For Mother’s Day this year, Paul is taking all five kids out of the house for most of the day. I’m…not sure I can find a single thing to complain about there. I plan to buy a box of chocolates and/or a pint of ice cream ahead of time, and spend the day reading and/or watching TV. Then I’ll go to Wendy’s for lunch. Maybe bring the food home with me, just so I can eat the fries with the maximum awareness of not sharing them with anyone.
Perhaps you are not expecting such a nice Mother’s Day yourself? My boss is looking out for you: she’s giving away a $25 Amazon.com gift card to one commenter on this post. You don’t have to comment anything in particular, though of course we all enjoy reading stories of past outrages and disappointments! They don’t even have to be your OWN stories, if a friend of yours had a particularly good-story one. Come on, spill it.
In the meantime, many of us have a little shopping to do for our own mothers.
My own mother greatly enjoyed The Cazalet Chronicles, a series of four books by Elizabeth Jane Howard. (Photo from Amazon.com.) The Light Years (careful: there are a bunch of other books with the same name) is first, followed by Marking Time, Confusion, and Casting Off. The first thing you’ll likely notice is that some of the books are unusually EXPENSIVE for paperbacks. Well, perhaps it wouldn’t be wise to buy all four right of the bat anyway, until you know if your mom likes them. Get just the first one and see. Or maybe the first TWO, since the second one is the cheapest of all four.
Or if your mother would rather watch it on TV, there’s a DVD box set (photo from Amazon.com) of the first part of the book series. My mom liked that too, although she said she was glad she’d read the books first. (She also liked Downton Abbey—for comparison to your mother’s tastes.)
Speaking of Downton Abbey (photo from Amazon.com), I’m having a little trouble figuring this out but apparently PBS broadcast a cut version of the show? So if your mom loved the show, a nice treat might be to get the uncut UK version on DVD so she can see the whole thing: series one and series two (look in “More Buying Choices” over to the right: the one that pops up is over $50, but there’s another set for $20). But I’m a little confused because the series 1 box says PBS on it? But also says “Original UK Edition”? So I am a little fretful. Well, it would be nice to have even the PBS/cut versions on DVD!
Continuing with the theme of “Things Swistle’s Mom Likes,” my mom has and likes this little one-cup brewer (photo from Amazon.com). It takes Senseo pods, and it’s a good way to try out the K-Cup/Tassimo concept in a smaller, less expensive way: the machine is $20 instead of over $100, and my grocery store has 16-/18-packs of the Senseo pods for $4.
And/or a Le Creuset mug (photo from Amazon.com) in Cherry. My mom’s favorite color is red, but for myself I like the Caribbean (turquoise), the Dijon (yellow), or the Flame (orange).
My sister-in-law got me AND my mother hooked on Choffy—it’s like coffee, but made with cacao beans instead of coffee beans. It’s too late to order for this year—well, or maybe you could print out a little picture of it (perhaps one in better focus than the one I used here) (which is from DrinkChoffy.com, I should have mentioned), and say it’s coming soon!
One of my favorite Etsy artists is Kristiana Parn. This sweet otter print (photo from her Etsy shop) would be great for a new mother (or for a new father, if you want to get a head start on Father’s Day).
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What are you hoping to get for Mother’s Day? What are you planning to get for your mom? Leave any comment to win a $25 Amazon gift card! We’ll pick a random comment on Sunday, May 13!
Update: The winner was commenter #25, Kate!
A whole day to myself sure sounds nice! But just being remembered at all is always a good thing. One year my husband completely forgot and that felt just wtf horrible. I love it when he takes my daughter shopping to choose something, one year she picked out a pair of sneakers for me.
Groovymarlin | May 9th, 2012 at 1:05 pm
Hub is taking my kids out of the house as well. It is Mother’s Day tradition around here. My plans are to read and nap and maybe take a nice long shower without anyone having to pee or ask me a question even though their father is sitting on the couch.
Saly | May 9th, 2012 at 1:09 pm
Lucky you! I’d love a day at home without the kids. Lots of eating chocolate without having to share
stacy | May 9th, 2012 at 1:12 pm
Oooh - fun set of gifts! I’ve asked for … Sleep. Even though my kids are ages 3 and 4, I still like sleep above all else. (When do they learn to sleep in on weekends?)
NellaBean | May 9th, 2012 at 1:15 pm
My hubby does pretty well with Mothers’ Day every year. This year, we’ll spend it with his Mom as her husband is out of town.
Jen P | May 9th, 2012 at 1:17 pm
I’m going to go to church, then to my little cousin’s dance recital. I’m also going to make my sons make dinner for myself and my mom. The older one is 15, so he can cook, but my 7 yr old assures me he can make me a big sandwich. Which was so incredibly sweet when he said it that I about died.
My mom wants stuff for summer… she watches my little guy while I work (cuz retirement = spoiling the grandkids) and will be going swimming with him a lot. So she wants a new cooler and these really neat drink dispensers she saw at Walmart that will fit in a cooler. So, that’s what she’s getting. Easy for me, happy making for her. Win-win!
Rebecca | May 9th, 2012 at 1:18 pm
I have asked for a new pair of pajamas and a book. I will send the pictures to my husband and he will go get them. It works for us! Flowers would be a nice bonus. I also think he should take our 4-year-old with him as he shops, just to fully appreciate how my own experience.
My mom asked for a new pair of summer pajamas. I’m planning on buying a wooden birdhouse and letting my son paint it. We’ve made those mosaic tile stepping stones before, but I think we may have run out of time on that.
As for worst present stories, I have a friend who, on her FIRST Mother’s Day, got a PILLOW. It had Texas bluebonnets on it, and was from a gas station. (They were on a road trip to Texas.) Oh, she was mad! It was pretty much the most meaningless gift ever.
Sam | May 9th, 2012 at 1:30 pm
Ugh, my husband is awful at all this. We see one of those Hallmark Mother’s day commercials on TV, and he says “What is wrong with those women that they need so much validation? They shouldn’t need anyone to tell them that they are good mothers.” Yeah, but sometimes it is NICE. I am married to Mr. Sensitive (who actually does tell me I’m a good mother, but still ignores holidays.)
