I quickly learnt that unless I set the groundwork for what I needed my kids/husband to do for me, I would be disappointed LOL - so I start a few weeks before Mother's Day or my birthday with stuff like 'I really love cards on (insert occasion here) - a beautiful card is all I need', and 'Just letting you all know that I'm not cooking on (said celebration date) so it would be great if you could think ahead and organise something....', or 'wow I love that (whatever), what a great pressie that would make!' - mind you, it doesn't always work hahaha. I'm sure once they move out of home it will be a completely different story!