Collinsville Daily News Mother's Day Gift Guide

Gift GUIDE

About This Magazine

2024 has been an incredible year for the Collinsville Daily News. In our first two years in business, this community news source has been read by over 250,000 people across more than 150 countries. While our top read cities have been Chicago and St. Louis, Collinsville, IL remains the focus of our news content. I launched this company with one focus….to give a voice to the voiceless and share the stories that need to be told.

We opened on Valentine’s Day as the heartbeat of the community. Because of your support and engagement, we will continue to grow and build more local community online news sources that highlight what is happening at a local level. In the next year, you can expect to see the same daily updates with local, regional and world news in English and Spanish. There will also be new products that are introduced throughout the year. We will launch our first fully Spanish publication in the summer. The large support and positive feedback we have received have encouraged the anticipated growth into more print products.

CDN Mother’s Day Gift Guide

P.O. Box 3136 Alton, IL 62002

Advertising Inquiries (618) 541-9823

Publisher: Jacqueline Duty

jackie@collinsvilledailynews.com

We invite you to take a moment and read over the next few pages. Enjoy the content focused on holiday trends and fun games to play. There is a coloring contest for the kids to engage in. Submit your entry for a chance to win a $25 Visa Gift Card. Winners will be announced on June 1, 2024.

Thank you for your continued support!

See why Collinsville Daily News is the Heartbeat of the Community!

Jacqueline Duty, Owner

Knock Knock What I Love about Mom

Fill in the Love Book Fill-in-theBlank Gift Journal, 4.5 x 3.25-inches

Watch the tea leaves and flavorful flowers bloom as they steep, then sip on the delightful result. This gift set comes with six assorted blooms and a small glass teapot. Mom a clear view of the magic happening.

Popular Gifts in 2024

Mother’s Embrace Large Floral Bouquet

Every mother deserves fresh flowers

Because you can never go wrong with jewelry

Delivering Hope

Hoyleton Youth and Family Services is one of the region’s leaders in providing emotional and mental health services for every stage of youth and family development. Hoyleton’s Puentes de Esperanza program, which was established in 2004, is regarded as one of the most trusted resources to the immigrant population living in the southern Illinois region, especially limited English-speaking immigrants.

One of the many ways Puentes de Esperanza makes an impact with the immigrant population is by providing a series of informative workshops held regularly at the Fairmont City Welcome Center or in the Hoyleton Youth and Family Services corporate office in Fairview Heights. These workshops, which are funded by the United for Families grant, cover a wide range of subjects, including finance, banking, childcare, nutrition, and other important resources that are essential for the overall well-being of their clients. These workshops help build the skills and knowledge necessary to develop financial literacy and valuable social skills for remembers of the Latino community.

Last year the Puentes team recognized that a sewing workshop would be beneficial to clients. Everyone loved the idea, but this type of workshop required sewing machines, fabric and other materials that were not covered with

grant. The Puentes team went to work asking friends, family, Hoyleton staff, and community members for assistance and as a result of several generous donations they secured four sewing machines and quite a bit of fabric which allowed them to host their first workshop.

The sewing workshops were a hit from the very beginning and interest continued to grow leading to a shortage of sewing machines and material. Puentes Bilingual Intake Specialist, Patricia Merz, who was part of the sewing workshops from the beginning, was concerned about the limited number of sewing machines available because it meant they could only serve a certain number of clients at a time. Patricia shared this issue with her friend and Hoyleton co-worker Sandy Schmidt because she knew Sandy would understand the issue. Patricia and Sandy had become fast friends because of their shared love of sewing and making quilts. Sandy recognized this shortage as an opportunity to make an impact in the community, so she shared the story with her mother, Margaret Ann Schwaegel, who has also been a quilter for over 25 years.

Together, Sandy and Margaret Ann decided to purchase ten brand new sewing machines as a Christmas gift to Puentes de Esperanza. This generous donation enabled the organization to

continue hosting sewing workshops, allowing eager learners to develop valuable sewing and quilting skills. Sandy and Margaret Ann now attend some of the workshops alongside the Puentes de Esperanza team, sharing their knowledge and love of the craft with members of the Latino community.

