Autumn and Halloween

[pdcorlis]

Since I was young Halloween has been one of my favorite guilty pleasures. I don't just like Halloween, I LOVE Halloween.

Having been blessed with a stay at home mom with a wicked sense of humor and amazing sewing skills, My vast assortment of childhood costumes would have put a lesser Hollywood studio to shame. Hobo, cowboy, astronaut, living dead, mummy, pirate, sea captain, absolutely nothing was out of reach - and all just a little bit twisted if you get my drift.

Having planned for weeks, we happy few would explode from the house at twilight, our nostrils filled with an intoxicating blend of wood smoke, composting maple leaves, and air heavy with dew. The rich scent provided a dizzying backdrop as we scampered to the devilishly decorated houses that filled our "territory." We learned over the years the exact route that yealded a bounty not valued in tonnage but admired for its quality and diversity. All these years later I have come to respect the dedication of our neighbors. Each providing treats straight from the kitchen in a time before razor blades, straight pins, and rat poison. The only danger from a popcorn ball then was the obvious threat of cavities and a sour gut. Better than Christmas? You bet.

Today, I'm on the other end dishing it out instead of taking it. Our house is a shining beacon of old fashioned inappropriateness. No "harvest festival" at Phil's house - no-sir-eee. Its skeletons, ghosts, spiders and plenty of colored lights. Happily I dish out sugar filled treats to kids - nothing healthy here - sorry. If you're after sugarless gum you'll have to look elsewhere we only deal in the hard stuff. Just one rule at the door... No Costume? No Candy - its just that simple.

At the end of the night when the candy bowls are empty and the street is quiet I sit back knowing the tradition lives on. I can only hope the next generation picks up the torch and holds it high for all to see. Long live tradition and long live that age old phrase from Mischief Night "Trick or Treat."

[Rex_Tremende]

Having planned for weeks, we happy few would explode from the house at twilight, our nostrils filled with an intoxicating blend of wood smoke, composting maple leaves, and air heavy with dew. The rich scent provided a dizzying backdrop as we scampered to the devilishly decorated houses that filled our "territory." We learned over the years the exact route that yealded a bounty not valued in tonnage but admired for its quality and diversity.

What a phenomenal photograph in words, Phil.

Regards,
Rex.