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When you really think about it, what don’t moms do? Since the day you were born, she’s loved and supported you – not to mention, she probably cooked, cleaned, had a job, and drove you to all those extra curricular activities. Even when you might not have realized it (those teenage years, anyone?), your mom always had your best interest at heart. That’s why each year, we spend one day honoring all that our mothers have done for us. And if part of the celebration includes getting your mom a little something special, it should be a carnation – the official flower of Mother’s Day. Below is a brief history about just how carnations became the symbol for motherhood.

The History of Mother’s Day

It’s believed the first celebrations honoring mothers were in Ancient Greece, when Romans held festivals in honor of the mother goddesses Rhea and Cybele. But it wasn’t until Europe in the early 1800s that we saw the first semblance of modern Mother’s Day. At the time, families in the UK and England celebrated “Mothering Sunday.” A day celebrated on the fourth Sunday of Lent, it encouraged people to travel back to their “mother church” – the first church they ever attended in their hometown – for a special service. Over the years, Mothering Sunday transitioned into a more secular holiday, known as Mother’s Day, and was celebrated by kids giving their mothers flowers and other small gifts.

Who Was Anna Jarvis?

Anna Jarvis is considered the founder of Mother’s Day here in America. The story goes that after her mother, whom she was very close with, passed away, Anna vowed to create a day dedicated to honoring mothers both alive and deceased. Continue Reading…

The best April Fool’s Day pranks are the ones that make everyone laugh — even the prankee. With this day of mischief and trickery right around the corner, now is the time to solidify yourself as the prankster of your office, family, or friend group (or all three!).

1. The Squirting Flower

No joke is more timeless than the good old squirting flower prank. All you need to pull off this classic “got-ya” joke is an artificial flower, a coffee straw that matches the color of your flower’s center, a small squirt bottle, and a medicine dropper. Throughout the day, ask people for a hug or to read something that’s printed on your shirt. When the time is right, discretely squeeze the bottle sitting in the pocket of your shirt or taped to your chest, and enjoy a good laugh! Continue Reading…

Though it was only observed by the United Nations for the first time in 1975, celebrating International Women’s Day on March 8, has been a time-honored tradition since the early 1900s. And like women, each year’s celebrations only seem to get stronger. In 2019, it’s estimated that women from over 120 countries will partake in International Women’s Day.

If you’re looking for ways to join the movement and celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women this International Women’s Day, we’ve got a few suggestions.

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With Valentine’s Day being in February and with weather being unpredictable, sometimes it is tough to plan the perfect Valentine’s Day date.  Whether you just met the person of your dreams, have been dating for a while, or are married with children, these fun date ideas are perfect in the rain, snow, or on a sunny day. So, if you’re looking for something different from dinner and a movie, here are some ways to make an ordinary date, extraordinary whether you have just a few hours after work, or the whole weekend.

Spend a Day at the Spa

Sometimes all the planning, dinner reservations and outfit changes are more stressful than fun. Instead of a typical night out, spend the day in at a spa. Relax in the steam room or get a massage and facial all at your own pace. And who knows, maybe you’ll pick up a tip or two from the masseuse that you can try on your loved one at home later. Continue Reading…

What’s the first thing that pops into your mind when we say, “Valentine?” Whether a boyfriend, girlfriend, husband, or wife, most of us are probably picturing a couple in love. But Valentine’s Day isn’t just for romantic couples anymore, it’s for all to enjoy!

Whether you have a significant other right now or are living the single life, make one of these beloved people in your life your special someone on Valentine’s Day. Continue Reading…