Halloween in the Philippines...

Hey? Ok so you're saying to yourself, they have Halloween in the Philippines? Well, actually we have Hallow's Eve here but we celebrate it in a different fashion. It is celebrated on October 31 in the states but November 1 in the Philippines. A few people or companies get in the spirit by dressing in costumes, but not as big an occasion for dressing up and trick or treating as there in the states.

We celebrate Halloween here by visiting our near and dear relatives that have already passed away. Our whole family gathers at a meeting place, either one or two places. Almost the whole cemetary is full that we can hardly even move. Usually after the tents and chairs are set up, we then eat and spend the whole day at the graves of our family members, remembering him or her for them and when they used to be with us.

It is a sad and happy time also. Of course they are there in spirit with us also celebrating. People usually bring food as an offering to our family members and we clean the graves as best as we can. We light a candle and pray for not only them but also us and our families. We ask them for guidance and help with everything that's near or dear to our hearts. I guess by visiting them not only do we remember who they were but for the person they were and all their sacrifices that they have done for us. It makes us happy we are alive and brings us back to reality that we will be there in their place one day.

But in all in all it is a great day...full of love, bonding and remembrance for the people who gave us life and were there with us along the journey of life. This is my personal thank you.

It's almost haunting time....

It's almost haunting time!! Little ghouls and goblins running amuck in the streets from house to house. What a scary thought! Well, it's near that time again, Hallow's Eve or Halloween as we call it. Here are some tips for your little trick or treaters so that they may have more treats than tricks...

1. Always keep an eye on your kids. It will be dark and there will still be automobiles on the road.

2. Check and double check again all candies that are given out. Better to be safe than sorry. Try to moderate also the intake of all that sugar. Cavities are expensive as we all know and a toothache just doesn't feel too good, know what I mean?

3. Always bring a flashlight so you can see in the dark and pedestrians and drivers can see you easily.

4. Try to give out candy at home or have a Halloween party instead, so your kids can enjoy the occasion as well as the grownups.

5. Make your own costume! It's fun, you can be creative and get to spend time with your kids. You can even make it a tradition if time allows. If not, you can buy a costume.

6. Always make sure your kids have a responsible partner with them. It will be easier and safer that way.

7. Set a time limit on the hours for trick or treating, therefore ensuring they will be home on time.

8. Never venture into unknow neighborhoods, better stick to the neighbors that you know.

9. Please, discard all your wrappers and disposable items in the proper place! Littering is awful you know.

10. And last but not least, enjoy this occasion with your kids if you can. It will help you build a better bond with your kids and you can get some exercise while you guys are out there!

Hope this helps a little on the upcoming Halloween night. Enjoy, be safe and have a howling good time!!!