Halloween Party Coming Up

Because Halloween is my favorite holiday, I nudged Bruce to set our wedding date on Halloween back in 1987. That year it fell on a Saturday night, and I just knew it was the right time for us to marry.

After all, with all the ghouls and goblins in people's windows, and the grinning pumpkins on their lawns, it's hard to forget an anniversary card. And there's always a parade or a party to go to.

It's clear to me that I have a thing for costumes. Look at the events I enjoy the most: the Mermaid Parade, Circus Amok, Medieval faires, and Halloween. Each and every one involves people in costume.

This year, Halloween falls on a Friday night, which isn't so good for parties. People are tired after work. Oh, maybe not the 20-somethings, but when you get to the 50-somethings, yes. Saturday night, November 1st, is a much better bet. Besides, we can celebrate three ways: Halloween, our 21st wedding anniversary, and the Mexican holiday, Day of the Dead.

I enjoy the philosophy of Day of the Dead. Obviously, it's linked to Halloween because both center around All Saints Day. But although they both feature skeletons, the Day of the Dead is a cheerful celebration of the deceased ancestors. People put up beautiful altars with all their loved ones' favorite things. They go to the cemeteries and picnic on the graves, and then leave fruit and other goodies for their ancestors to feast upon. The skeletons are portrayed as being happy, enjoying the same activities they enjoyed in this life. In other words, the afterlife is very much a continuation of this life with all the same pleasures available to the "dead."

So this year we are throwing a party on November 1st (which, coincidentally, was also Bruce's Dad's birthday), and we will especially welcome Mexican foods. I'm debating what costume I will wear, but sorry, I'm not telling yet! You'll have to wait until after the party to find out. Naturally, there will be photos.