Ahh … Christmas. It's one of the few days out of the year where we get to sit back, relax, and enjoy quality time with our family. Quality time that usually begins at the earliest possible hour because the kids are dying to rush to the tree and get their hands on their presents, but still, quality time. And while most moms will probably agree that the holiday is more about our kids than anyone else, we're just as excited as they are to find something special under the tree on Christmas morning.
But to be honest, plenty of moms are totally over sweaters, jewelry, kitchen gadgets, and the like.
It's a struggle to find the perfect gift for the woman who does so much for the family all year long. But while most moms will appreciate anything they get (seriously, a mom will sob over a literal rock if it's gift-wrapped and presented with love by her 3-year-old), if they're being completely honest sometimes the same old gifts each year get a little boring. Things like sweaters, jewelry, perfume, lotions (so many lotions!), candles, and the latest kitchen gadgets are lovely, but the best gifts don't necessarily come from a store.
More from CafeMom: 5 Homemade Toys That Make Awesome Gifts
So this year put away that credit card and breathe a sigh of relief over avoiding the mob scene known as the mall in December. We've got amazing, non-material gift ideas for mom this year that are guaranteed to make her face light up even brighter than the lights on the Christmas tree.
Spa retreat
Instead of giving mom a basket of fancy bath and body products, treat her to a day at the spa instead. Present her with a gift certificate that she can redeem for a massage, facial, manicure, pedicure — whatever her pleasure. Nothing says "I love you" like a day of pampering.
Weekend of solitude
I received this a couple years back, and to this day, it's the best gift I've ever gotten. My husband and son checked me into a hotel in a quaint seaside town for the weekend. I shopped, slept, read, watched movies, ate, and drank wine. And I didn't have to talk to a soul. It was magical.
Day to be lazy
Write out a cute little card informing mom that she's going to be given a day off in the near future to do nothing but lay on the couch all day and watch chick flicks. She'll be so thrilled at the thought, she'll weep.
Hall pass
No, not that kind of hall pass. Make her up a little coupon booklet that gets her out of having to do all the things she normally takes care of on a daily basis. Whether it be laundry, dishes, carpooling, or whatever — giving mom a break here and there is a wonderful gift.
Cleaning service
Even if it's only a one-time thing — hiring someone to deep clean the house from top to bottom is a gift you really can't put a price on.
Something from the heart
Like a video message from the kids telling mom all the reasons why they love and appreciate her. Or even a sweet, hand-written card will touch her heart in a way no material present can.
A date night
Pick a date in the near future and get a babysitter lined up. Then make a cute little invitation asking mom to go out for a night on the town — just the two of you. Trust me, simply taking it upon yourself to get the babysitter is a gift in itself.
Personal chef
Like the cleaning service, this can even be a one-time deal. Hire someone to come in and take the weight off her shoulders for a night (or more if you can swing it). Oh — and make sure they do the dishes too!
Time with a friend
Between work and family, sometimes mom’s friendships get put on the back burner. Call up her bestie and set up a lunch date, then surprise her with a card bearing the date and time.
Framed kid art
Those scribbles are more valuable to her than a Van Gogh. Find one she keeps on the fridge because she loves it so, or make a new creation and frame it so she can cherish it always.
List of the family’s favorite recipes
Make her life so much easier (and make her feel better about her cooking skills) by writing out a list of things everyone in the family is willing to eat. Not only will it help her when cooking dinners each week, but she can also hold everyone to their word. (Meatloaf's on the list — eat up!)
Family photos
Hire a professional or invest in a selfie stick, but all moms want more pictures of the entire family. Make it happen and win Christmas for sure.
Breakfast in bed
Don’t knock this classic gift. A handmade card telling mom she can cash in on a warm breakfast without having to leave her comforter will be much appreciated on a cold February morning.
A hug
If your kids are old enough that they're now too cool to give mom a hug at drop-off, chances are they're less affectionate all around. Moms with clingy toddlers might not believe it, but the time will come when they'll miss the constant snuggles. A great big hug from a big kid is an awesome gift.
