Observed annually on the fourth Sunday in October, National Mother-in-Law Day is a holiday that honors the women who raised your significant other. Although mothers-in-law often get a bad rap in movies and television shows, they are still an important part of most people’s lives.

Having a good relationship with your mother-in-law can improve the relationship you have with your significant other. That’s why it’s a good reason to observe this holiday and give your mother-in-law the love and respect they deserve. While you’re at it, it wouldn’t hurt to throw your mother-in-law a compliment or two.

The History of National Mother-in-Law Day

This holiday was first created in the 1930s when the editor of a local Amarillo, Texas newspaper started it in honor of mothers-in-law. He modeled it after Mother’s Day, and the first time it was observed was on March 5, 1934. From there, it quickly spread across the U.S.

Facts About Mothers

Since we couldn’t find any interesting facts specifically about mothers-in-law, we thought we’d share some interesting facts about mothers. After all, mothers-in-law are mothers, so why not list some interesting facts about mothers below.

• In the U.S., there are approximately 82.5 million mothers.
• Across the world, there are over 2 billion mothers.
• The average mother will change approximately 7,300 diapers by the time her baby is 2 years old.
• In every language, the first sounds a baby vocalizes are the “m” and “ma” sounds.

Observing National Mother-in-Law Day

Paying your mother-in-law a compliment, giving her flowers, or showing your appreciation in some other way is a great method to observe this holiday. If your mother-in-law isn’t geographically close to you, you can even send her a text, call her, or give a shout-out over social media using the hashtag #NationalMotherInLawDay.