Mother's Day is a wonderful day to say thanks to our mothers. But it's also a reminder that we shouldn't wait for that one day per year to show our love and appreciation for someone so special to us. Books are a perfect reminder for displaying our love year round. Here are some outstanding picture book reminders to read and showcase for, and about, moms.

I will begin with two books that epitomize all that mom encompasses. An Angel to Watch Over Me, by Sally DeFord, is beautifully written as this prominent songwriter crystallizes in language close to the heart and touches what mom means to each of us. “She guarded my childhood and all through the years, She echoed my laughter, She counted my tears.” The turn of every page showcases a different renowned LDS painter with illustrations so breathtaking and beautiful that you can almost sense your own childhood before your very eyes.

The Happiest Mommy Ever, by Alice Furniss, and illustrated by Julie Olson, highlights a woman's life when her young son asks, “What is the happiest you've ever been?” The mom answers by giving an example of a high point of her life when she was little stating that when she was able to dance in a recital. From there each “happiest” point in her life progresses as she grows to maturity. Eventually she marries and shares her happiest moments - and that includes having him as a son! This book shows what's really important in life!

Always, by Ann Stott, and illustrated by Matt Phelan, asks the same question as a young boy wonders if his behavior is good or bad or when he makes mistakes. Will his mom still love him no matter what he does? The answer is in the title. This is a simple yet powerful story.

Mommy, Where are you?, by Leonid Gore, is a clever story about a cute little mouse in search for his mommy. Every time he believes he sees her peeking through foliage or fences, he discovers other animals. The device used here is partial pages hiding the animal and upon turning the smaller page, the animal is fully seen. This book is great fun to read as the reader tries to figure out which animal is hiding.

Welcome, Little One, by Sandra Magsamen, celebrates motherhood when she says “The first time…I looked into your sweet eyes”. There are many components that toddlers will love that include touch & feel, pop-ups and even a musical chip of Rock-a-Bye-Baby.

My Mom and Me, by Alyssa Satin Capucilli, and illustrated by Susan Mitchell, takes moms and their children from five different countries as they enjoy each other through the seasons. The double-folded extension on each page is a continuation of the couple's enjoyable activity.

What if you couldn't hug mama throughout an entire week? That's just what happened in No Hugs Till Saturday, by Julie Downing. When Felix goes against the rules in the house and throws a ball and breaks a vase, his mama puts him in time-out. When his penance is done, his mama asks for a hug, but in his anger he tells her not until the end of the week. Unfortunately, he soon discovers that's a long time to wait for a hug from his mom.

Here's a humorous celebration on the subject. The Cow That was the Best Moo-ther, by Andy Cutbill, and illustrated by Russell Ayto, is a hilarious story about a baby contest involving the baby cows on the farm. However, one particular cow doesn't seem to have an ordinary baby, but through her care and love, she ends up with the “best mom” award.

I want to conclude by mentioning the names of two books that deal with mothers that have passed away. Both of these books are excellent for those families facing this holiday with sadness in their hearts. Her Mother's Face , by Roddy Doyle, and illustrated by Freya Blackwood and Mother Poems , by Hope Anita Smith, help the grieving process with the likelihood of open discussions.