View Full Version : Grrrrr......Halloween
SassyDiva
31-10-2006, 18:35
Ok, so accuse me of not getting into the spirit of things but I've had enough :mad:
I've had a constant stream of 'trick or treat'ers' thru this afternoon and thats all well and good, had brought some chocolates so they wouldn't catch me out this year....and I just told the last lot to bugger off..
I think it's all well and cute lil kids coming to the door, but the average age of kids coming to my house is 16 and they aren't even dressed in costumes, and this last lot of kids (the same lot that get drunk in the street on Friday nights...but thats another vent) came to my gate..rang the door bell 3 times B4 I could get there and woke up my baby :mad: , and said..so what have u got for us....well they got somethin all right :devil6:
Think I might make a sign up for next year to warn them of the evil lady inside..
I better not get eggs thrown at my fence :banghead:
:wave: I am sooo not into Halloween-I mean,I don't even know what it's for:confused: It seems to be an American thing that has started over here and I just can't get into it.I looove all other holidays etc but I don't see the point of this:thumbsdown: Sorry to all who think it's great but...........
It's all too American for me!!!! Rang a friend this arvo and she heard the doorbell ring- ofcourse school kids 'trick or treating'. They were young and no parents around. Is it really that safe for chn to be arund by themselves, knocking on strangers doors?? i don't think so- just another event companies want us to accept for their benefit$$$$$$$$$$$.
*~alegna~*
31-10-2006, 18:44
I'm with ya girls!.....:banghead:
DH just went out & bLEW $30 on frikkin lollies & such & I didn't even get 1!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!......Me get no lollies! :eek:
Will say though tha tthe little ones that came around had lovely manners..I'm an oga (sp) for manner!....:cool:
SassyDiva
31-10-2006, 18:45
Totally agree...Halloween is an American holiday.. I personally wouldn't allow my kids (when their older) to go round collecting sweets from strangers.... Isn't that what we tell our kids never to do. God knows what some sicko's could do...
i dont think its safe for kids to go doorknocking without parents aswell
HugsAndKisses
31-10-2006, 18:53
Even though i dont really celebrate halloween...i used to when i was young and loved it. tonight i got caught out 3 times :laughing: so me and Dp went and bout two pkts of lollies cause the little ones looked so dissapointed when i told them i had nothing...wat can i say im a sucker:laughing: but we only got one after that so its worked out well:yes:
OneBabyBoy
31-10-2006, 18:53
Totally agree...Halloween is an American holiday.. I personally wouldn't allow my kids (when their older) to go round collecting sweets from strangers.... Isn't that what we tell our kids never to do. God knows what some sicko's could do...
I agree with this :yes:
We always teach our kids not to take lollies from strangers I think allowing them to take food from strangers on only one night of the year is confusing and inconsistant and like Jordy&jacksmum said there are some real sickos out there :no:
MrsMiggins
31-10-2006, 18:57
jordy&jacksmum, I would certainly have had words to say to non-genuine trick or treaters!!
I don't think there are a lot of people who would feel comfortable sending their kids out alone to beg lollies off strangers. Most people I know who do take their kids ToT'ing only go to neighbours & others they know.
I would welcome ToT'ers around to my place - I went & bought treats especially for them, but none came. :(
Oh well, perhaps next year!!
As for the American holiday bizzo, well.... I will just say that kids will be kids & kids will have fun. They don't know (or care!) where the tradition originated, and why should they??
IMO there is nothing wrong with us adopting a few fun traditions from elsewhere in the world. Would it make a difference if the tradition came from England or Venezuela or Tibet???
Little Gorilla
31-10-2006, 18:58
I've got a big bag of lollies here and no one has turned up yet:o
Aaaawww Mel,tell them where to go!!!Bloody rude buggers!!!:mad:
It's all too American for me!!!! Rang a friend this arvo and she heard the doorbell ring- ofcourse school kids 'trick or treating'. They were young and no parents around. Is it really that safe for chn to be arund by themselves, knocking on strangers doors?? i don't think so- just another event companies want us to accept for their benefit$$$$$$$$$$$.
Sounds like they decided on the way home from school they thought they might be able to get some lollies early!! Wonder what there parents would say if they walked through the door with a heap of lollies....hopefully they would care
we LOVE IT !!
dp is the one. born and raised in the usa he is a sucker for this every year. we have the house done up bags and bags of sweets to hand out and the kids go all out getting dressed up. my LOT (yes thats where i got my user name lol ) are all out right now. i went out for a bit but had to come home to man the house to give out to the other kids. dp takes them to the door and is never out of sight. they go to the houses in our street and just behind. they meet up with friends from school and share out the sweets...
there are lost of older people here that step outside for a chat and see what goodies the kids have, some have nothing to give some give fruit or money (ive been handed $35 in $5 note so far!) and my kids will still stop and chat no matter what....and they always leave the houses with waves and "happy halloween!!!"
my kids are old enough to know not to take sweets from strangers (and they are NEVER alone to do so!) and that this is one time of year for fun .BIG DIFFERENCE! and they have multicultural days at school and learn about other countries, food celebrations ect they know this is american and not everyone here does it....but alot do..so why not have some halloween fun!
now if you see a group of kids dressed as witches, goblins, and batman and their dad in a stupid green hat with green hair...thatd be my lot!
SassyDiva
31-10-2006, 19:21
now if you see a group of kids dressed as witches, goblins, and batman and their dad in a stupid green hat with green hair...thatd be my lot!
