Lucy-Rose
Parents can be impossible, can't they? I ask my mother what she wants for Christmas and she says something awful like 'for you to be happy' and I'm left thinking that I was actually looking for something in the realm of the possible. For example, a candle or a bottle of pinot noir. Occasionally I can get a list out of her a week before the big day but often she wants nothing. There are only so many bath bombs you can buy the woman. Just when I thought I'd got through Christmas, suffered through her Birthday present and I'm safe for another year, I've realised I've forgotten Mother's Day. So, after screaming into a pillow, I must figure out what on earth to get her, again.
You, of course, can go the classic route of a candle, chocolate or bath salts. Something to pamper and relax however, I think that these can be predictable. Hopefully these suggestions are somewhat a little more thoughtful.
The funny T-shirt
I mentioned in a previous post the HILARIOUS 'I've got two daughters; you can't scare me t-shirt' that I got for my Dad that one year. Maybe your mum has felt left out and would like one too! They're often customisable which adds a personal touch and it makes it look like you thought about the gift for longer than 30 seconds the night before. It'll make Mum laugh and guaranteed to at least come out for gardening or whenever you go on a family camping trip. Plus, they're fairly affordable. If you didn't want to get a T-shirt perhaps a personalised apron or tote bag would also go down well. One can't have too many bags to store under the sink.
Check what she's run out of
Honestly, it can't hurt to check through the drink's cabinet or the bathroom cabinet (or ask your dad) and see if the wine or moisturiser is running low. Maybe they have a signature scent, or they would appreciate not having to think about buying toothpaste for the next three years. Whichever it is, you can be sure to find something they need and replace it, showing you care about their wellbeing and that their drinks cabinet is ready for when you come round next. The point of this gift is to show that you care and notice the things that are important to them. Not to mention, it saves them some money and trip to the shops.
In terms of skincare and drink, you can always go the extra mile and research something new for them to try. I am personally a big fan of those mini gin selection packs you can buy and then trying them all.
Time is money
If your Mum is anything like mine it's almost impossible to pay for anything when you're out together. I can recommend getting the McDonald's app, because my mum doesn't know how to use it and I can use it to pay sneakily before she can. I know, I know, I really do spoil her.
You know what though? Sometimes it's not the money but the time you spend with your loved ones. So maybe, go with your mum to that historic house and museum tour, even though you hate it. Just make sure you don't complain for at least the first ten minutes. Take them out for brunch and make sure you pay for it. Send mum for that couples massage she's always wanted but your dad refuses to agree to. You can offer to go on his behalf and whilst being an excellent offspring, you also get a massage. You could take Mum out for a coffee, it doesn't have to be expensive, but it can still be quality time. Talk about the weather, the state of the economy and the cost of heating. I'm sure you get my point, spend the time and be the gift. You can be the favourite for the day. Let your siblings know that it is a competition.
Get her to make a list on ThingsToGetMe
Some mums won't tell you what they want outright, but maybe you could convince her to make a list on here that she could send to you and all your siblings. That way none of you get the same thing, and you know it's something she definitely wants. Win, win. If she won't make a list, I can point you in the direction of the inspiration engine that can be found here. You can fill out the details of the person you're buying for and then suggests suitable presents.
Failing everything else, buy the flowers. Whatever you do, do not fall for the 'I don't want anything' line. Do not turn up to Mother's Day lunch empty-handed. You have been warned.
