Oh my, this week… it was absolutely a lot.

Dutifully, even joyously, we built our Dia de los Muertos altar to honor our dead, hoping to coax them back for a night or two. In the past we created elaborate shrines, but this year, with many of our photos and mementos still in boxes, we created a simple display, using all the affection we feel when recalling our time with each of them. The quirky grin of her grandfather, the grace of a favorite Aunt, the solid presence of my father, a host of fabulous friends gone too soon, all the mothers’ lovely adoration. We left them fruit and chocolates and water to satisfy their long journey, along with their cherished possessions we are lucky enough to have. Remembering our remarkable lineage fuels us forward, even into the darker days lurking just ahead.

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