Since November 2012 I took some photos of something I wanted to share with everyone, it is a little part of the traditions of my country. I really LOVE my traditions, I LOVE being mexican and all that it involves.
I know it's been already a year since this holiday and pictures were taken, but I guess it's never too late when it comes to sharing. But here is Dia de los Muertos again, so let's get the photos rolling.
Being so full with work for future projects is really my kind of life right now. Studying another language for a master in Lyon next year, working for my plane ticket. Working for a college scholarship and visiting kids in hospitals just to make them laugh. If this isn't a good explanation of busy, then I don't know what could be.
Between all this activities I've also being taking photos like crazy and today I want to share one of my best experiences from last year.
In 2012 I got the opportunity to go "visit" my grandparents on November 1st. Here in Mexico this day is a very special one, according to traditions, it is the date when our loved and dead ones come to visit. We put an altar at home with the things our loved ones liked, from fruit, mole, all their favorite food and drink, cempasuchil flowers (marigold),papel picado, candles, salt, water, with every item having its particular meaning.
For me it's a very fun tradition, full of color, good food and family. A lot of people is curious about how someone could like a tradition like this, involving dead. I really don't know, I guess it feels good believing that the ones that already parted, can come and be with us for a little while. 
A lot of kids enjoy this celebration, I think it's a cultural thing, it comes from every family, and in every corner of Mexico, there's a little difference, but the essence is the same. Nowadays some kids are forgetting about this tradition because I guess it's more fun to dress up and eat candy. I would love if they could follow both ways, Halloween and Day of the Dead, since I don't have nothing against the North American celebration. Who doesn't like candy, really?
Also last year I got another great opportunity. Participating in Coyoacan's fair of Day of the Dead bread. I went in with some sugar skull looking cookies, making something so traditional a little bit updated for those new generations to still keep their interest. I've got to say I feel very proud of the cookies since they were a hit. I spend a lot of time on making and decorating them in the tiny apartment kitchen, but successfully.
It was a nice year and a nice celebration, just as this year's.
I don't know how I will cope with being away from my country and food for so long. Have you ever been away for a lot of time? What is it you missed the most? How did you cope with it? Let me know in the comments!
Sugary kisses and bony hugs!!
Val
XOX