Now this I wouldn't have a problem with..at all. I'd think it was cute to see kids all dressed up, and this is exactly why I went out and brought chocolate and had em all ready to go in my pumpkin head. For the neighbourhood kids who get into it.
It's the 16 year old kids, who aren't dressed up and repetadly ring my door bell (like 3 times in 30 seconds), then say.."what do you have for us" that I have a problem with.
Oscar's mum
31-10-2006, 19:22
Apparently Halloween is Celtic not American;)
Chub Chub
31-10-2006, 19:23
I didn't even realise it was Halloween.....had five lovely dressed cherubs come to the door (mum & Dad on the footpath). We don't really have lollies in the house....whoops! So they scored some fruit mentos (two packets) a fruit stick each and some sultanas. As they left I heard the little girl ask her brother what he got and he said in a very quite voice....sultanas:crying: . Poor disappointed boy. Maybe next year they will skip the Healthy House or I might be more prepared.
*~alegna~*
31-10-2006, 19:25
Now this I wouldn't have a problem with..at all. I'd think it was cute to see kids all dressed up, and this is exactly why I went out and brought chocolate and had em all ready to go in my pumpkin head. For the neighbourhood kids who get into it.
It's the 16 year old kids, who aren't dressed up and repetadly ring my door bell, then say.."what do you have for us" that I have a problem with.
OMG! i just got scared the tripe out of...this little blighter banged on my door (the glass panel of the side - see through frosted) JUST as I was walking into my Bedroom...with a Scream mask on.
I opened the door &there was like 6 of them..all in the same ruddy mask laughing at me! :eek: .....No lollies for you mmmwwwhahahahaha:devil6:
MummyCharmzy
31-10-2006, 19:27
I dont really think it needs celebrating here either but I have some lollies here anyway, its 8:30 tho and no ones been again (just as last year) so looks like its a no go. So the kids get a treat tomorrow lol
SassyDiva
31-10-2006, 19:30
OMG! i just got scared the tripe out of...this little blighter banged on my door (the glass panel of the side - see through frosted) JUST as I was walking into my Bedroom...with a Scream mask on.
I opened the door &there was like 6 of them..all in the same ruddy mask laughing at me! :eek: .....No lollies for you mmmwwwhahahahaha:devil6:
:laughing: Sorry, but had to laugh... I'd sh*t myself.. little buggers.. Just had another lot thru... and they were nice and polite...so they got some of my stash.
Our street is out of control!! There are kids everywhere and I have just had my fifth lot of trick or treaters. There is even a house all decorated in halloween stuff. I don't have any lollies to give. DP just went for a run and saw some eggs on the road so no doubt we will be egged tonight.
devlin's mom
31-10-2006, 19:36
It's pretty organized in our neighbourhood .... a week ago, we received a note in our post box - if you would like to partcipate and join in the fun, put a balloon outside. The kids won't knock on your door if they don't see a balloon. We've just given out 40 bags of lollies.
I didn't even give halloween much thought but when I heard a knock at my door this evening I was all ready to march up to the door crankily and give some sort of speech about respecting peoples rights to not celebrate certain things :ecomcity: :ecomcity: but then I opened the door and the cutest fairy princess, spiderman and 2 witches were at my door with their lovely mums standing waving cheerily on the steps and before I knew it I was declaring how gorgeous they all were and scurrying into the kitchen to see if I could russle up something to put in their bags.:rolleyes: :p They were all so polite and grateful and it made me feel much nicer than being all rude and cranky to a group of strangers that included small children.
That's a great idea devlin's mom. We had a couple of young teens come to our door earlier, they weren't dressed up or anything but I still gave them lollies, DP answered and said "oh hang on" before I had a chance to suss them out. :rolleyes:
MrsMiggins
31-10-2006, 19:40
My parents (who are right into it!!) got a little note as well. The note included a sticker you could put on your letter box if you were happy to receive trick or treaters. It was so much fun when I went to pick DD up this afternoon watching the little kiddies all dressed up, having a ball & looking out for the stickers on the letter boxes!!
What a great idea!! :thumbsup:
Mummy2Noah
31-10-2006, 19:47
I didnt even no it was Halloween today until i got home from work we have had about 10 kids come to the door its driving me mad i just want to lay down and relax!!! Luckily ive got lots and lots of Redskins in the cupboard (My one and only craving).
We just had 5 of them appear on my doorstep. I was not prepared so all they got each was a small snack nut pack each...hope there aren't any nut allergies in that group??
send some of the action my way :p This town is dead :laughing:
Oh Mel... Im with ya hunny.
The last lot that came were two YOUNG girls by THEMSELVES dressed as Hulla Girls.
These girls were all of about 12 years old.... I just shook the head, HOW on earth can a parent let these girls out ALONE?? :mad:
The lot before the young girls were like the lot you had, teenagers not dressed up.. knocked on the door and then just stood there when I answered. I said "I dont have any lollies", they didn't say anything and just left!!
Halloween is NOT our tradition. Even the Amercians stole it... from the PAGANS. America commercialised it.
I got a big bag of body parts(jube ears,fingers,eyes & noses) from toys r us & they are all gone, I had some really cute,polite kids come around & most of them where under 12 & all dressed up really sweet & scary.
Mel your lot sounded like a treat :eek: Well a least you know where to find them if they do egg your house :devil6:
I think its too American for me. Never got into it as a kid and my parents were alwasy trying to get rid of the kids.
