Being a full-time mother is one of the highest salaried jobs in my field, since the payment is pure love. -- Mildred B. Vermont

Eight of her twelve children had been baptized in tears of grief. For Ana Maria Jarvis the Civil War was far from civil. It didnt seem fair that a mother should outlive so many children, yet she did. In doing so, Ana left a legacy that was adopted and championed by an unmarried daughter who shared her mothers name.

In 1905, the younger Ana would baptize her mothers grave in her own tears and begin a quest to bring attention to the incredible gift of mothering.

Two years later, Ana Jarvis sought to have Mothers Day recognized on a national level. The second Sunday in May was the second anniversary of the death of Anas mother so this was a logical choice for Jarvis. Ana lobbied politicians to accept the notion of a day set aside to honor mothers. By 1911 the day was celebrated in almost every state in the union.

The tradition did not stop in America either. This special holiday is now recognized in many countries around the world.

More than a century has passed since the mother of inspiration passed away, and yet it is her legacy that is reflected in the admiration of multiple generations for the tradition of motherhood.

The choice of a Mothers Day gift is a common celebration of that tradition. Special care should be exercised when seeking out a gift that proclaims a willingness to attempt to pay a debt that can never fully be repaid.

A gourmet gift such as an Oil and Vinegar Set can pay homage to the grand tradition of Mothers Day in a way that brings a stroke of brilliant elegance and style to the occasion.

Gifts for the kitchen or that will ultimately tempt the palate are perfect for Mothers Day gift giving primarily because moms spend so much time in the kitchen. Gifts that aid in meal preparations or pamper the taste buds are a welcome departure from more familiar gifts.

A kitchen gift may even indicate a willingness to return for a well anticipated meal with mom. Spending time with our mothers is important in maintaining closeness throughout the years. A Mothers Day kitchen gift speaks volumes in regards to individual thoughtfulness, creativity and degree of kindness.

Its possible to become so caught up in our own worlds that we forget the moments in childhood when our jelly-stained hands would reach for moms and wed gaze into her eyes wondering why we couldnt marry her or how much we wanted to be like her when we grew up.

Should you be able to take the second Sunday in May to personally express your appreciation for your Mother, be sure to take along a special gift that says you care. Then, consider investing some of your time with your mom. Grab her hand and look into her eyes and allow yourself to recapture the wonder of childhood. Youre in the midst of greatness.

We owe a debt of gratitude to Ana Jarvis for her persistent call for a day to honor the esteemed calling of motherhood. I think Ana would agree that, when it comes to motherhood, a lifetime is not nearly enough time to say thanks.