Last-minute magic: Here's what you need

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Unplugged Perspective

Hey, did you know Mother’s Day is only three days away? Yeah, it snuck up on me too! I always think it's later in May than it actually is. It’s the second Sunday of the month, and this year it’s coming up fast.

The point is, there may be some dads out there still trying to figure out what to get for Mother’s Day. Not me, of course, but other dads. (My wife reads these emails, so I need her to think everything is under control.)

Last year, I tried the flower pots with fingerprint bugs and flowers that I suggested a couple of weeks ago. Along with that last-minute craft, I stayed up late and cleaned the house while the kids and their mom slept. Cleaning the house isn’t anything special, but doing it as a surprise was a little touch that meant more than usual.

And that’s what we should be aiming for on Mother’s Day. Not trying to impress with something fancy, but showing appreciation and love by recognizing how much she means to us. If you can involve your kids in whatever gift you’re planning, it helps teach them those values, too.

So, whether you've got everything planned out or you're scrambling like some of us might be, remember that thoughtfulness counts more than perfection. Here's to all the amazing moms in our lives!

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The Unplugged Idea: Last-minute Mother’s Day Ideas

If you're still putting together a plan, here are some easy but meaningful ways to make Mother's Day special:

Photo Book: Order a photo book from Walgreens, CVS, or Walmart. Between all three stores, there are over 22,000 locations in the US. There’s bound to be one near you. Prices range from $6.99 to $9.99, and most can do same-day pickup, so you still have time.

Give Her Time Alone: Take the kids out so mom can relax at home, whether that means napping, watching TV, or enjoying a favorite hobby. Or keep the kids at home and let her go out with friends, go shopping, or just sit at a coffee shop.

Video Message from the Kids: Record a quick video of the kids sharing why they love their mom and what they love doing with her. It's simple but meaningful. Use these simple video message prompts to help kids share their thoughts about mom.

Homemade Card + Gift: Have the kids make a card, and pair it with something small, like flowers or a simple craft they can help with.

DIY Coupon Book: Help the kids create a coupon book for mom with options like "One Hug," "Breakfast in Bed," or "Movie Night Pick." See below for our printable coupon idea list.

Homemade Spa Day: Turn your bathroom into a spa with candles, calming music, and a warm bath ready for mom. Even a 15-minute escape can be a gift.

Breakfast in Bed or Special Meal: The classic Mother's Day tradition! Keep it simple with her favorite breakfast foods or order takeout from her favorite restaurant. The key is that she doesn't have to cook or clean up (Seriously, don’t let her clean up!).

Family Collaboration Gift: If you have siblings or other family members who want to contribute, consider a group gift like a gift card to her favorite store, a subscription service she'd enjoy, or pooling resources for something she's been wanting.

Memory Jar: Have family members write down favorite memories with mom on small pieces of paper. Place them in a decorated jar for her to read whenever she needs a pick-me-up.

Unplugged Wrapped Up

Remember, the best gifts show thoughtfulness rather than extravagance. Most moms just want to feel appreciated and loved. Sometimes the simplest gestures make the biggest impact. Whatever you choose, involving the kids in the process teaches them the value of gratitude and celebrating the important people in our lives.

Until next week,

-Ted

P.S. If you try any of these ideas, I’d love to hear how it went. Just hit reply and let me know. Your stories make this community even better.

P.P.S. Know a dad who could use a little help this Mother’s Day? Forward this email to him. He’ll thank you later.