Each year on Mother’s day, moms across the country are adorned with jewelry, breakfast in bed, and bouquets of flowers. Don’t get me wrong. These gifts are deeply appreciated – especially when they are accompanied by handmade cards or art projects proclaiming a child’s love for her.

But, dad’s – really – you work too hard. Getting mom the perfect Mother’s day gift is “easier” than roaming the aisles at the store, calling the local florist, or picking up the most expensive box of chocolate you can find.

In the last few weeks, I’ve talked with plenty of mothers, and here are some of their Mother’s day wishes:

Time alone. As much time as we want. Exactly when we want it. Without the innate guilt that makes us rush through that time.

A clean house. Without having to ask anyone. Or point out shoes left on the floor, toilets not flushed, or dishes left on the table.

A morning routine completed in much the same way. Void of “what next, mom?” or “I’m ready” when they’re really not.

Privacy in the bathroom. Why is it that any time moms go to the bathroom, children sense it and immediately need her?

A visit from the laundry fairy. Clothes washed and cleaned on Sunday (Mother’s day). Clothes that stay clean for another whole week, giving mom two weeks off of laundry detail.

Smiles all day long. No tantrums. No siblings fighting. No looking at mom as though her request to brush your teeth is insane.

Honey-Do list completed. Those projects that have been incomplete for months – years, maybe? It would be great if the light bulbs could be replaced, the drapes hung, and the leak in the bathroom sink fixed.

A chance to sleep late. Who are we kidding? Sleeping late means waking up at 7. We’ll take it. We know it’s incomprehensible to sleep beyond that.

No dishes. And no dishes left in the sink. And, while we’re at it – no dishes left in the dishwashers. All dishes clean, dried, and put away.

Mother’s day is a chance to honor moms for all that they do. We love to read your words of gratitude and affection. We savor the drawings you make for us and the smiles and hugs you bestow upon us.

Mother’s day, truly, is the perfect day – as long as we can spend it with you.