I didn't snap a photo this year but we once again hosted a gathering for friends and family. Many fine images and memories were shared. Food was good, drink was good, but the friendship and family stories were the best.

THAT'S what the day is all about!

Today is not Mexican Halloween. It's a very solemn, somber and emotional day for Mexicans con buena educación (nothing to do with school). Yes, you'll see some folks copying estadounidense commercialism for the same reasons as estadounidenses: they're raised on it or have a vested interest. But for the great majority of people around the country this is not an excuse to wear costumes, buy crap you don't need or drink alcohol or party. It's a day to HONOR our dear departed. Those you feel love and a kindred spirit for.

Surprised in not a good way to see for the first time Snowbirds posting pictures inside the cemetery. The Patzcuarization of Dia de Muertos where they do tours to the cemetery.

While folks are certainly welcome to visit the panteón during Día de Muertos, I do hope visitors remember to be respectful and remember we are not on exhibit like some poor zoo animals.

Today is not Mexican Halloween. It's a very solemn, somber and emotional day for Mexicans con buena educación (nothing to do with school). Yes, you'll see some folks copying estadounidense commercialism for the same reasons as estadounidenses: they're raised on it or have a vested interest. But for the great majority of people around the country this is not an excuse to wear costumes, buy crap you don't need or drink alcohol or party. It's a day to HONOR our dear departed. Those you feel love and a kindred spirit for.

Surprised in not a good way to see for the first time Snowbirds posting pictures inside the cemetery. The Patzcuarization of Dia de Muertos where they do tours to the cemetery.

Yes, we make light of death because it is always RIGHT HERE with us mocking us, taunting us, driving us crazy if we let it. But we DON'T say "Feliz Día de Muertos". That is maleducado e insensible. This isn't a fun day. It's an emotional and a spiritual one. But it doesn't have to be a sad day. We can certainly feel the happiness of having enjoyed the life of people and pets that were dear to us. In their love we find great consolation and solace for the immense void they left in our hearts and our lives with their departure.

La Catrina ha llegado. Cuídense todos. Paz y amor para sus queridos difuntos.