Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms reading this today. As a son, I am especially thankful for my mother who passed away from breast cancer 17 years ago. Mom had the special gift of laughing at life and the challenges it presents. She had a cute, sly, chuckle, and her head tilted backwards as she laughed. Her smile grew and her eyes sparkled. No matter my mood, Mom’s constant laughter always made me smile. I miss her very much.
As a father, I am just as thankful for my wife Donna and her mothering skills and abilities. Being a mom is no easy task and I truly appreciate her hard work, dedication and love for our family
I hope you are enjoying the warmer weather as much as I am. We have had our fair share of March and early April rain and, in my opinion, the pollen has been less drastic this spring compared to last year when a stiff breeze would blow a yellow swath of pollen across the roadways.
As a proud father, I’d like to congratulate my youngest son Noah on surviving his “knob” year at the Citadel, my daughter Jenna on her acceptance into the University of South Carolina’s Nurse Practitioners’ Program, Noah’s 19th birthday, my father’s 83rd birthday and his 29th anniversary to his awesome wife Janet.
Thanks for reading Irmo-Chapin Life. We couldn’t produce it without the support of our sponsors whose advertisements help support community outreach efforts.
Thanks again for reading and Happy Mother’s Day to all!
Todd Shevchik
faithMATTERS
KEITH
KNEESHAW
Lead Pastor
Each spring, our community gathers to celebrate a moment that marks both completion and new beginnings. Graduation is a season of transition where one chapter closes and another opens. Graduates stand at the intersection of the past and the future, filled with excitement yet carrying a natural anxiety about what lies ahead. Questions surface: What will college be like? What career will I choose? Where will life lead?
Into moments like these, the words that God spoke to Joshua still resonate: “Be strong and courageous.” In Joshua 1, that command is repeated, reminding us that courage is not instinctive and must be grounded in something deeper.
True confidence does not come from achievements or ability. It comes from understanding its source. Scripture points us to the presence of God, who promises to walk with His people: “For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” That assurance steadies us as we step into the unknown.
God is not surprised by what lies ahead. He is not anxious about the future. He not only knows what will happen, but “he upholds the universe by the word of his power” (Hebrews 1:3). This truth provides a foundation that carries us through uncertainty.
Yet this promise is not a vague encouragement. It is rooted in God’s covenant faithfulness, fulfilled in Christ (2 Corinthians 1:20). Through faith in Him, these promises become personal. As Sally Lloyd-Jones beautifully described, God’s “Never-Stopping, Never Giving Up, Unbreaking, Always and Forever Love” is extended to those who trust in him.
It is this love that transforms uncertainty into anticipation. Graduation becomes an invitation to follow God into what’s next, trusting that he guides, provides, and remains faithful in every step.
As we honor this year’s graduates, may this season inspire all of us to embrace change with courage, gratitude, and trust in the God who goes before us. “Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9). n
Thomas & Jayne Falk Franchise Owners
CALENDAR OFevents
MAY-JUNE
Thursday, May 7– Saturday, May 9
South Carolina Poultry Festival
101 Main St. | Leesville
This free 3-day family event has something for everyone. Enjoy a parade, live music and entertainment, cooking contests, tractor and car shows, and food and craft vendors. For the schedule of events visit scpoultryfestival.com.
Friday, May 15 and Saturday, May 16
The Festival at Friars’ Gate
Prisma Amphitheater at Moore Park | 7473 Church St. | Irmo | 10 am
Step into a world of jesters, jousts, merchants, and minstrels. From whimsical games to medieval feasts, it will be fun for the whole family. Admission is free, but registration is required. Visit friarsgatefestival.com for more information.
Wednesday, May 20
Tech Talk: Understanding Your Device
Chapin Branch Library | 129 NW Columbia Ave. | Chapin | 11 am
Questions about phones, tablets, or computers? Join a group discussion focused on learning device functions and addressing technology issues (ages 18+). For more information visit lexcolibrary.com.
