tricks and treating

Way back when we all lived in Fayetteville

(early 90s)

we would spend Halloween together.

(Which really doesn't mean all that much, 

seeing as we spent a pretty good chunk of all of our time

together.)

They moved to Rogers.

Then we moved to the Fort.

But we'd still get together most years for Halloween fun.

Then they moved to Texas, and it put the kibosh on Halloween festivities.

Then they moved to Maryland,

and that put the kibosh on pretty much 

all

festivities.

(although we did go up for the Fourth of July once)

Now they are back in Texas,

and somehow,

4 1/2 hours away doesn't seem all that far,

so we went to Scott and Jackie's

for our first Halloween together in a really long time.

The menfolk had a blast planning pranks

(I loved peeking out the window and seeing them all smiling and laughing as they got things set up)

and the kids had loads of fun dressing up

and trick -or- treating

(this was the first time for the 4 youngest!)

Brandon was in both the menfolk category,

and the kid group.

That makes me happy!

(The ridiculous amount of candy

 I am allowing the children to consume,

however,

does not...)

At one point, there was a 100% chance of rain predicted for Saturday,

but we were very grateful that it held off.

Even more, 

we are so grateful for friends

who,

except for the tiny little matter of blood,

are

family.