Finding Joy in Every Tradition
I’ve always loved celebrating—holidays, milestones, and even the little in-between moments. Over the years, I’ve found so much meaning in learning how people around the world honor life, family, and holidays. As a mom, that’s something I love sharing with Henry (and soon with Cici) —teaching him that every culture celebrates life in its own beautiful way.
We’ve long known about Día de los Muertos, the Day of the Dead—a beautiful Mexican tradition that welcomes back the spirits of loved ones who have passed. It’s filled with color, marigolds, candles, and remembrance. Families build ofrendas (altars) to honor those they love, and the air fills with the sweet scent of cempasúchil (marigold) flowers guiding spirits home.
It’s a celebration of love that never fades. What I didn’t know, was there is also a day for the pets.
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October 27: A Day for Our Pets
What I recently learned, and absolutely adore, is that October 27 is believed to be the day when the spirits of our beloved pets return. 🐾
The thought of it stopped me for a moment—it’s such a comforting idea. Our pets love us so purely and completely. They become part of our families, our stories, and our everyday routines. Knowing there’s a day devoted to honoring them feels so special—an opportunity to remember their joy, their loyalty, and the warmth they brought into our lives.
“If love could have kept them here, they would have lived forever.”
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Remembering Duke and Lilly
Tonight, I’ll light a candle for Duke (2007–2022) and Lilly (2011–2024)—our sweet Springer Spaniels who filled our home with so much love, muddy paws, and comfort.
Duke was our steady boy, playful and loyal through every season of life. Lilly was gentle and nurturing, our calm in the chaos. Together, they taught us about unconditional love, patience, and joy in the simplest things.
I like to picture them wandering back through a field of marigolds—tails wagging, eyes bright, finding their way home again, even if just for a night.
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Teaching Through Celebration
I’ve always believed that celebration is one of the best ways to learn. By exploring traditions like Día de los Muertos, Henry and I get to talk about love, remembrance, and how people everywhere find ways to keep memories alive.
Tonight, as the candles flicker and the marigolds glow, we’ll take a moment to remember Duke and Lilly—and all the pets who’ve left pawprints on our hearts.
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Forever loved. Forever remembered.
Duke & Lilly.