At the risk of sounding cliché, here at yoyomama we really believe every day should be “Mother’s Day.” The work you mums put in taking care of your brood, whether you’re at home, at work, or a bit of both, is impressive and inspiring – we know, because we’re right there with you. Now Mother’s Day may have turned into the classic “Hallmark Holiday” – an occasion where gift lists take over and expectations run amok – but it doesn’t have to be all about the store-bought presents (unless, of course, it’s the perfect excuse for that new espresso machine or Tiffany bauble you’ve been eyeing!)

Here’s how a few of us yoyos love to spend the holiday, and a few suggestions for how to celebrate your special day – sans the piggy-bank pressure:

For yoyo writer Karma, Mother’s Day is two-fold: 1) spending time with her wee one and family, and, 2) carving out a few hours of “me” time to enjoy a (peaceful) manicure, a (peaceful) latte with a great book, or a (peaceful) solo stroll. See a trend here?

Yoyo writer Erin is new to Mother’s Day (this will be her second celebration), and has a short but sweet wish list this year – it’s all about a nap, a foot massage, and a picnic in the park as a family. Oh, and a repeat of last year’s fave food roundup for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, so she can stay out of the kitchen!

And Annemarie, yoyomama’s fearless leader, has made Mother’s Day a traditional one – spending it with her kids and her own Mum. They enjoy a multi-generational meal, courtesy of the Dads, and Annemarie makes sure to spend one-on-one time with each of her girls. We especially love the idea of the Dads being in charge of the meal…as long as at least one of them can actually cook!

• Have a family breakfast in bed day: Your little ones can work hard at making the perfect Mother’s Day brunch…at home! Think strawberry pancakes with whipped cream and syrup, crispy bacon, and never-ending coffee…all made with love.

• Encourage homemade: There’s nothing like a card or gift made just for you by your wee ones – beat that, Hallmark! You’ll cherish your one-of-a-kind gift for years to come.

• Give back: Choose a charity, and ask for a gift that will benefit others. Like the Sick Kids Get Better Gifts, where $20 buys a rocking chair for mums to soothe their little ones while in hospital.

• Make it a surprise: Tell the kids ahead of time you’d love them to plan a surprise day for you – anything they think you’d love. Now you may end up at an indoor play gym or a kid-friendly movie, but it’s still time spent with your kiddos. Which really is the best way to celebrate being a mum, and beats a bracelet any day. Don’t you agree?

Happy Mother’s Day!

Yo, mama! What are your favourite Mother’s Day traditions? Feel free to share them below this article on our site.