"trick of treat" my parents would get the sprinklers or hose onto them....the older kids that is. They were like 16.
I mean come on guys!!!
heymamma
31-10-2006, 20:21
Well sorry... but im really into it.. Its not an american holiday its actually a Pagan holiday. Americans prolly just took it as they do everything.
But i dressed up as a witch & i dressed alyssa as a princess,,, & we went out & trick or treated.. the people in our street were great... most houses we went to had bags of lollies made up at the door... We had a bowl of freddos & smarties... but all the kids that came to us were dressed up..lil darlins. I'm really into halloween though.. i put balloons on the front of the house & signs etc.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Halloween
pookiesossige
31-10-2006, 20:24
It's pretty organized in our neighbourhood .... a week ago, we received a note in our post box - if you would like to partcipate and join in the fun, put a balloon outside. The kids won't knock on your door if they don't see a balloon. We've just given out 40 bags of lollies.
This sounds like a FANTASTIC idea.
I don't really want to participate (my choice). I've had a rough night settling the kids (an hour and a half) and it's getting too much, all the kids at the door asking 'lollies please'. The last kid was in his school uniform with a plastic sword and he just asked me what we were giving out. I said nothing, we didn't know it was such a big thing..
I won't be letting my kids roam about at dusk on their own approaching strangers on their doorsteps for lollies. :no:
heymamma
31-10-2006, 20:30
Every lot of kids that came to us had there parents waiting at the driveway.
LoopyLyndaLou
31-10-2006, 20:40
I have to say I am not a fan of Halloween.
We come from England and it is getting pretty big over there, I really don't mind trick or treaters so long as they are dressed up and polite and don't come after 8pm.
In the village we lived in most of the kids would get toghther and a couple of parents would be with them and they would only knock on eachothers doors. or doors where they had a carved and lit pumpkin in the window or on the doorstep.
It is very intimidating and scary for the older generation to have hoards of young kids banging on the door and I think that is something that needs to be considered.
I don't think it works so well over here though, as part of Halloween is the fact it gets dark around 4pm so the kids walk around with lanterns etc, it all seems a bit odd to be doing it in the daylight but I guess it is like CHristmas being in the summer, it is something us pommies will have to get used to!
The thing I really do object too is all the 'marketing', costumes, cards etc that we get in the UK, it is such a con and makes it so expensive for parents and puts so much pressure on them. It means in Septmeber you have halloween merchandise rubbing shoulders with Christmas stuff - it is ridiculous.
Lynda x
woven_wings
31-10-2006, 20:44
No-one here... we have lots of kids living on our street and Ive heard them running around the street but they know we never have anything lol... so they didnt visit!
I am personally not a fan but each to their own.
I've got a big bag of lollies here and no one has turned up yet:o
We didn't either.
My neighbour, I and our kids got dressed up and went to a few house in our street that we knew but apart from 3 kids who joined us it was quiet.
I think the idea of balloons out the front is a great idea.
I was thinking of doing a letter box drop to see who was interested but it didn't happen.
If people aren't into it they can put a sign outside saying "sorry no lollies".
We came across one house like this, fair enough if their not interested.
MY LITTLE FREAKS (i mean treats) HAD A GREAT NIGHT
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l132/my_lot/trickn.jpg
spiritedfamily
31-10-2006, 21:01
Awww you bunch of scrooges..
Its not just american. It must be a northern hemisphere thing as we celebrated it in ireland.
The kids got all dressed up and went around to the neighbours and got toys or candy.
Usually 2 parents went with them..
But then over there you have community spirit and most neighbours know all the familys and so its a lovely tradition..
Most take pics of the kids and its rarely done by theolder kids...they are too busy lighting the bonfires.
I guess its not as friendly here.
I have never met my neighbour..have tried but no...guess the community thing is different here.
You got it...we've been talking about it to our kids..everyone assumes its solely an American tradition....it dates way earlier than this...its a Celtic tradition...we just seem to have left it behind when we came over to Australia on boats
HollyHotLips
31-10-2006, 21:06
We havent had anyone knock at the door which is a refreshing change!! :thumbsup:
MY LITTLE FREAKS (i mean treats) HAD A GREAT NIGHT
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l132/my_lot/trickn.jpg
awww so cute
spiritedfamily
31-10-2006, 21:43
Anyone curious about Halloween's origins...this seems to be a website close to the old beliefs
http://www.neopagan.net/Halloween-Origins.html
Missus S
31-10-2006, 21:46
The only Trick or Treaters we had here tonight were my 3 little neices & nephews that my BIL drove over.
Oh well...........I'm just going to have to eat all those little packs of M&M's that I bought myself then :D
BTW - We loved doing it as kids..........although these days parents definitely need to be hovering in the background which you do often see.
bubs_and_us
31-10-2006, 22:05
i hate it! its soooo annoying. i opened the door ONCE this afternoon to some 7-8 year olds. gave them some lollies, and they didnt even say THANKYOU :eek:
so, i didnt answer the door after that! to make matters worse, a bunch of older kids came to the door, and constantly knocked for about 5 minutes......:banghead:
in the end, i wrote a sign and stuck it on my front window. in BIG, BOLD letters:
DO NOT KNOCK... BABY SLEEPING
And nobody knocked after that :thumbsup:
cheezelkat
31-10-2006, 22:23
We had two lots turn up - I've never had trick or treaters before. I wasn't expecting it so I offloaded my stash of Freddos (one was a pair of 6 year old devils! :devil6: Couldn't say no). DP wasn't happy the chocolate is gone.
