Over the last few years, I've written often about my late mother Jean. She gave me many words to live by and was a true inspiration. I think of her a lot, especially on days like today, Mother's Day. Often when I have something on my mind, I think "What would my mother tell me?" and then I go ahead and do what I think she would say -- and it's usually the right thing. I've shared her healthy living wisdom from time to time and here is a collection of some of her best advice.

1. "Sit down at the table and have a meal with your family." This is a perfect time to talk to each other and eat well. Don't use this time to argue about food, instead enjoy it and enjoy each other. You may not be able to eat together every night, but make a point of doing it at least once or twice a week. Studies have shown that families who eat together are better nourished and less overweight.

3. "Eat all your fruits and vegetables," and "an apple a day" may sound trite but they are probably the best pieces of nutritional wisdom you'll receive. We always had fruits and vegetables with our meals, and to this day a meal doesn't feel complete without a couple of veggies on the table. Start your kids when they're young. Don't make a fuss over vegetables or say that they are good for them and must be eaten. With all the variety available now, there's bound to be a few that are pleasing to young palates and you'll be enabling your kids to have this healthy habit for life.

4. "Do as I say -- do as I do." My mother actually never said that but it is a truth. Kids learn by example. If you have poor eating habits, don't expect your kids to eat differently. If your eating habits are good ones, then it is most likely that your children's will be too.

5. "There's nothing wrong with treats ... but they should be special." Every year, my family gives me jujubes on my birthday. It was a tradition started by my parents when I was young -- the birthday person could choose anything they wanted on their day. I always picked this candy and to this day it still makes me feel special. If I ate them all the time, I'm sure they wouldn't be the same and that's how it should be with treats.

All the other sage sayings such as "A glass of milk will make your bones strong," "carrots are good for your eyes," and "chicken soup is the perfect cold remedy" have truth to them. Our mothers really did know what they were talking about.

So, if you are a mom, a grandmother, aunt or sister, pass this advice along to those who matter in your life to help keep them healthy and well nourished.

Happy Mother's Day!