It’s that time of year again — costumes, trick-or-treating, and kids wired on all the sugary treats; outlandish parties for the grown-ups; and the first pumpkin pies of the season. Happy Hallowe’en, everyone!

But it’s also the start of the fastest-moving two months of the year. We no sooner get the skeletons and fake jack-o-lanterns put away, than we’re working on our guest lists and menus for Thanksgiving dinner, and wondering what on earth we can buy to top last year’s holiday gifts for the kids who already have everything, and for the older folks who claim they don’t need or want anything.

This used to be my favorite time of the year, as it is for many people. But I’m finding it hard to work up the usual enthusiasm this year — not so much because I’m one of those seniors who really doesn’t need any more stuff (which I am); but because of the overall depressing state of the world.

Still, it’s times like these that we need to work a little harder to find the joy in life. So tonight I’m going to light a spice-scented candle; pull out the catalogs that have been piling up in the corner to start the search for inspiration; tune in to some Mannheim Steamroller Christmas music; and add a jug of apple cider and some cinnamon sticks to my grocery list.

Because I’m not letting the Grinch ruin what should be “the most wonderful time of the year.”

Just sayin’ . . .

Brendochka
10/31/25