I refused to answer the door after 8.30pm - far too late :shame:
Next year I'm going to make up lolly bags for them.
MY LITTLE FREAKS (i mean treats) HAD A GREAT NIGHT
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l132/my_lot/trickn.jpg
How Cute!!!!!:yes:
I wish some came to my door!
melbryan
31-10-2006, 22:30
My girlfriend and I got our kids together and just visited each other's houses for lollies it was cool. I wouldn't trust anyone near where I live we walked with them and they got excited with all there lollies.
We didn't go scary we dressed up as bob the builder with tools but Ds1 wouldn't take his clothes off underneath so he was hot and bothered by the end of it. Had to bribe him with lollies. And lots of them.
BlueEyedGirl
31-10-2006, 22:42
My sister's birthday is today, and so we have always celebrated:laughing: . My little sister and niece wanted to go trick or treating, so Isabelle got dressed up in her chicken costume (from sisters party on the weekend) and I strapped her in the pram and off we went. We only knocked on doors that looked occupied (screen door closed, front door open) and some of the houses looked like they had signs on them.
It was great for me, as I got a bit of exercise:D
SweetSerenity
31-10-2006, 22:47
I was lucky i only had two streams of kids, the first lot i had nothing to give as i totally forgot it was Halloween...so hubby went off to coles and bought a bag of lollies, we had one more lot come at around 8:30pm and they scored ha ha...
Im not really into it. Not many people actually do get into it over here in Australia.
Too american for me!
Ana Gram
01-11-2006, 13:56
We love Halloween. It is more important than Xmas to us.
SassyMummy
01-11-2006, 14:00
I do the Halloween thing...and luckily for me, the street is primarily made up of old people...so no Trick or Treat-ers here! (I don't have any lollies for them anyway...).
I don't believe in celebrating Halloween because it's kind of an American thing... and it's just a bit weird, IMO, for kids to go trick or treating in Australia, because you'll end up with more weird looks than lollies... (Plus, I think EASTER is bad enough on kids teeth... no need on having another tooth-rotting day in hte year!).
That said, I think it's REALLY fun to dress up, and hopefully when DD"s older I'll be able to hold some sort of Halloween party for her and her friends... maybe I'll be on the P&C just so I can organise a school Halloween dance or something! FUN FUN!
When she gets older, I'll also be very happy to arrange one of those "How to Host a Murder" parties... the kids ones, and hten the adult ones. I've been to, and held a few, of them... and htey're just so much fun!
lilpearl
01-11-2006, 14:05
Yes, we had three groups of kids to the door last night. Not being American, I had no lollies on hand to speak of, and so we had to let them down. I think it's terrible that parents are letting their children door knock without supervision. Then what REALLY annoyed me was that the last lot that knocked did so after our house was in complete darkness (we get tired early these days, and went to bed as soon as we'd put the kids down, for a quiet read and chat). Despite the darkness of the house, these kids banged on the door for dear life, then when my husband opened it, yelled in his face "trick or treat!!!"....why are their parents letting them do this in the dark??? Let alone, i thought they'd wake our children....you'd think they'd have SOME sense.
bearsmummy
01-11-2006, 14:13
I personally wouldn't allow my kids (when their older) to go round collecting sweets from strangers.... Isn't that what we tell our kids never to do. God knows what some sicko's could do...
I agree!!! I guess its good that most parents accompany their kids these days but some dont seem to care if their kids wander the streets alone.:shame:
As for kids not dressed up asking for lollies or no manners! :banghead:
Trying to get my kids to bed was a mission last night with the constant door knocking! aaaargh! :mad:
Each to their own but its not a holiday for me or my kids.
maybe I'll be on the P&C just so I can organise a school Halloween dance or something! FUN FUN!
Sassy this is exactly what I am going to suggest at school next year, I think it is a great way for the kids to have some fun and a lot safer than knocking on the doors of strangers.
SweetSerenity
01-11-2006, 14:20
Im also a bit concerned about children being allowed to walk around without supervision....
My mum had a 4yr old and 5 yr old come to her door without ANYONE!!!!
She even walked outside to see if anyone was waiting for them but not a soul in sight :no: Not good at all!!!!
The ones i had come last night did have supervision, but some are being let out to walk around to strangers homes without any adults being around.
These days you just cant trust everyone which is sad!
candice_bree
01-11-2006, 14:30
I was furious at DP last night, some teens came trick or treating at our door, and they werent even dressed up or anything and he let them ho into my brand new pack of tim tams!!
Grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr :mad:
You guys are the fun police. Its just a bit of fun for the kids does it matter who came up with the idea.
We had about 30 kids from about 6.30pm until 8pm and all with parents in toe come through out the night.
My DS is only 14months and he loved it every time someone came to the down he couldnt crawel there fast enough and clapped hands to each group that came.
When he is a bit older we will be taking him for sure.
heymamma
01-11-2006, 15:16
You guys are the fun police. Its just a bit of fun for the kids does it matter who came up with the idea.
We had about 30 kids from about 6.30pm until 8pm and all with parents in toe come through out the night.
My DS is only 14months and he loved it every time someone came to the down he couldnt crawel there fast enough and clapped hands to each group that came.
When he is a bit older we will be taking him for sure.
I Agree.
