la manzanilla en la mañana

the air is fresh and crisp as people awake to the beauty of la manzanilla. the array of birds work as a team, enticing everyone with their melodies to rise up and face the day. the smell of gasoline is thick and heavy as a majority of the guys load into the back of trucks to head to nearby towns and resorts to do construction work. the ocean is still and peaceful as it gets its morning workout, quietly crawling back and forth along the sandy shore. women can be seen outside their houses sweeping and watering the dirt roads attempting to rid any lose dirt or unwanted creatures burrowed beneath the debris. the horn of the water truck echoes throughout the town as it begins to make its daily rounds, offering clean water to the people of the community. not to be outdone, the gas truck recording bellows continuously, notifying the people of its whereabouts. mothers take their children to school in hopes of a good education and possibly a better future. at times kids can be heard singing or happily playing in the school yard. the day is ordinary and routine to most, but there is still a distinct charm about it. a sweetness lingers in the air.

during my daily trek to the elementary school i try to breathe it all in and savor every moment, smell, view. its impossible of course. i don’t want to forget a single detail of what each morning presents. refreshing and uplifting, the dawn symbolizes the newness that is offered to all.

"The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness." Lam 3:22-23

Día de los Muertos

There are no classes today, as it is a holiday in Mexico. Literally translated it means “day of the dead”. This day has been part of the Mexican culture and tradition for over 500 years. From what I understand, today the Mexican people honor their deceased loved ones – family and friends. They create beautiful altars with candles, pictures, and marigold flowers. They also decorate gravesites and bring items such as food, alcohol, and toys as gifts for the ones that have passed. While I am sure there is a significant difference in my beliefs from theirs - as far as life, death, and eternity - it is beautiful how they celebrate the lives of those that are no longer here.

The school held various events and activities depicting the background and traditions of this special day. The teachers and students invited me to today’s festivities to learn more about their culture. Below are a few photos...