How is it possible, that after all this time, small household appliances are still being flogged as your mum’s heart’s greatest desire?
I conducted a very informal survey with some mum friends and I can assure you that not a single one of them was hoping to unwrap a new set of saucepans or another framed photo of your mug this year. Or any year.
We know what your face looks like, we made it for goodness sake. And the last set of saucepans came with a lifetime guarantee.
Mother’s Day doesn’t have to cost the earth and it doesn’t have to be celebrated with store-bought gifts.
I’ve actually come up with a short list of inexpensive if not completely free ideas for next year. You’re welcome.
Most mums I know just want to be heard. The first time.
So next year, on Mother’s Day, how about brushing your teeth the first time we ask? Better yet, just brush your teeth without being asked at all.
Which brings me to my second suggestion.
Give mum a break from the mental load and think about your own stuff for 24 hours. This is a good one because not only are you meeting your own needs, you’re meeting hers too. Win-win.
We also want to be seen. Not for all of the things we do for our children and families, but for who we actually are.
This year, for the grand total of $10, my girls bought me a month-long subscription to one of my all-time favourite feminist authors’ Patreon.
Although the monetary value of this gift is small, the impact of a present that shows me my kids know me beyond just what I do for them is priceless.
Finally, and this one goes without saying, the greatest gift for all women, on any day of the year, is full and unequivocal autonomy of their own lives and bodies.
