Mother’s Day is this Sunday in the U.S., and though it’s been a tradition for years to inundate Mom with all sorts of gifts, from perfume to clothes to housewares to stationery……don’t do it!

If your mom lives with lots of clutter, the last thing she needs is more of it. And if she doesn’t live with clutter, it’s logical that she probably doesn’t want to clutter up her place with things she doesn’t need but feels she should keep because they’re from her kids.

So what should you give your mom for Mother’s Day?

Speaking as the mom of several adults, I think I vouch for most moms when I say we’d just like to hear from you. Seeing you would be even better! You don’t have to give us lace hankies, or cutesy dishtowels with clever sayings on them. We prefer your presence over your presents.

But if you can’t be with us on Mother’s Day, and you feel you must give us a gift, consider the options that are either temporary or experiences:

• Cut flowers are beautiful. We can enjoy them for a few weeks until they wilt. We’ll always remember that they came from you.
• Flowering annual plants are wonderful; they are so pretty and last all summer, making our porches and balconies look lovely.
• A sweet treat is always appreciated; there are many sugar-free and gluten-free goodies available if your mom is diabetic or has specific dietary requirements.
• Gift cards are always nice, and the gift of an experience is even better, like tickets to a concert, or a few hours at a spa.

The very best gift, of course, would be an experience with you. No clutter, just joy!