Thursday, May 28 – Saturday, May 30
The Dam Boat Run
Lake Murray Marina | 1602 Marina Rd. | Irmo
Proceeds from this 4th annual boat run will aid The Big Red Barn Retreat, the Richland County Sheriff’s Department, and Camp Discovery. For registration and sponsorship visit lakemurraypowerboatrun.com.
Saturday, June 13
Joshua Redman, Saxophone Extraordinaire
Harbison Theatre | 7300 College St. | Irmo | 7:30 pm
The Blue Note recording artist joins the SC Jazz Masterworks Ensemble for their season finale. For more information visit harbisontheatre.org.
Friday, June 26
Corks and Kayaks
Saluda Shoals Park | 5605 Bush River Rd. | Columbia | 6 pm
Enjoy a guided paddle down the Lower Saluda River, surrounded by beautiful views and wildlife. After an hour on the water, you’ll be shuttled to the Redbud Shelter for a curated wine tasting. (ages 21+). To register visit icrc.net. n
Now Accepting Nominations
Nominate your Favorite Local Businesses online at irmochapinlife.com or scan the QR code.
The top three nominees in each category will be listed on the 2027 Best of Irmo-Chapin Life ballot in Irmo-Chapin Life Magazine. The nomination deadline is May 22nd. who will be the best of ‘27?
IRMO-CHAPINleader
by Abigail Harris
Lisa Kejr
CEO LIGHTHOUSE FOR LIFE
Lighthouse for Life is dedicated to educating and serving the community in the fight against human trafficking through awareness, support, and advocacy. The philosophy behind Lighthouse for Life is founded on a simple yet profound belief: light overcomes darkness, and hope can be restored. The organization works to eradicate human trafficking by educating the community and empowering survivors. Today, the organization is led by Chief Executive Officer Lisa Kejr, who has served on staff for more than a decade.
Around the time Kejr was first introduced to Lighthouse for Life, the organization was preparing to open a safe house that included a school. With more than ten years of experience in education, a double major in Bible and Elementary Education from Columbia International University, and certification to work with students with emotional disabilities, Kejr offered to help in any way she could. She was soon hired as the organization’s first paid employee, focusing primarily on getting their safe house, Karis Home, up and running.
“It wasn’t long after joining Lighthouse for Life that I learned that human trafficking had been taking place in the school where I had previously taught, and I had no idea while I was there,” said Kejr. “The vastness of this darkness, as well as how easily it was going unnoticed while it ravaged the lives of those around us, gripped my heart.” As the organization grew, Kejr’s role expanded to include broader administrative and operational responsibilities. Her leadership over the years has helped shape Lighthouse for Life into the organization it is today.
The work of Lighthouse for Life varies from day to day. Some days involve walking alongside survivors through difficult parts of their story, while other days celebrate milestones, such as a mom being reunited with her child. Human trafficking is the fastest-growing criminal industry and affects thousands of people across the state each year, often in ways that are not readily apparent. Trafficking can impact individuals from all backgrounds and sometimes occurs closer to home than many people realize. Because of this, Lighthouse for Life encourages community members to become educated about the warning signs of trafficking and to take steps to protect those around them. Increased awareness can have a significant impact. Many families have shared that attending one of the organization’s trainings helped them recognize potential dangers and avoid harmful situations.
While the work of Lighthouse for Life is practical and community-focused, it is also deeply guided by faith. “There is confidence in the power of God’s light to bring healing where there has been harm and hope where there has been despair,” said Kejr. “We strive to reflect that light through how we serve, how we speak, and how we walk alongside those rebuilding their lives. Ultimately, we believe every person is created with inherent worth and deserves the opportunity to thrive.”
Kejr’s passion for the work is anchored in her personal relationship with the Lord and the beliefs she learned growing up. Her father was raised on a farm in Kansas, and the time spent with extended family helped shape her strong dedication and appreciation for faith and family. She also spent part of her adolescent years living in Liberia, West Africa, and attended a boarding school in Côte d’Ivoire, West Africa. These experiences broadened her perspective and left a lasting impact on her life. n
WIL LOU GRAY OPPORTUNITY SCHOOL
3300 W. Campus Road West Columbia, SC 29170 (803) 896-6480
Founded 105 years ago, the Wil Lou Gray Opportunity School continues its mission to help at-risk young South Carolinians get back on track academically.