Shari | May 9th, 2012 at 1:34 pm
Nellabean- My 13-year-old will sleep now until 10:00 or LATER! It’s MARVELOUS! The 11-year-old is just working his way up to 8:00ish. (Little ones still bright-eyed at 6:00, sadly.)
swistle | May 9th, 2012 at 1:55 pm
I’m in my fifth year of motherhood and have yet to receive anything that my husband took the kid to help pick out. It is just not in his radar. Doesn’t help that my birthday is usually close by (this year the day before) which apparently means it is too much to remember.
Shelly | May 9th, 2012 at 1:56 pm
Shari- Oh, man. I’d be tempted to be all, “Oh I know! And what is WRONG with people that they need gifts on their birthdays! They shouldn’t need anyone to tell them they’re another year older!”
swistle | May 9th, 2012 at 2:00 pm
I’m excited to check out The Cazelets, thanks for the rec!
Ah, Mother’s Day. It’s always kind of a bummer. I love being a mom but I always seem to be disappointed if I have expectations for this holiday (and trust me, my expectations are not high at all). I usually just try to focus on my mom and MIL (the Grandma generation). I have a great spouse, he’s just notoriously bad at gift giving/remembering holidays. Oh well!
Barb @ getupandplay | May 9th, 2012 at 2:05 pm
My mom and MIL are getting cards from us and drawings from the kids. I’m not a very good gift-giver, obvs. I would really like some wind chimes but i forgot to drop hints to the husband and now he is out of town until Saturday. DRAT.
chrissy | May 9th, 2012 at 2:17 pm
I’m not really hoping to get anything, but out anniversary is the 18th so we’re heading to shop for bedroom furniture this weekend. The grandparents will watch the girls while we shop, so that’s really all the gift I need/want. Maybe we’ll find something and that’ll be a nice mothers day, anniversary fathers day combo gift for each other. Any other year I’d just like to sleep in, not wipe anyone’s butt for the day and read at my leisure.
Melissa | May 9th, 2012 at 2:23 pm
I have asked for sleep as well. I dont’ think I’m going to get it!
Heather | May 9th, 2012 at 2:26 pm
my kids have some big SECRET they’re excited about. I don’t know what it is but I’m assuming it’s b’fast in bed.
I don’t have any horrible stories but can’t wait to read the other comments.
el-e-e | May 9th, 2012 at 2:36 pm
I’m sending Mom flowers– I can’t be there…and then, she’s coming down for Memorial Day to look at wedding dresses with me
Meredith | May 9th, 2012 at 2:40 pm
Not exactly sure what my plans are for Mother’s Day this year. Before looking at the calendar last month, my husband announced that we should do our spring cleaning on Mother’s Day weekend (to his credit, he works most weekends and it’s one of his few off), we will NOT be doing that. I’m hoping for a day of minimum work for me.
Amanda | May 9th, 2012 at 2:42 pm
I’d love a day to sleep in, but I think I’m taking the kids to see my parents and my grandmother, since hubby’s working on Saturday all day.
I don’t generally give him much in the way of ideas, but he’s never asked either. My gifts tend to be of the nice but generic variety.
Gretchen | May 9th, 2012 at 2:58 pm
This will be my 15th Mother’s Day and it will once again be spent running around to see different sides of the family and take them out to brunch, lunch or dinner. Which is nice, I do love them, but the day has never been about me or what I want to do. Father’s Day is the exact opposite - my husband will announce “Off to the golf course! We’ll be back at 5 to grill some steaks!” and off he goes with my son and father-in-law. You’d think after all these years I would have learned to follow his example!
Diane | May 9th, 2012 at 3:03 pm
A good chunk of the day alone in my own home would be the most wonderful gift. Unfortunately, my husband doesn’t seem to understand or believe me when I say this. So looks like I’ll maybe have breakfast in bed and then the usual Sunday.
Maggie | May 9th, 2012 at 3:15 pm
Your eating fries without having to share plan fills me with envy. That in itself is perfection!
My husband keeps coming up with weird excuses to not buy me anything or do anything special. He uses the “ridiculous greeting card company conspiracy” one, I don’t need validation because he tells me every day what a wonderful job I do (but only if it comes up in conversation, if I bring it up but only after I thank him for working so hard to support the family or talking about what we’ll do on his days off while reminding him I NEVER get a day or afternoon or second off), he sucks at picking out presents and doesn’t know what I want so I give him examples so he says if I want anything ever I can just buy it for myself because he’ll buy me something if I really truly want him to but he objects on principle (so why would I want a gift from someone I knew didn’t actually want to give it to me?) and he claims he doesn’t have time to shop. He does have time, however, to research online what kind of surfboard he’ll be having custom made and go fishing by himself. SERIOUSLY. This is my 4th mother’s day, we now have two children, and I am not looking forward to the day at all. I hope he figures it out eventually.
denese | May 9th, 2012 at 3:58 pm
I <3 giveaways. How cute is that Le Crueset mug?
Anonymous | May 9th, 2012 at 4:09 pm
This is only my third mother’s day, but we always trek the hour down to my parents house to do lunch with them and my MIL (she lives in the same town) and of course my sister (no kids yet) comes over too. This will be the first year without my Grandma there as well
Then we get an attempted guilt-trip phone call from the sisters-in-law who live on the opposite coast because we didn’t do X, Y or Z for the MIL and blah blah blah.
It’s conflicting, because as much as I’d like to have the day to myself, my daughter is only 2, so I’d likely be shut out of my house for the day if I wanted to be alone. And then I’d be ignoring MY mom, and we all don’t see each other that often anyway.
Holly | May 9th, 2012 at 4:19 pm
I love the Downtown Abbey idea! But mostly because I would love it myself…I have no idea whether it would suit Mom. Fret.
kate | May 9th, 2012 at 4:33 pm
I sent flowers to my mom and my mother-in-law for Mother’s Day. I wasn’t expecting much of anything at all for Mother’s Day for myself, but my husband surprised me with a Nook after I told him I was looking into getting one eventually. You may wonder why I already know what I’m getting…my husband thought Mother’s Day was this past Sunday. He’s not very good with dates
Elisabeth L | May 9th, 2012 at 4:37 pm
We don’t usually do gifts for mother’s/father’s day, but I have been in a bit of a gardening frenzy lately and this morning I found myself dreaming of a gift of a nice perennial plant that I could add to my garden. Wouldn’t that be a nice tradition to start?
