As the nights get longer and the air a bit warmer we can feel we’re finally moving in Spring. Close to the official start of British summertime is a popular date in the family calendar - Mother’s Day. But why do we celebrate our Mum’s on this day? Apparently, the first Mother's Day celebrations can be traced back to the ancient Greek Festival dedicated to Rhea, the Mother of the Gods. But in England, it was in the 1600s when the phrase "Mothering Sunday" was first coined and dates back to Lords and Masters who would give their domestic servants a day off once a year specifically to visit their mothers. Children were often in service from a young age in those days and regularly travelled far from home to live at their position of employment. It’s said it was common practice by the children to pick wild flowers on their way home to give to their mother. Whilst thankfully the traditions of domestic child servants has disappeared, the custom of spending one day a year with their mothers remained and so now children show their love by giving their mother a Mothering Sunday card and present. Like other national ‘days’ Mothering Sunday has developed into a more commercial offering than its origins and is celebrated in a variety of ways around the globe. Ultimately though, it is always about telling and showing your Mum how much you love her! In 2009, Mother’s Day will be on Sunday 22nd March and what better way to celebrate a new season and a fabulous Mum than a party or family get together. If you’re looking for ways to make the day memorable, think thoughtful rather than expensive. Bright colourful decorations don’t cost much but bring a real sense of occasion to this special day that your Mum won’t forget. Banners, confetti and table party decoration can be taken to restaurants with you if you aren’t staying at home and co-ordinated cake boxes and party bags bring an element of goodies and fun for everyone to enjoy and take away. A novelty idea is a prize or ‘award’ which you can present to your Mum for being so great. Awards night type statues or ‘oscars’ can be quirky and entertaining and a foil balloon might seem a bit cheesy, but Mums love the fuss really! For simple yet thoughtful gifts that compliment your party planning, wherever you celebrate, think about your Mum’s favourite flowers, a beautiful spring plant or shrub, a favourite photo in a frame or a new novel. However, just inviting friends and family you don’t see every day to share some time can be the best gift. A party or gathering with even a few trimmings, whether large or small, always goes down well! To make it really special, you can theme it with her favourite colour or match a pretty design through the décor, party plates, napkins and other party supplies. It really is the small details than can make a big difference – women and especially Mums appreciate this stuff! (ArticlesBase SC #810792)