May is about many things - graduations, Memorial Day and Mother's Day. Mother's Day was started in the early twentieth century by West Virginian, Anna Jarvis, to honor her pacifist mother, who nursed soldiers of both sides during the Civil War, it has evolved. Miss Jarvis intended that family members hand write letters to their mothers expressing their love and appreciation. She trademarked "second Sunday in May" and "Mother's Day" in 1912. She had hoped it would become a national holiday, instead, in 1914, President Woodrow Wilson issued a Mother's Day proclamation, as have most presidents since. By the 1920s, Miss Jarvis began boycotting Mother's Day, threatening to sue companies like Hallmark Cards that she felt had usurped and commercialized the celebration for financial gain. She was arrested for demonstrating at a candy makers' convention in Philadelphia in 1925. Miss Jarvis aside, the Heritage Center has examples of greeting cards, as well as lovingly handwritten letters for many occasions, including Mother's Day. Cards have changed over the years. Once, a sentimental card and perhaps flowers and candy were considered appropriate and adequate gifts for Mother's Day. Contrast that with today's when the card is only the beginning. If mother is health-conscious and watching her weight, she'd probably prefer a weekend at a spa, a gym membership or a massage. Other mothers, might prefer scrap-booking equipment, a gift certificate for skydiving, a hot air balloon ride, or a new kayak. If dad gets roped into the celebration, it might mean a weekend, or even a week, at the beach or the mountains; at the very least, an elegant brunch or dinner at a romantic (and expensive restaurant). Times have changed.

Beth Daly