I'm not sure which pattern I would choose for the one for your mom, but if I used the DSP - isn't that the one where you make a 9 patch and then cut it vertically and hortizonally through the middle? I would be careful with your corner squares to make sure you don't cut into the birds and butterflys. And, I would use a coordinating color(s) for the middle part that you'd cut through. I think that would turn out very pretty.

For your mother-in-law - does she do holidays where she decorates a lot, then perhaps she has enough to sit out here and there. Maybe you can find a material that is Christmasy looking, yet not to Christmasy but wintery thrown in there and she could use it for the winterish season.

Hope I helped a little.
Hugs,