Who to Thank on Mother's Day

1 Your Mother-in-Law

Whether your relationship is idyllic or you have your differences, she plays a significant role in your life. Sharing your appreciation with the woman who raised your partner will mean a lot to her, whether it comes in the form of a card, phone call, or coffee date.

Source: Flickr user Andres Lucero

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2 Your Own Mom

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Need we explain this one!?

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3 Your Best Friend

She consoled you through your worst breakup, stood by your side at your wedding, and gave you a desperately needed break when you were at your wit's end with your colicky newborn. Remind your BFF that she's an awesome woman, friend, and mom.

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4 . . . Make That ALL of Your Favorite Mom Friends

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When I think of all my own girlfriends who have kids, I'm eternally amazed at the many different ways that there are to be a great mom and role model for your family.

Pick up a pack of pretty note cards, and send all of the friends whose approach to motherhood has made an impression on you a handwritten message to tell them so.

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5 Your Co-Workers Who Are Moms

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There's a unique set of challenges that only working moms can relate to — that feeling of there never being enough hours in the day, always feeling like you're being pulled in multiple directions, and always having to sacrifice something, whether it's at the office or at home.

If you work, take a moment this week to pull aside your colleagues who are also moms and let them know what an amazing job they're doing.

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6 . . . and the Stay-at-Home Moms in Your Life

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Just as working moms deserve recognition for all that they do, so too do your SAHM friends. Whether you're one yourself or you have friends or neighbors whose constant dedication to their own kids you find so admirable, let them know that you think they're amazing.

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7 Your Kids' Teachers

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The amazing women who go from raising their own kids to playing a majorly influential role in the lives of our own children every day deserve major kudos (plus, it's Teacher Appreciation Week!).

What better time than the present to write her a quick note of thanks (and perhaps slip in a gift certificate for a mani-pedi, too)?

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8 Your Favorite "Mom Influences"

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If you're lucky enough to have women other than your actual mom — relatives or not — who have played a maternal role in your life, pick up the phone on Sunday and let them know it. Whether it's a favorite aunt, a childhood friend's mom, or a member of your own mom's "inner circle," she'll love the gesture.

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