When we celebrate Mother's Day on the second Sunday in May, it's thanks to U.S. president Woodrow Wilson, who signed a measure in 1914 officially establishing the holiday. Since then, Mother's Day gifts have been the focus of most Mother's Day ideas, though Mother's Day cards—and the Mother's Day wishes written inside—remain top of mind too.

But as great as gifts for mom are, nothing beats spending time together. Maybe that looks like Mother's Day brunch or Mother's Day movies on repeat from morning till night—or even special festivities based on her zodiac sign. No matter how you choose to honor the special moms, grandmas, and like-a-mom ladies in your life, know that it's sure to be deeply appreciated.

Ways to Celebrate Mom This Year

1. Offer yard and garden services.
If you're local to your Mom, give her a “gift certificate” for your family's yard and garden services. Help her by laying down mulch. Put the “certificate” in a flower pot with spring-planted bulbs which flower in summer.
If you're not local, how about a subscription to The Old Farmer's Almanac Garden Planner? Any gardener would love it! And it's an instant present without shipping!

2. Decorate your mom's door or give flowers!
If you're nearby, you can have fun decorating your mom's front door with streamers, special signs, a wreath, and flowers! If you have kids, get them involved! Mom or grandma will love the surprise.
Of course, flowers and plants are always a delight. If you're local, deliver plants to her porch in person. If you're not local, there's always delivery in most places (but order well enough ahead!).

3. Cook for Mom or set up a brunch date.
Breakfast in bed is always a classic and appreciated! Something simple is fine for this, such as toast or a croissant with jam or fruit and a cup of coffee or tea. Or, if she's not fond of eating in bed, how about preparing a sit-down brunch? Here are 15 delicious brunch ideas.
If you're not with mom in person, how about a virtual brunch date? We suggest these Champagne Mimosas. You can drop off the ingredients at her door if she's local, or send the recipe in advance to everyone! Then Zoom with the entire family and raise a glass to mom!
If your mom is local, drop off a casserole dinner. It's great comfort food, and you can put it all together to drop off on her porch!
Or, bake a cake! Traditionally, children in England always baked a cake for their Mother's Day. If you like this tradition, here's a truly delicious (and better than boxed) cake recipe: Chocolate Mousse Cake.

Plan ahead for Mother's Day—which falls on Sunday, May 8. A day to honor mothers has existed for as long as, well, there have been mothers. How can we give extra recognition to moms, especially if we're apart?