Research Shows This Is What Mom Really Wants for Mother’s Day

Unless mom really wants a walleye for Mother's Day (doubtful - but I can't rule this out altogether) there is always a certain level of confusion, doubt, despair and fear about what to get your favorite mom. Somehow, a drugstore-purchased Hallmark card just doesn't cut it. Believe me, I've had my share of cards and flowers from the local grocery store. Clothing? I wouldn't begin to know what she wants. Jewelry? On paper yes, but that usually comes with a much bigger price tag.

So I was curious to see a survey at Parents.com that conducted a little research to investigate what your mother might REALLY want this year, and here were the top answers:

• Sleep - 30%
• A day off or alone time - 30%
• A spa day or massage - 11%
• A vacation - 7%
• A night or weekend alone in a hotel - 5%
• A clean home - 2%
• Recognition and appreciation - 2%
• Someone else making breakfast/breakfast in bed - 2%

Sleep and "alone-time" at the top of the list? Yep. Mom just wants a break - that's more important than an Amazon delivery or knickknacks she'll pretend to adore and then quietly stash in a drawer. The best gift may be the easiest: you watch the kids and the dog. Carve out some quality time where mom can do whatever she wants for a day, or better yet, a getaway or "stay-cation"?

Under the heading of "experiences resonate better than things" I took my wife out to a nice dinner, followed by seeing a play she was interested in. I don't have the answer key, and your results may vary, but planning a special meal, either homemade or at a local establishment might go a long way. Recently we had VERY good experiences at the Apostle Supper Club and their rotating restaurant with amazing harbor views - and at the other end of the spectrum, a festival of pie at The Rustic Inn Cafe up in Castle Danger.

A few more suggestions:

If you're going to get mom a card, consider a creative card, like the pop-up card above available at Amazon.

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For only $10 you can pick up a personalized "fill-in-the-blanks" journal that personalizes the experience and your affection for mom. Again, something different and it won't break the bank.

I'm always a fan of buying local - that would absolutely be my first choice. Support local stores wherever you can. But if you're frantic, here is a link for last-minute items that will arrive from Amazon by Sunday. Not my first choice but it beats a mad dash to the local CVS or Walgreen's Saturday night.

Your mother is unique and one-of-a-kind. With a little creativity you can find a gift, a gesture that rewards her with what she really wants this year: an experience, more sleep or a badly-needed day off for the hardest working mother in your life!