They snacked, they sipped and they socialized, all part of an annual tradition at Mandalay Elementary School to celebrate an important person in every family. The Special Ladies Tea on May 7 took place in advance of Mother’s Day and kindergartners were excited to welcome their beloved guests. 

Before the event, youngsters worked hard on gifts for their mothers, including sunshine placemats and cards. They also wrote nonfiction books, “My Mother: A True Story,” documenting all they love about their moms. 

In the classrooms, the mothers sipped on iced tea while their children had juice boxes, and together they enjoyed cookies and cupcakes. Students sang “You are My Sunshine” before working with their mothers on crafts such as bookmarks, bracelets and mason jar flower pots.