Why "triple threat" shopping environments are valuable learning spaces.

In January 2011, I ran my first half marathon. Six months prior to my marathon run, I would have never thought 13.1 miles were even possible; after all, I was only logging in three miles per run and barely making it out onto the track more than two days a week. Yet, my group of friends pushed me toward the literal finish line. It started with a strategy - a strategy for adding every single mile to my weekly runs in an effort to accomplish the overall goal (which I did - blisters and all).

I've been in a nostalgic mood this week as my family and I celebrate the well-lived life of my father-in-law, who passed away last week at 88 years old. It certainly puts things in perspective as we approach the end of 2014 and reflect on all that has happened this year.

We've known for years that a reliable way for marketers to reach moms is through their portable devices. But I think history is going to look back on 2014 as the real tipping point for mobile marketing. This was the year when mobile became more than a valuable tool in your kit - it became the single most important medium for engaging with moms. From this point on, if your message isn't mobile, Mom's probably going to miss it.

Did you know that 71% of modern mothers work outside the home? And we are in the midst of the rise of the Latina mom? Moms make 90% of their purchases online. Herein is a year in review of 2014's most interesting research and insights into today's mom.

For those who market to moms, 'tis the season to be jolly. After all, when it comes to holiday plans - from what to buy for the family, to shopping for the holiday dinner, to where to spend the vacation and how to get there - moms, by far, remain in charge.