“We currently accept youth who, for various reasons, have not been successful in traditional schooling settings. They are given an opportunity to apply with us, as long as they meet the age requirements (16 to 19) and are South Carolina citizens,” Wil Lou Gray Agency Head Robert Collar said.
Dr. Wil Lou Gray – the namesake and founder of the school – was an advocate for childhood education.
“Dr. Gray was a huge proponent for children and children’s literacy specifically. That’s really where her passion came about. She believed literacy was going to get children to bigger and better things.”
Collar began at the school in 2006 as a resident supervisor to students and is currently the Agency Head.
“It is residential, so accepted students come for 14 weeks to participate in the program. You get a phenomenal opportunity to work with all backgrounds of children from around the state,” said Collar.
During each 14-week period, approximately 125 participants come through the program. Students often come from challenging situations.
“For some of our students’ cases, the settings they were living in were difficult –whether that was multiple families in a motel room, homelessness, abuse, mental health
by Tenell Felder
that wasn’t treated or documented correctly, they weren’t getting the help they needed.”
Wil Lou Gray works to provide those students with needed support, as well as help them to develop into successful adults.
“We have a licensed social worker and a clinical mental health counselor on shift. We do a lot of exploration into who they are and what attributes make them successful,” said Collar.
As part of the school’s mission to help students succeed, Wil Lou Gray focuses on helping students earn their General Education Diploma.
“We want to make sure they would be a good fit for the program. We teach to the students’ specific deficiencies to help them catch up and then move on to assist them in obtaining their GED. We tell them that the GED is extremely valuable. What you do with it, that’s going to make the difference.”
Wil Lou Gray recently began an innovative program to help students move into the workforce easier.
“One of the newer programs that we’ve created involves a new class of students who have been successful with us in our Phase One program. We work with these students to explore an industry credential at Midlands Tech in training for plumbing, HVAC, heavy equipment, or a machine operator,” said Collar.
“We are very excited. We’ve had a lot of interest in the program because it’s such a great opportunity. We are trying to give our students more opportunities to be successful returning home. Industries are changing rapidly, and we want them to be prepared.”
Collar said he hopes the biggest takeaway for students at Wil Lou Gray will be the sense of belonging and being given the opportunity for self-improvement and betterment.
“When you walk on our campus, it’s a family. We’ve been here for a long time and will keep serving students.” n
by Chesson Merritt
For a dining experience that pairs Southern charm with elevated cuisine, Chophouse of Chapin delivers with ease. Situated along Chapin’s main corridor of Columbia Avenue, it has quickly become a go-to spot for locals seeking memorable meals in a welcoming setting. Whether you’re planning a special night out, celebrating with family, or simply craving a perfectly cooked steak, Chophouse of Chapin has you covered.
Chophouse of Chapin opened its doors for the first time in May 2021 and in the five years since, they have amassed a following of loyal customers that come back time and time again for the unforgettable combination of expertly prepared steaks, fresh ingredients, and a level of care that makes every guest feel like a regular.
The restaurant’s atmosphere strikes a perfect balance between upscale elegance and relaxed comfort, creating an inviting setting where everyone can unwind and savor the moment. Guests can choose to dine inside, or when the weather’s just right, the outdoor dining room is a great spot to enjoy a meal.
“I want our customers to feel like they are the center of our universe,” said Rich Vascovich, Owner and Chief Operating Officer with Happy Fork Hospitality Group. “I want them to feel welcome and comfortable, to be confident in knowing that we are all there to create an experience. I expect our relationship with our guests to be more than transac-
tional. We are there to make a connection.”