Kate | May 9th, 2012 at 4:40 pm
Scott started a nice tradition where the kids always get me something springy for the yard: a potted strawberry plant, flowers, hanging baskets, etc. This year I asked for a hedge trimmer. I’m serious.
Nowheymama | May 9th, 2012 at 4:52 pm
I don’t plan to get anything for Mother’s Day. Single mom of two teenage boys–I’m just being realistic here. I got my mother a chocolate sunflower plant because she loves plants. I may also go visit and take her a meal since she’s laid up with a broken arm right now.
Emily S. | May 9th, 2012 at 5:04 pm
I really can’t complain. My kids are 4 and 7 so my husband is still in charge of gift-giving and he frequently blows me away with his creativity and/or generosity. This year, I asked for the “TOMS<3sMOMS” shoes. http://www.toms.com/mothersday (although I certainly would not turn down a gift card from Amazon!)
I got my own Mom a rose bush and a Target gift card.
I have a question you might answer in a later post this week (if you do one): What shall we DO for Mother’s Day? My husband always asks and I never know how to answer because I’d like it to be something for the whole family to do together and the brunch, shopping, tea kinda thing I would like isn’t good for little people. Any brilliant ideas?
SallyG | May 9th, 2012 at 5:15 pm
This year we’re going to the beach over Mother’s Day, so I’m presenting my mother with a gift card to Home Depot. I give her grief for being so veggie/rose garden crazy, and feeding every bit of wildlife that wanders into our yard, but it does make our home bright and springy which is nice to come home to after a long day.
I’ll echo you, Swistle; the best Mother’s Day gift I received was THE WHOLE DAY OFF. I bought myself a groupon for a massage and then took myself out to lunch. Alone. Read and ate pasta and had a mojito and then dessert too. It was bliss.
BKC | May 9th, 2012 at 5:32 pm
I think an empty house might just be the best Mother’s Day present ever.
Julie | May 9th, 2012 at 5:33 pm
My worst mother’s day gift was my first one…I had a 3 month old non -sleeping baby, and my husband bought me an alarm clock (Reason…it matched his!). They have been better since, and I usually ask for alone time as part of my gift. Although on a day after Mother’s Day. That 3 month old has turned into a lovely 5 year old who for now thinks it’s fun to dress like Mom. So, I bought us matching dresses at Hanna Andersson (sp?) last year and we’ll enjoy wearing them again this year.
Liz | May 9th, 2012 at 5:40 pm
Some “me time” for mother’s day would be nice…
Heidi J | May 9th, 2012 at 6:13 pm
This is my first mothers day as a mother and we are traveling to spend it with my husbands mother. I’ll send some flowers to my mom, and really just hope for a nap or day off of changing diapers for myself.
Jenny | May 9th, 2012 at 6:26 pm
SallyG- I always wonder about that, too! Because I would LOVE to go out for a mimosa-filled brunch or a fancy ladies’ tea party—but I think I’ll have to save those for when the kids are all grownups! This year I think I might take the kids to the animal shelter to look at the cats: it’s something I like to do, and specifically something I like to do WITH them, so it makes a good activity.
swistle | May 9th, 2012 at 6:30 pm
I am hoping to sleep in for Mother’s Day!! Of course, that doesn’t mean what it used to, but still, not having to get up with the baby would be nice.
Michelle | May 9th, 2012 at 6:51 pm
It probably misses the whole point of being “celebrated” as a mother, but I usually buy my own present. I get something I actually want, he doesn’t have the stress of trying to pick something out, it’s win-win. I know he WOULD do it if I wanted him to, and that’s enough for me.
For my own mother, it’s pretty easy because she keeps her Amazon wishlist updated.
Brenna | May 9th, 2012 at 6:54 pm
I’m a single mom of an autistic child. Mother’s Day is never what it is for others. I remember by this age making my mom breakfast in bed. No such expectations for me.
Mich | May 9th, 2012 at 7:02 pm
I got my mom a new tote bag for the beach…she has A Thing for sanddollars, and this one has a fun screenprinted sanddollar. But the more exciting thing for her is that her younger daughter is graduating from college Saturday, so we will get to celebrate both!
vanessa | May 9th, 2012 at 11:15 pm
OH. Speaking of gifts. I have this fabulous very eccentric, super super smart great aunt. Wealthy as all hell. When my parents first got married, she sent my dad for Christmas a…wait for it…
Jar of chutney.
vanessa | May 9th, 2012 at 11:18 pm
For the past five years or so, my mother, sister-in-law, and I go to the casino! We have a nice lunch, a couple hours of slot machines, and great conversation. Our kids are all teens/adults so nobody minds…it’s a fun time.
Mo | May 10th, 2012 at 12:01 am
I think I will get Downton Abbey for my mom. Great suggestion!
Melanie | May 10th, 2012 at 12:17 am
My very, very, very best Mother’s day gift…when my oldest turned 16 and had her driver’s license. After school one day she took her younger brother and sister out to the river near our house and they took a bunch of pictures of themselves with a scenic background . And they got the pictures printed up. And they bought frames and gave me three amazing pictures of themselves for Mother’s Day. It was bittersweet…how happy it made me that they did all that by themselves (for ME!!), but a little sad that they didn’t need me so much anymore…
Deedee | May 10th, 2012 at 1:06 am
I put several different wooden wind chimes on my amazon wish list and my husband let my kids pick one out for me. Yay! Exactly what I want! Also: dinner out at a pizza place so I don’t have to worry about noise or manners.
Linda | May 10th, 2012 at 1:23 am
I usually get a night in a hotel by myself (bliss) but we are b.r.o.k.e. this year. That choffy looks interesting, I think my mom might like that!
vegas710 | May 10th, 2012 at 1:48 am
Hi Swistle and Swistle’s mom!!
We’ll be attending church. And, um, maybe going out for dinner? We live large.
may | May 10th, 2012 at 2:42 am
I will be spending a lot of the day with my MIL, who loves Mother’s Day and is in increasingly poor health. I will be trying to focus on how lucky we are still to have her with us and not projecting to what the situation will be a year from now.
I think I want that otter print. I love otters. Maybe I could have an actual otter and keep it in the bathtub.
