Mother’s Day is right around the corner, and with a little preparation and planning, this can be a spectacular day for the special mother in your life. Whether this is your first Mother’s Day as a mom or you are fortunate to celebrate multiple generations of mothers, take time to enjoy the day. It may be spending time with the people who made you a mother, or it may be a little quiet time to escape the hustle and bustle of motherhood. Here are some local ideas on how to spend the day that are sure to appeal to the special mom in your life.
Spoiled at a spa: Often we mothers tend to put everyone else in our lives before ourselves so Mother’s Day may be the perfect excuse to spoil yourself for a few hours, guilt-free. SenSpa in the Presidio is the perfect place if you want to be close but feel like you are a million miles away. The setting is tranquil and their spa services are top notch. If you are looking to get a little farther away, the Healing Arts Center & Spa at Cavallo Point Lodge in Sausalito is sure not to disappoint. They have an expansive list of spa services, yoga and meditation classes, and a heated relaxation pool. With serene views of the Golden Gate Bridge, this is sure to be a relaxing escape from urban life. Wherever you choose to relax and unwind, make sure to book early; this is a popular day for spa services. (Senspa, 1161 Gorgas Avenue, 415-441-1777, www.senspa.com; Healing Arts Center & Spa, 601 Murray Circle, Fort Baker, 415-339-4767)
Big-time brunch: It is always nice for mothers to be treated to a meal on Mother’s Day that they did not have to have help in preparing. There are so many fabulous brunch places in our city, but I think one of the most decadent and amazing spreads can be found at the Garden Court Restaurant at the Palace Hotel. There is a buffet the size of a ballroom with every type of cuisine imaginable, and of course champagne and live jazz. This is definitely on the pricey side — $99 for adults and $69 for children age 5–12, but I can guarantee you definitely won’t leave hungry. It is an exquisite setting for such a special occasion, and it is topped off with a professional photographer to take a family picture. There is a fabulous children’s area complete with all your child’s favorite foods and a movie if you need a little adult time. This is a meal and a San Francisco experience that is sure to leave the mother in your life feeling like a queen. (2 Montgomery Street, 415-546-5089 www.sfpalace.com)
Picnic at the Palace: If spending time outdoors is more your thing, then I suggest packing a picnic and heading to the Palace of Fine Arts. Even though the Exploratorium is gone, there is still plenty here for the whole family to enjoy. Whether a stroll around the lagoon, exploring the newly renovated paths around the rotunda or just enjoying the fresh air, this is a place that appeals to all ages. The kids will enjoy feeding the ducks and swans, climbing a tree, or rolling down the grassy hill. Moms are sure to appreciate the picturesque views and maybe a quiet moment. Sometimes the moments we appreciate the most are the ones we rarely take time to enjoy, especially when they are right in our own backyard. How lucky we are. (3301 Lyon Street, 415-567-6642, www.palaceoffinearts.org)
However you choose to spend the day, don’t forget to take a moment to hug the ones in your life that made you a mother. Cherish the handmade cards or the “surprise” breakfast in bed or the attempt to help with extra chores. Sometimes it is the small, simple things that are most special and most appreciated. Remember also to take time to thank your own mother. It may not be breakfast in bed anymore but find a way to say, “I love you,” and make sure she knows she is appreciated. Finally, take a moment to reflect as a mother on your own blessings. Sometimes in the midst of diaper changes, midnight feedings, homework, and soccer, it is easy to forget just how truly lucky I am.
Happy Mother’s Day!
