We were recently sent a copy of Around My Mother's Table: Stories and Recipes Celebrating Lives Lost to Breast Cancer ($16.95 with some proceeds going to breast cancer initiatives), and thought it might make a great Mother's Day gift. It's a sentimental, if not bitter-sweet book that's been created with lots of love.

Editor and compiler Lisa Burton embarked on the project after losing her own mother to breast cancer. Her journey results in a book mixed with 39 stories and recipes from other daughters and sons who've lost their mothers. Unlike other books like this, it really does seem like a celebration, and if you walk away with a message, it will be to cherish the moment.

If the book seems like a macabre choice, then think of it as an excuse to hang out more often. Order a copy and share it with your mom. Then get together and make the recipes, or write down your own family heirlooms. Something tells me mom won't say no to spending more time with her loved ones.