Just what New Jersey moms really want as a Mother’s Day gift

Here’s a reminder that Mother’s Day is coming up on Sunday May 14th because I already know quite a few people who have forgotten and are now scrambling to find a gift for their mom and/or spouse.

And I do not judge. Father’s Day is also creeping up on us! Obviously, there is nothing wrong with some flowers and a dinner reservation to celebrate all the moms out there. But if you want to think outside the box and surprise your mom with something else, there are plenty of “gifts” you can give without touching your wallet.

Moms don’t really want to be asked what kind of “gift” they want. We have a million other things going on in our brains, and it might not be the last thing on our minds, but it’s not something we want to be particularly upset about a few days ahead.

But this year, I’ve made sure to get an answer when my husband asks what I want. As a mom of a 2 year old and also 2 months away from giving birth again all I want is a nap. I would even take an hour to lie down and rest.

be seen? It doesn’t break the bank at all.

I decided to ask my friends, family, co-workers, and listeners to see what answers they came up with and thought these ideas might help you, too.

(By the way, this is also for Father’s Day. I’m not taking anything away from the hardworking dads out there either. And that’s a big shout out to my dad and husband.)

Breakfast in bed

If the wife is not in the mood to go to breakfast/lunch, don’t complain, it saves you money! Making breakfast at home and bringing it to her in bed, especially if the kids are old enough to help, makes it even more special.

making coffee

If breakfast is too much or she just doesn’t want a full meal, a cup of coffee prepared and ready to go will set her in a good mood for the rest of the day.

time alone

In between all the hustle and bustle of everyday life, sometimes some quiet time alone can help reset our minds and bodies for the next 364 days. Take the kids outside for the day so Mom can relax on her own.

Complete home chores

Most families use Sundays as cleaning day. Instead of skipping it or changing the day of the week, divide the to-do list among the rest of the family and let Mom take the day off. This includes the amount of laundry that needs to be done. And if you don’t fold the clothes properly, we’ll fix it the next day anyway.

Grocery bought

There’s nothing like a fully stocked fridge when you’re not the one running down every aisle at the supermarket to feed the family. Again, allow your mom to take the day off from shopping unless it’s something she can handle.

Professional massage/spa day

It might cost you and your kids, but believe me, every mom needs a little spa day from time to time, and New Jersey has some great places to visit for exactly this occasion.

SoJo Spa Club in Edgewater

The Spa at The Heldrich in New Brunswick

No parties

This is rare, but important. Not only was a friend of mine invited to her first Eucharist celebration on Mother’s Day, but one of her children was also invited to a birthday party. Moms, keep in mind that other moms might not want to spend their special day going to parties (some might be and that’s all fine too!).

All in all, when you’re really stuck in a rut, us moms just want to be with our families and there’s nothing wrong with some flowers (and you can even add chocolate) to show your appreciation for your mom or wife. But just remember, a nap doesn’t cost anything….

happy Mother’s Day!

The above post reflects the thoughts and observations of New Jersey 101.5 Morning Show Producer Christine. Any opinions expressed are her own.

Questions, corrections or comments? Email Producer Kristen at [email protected] or follow her on Instagram.