About Mother's Day
“A mother understands what a child does not say.” Jewish proverb.
Today’s mums are very different than mothers of yesteryear. As Mother’s Day approaches, let’s look at a few of those differences.
- Since 1970, the median age of new mothers has increased by three years. Today’s median age for first-time mothers is 24.8 years.
- The odds on birthing twins are 1 in 33. The odds for triplets or more are 1 in 539.
- More babies are born in August than in any other month.
- More babies are born on Tuesday than on any other day of the week.
- Women are most susceptible to pregnancy between the ages of 18 and 19.
- When a baby girl is born, each ovary carries about one million egg cells.
“A mother is the truest friend we have. When trials, heavy and sudden, fall upon us; when adversity takes the place of prosperity; when friends who rejoice with us in our sunshine, desert us when troubles thicken around us, she will cling to us and endeavour by her kind precepts and counsels to dissipate the clouds of darkness, and cause peace to return to our hearts.” Washington Irving (1783-1859)
Today’s mothers multi-task, provide income, nurture their children and do the things mothers have had to do from the beginning. The only way to understand what mothers go through is to follow them for a day, a week, a month. It’s downright exhausting!
American's, Julia Ward Howe and Anna Jarvis borrowed a bit from the Greeks, a bit from the Romanians and a whole lot from the British Day of Mothering to pioneer a festival called Mother’s Day. Thanks to the efforts of these progressive women, President Woodrow Wilson of the United States approved a Resolution declaring the second Sunday in May as Mother’s day in 1914.
It is interesting to note that Wilson believed in mediation. After all, it was he who pushed for the League of Nations. Regardless, Mothers Day is now celebrated in 46 countries around the globe. Including of course, Australia, New Zealand. U.S. and India still, who still celebrate Mother's Day on the second Sunday in May.
Today, Mother’s Day festivities most often include dinner at home or at popular venues. Mother’s are showered with treats including sweets, flowers, jewelry and plants attesting to heartfelt admiration. Lately, mothers have been rewarded with trips to the day spa or beauty salon. Every mum is different. Every family celebrates differently.
Whether Mother’s day is celebrated on the second Sunday in May or not, this is the day for children to say, “Thank you, mum. I love you.” As long as it is from the heart, you will have made mum’s day.
For that extra special personal touch, create your own personalised Mother's Day card, perhaps by using an old baby photo, or one that captured a close moment between you and your mum. with a heart felt message.