Instead of Brunch

I woke up today feeling really glad I didn't need to go out to a Mother's Day brunch. I don't know who got the idea that moms are supposed to do that, when there are so many better ways to celebrate mothers than putting them into a crowded restaurant with kids who are restless throughout the meal. 

I don't mean to be grouchy about it, and if you love going to brunch with your family, that's wonderful. I've just had more than my share at this point--and prefer something else.

What do I think families with younger children might do instead? Something to give Mom a day-long vacation, so calling on partners to make this work:

1. Before Mother's Day, teach kids to sort clothes and do laundry so they can do it Mother's Day weekend.

2. Again, before the holiday, teach children to make breakfast (even if it's pouring cereal into a bowl).

3. Pick up the best coffee your neighborhood has to offer.

4. Then take a family trip to Dairy Queen or any other ice cream place you like.

5. Take the dog and kids to your favorite park and let them run around with each other.

6. Order take-out. 

7. See a movie.

8. Depending on where you live, rent a pool for the afternoon via Swimply and pack a lunch.

9. Take an overnight weekend trip where the kids are entertained by professionals and you can do whatever you want.

10. Get commitments from grandparents for specific dates for babysitting. Grandparents will love it, I promise you.

My favorite Mother's Day moment ever? The day my son came home after spending four months in Israel. It was two days after Mother's Day; it had been a really long four months! And I was beyond ecstatic to see him.

My other favorite Mother's Day moments had nothing to do with the day itself. They were about watching my son grow up, whether it meant walking, talking, going to Kindergarten, being the central character in a play, watching him learn to swim, play saxophone, or just have fun with his friends.

I also loved watching him blossom in college and beyond, and meet the love of his life, who I love too. Last year, we got to meet our new grandchild, and I decided THAT'S more fun than anything I could have imagined.

Which brings me to all the mothers being celebrated today. I just want to tell you there's something really cool you can look forward to when your kids are grown.

But. 

Meanwhile.

Get your kids to do your laundry. Seriously.