AARP Rewards Mother's Day Contest 2026!

[AARPTeri]

Mother's Day is all about love, laughter... and the moments that make moms so special!

Share your Mother's Day tribute by hitting reply to this post - it can be funny, heartfelt or totally unique! Whether it's a funny memory, a simple thank you, or a life lesson she shared - we want to hear about it! 

Not only will you spread some joy, but you will also have a chance to win a special reward, because great stories deserve great prizes!

Need inspiration? Try one of these prompts to get you started!

• The moment my mom totally saved the day for me...
• If my mom had a superpower, it would be...
• Something my mom/inspiring woman in my life told me was...

No purchase necessary to win!  Be sure your entry is your own original story!  Keep it kind, respectful and fun! Check out the official rules here: View Contest Rules

Play our new Mother's Day Mahjong Solitaire Game!

We also have Mother's Day egreeting cards in Rewards, you can view them here 

[hays4bes]

My favorite Mothers' Day memory is the day I became a mother.  I was 22 years old and 7 months pregnant on Mothers' Day in May 1966.  I was in line at the grocery store getting last minute items for dinner, and my water broke.  I drove home, and my Mother immediately went into action. She was a nurse and knew I did not like hospitals, so, she prepped me right there at home before we went to the hospital. I became a mother and Mother became a grandmother about 5 hours later. I had a daughter, who weighed 5 pounds 3 ounces. She was a beautiful and healthy premmie. We went home 3 days later. 

My Mother passed in 2003 at the age of 80. We used to speak on the telephone everyday. I traveled a lot for work and would call her from my hotel or rented rooms whereever I was. I miss her so much. Without thinking, I still pick up the telephone to call her.(LOL)  

Evangelist Janet Hays-Forbes

  jhaysf@pacbell.net

[d918842c]

My favorite Mothers Day memory is the year my daughter and her 2 year old daughter got up early on Mothers Day and went to every vacant lot and pasture nearby and picked wildflowers. When I woke up, there were flowers in my bedroom, the bathroom, the living room and the kitchen! Every available surface was filled with vases of flowers! When I thanked them, she cried because she couldn't  afford to buy me any presents! I told her there was nothing she could buy better than the flowers and her thoughtfulness, and that precious little grandchild!

[DanneB372073]

My daughter took me on a trip to Rosarita, MX . We walked across the border into Tijuana and went to Hotel Caesar to have lunch. Of course we got the famous Caesar salad . It was great. We caught an Uber to Rosarito to our Airbnb right on the beach. It was so beautiful.  We did s I me shopping had some great tacos and listened to some great music. 

[FunmilayoG941133]

My mom taught me to live within my income and also stress the importance of dignity of earning my own income. I have passed the same message to my daughter who is now 22 years old.

Few years ago, we spent mother's day weekend in participating in a program organized for Cancer Survivors.

[KathyT63163]

When my son was just 9, he planned a Mothers day for us to spend the whole day together.  We started at one of our favorite Cincinnati places, the Zoo, followed by lunch at my favorite Indian restaurant.  After that we went to Northern Kentucky's Devou Park for a concert.  We finished our day at another of my favorite places - Pirate's Cove on the Ohio River.  Best Mothers Day ever!

[JudithM906150]

My mother was getting ready to deliver my twin brothers. On Mother's Day she had the first four of us kids scrubbed and dressed for church where services were difficult for twitchy youngsters to sit through because the priest was very, very long winded. Just as it was time to step out the door my mother leaned hard against the door and told me to call my father home from work because it was time. She gave us three gifts that day, my twin brothers and a respite from long sermons.

[Shera1115]

369.38 KB of 369.38 KB

 I was never fortunate enough to ever have bio kids of my own, so when a young woman we helped wanted to call Mom, my heart just melted. I may have not created the people I claim as my kids, but God gave me my God children and continues to bless me. 

[cm83974513]

My mother baked the best lemon glazed pound cake ever. Everyone talks about her cake. People always called her to bake this cake for special occasions. Well, my mother taught me how to bake her cake. She was hands on in helping me. She turned the cake out of the pan on to the plate because she didn't think I would do it correct. I wrote down every step from the ingredients to baking to making the lemon glaze. Of course I didn't have the technique down as to how to apply the glaze. She took the spoon from me and glazed the cake. She made it look so easy. Some how, it just wasn't that easy for me. I now know how to bake her cake. She will be 90 this year and no longer bake. I will forever hold this dear to my heart.

[WebWiseWoman]

Shera, thank you for sharing this important message! And thank you and your partner and your daughter for being the strong people you are!

