Carol Van Ahlers

Each year on May 1st, people around the world celebrate May Day—a holiday rooted in ancient traditions that honor the arrival of spring, even though it is well behind the calendar marking of the beginning of spring.  While customs vary by country and culture, the heart of May Day remains the same: celebrating renewal, growth, […]

The funeral industry is evolving, driven by innovation and growing  environmental concerns. Recently, there have been advancements providing alternatives to funeral and burial methods that have been practiced for years. Three innovations on the forefront include eco-friendly burials, composting human remains and aquamation. All of these options are currently available in California, but not in

Grief doesn’t pause for holidays, family gatherings, or casual invitations. Sometimes the hardest part isn’t the quiet moments alone — it’s being around other people when you feel shattered inside. If you’re navigating loss, here are a few ways to move through social spaces with care for yourself and grace for others. Communicate boundaries kindlyYou

When a child experiences the death of someone they love, adults often feel unsure of what to say — or whether to say anything at all. The instinct to protect children from pain is natural. But the truth is, children grieve too. They simply do it differently. Grief in children rarely looks the way it

On this International Women’s Day, we proudly highlight Hilgenfeld Mortuary as a cornerstone of our community, celebrating its legacy as a woman-owned and family-operated business for nearly a century. For over 10 years, Becky Arieas has led Hilgenfeld Mortuary as the current owner, continuing the strong tradition established by her mother, Margie Hilgenfeld-Field, who served

In modern times, February has become the month of love. While it includes Valentine’s Day, the larger idea of love—connection, care, and lasting bonds—extends well beyond a single date on the calendar. It’s a fitting time to reflect on what love looks like over a lifetime, and what remains after someone we love has died.

Valentine’s Day is often associated with romantic love—cards, flowers, and grand gestures. But for many people, especially those who are grieving, this narrow definition can feel incomplete. We experience love in countless ways throughout our lives: the steady presence of a parent, the laughter shared with friends, the quiet devotion of caregivers, and the comfort

In the weeks following a death, families often find themselves managing practical matters while still grieving. This can feel exhausting, which is why understanding what typically needs attention, and when things need to be done, can help reduce stress. One of the first longer-term responsibilities is notifying organizations and institutions. This may include employers, insurance

When a loved one dies, it can be difficult to think clearly—yet important decisions and tasks often need to be handled right away. While every situation is different, understanding the first steps can help ease some of the uncertainty during a very emotional time. One of the first things that must happen is an official