Slim | May 10th, 2012 at 11:32 am
I also asked for a day to myself. But not on Mother’s Day
My husband told me he really needs to get his garden in since all of our other weekends are getting booked up. Our oldest (3 years) likes to help him in the garden and the youngest (almost 1) still takes a long nap, so I’ll get a little alone time 
sarabean | May 10th, 2012 at 11:46 am
All I ever want for Mother’s Day is a family picnic. Preferably one where no one is in a grouchy mood, but any picnic would make me happy.
Lora Richardson | May 10th, 2012 at 1:17 pm
I don’t hope for anything because I never get anything. My son is 3 and my husband is not into holidays! If I got the Amazon gift card, I can finally get a new coffee maker for myself. I would like to make a heartfelt card for my mom and spend time with her and my son. We can’t take any time for granted. Now that I am a mom, I appreciate her even more and am amazed at the wonderful job and all the hard work she did raising me and my brothers!
momsrgreat | May 10th, 2012 at 1:44 pm
Isn’t it funny how the best mother’s day gift is to be left alone? That is my dream too.
Stimey | May 10th, 2012 at 2:15 pm
I got my mom a set of metal bird feeders and a solar gazing ball thingy. Not my cup of tea, but it’s what she wanted and she will love it:)
Stacie | May 10th, 2012 at 4:14 pm
I want to NOT spend the day with my MIL. Unfortunately, that is not an option. My husband is not great at Mothers’ Day but he did ask me what I wanted/wanted to do, which is better than guessing or blowing it off, and I told him I wanted to go to a movie, and I didn’t want to cook anything all day.
In past years we have gone to the zoo as a family, which I love (and is free), but I’m not sure my MIL can handle that this year, and I’m not sure I can handle her complaining.
Someone earlier mentioned getting a plant…besides the MIL drama, that was actually my worst Mother’s Day gift. My first Mother’s Day, and I was (still) reeling from all the work of caring for my 8 month old son, and they got me SOMETHING ELSE THAT I HAD TO KEEP ALIVE. I was crushed, and yet in the world that did not involve my hormonal madness, it was a lovely idea and a beautiful flowering tree, and Hubby was so proud of himself for taking the baby to “help” pick it out, etc. I never expressed my actual feelings about the gift, and it’s just as well, because it is a lovely tree now that actually requires very little work on my part.
Auntie G | May 10th, 2012 at 6:21 pm
A. Whole. Day. I would take an uninterrupted couple of hours. Especially today. My youngest has hit 2 very, very hard. Oh, wait, I hear them screaming now
Matti | May 10th, 2012 at 6:43 pm
I think I am getting a baseball glove…daughter started t-ball and I am not equipped. That is what they are hinting at. Won’t that be fun for me? !
SandyW | May 10th, 2012 at 7:35 pm
My mom and I are taking a mediterranean cooking class’s this year! I’m not sure who is more excited!
Melissa | May 10th, 2012 at 8:41 pm
would love $25 to spend at amazon, not sure about mother’s day having some serious health issues over here, just taking it one day at a time.
jill | May 10th, 2012 at 11:07 pm
I have a three year old and a two week old. I want a nap and a shower.
Last year Mr. Thoughtful decided Mothers Day was not worth noting. I let it slide and took the same stance on Fathers Day. Oh The Woe. The Injustice. Misery ensued! A “do over” was declared. We’ll see what happens this year. My expectations are not high–Mr. Sensitive seems to be on a bit of a tear this year (two minutes after I announced that I thought I was in labour he announced that he is going to quit his job). Bah. Boys. Eventually the girls will take care of this for him.
Bunnyslippers | May 11th, 2012 at 12:22 am
Well, I bought my mom some cute, very girlie - but comfy - night shirts. Something my dad would not pick out. Something my mom would admire, but then not actually purchase for herself.
For myself, I bought some cute pajamas (and gift wrap) and then gave them to my husband and told him this would be my gift.
Together my mom and I decided on a restaurant for dinner. Mom made the reservations and then informed my dad that he’s be paying for said dinner.
Sometime a gal just has to do things herself! :o)
Jolie | May 11th, 2012 at 4:19 pm
I screwed up and didn’t even mail a card in time, and I have no idea what else to do for my Mom. She’s sort of difficult to buy for…
As for myself, well. My boyfriend’s kids’ mother committed suicide in December. Her birthday is Saturday, the day before Mother’s Day this year… All weekend is going to be about her, unfortunately. Visiting the cemetery, etc. They seem to have forgotten that *I* have been doing all their mothering for years now. And he seems to have forgotten that I am, in fact, a Mother, to my own two small children, and that as their Dad it’s sort of his job to help them do something for Mother’s Day.
Andand he starts a crazy shift at a new job on Monday so this is the last few days before he”l literally be gone all week long at all the times when the children need things. Morning/getting ready for school, off to the school bus he’ll be sleeping after getting home after 2am; after school/homework/chores/dinner/bedtime will all be ALL me. *sigh*
It’s all very ‘ugh’ this year.
Alicia Cross | May 11th, 2012 at 6:16 pm
I’m back to eat my words.
I was just asked what I would like to do on Sunday. (After being teased that he was going to treat me with a day of one on one time with the kids—even if it meant that had to go out and go to movies and for lunch by himself.)
Shower and a nap, here I come!
Bunnyslippers | May 11th, 2012 at 7:20 pm
Sounds like a great Mother’s Day plan!
I asked my husband if he can buy me some extra pages for the Shutterfly book that I’m making of our 3rd child’s first year. I’m having a hard time cutting photos from the book.
My Mum lives in the UK, so they already had Mother’s Day in March - I sent her a photo card.
British American | May 12th, 2012 at 1:08 am
British American- This seems like the ideal solution to trying to celebrate more than one generation of mothers!
swistle | May 13th, 2012 at 1:55 am
We’re pitching in to get my mom a computer gadget she wants. I’d never turn down a gift, whatever it is.
Karen | May 13th, 2012 at 2:02 am
So glad I got the “last chance” tweet.
tracy | May 13th, 2012 at 2:03 am
I’d love it if the baby slept all night (haaaaa). Since we all know that’s not going to happen, the usual suspects make me happy: coffee in bed, flowers, wine, chocolate. I meant to ask for some birthstone/baby jewelry but didn’t get around to picking out a favorite.
Sarah | May 13th, 2012 at 2:07 am
What I would love to get for Mother’s Day is a day to myself and a little pampering. Let the hubby take the kids. Send me to a spa for a massage, mani/pedi and a facial. What I am going to get is a day with no break since the husband works the night before and has to sleep all day to prepare for his next shift.
