Day of the Dead...

With the recent loss of Steve's Mom, celebrating Día de Muertos seemed a timely event for all of us Haerrs to do together.

The basic meaning of the Day of the Dead celebration hasn't changed over thousands of years, despite its evolving traditions. This holiday serves as a moment to honor and celebrate those who have departed from this life while also presenting death as an inevitable part of life. How healthy is that?
The town of Healdsburg honored this annual celebration with a beautiful marigold-adorned community altar where all were invited to share a memento of cherished family members or friends, as well as a variety of live music performances, Aztec dancing, a car show, face painting, games and crafts for kids... activities that connected the community through culture and heritage





The car show not only showcased some exceptional vintage vehicles, it displayed very personal altars. These were examples of the candlelit altars people set up in their homes so spirits can find their way back to their relatives. The altar offers some of the favorite foods of the deceased—just in case they get hungry. Items that were important to the ancestors when they were alive, such as a favorite book or musical instrument, are placed on the altar as well.


A question we all had was why Marigolds? It is believed that their bright colors and strong smell are thought to help guide the spirits of the dead back to their families. They represent the fragility of life and are used to decorate altars, or ofrendas. They are placed in paths in front of the altar to help guide the spirits.









The talents of the face painters were evidenced on young and old. What a delight.

Dancing and music filled the day.



This altar by True West Film Center was one of my favorites. Each votive honored an actor who has gone before us.
Sadly, there were those who had gone before us far too soon (Heath Ledger 1979-2008).
And lastly we need to discuss the skeletons. During Day of the Dead, life-size papier-mâché skeletons and miniature plastic or clay skeletons are everywhere. Why? Mexicans honor their ancestors on Day of the Dead, but they're also reminding themselves that death is just a part of life. Hanging out with skeletons reminds people that one day they will be skeletons. The skeletons are posed doing all sorts of wacky things, such as playing guitar, taking a bath, or making tortillas. Apparently people aren't the only ones who get to have fun on Día de Muertos.

We left this day with many things: fantastic memories of the merriment, face paint smeared everywhere, and most importantly, a unique way to look at life and death.

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