Mother's Day gives us the perfect opportunity to thank our Mums for everything they do and express our appreciation with gifts, cards and kind words.
In the UK, this falls on the fourth Sunday in Lent and exactly three weeks before Easter Day, due to religious tradition.
Centuries ago, people visited their “mother” church in the middle of Lent, often travelling far and wide to reunite with family in their hometowns.
This was called "Mothering Sunday" and, according to historians, often saw children picking wild flowers for their mothers on the way to church.
The Mother’s Day we celebrate today draws mainly from American tradition, which was passed along from American to British soldiers during the Second World War.
When is Mother's Day 2019?
This year, Mother's Day falls on Sunday, March 31 in the UK. However different countries celebrate it at different times of year.
For example, countries such as the USA, Australia, Japan and New Zealand celebrate it on the second Sunday in May.
The reason the UK has a different date for Mother’s Day is because historically people were given the day off to return to their home and worship with their families.
Mother's Day gift ideas
Today, many feel that Mother's Day has become too commercial, favouring homemade or personalised gifts over spending money in the shops. So here's how to show your Mum how much she means to you without breaking the bank.
1. Bake her something
There’s something about homemade baking that wraps you up in a cocoon of love. Whether it’s a cake or brownies, your mum will appreciate the gesture more than you know.
2. Frame your favourite photo of the two of you together
While this one involves a little bit of money you can do it cheaply and make good use of one of the thousands of photos you have on your phone. If you have a bit of extra time, think of making a photo album for her of the two of you together.
3. Make her her favourite dinner
Your mum spent your childhood making you dinners so it’s time to return the favour. Head round to hers and make her favourite mac and cheese or a roast if you’re feeling fancy - and be sure to do the dishes afterwards.
4. Write her a letter
Perfect for if you live far away from your mum or if you struggle to articulate your feelings verbally, writing a mushy letter to tell her all the reasons you love and appreciate her will probably become one of her most prized possessions.
5. Make her a personalised cross stitch
Cross stitching is not only a great way to relax but it can be the perfect personalised gift if you’re creative but not much of an artist. Everyone can cross stitch, so follow a pattern and stitch her favourite quote or get fancy and do mini characters of your family members.