Julie | May 13th, 2012 at 2:09 am
I got our moms picture frames with a picture of my daughter holding a sign that says “Happy Mother’s Day! I love you!” Easy peasy on a budget! I’m not necessarily hoping for anything specific this year. Just a day with my husband and daughter.
Tara | May 13th, 2012 at 2:10 am
I’m hoping to sleep in an extra half hour, and get a sunny day to go for a walk
I got to sleep in this morning, though, while my 4-year-old did ‘art projects’ with my husband, so I won’t be disappointed either way 
Ellen | May 13th, 2012 at 2:10 am
Im getting a set of pictures of my 4 month old son for Mother’s Day. It will match the set I gave my husband 3 years ago for Father’s Day.
Miranda | May 13th, 2012 at 2:11 am
Oh I’m just excited about whatever it is my 5-year-old made me in Kindergarten that she’s been talking about for a week now. She’s practically shaking with anticipation to give it to me, so I’m almost definitely going to burst into tears the second I see it.
Diane | May 13th, 2012 at 2:12 am
My girls are grown. The youngest is in college so she is not quite out of the nest yet, but away during the school year. She is having finals next week so I expect nothing from her. Maybe a phone call? My oldest is married with a 6 month old baby and living over 1000 miles away. I have not received a card or anything so am hoping for a phone call…I sent her a card for her first mother’s day. What I would wish for tomorrow is to be with both of my daughters just hanging out together. Not a fancy brunch or dinner at a restaurant. Not even a fancy meal at home really. Just being together and enjoying each others’ company. it has been a while since we have all been together and I miss it.
Deedee | May 13th, 2012 at 2:14 am
I’m a pet sitter and Fri, Sat, and Sun I’m staying overnight for a client. I’m sleeping without kid interruptions (4y/o and 10 mo old) and I don’t plan on going home very early. Thinking I’ll lounge around here until at least 10 a.m. before returning to my fam. Spend time with them then back here for my “vacation”!
Amy | May 13th, 2012 at 2:15 am
I drove from Michigan to Wisconsin to see my mom. Best gift!
Kaitlin | May 13th, 2012 at 2:16 am
The best Mother’s Day gift I ever got was actually a paid for night in a hotel by myself! And money to shop at the outlets nearby. A friend came with me for the shopping and dinner; then I went to a movie by myself and slept in a big bed all alone (in a good way!) and had a long shower, breakfast, and some quiet reading time before heading home. It was awesome. My husband probably still has a five to ten year window in which he can give totally mediocre gifts because I’m still so thankful for that one year!!!
Kelsey | May 13th, 2012 at 2:17 am
Kelsey- Oh, what a great gift! “Hotel room” is my happy place!
swistle | May 13th, 2012 at 2:18 am
I am having to clean my house to host MIL and GRANDMIL. Happy mothers day - even though I love them I do hate cleaning. :-/
Leah | May 13th, 2012 at 2:18 am
I am hoping that my (just turned TODAY!!!) one-year-old sleeps through the night tonight. That’d be the best. gift. EVAR.
Stephanie | May 13th, 2012 at 2:18 am
My husband says he’s going to let me sleep in, then he and our toddler will bring me breakfast in bed. But I like your plan a lot a lot too.
Naomi | May 13th, 2012 at 2:18 am
I love your suggestions! Every one!
Mary O | May 13th, 2012 at 2:22 am
I get the entire day to MYSELF. I do not have to tell ANYONE what to eat, wear, clean, etc. HEAVEN
suburbancorrespondent | May 13th, 2012 at 2:24 am
I am currently discussing with my husband how he will get all the kids out of the house for at LEAST the entire day tomorrow. I love how mother’s day almost exclusively means mom wants time to herself, whereas father’s day involves dad grilling for everyone and spending quality time with the kids. Reverse sexism or something
Anne | May 13th, 2012 at 2:24 am
I’m too poor to get my mom anything.
Mary | May 13th, 2012 at 2:25 am
mom & mil are getting photo books!
rae | May 13th, 2012 at 2:25 am
Today I got a 2-hour nap. As I have a nearly-1-year-old baby who still does not sleep through the night, that was present enough! My 3-year-old made me some sort of craft during the nap with Daddy and waiting until tomorrow to give it to me is KILLING her. And I am not making dinner tomorrow, and I am eating some caramel fudge brownies. The end.
Lilly | May 13th, 2012 at 2:26 am
I have a feeling my husband won’t remember that it is now up to him to do something special for me on mothers day. Our daughter is only 2 so it’s not like she knows what to do! We will see what tomorrow brings!
Rachel | May 13th, 2012 at 2:27 am
For Mother’s Day, my sisters and I are going to church and dinner with our mom and the dads are watching the kids. Should be grand. Lots of fun baby talk too — 3 of 4 sisters are pregnant. Love your plan for the day especially the ice cream/chocolate part!
Christa | May 13th, 2012 at 2:27 am
My first Mother’s day I had an 8 week old, had just quit my job and was moving across the country for husband’s work. When someone asked what we were doing for Mother’s day he replied, “Nothing! She’s not my Mother!” True story.
Purdy Bird | May 13th, 2012 at 2:28 am
I’m not getting anything for Mother’s Day–it’s not a huge deal for us (other than the one two years ago that took place the day after I found out I was pregnant) and Torsten just had surgery and is on Percocet and can’t drive, so he couldn’t get me a gift even if he wanted to. For my mom my sister and I collaborated on a collage frame featuring photos of us and our kids with my mom.
Jess | May 13th, 2012 at 2:28 am
Our wedding anniversary and mothers day often overlap…so I get “combo” gifts a lot. And the specialness of each day gets obscured. I would like the chance to go back and rethink the choosing of the wedding date. Little late now, though…since it’s been WELL over a decade. :p
Danell | May 13th, 2012 at 2:28 am
No big plans but just hoping to sleep in!
Anne | May 13th, 2012 at 2:30 am
My husband always kind of has good intentions but is fairly terrible at actually planning anything for birthdays and holidays. I’ve kind of given up hoping for anything exciting. Sigh.
karen | May 13th, 2012 at 2:30 am
I got patio furniture. It is very lovely.
Happy MOther’s Day!