At the heart of Chophouse of Chapin’s appeal is its thoughtfully crafted menu. The menu strikes a balance between traditional steakhouse fare and contemporary influences, offering a reimagined take on timeless dishes.
Known for its premium cuts of steak, the restaurant takes pride in delivering rich flavors and impeccable quality. Each dish is prepared with care, ensuring that every bite reflects a commitment to excellence. Beyond the steaks, guests can enjoy a variety of fresh seafood options, flavorful sides, and carefully curated appetizers that perfectly complement the main course. The menu offers something for everyone, whether you’re a devoted steak lover or exploring new culinary favorites.
“We’ve definitely evolved who we are as a restaurant and have come into our own regarding the menu selections and how we source our ingredients,” said Vascovich. “Chef Christopher has done a wonderful job creating carefully curated dishes, and the addition of the Butcher’s Boards has really helped showcase what we are all about.”
The chefs focus on quality ingredients that deliver rich, satisfying flavor in every bite. Each dish is thoughtfully prepared, highlighting both craftsmanship and attention to detail. The result is a dining experience that feels both familiar and elevated, perfect for any occasion.
“The Bone-In Pork Chop is a favorite,” said Vascovich. “Marinated in Al Pastor seasonings, the dish is full of flavor, and the pork chop is unbelievably tender. Of course, our Butcher’s Boards always steal the show. The standout there is the Surf & Turf Board. It’s a 48oz Tomahawk Ribeye, 6oz Lobster tail, grilled shrimp, and Snow Crab cakes served on our locally made wooden butcher boards.”
Every dish is complemented by selections from a thoughtfully curated cocktail and wine menu. For wine enthusiasts, an on-site sommelier is available to guide guests toward the perfect pairing, enhancing the flavors of each course. Their expertise adds an extra layer of enjoyment, making each meal feel more refined and personalized. From the cocktail menu, guests love the signature Blueberry Old Fashioned as well as the house recipe Spicy Bloody Mary.
Chophouse of Chapin has all the elements of a memorable evening, but it goes well beyond happy hours and exceptional dinners. With a talented team and standout culinary expertise, it’s equally suited for life’s larger celebrations.
From intimate gatherings to milestone
events, Chophouse of Chapin offers private event experiences designed to impress. Their team works closely with each guest to craft a customized experience, whether that means a plated dinner, a shareable steakhouse-style menu, or full-service catering for an off-site occasion. With flexible spaces and thoughtfully designed setups, they can accommodate a wide range of group sizes and styles. Every detail—from curated wine pairings to attentive, polished service—is carefully considered, ensuring a seamless event that leaves a lasting impression.
“I think our level of service is really what sets us apart,” said Vascovich. “We provide a high level of hospitality that, quite frankly, is missing from a large portion of our industry these days. I truly believe dining out is all about the experience. Food is why guests join us, the experience and how we make them feel is what keeps them coming back.”
For those seeking an unforgettable dining experience in Chapin, Chophouse of Chapin stands out as a must-visit destination. The restaurant is open daily from 4 p.m. to
10 p.m., with Happy Hour specials offered from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Reservations are recommended but not required, as walk-ins are welcome at the restaurant. Stop in early, settle in, and see why it’s become such a favorite among locals. n
Like their famous firefly cousins, Blue Ghosts light up the night in Appalachia mountains
by Betsey Guzior
Each spring, people flock to Columbia’s Congaree National Park to get a glimpse of fireflies that light up in sync, in a wondrous display of flight and light in the darkness of the cypress bog.
But did you know that just one state over, another nighttime display rivals the synchronistic fireflies? Just head over to parts of the Smoky Mountains.
You can go to wooded areas between 2,000 and 4,000 feet in elevation in the mountains and the valleys of the Southern Appalachians to see the display made by the Blue Ghost fireflies.
What are Blue Ghost Fireflies?
Blue Ghosts are the rarest of the 10 species of fireflies found in western North Carolina.
Instead of blinking like a light switch, Blue Ghost fireflies emit a soft blue and green glow, often as they hug the forest floor. Males fly low to the ground in an effort to attract wingless females, whose glow emits as they wait on the ground under litters of leaves.
