Hasn't your mother always been there for you? So Mother's Day is the perfect time to make her feel extra special and say thank you for all she's done for you. Typically, Mom gets a card and flowers on this special occasion, which is, without question, a lovely gift. But your mother is one of a kind. Don't you think she's worth more? She deserves a thoughtfully prepared Mother's Day gift basket.

You'll need to purchase a basket that's big enough for all of the goodies that you want to fill it with. Select an attractive basket that your mom can use for other purposes. Once you find the perfect container, you might want to paint and decorate it with her favorite colors. Just make sure it's totally dry before you start loading it up with special presents.

Line the base of the basket with a nice napkin or piece of cloth. Make sure the fabric matches the decorations on your basket. You can also wind some matching ribbon around the basket handle and glue some artificial flowers onto it. This will give the basket a feminine, springtime look and feel.

Fill the basket with some of mom's favorite things. You will need to choose one large item to be the basket's centerpiece. Place this item in the middle of the Mother's Day gift basket and position it so that it is stable and will not move or fall over while in transport. This centerpiece could include flowers, a stuffed animal, a meaningful figurine, or even a picture of the family.

Now that the centerpiece is in position, arrange your other items around it. Some good ideas to include are an aromatherapy candle, her favorite bath and body products, imported chocolates or a favorite gourmet food. They should all be items that your mom really appreciates. You might also want to include a small framed photo of each family member. As a special treat, include a gift certificate for a manicure, pedicure or massage. Arrange your gifts attractively so that your mom can see them all at the same time.

And lastly, cover your Mother's Day gift basket with pretty cellophane wrap or a gift basket bag in a floral pattern, and attach a big, beautiful bow. Don't forget to include a Mother's Day card to express your love and appreciation. Tape the card under the bow on top of the basket.

Your mother will be thrilled when you present her with this remarkable gift basket. And your gift will carry extra meaning when she finds out that you made it yourself. For a mother, those are always the most significant gifts.