Elizabeth | May 13th, 2012 at 2:31 am
Forget buying Downton for my mom (though she’d love it), I want if for MYSELF. Is it seriously only $20?
Jesabes | May 13th, 2012 at 2:35 am
Oh my gosh, that otter print! When I was pregnant with Grace we called her Otter.
Annika | May 13th, 2012 at 2:36 am
Plants - they seem lovely but are one more thing I have to keep alive. I’d love a new mug and some good coffee!
Another Kristen | May 13th, 2012 at 2:37 am
Amazon is my favorite thing in the whole world and it gets a whole lot of my $$$ every month!
Loud Girl | May 13th, 2012 at 2:43 am
I got my mom and mother-in-law each a swatch book from Paper Coterie. They love them, and they books are the perfect size to keep in a purse.
Emily | May 13th, 2012 at 2:43 am
I am looking forward to my first mothers day with two boys!
Kris W | May 13th, 2012 at 2:44 am
Happy Mother’s Day, Swistle!
Jess | May 13th, 2012 at 2:44 am
Fun! For Mother’s Day I will probably get what I get every Sunday (church then a latte & a stroll at the mall), with the addition that I get to dictate what we eat for lunch and dinner and watch on TV when we go home, and no one gets to complain. Probably also some back rubs from the kids. I have it good.
My mom got a card and I’ll call her.
My husband used to refuse to celebrate Mother’s Day until he got the smackdown from me. I don’t need stuff, just ACKNOWLEDGE THE DAY. I require it.
The gift card would be pretty awesome, though.
Josefina | May 13th, 2012 at 2:45 am
that sounds like an amazing mother’s day–enjoy! i bought my mother roses for mother’s day, but i’d love to have the gift card!
jenn | May 13th, 2012 at 2:50 am
I made my mother and MIL photo books from Snapfish. My husband brought me flowers on Friday and I get to go out by myself in the afternoon! Huzzah!
Erin | May 13th, 2012 at 2:50 am
And THANK YOU so much for recommending The Light Years on your blog- I devoured it and then devoured Marking Time and can’t wait for the next one (on hold at the library).
Sorry for the duplicate comment I hope it doesn’t mess up the contest, but I just really enjoyed reading about the Cazalets- escapist historical fiction at its best!
Erin | May 13th, 2012 at 2:53 am
welll, my husband just flew to New Zealand for a job interview, leaving me pregnant and on solo parenting duty. Let’s just say tomorrow may invole copious amounts of ice cream…
Helen | May 13th, 2012 at 2:53 am
A day alone is my plan for tomorrow as well but I have a 4 week old and am nursing so it will be alone time with me and my pump. Good times.
Wendy | May 13th, 2012 at 3:00 am
I will receive a wonderful gift of all 4 of my children and all 5 grandchildren being here with me on Mothers day. I look forward to helping with dinner for everyone.
Susann | May 13th, 2012 at 3:05 am
Time to exercise, a little peace and quiet, picnic lunch, and take-out for dinner!!!
jan | May 13th, 2012 at 3:06 am
Just hoping for some peace and quiet. And possibly pancakes. Getting my mother fun jewelry, because she loves it. Hydrangeas for the grandmother - I do enjoy treating her to them, since they come directly from our yard.
Alexis | May 13th, 2012 at 3:07 am
I think I’m getting some flowers. That’s all I know.
cate | May 13th, 2012 at 3:12 am
Oh, I would spend this on guilty pleasure books!
Amy H | May 13th, 2012 at 3:13 am
We’re taking Mom out for Breakfast and will pamper her all day!
Lala | May 13th, 2012 at 3:18 am
I have to work on Mother’s Day. BUT….I work as an L&D nurse, so at least I get to enjoy taking care of other women as they become mothers.
Jennifer H | May 13th, 2012 at 3:19 am
My kids get to play xbox while I take a nap tomorrow. Awesome! And they have some things they made at school to give me. Love those!
I am feeling badly because I just finally got the Mother’s Day cards in the mail on Friday, so the grandmas won’t have a card from us by tomorrow.
Amanda
Mayhem | May 13th, 2012 at 3:20 am
Treating myself to a little giftie sounds very nice! I can usually expect flowers and ….laundry. (as per usual)
Marieke | May 13th, 2012 at 3:26 am
I am asking for a gift certificate for a massage/pedicure. I love the idea of a day with no kids too!
Elizabeth | May 13th, 2012 at 3:26 am
We are doing brunch, and I’m hoping for a camera lens!
Sara | May 13th, 2012 at 3:31 am
I’m trying save up gift cards for a Clarisonic Mia - this would be perfect!
deanna | May 13th, 2012 at 3:34 am
I’d love to have a day alone for Mother’s Day…alas, no.
Sarah | May 13th, 2012 at 3:37 am
Looking forward to a good cook out!
Lindsay | May 13th, 2012 at 3:55 am
I love the one-cup coffee maker thing! What a great idea, to be able to try out that brewing system without making such a huge financial commitment to something you might not ever end up using. My mom would probably prefer something that would provide greater amounts of coffee at a time, but I might try to feel her out and maybe get her one for Christmas
Thanks for the idea!
Carolyn | May 13th, 2012 at 3:56 am
I never thought of that - ditching the kids on Mother’s Day - that totally rocks!! Honestly, I can’t think of anything I would enjoy more than spending an entire day home alone - eating fun food, watching whatever I want on TV - oh: to dream!! Thanks for the wonderful idea - hope you enjoy your day!
Kim | May 13th, 2012 at 4:00 am
We had our third baby the week before Mother’s Day last year and my bleary-eyed husband did nothing. When I woke up in the morning and realized it was business as usual, I had a hormone-induced temper tantrum, put myself back to bed, and, when I woke up feeling better, we all went out for Indian buffet.
Elizabeth | May 13th, 2012 at 4:04 am
Your Mother’s Day sounds lovely! I hope you enjoy the heck out of your alone time.
Christina | May 13th, 2012 at 4:08 am
I thought I had already left a comment here, but Ctrl + F says otherwise!
meanliving | May 13th, 2012 at 4:13 am
I’m getting a day off to sleep or sew or do anything I like. A day when I don’t have to be mommy to my adorable but a handful nieces!