Fireflies, or lightning bugs, are actually beetles, and not flies.
When can you see them?
Sightings have been found in western North Carolina, in Asheville, Pisgah National Forest, Great Smoky Mountains National
Park, and DuPont State Forest. There are two peak times: April through late May, and mid-June.
The best times to see them are 9-9:30 p.m. in the earlier time, and 9:30-11 p.m. in mid-June, to accommodate later sunsets.
How do you see them?
It’s more of a challenge to find a sparkle of fireflies than at Congaree, where you can find their light show just past the initial boardwalk. Small groups of Blue Ghost fireflies often gather in a crook of a valley or under decomposing leaves.
The National Park Service holds a firefly viewing lottery each year to limit visits. Reservations usually open in May through the website recreation.gov.
Private tours are also available. Explore Asheville lists hikes from May 7-16 and an overnight retreat from May 7-16. n
SpringChecklistCleaning A Room by Room Guide
by Anna Waters
Spring cleaning sounds motivating in theory. In practice, it often feels overwhelming because you’re staring at an entire house that needs attention and have no idea where to start. Fortunately, this spring-cleaning checklist will help you finish instead of abandoning it halfway through.
The secret? Break it down room by room with a clear spring-cleaning checklist. You don’t have to do everything in one weekend. Instead, tackle one room at a time, and within a week or two, your entire home will feel fresh.
Here’s your complete spring-cleaning checklist to clean without losing your mind.
KITCHEN
The kitchen accumulates grease, grime, and clutter faster than any other room. Start here and you’ll feel immediate satisfaction.
Inside the refrigerator: Pull everything out, toss expired items, wipe down all shelves and drawers, and reorganize as you put things back. Don’t forget the door seals - they collect surprising amounts of gunk.
Oven and stovetop: Use oven cleaner or a baking soda paste for baked-on messes. Remove burner grates and drip pans and soak them. Then, wipe down the stovetop thoroughly, including the sides and control knobs.
Small appliances: Wipe down the microwave inside and out, descale your coffee maker, clean the toaster crumb tray, and tackle any other appliances that see daily use.
Pantry and cabinets: Check expiration dates, toss anything stale or expired, wipe down shelves, and reorganize so you can actually see what you have. Also, wipe cabinet fronts and handles - they get grimier than you think.
Floors: Sweep or vacuum thoroughly, then mop, paying attention to corners and under appliances if you can move them.
BATHROOMS
Bathrooms need deep attention beyond the daily wipe-down. This is where spring cleaning makes a real difference.
Grout and tile: Scrub grout lines with a brush and grout cleaner or a paste of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. Then, clean tile walls and floors thoroughly, including often-missed spots like the base of the toilet.
Shower and tub: Remove soap scum, clean showerheads (soak in vinegar if there’s mineral buildup), wash shower curtains or liners, and scrub corners where mildew hides.
Under the sink: Pull everything out, toss expired products, wipe down the cabinet, and organize what’s left. Check for leaks while you’re in there.
Replace old items: Throw out old toothbrushes, dried-out makeup, expired medications, and ratty towels. If your bathmat is dingy, replace it.
Mirrors and fixtures: Clean mirrors streak-free and polish faucets and handles until they shine.
BEDROOMS
Bedrooms often get neglected because they’re private spaces. However, spring cleaning here improves your sleep environment and reduces allergens.
Bedding: Wash all bedding including comforters, blankets, and mattress covers. If your pillows are washable, wash them. If not, at least air them out in the sun.
Mattress care: Vacuum your mattress, flip or rotate it according to manufacturer guidelines, and consider using a mattress protector if you don’t already.
Closets: Go through clothes ruthlessly. If you haven’t worn it in a year, donate or sell it. Organize what’s left by category and season. Also, vacuum or sweep the closet floor.
Dust everywhere: Dust ceiling fans, light fixtures, tops of dressers and
nightstands, baseboards, and behind furniture. Allergens accumulate in bedrooms and affect sleep quality.
