The Day Our Animals Come Home
Perhaps those we love never really leave us. Perhaps, sometimes, they simply come home for a visit.
Today, while walking along King’s Road with George and Lulu, we stopped outside Mestizo, the Mexican restaurant on the corner of Park Walk, to admire its colourful shrine dedicated to Frida Kahlo.
We stepped inside for a closer look and paused to reflect on Día de los Muertos — the Day of the Dead, and the special significance of 27 October.
A Celebration of Life, Not Death
Día de los Muertos is one of Mexico’s most cherished traditions, celebrated principally on 1 and 2 November. Rooted in Indigenous Mexican beliefs and later intertwined with Catholic traditions, it is a celebration not of death, but of remembrance and love.
Families create beautiful altars called ofrendas, decorated with photographs, candles, favourite foods and vibrant orange marigolds, believed to guide the spirits of departed loved ones home.
But there is something particularly touching for those of us who have loved and lost an animal.
27 October is increasingly observed in Mexico as the day when the souls of departed pets return home.
Families place photographs, collars, toys and favourite treats on little altars, welcoming their beloved companions back, if only in spirit.
Darcy, You Know the Way Home
Standing there today, my thoughts naturally turned to Darcy.
Nearly five years have passed since she left us, yet she remains part of everything we do. Her photographs fill our home, her memories accompany us everywhere, and George and Lulu continue the adventures she began.
I love the thought of Darcy following a trail of golden marigolds, finding her way home once more.
Perhaps she would settle into her favourite spot, recognise George and say hello to Lulu, who she brought to me.
What a beautiful tradition, one that doesn’t ask us to forget or move on, but instead invites us to remember, celebrate and welcome our loved ones home.
I don’t know whether our animals really return on this day. But I love imagining that, just for a little while, the distance between our worlds disappears.
And tonight, perhaps I’ll light a candle for Darcy.
You know the way. 🧡🐾
