6 Things You Should Tell Your Mum This Mother’s Day (But Probably Won’t)

This Mother’s Day, make sure you get in touch with Mum. You’re a grownup now. That doesn’t mean you have to spend $100 on flowers, but it does mean a “Happy Mother’s Day” isn’t going to cut it any more. Start a dialogue. Here are a few ideas.

1.“Thanks for putting up with me when I was a kid.”

Now that I’m older, I look at mothers dealing with their children in supermarkets, and it doesn’t look even slightly fun. Sorry about those tantrums I threw. While we’re at it; I’m sorry for the stretchmarks, the sleepless nights, for throwing up on the carpet, for breaking your things, and for drawing on the walls. The list goes on.

In fact, thanks for putting up with me every single day since I was born. This motherly love thing must be pretty strong.

2. “I actually enjoy teaching you how to use technology.”

I like to make a big deal and pretend it’s an inconvenience, but I enjoy the fact that, after years of you teaching me how to do things like brush my teeth and tie my shoelaces, the shoe is on the other foot. Plus, there’s something very endearing about the way you look down over your glasses and poke the screen.

And, of course, you can share that spam-encouraging post with me on Facebook, but please don’t be offended when I un-tag myself.

3. “I’d like to take you on a date.”

I don’t spend as much time with you as I’d like to, and I know you’re always up for some quality time with your favourite child.

Take your pick for a time and place, and I’ll pay the bill. I’m pretty sure I owe you a fair bit after the all the school fees, anyway. It’s lucky you haven’t been keeping tabs on all of that, right mum?

4. “You’re right more often than I let you know.”

Remember all those times you told me to take an umbrella or put on sunscreen, and I brushed it off and said I’d be fine? On not one of those occasions was I actually fine. After the many times I’ve had my clothes drenched or come home with a burnt face, you’d think I’d have learned, wouldn’t you?

Also, thanks for never saying “I told you so” and still being there to help pay the parking ticket, cure the hangover, or wipe away the tears.

5. “I can’t imagine my life without you.”

I may not be around all the time, but knowing you’re always there to answer the phone, give me a hug, or even make me a meal, makes everything better. You’re also the one person who I know will always forgive me, no matter what I’ve done. (Don’t worry, mum, I didn’t murder anyone).

6. “I love you.”

When was the last time you looked her in the eyes and said this, really? Please, at least just do this one this Mother’s Day.