The impact of these workshops extends beyond just learning new skills. Several Latino community members, who have acquired sewing skills, are now interested in starting their own business, selling quilts and clothing items to their community. Kristen Shinn, Hoyleton’s Director of Community Support Services, which includes the work of Puentes de Esperanza, shared that this demonstrates how the organization's efforts are empowering individuals and contributing to the economic development of the community.

Puentes de Esperanza's commitment to serving the Latino community is exemplified through their informative workshops that provide essential resources, build skills, and empower individuals to improve their overall well-being. Thanks to the generosity of donors like Sandy and Margaret Ann, the organization is able to continue its work and make a positive impact in the lives of its clients.

Pictured: Puentes staff, Marjorie Montgomery, Patricia Merz, donors Margaret Ann Schwaegel and Sandy Schmidt

Classic Creamy Chocolate Mousse

This vintage dessert is an elegant, delicious way to say "I love you.” This light creamy, oh-so-chocolatey dessert is a tasty and easy way to let your loved one know that you think they're just as classic. If you want to take it up a notch, don't skip the orange liqueur (such as Dry Curacao). It won't make the dessert boozy, but it'll add a ton of grown-up flavor.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1 Place chocolate in a heat-safe bowl. Heat 1 1/4 cups heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium low heat until just steaming. Pour over chocolate; let sit for 5 minutes, then whisk until smooth. Cool slightly.

Step 2 Combine egg yolks and sugar in a bowl. Whisk with an electric mixer on high speed until thickened, pale yellow, and creamy, 3 to 5 minutes. Stir in vanilla, salt, and liqueur, if desired. Add one-third of egg mixture to chocolate mixture and stir until combined. Add remaining egg mixture and stir until smooth.

Step 3 Whisk remaining 1 1/4 cups heavy cream with an electric mixer on high speed until stiff peaks form, 3 to 5 minutes. Fold whipped cream into chocolate mixture. Spoon into cups or ramekins; refrigerate at least 6 hours or overnight. Serve topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings.

Source: https://www.countryliving.com/food-drinks/a46571385/chocolate-mousse-recipe/

Ingredients

•8 oz. high quality dark chocolate, finely chopped

•2 1/2 c. heavy cream, divided

•3 large egg yolks

•1/3 c. granulated sugar

•1 tsp. pure vanilla extract

•1/4 tsp. kosher salt

•1 tbsp. orange liqueur (optional)

•Whipped cream and chocolate shavings, for garnish

The Art of Shopping for the Impossible Gift Recipient

All moms deserve a day of feeling special. We all want to get her the perfect gift, but some people are easier to shop for than others. Choosing the perfect gift can feel like a high-stakes puzzle, especially when the recipient seems to have everything or has very particular tastes. The challenge of finding something unique and meaningful can be both exciting and daunting. However, fear not!

With a thoughtful approach and a dash of creativity, you can navigate this gift-giving conundrum with finesse.

Understand Their Interests and Passions

Start by delving into the recipient's interests and passions. Consider their hobbies, favorite pastimes, or any recent conversations that hinted at something they're excited about. Understanding their interests will guide you towards gift ideas that align with their passions.

Quality Over Quantity

Instead of opting for numerous small items, focus on finding one high-quality, meaningful gift. It could be an item of excellent craftsmanship or something that resonates deeply with their interests.

Explore Unique and Uncommon Gifts

Unconventional gifts can make a lasting impact. Look for unique items that cater to their specific interests. This might involve searching through specialty stores, artisanal markets, or online platforms that curate one-of-a-kind products.

Remember, the essence of gift-giving lies in the thought behind it. Even if the recipient is hard to buy for, the effort and consideration you put into selecting the gift will be cherished. Embrace the challenge with enthusiasm, and you might just surprise yourself with the perfect gift idea!

Giving Mom the Gift of Rest

Mother’s Day is a special occasion to honor and celebrate the women who have shaped our lives. While it's often marked by gifts and gestures of appreciation, one of the most meaningful ways to show love on this day is by giving Mom the gift of rest. Here are some thoughtful ways to help Mom unwind and relax on her special day:

1.Breakfast in Bed: Start her day off right by surprising her with a delicious breakfast served in bed with hot coffee. Let her enjoy a leisurely meal without having to lift a finger.

