Mother’s Day. Often associated with Brunches, Bling and Bouquets, there’s no denying that it’s a hallmark holiday (gasp). Regardless, there is something special about setting aside a whole day to honor and celebrate the women who raised us.
Mother’s Day is a holiday that honours motherhood and that is observed throughout the world. Festivals celebrating mothers and motherhood can be traced back to the ancient Greeks and Romans, who held them in honor of the mother goddesses Rhea and Cybele. It’s more recent origins go back to 1870, when Julia Ward Howe – an abolitionist best remembered as the poet who wrote “Battle Hymn of the Republic” – worked to establish a Mother’s Peace Day. Howe dedicated the celebration to the eradication of war, and organized festivities in Boston for years. In 1908, Anna Jarvis conceived of Mother’s Day as a way of honoring the sacrifices mothers made for their children following her mother’s 1905 death.
It became recognized as an official U.S. holiday in 1914. Jarvis later denounced the holiday’s commercialization and spent the latter part of her life trying to remove it from the calendar. While dates and celebrations vary around the globe, Mother’s Day most commonly falls on the second Sunday in May and traditionally involves presenting mothers with flowers, cards and other gifts.
How We Celebrate Mother’s Day
Sometimes, I get to start the day with a special breakfast. Never in bed; because, you know…Crumbs. I’m not a fan of tchotchkes. To me, one of the biggest indulgences is time. My family knows that I don’t expect presents so my gift is being able to steal away for an indulgent afternoon.
Over the past few years, I’ve been fortunate enough to indulge with my sister (also a mom) and my mother for a glorious break that involves window shopping, walking and tea. In our food obsessed family, a celebration wouldn’t be one without food! Our lazy afternoon is often capped off by dinner prepared by the men and children in our family.
To Moms everywhere – Happy Mother’s Day this year! I hope that you are indulged and loved by all those you care for.
