I've grown up with a mother who puts a lot of weight on Christmas. Everything has to be absolutely perfect. The tree puts the one at Rockefeller square to shame , the presents underneath the tree like a Macy's Christmas window display, the dinner table is set like something out of a heart warming movie and we are all dressed in our "Christmas chic" outfits. Can you imagine what kind of pressure I am under each year to meet gift expectations. Let me tell you, the homemade "I Love Mom" t-shirt did fly all too well, nor did the last minute Pipe Cleaner bent in to an ornament gift.

There are are a few things you should take in to consideration when getting your Mom something for Christmas (These rules apply to me and maybe not you, but I suggest them).

Try to at least get a hint as to what she really might want. Think back to November, where there any hints? If yes, go for the hint. She will be thrilled you caught the hint and thrilled with herself that that hint was good enough to be picked up on.

If there are no hints or list, start to go through a process of elimination since there are TONS of Mom categories.

Is she environmental? Then maybe she will love an eco friendly style bath product or enviro shopping bag she can use at the grocery store, or send money to Greenpeace or the Whale Wars guys in her name.

Is she a pet Lover? Maybe a new, dog, cat, fish, bird, or all the above. Maybe a blown up picture of her pets in a nice frame.

Is she a Glamour Girl? Make-Up, hair dryer, visit to a massage therapist, facial or get really hardcore and just get her a face lift depending on how generous you are and how close you are to mom (Be careful with this one you might want to ask Dad first).

Is she a home body? Snuggie (yes i said it), wonderful bathrobe, shower radio or bathtub TV or pillow or both together.

Is she a Cook? Nothing says love more than a Le Creuset set of pots and pans. You could also give a voucher for cooking lessons with a top chef. If your on a budget, just get the cook book from the top chef.

Is she a wild woman? Try old motorcycle rental, a trip to a night club, special wine or a new leather jacket

Is she stuck in the 70’s? Bring her back the good-ol'-days with her favorite band from the 70's, a trip to a 60's club, a record player, an old-time apron, or rent on old Caddy!

Is she a bookworm? Well then she probably has a nook or a kindle? Right? If not, put that on the top of your list. There are so many cool ones now. If she has one just get a gift certificate for a few books are a fun accessory.

Now I think there are plenty of suggestions above for all types of moms. Be thoughtful because there is nothing worse than your mother not letting you ever live down that time you gave her a shitty christmas present. Plus it really sets the mood for the next year. Do well!!!

Merry Christmas.