A Blustery November 1

At least, it is November 1 here in Long Creek. It’s November 2nd where my daughter is right now. Last night, we were treated to an old-fashioned Halloween…much like those of youth, only smaller, since the town is only 220 strong.  Parents from ranches brought their kids in, then went to visit friends and neighbors. One group of parents had the right idea. With permission of the school superintendent, they set up their portable fire pit in front of the lower school parking lot, fired it up, put out a bowl of candy and stayed in earshot of their kids while having a good visit. They told me it was a tradition. Sure looks like a good one.

Gene carved a pumpkin and we were able to get into the groove of the evening as well. All of the children, teens and adults were actually well mannered and most of them called Gene by his school honorific, Mr. Russell. A wonderful group of high school boys showed up as well and hammed it up for the camera. It is unbelievable how polite they are. Of course, since Gene is a teacher, that makes sense. All too soon, the evening was over and we were tucked snug in our beds by 9:30ish.  It was a beautiful evening, unlike today, which is blustery and rainy. Looks like our warm autumn has taken a turn. It is still pretty warm, so I think there is no worry of snow yet, but soon, I think.