Mothering Sunday (UK)
Although it is often called Mothers’ Day, it is not the same holiday-nor does it share the same origins-as the American Mother’s Day.

In England, Mothering Sunday has a church-based origin. Most English churchgoers attend the nearest parish to their home, which is colloquially referred to as their “daughter church”. Historically, it was considered important for people to return to their “mother church”-either the church they grew up in or the main Cathedral in their area-at least once during the year. It became customary, therefore, that people would make this return visit on the forth Sunday of Lent…

…Historically, children would give their mothers small gifts on Mothering Sunday-usually wild flowers they picked on the way to church. Today, much like in the American version of Mother’s Day, children give presents, flowers, and cards to their mums.*

* The Story of Mothering Sunday in the UK

photo credit: via flickr

International Women’s Day
Today is a day dedicated to all women, especially working women. Celebrated on the anniversary of the 1857 march by female garment workers in New York, this day also marks the first international conference of women, held in Finland in 1910.

Mother-in-Law Day
Is it Halloween already???

Ok seriously folks – the last Sunday of October is set aside to honor mother-in-laws and their help, love, and contributions to the family.

image credit: via flickr

Today the White House released the official portrait of the First Family. Annie Leibovitz was the photographer.

President Barack Obama, First Lady Michelle Obama, and their daughters, Sasha and Malia, sit for a family portrait in the Green Room of the White House, Sept. 1, 2009. (Official White House Photo)

photo credit: The Official White House Photostream via flickr

World Menopause Day
Join in the international call to make menopausal health a principal research issue. In addition to the unpleasant side effects often associated with menopause, this life-changing event also triggers the onset of higher rates of osteoporosis, heart disease, colon cancer and other diseases.

Parent’s Day
A day for honoring and paying tribute to the men and women who bring love, stability and strength to the family and the country.

All hail the ‘rents!

photo credit: via flickr

Father & Daughter Take a Walk Day
With the beautiful weather outside now is the perfect time to take a father / daughter walk. Just the two of you.

Enjoy the beauty of the summer and the enjoyment of each other. Because before too long you’ll find yourself walking with her one last time; down the aisle.

photo credit: via flickr