Halloween 2021

2021 brought a bunch of almost normal events, Halloween included.

Most of our girls are leaving or have left the Trick or Treat stage but Johanna is prime candy gathering age.  Because of the split we were a little unsure how we were going to approach the holiday. We knew we wanted to have our friends over: The Brinks, Arciagas, Shumakers and Arnolds. These families have become intertwined in our lives and I am so grateful. And at the same time Halloween really is focused around our kids and they were heading in multiple directions. Bridget wanted to hang out with friends from middle school, Megan had a few parties to attend, and Johanna didn't quite have a direction but wanted to be social. She's the youngest child out of all of our friends kids, so there isn't a built in playmate when we get together. In the end it all worked out.

We carved pumpkins on Saturday and I got the seeds roasted. Megan had a Halloween/birthday party that night so she did a quick change into Megara from the Hercules movie, as we finished out carving.

Halloween Day, Johanna had a soccer game right after church and she was put into goal, where she did a great job. I was glad Jim and the sister were able to see the end of the game and cheer her on. 

Bridget began sewing a gown weeks earlier, inspired by the Barbie Princess and the Pauper movie, and then decided to sew one for Sarah as well so they could go together. Becky purchased hoop skirts and they were all set.  Bridget decided to invite a few people over to our house where they met before going trick or treating, then hung out in our basement.  

Johanna was dressing up as a Hogwarts student this year.  Megan volunteered to take Johanna around trick or treating and Jo was thrilled. Megan grabbed one of the robes and joined her in costume. Megan asked to have a few people in the backyard for a fire pit after taking Johanna around. The adults would be in the driveway for a firepit and handing out candy. The weather was great, a little chilly but not bad. Johanna finished up trick or treating sooner than we expected but was happy with her haul and had enjoyed herself. She would hang out a little with each group and watched a movie before heading to bed. Johanna also participated in the Trunk or Treat at St. Mark's the weekend before and got to see school friends there. We were stocked with candy. 

Each year as they grow up holidays shift a little bit more to something new. Each year I savor the traditions but enjoy the new moments that our current situation provide.