I never truly appreciated what my mother did for me until I became a mom myself. And now I know. Being a mother is the hardest, most beautiful and challenging role of all. But I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
From the late nights to the early mornings, the sweet moments and the really, really hard ones, we learn how to raise a baby without any real manual all while running on little to no sleep. It’s kind of amazing what moms do in a day. Moms are truly amazing!
Speaking of, anyone else want to make a motion that Mother’s Day lasts a full week from now on? I think we deserve it.
While this Mother’s Day may look and feel different, we still deserve to celebrate and be celebrated. So even if that means staying at home, here are a few ideas of gifts moms REALLY want. The good news is that most of them are free or very easy to execute!
Gifts Moms REALLY want for Mother’s Day:
- A morning to sleep in: That’s right, the No. 1 thing most moms want is sleep. It’s the simplest gift of all but would really brighten my day to wake up to no alarm clock (a.k.a. my toddler that is an early riser) and to go at my own pace. I would be thoroughly happy with the gift of sleeping in and know I am not alone here. Let mom sleep in and stay in bed in pajamas for as long as she wants. Even if that means not leaving the bed all day. Bonus points if we get coffee once we are ready.
- A break from regular mom duties: Making all the meals, cleaning up the house, changing diapers, coming up with activities, doing the laundry, the list goes on. After that much-deserved lounge session in bed, might as well add a break from regular mom duties to the gift list this year. Don’t get me wrong, I love these little moments and don’t mind taking them on, but I think I would enjoy these “mom duties” more if I could have one day off from doing it all. What would you do if you didn’t have to worry about mom duties for the day? Bring on a Netflix session followed by a workout, please.
- A little pampering: Beyond gifts of service (like taking over mom duties), I wouldn’t mind the gift of pampering. It could be a random assortment of face masks, nail polish and cozy slippers and the chance to finally just take care of myself. It doesn’t need to be complicated. Pair it with a use-for-later “gift certificate” to take a long shower or bath at any time mom pleases. There is nothing better than an uninterrupted shower, am I right? Self-care time is good for the soul and a gift all moms deserve.
- Something made with love: In all seriousness, there is nothing that makes my heart explode with gratitude for being a mom than receiving something handmade by my son. It could be as simple as a card, piece of art or even a cheesy photo printed on a coffee mug, but anything that is made with love is always appreciated. This is also a fun challenge to all to come up with an activity with the kids while mom relaxes! Need ideas? Pinterest is always full of easy ones!
- A special meal: We all have that one meal that always puts you in a good mood no matter what. Have that meal delivered (or request your version of it at home) for the perfect gift. Take it up a notch by creating a special atmosphere for mom to enjoy the meal, like an outdoor patio set-up or a simple picnic. Get the kids involved by creating a special menu to make it feel like a fun experience for everyone. Whether you make it a family meal together or save it for once the kids are in bed, there is nothing better than getting your favorite meal and enjoying it with your favorite people.
- Something that continues to grow: A beautiful house plant or flowers that can be planted in your garden and will continue to grow is something special that will serve as a reminder of the day. It’s a simple reminder that all the hard work and love we pour into our role as a mom is worth it when we can see our little one flourish. Plus, it’s a fun activity to plant the new addition together as a family. If mom doesn’t have a green thumb, you can’t go wrong with a succulent!
Mamas, you all deserve something special this Mother’s Day! Do you have a special Mother’s Day tradition or request? We would love to hear what you love to receive and how you like to spend the day!
