A Beautiful Tradition of Love, Memory & Celebration
At Sunnyside Up, we believe that remembering those we love is one of the most beautiful ways to keep them close.
Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a cherished Mexican tradition that celebrates the lives of family and friends who have passed away. Rather than focusing on sadness, it is a time to remember with love, share stories, prepare favorite foods and celebrate the memories that continue to connect us.
Traditionally, November 1 is dedicated to remembering children who have passed, often called Día de los Angelitos, or Day of the Little Angels. November 2 is commonly dedicated to remembering adults and other departed loved ones.
Families often create an ofrenda, a special altar or display filled with photographs, candles, colorful marigolds, favorite foods and meaningful keepsakes. Each item represents a loving invitation to remember and honor those who are no longer physically with us.
Marigolds are especially meaningful. Their brilliant colors and fragrance are traditionally believed to help guide the spirits of loved ones home.
You don’t have to come from a particular culture or background to appreciate the beauty of this tradition. Learning about its Mexican roots and honoring them respectfully can open our hearts to a different way of understanding grief, remembrance and love.
A Little Something From My Heart
October 28 would have been Scott’s 64th birthday. As we approach this beautiful celebration of remembrance, I find myself thinking about how love doesn’t simply disappear when someone leaves this earth.
It lives in the stories we tell, the things they taught us, the laughter we remember and the little reminders that show up when we least expect them.
For me, Día de los Muertos is another beautiful reminder that we can celebrate a life while still missing the person who lived it.
Want to Learn More?
One of my favorite suggestions is to watch Disney Pixar’s animated movie Coco.
It’s a colorful, touching and beautifully told story about family, music, Mexican traditions and the importance of remembering those who came before us.
It’s a wonderful movie to enjoy with children, grandchildren or simply on your own. You might find yourself laughing, learning and reaching for a tissue or two.
Perhaps this year, light a candle, display a photograph, prepare someone’s favorite meal or simply share a story about someone you love.
Because as long as we continue to remember, their love remains part of our story.
With love and gratitude from Sunnyside Up Farm.