TeamAwesome
01-11-2006, 16:06
We're Christians and I'd like to point out that Chistmas was originally Pagan as was Easter however its what you choose to see the meaning of and teach to your children....
For us Christmas is about spending time with family and giving not necessarily receiving and Easter is just remembering the good things and blessings we have in being alive and happy and healthy and with each other (cant really explain it much simpler to children anyway)
If we choose not to participate in Halloween thats fine just put up a sign (baby sleeping /shift worker sleeping both work well even for every day unwanted knockers) dont knock us for what we believe but I'm wondering however are those of you that are totally into Halloween against Christmas in some respect?
Just a thought. What would you do if you had carollers?
Natalie
SairBear
01-11-2006, 16:45
im over halloween.ive never been fully into it as in nz growing up it was never a big thing like it is in the US or like it is getting here.
my vent=
I had my DD and myself in tears last nite as my car and house got egged!!! :mad: My DP chased them away and i called the cops in tears as my car was damaged from the eggs and one egg almost smashed our dining room window.The cops turned up and said they would keep patrolling the area as they had had afew reports from this street. They left and afew or us neighbours congregagated on my driveway. we then got hit again, this time i got hit in the arm (big scratch near elbow) and it just missed DDs head. We counted 5 eggs thrown at us. Dp and neighbour ran after them again. And obviously scared them off for good cuz they dint come back ( it may have also been past their bed time and they had to go home)
The kids had no intentions of actually trick or treating they just thought it would be fun causing havoc. The were even egging lil kids and there siblings while they were genuinely getting into the spirit. We had lollies etc too but dint get to give any away.
I know its ll good fun but theres a line and these kids went over it!
Im so mad, and dissapointed i dont know if ill get into the spirit next yr.
Ana Gram
01-11-2006, 17:24
What would you do if you had carollers?
I don't answer the door to carollers.
bekkyboo
01-11-2006, 17:37
Havent had time to read back - As G is being poo...
But quick quick vent...
Last night kids - POUNDED our door - Im surprised that G didnt wake up. THen after i didnt answer the door in the first 30 sec, they POUNDED our glass next to the door...
Needless to say i had words to them - When they asked for the trick or treats - I did give thme treats - but i tricked them - they were
Fruity bix bars
bekkyboo
01-11-2006, 17:40
Just adding....
We normally dont minfd - but they were rude. They pounded so hard the door shook - the noise carried up the hallway.... Then with the glass knock - it sounded as if the glass would break... The kids were nnot teenagers,
I'm wondering however are those of you that are totally into Halloween against Christmas in some respect?
Just a thought. What would you do if you had carollers?
Natalie
I love christmas even more than hallowen
I would love it if carollers came to my door (thay used to in the UK)
TeamAwesome
02-11-2006, 07:25
I don't answer the door to carollers.
Just curious if you'd be offended if people didn't open up to you trick or treating?
would you put up a sign to let carollers know you werent interested or would you yell at them?
The reason I ask is just know a different point of view and cos I had some cute kids carolling with their parents along last year (who knew we had kids) and their parent's told me that the kids loved making people smile with their songs (not christian orientated) ie jingle bells, santa is coming to town etc. and had had someone yell at them because they didnt celebrate christmas... so I guess I'm just trying to understand where you are coming from on the not big on christmas thing??
lilpearl
02-11-2006, 08:25
Carollers?...I've only seen them on American movies.
I'm completely against anyone coming to my door who isn't invited (that includes people trying to sell me things, including charity and religion...my home is my private space, and they have no right what-so-ever)...they can go have their "fun" at their own home!
I think it's just horrid that people think it's alright to knock on a strangers door at all, let alone at night....it's frightening, and I don't think it's safe to answer...I never do.
spiritedfamily
02-11-2006, 09:30
I noted a post that wondered if people who believe in christmas also believe in Halloween.
I believe in the christian value of Christmas...I also understand its origin and some of our children are old enough to know the full history...when it comes to the celebration itself...we are able to truely embrace it because we have the big picture...we understand all factors surrounding it...now just what my church tells me..I don't teach my kids that Santa is real yet I will teach them about where the belief in him came from...
As for Halloween....I think equally its important to truly understand what its about...I think one could say its appreciation for history. We don't believe it in our heart...we respect what it is and those who wish to participate in its festivities and I'd say many of my ancestors (irish) would have participated so I guess to me...I have some connection but I don't feel I'll be cursed or stop being filled with god's love if read about it and observe the actions of others around me.
Fun Police....mmm interesting notion...
Learning about what something means or why it exists...I wouldn't say its spoiling the fun...education is a great tool...one should never stop educating themselves...and in effect one can probably have more fun...knowledge is freedom
spiritedfamily
02-11-2006, 09:35
I do agree that everyone has the right to their privacy...if you want to put a sign up saying don't knock baby sleeping, night shift worker...etc...that is your choice...generally people respect this...equally those that don't mind a knock on halloween or Christmas eve...will have treats ready or a friendly smile.
We have a gate entry to our house...so I suppose this gives us more freedom to choose who enters
Oscar's mum
02-11-2006, 09:45
I'm completely against anyone coming to my door who isn't invited
Oh me too, my list extends to having friends and family coming to my door uninvited too - pet hate of mine!
