the obligatory halloween post, with food for thought

I was thrilled when the girls wanted to continue the new tradition of basing their costumes upon literary characters--even more thrilled when they chose characters we already had good costume pieces for.  So above you see Mary, Laura and Carrie Ingalls with their little brother the rent-a-cop policeman, and their good friends the Elephant and the Bobbysocker.

And just for fun, we made our dinner fit the pioneer theme too--beans and cornbread.  Merry even had the idea of using out stainless steel plates and cups, which we could imagine were the tin items the pioneers might have had.  I only wish I had taken a pic of the table before we all dived in!  But eating quickly was part of the plan, since we were meeting friends at the neighborhood above us for trick or treating.

Home with the loot. Tradition says the children spread their haul out on the floor, and then they get to sort through it and choose what they want to keep for themselves, and that goes in their own personal half-quart canning jar.  Whatever does not fit goes into the family basket--and is fair game for Daddy's lunches or Mommy's teatime.  This year was the most that they have ever received, and their jars and the family basket are overflowing.

And it was once again just the right amount of the holiday, with the right focus.  Having special friends join us also per tradition just makes it all the more fun.

And then this morning, on facebook, I saw this article linked: Why Halloween is the Most Godly Holiday.  While his title is easily argued against, he raises some excellent points about this holiday compared to our other national holidays that I had never considered before.  Earlier this year, one of our pastors said in a sermon that whenever a non-Christian invites you into their personal realm (their home, their life, their feelings, etc.) that we should consider it sacred space.  That is the space in which they will be receptive to hearing Truth and considering Love made carnate.  I think that is so true, and I will be remembering that next Halloween--an opportunity to engage with neighbors and build bridges. 

Now if you will excuse me, it's time for my afternoon tea.  and chocolate.  Thanks, kids.