[JoanneC765686]

I grew up on a dairy farm in the Midwest. My family wasn’t poor but we never had much disposable income. One year my cousin received a beautiful bride doll for Christmas and I told my Mom that’s what I wanted for Christmas. Of course, my family couldn’t afford it - I only ever had one doll as a child, but when Christmas came I received the miost beautiful bridal dress and veil for the doll I already had. Fast forward to the day I got engaged and was thinking of wearing my Mom’s bridal gown if she still had it. She said she didn’t- she had cut it up to make the bridal gown for my doll - all those years ago. One of my most important memories is of her - working late into the night - after I was asleep - to ensure I had a bride doll like my cousin. My Mom’s entire life was one sacrifice after another for her family

[DeborahD807571]

I'm so blessed tobe able to spend a nother Mothers Day with my daughter who has been fighting stage 4colon cancer..Hopefully she will be NED in june.

[MaryD989907]

My mom always had a smile on her face and something positive to say no matter who she met. She always said you never know what someone is going through just a smile or words would make their day. I now do that encourage others.

[Debsab]

in 1985, when my son was a kindergartener, he adamantly declared to me that he was treating me to breakfast for Mother’s Day. He then asked if I thought McDonald’s would be okay. My face lit up and I told him that would be perfect! With a look of relief on his face he said, “ I’m so glad that you don’t mind because I only have a little bit of money. But, when I’m all grown up and I get a good job we will go to a really nice restaurant!” That was 41 years ago and the tradition is still going strong. Even though I see him all the time, this is our special morning once a year and it is very meaningful to both of us. Every year as we enjoy each others company and our breakfast, always in a new and exciting place, I think back on our egg McMuffins from so many years ago and it’s bittersweet. The time has gone by so quickly, but we filled these passing years with so much love, family traditions and beautiful memories. This year we decided we are going back to McDonald’s where it all started, just because. I can’t wait to share more precious time over our McMuffins. I may even have him order a happy meal just for old times sake!!

Happy Mother’s Day to all🫶🏻

[JohnK849563]

My mom was always a great cook. Our home was frequently the host home for family and friends and my mom frequently said, "We can always put another bean in the pot for added guests". On the occasion of my dad's 80th birthday, she prepared so much food, nearly every horizonal surface of the house was laden with all of the delicious foods that she prepared. With almost 100 people celebrating my dad's birthday, my mom made sure that no one left hungry. I think that the kitchen table might actually still have a permanent sag in the middle now after holding so much food. Good times, great food, and fond memories. Mom was the best and we all still miss her so.

[mtnmama58]

My Mom was diagnosed with terminal lymphoma on May 7, 2001, six days before Mother's Day that year. When she called to tell me what the doctor had said I couldn't wrap my head around what she had said for a few minutes. We had already planned for her to visit my daughter and I on Mother's Day weekend before she went to the doctor. On the way back to my apartment from picking her up at the nursing home, I noticed her hand laying on her seat next to the middle console. I gently laid my hand on top of hers all the while knowing it was a special memory I intended to keep the remainder of her days and mine. Our weekend was all the more special knowing her time was short. We went out to eat and then visited my son, his wife and their little boy, Mama's first great-grandchild. The visit was full of laughter due to Mama's sense of humor. You just never knew what she would say! Three weeks later, we buried her. It was all over way too fast but the memories of that special Mother's Day lives on in my heart. Miss you Mama...always!

[DorothyM464543]

Hi there,

I have a heart-felt Mothers day story.  My infant son born almost 39 years ago was born very premature and the doctors did not hold out much hope for his survival but in spite of everything, he survuved and then I was faced with awful truth, as I was told if he ever walked, he would never run and so many other negative things.  Almost 9 years ago, he had completed a marathon in all 50 states and then about 2 years ago, he gave me the greatest gift ever, when his son was born.  I couldnt be more proud of him and his little baby (who. is now a toddler) On Mothers day, the baby looked at me and said "Happy Mothers day Nona"!!  It was hard to hold back the tears as my son's legacy had come full circle.  

Thanks for letting me share this moment!!

Libby Mehrens

[Kris710]

My most special and memorable Mother's Day - and maybe my best, for existential reasons-  occurred back in the late 1990s, when I was a single mom, and my son was 12. We were living hand-to-mouth in NH, rarely having the funds to go anywhere. But it was a special day, so we excitedly decided to celebrate it at an indigenous powwow about an hour north of us. We loved powwows, and considered them sacred time.

We hit the highway, and about 40 minutes north, my little SUV engine burst into flames! I pulled over, and hoped for some safe help to come along, as there were no cell phones in those days. Sure enough a good Samaritan stopped and assessed our situation, and gave us a ride up to the town where the powwow was being held, but to a mechanic and towing shop, instead. I don't remember how, on a Sunday, the place was open, or if this person knew the mechanic, but this was small town connectivity, and somehow, things happened in our favor. With towing and repairs, I knew this would deeply hurt my finances, and I was feeling it. Worse, after the mechanic picked up our vehicle and brought it back to his shop, he discovered that he would not be able to repair it. This meant paying for my vehicle to be towed yet again an hour south to our little town where my regular mechanic would (hopefully) be able to repair it. 

