LilSugar

Ways to Celebrate Mother's Day on a Budget

babysugar — Thu, 07 May 2009 13:00:00 -0700

Mother's Day is Sunday! While children and fathers are scrambling to paint a piece of pottery and buy the right card before the day arrives, drop them one of these economical hints! Instead of treating you to a swanky spa day, tell them the lady of the house would appreciate a festivity that doesn't involve breaking the bank. Or pamper your own mother with one of these activities:

Picked flowers only last so long. Forgo a trip to the florist and take mom to the botanical gardens where the entire family can enjoy the brilliant blossoms.
Rather than taking mom out to the movies, rent her favorite classic flick and stock up on her candy cravings. When the kids are sent to bed, she can relax in pure peace and pleasure.
Who needs a five-star hotel when camping is an option? Pack up the tent, campfire tools and a satchel for a night in the wilderness. Spoil her with s'mores and hot chocolate while soaking up all that nature has to offer.

To see other ways to celebrate mum, read more.

If it ain't broke don't fix it. Mama always appreciates being served breakfast in bed by her loved ones.
Ditch the pricey country club brunch and pack a picnic with the kids for a jaunt to the local park.
Kids love to paint! Soak mommy's toes and hands in warm bubbles and allow the rascals to color her toes and fingers. It won't be perfection, but it will be adoration.
Check the local outdoor venues to see if there is a free symphony or opera in the park.
Take her out to the ballgame! Sporty mamas will love a family day with her boys of Spring.

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Maybe We Should We All Move to France?

babysugar — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 07:00:56 -0700

If you want to spark a debate, just gab about America's health and child care systems. While many countries offer new mothers a year of maternity leave, most American women get three months maximum. And in regard to financial benefits, there are few. The child tax credit offers parents a small relief, but for most, it is negligible. In France, however, it's a different story.

Even two of the world's most famous and wealthy movie stars, Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt, are eligible for relief from the French government. While I can only assume they would reject it, People reports:

They are technically eligible for a "nanny payment" of $975.84 a month, not to mention an "orphan allowance" of $508.97 for each of their three adopted children. The grand total, $2,592.81, would be payable by check each month.

The total of their child care assistance is high due to the number of children they have, but I am still impressed that people of their stature would qualify for such aid. In addition to noshing on baguettes, wine, and cheese, France sounds like such a nice place to raise a family.
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Who Foots the Bill For Babe?

LilSugar — Fri, 02 May 2008 11:00:21 -0700

Families come in all shapes and sizes - from married couples to single parents to blended families and beyond.

And, this leads to all sorts of inventive financial arrangements.

Whether it's government-ordered child support or a specific verbal agreement, money can create chaos between all those involved especially when there are dependents.

So when it comes to your babe's expenses, who whips out their wallet?
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Mommy Dearest: Birthday Parties

babysugar — Tue, 26 May 2009 13:00:00 -0700

Mommy Dearest,

My son's fourth birthday is coming up in six weeks, and I would like to have a small get-together for him here at our house with just a few of his closest friends. Another boy from his preschool class shares the same birthday and his mom has mentioned throwing a joint party for the boys. Unfortunately, her idea includes a petting zoo, inviting the entire class, a buffet, and swag bags for party favors. How can I decline the offer to cohost a party politely so I won't hurt her feelings or damage the friendship between us and our sons?

- Party Pooper

To see the response from Mommy Dearest, read more.

Dear Party Pooper,

Cohosting a party can be stressful no matter what the circumstances are, but when it involves someone with completely opposite ideas, step out of the equation and save your mental and financial states. Tell the other mother that you are thankful for the opportunity, but already made other plans for a low-key celebration. To lighten the blow, you may offer to help her set up for her son's party or bring ice cream for the fete. And, of course, I would invite her son to your small shindig and acknowledge his birthday by giving him a special cupcake or party favor.

- Mommy Dearest

Submit a question for this feature at the Mommy Dearest Group on TeamSugar.
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