What to Do for Mother’s Day

First shared in 2011, Mother’s Day is just days away and if you want to have your best Mother’s Day yet, its time to take charge and make it happen. Don’t be fooled into thinking that if you wish it, it will come. In fact for many busy Moms, I’d guess that the less you say about what you hope Mother’s Day will be like, the less likely you’ll end up with a day that fills your heart. Here are my tips to help you get the Mother’s Day you want.

1. Ask for it – Mistake number one, expecting them to read your mind! Let your family know exactly what you would like. If time alone tops your list, work with your partner to empty the house. If a pedicure is all you’ve ever wanted, provide the phone number and address of the nearest Nail Salon so that gift certificate can be purchased with time to spare. Recognize where your family might be logistically challenged and set the stage early to let them know what to do and how to get it done.

2. Holiday Management – Mistake number two, expecting them to fill your shoes! Mother’s Day is a holiday like any other and every busy Mom knows holidays require prep work from house to meals to gifts. If you have youngsters who love to make you treasures, buy supplies to make a few different items and let you partner know all about it. Be sure to give a heads up on how much time it will take and plan to leave the house to make it happen. If breakfast in bed is your family tradition, stock the fridge a few days before so the chefs can find exactly what they need to wake you up in style. If you have plans to have a house full or simply want a clean house for the day, enlist your little helping hands in cleaning the week before or dial the maid service so that all chores are out of the way and the fun can begin. Nothing like a well planned party to warm your home and fill your heart!

3. Partner Participation – Mistake number three, expecting anything! Lets face it.things never work out well if you assume that gifts are on hand or dinner is in the bag. But this day isn’t about gifts or even about a day off from your awesome responsibilities as a parent. By honoring Moms, families are celebrating the joy and love that makes being a part of this world a delight. Let everyone know that on this Sunday, there is a family commitment and everyone must be present. Gently letting them know that this special day is around the corner will excite and encourage them to share with you their heartfelt sentiments.

4. Going It Alone – If you are a single mom, your courage and selfless commitment speak volumes to the character and soul you surely possess. Make special plans to enjoy your family on Mother’s Day, be it a field trip to the park or a day at the library. Choose an activity that you know will bring out the best in your brood and revel in the fact that you are making it happen every day, 365 days a year. If you know a mom who parents alone, encourage her children to honor their mother in their own special way and when you can, offer to help them with materials, purchases, or guidance to make their heartfelt expression happen.

I hope these tips help you decide what to do for Mother’s Day this year.  Taking charge can be a delicate balance but if you know your family well, its likely just a little bit of creative suggestion can make all the difference in you truly having the Mother’s Day you’ve always hoped for.  Tell me…

Do you take charge when it comes to Mother’s Day?

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