Perfume, soaps, candy, flowers...these may not be what Mom really wants. These show you thought of her and are relatively easy to come by, but are they what she would really love?

Maybe Mom might desire something less tangible. Maybe what would really delight her is time.

Time without meal responsibilities

Caution: don't assume this means taking her to a restaurant! It's not always necessary - or relaxing - for her to go out to eat. The time she gains by not cooking and cleaning up may be what she holds dear.

Relieve Mom from the responsibility of any or all meals this day by preparing and cleaning up with a loving heart. This act alone will make her feel like a queen - the food itself is secondary.

However, if even boiling water is intimidating, you can still treat Mom without facing a crowded restaurant. Consider a private chef to prepare a custom meal for your family in your home. In the Los Angeles area, Chef TJ "Gino" Martens ( www.ginoscara.com) will do just that, leaving Mom (and all of you) feeling like royalty. There may be similar services in other cities.

Time for herself

Mom may appreciate having home all to herself for a few hours. To provide this, you could take the children out for a walk, ride bikes or go to the mall. What would Mom do all by herself? It might not seem like much: she may just curl up on the sofa and read a magazine from cover to cover, instead of snatching paragraphs in the bathroom. She could lounge in a bubble bath, maybe with candles and music. She might enjoy the time for her favorite hobby or the luxury of a guilt-free nap.

As an alternative, you could take care of life at home so that she can go out. What a treat for Mom to shop leisurely or try on clothes with no pressure to leave. She might enjoy a movie, a bike ride, or strolling on the beach. You'd be amazed at what Mom can find to enjoy when she's out by herself, with no other cares.

Most Moms don't need a lot of time to feel rejuvenated. A short respite from her schedule can do wonders for her, including renewing appreciation for you, her family. After all, she loves you and she knows she wouldn't be Mom without you!

Susan Hamersky is Co-founder/President of California Concierge which provides on-call personal assistance to give busy people time for what they want to do. For more information: (818) 883-8550, info@calconcierge.com, or www.calconcierge.com. Ask for Mother's Day Offer (exp. 5/13/07): for each $100 certificate purchased, receive a complimentary $25 certificate.