Rose Garden

May 8 (UPI) — President Donald Trump on Friday delivered a Mother’s Day address as he hosted Gold Star Mothers and Angel Mothers in the White House Rose Garden.

Starting with his own mother, Trump thanked mothers across the country in a 20-minute speech that included specific thanks for mothers in the audience and those who work for his administration.

“I want to thank every single mother here this afternoon and all across our nation for your work,” Trump said.

“Every single day, America’s moms are raising — really — raising the future of our country … You have the most important job there is in America or any place else, and you’re doing an incredible job,” he said.

During the speech, Trump honored the mothers of children who died in crimes linked to illegal immigrants, whom he has dubbed Angel Mothers, noting that he hoped to prevent their ranks from growing due to “open borders” and what his administration has in pursuit of that goal.

The president honored Gold Star Mothers — the mothers of members of the military who have been killed in action — some of whom in attendance lost children during the war in Afghanistan.

Questioning whether “time heals all wounds,” Trump said that “our hearts are out to you on Mother’s Day.”

He also spoke about legislative and executive actions his administration has meant to benefit mothers and families.

“We’re honored to be joined by many strong and truly heroic moms who have stood up for their children,” he said, wishing them a Mother’s Day “filled with love and gratitude and joy.”

Peony gardens burst into colour for a short time

Lasting just eight brief weeks, the peony season is one of the most breath-taking but brief highlights of the spring diary.

This year, it’s arriving at an ideal moment, as sunnier spells begin. Bloom and Wild has identified excellent viewing spots throughout the UK where visitors can admire the stunning pink peonies in full bloom.

Peonies hold special status as a national favourite during springtime, with the flower specialists noting that people purchase them for personal enjoyment twice as frequently as any other bloom.

Penshurst Place and Gardens, Kent

Boasting one of Britain’s most spectacular peony exhibitions, this features a 100-metre-long border brimming with delicate pinks, whites and classic varieties such as Sarah Bernhardt, creating a romantic backdrop perfectly suited to a spring stroll.

The peonies generally flower from late May through to early June, though enthusiasts and Kent locals can register for Penshurst’s ‘peony alert list’ to receive notifications tracking the border’s development, informing them when early blooms appear and when peak flowering approaches.

Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Hampshire

Home to an impressive peony border created in partnership with Kelways Nursery, featuring approximately 70 varieties displayed as a chronological journey from early cultivars to contemporary hybrids. Visitors can explore everything from traditional herbaceous and tree peonies to numerous other varieties, celebrated for blending the finest characteristics of both in a striking array of colours.

Spetchley Park Gardens, Worcestershire

Boasting one of Britain’s largest private peony collections, these gardens offer something slightly less manicured and more evocative. Expect expansive displays, flowering trees and an air of tranquil enchantment, with specimens originally gathered by renowned horticulturists, including Ernest Wilson.

University of Bristol Botanic Garden, Bristol

A hidden treasure for late spring flowering, providing a more secluded, intimate atmosphere. Within the Chinese Herb Garden, a dedicated peony showcase merges botanical importance with the aesthetic of traditional Suzhou gardens.

Cambridge University Botanic Garden, Cambridge

Recognised for its varied and historic plant collections, including notable varieties such as Paeonia suffruticosa. A tranquil location to observe blooms closely in a more carefully arranged environment.

Sheffield Botanical Gardens, Sheffield

A northern gem for seasonal displays, where the Three Island Beds transform beautifully throughout spring and summer. Early bulbs transition to blush-hued peonies, alongside poppies, roses and geraniums, before late-season textures emerge.