Celebrating Mother’s Day at home is a much quieter way to allow Mom to enjoy a holiday that honors her. The idea of going to an overcrowded restaurant for a meal prepared and served by employees who are most likely swamped and exhausted doesn’t seem like much of a celebration to me. So how do you celebrate Mother’s Day without all the crowds and long wait times? Spending time with Mom on Mother’s Day should be an enjoyable experience. We have some ideas on how to do that.
Let’s start with some of Mom’s favorites. Most of us have at least a few items that were from our childhood or remind us of those years. Ask about those items. They may be simple kitchen tools, linens, decor items, or photos. What do you or your Mom have that triggers childhood memories? Perhaps a favorite recipe you can prepare together.
Dig into your kitchen cupboards and look for those vintage Pyrex bowls your mom passed down when you moved into your own place. Or the kitchen gadgets you use that Grandma passed on when she taught you how to use them. Whip up a favorite dish using those gadgets and revel in creating a favorite dish using the same tools your mom or grandma used.
Next head to the linen closet. Many of us have either a tablecloth hiding in a long-forgotten closet or a set of cloth napkins perhaps given to us as a wedding gift that we never use. I know I have what’s left of a set of everyday china that my grandmother used daily. Bring out seldom-used things like table runners, doilies, and candlesticks. The stuff we used to “save for good”.
Most of us have at least a few of these items lying around the house, forgotten and unused. Now is a great time to gather these up and set the table for a special Mother’s Day meal without all the hassle of an overcrowded restaurant, cranky waiter, and overpriced marginal food. Even if we have to cook our own dinner, spending time at home with the ones closest to us and enjoying the use of our “good” dishes and linens can make for a great meal. Using those vintage hand-me-down table fineries is a great way to remember past generations and the meals shared with loved ones.
While you’re picking up groceries, grab a bouquet of flowers for the table. Pull out an old vase or create a quick centerpiece for the table. And while you’re dressing the table for success, don’t forget to wear something special yourself. There’s no reason you can’t wear your celebratory jewelry or outfit, even if you’re celebrating at home.
So pull out your best vintage and celebrate Mother’s Day at home this year. Make it a day to remember.