Throughout this hours-long ordeal full of standing, waiting and phone calls, my son and I were living in the moment and feeling some despair. As I was making the plans with AAA over the phone for the tow back home, I was asked when I wanted my vehicle picked up, and felt this weird little happy jolt inside me as I unexpectedly said 5:00PM. I had no idea until it happened that that was going to come out of my mouth. But it felt exactly right. The vehicle could wait, but our time as a family could not. We were going to that powwow. And I will never forget the look of joy on my son's face as he heard me say this, and realized that the day was NOT lost, but FOUND anew.

We both learned something that day. Moving through challenges is about choice and rising above. No, an engine fire did not stop us that day, which turned out to be one of our most magical. In fact, my years of raising my son were all magical, and I am forever grateful he chose me to be his mom. 

[AMFields2024]

There are moments in life when a single person changes the entire direction of our future. After being abandoned by my biological mother in December 1978, my life stood at a crossroads filled with uncertainty, heartbreak, and unanswered questions. Then, just two months later, Helen Louise Brandenburg Barks came into my life and became far more than a surrogate mother—she became my mom in every sense that truly matters. When my life could have turned down the wrong path, she arrived at exactly the right moment to guide me toward a better one.

Her love, patience, and unwavering presence gave me stability when I needed it most. Because of her, I learned what unconditional love looked like and what true family felt like. She believed in me during moments when I struggled to believe in myself, and her influence shaped the decisions that led me toward a far greater and more promising life. Every good choice, every lesson in compassion, and every ounce of strength I carry today has roots in the care and wisdom she poured into me over the years.

Even though twelve years have passed since her passing, her spirit and emotional presence remain alive within me and within my children. The legacy she created did not end with her life—it continues through the values she instilled, the love she shared, and the example she set. My children know her not only through stories, but through the kindness, resilience, and love that she helped build within our family. Her fingerprints are forever on our hearts and woven deeply into the fabric of our lives.

Not a single day goes by that my thoughts do not drift toward her. My heart still spends time with her in quiet moments, cherished memories, and the endless gratitude I feel for the woman who rescued me when I needed saving the most. I carry her love with me every day, and I always will. Helen Louise Brandenburg Barks was not simply the woman who stepped in—she was the mother who chose me, loved me, and forever changed my life.

Though our blood lines never crossed, my love for her goes deeper than that of most blood relatives. She did not just save the day for me, but that of my life as a whole with her presence, her love, and continued guidance.

[ShannonM950098]

Mother's Day 2003 was the last celebration I had with my mama. She was my first and best friend ❤️ I have so many memories of our trips together, to Maggie Valley or just to Walmart. We argued from time to time, after missing her for 23 years, those have become blurred. She was a typical Mama Bear and my greatest champion throughout my life. She cried with me, laughed with me and helped me out whenever I needed her. She was only 59 when she passed. In closing Mother's Day is a bittersweet day for me. However I know how much I was loved and I loved her. Miss you Mama and know I'll see you when I get there ❣️🙏❤️😻

[annrico1]

Mom is gone, but not forgotten. She gave us 4 kids every opportunity she could afford. Music lessons, attending plays, nature excursions, and little travel trips. Did the best she could with not a lot of paternal support.

[DavidP797584]

One thing you have to know about my mom is that she is a fearless adventurer.  The stories about here are endless as she inspires our whole family to take chances and enjoy life to the fullest.  One memory I will never forget is the time we went to see the Shuttle Discovery's last launch from Kennedy Space Center.  It was something I always wanted to experience, and I knew my mom would be up for joining me.  Growing up I remember tagging along with my mom as she took flying lessons and eventually getting her private pilot's license.  I do believe that is where I got my love for all things aviation and space.  I knew I wanted to do something to surprise her on our trip to see the launch at Kennedy Space Center, so I called around to a couple local airports looking for interesting things to do.  I came across a guy who gave rides in his side-by-side pusher style open air ultralight.  Of course, when we arrived that day at the airport and I told her what the opportunity was she jumped at it and said yes.  Not only was that a great adventure but spending the next day with her and watching the shuttle launch from the Kennedy Space Center causeway just me and my mom are cherished moments.  I could write a book about her accomplishments, the person she is, the devotion she showed to us for God, family and country.  That's an idea... maybe I just will.  But to me... she's just my amazing mom!  Love you Mom

[TracyR434383]

My mom, my youngest brother and I were driving to South Carolina (long ago in the days before cell phones) for me to take the University of South Carolina journalism school test. I was a ball of nerves; yes, nervous about the test, but also because the plan was to drive halfway from NY and stay at a hotel, then drive the rest of the way to SC the next day - same day as the test. I thought that was cutting it too closely.

