Mother’s Day is one of those holidays that cause me to panic. How best can I show my appreciation to the woman that pushed this big lug into the world? Sure, Mom says she’ll love you just the same regardless of what you buy her. But you know she’s secretly regretting having agonized over your birth when you present her with such “thoughtful” gifts as a six pack of tube socks or rainbow suspenders. Thank goodness that Montrose makes it so easy for you and me to avoid the calamity of Mother’s Day gifting!
Instead of buying your mother a pair of dishwashing gloves, why not buy her something that pays tribute to her loveliness and beauty – like a unique work of art? Paintings, sculptures, photography, crafts and other unique artworks can be had at this Saturday’s Artwalk and Sale on May 8. Come see artists demonstrating their craft to the public on the 2300 and 2400 blocks of Honolulu Avenue from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. We’ll also have acoustic musicians providing a splendid sonic tapestry for artistic creativity. The best part is that Mother’s Day gift ideas abound here. Bring mother home a one-of-a-kind creation from an up-an-coming Cezanne, Miro, or Rodin. This Artwalk promises to be a great event for the family and a great way to find dear mother that perfect gift. Be sure not to miss the Artwalk!
Of course, as much as a fine painting or sculpture will make your mom happy, she still deserves more. After all, she spent the best years of her life toiling away for your benefit. So give her the gift of relaxation. At Uptown Face & Body (2418 Honolulu Ave.) she can sit back, relax and be pampered for once. Through May 31, you can get mom a special “spa and lunch package.” An hour massage, foot reflexology, classic European facial, hand paraffin, and a light lunch with beverage – all for only $150. Call Uptown Face & Body at (818) 248-8829 and tell them the MVCC sent you.
Great: you’ve found mom a great gift and pampered her just like she deserves. But you’re not done yet. This is your mother, guy! No need to skimp and save here. Go all out and give the woman a rest from the kitchen on her special day. Take her over to Frank’s Famous Kitchen (3515 N. Verdugo Road) for their annual Mother’s Day Brunch. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. you and mother can feast on Frank’s delicious vittles. Home cooked meals without all that home cooked work! Call Frank’s at (818) 249-6100 to make your reservation today.
Be it great food, fun events, or unique shopping trips, make Montrose your destination. Follow the Montrose-Verdugo City Chamber of Commerce via our Facebook or our website at www.montrosechamber.org.  Or read about our community in detail at our new blog: www.destinationmontrose.blogspot.com. Our offices are open Mondays through Thursdays from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Call us at (818) 249-7171 or email me at tayala@montrosechamber.org. For all your shopping needs and more make your destination Montrose!

Ted Ayala is the executive director of the Montrose-Verdugo City Chamber of Commerce.