At our old house we never had aircon or fans and live in Brisbane so it get's rather hot and I had just got home and was soooo hot so I stripped off and just had a shirt on when this guy (insurance sales man) rocked up at my door and walked inside without being invited might I add trying to sell me his insurance policy! Here I am sitting on my lounge chair with only a top on and a lounge cushion to cover my privates! :eek:
Ever since then I don't like anyone at all coming over uninvited:no:
heymamma
02-11-2006, 10:01
I was telling DH about what some of the reply's on here were.. how people didnt think we shouldnt celebrate halloween as its american (Which it isnt its celtic) But yet im sure they celebrate xmas & easter.
xmas:http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christmas
Easter:http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Easter
Yet people all over the world make it a santa claus, gifts, lights etc.
Also egg's.bunnies, & other things. So do you see what im saying... People say "Oh i dont celebrate halloween as it american" or whatever...yet im sure you celebrate xmas & easter. IYKWIM
aries_moon
02-11-2006, 10:13
I'd just like to add, that I grew up in CANADA which is a completely different country to America (just clarifying that cuz a lot of aussies seem to not realize this if you can believe it!!) anyway, as the PP stated it is of celtic origin or something anyway. Halloween was always such a fun day to look forward to as a kid because it was that one day that made it ok to be able to go to strangers house trick or treating (w/parental supervision of course). So no, it should in no way be teaching your child "inconsistancy" when yes you would normally be enforcing the "stay away from strangers" rule, but that is what sets Halloween apart. It's fun to get out of the norm for a bit, not to mention dressing up in cute costumes, carving pumpkins, decorating the house etc; As an adult it's usually a fun nite as well, because normally the neighbourhoods gathers for a party and fireworks. It's called spirit. Let's get over the whole "american tradition" thing, that's such a lame cop out.
Oscar's mum
02-11-2006, 10:17
So no, it should in no way be teaching your child "inconsistancy" when yes you would normally be enforcing the "stay away from strangers" rule, but that is what sets Halloween apart.
Bit like telling your kid go sit on Santa's lap and get your photo taken;)
We had a strict no costume no treat policy. Luckily we didnt have anyone show up out of costume and most definitely didnt have any loons.
Im open minded to absolutely everything and have the ability to seperate my beliefs from life experience. I too am christian but allowing my child to dress up and trick or treat for the one night with supervison of course does not challenge or make me question my own beliefs.
We had a group of 6 kids show up at the door, with mums in tow....they were gorgeous!
DD didnt go this year as we werent organised enough but next year is definitely on the cards. I think the balloon on the mailbox for participating households is a great idea. That way the littlies dont get their wee hearts broken by grumpy people who dont want to be involved.
Everything is all in good fun, so tolerance is the key.
Place a sign out if for whatever reason you would prefer not to be disturbed/
As for the vandals etc, thats just not on :thumbsdown: theres always a few that ruin it for everyone else.
SixtiesChild
02-11-2006, 11:16
We get a steady stream of kids every year.
But, we don't support it because it is conflicting to our beliefs.
I'm sure they don't mean any harm but I wonder sometimes if they know exactly what they are celebrating? Most of the kids are just in it for the lollies and whatever they can get. They are just kids.
But these kids know us and they know from past experience that we give them yummy homebaked cookies at any other day of the year.
We just aren't in a position to encourage halloween, so we tell them that we have our special reasons for not supporting it and also that it's bad for their teeth :p
I think that by briefly explaining our reasons, the kids may gain an understanding of diversity.
But really I don't have time to answer the door all night long.
And I too have a sleeping baby so maybe next year, I might put out a sign. Good idea!:thumbsup:
Ana Gram
02-11-2006, 12:38
Just curious if you'd be offended if people didn't open up to you trick or treating?
would you put up a sign to let carollers know you werent interested or would you yell at them?
The reason I ask is just know a different point of view and cos I had some cute kids carolling with their parents along last year (who knew we had kids) and their parent's told me that the kids loved making people smile with their songs (not christian orientated) ie jingle bells, santa is coming to town etc. and had had someone yell at them because they didnt celebrate christmas... so I guess I'm just trying to understand where you are coming from on the not big on christmas thing??
No I wouldn't be offended although it would be easier if you knew before you knocked.
I just wouldn't open the door to people singing. If they didn't go away, I would then ask them politely to leave. We don't do Santa in this house, so songs about Santa would definately not be wanted.
I didn't say that we weren't big on Xmas. We still do Xmas as it is important to me family but we simply like Halloween better.
Mamaduke
02-11-2006, 12:40
We had not one trick or treater come to our door and I was very disappointed...I was all set to get into the festivities!!
My goddaughter wanted to go trick or treating and her Mum said to her that if she found out what Halloween was actually about, where it comes from and why it's celebrated then she can do it (she's 6)...Gracie's response was, "Oh Mum, I don't care what it's all about...I just want the lollies!" :laughing:
Gracie didn't go trick or treating this year!
Mamaduke
02-11-2006, 12:42
Welcome back chelle!! :wave:
RoarsomeMum
02-11-2006, 13:03
We had heaps of knocks.. I would not mind Australia embracing Halloween, but could some-one have let me know???
Jay loved it!! Woooooof woof woof!
HollyHotLips
02-11-2006, 13:21
I am not a fan of trick or treating, it's really begging with menaces isnt it (give me a sweet or else!)?
We used to have halloween cakes and make a jack o lantern as well when we were little, and halloween parties in the brownies when we used to do silly games like ducking for apples and dress up - now that's more fun! :D
We don't celebrate it, so therefore i do not give treats out when they knock on my door, it would be hypocritical of me to do that as i don't allow my kids to celebrate it.
