Sick of crowded Mother’s Day brunches? Want to do better than the classic bouquet and a card? Did your Mother’s Day plans fall through this year? Do you literally have no ideas, a limited budget or very little time left before May 14th?

1. Do you have access to adorable children?

Ask for their help. They’ll probably come up with a better idea anyway.

2. Do you have any talent that can be put to use?

Write a poem, sing her favorite song, create something crafty or cook a special dinner. Bonus points if the talent is something they taught you to do growing up like sewing, home repair or computer coding.

3. Do you have currently have spendable funds?

Make a donation to a worthy cause in their name.

Women for Women International works with women in conflict-affected areas for 25 years. They currently work in Afghanistan, Bosnia, DRC, Rwanda, Kurdistan Region of Iraq, Nigeria and Kosovo. You donate to a holistic international program, your mother figure gets a beautiful card.

4. Do you have a great idea that’s not ‘traditional’? Do it!

Dinner on your patio, gardening together, attending a concert or going to the movies is just as valid as the classic Mother’s Day plans everybody else is doing.

5. Do you have an idea that you think isn't fancy or worthy enough for Mother's Day?

Maybe take another look at your rejected ideas, a slightly boring or simple Mother's Day plan is better than none at all. Next year, you'll totally be on the ball and can think of something awesome.

6. Do you have telephone or video calling ability?

If you’re long-distance or can’t spend the day with them, have a long, good-quality chat with them over telephone or video call. Take advantage of the fact that the telephone has become a more formal method of communication.

7. Is there local natural beauty that can be put to use?

Parks, botanical gardens, the woods, a pretty body of water all make for a nice, often low-cost outing. This late in the game, you know if the weather's going to be nice as well.

8. Do you have other people to coordinate with?

If your brother, cousin, neighbor has a great idea why not tag along in full-hearted support?

9. Do you have writing implements?

Write a long, heartfelt letter telling your mother figure how much they mean to you. This involves thinking, writing, a bit of proofreading and an envelope. It can be done at 2am the night before if absolutely necessary.

10. Is the date causing that problem?

Pick another day. Things are likely to be cheaper/easier to get tickets/reservations for on another day. (Obviously tell said mother figure if you plan to delay festivities so there’s no disappointment.)

11. Ask them what they want to do

Being honest and say, “I tried to think of something special, but wasn’t sure what you wanted. What would you like to do for Mother’s Day [today]?”