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November 01, 2004
Trick or Treat
We had a great time trick or treating last night. Earlier in the day Jeremy and I walked around our 5 acres trying to determine where to put the perenial garden, deck, play structure, fire pit, driveway, and vegetable garden. This led to my pondering life in the country. A life long dream of mine.. to live like Laura Ingalls. (a topic for another weblog entry) Still, growing up in the suburbs left me with some reservations about country living. Would my children miss out on the joys of being in a neighborhood? On the previous entry my mom stated that Halloween was always my favorite holiday. This is true. I loved dressing up, making my costume from bit and pieces found in my bedroom or in the family costume box. I spent all day decorating our house and yard. I loved trick or treating. Not for the candy, but for the camaraderie. This is the one event that opened all doors and brought everyone out into the streets to celebrate.
Not to worry, since moving to the country we have had a steady stream of visitors from the Whiskey Hill neighborhood. Last night we had several trick or treaters drive in, before departing for our own adventures. We drove to Hubbard and parked at the end of Ron & Kara's street. One block, up and down, seemed like the right amount for a 4 and 5 year old. Many of the houses were elaborately decorated. We reviewed the trick or treating etiquette: 1) only go to houses with the porch light on 2) ring the doorbell 3) smile and in unison chant "trick or treat" 4) let the homeowner pass out the candy or only take one piece 5) don't forget to say thank you.
The kids had a ball. Harrison ran up to each door followed by Emma with her gown hiked up squealing," Harrison wait for me, wait for me." The people who answered the doors would comment on the costumes and exchange pleasantries with us. The streets were filled with kids and parents dressed up and having fun. As we finished up Emma commented that we did not know most of these people. This brought to mind something Jeremy once said about why he was not allowed to go trick or treating, it's equivalent to begging for candy from strangers. I guess it's all in the way you look at it. To me its about the community coming together, opening up our homes and hearts to our neighbors.
Posted by jennifer at November 1, 2004 12:35 PM
Comments
It was a treat to have Harrison and Emma come to our home. Homeland is a bit more secure with Harrison on the force.
Posted by: grandpa G at November 1, 2004 05:26 PM
You may be interested in knowing that one of Andrew's friends dressed up as Andrew. We'll try to get a picture.
Posted by: Grandpa G at November 1, 2004 05:31 PM
Well said, Jenn....you said it so right!
Posted by: Grandma E at November 4, 2004 01:07 AM