2.Spa Day at Home: Create a spa-like experience at home by setting up a relaxing bath with candles, essential oils, and soothing music. Offer to give her a massage or a facial treatment to help her unwind.

3.Time Alone: Sometimes, the best gift you can give a busy mom is some uninterrupted time alone. Encourage her to spend the day doing whatever brings her joy, whether it's reading a book, going for a walk, or simply taking a nap.

4.Take Over Her Chores: Give Mom a break from her daily chores by taking over tasks such as cooking, cleaning, and laundry for the day. Let her enjoy a day off from the usual responsibilities.

5.Gift of Relaxation: Consider giving Mom a gift certificate for a massage, spa treatment, or a day at a local relaxation retreat. It's a thoughtful way to show her that you value her well-being and want her to take time for herself.

6. Family Time: While it's important for Mom to have time alone, she may also appreciate spending quality time with her family. Plan a special outing or activity that she enjoys, such as a picnic in the park or a movie night at home.

7. Express Your Appreciation: Above all, take the time to express your love and appreciation for everything Mom does. A heartfelt card or letter can mean more than any material gift.

This Mother's Day, let's make an effort to give Mom the gift of rest and relaxation. By showing her that her well-being is important, we can truly honor and celebrate the incredible women in our lives.

Find the fresh brewed Minas Espresso at Old Herald Brewery & Distillery, Lou Belle & Bing and private labeled brew at McDill’s in Collinsville.

Take Time For Self Care Take Time For Self Care

Every Mom deserves time to step away from the chaos of daily tasks and focus on self care. Even 10 – 20 minutes a day can make a difference and help the mood for the rest of the day. I find it important to have not only time but also physical space for my self-care. That may be the carpet in my living room, the floor beside my bed, my study, or even my bedroom closet! Taking a few minutes for yourself can make you feel more human and ready to tackle what the day brings. Here are a few ideas when you are short on time.

•Go for a solo walk : This can be a walk around the neighborhood or even just to check the mail. Sometimes, I listen to a short podcast or call a friend when I’m walking. Live by a nature trail, the ocean, or a lake? Walking (or sitting) for just 20 minutes in nature can lower your stress hormones.

Pamper Yourself : Showers can be one of the best places to pamper yourself. Lately, I’ve been putting on a turmeric face scrub in the shower. The smell and the feeling of softness it gives my skin really elevates the experience. I also use a lovely coconut butter and cocoa butter body wash that smells divine and makes my shower time (albeit five minutes) very special. With some Epsom salts and a lighted candle, you can turn a bath into a self-care experience. Try some soothing music to make bathtime even more relaxing.

Create a morning routine : Waking up in “mom mode” can make the start of your day hectic and leave you frazzled. Try waking up 20 minutes before your kids instead. That time off in the morning can make all the difference to your day. I’ve used a planner in the past and found it helpful to plan my day and week. It helped me keep track of my goals and even meal planning.

•Create a bedtime routine : A bedtime routine isn’t just for kids. Just as it’s important to have a few moments of peace in the morning, carving out some time in the evening or before bed can get you ready for restful sleep. Try writing down what you’re grateful for that day before you sleep. Often, I go over my favorite moments of the day and think about fun and exciting things coming up the next day or later that week. Reflecting on my day helps to settle my mind.

•Put your feet up : Yes, I said it put your feet up, mama. When your child is busy, take advantage of it. (And don’t be afraid to use a little technology to keep her engaged.) When a neighbor told me her daughter had soccer practice for over an hour, I told her that was the time for her to put her feet up.

•Engage in a hobby : I’ve transformed from a bookworm to an artist over the past 10 years. I’m heavily into crafts. This is where I get creative, whether that’s painting, drawing, embroidery, or writing for websites. I find that spending even 20 minutes a day on these creative activities can really improve my mood, so I do that daily even on weekends. Your hobby could be woodworking, bird-watching, doodling, making soap, knitting, or illustrating comic books. Whatever your childhood passion was, or your adult interests are, take the time to indulge in your creative side; it’s very rewarding.

