Josefina's Ofrenda

My friend Josefina is from Mexico, and the annual feast of Día de los Muertos is an important part of her culture. It's a way of remembering our loved ones who have passed on.

This year, Josefina borrowed my gazebo to set up an ofrenda - that's an altar filled with offerings in honor of deceased family and friends. She did this in honor of her beloved mama, and also for my Grandpa Ben, both of whom were lost too soon.

We also placed some holy pictures of Our Lady Of Guadalupe in front of the ofrenda. She's the patron saint of Mexico and the Americas, and very much honored here in Texas, where I live. Sombrita was eager to help!

As you can see, we placed candles on the altar, along with fruit, honey, bread, and cookies. There's also a basket of corn and some juice, all things that our departed loved ones would enjoy. 

I'm so thankful that Josefina included me in her celebration. As you might've guessed, I was behind the camera this time. I'll be back in focus soon. Until next time...

Love,

Vivienne

Happy Halloween

Did everyone have a happy Halloween? I did! Mom said I could use the gazebo for a party.

I had most of my costume on and decided to do a last minute check on my decorations

 

I knew right away we'd have to move the table outside to make room for everyone! By the time we got that done, I barely had time to do my hair before my guests started arriving! Everyone gathered around the table to have some treats.

 

My cousin Violet wore this awesome 50's style costume.

 

 

"Are you Sandy from Grease?" I asked her. She laughed. "No, I'm Maryellen!" How cool is that? 

My friends Saige and Isabelle came, too.

 

Saige was a caterpillar and Isabelle was I Dream Of Jeannie.

We had plenty of snacks to go around. 

Brownies with Halloween sprinkles, giant lollipops...

Plus, all of the trick or treat candy we collected.

After enjoying some goodies, we had a costume show in the gazebo.

Violet went first.

 

Then Saige...

Isabelle did a few genie dance moves when her turn came...

 

Finally, I took a bow as my favorite character of all time, Snow White.

 

Halloween is so much fun, but it's even better when you share it with great friends. I hope you had a safe and happy holiday!

 

Love,

Vivienne