Everything was going to plan on day 2…until we ran out of gas. No phones. My mom was apologetic and embarrassed, and I was a snotty teenager seething with “I told you so” rage. We got out of the car and walked about a mile in the Carolina heat…until we saw a sign reading “If your car breaks down STAY WITH YOUR CAR.” So then we had to walk the hot mile back to the car. 

I watched the time for my test come and go as we sat in the stiflingly hot car waiting for help. At last the police came and gave us enough gas to get to a station at the next exit. 

We weren’t far from the university at this point. We found a motel, where my mom checked us in. I was to call the university and explain what happened and ask to take the test tomorrow. She would go out and find us something to eat, as we were starving and thirsty. 

An hour passed. Then two. All of my rage melted, to become a frozen chunk in my heart. She was dead in a ditch somewhere, and my last words to her were spoken in anger. My little brother was beside himself with fear. I didn’t know what to do. 

Suddenly the hotel room phone rang - it was the police. The second they identified themselves my knees gave way. I thought my worst fears had been realized. 

It turned out that my mom, in the frenzy of broken down car/angry daughter/exhausted hungry little son/missed journalism test, had forgotten what motel she’d put us in - all that she remembered was that it had a number in it. So she went to the police, and they called every Motel 6, Hotel 8, and every other stay over in the area with a number in it until they found us. 

She finally returned…with a pizza, a bucket of chicken, bags of candy and snacks, soda, and a six pack of Rolling Rock beer. I tearfully apologized for my behavior, and she apologized for missing my test. 

Then, she offered me a beer. I thought it might be a trick. But when she saw me hesitate, she said I’d be 21 in 2 years, and had just undergone a pretty adult hell-of-a-day and deserved a beer.

I’ve never tasted a more delicious beer. To this day, Rolling Rock isn’t easy to find by me - but when I do see it, I have one, and remember the day I had my first adult hell-of-a-day beer with my mom.

[connisusan]

'My favorite Mother’s Day with my son's was a couple of years ago, We rented an airbnb in Michigan. Between the two of them and their wives, I have 5 grandchildren under the age of 15. We spent our time on the beach, grilling out, shopping, picking berries and playing games.  It was a blast!! Had such a great time, great memories and photographs. 

[c568734h]

It became tradition that the weekend of Mother's Day, the Baden Powell Boy Scouts would hold a Cub Adventure. Myself and Carol as well as the best volunteers would put together the  most what we considered to be entertain time for the Family. One year we decided to make it a Drive in so that they could sit outside in the cars they created out of boxes an watch a Family friendly movie. My own Mother was their to assist in putting together the cars. They were creative and interesting. That night unfortunately the weather turned and it rained so we had the movie night inside. I wasn't aware the imp that that adventure had till years later when I was doing a Craft training for some of "our" boys and one looked at me and said " Your the Lady that helped at Adventure weekend " I nodded in response. "I remember making cars out of cardboard to watch a movie,, that was the best one ever". We thought we had fail but obviously we didn't.

[RhondaD1962]

My favorite Mothers Day was my first one after my sweet daughter was born, I celebrated with my Mama & we went to church and spent a beautiful day together, Mama is gone now but the sweet memories with her & the ones that r still being made with my daughter are forever in my heart. 

[Lazeesusan]

My favorite Mother’s Day was when my boys were young. We made it a tradition to go out for every meal of the day and in between play soccer in the front lawn. They never wanted to see me do any type of work. 

[HeatherJ188102]

My mom came to Alaska last year and we spent 4 months exploring, watching bears, eagles, whales, and salmon.  It was such a great experience!!

[ThereseH493686]

My story is really about my father's famous Mother's Day brunches. Mom would set the table with the good china and get Dad started in the kitchen, then Dad took over all the cooking. With a little help from my brother-in-law, the spread that came out of that little kitchen would rival any restaurant. We had toast and biscuits, creamed chipped beef, a huge bowl of fluffy scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, home fries from scratch and orange juice. We finished with something from the bakery and coffee. The gentlemen would clear the table and load the dishwasher while the ladies got to relax. When my husband joined the family, he was amazed by this, and still talks about Dad's brunches. My Mom liked to entertain and always put on a nice spread. This was Dad's way to thank her for all she did to make other holidays happen. We miss them both.

[KarenS137468]

Many years ago, I think it was in the early 2000s, I took my Mom to lunch on Mother's Day to her favorite neighborhood diner. She wasn't using a cane yet, but she did like to take my arm as we walked together. As we exited the diner and started to walk back to her apartment, a man noticed our arm-arm-progress and came towards us to say "I lost my Mom 20 years ago. You're very lucky." I've thought of that moment many times since my Mom passed away in 2013, especially on Mother's Day, and know beyond words how lucky I was to have her as long as I did.