I grew up not knowing Spanish. I knew it was important as an adult to learn my heritage. My daughters both danced ballet Folklorico for 8 years and my mother always watched them with such pride. She loved watching them swaying back and forth with those vibrant beautiful dresses. She was so amazed by their talent and bragged about them all the time.

Dia de Los Muertos is a time to celebrate our loved ones who have departed this world. Ofrendas are made with beautiful marigolds and pictures of family members that have passed. Their favorite foods and drinks are placed on the ofrenda. My mom loved her coffee and concha’s in the morning. She always sent me to the Mexican bakery first thing in the morning to grab the fresh ones.

Today, and every day, I remember my mom and her request for her favorite bread. I remember her dancing in the living room to a Selena song. I miss that fun vibrant woman, my mother.