My mum turns 60 in a few weeks and she would really love all of her children to be together but it's not possible. For my dads 60th we (me, my husband and kids) flew back and surprised him but it's not financially possible this year. My sisters and brother are all in the uk with mum so it's just me missing. Can anyone think of something special we could do/buy/make for her so it appears we are all together? My sister has suggested a skype conference call but that's never reliable! They are also thinking of a digital photo frame that we all load our family photos on to. This feels a bit naff though. Has anyone been through anything similar or have any suggestions/inspiration.

Your ideas would be really appreciated

One idea - get a photo book with a difference printed, with each page reserved for each one of you to write your favourite memories of your Mum, and to express your feelings for her now. The text can be printed around photos - would be great if you and each of your siblings have a photo of just you/them and your Mum, but anything (photos cropped etc) can be done quite quickly, easily and cheaply with these photo books.

I hope your Mum has a wonderful birthday

Just you go back or maybe take one of the kids? We actually just sent one of the kids on his own one year to be the family rep.

Maybe go back by yourself? I don't think anything will match up, especially as you flew back for dad, she might be thinking that you are planning to surprise her too.