LauraD | May 13th, 2012 at 4:20 am
Choffy…. I must try this! I know it is the night before mother’s day, but I am adding the mug to my wish list. that is awesome. Perfect for drinking choffy!
kristinc | May 13th, 2012 at 4:29 am
Great list! Books sound fab!
Amber | May 13th, 2012 at 4:31 am
My mom passed away two and a half years ago, three weeks before I became a mother myself - so this is a very bittersweet day for me. But I do love to honor her and remember her, and to celebrate my two little boys who made me a mommy! We live in a country where Sunday starts the workweek, so my husband is off working all day and I’ll probably do some errands and maybe treat myself to lunch somewhere.
Kristin | May 13th, 2012 at 4:33 am
I am pregnant with our first — so excited!
Jess | May 13th, 2012 at 4:34 am
My daughters, five and three, made paintings for me at preschool. Other than that I’m not expecting anything and would be pleasantly surprised if I get anything else. My mother is overseas so she won’t be getting anything from me either…
Eva | May 13th, 2012 at 4:36 am
A trip to the zoo and a nice breakfast. Then dinner with the kids when they get off work. Sounds perfect to me!
robin | May 13th, 2012 at 5:02 am
That Le Creuset mug in purple shall be mine. A whole day sounds lovely. I would have to try reading and watching tv at the same time.
Lippy | May 13th, 2012 at 5:06 am
Hoping for some thoughts (or maybe even a phone calls) from my stepkids who live many states away…but will take a glass of wine, just in case!
moojoose | May 13th, 2012 at 5:21 am
I’m hoping for a $25 amazon gift card for Mother’s Day!
Christy | May 13th, 2012 at 5:37 am
Well, considering I’m 40 weeks, 3 days, what I’d really like for Mother’s Day is this baby already. For my mom, she will get a heartfelt phone call and an ichat, and will be wonderful and forgive me for not making more of an effort this year.
Lynnette | May 13th, 2012 at 5:39 am
Every year I make my mom something for Mother’s Day. This is a longstanding tradition with us. Every year it gets harder and harder. But I love showing her how much I love her this way, every year.
Cassie | May 13th, 2012 at 5:54 am
I’ll give this a whirl.
I wish my sister, who like a mom to me,
health and peace of mind.
She is sorely lacking right now.
Gail | May 13th, 2012 at 6:31 am
This is my first Mother’s Day! We are sick, boo. Baby has pinkeye and I feel a cold coming on
Had a great date tonight, though, babysitting courtesy of Grandma. Now, if we could all heal up, the day would be perfect.
Erin | May 13th, 2012 at 6:37 am
I give Paul a thumbs-up and a couple of hero cookie votes for taking the kids out!
Becca | May 13th, 2012 at 7:28 am
Swistle’s mom has good taste! Thanks for the gift ideas!
Ellen | May 13th, 2012 at 7:39 am
I get to win, right? It would only be fair, considering that it is a Mother’s Day contest that I am entering at 4:37am. I have not been awake since three of my own volition. (Also, my child is almost three and a half. That’s years, not months. Most of the other ones I’ve heard of sleep by now.)
HereWeGoAJen | May 13th, 2012 at 8:07 am
An Amazon gift card is like a genie bottle filled with $25 of wishes. I love how you can get anything with it.
I predict a breakfast in bed for myself with some stylish kid-made cards featuring the color purple.
Jennifer Mason | May 13th, 2012 at 9:09 am
I am American living in England. Mothering Sunday was two months ago.
I love the idea of having TWO mother’s days to celebrate. But my husband disagrees!
Disappointment abounds.
Raisin4Cookies | May 13th, 2012 at 9:23 am
I dropped enough hints that I hope my herb garden will be planted for me by the time I get home from work. : ) Happy Mother’s Day to everyone!
Kim Stachowiak | May 13th, 2012 at 9:51 am
I am spending today watching silly television and knitting, and if I had children, I would probably want to be given the chance to spend a day watching silly television and knitting. Mother’s Day was months ago here, and my mum got a phonecall and I prodded Michael to phone his mum, too.
Cayt | May 13th, 2012 at 9:51 am
The best part of being a mom? When your 4 year old spontaneously comes up and says, “Mommy, I love you.”
Cheryl | May 13th, 2012 at 10:16 am
I have no stories of past disappointments as this is my first pre-mothers–day (6.5 months pregnant with my first), but I did get a card in the mail from my wife (who left the country on a trip earlier this week and mailed it from work in advance) and that was incredibly unexpected and sweet.
Anne | May 13th, 2012 at 10:18 am
I’d say I hope I get to sleep in. But I’ve been up for an hour already, so…
Becky | May 13th, 2012 at 10:31 am
We are going to a renaissance festival today. I figured, how many moms are really going to want to come out to something like that on Mother’s Day, so I’m hoping it won’t be too crowded!
Jennifer B | May 13th, 2012 at 10:57 am
We had a ton of fun picking out beautiful hanging flower baskets for my husbands’ mother yesterday- it was hard to choose!
Kate | May 13th, 2012 at 10:59 am
I want a good happy day with fun time with my kids, some time to do my own thing and a little extra kindness and consideration from the husband.
alexa | May 13th, 2012 at 11:11 am
Thanks, Swistle!
Thea | May 13th, 2012 at 11:15 am
I’d most like my husband to take the kids out of the house, that sounds pretty awesome.
Christy | May 13th, 2012 at 11:33 am
I am hoping to get my car detailed by anyone who is not me. It is really gross and I keep interpreting people’s comments about how dirty their (much less dirty than mine) cars are as hints that I’m driving around in a mobile pig sty.
Sharee | May 13th, 2012 at 11:36 am
an electronic mousetrap.
brandy | May 13th, 2012 at 11:40 am
my day may involve donuts and taking my husband and daughter to feed the ducks in the park
aly | May 13th, 2012 at 11:54 am
Happy Mother’s Day! Thanks for the reminder. I meant to enter Wednesday when I got home and to a proper computer, then forgot. Fingers crossed!
Suzannah | May 13th, 2012 at 11:54 am
I would like someone else to make ALL the decisions for a day. No asking me what is for lunch or where are their shoes or can they have more milk or is candy appropriate for breakfast? One day a year where my husband answers all those questions won’t kill anyone. And also I would like a giant ice cream sundae - which I got last night, so so far my weekend is pretty good.
