As we approach Mother’s Day and Father’s Day this year, we have much to reflect on. The Maine Crafts Association has missed the familiar faces of its patrons and members as people locked down and changed their lives to become teachers, caregivers and more during the pandemic. Many of you have been the glue holding everything together for your children, your parents, your businesses and yourselves. The importance and strain of these roles has been exemplified with each long day.

While MCA wishes they could give you a whole new perfect world in a handbasket with endless wine and chocolates, the best they can offer are special storewide sales.

A Mother’s Day sale will run from May 1 to 9.

Visit Maine Craft Portland at 521 Congress St., Portland. Found on the first floor of the beautiful Maine Mechanics Hall, Maine Craft Portland is located in the vibrant Arts District of Portland. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and Sundays by appointment. Call 207-808-8184, or email portland@mainecrafts.org for details.

The Center for Maine Craft is located at the West Gardiner Travel Plaza at 288 Lewiston Road West in Gardiner. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Call 207-588-0021, or email center@mainecrafts.org for details.

You can also shop online and find hundreds of artisan-made items sourced from the MCA retail galleries, shipped nationwide. Enter code THANKSMOM21 at checkout for 20% off your purchase. Code will be valid from midnight May 1 through May 9.