Flowers are nice, and taking her to brunch is a given, but in addition to your go-to gifts this year, Penobscot Bay Pilot has five inspired ways to celebrate the mother in your life on Sunday, May 13.

The Pampered Gift

There are so many ways you can give her a gift of self care that she would never buy for herself around the Midcoast.  From massages, to facials to spas and skincare products, there are a number of local businesses you can buy gift certificates from (also supporting local economies).  Perhaps some comfy sleepwear or check out some of the businesses that offered women a free spa day this past weekend, May 5 for more inspired ideas to pamper your mamma.

Give Her The Day Off

First off: let her sleep in. Then, what Mom doesn’t love a full breakfast in bed that you clean up afterward? Or an entire day where you do the dishes, laundry, buy gourmet snack and do the housework unasked? A day where you make the arrangements for a family gathering or barbecue and every time she tries to jump in and help, give her the “oh no you don’t this is your day” stern face. You can also be her administrative assistant and show her how to use social media, protect her information on Facebook or teach her how to use some new app.

Do Something With Her that She Loves

Maybe she’s always tried to get you to do yoga with her and you were like, “that’s OK, I’ll pass.” This is the day to surprise her and try something she loves to do. You can also bring her to the annual Union wineries event to celebrate Mother’s Day with wine and spirit tastings, chocolate and lovely views of the properties.

Something Sentimental

Make her something with your own hands: a card, a terrarium, a batch of cupcakes or a homebrewed beer! Some of the most creative handmade gift ideas come from Etsy and these personalized cuff bracelets and stackable name rings are a great gift for her. Or, buy custom face magnets of your family. Check out Maine Etsy team’s wonderful handmade gift ideas, which supports local artists.

The “Take A Chance” Adventure

Back on April 23, we posted an article on “Take A Chance Day” and if your mom is the more adventurous type who might be convinced to jump out of a plane, that’s a good place to start. There are other local experiences that feed the spirit and creative soul as well such as cooking classes, paint nights or buy her a book and treat her to cake.

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com