Created: 05/06/2009 10:06 AM KSTP.com | Print Story By: Art Barron

BARRON: Mother's Day, Birthdays Galore, Prom Night, and Graduation. Geeze!!!!

I am a giving person, I really am. I love sending my Mom something special for Mother's day, and doing something grand for a significant other. But, do you ever have soooooo many things happening at once?

My Daughter has prom coming up, that meant a dress, and make-up and other stuff she needs. I have a Son who is celebrating his 21st birthday. and friends who are having birthdays as well. Cap that off with my Daughter's graduation coming up.

These are events, each and every one significant and special. So I want to make them special. Yes it can be a bit overwhelming, Thank goodness, there are no weddings to go to in the next month or two. Now I'm wondering what to get my Mom, my significant other, my Son, a couple of friends having birthdays, and the big event...GRADUATION.

I was thinking dinner for two for my Mom and her husband. I find a nice restaurant and pre-pay a set dollar amount. I did that before and she loved it for Mother's day. For my significant other... I was thinking a day at the spa...well maybe an hour or two : )

My Son, hmmm I'm still thinking... but he needs a new computer tower, but he always needs clothes. The birthday gifts for friends could include gift cards, or fine wine, maybe a novelty item of some sort. I already paid for my Daughter's dress for prom night. Graduation requires some creativity. That's still a month away. All of this happening at once sort of leaves me dizzy. So, I can't stress over what to get. It comes down to making an afternoon of it. I don't want this to be a chore, because giving or making something special for others is rewarding in itself. When it's all said and done, it is so cool to see family members or friends smile and know that a special bond exists.