Here's how to celebrate a physically distant Mother's Day

Mother's Day is going to look a little different this year.

The COVID-19 pandemic may be keeping families physically distant, but that doesn't mean you can't show someone you care.

Here are some ideas for ways to make the day special.

"For those that are families at home it is OK, of course, to celebrate together with your close and immediate family," said Dr. Elizabeth Richardson, Hamilton's medical officer of health during a town hall event Wednesday. 

"[There are] lots of good ways to think about celebrating in terms of getting outside, getting some fresh air, being physically active together."

A phone call or video chat is another good way to stay connected, added Richardson, who suggested setting up a virtual family visit.

"Get back to some of those basics. Things like sending a card in the mail, it's a very nice surprise when you get a hand-written card," said the doctor.

And, of course, there's always the classic.

"Think about sending flowers. Most moms do like to receive flowers."

Norm Geddes, the owner of Russell's Flower Shop on Main Street East, said it's been a very different busy season for his staff this year.

Customers aren't able to come inside, so that section of the store has been transformed into a workspace where employees can keep their distance.

The risk of COVID-19 has also impacted supply and staffing, Geddes noted.

"We have staff that are off because they have family members who have compromised health. We have less people to work with at our busiest time of the year."

'A good time to be creative'

Nothing beats an in-person visit if you live in the same city and can stop by safely, said Geddes. 

But if all else fails, flowers are a surefire way to celebrate a special day.

"Send them a bouquet, let them know how much they're loved and appreciated and that we'll all get over this and be together as families soon."

Stopping by to say hi to those in a retirement or long-term care home, even if it's through the window, can also mean a lot, according to Richardson.

"It's absolutely OK to see people closer together if there is that physical barrier in the way," she said.

"It's a good time to be creative, a good time to think about different ways we can celebrate moms and look forward to getting together once all the restrictions are dropped."