Thoughts of Pumpkins, Goblins, and Ghosts

We were talking at work the other day about our childhood adventures while Trick or Treating. Those of us who are older, remember fondly heading out, without parents in tow, to have the most incredible experience possible. The first stop was the police department in town (when were real little) to get our bags, with one apple in it. then it we were off and running (literally).

There was a method to just how we would tackle getting the most candy. We strategically mapped out our route (ahead of time) making sure that each house, on each street in our small town was visited. The town I grew up in was a mere 6 blocks by 6 blocks, but when you have to ensure each house is gotten to, by a certain time, it was a bit daunting. But we always managed to pull it off. And successfully!

There were those towns people who insisted on serving us apple cider and donuts, so that cut into our time a bit, but how could we say no? And we also had those people in town who had us choose between candy or a handful of loose change. Those decisions alone cost us minutes. And because everyone knew our parents (daddy was cop in town), they insisted we chat a bit with them. Precious minutes ticking by...

Then back home it was time to sort out the candy. Of course, we lived in times when you didn't have to worry about idiots poisoning the popcorn balls or putting razor blades in the apples, so we were somewhat safe, but I do remember my parents taking a quick account of what might be in each bag. Sorting the candy merely meant pulling it out and taking inventory of what we got. My parents had their favorites so there was some wheeling and dealing with each of us to share with them, and we did. And if I got something I didn't like (which at this point in time is hard to imagine, but there was), I was left to trade with a sibling for something I had to have! trading worked, usually.

I cannot remember ever having a bad Halloween as a kid in a small town. Even our mischief nights were allowed, and encouraged, and done without malicious intent to hurt or harm anyone or their property. The good old days...