I used to think that the Latin American holiday of Dia de los Muertos was a bit morbid, with its parades of skeletons and people painting their faces like skulls. However, I’ve come to appreciate the beauty of remembering and celebrating the lives of those we love who have departed this earth.
For the past several years on November first, I’ve created a small arrangement of photos, flowers, remembrances and candles to commemorate Dia de los Muertos.
This year, the bookshelf holds photos of Dad, my brother Jorma, and my maternal grandparents, Nanny and Poppy, along with religious icons and mementos like Nanny’s pin and Poppy’s fishing flies. Flowers and roses represent dear ones we lost this year, including our friend Dale’s sweet son Billy Betts, my daughter Gracie’s friend Chris Mullinex, and most recently, our friend Abbie’s beloved father who died just last Wednesday.
The candles will burn all day today, and I find such sweet comfort in celebrating these precious lives.
How about you — are you thinking of someone special on Dia de los Muertos?
May our loved ones rest easy and know that we hold them in our hearts, today and always.
Hugs and happy November,
About Eliza Cross
Eliza Cross is the author of 17 books, including Small Bites, 101 Things To Do With Bacon, and BERRIES. She enjoys sharing ideas to simplify cooking, gardening, and home projects. She is also the owner of Cross Media, Inc. and founder of the BENSA Bacon Lovers Society.