Pumpkin Carving

We have friends who go all out for Halloween. They decorate their front lawns with coffins, hang sheet ghosts from trees, and string orange lights around the eaves. On Halloween night, spooky music blares from portable speakers hidden under bushes and robotic zombies come to life. They scare the little ones to death.

We also have friends who are polar opposites. Each October 31st, they hang a sign on their front door that reads, “Our house is covered by the blood of Christ. We do not celebrate Halloween.” Those seeking candy turn away disappointed.

The first year I read those words, I returned home and did a little research. I discovered that the word “Hallowe’en” dates back to 1745. It’s short for a Scottish term for All Hallows’ Eve, which is the beginning of a Christian three-day remembrance of those who have died—saints, martyrs and all the faithfully departed. This holiday has evolved into both good and evil directions. Satan worshippers use Halloween to promote their wicked intentions, while Christians stick to the fun traditions—pumpkin carving, cute costumes and trick-or-treating.

Our family falls in the middle of uber involvement and none at all. Each year, we carve a pumpkin. It’s a true bonding experience between my husband and kids. Sometimes, it takes days to agree on a pattern. Now, both kids are on their own, but they still like to come home and help Daddy carve the pumpkin.

This year, we’ll help our church with Trunk-or-Treat. We’ll park in our church parking lot and, with a bunch of other members, open our trunks that will be filled with candy. The kids in the neighborhoods around our church can trick-or-treat in a safe place. I can’t wait to see all the adorable costumes.

What’s your favorite Halloween tradition?