It’s still hot…
But there’s a definite hint of the changing of the seasons and I’m starting to notice the days getting shorter. Which, if you’re a control freak like I am, gives you a wonderful opportunity to plan for good times ahead. I like celebrating things, so I long ago added Divali and Hannukah and Eid to my normal Christian celebrations, but researching for my paranormal cosy Christians Cross mystery series has given me some ideas for new things to try.
For instance, did you know that some pagans believe that Samhain (pronounced Sowain), is when the portals between this world and the next come open, and the souls of the departed visit their homes and the people they love? Obviously, there are as many versions of ceremonies as there are practitioners, but the one that's taken my fancy is making it a festival of love and remembrance by feasting and remembering all the good things about those who have gone ahead of us.
My kids have outgrown trick or treat and to be honest I've always felt a bit uneasy about teaching stranger danger 364 days of the year and then sending them off to extort sweets with menaces on the 365th. Besides, it's so commercial and I don't like adding to the world's supply of cheap plastic rubbish.
So this year I shall put a lantern in my window to guide any spirits who may be passing home and we'll have a feast of their favourite foods and share all our favourite happy memories because as long as we remember people they never really die.
What will you do as summer eases into autumn? Heave a sigh of relief as the kids go back to school? Rush to do the last jobs and make the most of summer? Or maybe take a moment to stop and think about all that we have no matter how hard times might be and make the most of it while we can...
Let me know what you'll do, won't you?