Wow, October’s almost over already. This year’s jack-o’-lantern–procured and scooped out by Gloria, drawn upon by me, and carved by both of us plus my husband–is complete. Two dragons either locked in a mid-air battle or going for a friendly flight together (whichever you prefer). It’s a little less complicated than last year’s. Turns out it’s a challenge to crowd three people around a pumpkin and all carve at the same time, but aside from a slight miscommunication which resulted in Dragon#2’s wing being amputated, it was a success. Dragon#2 recovered.
Anywho, I hope everyone who takes part in Halloween has fun this year.
When the time comes, may all you trick-or-treaters get good hauls.
All of you on the other side of the doors, I hope it’s a slow night and you get to eat most of that candy you bought.
Speaking of trick-or-treating, I can’t help but wonder when this holiday went so astray. We had several visits to our door last year, and I really felt like there was some enthusiasm missing from most of those encounters. I mean, aren’t you supposed to take on the countenance of some spooky, creepy creature to frighten me, and then threaten to haunt my house and play tricks on me lest I pacify you with some delicious treats? Aren’t you at least supposed to call out, “Trick or treat!” when I open the door? Last year I had some kids just reach up and snatch my candy without a word. I had some kid take a handful of chocolate and then ask for a bottled water while I was at it.
Don’t get me wrong; if Spiderman shows up at my door one night and wants some of my supply of Reese’s, I’m not likely to turn him away. And if I see that your costume took a lot of effort or creativity, I’ll likely bestow some of my beloved candy upon you in appreciation for the art. But really, you could at least ask me nicely if you’re not willing to threaten me for it. This year if I find some half-hearted zombie cheerleaders on my porch holding out their bags in silent expectation, I’m just going to keep my bowl of treats to myself and ask what I can do for them. Granted zombies might have trouble speaking up, but they could at least groan at me. Especially high school zombies. Can’t you buy your own candy? I can make exceptions for a few little princesses or witches or incredible hulks who are too shy to speak to a complete stranger and are being ushered along by mom with the flashlight waiting in my driveway, but come on. I was a very shy unicorn myself and I still dutifully shouted, “Trick or treat!” with the rest of them when the doors opened. I want to play along, but I need some effort here.
