This is as close as I can get . . .

. . . to having Johnny Depp in my house. Or, more accurately, Captain Jack Sparrow. I'm sure he's more fun than Johnny anyway. Maybe.


I love, love, love Halloween! It is absolutely my favorite holiday ever. We have only recently relocated to Illinois and we are living in a house built in the 1800s; I was hoping to encounter some friendly spirits here but other than the neighbors, no such luck. We found some VERY friendly spirits last weekend in the Chicago area and held an impromptu pumpkin carving class. It was quite a mixed group of gender and age and it is safe to say a good time was had by all. Worth mentioning -- these are all first-time pumpkin carvers and their results were magnificent!





Thanks to my sister, Joy, for the wonderful treats, great decorations and a fire to take the chill off!