Windows: Wash windows inside and out if possible, and clean or vacuum window treatments.
LIVING AREAS
Living rooms, family rooms, and home offices need attention to high-traffic wear and hidden dust.
Dust from top to bottom: Start with ceiling fans and light fixtures, work down to shelves and surfaces, and finish with baseboards. Use a damp cloth to actually capture dust instead of spreading it around.
Upholstered furniture: Vacuum sofas and chairs thoroughly, including under cushions where crumbs and pet hair hide. Spot-clean stains. Consider professional cleaning for heavily used pieces.
Windows and window treatments: Wash windows, wipe down sills and tracks, and clean blinds or wash curtains. Natural light makes everything feel fresher.
Electronics: Dust TVs, computers, and gaming systems. Clean remotes and controllers - they’re germ magnets.
Floors: Vacuum carpets and rugs thoroughly, move furniture to get underneath if possible, and mop hard floors.
ENTRYWAYS AND MUDROOMS
These transition spaces take a beating and often get overlooked during regular cleaning.
Organize coats and shoes: Donate outerwear you don’t wear. Clean or polish shoes. Reorganize hooks and storage so everything has a place.
Clean floors thoroughly: Sweep, vacuum, and mop. Entryway floors see the most dirt tracked in from outside.
Wipe down surfaces: Clean the inside and outside of your front door, wipe down any furniture or storage units, and clean light switches and door handles.
WHOLE-HOUSE TASKS
Some tasks apply everywhere and make a big impact on your spring-cleaning checklist.
Air quality: Change HVAC filters, vacuum heating and cooling vents, and consider having ducts professionally cleaned.
Declutter: Walk through every room with a donation box. If you don’t use it, love it, or need it, let it go. Clutter makes everything feel dirtier even when it’s clean.
Deep clean floors: Vacuum or sweep everywhere, including under beds and furniture. Mop all hard floors. Consider renting a carpet cleaner for a deep clean if
you have carpet throughout.
Light fixtures: Dust or wash all light fixtures and replace any burnt-out bulbs. Better lighting makes your whole home feel cleaner.
THE BOTTOM LINE
Spring cleaning doesn’t have to happen in one exhausting marathon session. Instead, pick one room per day or dedicate a weekend to knocking out a few areas.
Use this spring-cleaning checklist as a guide, not a rigid rulebook. If something doesn’t apply to your home, skip it. Also, if there’s a task specific to your space that’s not listed, add it.
The goal is a fresh, clean home that feels good to live in. Start anywhere, work through your spring-cleaning checklist at your own pace and enjoy the satisfaction of a thorough spring clean. n
Outstanding Brokerage of the Year
(South Carolina)
In the ever-evolving world of real estate, few brokerages manage to stand out not just for their production but for their purpose.
REMAX Purpose Driven, led by Broker/Owner Laura Reid, is doing exactly that. The firm recently earned recognition from REMAX HQ as the Outstanding Brokerage of the Year for South Carolina, further redefining what it means to build a business rooted in both performance and people.
What began as a passion for helping families buy and sell homes has grown into something far more impactful: a collaborative, high-performing brokerage
built on integrity, innovation, and service.
“Over the past two decades, what started as a love for real estate evolved into building something bigger than me,” said Reid. “REMAX Purpose Driven was created for servant hearted, collaborative, and productive professionals who want to do business at a high level together.”
A Culture That Sets the Standard
At the heart of REMAX Purpose Driven’s success is a culture that sets it apart in a highly competitive industry. While each agent operates as an independent entrepreneur, the brokerage thrives on true teamwork, shared knowledge, and genuine support.
“As a brokerage, our culture is everything,” Reid explained. “We collaborate, we support each other, and we genuinely care. This is a tough profession, and doing life together isn’t just beneficial; it’s essential.”