Each to their own. It is sad to turn the kids away but hey i have to stick to my principles.:)
HollyHotLips
02-11-2006, 17:03
Must admit I didnt think halloween was evil or anything, just a bit of harmless fun for the kids...!
[quote=Mamaduke;776021]We had not one trick or treater come to our door and I was very disappointed...I was all set to get into the festivities!!
quote]
We didnt have any action here either :no: Have to admit i wasn't feeling 100% and i didnt get into it the way i was planning :(
but A Few tot's would have made my night!
misskittyfantastico
02-11-2006, 17:10
I think Halloween is good fun! It's not an American tradition, it's got great celtic origins - all hallowed eve etc...America just made it a "holiday" the same way Santa Claus and coke did to Christmas. Get into the true spirit of these occasions and have a good time!
For me this is the reason why - sorry i just pasted from a site.
Halloween
Halloween is celebrated by millions of people as a fun time for kids, putting on costumes, and going door-to-door to get candy. But it is also known as a time of witches, ghouls, goblins, and ghosts. On one hand, some see halloween as a harmless time of fun and on the other, a ghastly and demonically inspired night to be avoided.
As Christians, there is a lot of debate on whether or not we should participate in Halloween. Is it alright to go trick-or-treating? Can we dress our kids up in costumes on that day? If we do any of this, are we celebrating an evil holiday?
Halloween's Origins
The word Halloween is derived from the term "All Hallows Eve" which occurred on Oct. 31, the end of summer in Northwestern Europe. "All Saints Day," or "All Hallows Day" was the next Day, Nov. 1st. Therefore, Halloween is the eve of All Saints Day.
Apparently, the origins of Halloween can be traced back to ancient Ireland and Scotland around the time of Christ. On Oct. 31st, the Celts celebrated the end of summer. This was important because it was when animal herders would move their animals into barns and pens and prepare to ride out the winter. This was also the time of the crop harvests. This annual change of season and lifestyle was marked by a festival called Samhain -- pronounced 'sow-ane' and means 'end of summer.' Sow rhythms with cow.
There was much superstition associated with this time of change including the belief in fairies, and that the spirits of the dead wandered around looking for bodies to inhabit. Since the living did not want to be possessed by spirits, they dressed up in costumes and paraded around the streets making loud noises to confuse and frighten the spirits away. In addition, the new year began for the Celts on Nov. 1. So, the day of Samhain was believed to be a day that was in neither the year past or the year to come. Since it was in between, chaos ruled on that day. Often, people would pull practical jokes on others as a result.
Later, around the 5th century, as the Catholic Church developed and moved into the area, instead of adding a new day to celebrate, it took over the Samhain celebration. Nov. 1st became "All Hallows Eve" where all the saints of the Catholic church were honored. A later custom developed where people would go door-to-door on Nov. 2, requesting small cakes in exchange for the promise of saying prayers for some of the dead relatives of each house. This arose out of the religious belief that the dead were in a state of limbo before they went to heaven or hell and that the prayers of the living could influence the outcome. This may have been the precursor to Trick-or Treat.
The Jack-0-Lantern apparently comes from Irish folklore about a man named Jack who tricked the devil into climbing a tree. Once the devil was in the tree, Jack carved a cross on the trunk, preventing the devil from coming down. The devil then made a deal with Jack to not allow Jack into hell after Jack died if only Jack would remove the cross from the tree. After Jack died, he couldn't go to hell, and he couldn't go to heaven. He was forced to wander around the earth with a single candle to light his way. The candle was placed in a turnip to keep it burning longer. When the Irish came to America in the 1800's, they adopted the pumpkin instead of the turnip. Along with these traditions, they brought the idea that the black cat was considered by some to be reincarnated spirits who had prophetic abilities.
So, it appears that the origins of Halloween are a mixture of old Celtic pagan rituals superstition and early Catholic traditions.
What does the Bible say about Halloween?
What does the Bible say about Halloween? Nothing. But it does speak concerning witches, the occult, and paganism.
Exodus 22:18, You shall not let a witch live.
Deut. 18:10-12, "Let no one be found among you who sacrifices his son or daughter in the fire, who practices divination or sorcery, interprets omens, engages in witchcraft, 11 or casts spells, or who is a medium or spiritist or who consults the dead. 12 Anyone who does these things is detestable to the LORD…"
The Bible definitely speaks negatively about occultic practices, spirits, and witches and condemns not only the practice but also the people who are involved in it. As Christians, we are to have nothing to do with the occult. Tarot Cards, contacting the dead, s�ances, lucky charms, etc., are all unbiblical and can harm a Christian's fellowship with God and open the Christian to demonic oppression. Most Christians know this and avoid these activities. But, the question still remains. Since there are ancient pagan connections and present occultic connections, what is the Christian to do?
Well this sums it up for me as a christian. But thats my interpretation.
I have never liked it and never will, my home will be halloween free.
I feel very uncomfortable with the whole concept, but i can definately see the fun side of it.
SassyDiva
02-11-2006, 17:33
Well this thread has taken off... Didn't realise so many people felt so strongly about Halloween.
I'd just like to add....My OP wasn't about me being anti this holiday..pro another.. Simply saying that I have a real problem with 16 year olds repeatedly rining my door bell, then being extremly rude saying..'So what do you have for us'..not even in a costume or anything (I mean..throw a white sheet over your self, make some effort).
I would never deny a child a treat when they come to my door all dressed up just trying to have some fun.
