Before the cards and flowers, before the brunch reservations and social media posts, Mother’s Day began as something quieter and more powerful. In the years following the Civil War, activist Ann Reeves Jarvis organized community care efforts and pushed for reconciliation. Her daughter, Anna Jarvis, would later hold the first formal Mother’s Day service in 1908 as a tribute to her mother’s tireless service.
By 1914, the day had gone national. But Anna Jarvis would come to regret what it became. She spent the rest of her life fighting the commercialization of the holiday she helped create. She wanted no merchandise, no profit. Just connection, reflection, and heartfelt thanks.
And maybe this year, we can give it back to her.
At Worthington Realty, we believe Mother’s Day is more than a date on the calendar. It’s a chance to return to what the day was meant to be: a celebration of love that doesn’t need a gift receipt.
When Is Mother’s Day 2025?
Mother’s Day falls on Sunday, May 11 this year. Whether you’re planning a simple gesture or a meaningful experience, you’ve still got time to make it count.
Mother’s Day Gift Ideas 2025
Ask most moms what they want for Mother’s Day, and the answer isn’t wrapped in a bow. It’s much simpler and far more lasting:
- A moment of peace
- A sign of appreciation
- A call or visit that doesn’t come with an agenda
- A clean kitchen or a cooked meal
- A card that says more than “Love you, Mom”
Many mothers share that what they want most is to feel recognized for all they do, not just as caregivers, but as whole people. Because everyone, including our moms, deserves to feel seen, heard, and valued. That recognition looks different as kids grow. For young children, it might be good behavior and a handmade card. For adult children, it might be a heartfelt conversation or help with daily life. So what’s the constant? Connection.
What Moms Want For Their Children
Behind every bedtime story, every packed lunch, every moment of worry or joy, there’s a deeper hope: that their children will be happy.
That doesn’t always mean straight A’s or prestigious jobs. Often, it means something more meaningful:
- Emotional and physical health
- A purpose-driven life
- Wisdom and independence
- Strong, healthy relationships
Across cultures and backgrounds, mothers consistently hope their children will find meaning, make good choices, and know how to get back up when life knocks them down. That kind of success isn’t something you can hand over. It’s modeled through patience and nurtured over time, and that’s what we celebrate.
Thoughtful Ways to Celebrate (That Don’t Cost a Thing)
If you want to give your mom something meaningful this year, you don’t need a shopping cart. Try something rooted in effort and attention:
- Write her a letter filled with specific memories and thanks.
- Spend the afternoon doing whatever she chooses.
- Handle the tasks she usually takes care of without being asked.
- Plan a low-key picnic, beach day, or movie night.
- Visit and simply ask her, “What would make today feel special for you?”
These ideas reflect the original intent of Mother’s Day. When Anna Jarvis first advocated for it, she imagined a quiet day of reflection and gratitude, not gift cards and shopping sprees. What she fought for is what many moms still want: to feel loved in ways that matter.
Celebrating in Southwest Florida
If you’re in Southwest Florida, Mother’s Day offers a great excuse to get out and share an experience. Whether your mom enjoys nature, art, or a peaceful stroll, here are a few local spots that offer meaningful experiences without the price tag:
Art & Culture
- Alliance for the Arts, “The Future of Art” Student Exhibition (May 2, 24)
Celebrate creativity by exploring artwork from Lee County students. The exhibition is free and open to the public, with gallery hours Tuesday, Friday (9 a.m., 7 p.m.) and Saturday (9 a.m., 1 p.m.). - Tribby Arts Center, “Winners Circle 2025” Exhibition (Through May 10)
View award-winning pieces from Southwest Florida artists. Admission is free, and the exhibit showcases a wide range of media.
Parks & Preserves
- Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve, A peaceful boardwalk through cypress wetlands teeming with wildlife.
- J.N. “Ding” Darling Wildlife Refuge, Birdwatching, biking, or driving the scenic four-mile loop.
- Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, A shaded boardwalk through one of the most biodiverse landscapes in the region.
Beaches
- Lover’s Key State Park, A quiet beach with walking trails and plenty of wildlife sightings.
- Barefoot Beach Preserve, A natural shoreline perfect for shelling or dolphin-spotting.
- Bowman’s Beach, A serene setting with space to picnic, walk, or relax in the sand.
These outings aren’t about checking a box or filling time. They’re a way to create shared experiences, and for many moms, that’s the most meaningful gift of all.
A Final Word From Worthington Realty
Ann Reeves Jarvis dedicated much of her life to organizing Mothers’ Day Work Clubs focused on improving public health and sanitation. In the years following the Civil War, she also worked to bring divided communities back together through events like Mothers’ Friendship Day. Her daughter Anna turned that legacy into a national holiday, and then spent the rest of her life trying to protect it.
It’s easy to forget that story when we’re rushing between brunch and errands. But we think it matters.
This Mother’s Day, let’s reclaim the heart of the holiday, and maybe, take a cue from Ann Reeves Jarvis herself. Let’s set aside our differences, even just for a day. No matter our background or beliefs, we’ve all been shaped by someone who gave us care. And maybe, just maybe, that’s enough common ground to remind us what we share.
Let’s show up for the mothers and grandmothers and women who shaped our lives. Let’s offer them what they gave us so freely: time, love, and the knowledge that they are seen.
From all of us at Worthington Realty, Happy Mother’s Day.
Need help finding the right home for the woman who gave you everything? Reach out when you’re ready to talk.
