Each year, on the second Sunday in May, we give thanks to that one special person who gave us life... our mothers! Mother’s Day is dedicated to celebrating motherhood and honoring the important roles that moms serve in society. This year, Mother's Day lands on May 13th, and the date is approaching fast. Whether its’ a few simple words on a hallmark card or a pair of diamond earrings, make Mother’s Day 2012 one to remember.
Ever wonder how mother’s day came about? Well, in the late 1800’s there were several attempts to establish an American Mother’s Day but they were unsuccessful. The current holiday which we are familiar with today was founded by Anna Jarvis from West Virginia. After Anna’s mother died in 1905, she held a memorial for her mom and soon after started a campaign to make “Mother’s Day” a recognized day across the nation. In honor of peace and motherhood, Anna petitioned her idea to the superintendent of her church in 1908 and her request was honored on May 10th of that same year.
The first official Mother’s Day celebration was held on this day and carnations were given out to the mothers who attended. However, Mother’s day was not an official national holiday until 1914 when President Woodrow Wilson signed it into law, declaring the second Sunday in May as Mother’s Day. By the time Anna Jarvis died in 1948, over 40 different countries observed this holiday, and over 70 countries participate today. Most of the other countries celebrate on a different day than the U.S and have a slightly different meaning associated with various events (religions and historical). However, most countries have adopted many American Mother’s Day traditions.
Mother’s day is one of the most commercialized U.S. holidays. Flowers, cards and other various gifts are sold like crazy in the weeks and days before. What are some top gift ideas for mother’s day? Besides the common (sometimes overdone) presents like flowers, personalized items are always a big hit. They show that you took time and put thought into the present instead of picking something up last minute. Gift certificates are always nice too. Other gift ideas include jewelry, candles, perfume, picture frames/albums, pampering gifts, and chocolates/candy. Don’t have a lot of money to spend? Try hand-making a gift or cooking dinner for her (and doing the dishes afterwards)!
The number one gift, in our opinion, is jewelry. Like shoes and purses, it’s something you can never have enough of. This year, why not try personalized jewelry; it's a thoughtful and special way to show you took the time to have something made especially for her.
Mother’s Day: a day to show your appreciation, respect and love for that incredible person who does everything for you. Don’t wait until last minute to show your mom how much you love her!
“All that I am or ever hope to be, I owe to my angel Mother.” -Abraham Lincoln
Fun facts:
Mother’s day is the biggest day for long-distance phone calls. It is also the 3rd highest church attendance day, following behind Christmas Eve and Easter.
According to the National Retail Federation, the average person spent $127.90 last year on mother’s day presents and this year, the amount is expected to be $140.73. Total spending in the United States on this one day is expected to reach 16.3 billion dollars.
