Mother’s Day is with us again very soon. How did that happen? Didn’t we just do Mother’s Day? Or was it Christmas or her birthday?

There is probably a grandmother in your life – your mother or your sister or, perhaps, your wife. And yes, you want to show her your love and give her recognition, but what can you do?

Grandmothers Can Be Difficult

Although there is a designated Grandparents’ Day some time in the early autumn, it’s Mother’s Day when it seems right to pull out the stops.

But it gets harder and harder to buy anything for a grandmother. They have everything and are busy down-sizing the things they have. You won’t be appreciated if you add to the clutter.

The Old Ways

Of course, some will say you can’t go wrong with the traditional presents. A thoughtful card, some beautiful flowers (the season is just right) or a lovely box of chocolates. Each is easy and no grandmother will complain.

And yet these “oldies and goodies” just aren’t remotely original. You want to do something better. Something to remember.

Getting the Children in on the Act

One solution is to enlist the help of the grandchildren. Get them to make a card, perhaps with a drawing – or even write a poem or little letter if they are old enough. This sort of thing will always touch the heart of a grandmother.

Some children will duly join in the task, although you may be the unlucky parent whose reluctant child writes, “Dear Granny, Happy Mother’s Day, luv, Johnny,” or words to that effect.

It becomes too late to do much about it, but grandma will certainly know that it was done as perfunctorily as possible.

Or you may get something from the heart that isn’t quite right. I received a birthday card a few years ago from my young grandson, which he had decided to decorate with stickers.

The latter were of all kinds of vehicles, such as cars, trucks, fire engines – and quite a few ambulances! Happy birthday, Granny.

I knew, at least, that his mother had not planned it that way.

Experience Presents

Often, the best present for a grandmother – at any time of year – is the new and unexpected experience. Take her out somewhere as a surprise treat!

If you have the money and time, take her away for a day or two. But even a few hours out to some place she likes – whether to a new restaurant, a nearby garden or a concert – would be well appreciated.

If, by unfortunate chance of ill health, she is unable to leave the house, think of what ­­– or who – you could bring in. Perhaps a fancy meal, whether organised by a caterer or simply by yourself and siblings.

Or arrange for a visit from an old friend she is not expecting. Or something else she would never imagine – even a clown. Nothing like a good laugh.

Books

Personally, I find books to be a wonderful present. Does she like to read? If so, keep an eye on her reading tastes and buy her the latest book in her favourite genre. Books don’t feel so much like clutter – and can be passed on to friends – and you could also download a book to her e-reader.

And if all else fails, may I be mildly immodest and suggest that my own book, Celebrating Grandmothers, would fit the moment with perfection. It is a book of reflections from other grandmothers about the role, and has been very highly reviewed. And the title says it all.

Something to Remember

What you want is something that will be remembered. Something new and different. You’d probably come up with a wealth of ideas yourself if you just give it a try.

What sort of Mother’s Day presents do you love to receive? Please share the story behind your most favourite Mother’s Day gift, and why you remember it, in the comments below.