The Day of the Dead is celebrated not as a period of mourning but as one or two days of joyful celebration, supposedly when the souls of the deceased come back to visit their family and enjoy the food and drink that they loved in life.
Marigolds with their bright color are displayed widely to lighten the path back through the darkness.
These, from our yard, are not the typical flower used in Mexico.
The so-called Aztec Marigold has a round shape like a Chrysanthemum but the same bright color.
These sprang up along the edge of the patio, apparently from seed spilled from our tomato barrel.
Apparently they enjoy the abundant Arizona sunshine.
But getting back to the day(s) of the dead in Mexico, November 1st is traditionally a day to remember children that have died and November 2nd for adults.
Cemeteries are decorated and altars are built at homes.
And everywhere can be seen the bright golden color of the marigolds.
