How Are YOU Celebrating Mother’s Day?

My mom reads my blog, so I’m not going to tell you what I’m doing for Mother’s Day (nice try, Mom!) but every year, Grandpa and I buy my grandma “blue” roses. They’re her favourite! 

They’re not always easy to find (you can read more about them in the Superman Duffy graphic novel 5-7-5 ErrandBoy), so Grandpa and I go on the hunt for them…starting tonight. That’s tradition!

It got me thinking about Mother’s Day traditions around the world—which are surprisingly different. 

Like, for instance, in Sweden, Mother’s Day is celebrated on the last weekend in May. A week or so before the big day, children sell flowers around their town, and any money raised is used to send mothers with small children on a trip. If she could go anywhere, my mom would pick France—she’s always wanted to see the Eiffel Tower!

In Pakistan, prayers are sent out country-wide to those who have lost their mothers. During this day, all moms are given a series of gifts and some of their favourite foods. If that’s how we celebrated here, my mom would ask for cheese. Lots and lots of cheese.

Mother’s Day is actually one of the more popular celebrations in Mexico, with schools and companies hosting major events. Plus, the moms receive their gifts on the eve of Mother’s Day. (Nice try, Mom, we don’t live in Mexico!)

In India, children make sure their moms have relaxing days, with handmade cards, prepared meals, and “spa” packages topping the list of gifts. Hmmm…my mom does love a good pedicure.

And in Japan, children are encouraged to draw pictures of their moms. (For this, I’d need the help of James Grasdal, the illustrator of the Superman Duffy graphic novels.) The illustrations are put on display, and each mother receives a red carnation or scarf.

At school on Monday, I’m going to ask some of the students in my class how they celebrated Mother’s Day. I wonder if my friend Gen—he’s from Japan—will buy his mom a red carnation? Maybe I’ll see him in the flower store when Grandpa and I are looking for Grandma’s blue roses!

Gotta jet! Hope you have a great weekend.

~ Chase Superman Duffy