Mama, it’s time to celebrate … you! Mother’s Day might usually be a low-key affair in your house (breakfast in bed and some alone time in the bathroom for once?), but this year it’s time to up the ante. Ditch those soggy Cheerios and spilled OJ for something that’s a little more special. Here are three ideas.
For the adventurous mom:
Traversing cargo nets, balance logs and multi-vines from 28 feet off the ground? You’ve navigated much worse (Projectile puke, Lego obstacle courses and stroller traffic jams, anyone?). Teens and their badass mamas can take on the Mother’s Day High Ropes Challenge, which is led by certified instructors and includes all necessary safety equipment. $35, $28 resident. 3-6 p.m. May 14. Lincoln Marsh Natural Area, Harrison and Pierce avenues, Wheaton. (630) 871-2810, lincolnmarsh.org.
For the queen bee:
You’ll be sitting pretty at Bee-tastic Mother’s Day, an up-close look into the lives and hives of Heller Nature Center’s resident bees. Learn all about the little buzzers before suiting up in one of those flattering white numbers and heading to the honey. Everyone gets a sweet treat to enjoy, and you get the chance to be grateful you only have three kids, as opposed to the queen’s thousands. $9. 1-2:30 p.m. May 14. Heller Nature Center, 2821 Ridge Road, Highland Park. (847) 433-6901, hellernaturecenter.org.
For the prim-and-proper mother:
Pinkies up! It’s time for your family to show off its sophisticated side. Head to the Mother’s Day Tea, a memorable day on the farm that includes a family-friendly brunch, tea time and the chance to work as a team to create a teacup garden to take home. And since it’s held on the eve of the big day, you still might be able to squeeze in some imperfect, but made-with-love, breakfast in bed. $17, $14 resident. 10 a.m.-noon. May 13. Yunker Farm, 10824 LaPorte Road, Mokena. (708) 390-2401, mokenapark.com.
