Those who have followed this blog for years know that every October I set up an "ofrenda" in the apartment. An "ofrenda" is an altar which Mexican families set up for the Day of the Dead. It represents what Day of the Dead is really all about... a remembrance of departed loved ones.
I set up my "ofrenda" early because a high school friend is coming to visit this week and another friend is coming next week.
There are those who believe that the souls of the dead return home on the Day of the Dead. The pungent aroma of marigold flowers and the light of candles guide them home on their journey. Last Thursday I went to a nearby market to buy a potted marigold plant and to a shop to buy batteries for the electronic candles. Families always place food on the "ofrenda" for the visiting spirits. "Pan de muerto" (bread of the dead) is always one of the traditional food items. I'll wait until closer to the Day of the Dead to buy some "pan de muerto" for the "ofrenda".
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