A Message For My Mother

How can I find the words

To let you know how much I care?

To thank-you, Mom for all you’ve done, For always being there.

You’ve been “friend” as well as “Mother,” Walking with me all through life, Through the joy and through the laughter, Through the heartache and the strife.

You’re the best I could have hoped for, And with gratitude I see… The sweet lifetime of devotion, You invested here in me.

I am proud that you’re my mother… I’ve been deeply blessed...it’s true, And I can’t imagine anyone, Could be more loved than you!

Copyright 1993 Genie Graveline

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Fun Events To Treat Mom As a Gift

Nas car Cup Series and Confluence Music Festival

Dates: June 1 & 2

Times: 7a.m.–8 p.m.

Cost: Starts at $20

Don't miss a moment of the action with access to both days of heart-racing competitions and live entertainment. Perfect for those who want the fullthrottle experience, this ticket includes allweekend access to the Confluence Music Festival, the NASCAR Enjoy Illinois 300, and the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series.

World WideTechnologyRaceway, 1905 Collinsville, Madison, Illinois.

Missouri Botanical IL Appreciation Week

Dates: June 3 – June 7

Times: 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

Cost: Pricing varies Illinois residents with a valid ID receive $8 daytime admission from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. the week of June 3–7, 2024. Visitors can also enjoy a 20% discount on new or renewed memberships purchased onsite during a Garden visit this week. 4344Shaw.,St.Louis,MO

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Cinco De Mayo Dinner Cruise

Dates: May 4

Times: 5–7:30 p.m.

Cost: $31 / person

Cheers to Margaritas. No time for a siesta. It’s time to Fiesta aboard the Hakuna Matata! The Hakuna Matata is a 49-passenger tour boat that can take you on a wonderful adventure on the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers. It is an all-weather, 53’ foot, 49passenger Coast Guard licensed tour boat Grafton Harbor, Grafton, IL

Home

Made Coupons

Dates: All Year

Times: 24/7

Cost: Your time

Help Mom out. Give her a book of coupons that you create for her to cash in throughout the year. Allow her to take a break as you take on daily tasks. Do the dishes & the laundry. Provide a foot massage or 20 minutes of promised silence. This will go a long way towards helping mom enjoy the day.

ROTARY EMPOWERS YOU TO MAKE THE WORLD A BETTER PLACE STARTING IN YOUR COMMUNITY..... CLUB #3215

2023 Contributions

• $5,000.00 - Donated to the Collinsville Area Community Foundation (CACF)

• $6,000 - Johnny O Scholarships

• $3,000.00 - Donation for the CMS and DIS Literacy programs

• $450.00 - Sponsor 2 students to attend the Rotary Youth Leadership Academy (RYLA)

• $1,500.00 - Sponsorship of the Homework Help & Hoops (HHH) summer reading program

• $1,000.00 - Donation to the Collinsville Food Pantry

• 3 - Soup Kitchen Meals

• Purchased and installed wheelchair swing at Woodland Park

• Metro East Teen Driver Safety Days

Mother’s Day Trivia Questions

1. During which month is Mother’s Day celebrated in the United States?

2. Mother’s Day always falls on which day of the week?

3. Modern Mother’s Day evolved from which Medieval British celebration?

4. Mother’s Day was revived in the United Kingdom during the Victorian Era to give workers in which profession a day to go home to their mother?

5. What is the traditional flower to give on mother’s day?

6. How many months is the average pregnancy?

7. During pregnancy, an expectant mother grows a whole new organ. What is it called?

8. Which species has the longest pregnancy in the animal kingdom?

9. Whose mamma always said that ‘life is like a box of chocolates’?

10. What is the only developed country to not require employers to give new mothers maternity leave? Answer Key

2) abnegado 3) trabajador

cena 16) bondadoso

alegre 18) simpatico

domingo

amor 7) gratitud 8) desayuno 9) regalo

12) celebracion 13) fiesta 14) madre 15) recuerdos