Make the Most of Mother’s Day

Don’t wait until the last minute to settle on a Mother’s Day plan. Because this Sunday, mothers across America will receive lame gifts and be served unsavory food by their well-meaning, but poor planning, progeny.

Don’t let this happen to your mother. If you haven’t already, get out in front on this one.

Mother’s Day may be a commercialized Hallmark holiday. But it’s for your mom! The woman who made your lunch, washed your clothes, and went to all of your recitals and sporting events when she could have been home eating Funyuns and watching JAG.

Begin by asking yourself, what does mom like to do? Cook? Read? Run? Fish? Garden? Sew? Then look for a gift that compliments her interests. It doesn’t have to be expensive. Just make it something that shows you’ve put more than five seconds thought into choosing her gift.

Flowers are nice. But go for the potted variety that can go outside and last all summer. A quick stop at a Linder’s Flower Mart should do the trick. If you’re really paying attention, you’ll have some idea where she might put the pot and how much sun that area gets. Choose accordingly.

Jewelry, perfume and clothing are tricky. Unless you’re sure of her tastes, or she’s pointed out particular items, don’t put poor old mom in the position of having to wear something she hates. Or worse, in the position of having to return your gift and then forever lie that she’s lost it.

You can rarely go wrong with consumables. A bottle of wine, theater tickets or a beautifully boxed gourmet assortment of Harry and David treats should all be fail safe.

Or maybe you’re planning to take your mother out to eat. Consider what types of dining she prefers. Not all Mother’s Day brunches are created equal. The best Mother’s Day buffet I’ve enjoyed was at Axel’s at Prestwick, which is now David’s Chophouse. I’m unsure if their brunch is still as good. But it’s worth a look.

Some mothers prefer full-service restaurants. If this describes your mom, skip the buffet line altogether. And if where you’re going requires a reservation, get that done today!

Gift cards are acceptable presents only if you choose those specific to shops your mother frequents. Exceptions would be gift certificates toward indulgences like a massage, a manicure or even housekeeping or lawn service!

But please refrain from homemade coupons for any chores or time commitments unless you’re under 10 years old. Encouraging your 10-year-old, on the other hand, to create cute homemade gift certificates for mom is acceptable. Extra credit goes to any dad who helps his child thoughtfully make or choose a special Mother’s Day gift.

Remember, time is also a gift. Make time for your mother on Mother’s Day. Call her or sit with her. Be interested in her life and what she has to say. And remember to thank her for all she’s done for you. Those words might be the best gift of all.

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