Suzanne | May 13th, 2012 at 12:09 pm
Thanks for being a great Mom that we can all look to Swistle!!!!
Amanda | May 13th, 2012 at 12:27 pm
I have a terrible cold, so I got to sleep in and there was iced coffee waiting for me when I got up.
lillowen | May 13th, 2012 at 12:27 pm
I just want more painting done in my dining room and my house tidied up. Easy peasy, right?
divrchk | May 13th, 2012 at 12:28 pm
Am I too late? I am checking emails/reading blogs this a.m. because it’s MOTHER’S DAY and I am entitled.
Going to see my own mom in a bit. It’s going to be a lovely Sunday.
Melanie | May 13th, 2012 at 12:31 pm
Just had breakfast in bed (cold, dry toast and Diet Coke!) and loved it!
KateB | May 13th, 2012 at 12:31 pm
Great ideas! Love, love, love Downton Abbey! Love the idea of the Senseo machine but I am concerned because I’ve read that they are discontinuing the pods, sadly. I am getting my mother a Netflix subscription. Actually, it’s sort of a tradition, as I’ve been renewing her subscription for about 5 years now. It’s not the most creative gift but I know she loves it! I also made her a card with a collage of photos of the family taken at her birthday dinner in February.
Patti J | May 13th, 2012 at 12:33 pm
My children are grown and have invited me over for a Mother’ Day dinner. Reaping the rewards of raising children to adulthood!
Debra | May 13th, 2012 at 12:35 pm
I am hella jella about your day alone! Enjoy and happy mother’s day!
Joanne | May 13th, 2012 at 12:36 pm
Books would be a wonderful mother’s day gift.
Angie | May 13th, 2012 at 12:48 pm
Any quiet day curled up with a good book is a good day! Chocolate is a plus.
Rah | May 13th, 2012 at 12:51 pm
Here’s what I want for mother’s day: a new blender, a watering wand attachment for the hose, and for people to keep the house picked up for one day without my help. That last one is my “fantasy” gift
Amber | May 13th, 2012 at 12:58 pm
If it’s not too late, I would love to win the gift card! This is only my 3rd mother’s day so nothing has gone incredibly wrong for me just yet. I train my hubby a little more each year and it seems to be working ok. Maybe next year I’ll actually get to sleep in.
Hillary | May 13th, 2012 at 1:02 pm
For Mothers’ Day, I like to get a bunch of daffodils or spring flowers and make breakfast in bed.
Rebekah | May 13th, 2012 at 1:08 pm
Happy, happy Mother’s Day to you, Swistle. I hope your days is even better than planned.
Donna | May 13th, 2012 at 1:17 pm
A whole day to do nothing sounds absolutely wonderful. I hope you enjoy it!
Ris | May 13th, 2012 at 1:18 pm
Is it too late? Well, happy Mother’s Day anyway!
velocibadgergirl | May 13th, 2012 at 1:32 pm
I’m looking forward to a family day spent relaxing at home & enjoying the beautiful weather!
Katrina | May 13th, 2012 at 1:38 pm
I’m hoping to get some quality time with my husband and NO kids.
Courtney Tucker | May 13th, 2012 at 2:00 pm
I think breakfast in bed is the ultimate mother day morning
Mo | May 13th, 2012 at 2:09 pm
My kids woke me up at 1:30am with a headache, 3:00 with a stuffy nose, and 6:00 with an urgent need for a glass of milk. And my husband slept right through it because he’s in India for work. Happy Mother’s Day to me!
I think if I don’t win a gift card I might buy myself some stuff anyway. Enjoy your day of solitude!
Lauren | May 13th, 2012 at 2:21 pm
It’s my first Mother’s Day!!
Amyella | May 13th, 2012 at 3:32 pm
For Mother’s day this year, I got greeting cards for each of the moms (mine, my husband’s, and his stepmom) and had our son sign them and do some colorful marker artwork on them. Also, I had to mail them since we’d be out of town on Mother’s Day.
It feels a little like a cop-out, but I know they’ll get a kick out of his scribbles and we’ll call them today too.
Meggan | May 13th, 2012 at 4:07 pm
is it too late to comment in time to be entered into the contest? either way, i can always muster up a comment: i am one of those (rare, i guess?) moms who never remembers about mothers day (when? next sunday? or the following? it IS?) and i don’t care about celebrating… don’t know why, but i’m the same about other minor “holidays” (valentines, etc). my husband DOES enjoy marking events like this more than i do, so i’ve received little things in past years (a manicure gift certificate last year). i DO try to remember to gift him with something on Father’s Day, and to have our daughter make him a card since he enjoys it.
Beth | May 13th, 2012 at 4:28 pm
Swistle, I loved your line at the end of your post on your personal blog, it made me laugh. Happy Mother’s Day!
Libby | May 13th, 2012 at 4:46 pm
That sounds like an EXCELLENT Mother’s Day. I vote you work a champagne cocktail in there somewhere. Or whatever kind of cocktail you want.
Enjoy your alone time!
Clarabella | May 13th, 2012 at 7:18 pm
We made my mom a painting with the kids’ handprints. I get to not make the meals-or clean them up-all day today. I’m also looking at new blenders since I just killed the cheapy one I had, so being able to add $25 to my blender budget would be awfully nice!
Beth | May 13th, 2012 at 7:20 pm
i asked my 9-month old for flowers, and he totally came through!
beyond | May 14th, 2012 at 5:54 am
I am so intrigued by Choffy! Tell me more! Like, can you really use it to REPLACE coffee as far as the wake-up-in-the-morning factor goes, and will I stil have caffeine withdrawals? I love coffee, but this sounds like a fun alternative.
beth c | May 18th, 2012 at 3:00 am
Beth C.- Choffy doesn’t have enough caffeine to replace coffee (I think I remember reading on the site that it has as much caffeine as decaf—that is, small trace amounts), but it claims to have other elements that cause a perky alert feeling. I use it when I would realllllly like to have coffee but it’s too late in the day, or when I’m trying to cut down on caffeine but still want more hot drink. I also mix it with coffee to make the coffee go further.
Swistle | May 18th, 2012 at 9:27 am
Hmmmm… Very interesting…I like the idea of an afternoon pick-me-up. Sounds like grown-up hot cocoa! I think I’ll have to try it.
Beth C | May 18th, 2012 at 2:05 pm