Since becoming a mummy to Andrea six and a half years ago, my priorities have certainly changed. I cry more easily at sad (and happy) endings of films and books. If I hear a child cry, I immediately look round to see if I can help. I have become an expert in making up a school lunch in 45 seconds or less. I have realised that my hugs and kisses have magical properties and can soothe boo-boos both physical and emotional.

Other things have also changed. I rarely, if ever, sweat the small stuff, preferring to live in the now and enjoy time spent with my boy. And suddenly, items which in my previous life were important or even essential, have faded into obscurity.

For Mother's Day, I don't need or want anything too expensive In fact, I'd be quite happy with the company of my son and my loved ones. However, I do appreciate that people want to show their appreciation of their mum with a tangible gift. Here are some gifts that would make me very happy, and hopefully some of our readers too (and yes I am cutting out this article and leaving it lying around for my son when he is older - hint, hint!)

Handmade cards

I know it's a total cliché, but I have kept each and every personalised card which was made lovingly by my little boy since age 1. Each unrefined drawing, each term of endearment written in shaky letters is, and always will be, etched in my heart (and kept in a scrapbook).

A few hours of pampering

There's no need to spend lots of money at a spa - although, let's face it, I would never turn down the offer of a voucher to one of our lovely local relaxation spaces. For a cheaper option, let your mum choose how she would like to spend a few hours (not necessarily on Mother's Day itself) and make it happen! For me, the perfect afternoon, for example, would be one which I could spend reading a book on a sofa while being supplied with a constant supply of chocolate and the occasional cuddle.  Just thinking about it makes me smile.

Cook for the cook

Anyone who knows me also knows that the way to my heart is definitely through my stomach. And somehow, food prepared by someone else nearly always tastes better. In any case, food in any shape and form is always appreciated. If you are a dab hand in the kitchen, why not surprise your mum with a lovely cooked meal or scrumptious cake made with her favourite ingredients? For the record (and for when Andrea eventually reads this), I really fancy a lemon meringue right now!

Lots of Love

They say that the best things in life are free. To be perfectly honest, the best thing my son can give me on Mother's Day morning is a huge smile, massive hug and a heartfelt "I love you". Of course, if by the time he is reading this he has become a famous surgeon and/or rock star, a pair of sparkly Louboutins will also do nicely!