Yes, I know it’s still April, but the panic surrounding what to do about Mother’s Day (Sunday, May 9) has already set in. Restaurants are quite pleased with the renewed interest in dining out. According to the National Retail Federation, this particular holiday ranks 2nd only to our spending around the December holidays. That’s a significant statement as specialty stores such as jewelers and florists are also eagerly awaiting the renewed interest in consumer spending. The study also found that over 80% of Americans plan to celebrate the holiday this year. Another sign that we are seeing improvements in the economy!

A quick look at restaurant reservations shows that lots of diners are already well organized for the breakfast, brunch, or dinner outing they’ve planned. This is the time to get to Open Table and see what’s still available in your city. Many restaurants offer special menus that enable them to handle larger crowds but still manage to fill up quickly. Unless you’re planning on finding a spot that does not take reservations and you don’t mind waiting around for a table, this is the week to finalize your plans.

There are plenty of families that shy away from restaurant outings at typically crowded times such as Mother’s Day. They try the more storybook approach with breakfast in bed or a barbecue event–anything that keeps Mom out of the kitchen is the philosophy behind this strategy.

Whatever route you think is best, remember it’s MOM you’re talking about so a little bit of planning is in order. OK, a lot of planning. Now. Don’t forget the card–selection starts waning a few days before the 9th!

Go for it.