What Matters This Month: May 2023
We’ve certainly had enough April Showers bring on the May flowers!!! May comes from the Latin Maius, probably referring to the goddess Maia. She embodied the concept of growth, both in nature and in business. The birthstone for May is the emerald, representing love and success. Its birth flowers are the lily of the valley (Convallaria majalis) and the common hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna), also known as mayflower or maythorn. Watch out for all those Taurus and Gemini celebrating birthdays this month.
What to Celebrate
Cinco De Mayo is May 5 - This is a Mexican holiday commemorating the monumental victory in the Battle of Puebla over French invaders on May 5, 1862. While many Mexican Americans use this day to celebrate their heritage and culture, many other people can be seen celebrating and enjoying tacos and magaritas whether they understand why this day is a celebration or not!
Mother’s Day is May 14 - This second Sunday in May is the American day to celebrate the women who gave us life and those who nurture, guide and well mother us! You should make plans, buy her something special but at minimum - Don’t get on her nerves!
Memorial Day is May 29 - this last Monday of May is always Memorial Day in the US. While many appreciate having the day off from work, it truly is a day to remember and honor the lives of those who have fallen in service of their country. Their sacrifice is part of the reason why we are able to enjoy what we have today. While you are relaxing and enjoying the respit from work take some time to reflect and find a small or grand gesture if you are up to it, to recogize those who have committed to service.
Asian American and Pacific Islanders Month - May was selected as the month to honor AAPI citizens primarily for two important dates in American History: May 7, 1843, marks the arrival of the first Japanese immigrants to the United States. And May 10, 1869, or Golden Spike Day, recognizes the completion of the first transcontinental railroad in the U.S., which had significant contributions from Chinese workers. And Since 1990 we have nationaly and officially been celebrating the histories of Americans hailing from across the Asian continent and from the Pacific islands of Melanesia, Micronesia and Polynesia. Like many other cultures and people who have shaped America and more than ever before we welcome the representation and welcome the chance to highlight all it has to offer. Find ideas to celebrate HERE.
Jewish American Heritage Month - May also signifies the time hundreds of organizations and Americans of all backgrounds are joining together to discover, explore, and celebrate the vibrant and varied American Jewish experience from the dawn of our nation to the present day. The American Jewish Council recommends 5 ways to celebrate this occasion: take in a museum, curl up with a good book, binge watch a show, indulge in new recipes and listen to Jewish voices.
What to Buy
Spring apparel. By May, retailers will discount spring clothing that has already been hanging on racks for a month or two.
Furniture. Three of the biggest blowout shopping days are Black Friday, Labor Day and Memorial Day. Memorial Day is in May, so look for furniture and home decor discounts from big-box stores.
Small kitchen appliances. Use May discounts as an opportunity to buy small kitchen appliances, such as coffee makers and blenders. Typically, these products are included in Memorial Day sales, and they make great gifts for upcoming summer weddings.
What to Put on Your To-Do List
Eat more Fruits and vegatables day is May 21st - Yes that’s a thing. Find out what fruits and vegetables are in season HERE - Now that you know what to shop for find the nearest Farmers Market and head there ASAP!!
Hey if you are a teacher or know a teacher, you should know that we are celebrating them ALL MONTH LONG (Teacher Appreciation day was officially May 2nd this year and Teacher Appreciation Week is May 8 - 12). Find lots of deals to be had for the people who deserve everything and are shaping the minds of the future HERE and HERE!!!
Update your wardrobe - With summer around the corner it is a perfect time to add a few items to your wardrobe or at minimum try on that box of clothes from last summer to see what will work for this summer or what won’t.
What do you have on your calendar this month? What are you buying?
