Ghost and Goblins on the move.

Halloween drifted in and out of our town like a shrouded ghost. Usually during this time of the year, the authenticity of our old home leads to a very realistic Halloween display.  The crooked beams and uneven floors welcomes ghost real and pretend.  The juxtaposition of both of the kid’s birthdays, Halloween, a foot of snow followed by no power was enough to scare even the most menacing ghost away this year.  With the kid’s parties on hold, the decorations would now entertain only the cat that has stayed home to brave the blackout. Like many others, we were thankful to the communities that welcomed our costumed chocolate-consuming children as they trick or treated.  We be like so many in CT, seeking solace in other towns after the storms wrath. Our eviction from our home served us well. We have fared better than most living at grandmas, sleeping in Egyptian cotton sheets with warm food at our fingertips.  We would trick or treat on the very same route that my husband did as a child. Looking around the charmed streets of Guilford reminded one of a Rockwell scene. Goblins and witches crisscrossed the roads with no other reason than to get to the next candy display. Martha Stewart would have approved of the scene laid out in front of her.  People sat on their porches and stoops, waiting to deliver the goods as children eagerly received their treats. Chris wore a smile of nostalgia as he walked the steps to his childhood home transporting him to a place he once loved more than thirty years ago.  Kate and Peter met up with another displaced friend before their conquer of the streets of Guildford. They would come home for the annual candy dump. It’s a good thing that this tradition dies hard, as I love watching the kids’ sort through their Snickers and Milky Way booty. I would sit like a hungry vulture waiting to swoop down and take their discarded Baby Ruth’s and Almond Joys.  How can anyone not love Halloween, when even adults get to revel in sugary nougat and caramels?  It’s a tradition that no wicked storm can deter and spirits will not be broken. 

Lance Armstrong, Flo and Oscar

Someone was running their meter in overdrive on Halloween...