10 ways to surprise mom this Mother’s Day without even leaving the house
You might not be able to get to your mom's for Mother's Day this year. Don't fret. There are several things you can do to make this a memorable day for her.
Set up a video chat
Try getting the whole family together on Zoom for a virtual Mother's Day party. It might not be the same as the yearly brunch, but it's the thought that counts here.
Send her a meal
Find out which restaurants are doing "contactless delivery" in your mom's neighborhood, and send her a meal so she doesn't have to cook.
Buy a gift from Amazon
While the gift might not get to her in time, Amazon has a lot of options for both thoughtful and practical gifts for Mother's Day — especially if they're much-needed household items she could use during the pandemic.
Watch a movie over FaceTime
If a Zoom party isn't in the cards, how about FaceTime? You can even suggest watching a movie together, whether you find one on TV, rent a video on demand or play a DVD you both have on hand.
Send flowers
Depending on the area, some florists are open and making contactless deliveries. Call around and see if any are taking orders for Mother's Day. Your mom will appreciate the sentiment.
Create a Hallmark eCard
When you don't want to leave the house to browse for a greeting card, check out the selection at hallmarkecards.com. You're bound to find a lovely card perfect for the occasion.
Plan a future dream trip together
There's no time like the present to spend time researching must-see destinations and events, like the Northern Lights in Alaska. Call her up and do some research together to plan a dream vacation. The travel industry could use a boost when things get up and running again, and your mom might love the idea of spending time with you doing something fun and unique.
Take a virtual museum tour
The lions outside the Art Institute of Chicago might be masked up, and the museum might be closed to visitors right now, but you can always take a virtual tour with mom. Try FaceTiming on your phone, and use your computer to get check out the virtual offerings on the museum website at artic.edu/visit-us-virtually.
Arrange for groceries to be delivered
Having your mom's weekly groceries paid for and delivered is a nice way to show how much you care. Check for Instacart options near her home. And remember to throw in a little sweet treat for her special day.
Let her rest
Whether you live with your mom or you have been checking in regularly throughout the pandemic, telling her to take some time for a long, uninterrupted nap might be just the thing she needs to throw all her cares away for a time, rest and recharge.

