My tricks for getting what you really want on Mother's Day

"Ask for the sleep in. Stay delulu Mums. It might happen."

If you ask most mums what we want for Mother's Day this year they’ll tell you ‘oh anything the kids give me is perfect!’ but that’s because we don’t want to deal with hurt feelings - the kids' and ours.

What we really want is not going to happen.

A full night's sleep followed by casual wake up and coffee in bed is just not on the cards. We all know it. Unless you’re really, really lucky.

So if you’re in a position where you need to shop for a mum or if you’re unsure of what to ask for, I’ve compiled a list of realistic gift options for you. Use at your will.

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How to get what you want on Mother's Day

My first suggestion is: Ask for the sleep in. Stay delulu Mums. It might happen.

Go the extra mile and ask for coffee in bed. Even if this wish doesn’t come true you’ll look pretty virtuous asking for non-material things so it’s a win-win.

Politely request/demand some time alone. Oh yes I went there. Yes it’s ok for you to go spend time alone on Mother's Day. No that doesn’t mean you don’t love and appreciate your family. Some would argue you’re a better mum when you’ve filled your cup and this is your day!

Pretend you want to work out, or actually work out. Head to the library and browse, get a coffee and mosey around the shops. Think big, babes.

Emma Kenney 'splurging' on herself. Image: Supplied

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Full reign over television

You could also do something that might feel impossible - a nice lunch or dinner out together. No matter what everyone's sports and social schedules are.

I’m going to need you to work to your children's age here. If you have toddlers a hatted restaurant in the city is probably not going to work but you could get some fish and chips and sit on a beach somewhere with a purse wine! I

If you have adult children you’d have better luck at a fancy restaurant and will even enjoy some entertainment as they pretend they intended on paying. Hey look at that! Dinner and a show!

A clean house - no housework for the day - is the ultimate gift. This is not a gift, really, but this is the bare minimum - which often doesn't get done sans bickering.But if you ask today they really do have to provide it.

I love flowers, but can rarely justify the expense. So make your fam pay. Flowers are beautiful, they brighten your day and your home. Also, they can be super affordable and can be picked when budgets are low. Taking a walk to find flowers is also a good way for Dad and kids to give you 15 minutes alone. See point 2.

And this one is GOLD: ask for FULL REIGN over the TV. NO Peppa Pig. Watch Handmaid's Tale in peace with snacks of your choosing set out just for you.

Comfy clothes that reflect how you feel are also a winner. Image: Angus the Label

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Finally, I always really and truly appreciate a a card from Dad/partner/friend/own mum. This one is non-negotiable. If you have a friend who is a single or solo mum, please take note that a simple text message would mean the world.

Being a mum is the best thing in the world and really the kids themselves are the gifts however it’s so nice to be acknowledged on Mother's Day. Mums try so hard to be good at this gig, and sure we don’t always get it right, but asking your wife, mum or mum friends what they hope for - or better, speaking up for yourself - will get you what you really need on the day.

Originally published as My tricks for getting what you really want on Mother's Day