Out of the many holidays during the spring and summer time, Mother’s Day is an important day to represent the strength and sacrifice mothers give to shape their families and communities. The beautiful day of celebrating mothers had many different stepping stones to become what it is today. In the 19th century, years before the Civil War, Ann Reeves Jarvis started the “Mother’s Day Work Clubs” in an effort to teach local women how to care for their children properly. These clubs continued to come together throughout the Civil War, and in 1868, Jarvis organized “Mother’s Friendship Day,” where mothers gathered with former Union and Confederate soldiers to promote reunion. Another step in the direction of Mother’s Day was when, in 1870, abolitionist and suffragette Julia Ward Howe wrote the “Mother’s Day Proclamation,” which was made to gather women to promote world peace. This eventually turned into a national “Mother’s Peace Day,” which would be celebrated every June 2. Mother’s Day became an official holiday when the daughter of Ann Reeves Jarvis, Anna Jarvis, wanted a way to honor her mother and the sacrifices mothers made for their children after she passed away in 1905 (History.com). Now, Mother’s Day is celebrated on the second Sunday of May annually.
Traditionally, on Mother’s Day, it is expected that children and husbands take time out of the day to celebrate their mom and wife. There are many things to do to show your mom you care and you appreciate her through sentimental gifts or actions. If you are willing to spend money, get her something she enjoys. Maybe something she is running out of, like a makeup product or her favorite lotion. You could get her a basket filled with her favorite things. An example could be a blanket, candle, gift card, flowers, a necklace, and a card. If you do not want to get her a gift but you still want to do something nice for her, then you could take her out to dinner, go shopping, or take her for a spa day.
If you are a high school student who does not have the money to spend on a gift or any excursions on Mother’s Day, there are still different things you can do to show your appreciation. For instance, Kate Franke of Good Housekeeping said you could clean the house, hand-make her a card, go on a walk, plan a picnic in the park, or make her a homemade meal. Another creative idea is to plan a movie day at home. Put on Mom’s favorite movie series, get some popcorn and her favorite candy, grab a blanket, and enjoy time together. If your mom likes competition, you could put on a cooking or baking competition in the house. Have all the family members at home participate and see who can make the best meal or best dessert in a set time frame.
For this special day, there are many ways to give her a good experience, whether it costs money or costs nothing at all, there is an option for everyone. Mother’s Day is an amazing day and a tremendous opportunity to show how much you respect and admire your mom.
