Thursday, May 6, 2010 — Spring is definitely in the air. And fragrant and eye-popping gift ideas have bloomed just in time for Mother's Day!

What gift ideas, you ask? Well, we went right to their creative source - Tania Guzman, owner of Tania's Hair Salon - for an explanation. You see, Tania recently decided to expand her business by offering beauty products including nail polish, blush, and homemade perfume! (Once Millsberrians purchase the polish and blush, the colors can be applied to their nails and face by going to the "Customize Your Buddy" section.)

"I've always watched my mom apply makeup and nail polish - and now I can finally put on a little of my own," remarked one excited customer.

Another confided, "I think I'll purchase one of Tania's perfumes for my mom. Maybe the one called Mixed Millsberries. It's slightly fruity, which is perfect for this time of year. Plus, it comes in an antique bottle that I think she'll love!"

Turns out that Tania's perfumes are flying off the shelves - and into the hands of some notable Millsberry citizens including Mayor Trumble, who bought Golden Valley Vanilla for his mom; Millsberry Academy's lunch lady, Mrs. Grubbly, who received a bottle of Buzz the Bee Honey Musk from her daughters; and Wearhouse boutique owner Loretta Rivers, who couldn't resist buying Lakeview Lavender for herself and her mother!

So, who got the best Mother's Day gift of all? Well, that would have to be the town historian Edna Nelson, whose vibrant personality inspired another one of the popular scents, Edna's Elderberry. (Elderberries are trees with small purplish-black fruits.)

After sniffing Tania's creations, the Gazette caught up with the successful salon owner to ask her how she managed to make these delightful fragrances. With a smile, Tania noted, "It's just a little water, some fragrant oils...a little of this and a little of that."

Sounds like it's still easier to purchase perfume than it is to make it from scratch. Of course, if you're set on getting your mom a fresh-smelling present, you can always buy flowers, bake some cookies, or clean the house!
So don't forget: Sunday, May 9th is the day to shower your mother or other loved one with appreciation, laughs, and maybe a little perfume!

Finally, this week's Grow Good Farms Cross-Country Scavenger Hunt clue:
From race cars to surfboards, the fun never ends.