Weve been doing a lot of work to our house here in Minnesota. Working long days, usually past dark, were trying to get the house closed in before winter, which is almost here. We are extending the living room and kitchen. Moving and changing some walls to add a dining room. Were building a new a three seasons room with lots of windows to watch the wildlife in our yard, and adding a deck. In order to take full advantage of the shortening day light hours, Ive been getting up really early. Eating my breakfast in the dark, gives me time to ponder the work we did yesterday,, the work I will do today, and consider all that still has to be done. Its enough to make the boggle the mind. This is also my time to get in some spiritual reflection, putting my mind more at ease knowing my faith will keep me strong. Still, I have to take time to think about the little things. Things that are small in comparison to the house project, but equally as important and require proper appreciation. For example: we live out in the country and dont get any trick-or-treaters at our house. In order to enjoy the little boys and ghouls all dressed up, out gathering their candies and treats, Melissa and I went to John and Dis house in town. Each time the door bell would ring, we were greeted by new characters. It is so exciting to see how they have creatively disguised themselves for this night. The original and homemade costumes are the tops in my book! I especially like the little kids, who are new to this tradition. They softly and sheepishly say trick or treat. Somewhat uncertain about this whole new event, they keep their candy bags close with the tops drawn nearly closed. You encourage them to take what they would like from the bowl of treats youre presenting. Sometimes you have to help them a bit to get the candy bar into their bag, or tell them they can take a little more. After all, just one sleeve of Smarties just isnt enough. With the new kids, their mom or dad stand three steps down on the sidewalk just past the porch looking on, smiling, as the young boy or girl is venturing a few feet from the security of the parents side to do this on their own. Then there are the more experienced kids who enthusiastically chant Trick Or Treat. Having done this a few time before, they have the routine down pat, allowing the parental escort to stand out on the sidewalk by the street. I like to ask the kids about their costume and hear the stories they will tell. How they shopped at the thrift store with mom and got all the stuff to make them a princess, or a knight in shining armor. Their creativity is inspiring. As the night does on, we will eventually see the teenagers. Junior high, to high school age boys and girls who boldly proclaim, TRICK OR TREAT! They move quickly from one door to the next. Their years of participation in this event have seasoned them to professional Trick or Treater status. They know more doors mean more candy. Efficiency. Thats their plan. Some say the older kids should not be going door to door. Leave this tradition for the little ones! They say. I for one, am happy to see the older kids out on beggars night. I hope they never lose that youthful spirit no matter what changes life may bring their way. Around 9:30 we turned off the porch light, and the door bell went silent. It was a good evening of fun enjoyed with two of our favorite people. When we drove home, Melissa and I stopped at the end of the driveway looking at the house, and the work accomplished earlier in the day. The open framing for the addition on the house reminds me just how much work is left to be done. My arms and legs ache from the days labor. As I gaze at the structure, I begin visualizing what it will look like when complete. I see the open square holes in walls filling in with windows. I imagine what color the siding will be painted. I envision us sitting around the dining room table with the kids here, or good friends, laughing and enjoying conversation after dinner. I see the house becoming our home. The work is big and challenging, but the rewards will be well worth the effort. Life is good!
Posted on: Sat, 01 Nov 2014 13:24:40 +0000
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