This intentional approach has cultivated a tight-knit group of professionals who prioritize quality over quantity, excellence over ego, and relationships over transactions. The result is a brokerage that not only performs at a high level but also creates an environment where both agents and their clients can truly thrive.
Leadership Rooted in Experience and Vision
Reid’s leadership is deeply influenced by her background in construction and business. Growing up in a family-owned business - Nugent Builders - she developed an early appreciation for craftsmanship and the foundational elements of building something lasting. Combined with her degree in marketing and business administration, that experience has translated into a strategic, forward-thinking approach to brokerage leadership.
Over the past 13 years, REMAX Purpose Driven has grown through intentional development, continuous learning, and a commitment to evolving as both a business and a community.
“Building this brokerage hasn’t been all rainbows and sunshine,” Reid shared. “There’s been immense growth and learning along the way, but it’s shaped me into a stronger leader and allowed us to create something truly special.”
Impact Beyond Real Estate
As the Midlands and especially the Lake
Murray area continue to grow, REMAX Purpose Driven is positioned at the forefront of that expansion. With a strong foundation, a clear mission, and a culture that prioritizes both performance and people, the brokerage continues to attract top talent and deliver exceptional results. From luxury waterfront properties to
first-time homebuyers, the team approaches every client relationship with the same level of care, strategy, and commitment.
“Real estate is more than transactions,” Reid said. “It’s about helping people build a life, create memories, and invest in their future. That’s what drives everything we do.”
Raising the Bar in South Carolina Real Estate
Being nominated as Outstanding Brokerage in South Carolina is more than just recognition; it reflects years of dedication, intentional growth, and a steadfast commitment to doing business differently.
REMAX Purpose Driven is a boutique office with an international brand spanning over 110 countries. REMAX has been voted the most Trusted Brand, and the numbers make it the most productive brand in the industry.
RE/MAX Purpose Driven -
Lexington/Lake Murray
955 East Main Street, Suite R Lexington, SC 803-356-0424
While there is a wide variety of gifts you can buy for Mother’s Day, a good gift will focus on relaxation. Simply put, most mothers do not get enough time to sit back and enjoy leisurely activities. Mother’s Day should be about encouraging relaxation and stress relief. Here is a list of ideas to celebrate the mother in your life.
Aromatherapy Set
Aromatherapy is a great way to regulate mood and reduce stress. For example, lavender has been shown to reduce anxiety and improve sleep. An aromatherapy kit with lavender candles or essential oils is perfect for the mom who would enjoy and benefit from a calming environment.
Journal
Daily writing is therapeutic. According to research, expressive writing can regulate emotions and relieve anxiety. A journal kit that includes an aesthetic notebook, fun pens, and reflective prompts will encourage mindfulness, which is important for moms managing stress and anxiety.
Herbal Teas
Sometimes, a soothing cup of tea is all you need to calm the mind and body. Herbal blends are known to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety. Put together a tea gift basket with chamomile, lemon balm, and peppermint teas for a natural way to fight stress and anxiety.
Bath Gift Basket
You can personalize your gift by making a gift basket of relaxing bath favorites. Bath bombs, bubble baths, shower steamers, fancy soaps, or face masks can all make excellent additions to a bath gift basket.
You can pair this basket with a bathtub tray for added convenience.
Adult Coloring Book
No matter how old we get, there’s one childhood activity that will never go out of style: coloring. The perfect joint activity for moms and kids and a scientifically proven way to relax the brain, adult coloring books are having a serious moment.
Weighted Blanket
Getting optimal sleep can be challenging for moms who are on the go day in and day out. Weighted blankets mimic deep touch pressure therapy, calming the nervous system and promoting restful sleep.
Acupuncture Mat
Used to help treat many body ailments associated with stress, such as aches, pains, and muscle tension, an acupressure mat mimics the art of acupuncture by gently touching pressure points to release endorphins. It’s a particularly great gift for moms who may be wary of needles but are still interested in their health and wellness benefits.
Spa Day Gift Certificate
Nobody needs a spa day more than a mother with a busy routine. Whether she’s been talking about needing a massage or pedicure, tailor the spa treatment to her needs and give her the day off she deserves.
