Mother’s Day takes place in numerous countries around the world. Though not always celebrated on the same date, the spirit of the day is consistent—to pay tribute to the selfless care and love bestowed on us by Mum by spoiling her for the day.
Way back in antiquity, both the Greeks and Romans hosted festivals in honour of their mother goddesses, Rhea and Cybele, celebrations that later morphed into the Christian traditions of Mothering Sunday observed throughout much of Europe. Mother’s Day in the UK can be traced back to at least the 16th century, and falls on the fourth Sunday of Lent—a time when children were expected to visit church with their families and give flowers to their mums.
Here in New Zealand we follow the USA’s lead, observing Mother’s Day on the second Sunday of May. It’s a tradition that’s thought to honour 19th century social activists Julia Ward Howe and Ann Jarvis who, independently, organised rallies, festivals and events to promote women’s rights.
If that’s not enough inspiration, and you’re stuck for ideas on how to treat your special mum, have no fear, for we’re here at The Boundary to help you out. Breakfast in bed is of course a wonderful way to begin the day of spoiling Mum, as too is a slap-up brekky in a cafe. Esquires not only has the most enticing of menus, but throughout May is honouring mums with giveaways with prices including shopping vouchers and spa treatments. Mums with a sweet tooth—which we reckon is just about all of them!—sure would appreciate a trip to The Cheesecake Shop to indulge in the likes of a Belgian double chocolate mudcake or a black forest torte.
As for gifts, Trade Aid has an enormous selection of ethically made and sourced items—what mum wouldn’t love a hand made piece of jewellery or a scarf while knowing that proceeds from the purchase would be going to a good cause? Ballentynes is offering special Mother’s Day gift vouchers, allowing mothers to make the most of deals such as 25 percent off knitwear as well as a massive range of clothing, shoes (a mum favourite!) and accessories; while those with sporty mums should head to Rebel Sports who have a new range of Adidas gym wear, as well as the usual collection of further high-end fitness clothing and equipment.
With winter fast approaching, Kmart have a wonderful collection of snugly gowns and pyjama sets, as well as craft and stationery ideas especially for Mother’s Day, and Briscoe’s are also paying tribute to the special day by offering a massive sale (up to 60 percent off) on the likes of electric blankets and pillows and other homewares. We’re especially loving the wine and champagne glass collections, cutlery sets and cute artwork-adorned cups and mugs.
Happy shopping, and Happy Mother’s Day!