My issue's are (from what I saw on the night) lack of supervision, taking food from a stranger (I'd never allow my child to), rude kids and those who are into it just to see what they can score..
If one of my boys looked at Christmas as a day to just see what they get...I'd wonder where I went wrong.....
Ana Gram
02-11-2006, 22:37
That is indeed what it means Princess, and it was this one sentence that the church used to murder thousands of men, women and children.
Mamaduke
02-11-2006, 22:44
I don't really think that letting your children out and about 'trick or treating' is going to condemn their souls to hell...
that only happens if they barrack for Collingwood! :D
I think it very unchristian of burning those who practice witchcraft, this is a biblical guidline and only God can initiate judgement.
Also remember people were crucified for even reading the bible or having different opinions from the church, so so very wrong:no:
On a cheerful note everyone has the right to make their own decisions:)
Ana Gram
03-11-2006, 13:12
Absolutely, they had some really nutty ideas back then and there wasn't many ways to interpret that particular line about witches. At the start, they thought they were doing what they were supposed to according to the bible, unfortunately some very nasty people ran away with the idea and lots of people died in very horrible ways, not just burning at the stake. And the vast majority of them were not witches.
Mikeswifey
09-11-2006, 16:09
I didnt even know it was halloween until I had a family of 6 kids from across the road rock up on my door step and say "trick or treat".
I had to let them down and when I closed the door I heard the youngest say "but we didnt get any lollies" in this really sad little voice. :gloomy:
Next year I will be prepared with a big bag of freddo's or something. :idea:
last year the only kids that came were from two doors down. they are all in high school and none of them bothered to dress up, they just wanted to score lollies for free. (i cant blame them i want free lollies too) but we didnt have anything except some chocolate biscuits so my mum gave them the whole packet and i missed out:mad:
so this year i pulled the blinds down early and closed the door. when they came i peeked from upstairs to see who it was and sure enough it was those kids again, not dressed up, so i just ignored them, they stood there for 5mins and knocked about 500times coz the lights were all on. they then came back 30mins later and waited another 5mins and even tried to call out to us, but i just ignored them
if it had been little kids that were dressed up then i would have given them something but i will not waste our money (which we dont have much of) to give annoying kids lollies, especially if they dont even dress up!
stupid tradition i think, and one my son will not participate in when he gets older.
Ashleigh<3
11-11-2006, 17:03
jordy&jacksmum, I would certainly have had words to say to non-genuine trick or treaters!!
I don't think there are a lot of people who would feel comfortable sending their kids out alone to beg lollies off strangers. Most people I know who do take their kids ToT'ing only go to neighbours & others they know.
I would welcome ToT'ers around to my place - I went & bought treats especially for them, but none came.
Oh well, perhaps next year!!
As for the American holiday bizzo, well.... I will just say that kids will be kids & kids will have fun. They don't know (or care!) where the tradition originated, and why should they??
IMO there is nothing wrong with us adopting a few fun traditions from elsewhere in the world. Would it make a difference if the tradition came from England or Venezuela or Tibet???
I agree! Living in Australia, one of the most multicultural-accepting countries in the world, you'd think we'd accept other holidays and traditions from all over.
We don't have to abide by them, but saying, "Ughh i refuse to celebrate it because it's 'American' " - Well I just think that's a little incorrect and not a very good excuse IYKWIM?:cool:
When I lived in the states, every year when Halloween came around, seemed to be more celebrated then Christmas! It was crazy.
But I also remember learning about it and Halloween never originated in America, they just abused it made a super big deal about it all! Probably just the excitment of getting to wear a costume and getting to eat candy helped too!
I'm not 100% certain but I'm pretty sure it either originated in England or Scotland.
Every Halloween the streets would be packed with a group of kids, various age groups, the little kids always had an adult with them, there were even safety guideline rules/Stranger danger awareness/don’t ever eat unwrapped lollies, etc- that we'd have to learn whilst in school in preparation for Halloween.
I never went tricker treating without my parent's and we never had a group of kids at our front door without an Adult present. And everyone was always dressed up! That was the point. The little kids always had a ball! And most parent’s would take the lollies their kids would collect, go through them and make sure they hadn't been opened yet, and ration it out with the other siblings if one got more then the other, it was just something every family I know would do to create fairness and stop the sibling squabbles.
So Halloween that has just passed, I had three 16-17 year old kids at least, (I figured this as one was smoking) "tricker treat, give us some lollies plzzzz".
NOT EVEN DRESSED IN COSTUMES!
I just laughed at them and said, “sorry, I gave the last lot to the little kids”,
(hoping they would become offended!)- and why not!?
If you're going to go around asking for lollies, which to me, is a bit rude.
And use the excuse that you're 'tricker treating'…?
What a joke... Can't you just go to the store and buy your own lollies? Save yourself the embarrassment please.
IMO- Sorry to scare or offend anyone.:no: Halloween is just one of those holidays where we make it easier for cereal killers. rapists, paedophiles, etc to have their go!
Now I know that sounds horrible but think about it, if kids go tricker treating alone or with a small group of friends- I'm trying not to imagine what could happen- But we all know that anything can happen, especially if we make it this easy for criminals!:(
So the best thing to do if we do decide to celebrate Halloween, take our kids tricker treating, they should have an adult present always. Go about it the safest way possible.
Oh and Kids have Rebelled against their parent’s wishes for them to not go tricker treating, My friends used to sneak out of the house to do it. So maybe be careful next time.
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