How to make mother happy

Not all moms are the same. They like and do different things. Some, gasp, don’t love the idea of flowers and chocolates for Mother’s Day on Sunday, May 12.

Consider these alternative gifts, many based on testimonials from actual moms.

PAMPER, PAMPER, PAMPER

There’s a zillion ways to pamper mom. There’s breakfast in bed, of course, and homemade coupon books offering to do some of her least favorite chores, or joining her on something she loves but you don’t. If you’re looking for a self-care something, this hair tool is pricy but there’s little it can’t do. There are styler-dryer Dyson Airwrap sets for straight to wavy, and curly to coily hair. All avoid extreme heat. So many attachments. So little time. $599.99. Widely available.

SERVE UP SOME SERVICE

Still in the pamper mom search? Gift cards for mani-pedis, a spa day or a spa weekend may be greatly appreciated. How about cleaning out the garage or pantry without complaint? Not happening? Re-pot some plants, clean up the garden or put in a bunch of new annuals to add color. Try a gift card for car detailing, and an offer to go get it done so she doesn’t have to. Better yet, kids, clean mom’s car inside and out for free. Do a good job.

SPEAKING OF GARDENS

Consider a swing through a garden center or three so mom can pick out whatever she wants. Again, with no grumbling. Alternatively, go yourself and bring home flats full of her favorites. Offer to do her indoor chores for a week so she can spend more time in the garden.

Gift her some new outdoor containers or fancy indoor pots.

FOR OUTDOORSY, ACTIVE MOM

Whether mom is a runner, hiker or camper, think gear. There’s so much tech in gear and she may not be completely up to date. If that’s not important, there’s plenty of just regular stuff, too. Perhaps a LifeStraw water filter bottle. $44.95. Check out the Altra Lone Peak trail shoes. $140. A fancy tent or camp stove, perhaps. High performance shorts and matching tops. A new bicycle? The possibilities are endless.

LET HER CLAIM THE DAY

Mother’s Day is usually about togetherness. What if mom wants to go it alone? Easier said than done for some families. If doable, send her somewhere on the actual day, rather than a future one, where for 24 hours her every need and desire will be anticipate and met. Massage, delicious food, alone time in a calming, private outdoor spot.