Mother’s Day Gifts That Suit Her Love Language

Mother’s Day Gifts That Suit Her LOVE

Language by Susan Neuhalfen

Author Gary Chapman wrote an amazing book that was first published in 1995 called The 5 Love Languages®. That got us thinking: Do you know Mom’s love language? Read through Mr. Chapman’s list below and see which one best describes your mother.

The explanation for each language is listed below, along with a few Mother’s Day gift ideas.

Words of Affirmation:

Verbal compliments expressing your love and appreciation. Mom doesn’t hear thank you enough, so why not put it into words? Take the time to create a card, poem, or picture depicting your sentiment for her selflessness.

Acts of Service:

Any act that eases the burden of responsibility. After all, mom sure does do a lot for us, right?! The kids can all pitch in, and both work on a meal and clean up afterward. Maybe Dad can do the dishes and get the kids ready for bed. That leaves mom to relax and enjoy her day.

Quality Time:

Focused and undivided attention spent together. This is by far the most popular gift because most moms just want to spend time with their families uninterrupted by phones, iPads, or video games. Put together a picnic lunch and take her to a park or on some kind of outing. Go to a restaurant where everyone is comfortable – nothing stuffy or overpriced.

Giving Gifts:

Tangible symbols that reflect your thoughtfulness and effort. Okay, now we’re talking. Show mom how much you love and appreciate her with some beautiful earrings, a necklace, maybe even a Mary Kay gift basket complete with lipstick, lotions for her feet and hands, facial creams and moisturizer. There are a million gift ideas out there that are affordable and show how much you care – even if it’s a pair of super soft and comfortable pajamas for cold nights of lounging.

Physical Touch:

A non-sexual touch that reinforces your presence (hugging, handholding, massage). This could also be in the form of a gift as well, perhaps a well-deserved mani-pedi or facial with a glass of wine, or a relaxing spa retreat? Many of your favorite local businesses are running special Mother’s Day packages as we speak, so be sure and get mom on the list immediately.

Whatever her love language, make sure to ask mom exactly what she wants. Guys and kids often overthink what mom might want every year for Mother’s Day; they should instead stick to the basics and focus on what comes from the heart. Chances are, all she really wants is some family time and to know you love her.

These are just some ways to show her just how much you appreciate what she does for you, unconditionally, every day. Oh, and by the way. If you want to grab a copy of Gary Chapman’s The 5 Love Languages®, it can be found at any Barnes & Noble or as an audio book.

Gourmet To Go At

May’s Eats

by Diane Ciarloni | cover and headshots by Miranda Longoria Photography; food and additional photos by Luis Acevedo

Local business owners Eddie and James Ledesma-Porter faced crushing adversity in 2020 when the COVID-19 pandemic forced them to close the doors at Remington’s – a favorite North Dallas seafood restaurant for more than four decades.

They owned and operated Remington’s for several years and, during that time, they grew accustomed to the hum of ticket printers, the subtle clink of glassware, the aromas of freshly prepared seafood filling the dining room and delighting guests who were like extended family. They knew many other restaurants shared their fate but sharing the heartache did not make it easier to bear. Eddie and James converted Remington’s into memories. Then, they began truly pressing forward on their new restaurant concept, determined to make it a delicious reality in record time for their community of Corinth.

In the fall of 2019, the decision was made to grow their small hospitality company. Their focus was to create and improve the independent restaurant offerings in the Lake Cities area. They knew they did not want to be part of a national chain, and they did not intend to add another franchise option to the area. They engaged their hearts, as well as their heads, and got to work.

The result? May’s Eats Gourmet To Go, owned by Eddie and James. Eddie, who is also a Sommelier, and Executive Chef Brit Milam are both proud alumni of the prestigious Culinary Institute of America. They serve as Vice-Chair and member, respectively, on the college’s alumni board.

“We created the concept of a gourmet eatery, bakery and café, focused on from-scratch foods with high-quality ingredients that can be enjoyed by omnivores and vegans alike,” said Eddie. “We want it to celebrate local sources, feature craft beer, fresh cocktails and sommelier-selected wines — all of which must be hidden gems and cost $25 or less. Most importantly, we want to plug into the community by creating a spot where people can have GREAT, fresh, quality food options for lunch or dinner and then take those meals and beverages home, to the park for a picnic, to the lake, or even to their kids’ ballgames”.

There is a Handhelds section on the menu, with a list of crave-worthy items including a savory New Orleans Muffuletta Panini that boasts in-house made giardiniera, and the Cuban Press with May’s Eats own Ohana pork – slow braised pork shoulder in fresh pineapple and chicken stock marinating with a signature dry rub for more than 24-hours. Also, all paninis are served on local Empire Artisan Bakery bread.

Crisp salads are a welcome delight to the menu, with offerings such as Atlantic Sesame Salmon with CilantroLime Vinaigrette and the Sonoma Salad with fresh green apple, candied spice pecans, and feta crumbles in a light champagne vinaigrette.

There is also a menu of decadent desserts, including Bourbon Banana Pudding, Double Dutch Chocolate Cake with Almond Butter Frosting (you’d never believe it’s vegan), Luxardo Cherry (the original maraschino cherry from Italy), and Key Lime Cream Cake that will make your taste buds soar with every bite.

940.498.2516 | www.mayseats.com 3400 Corinth Pkwy Suite 112, Corinth, TX

In April, May’s launched “Heat and Eat” meals for two and/or for four people. “It’s in the beginning stages,” explained Eddie. “I’m sure it will go through changes as we move forward, but our primary goal is to keep sharing the love and delivering excellent food and beverage offerings that are available only at May’s.”

Even the name of this new kid on the block is fun and meaningful. M-A-Y’s is a combination of Eddie’s grandmother’s names (Mary and Yaya), and their spirit of showing “love through food” permeates the restaurant in everything these guys do.

Having opened in late January of 2021 and located at 3400 Corinth Parkway next to Corinth City Hall, May’s Eats has already established a strong following with consistent five-star ratings on multiple social media platforms. There’s something important to understand about May’s. Yes, many of the ingredients are pretty darn fancy, but that’s not what May’s mouth-watering, chef-crafted food is all about. Instead, it’s about having the BEST ingredients to ensure every bite is delicious.

Read the online reviews. They’re happy and filled with glowing comments about the food as well as the service. They’re enthusiastic and 100 % positive. With so many interesting aspects to May’s, the most intriguing is the contagious atmosphere of fun and excitement that Eddie, James, and Brit have managed to generate.

May’s is doing well, and the future says it will do even better. Swing by Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and on Sundays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., or order online via mayseats.com for delivery or curbside pick-up.

pictured above is Brit Milam, Executive Chef (left) & Eddie Ledesma-Porter, Owner & Sommelier (right) The talent, enthusiasm, and dedication of its three key players seal the deal. Besides, who wouldn’t support an eatery that shows “Love through food” by three guys who truly mean it.