10 Cheap or Free Mother's Day Gifts for 2014

Here are some cheap Mother's Day gift ideas. They're actually mostly free, with the cost being very little to absolutely nothing. These are also things that you can put together at nearly the last minute. They require some thought and a little time to put together. What's neat about these ideas is that, although they cost next to nothing, their effect is priceless, as they are sure to please the special mother in your life.

My mom gets a Mother's Day card every year and always appreciates it. Just letting someone know you're thinking of them can make the day special. Even if you spend a lot on a card, it's only going to be about five bucks or so, but you can go much cheaper than that. I find great cards at 2 for a dollar at stores such as the Dollar Tree and Deals.

If you want to go even cheaper--and more sentimental--than that, just make your own card. Using a piece of paper and your own writing tools makes the cost practically free. Send in the mail with just the cost of a stamp. If it's possible, hand your homemade Mother's Day card to Mom--or other special lady--and see her face light up as she reads it. Guaranteed.

Calling your mother on Mother's Day may be the best thing you can do. I'm bad to let weeks (or longer) go by without picking up the phone. Most mothers love hearing from their kids, so if you're away from "home," regardless of your age, pick up the phone to call your mom. She will appreciate it undoubtedly more than any expensive gift you could give her.

With most people having landlines or cell phones with long distance minutes built in, the phone call most likely won't cost you a cent.

Write your mom a handwritten letter, telling her all the things you love or admire about her. Who gets letters anymore? Receiving one can be a fun thing in itself, but lavishing words of adoration of praise on the recipient makes it all the more special.

If you live with your mother, give it to her or leave it where she will find it. If you have to, mail the letter for just the cost of a stamp, or email it if you really want to spend nothing. In the end, it's the words you say and the time you spend that will matter most.

I have framed lots of photos for gifts. Choose one that will mean a lot to both you and your mom.

Put it in an existing frame or one you pick up for a buck at the dollar store. This gift will keep giving, as it will invoke positive feelings every time she sees it.

If you live at home, doing a chore for Mom will be especially welcomed. Rake or mow the yard. Sweep out the garage or carport. At the very least, clean your room! I know my mom struggled with me on that one!

You can still do some household chores or yard work for Mom if you don't live with her. If she has trouble getting out on her own, pick up something she has been wanting or drive her to go get it.

Do you write poetry? Could you write a poem? A framed poem from the heart would thrill anybody's heart, especially a mother.

Try your hand at some poetry. Next, put the poem, or a simple letter if you're not comfortable with poetry, in a nice, elegant frame for her. I bet she'll love it!

An option to writing your own poem is to write up or type out one of her favorites or a favorite you think she will like. Choose one that reflects your relationship with your mother or something special about your mom. She is sure the appreciate the effort.

Although buying flowers is simple and always makes a nice gift, flowers purchased from a florist can be very expensive. I've bought inexpensive flowers before at Wal-Mart or other grocery stores before--a single rose for a dollar or a spring bouquet for three or four dollars.

You can go even cheaper than that, though--free, even. Look around your yard to see what is blooming, and start picking away. You might see roses and daisies, azaleas and tulips. Tulips may be fading by Mother's Day, but there's bound to be something growing. I enjoy even the wildflowers or little purple and yellow flowers that grow in my yard that many people would call "weeds."

If you can cook, Mom would love for you to cook for her for a change. Sure, it will cost a few bucks, but you don't have to break the budget. Look for a homemade casserole or other recipe, or try these Mother's Day brunch ideas.

Spending the day with the special mother in your life costs nothing and is one of the best gifts you can give. I have great memories of spending all day at home with my mom putting puzzles together or talking and drinking hot tea. If you want to get out, go window-shopping at the mall, or go for a drive in the country. All it will cost is a little gas money--unless you decide to shop 'til you drop!

If your mom has passed away, you can still spend time visiting her gravesite and remembering the special moments you had together

A very honorable gift is to volunteer your time in honor or Mother's Day, whether your mom is still here or has passed on.

Another option is to donate to a charity in your Mom's name (yes, this one isn't free) and give Mom a card telling her about it.

Whatever you decide upon, doing something your mother would appreciate and be proud of is a special gift.