#336

Samhain was the Celtic feast of the new year. It signaled the end of the harvest and the start of winter. Sundown on October 31st was the start of this feast. On this night, the boundary between the worlds was believed to get a little fuzzy. 

Over the years, this feast day transformed into what we know today, with help from Catholics, Americans, and who knows what else. 

Pumpkin carving evolved from carving turnips into lanterns to light the way for souls. Masks were worn to hide your true identity from ill spirits. Catholic children would knock on your door and offer to pray for the souls of your loved ones; in return they were given sweets. 

This holiday was not about devil worship or anything remotely bad. It was originally about thanking the gods for a good crop, praying for a calm winter, taking a break from the harsh life, and honoring the world as it was. 

And what is wrong with having a night to pretend?! 

My girls had a blast dressing up as princesses and getting candy and compliments. This was their first real trick or treating experience. Their first 2 halloweens were in Germany and we went to parties instead of going door to door. And on their first time, they did great and has a blast. They got scared a couple times near the beginning of the night. But after reassurances from Mommy and each other that it was all pretend, they loved it all. It was clear to me how young they are, because once their buckets started to get heavy they asked to go home. Rookies!

Once we for home they were too excited to tell Daddy about everything they did and saw. They ate a couple pieces of candy. And were asleep as soon as we turned off their light! J was a little sad he wasn't able to go, but after his first day back to work and some aches, he stayed home to recuperate. 

It was a great day. I am so happy the girls had fun. They were the prettiest and nicest princesses in the neighborhood.