Love Never Dies

¡Feliz Día de los Muertos! Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a beautiful holiday celebrated on November 1st and 2nd. It is a day to celebrate the lives and memories of those who we love and have lost. I love Day of the Dead and the opportunity to celebrate and remember all of my loved ones that have passed on. I think sometimes people, at least people in my extended family, confuse Day of the Dead as a scary holiday because of the Sugar Skulls associated with the holiday. However, that is not the case at all. It is a time to celebrate, honor, and remember. I highly recommend Disney's Coco, but be prepared to cry your eyes out. One of my favorite traditions of the holiday is to set up an Ofrenda (altar) not to worship, but to honor and welcome departed loved ones. They typically include photographs, food, memorabilia and things that are important to the lost loved one. It is always such an honor for me to put up the Ofrenda each year and decorate my dining room. I take such care in selecting the pictures, items, and food for my loved ones. I have my traditional Papel Picado and some sugar skulls. I also cover the room with marigolds because they are believed to help guide the spirits. I have a ton of candles to light the way. I fill the room with music that my loved ones would enjoy which range from Bing Crosby to Metallica. I am always a little sad when I have to take all the decorations down, but I know my loved ones are always with me. I am so lucky to love and be loved by so many incredible people and pets. In my home, all souls are welcome.