Wine
At the end of the day, every mom deserves the chance to unwind with a nice glass of wine. Pick one of her favorite varieties and let her indulge in some much deserved “me time.”
Why stress relief gifts matter
The right stress relief gift will do more than just help someone feel good at the moment. It can support healthy sleep habits, improve focus, protect long-term mental health, build emotional resilience, and offer a sense of stability.
Every mother wants a gift that means something to her and reminds her of her family. These gifts will not only remind her of you every time she sees them but will also bring added relaxation on Mother’s Day. n
spice OF LIFE Simple Spring Desserts
Banana Pudding Cups
1 (3.4 oz) box banana pudding mix
2 cups cold milk
1 (8 oz) tub Cool Whip
20 vanilla wafers, crushed 8 vanilla wafers, whole 1 large banana, sliced 8 plastic cups for serving
Extra vanilla wafers, for garnish
Whisk together pudding mix and milk until well combined and no lumps remain. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 5 minutes to thicken. Mix the Cool Whip into the pudding until just combined. Divide half of the crushed vanilla wafers between your 8 serving cups. Add a few scoops of the banana pudding mixture to each cup to fill halfway. Repeat the layers with the remaining crushed wafers and pudding. Chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Garnish the top of each cup with several banana slices and a whole vanilla wafer before serving.
Raspberry Lemon Cake
2 cups heavy whipping cream
½ cup powdered icing sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup of lemon curd
9-10 large graham crackers
3-4 cups fresh raspberries
Whip the cream with a hand mixer until soft peaks form. Add the sugar and vanilla and whip until stiff peaks form. Fold the lemon curd into the cream mixture. Layer graham crackers in the bottom of an 8×8 dish. Spread half of the whipped cream filling on top of the first layer of graham crackers, and top with half of the raspberries. Repeat layers one more time, pressing the graham crackers down gently. Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight, until crackers have softened.
Chocolate Avocado Mousse
2 ripe avocados
½ cup cocoa powder
¼ cup maple syrup
fresh berries
Cut the avocados in half, scoop them into a blender, and blend until smooth and creamy. Add the cocoa powder and maple syrup, then blend again until completely mixed. Spoon the mousse into individual bowls and refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving. Top with fresh berries before serving.
Lemon Bars
1 cup lemon juice
1 cup sweetened condensed milk
1 cup crushed graham crackers
Mix lemon juice and milk, then fold in the crushed graham crackers until everything is well combined. Pour this mixture into a lined baking dish and spread it out evenly. Chill it in the refrigerator for about 2 hours until it is set.
Coconut Lime Bites
1 cup coconut, shredded
1 cup dates, pitted
Zest of 1 lime
Blend pitted dates in a food processor until they form a smooth paste. Add the coconut and lime zest into the processor, and blend until all ingredients are well combined. Scoop out the mixture and roll it into bite-sized balls. Refrigerate the bites for about 20 minutes before serving.
Strawberry Yogurt Bites
Yogurt Cups
½ cup granola
1 cup yogurt
½ cup strawberries, hulled & diced
Topping
¾ cup strawberries, sliced ¼ cup granola
Line a 12-cup muffin pan with liners, sprinkle 2 tsp of granola into the bottom of each cup, and set aside. In a bowl, add yogurt and strawberries. Using a fork, mash fruits into the yogurt until mostly mixed in, with just a few chunks remaining. Using a rubber spatula or wooden spoon, stir and fold until well mixed. Spoon 2 Tbsp of the strawberry yogurt mixture into each cup, press 1 strawberry slice into the tops of each cup, and sprinkle granola. Freeze until firm, about 2-4 hours, and thaw for a few minutes for serving. n
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Across
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1. Florist supply
1. Florist supply 6 Fitzgerald of jazz 10 Shrewd storybook cat
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6. Fitzgerald of jazz 10 Shrewd storybook cat 14.Intimate 15.Den
