12 Things You Should Tell Your Mom On Mother's Day

Your mom does not want flowers, or a candle, for Mother's Day. I'm sure she would enjoy them as gifts, but more than any tangible item you could give her, you should really tell your mom what she deserves to hear on Mother's Day. And because expressing your feelings can be difficult, here are 12 things to say to your mom on Mother's Day in case you need any inspiration.

Maybe you tell her you love her all the time, and maybe you're even quick to say thanks when she does something nice for you. But there are several statements she's probably waited years to hear. And these are things that she's not going to demand you say to her, because being a mother is a thankless job. But your mother is a glorious, courageous bad-ass, and today, she deserves all the verbal praise you can throw her way.

The best kind of gift you can give Mom is quality time, because she wants nothing more than to spend time with you. So while you're hanging out with Mom and showering her with sweet treats and mani pedis, make sure you're actually talking to her. Years later, she'll have forgotten the cake, and maybe the pampering, but she'll never forget how you made her feel. Here are all the things to say to your mom on Mother's Day, because she's the best human you know.

1. "Thank you."

No matter how often you're saying this, she could probably stand to hear a few more. She carried you, and grew you in her belly for nine months — all while resisting alcohol and caffeine. That's a sacrifice that warrants endless thank-yous, friends.

2. "You're my hero."

Because she is, right? I mean, the main reason you're as awesome as you are is because of her, so she's earned the title.

3. "You were right."

Remember that d-bag in high school you were infatuated with? You know, the guy who always showed you just enough attention to keep you interested, but not enough that you felt loved? Your mom knew he didn't deserve you, and you can finally tell her she was right about that.

4. "I never told you this, but... "

Now that you're an adult and living on your own, it's fun to share the sneaky shenanigans you got away with when you were a kid. Mostly because nine times out of 10, your mom knew exactly what was going on, and just didn't bust you on it.

5. "Remember when I was little and.... ?"

Reminisce about a moment when you struggled with something — it can be serious or silly — and your mom came to the rescue. It'll be a nice way to remind her how you've always depended on her, and in some ways, probably always will.

6. "I need your advice."

It doesn't matter how old you are — your mom will never tire of giving you her advice. And the more self-sufficient you become, the more she'll appreciate that you came to her at all. Make her feel needed, and ask for some of that classic Mom wisdom.

7. "I'm proud of you."

This is not a statement that should only go from parents to kids. It should go both ways! We never stop evolving as humans, so your mom would love to hear that you've noticed the hard work she's put in on a project, and that you think she did a kick-ass job.

8. "Let's talk more often."

Don't just say this, because it'll get your mom super excited. And then it'll break her heart if you don't deliver. Actually set up a regular time to call or visit with Mom to catch up on everything. That's probably the best gift you could possibly give.

9. "You deserve the best."

Say this right before you treat her to a spa day or any kind of mother-daughter bonding activity. Because she does deserve the best. And bonding time with you is as good as it gets.

10. "You are beautiful."

Celebrate your mom's beauty by giving her specific compliments. We live in a society that only appreciates beauty of a certain age, which is bonkers because every woman alive — and that includes your mom — is beautiful in their own way, and should be reminded of that on the reg.

11. "We need to plan a girls' trip."

How much fun would it be to hit the road with just Mom? So much fun, right? You can chill with her like she's one of your besties, and get amazing mother-daughter bonding in there too. Plus, she will have an absolute blast.

12. "I love you."

It doesn't matter if you say it every day, or even if you just said it two seconds ago. Say it again. Because she will never get sick of hearing it.

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