Mother's Day in the UK is always held in March and so I was delighted to discover on moving to Beijing that the Chinese celebrate theirs in May, therefore giving my family two chances to pamper me.

Back in March, I was presented with a vase of beautifully hand-crafted paper flowers that Max made at school. Together with a carefully prepared breakfast with a little help from Daddy.

How can you top that? Let's just say that I'm looking forward to Sunday's celebration with great anticipation. Especially as there's so much on offer around town this year.

Here's a taster for all you Beijing Mamas out there (and for those looking for ideas on how to spoil them).

FLOWERS FOR MY MOM!

Moss & Dragonfly Floral Studio is rolling out a flower arrangement class for children aged 6 - 12 @ Smallville Shunyi (MPF Room) on Saturday 9th May.

Participants will be taught to make a beautiful floral arrangement to present to their mom on this special occasion. All proceeds from the classes will be donated to Agape Family House which looks after physically challenged Chinese orphans.

On the 9th & 10th May, flowers & gifts hampers by Moss & Dragonfly will also be on sale at Smallville MPF Room for your convenience. For any special request, please call Iris Ho @ 139-1020-8733.

Class Times: 10.30am - 12.30pm (1st session) 2.00pm - 4.00pm (2nd session) Class Size: 4 kids (min) - 8 kids (max)

Class Fee: RMB120/Child (inclusive of flowers & all class materials). Complimentary juice cookies will also be provided by Smallville Cafe

COEURS DE CHOCOLAT

Chic pink handbag-shaped boxes filled with chocolate hearts could be the way to this Mama's heart! Available at fashionable Fauchon, B1-F2 Shin Kong Place. Call 6533-1266 ext. 8228 or visit www.fauchon.com for further details. Better still, check 'em out in store!

OLD SKOOL

The annual Mother's Day Brunch at The Schoolhouse, Mutianyu, features champagne, roses, live jazz and grilled steaks in a generous country buffet.

Adults RMB 280, Kids 4-12 RMB 140, Under 4s FREE. Call 6162-6506 for reservations. Located just 60 minutes away by car but a world away from Beijing's pollution and noise.

FOR MIND & BODHI

Book her in for a spot of relaxation at Bodhi's Therapeutic Retreat. My personal fave is the Dermalogica Refresher Facial and Multivitamin Eye Treatment (Max do mention this to Daddy!).

He can call 6417595 or email: reservation@bodhi.com.cn. Opening hours: 11 am - midnight. Address: 17 Gongti Beilu.

All sounds like absolute bliss to me...