Mother's Day is quickly approaching - and all the fretting about what to get Mom has begun. But what if there was a way to get her something meaningful - in addition to the kids' artwork and breakfast in bed? Why not consider the gift of starting an online business? It could be the best gift a mom could give herself.

I know, I know. Most people either think of Amazon or eBay - or some Internet marketing scam when they think of online businesses. And nothing in between. But there are thousands of small reputable businesses on the Internet today. Just as over 95% of businesses have less than 100 employees, Internet businesses are growing as a viable commercial source for small business owners.

The cost and difficulty in actually building an online business has all but disappeared. What still counts are great products and services and effective marketing. Gee - that sounds like a standard business, doesn't it? Except that now your business could be up and running in 24 hours...or maybe a week...or a month. It's really up to you.

Starting small
A recent national news show had a story that the average American household had approximately $3,000 of "stuff" that could be sold on eBay. Not a bad start to a business - using stuff you already have and making a couple grand. That beats a garage sale! And with eBay, they provide everything you need to set up your own store once you get to the website (you still have to have a computer). You get to leverage their massive consumer reach and payment systems. It's a great way to get started.

Or you can create a simple site devoted to selling your one-of-a-kind flower pots. Maybe it is through eBay or maybe not. If you have any technical skills, you can build a website easily enough. And if you don't have any, there are a number of "website in a box" options from reputable folks that can have you up and running in little time. Just be sure that you have the rights to your site content and products - and that you are not stuck waiting for someone else to update your site for weeks.

Or maybe you just have a lot to say. Blogging could be your best bet. Keep in mind that lots of people have blogs - and the number grows exponentially each year. But if you have a particular niche with a great spin (and your personality can be enough to set you apart from the "corporate" bloggers), it can be a good way to get your online business started. And it can be free.

Getting bigger
No matter how small you start, there will be a time that you need to decide to grow your online business bigger - or not. Add it to the stack of decisions you make each day - no problem!

Maybe your little eBay store is rocking, and you are now selling for other family members or neighbors. For free. Why not consider setting up a business and charging a small fee for each sale? Or maybe you've expanded your flower pot line to include other gardening gear and an ebook. And your blog is so popular that you are creating a website based on what your audience really likes.

Whatever your decision, make sure it's about you - the mom. Remember, this is a gift to yourself so that you can follow your passion (and maybe make some money).