Well we are pretty much back into our routine of exercise which means swimming laps for me and power walks for Paul, the daily chores of life, Spanish classes, visiting with friends, and finding time for the occasional sit on the beach. The ocean is so warm right now you don’t feel the wet. It’s really different from Lake Winnipeg! Nov. 1 and 2 are the very special days in Mexican culture called Dia de Muertos- Day of the Dead. The 1st celebrates the lives of children who have passed on, and the 2nd is a time for the dearly departed adults. This is a time when families visit graves and put out photos, candles, a traditional flower (we know them as marigolds), food, and items that the departed enjoyed in life, with the hope that on this day they might return and visit once again with their families. Last year our dear friends David & Lucy invited us to join them for a neighbourhood 1st annual fiesta and this year we returned. It is like a giant block party with lots of food, beverages, entertainment, and good company. This year there were traditional dances, musicians and a marionette show. Of course there were the usual thanks to neighbourhood businesses and welcomes, so David convinced me to give an “English” welcome to the non-Mexican visitors. Teachers never really retire! Also last year Lucy taught me about the family altars.
This year I came prepared with appropriate photos of our 4 parents and set up our little altar area in our home and when we went to the celebration on La Madera last night, I took mom’s picture, flowers and a candle. Lucy and David placed it next to the place for David’s brother and father, so I guess we can say mom has been adopted into Mexican culture and family. She would be so honored and so pleased- I know Paul and I are.
