Some friends in the neighborhood began holding a Halloween party/ pumpkin carving contest when our kids were toddlers. For a number of years they held it in their backyard. Parents of youngsters relished the evening out, even as they vigilantly guarded their overconfident toddlers from teetering down stone stairs in their beautiful backyard and veering across the front lawn into the street.
As the party grew over the years, they moved the operation to the front of the house, officially blocking off the street. Everyone brought a dish to share, and the pumpkin carving contest endured
The pandemic brought a halt to the event, but it roared back to life tonight. We oldies turned out, our teenagers made appearances, and the music played as we caught up with familiar faces. Newer parents were on the scene with their little ones, and I took comfort in the reassurance that traditions endure and we’re all still seeking connection.
My Corner of the Village 