Don’t go out in sweats; you never know who you’ll run in to. Make your own money. Know how to make one really great dinner to entertain guests. Live on your own, at least once. Don’t be afraid to fall in love. When someone says, “Is Melissa there?” Say “This is she,” not “This is her.” Always, always write a thank-you note; even if you say “thank-you” in person. Know when to end a job or relationship. Have a pet once in your life to understand the unspeakable, deep bond you’ll share. Learn to be alone and take time for yourself. Know that if you have one best friend you can trust you’re lucky. Understand that there will always be someone with more or less than you. Don’t end a sentence in a prepositional phrase like, “Where at?” Read books. Clean your sheets every two weeks. Learn to laugh at yourself. Eat dinner at a restaurant alone without talking on your cell phone or reading a book.

What have you learned from your Mom? On Mother’s Day take time to thank Mom for everything she’s taught you. From the mundane—add salt to boiling water before adding the pasta—to the life lessons, we wouldn’t be who we are today without that special lady in our lives.

Need help picking out a gift for Mom? Make the jump!

For the Phillyist Mom, Excitations offers some unique gift ideas. Treat Mom to an indoor rock climbing class, a private yoga sampler, or a private historic walking tour of Philadelphia. If you have some extra money to spend—hello stimulus check!—buy mom a romantic hot air balloon ride or a private sailing experience.

If simplicity is your style, treat mom to brunch or dinner, or something relaxing like a massage. If money is tight, remember it’s the little things that count. Pay Mom a visit once a week and chat over a cup of coffee. If distance is a problem, give Mom a call just to say hi. Whatever you decide, remember to tell your Mom happy Mother’s Day. Whether you consider it a Hallmark holiday or not, it’s nice to remind those important to us just how much we love them. Just remember to do it more than one day a year. Happy Mother’s Day to all the Moms out there.

Image Credit: Flickr user the_toe_stubber