putting everything together, feeding the troops, and cleaning up!
May I suggest the following menu:
- Chips & Spring Salsa
- Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad (or Green Goddess Hummus Sandwiches as a vegetarian option)
- Sides like fresh fruits and veggies, Couscous Salad, or Texas Style New Potatoes
- Chocolate Filled Strawberries or Creamy Grape Salad for dessert
3. Get on the water
Spoil your mom with a fun Mother’s Day outing on the water! Whether a kayak, canoe, or stand up paddle board is your mom’s style, a relaxing day on the lake or river can be a special way to show Mom you care. Our friend at Whit’s Wilderness has put together a great list of Where to Kayak In Austin (And What to Eat Afterwards), and there are plenty of other options across the state.
4. Go for a bike ride
If Mom doesn’t have a lot of time for bike rides, treat her by taking her out for a fun bike ride to a nearby park or just around your city. If you live near Dallas, TLC’s Oak Cliff Nature Preserve is a 121-acre preserve with over 8 miles of hike and bike trails. Rated by the Dallas Observer’s Best of Dallas as one of the Best Hiking Trails, OCNP is also a great place for hiking and picnicking.
5. Sleep under the stars
Gather the tents and head to one of Texas’ more than 70 state parks for the weekend. If your mom truly loves the outdoors, she’ll cherish a weekend getaway filled with scenic views and quality time spent with her loved ones. The fresh air and nature views can provide a change of pace and relaxation, perfect for Mother’s Day. Several state parks have special programming for Mother’s Day, in addition to regularly scheduled hikes, walking tours, and stargazing parties.
Don’t stress about getting all the details perfect. For most moms, the thought truly does count. A little time in the sunshine with her loved ones may be just the thing Mom needs to fill her heart right up to the top. A few moments to sit still and reflect on being a mom and the joy her family brings to life (no matter how hectic or full of to-dos) might be just the perfect gift.
Looking for an add-on gift in addition to a Mother’s Day outside with the family? I recommend flowers.
Whether they are potted plants or a flower arrangement, flowers are a beautiful way to show your love for Mom. Austin-based Freytag’s Florist will make a 5% donation to TLC at no cost to the customer. Mention Texas Land Conservancy when you make your order over the phone. For online purchases, simply select the “Austin Community Blooms” pull down menu on the order form and choose Texas Land Conservancy to receive your contribution.