Day of the Dead

 

Ok, I'm a bit off, I am ether REALLY early, Or very late… But hey I get to it when I can right.

Day of the dead (Día de Muertos) Celebrated November 1-2 it is placed around the catholic All saints day and all souls day (Halloween).  The Festivities are planned all year around,  Buying trinkets, Tequila, Marigolds (also known as Flor de Muerto  "Flower of the Dead") and toys for the children that have passed on (los angelitos) the Little angels. 

Some places wear costumes made of shells, it is thought that as they dance, the shells will make a noise, enough to wake up the souls and bring them back, even if just for the day to hear the prayers of those that are living.  Masks are usually of skulls as is the shapes of the food (Usually cookies with frosting made into bones) .

Day of the dead is a way for the living to keep the deceased alive, It is thought that they come back and eat the food made and left out for the galas, and even if ate by those living, the Nourishment is taken out buy the souls visiting that day (Sounds great although I don't think calories are depleted)

Altars are common also, Leaving pictures, Memories and written items from the deceased, and is something that even the government offices do in many countries, having celebrating and and small altars made for those that are employees.  Recently the day of the dead has become   a day to also remember soldiers, making altars to commemorate those lost in battle. Although it may not be a National holiday in America, In Arizona and Texas are known for their celebrations.

The rest of us are left with Halloween, My personal Favorite holiday, Although most schools frown on Death related costumes, it is a day for the children to gather candy (Which was good luck for the children, I mean when is getting candy bad, Unless its from a stranger in a van?) 

This year, I will celebrate Day of the dead, like those who really know what it is, at the cemetery, cleaning grave sites of family, Bringing them Flowers and  leaving small items for them.  Halloween will always remain my Favorite holiday, Now I just have even more of a reason to celebrate, Those I have lost, that still mean the world to Me.