[Anna Jarvis] (1864-1948) started this tradition. Three years after her mother died, she held a memorial ceremony to honor her mother and all other mothers.

• Colored carnations signify that a person’s mother is [living];

• A white carnation means that the person’s mother is [deceased].

The National Retail Federation (NRF) estimates that in 2018, we’ll spend $23.1 billion on our moms. The average amount spent is $180. Seventy-seven percent give cards, 69% buy flowers, and 55% take their moms out to eat. But giving jewelry wins hands down. An estimated $4.6 billion is spent.

Rhea was the maternal goddess in ancient Greece. She was the wife of Cronus and believed to be the mother of many gods and goddesses. Many spring festivals were held in her honor.

Similarly, ancient Romans celebrated a spring festival called Hilaria. It was held in honor of a mother goddess called Cybele on the Ides of March. On this day, parties were held and, offerings were made at the temple. The festival lasted 3 days.

In the 1600’s, Mothering Day was held on the 4^th Sunday of Lent. After a prayer service in honor of the Virgin Mary. Afterward, children would present their moms with flowers.

Studies show that giving bouquets of flowers have many positive psychological and health benefits. In the Harvard study, people reported feeling happier and more compassionate around fresh-cut flowers.

Many of Mr. Rogers’ sweaters were knitted by his mom!

• Women purchase 80% of all Mother’s Day cards;

• Approximately 65% of all card purchase occur in the last 5 days before Mother’s Day

In just the U.S. approximately 122 million phone calls are made to moms on their special day.

It comes in only after Christmas and Easter.

We sure love our moms!