When parties live in an intact marriage, Mother's Day is one of those holidays that allows the focus to be all about mom and her special day. It is the opportunity for dad and the children to show their appreciation to mom for all that she does, or at least that is how we envision that day. But, if you are recently divorced or separated, you may be looking at your parenting plan and realize that no provision has been made for the children to be with you for Mother's Day (or Father's Day for dads in a few weeks). If this is your ex-spouse's weekend with the children, and absent some flexibility on the part of the other parent, you may find yourself spending Mother's Day alone. Short of running into court and having the judge write in a parenting plan for Mother's Day, there are easier, and less expensive, ways to celebrate the day. Here are some thoughts to help make the day special.

  1. Take a hike. Give yourself the luxury of some alone time (something busy moms rarely get to enjoy).
  2. Check out some of the Mother's Day specials at a local spa for manicures, pedicures, and other spa favorites. Or, pamper yourself at home using a recipe for your own homemade facial mask.
  3. Explore a local antique shop or thrift shop for hidden treasures.
  4. Consider redirecting the focus away from you and celebrate moms in general. Whether you spend time with your own mom, aunt, female relative or close friend, consider how you can make the day special for them. You may even wish to visit a nursing home and spend time talking with or reading to mothers who may not have anyone who visits with them. Or make mother's day cards for a local hospital to deliver to patients.
  5. Prepare brown bag care packages with treats, water, and notes and hand out to homeless women in your community.

By considering the alternative ways to celebrate your special day, you may just find it is the best Mother's Day ever.

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.