Mother’s Day is this weekend and for the first time in several years, I will not be on a soccer field (yippee!). I can’t begin to tell you how excited that makes me feel.

For all of you soccer / softball / baseball / football / lacrosse / cheerleading / track / swim / volleyball / skating / gymnastics / rugby / equestrian / bmx / hockey / golf / tennis / band moms (sorry if I forgot any) who have had the unfortunate experience of having an event on Mother’s Day weekend, I’m sure you understand my excitement. Normally, on the one day meant for us to relax and be pampered, we’re usually stressed. We most likely have to wake up early, and of course, it’s inevitable that one of our children will not be able to find some part of his or her uniform and/or equipment. Not to mention, we’ll undoubtedly be stuck on a hot, breezeless field swatting gnats and mosquitoes all day (unless your child participates in an indoor activity or you do not live in Florida in which case, be thankful – very thankful).

We only have one day out of the whole entire year dedicated to us. One! That’s one out of 365 days for all you math people out there. Who wants to spend that one day doing what we have to do every other day? Sorry but kids, husbands, and significant others don’t get to vote, here.

Supposedly, this one day is our day to relax and do whatever we want. I know, I know; if we’re lucky, we may get a few hours to relax. Possibly breakfast in bed – which we love, as long as we’re not woken up at the crack of dawn by the sound of the smoke detector or left to clean up the mess in the kitchen which includes nearly every single pot, pan, and kitchen utensil. In which case, cards are good.

We love cards. Especially the homemade ones. Hint to all the dads and significant others out there, we love the cards just like the ones you receive on Father’s Day, with our kids’ hands and footprints dipped in finger paint and stamped on construction paper. Simply slap a cute picture on there and let our children sign it. We’ll love it! Be sure to include the date on the back so we can have it as a keepsake.

Also, lunch and dinner are good, again, as long as we don’t have to do the clean-up. We don’t need expensive gifts, although I’ve never known a mom who turned one down. But don’t purchase a vacuum cleaner or any other household item (unless the mother in your life really wants one).

Gift cards are great, especially if they include food and some type of pampering (i.e., a massage). Homemade gift cards from older kids are great, too – as long as they’re legit. If you give me a gift card that says you’ll do the dishes and I try to redeem it, don’t tell me I can use it only on Fridays or some other lame excuse.

A priceless gift that all moms love is a quiet, peaceful house. Dads and significant others, take the kids out to the beach or park. Have lunch, go bowling, go see a movie. The kids will love spending an entire day with you. Let the mom in your life veg out and watch chick-flicks all day with a nice glass of wine (Moms, no one will judge you if you drink before noon on this day).

Remember, Mother’s Day is the one day where every mother, and those fulfilling the role, should be made to feel special. Most of us don’t want or need anything except maybe a little peace and quiet but feel free to share this post with the loves of your life who may need a few ideas on how to help you make the most out of your special day.

I wish all of you amazing moms out there a wonderful Mother’s Day and for those of you stuck doing the “mom” thing on your day off, I’m sorry. I’ll be sure to have a cocktail or two in your honor!