We have set up our annual ofrenda at Verb. You can see it as you enter the store on your left. It changes a little bit every year but has core decorations that represent the four elements, air, fire, water and earth.
The paper flags called papel picado represent the element of air as they flutter easily in a breeze. I place a number of candles that represent the element of fire. I place a cup of water for the ancestors that may visit, said to have traveled a long way, this will quench their thirst. Earth is represented with the squash and corn we grow.
This year Sarah made a garland of Day of the Dead Marigolds she grew in her garden. The scent is thought to guide the spirits to our altar. We place photos of family, friends, and people we love that have passed away to remember them and to honor and celebrate their spirit that lives on in us. When placing the images of mementos of the person I took time to think of them and their impact on my life.
Sarah gifted Kristine and I a beautiful clay incense burner that we use to burn Oaxacan copal resin to purify the space of any bad energy and bring out thoughts to the present.
One Christmas my brother gave us a paper mâche Katrina doll and a painted ceramic skull from Mexico, so I always make sure they anchor the altar with the celebration of life with their bright colors.
Lastly, I bring offerings for Kristine and my ancestors, like pan dulce for my grandparents, a beer for my cousin, cookies, and candies. For Cleo, our beloved dog, that passed in 2020, I have put out her favorite dog treats.
I cannot tell you how much I love making the altar. It really gives me space to remember and cherish the ones I love that have passed.
I would like to invite you to:
+ Come to Verb this Saturday, at noon, and contribute to our community altar. Bring a photo or drawing of a loved one you would like to remember, marigolds if you have them, a sweet (pan dulce) or another treat your loved one enjoyed. We also have little paper hearts to write loved ones names. Once the altar is complete we will include it in a future email for all to enjoy.
+ Come to Verb this Saturday, at noon, and contribute to our community altar. Bring a photo or drawing of a loved one you would like to remember, marigolds if you have them, a sweet (pan dulce) or another treat your loved one enjoyed. We also have little paper hearts to write loved ones names. Once the altar is complete we will include it in a future email for all to enjoy.
+ Learn to make paper flags out of tissue paper called papel picado.
+ Attend our presentation on dyeing with marigolds.
+ Share the love of your community with us.
- Adrienne
