1. Bicycle Picnic Trip: Dust off the bikes, strap on the helmets and go bike riding to a favorite park to picnic for the day. Dad: Buckets of takeout are totally OK!
2. Day trip to a nearby lake for a wiener roast or picnic
3. Take mom out for a family brunch then a leisurely walk along the riverbank. Choose a restaurant that takes reservations and make sure to have one set a few days beforehand otherwise it’s chaos!
4. Nature hike & picnic
5. Family drive in the country, picnic (watch for tucked away privately owned greenhouses and little antique stands that are open, let mom take all the time she wants poking around). This was always my favorite since we spent hours together in the vehicle chatting up a storm…wouldn’t be suitable with smaller children since the cooped-up time can make youngsters restless and cranky. Teens: leave the cell phones at home.
6. Extended family & friends BBQ get together (remember: the moms aren’t allowed to cook OR cleanup)
7. Family bowling tournament (it’s a hoot–really!)
8. Family softball or soccer game & BBQ (this works with extended family & friends)
9. Neighborhood Block Party: This was one of the most memorable Mother’s Days when I was younger…a few dads pulled out BBQs and had hot dogs and burgers sizzling on the grill, kids racing around and moms socializing and enjoying the visit. Lots of laughing, wine and food. We still talk about that block party 30 years later! Times are maybe different now, but for neighbors that are well acquainted with each other–this is a blast and the moms are relaxed and enjoy the social time.
10. Afternoon Tea Party: No TV, no iPods, no cell phones, no distractions. Just a big family gathering around the kitchen table with fancy cupcakes or mom’s favorite cake, snacks and drinks. Maybe some card games or mom’s favorite board game too.
