From flowers to outings, Bay Area celebrates Mother's Day despite high gas prices

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- From flowers to family outings, Mother's Day celebrations were in full bloom across the Bay Area -- and even rising gas prices aren't stopping people from showing Mom some love.

At the San Francisco Flower Market, shoppers filled the aisles, searching for the perfect bouquet.

"I saw on the news this morning the market was open, so I had to come," said San Francisco resident Joshua Esquival.

The market, usually closed on Sundays, opened especially for Mother's Day -- and vendors were busy keeping up with demand. While many flowers are grown locally, others come from as far as Ecuador and Thailand. Higher fuel costs are making those imports more expensive.

"Gas prices impact not only me, but everybody," said Joe Phmah with Piazza Wholesale Flowers.

Still, he says he's doing his best to keep prices steady -- by simply selling more.

In Richmond, families celebrated aboard the historic SS Red Oak Victory, enjoying a one-of-a-kind pancake breakfast on a World War II ship.

"It's a unique venue -- everything is prepared in the galley," said Marketing Director Fred Klink.

For one local mom, the experience was especially meaningful.

"I grew up here and always saw the ship, but this is my first time on it," said Janea Faulk."It's really special."

Meanwhile in San Francisco, the Exploratorium welcomed families with special Mother's Day programming -- including live folklórico dance performances and "pay-what-you-wish" admission.

"We explored, played, touched everything -- it was fun," said visitor Yvette Campbell, who made the trip from San Jose despite gas prices.

Across the region, families are proving that no matter the cost, celebrating Mom is always worth the trip.