Mother’s Day is a time to shower the moms in our lives with love, appreciation, and maybe a bouquet or two. 

You know what it’s not a time for? Asking her to do stuff. Perish the thought!

After all, Mother’s Day is about putting her needs first, right? So, here are five no-gos to keep in mind as you celebrate Mom this year.

1. “Can You Do the Laundry?”

It’s her day off, full stop. Actually, this deserves more attention. 

While it might be tempting to pass off a chore or two (especially if Mom has that magic touch with stubborn stains), resist the urge. Laundry, dishes, and any household chore should be off-limits. 

Have the kids do them instead. Yeah right. 

2. “What’s for Dinner?”

Don’t be a dingus. 

Repeat after me: I will not burden Mom with coming up with a dinner solution. In fact, you should have Mother’s Day dinner planned out already. Now, a fair and thoughtful question is asking if there’s somewhere special she wants to go, or if there’s a meal she’d like you to cook. 

But other than that, the onus is on you. 

3. “Can You Watch the Kids?”

This request is fine…as long as it’s on Father’s Day. 

But it’s Mother’s Day and kid duty is out of the question. 

Encourage your spouse or partner to take the day for some well-deserved “me time” or adult-only activities (get your mind out of the gutter!) Whether it’s reading a book uninterrupted, enjoying a spa day, or simply napping, make sure the usual responsibilities are covered.

4. “Did You Hear What (Fill-in-the-Blank) Politician Said?”

Mother’s Day is not the day to remind Mom about crazy current events in the news. Trust me, they’ll still be there on Monday.

Instead, let’s keep the news cycle about whether Mom would prefer pancakes or waffles for breakfast, or if she’d break her “no dessert before noon” rule for a slice of chocolate cake. And honestly, isn’t deciding whether to watch a rom-com or a drama more the speed we’re aiming for today?

Let’s save the world’s dramas for another day—today’s headlines should only read: “World’s Best Mom Takes a Well-Deserved Break, Damn It!”

5. “Can You Help Me with Something?”

Here’s how the grading scale works on this one.

• A for the thought not entering your mind.
• B if it enters your mind, but you keep your mouth closed.
• C if you say, “Can you help me…oh, never mind.”
• D if you say, “Can you help with something? Oh crap, strike that from the record.”
• F if you say, “Can you help me with something? Well? Come on already.” 

Keep the focus on Mom on Mother’s Day, and while you’re at it you can also make her feel special several other days during the year. 

💐 SHAMELESS PLUG ALERT 💐

Did I mention that Mother’s Day is only two weeks from this Sunday? No need to rack your brain to find the perfect gift, because it’s right here. 

Behold our Luscious Lavender Pamper Spa Gift Basket, built in a beautiful slat basket and filled with body butter, soap, bath soak, body lotion, bath bomb, lavender candle, aloe-infused socks, and more!

Happy Mother’s Day!

About BasketWorks

BasketWorks is a woman-owned gift basket company located in the north suburbs of Chicago (specifically Northbrook, IL) since 1997. We are proud to offer a variety of gifts and gift baskets appropriate for all occasions. Each of our packages is built to order, allowing for customization at no additional cost to our clients. Contact us today!

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The expression, “Aged like a fine wine,” needs to come with a caveat: not all wines are destined for the long slumber in the cellar. 

Some are more like “live fast, die young” kind of stars. However, for those precious bottles that are meant to age gracefully, knowing the best ways to help them reach their potential can be the difference between a good wine and a really good wine. 

Let’s dip into some of the best practices for aging wine, so that when you do decide to pop that cork, it was worth the wait. 

1. Understanding Wine Aging Potential

Not all wines are cut out for aging—no offense to those wines…if they’re listening.

Time for some sommelier-speak. Generally, wines with a higher acidity, tannin level (in red wines), and residual sugar are the ones that age well.

These components act as preservatives, allowing the wine to develop complexity over time. 

So, before you consider aging a wine, research its aging potential or ask for advice from a trusted wine expert.

2. Optimal Storage Conditions

Creating the perfect environment for your wine to age is non-negotiable. 

The ideal conditions include a stable temperature around 55°F, humidity levels between 60% and 70% (I know, this sounds like a weather report) to prevent corks from drying out, minimal light exposure, and a vibration-free space. 

These conditions help slow down the aging process, allowing the wine to develop its flavors and aroma gradually.

3. Horizontal is the Way to Go

When storing wine, position is key. 

Bottles should be stored horizontally to keep the liquid up against the cork, which helps prevent it from drying out. A dry cork can lead to the end of the world. Actually, it can cause oxidation, which is the arch-nemesis of wine aging, turning your precious bottle into vinegar.

4. Patience is a Virtue

Aging wine is not for the impatient. 

It requires time and, well, more time. The aging process allows the wine to go through chemical reactions that enhance its bouquet and flavors, making it smoother and more enjoyable to drink. 

This could take years, or even decades, so it’s all about the long game. 

5. Regular Check-ins

While it’s important to let your wine rest, occasional check-ins are essential. 

This doesn’t mean opening the bottle, but rather monitoring the storage conditions for the sake of consistency. 

A quick visual inspection to check for leaks or any signs of cork damage can save your wine from premature aging.

Remember, no drinking it yet! 

Aging wine is an art and a science, requiring knowledge, the right conditions, and a good deal of patience. Remember, you can still drink wine you’re not aging while you’re waiting. 

🍷 SHAMELESS PLUG ALERT 🍷 

If you couldn’t tell, we love wine, and we’ll prove it with our Mi Amore Wine Gift Basket. This gem is great for many occasions and includes TiAmo Prosecco, Tasso fig preserve, water crackers, wine cheese spread, Grisbi Italian lemon cookies, and two wine glasses. 

Enjoy!

About BasketWorks

BasketWorks is a woman-owned gift basket company located in the north suburbs of Chicago (specifically Northbrook, IL) since 1997. We are proud to offer a variety of gifts and gift baskets appropriate for all occasions. Each of our packages is built to order, allowing for customization at no additional cost to our clients. Contact us today!

Please subscribe to our blog post and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and LinkedIn.