The carving of the pumpkin was always a highly anticipated event. The careful spreading out and layering of the sheets of newspaper all across the old kitchen table happened first.
Having a strainer and large spoons on hand was a must.
Dad would design a face with a pencil before he began. We’d all watch with anticipation as the ridged, round pumpkin soon came to life after the carving was completed.
The spooky, yet somewhat cheerful appearing face came about before our eager eyes. It seemed the angle of the eyebrows defined the final expression. No matter the result, it was always a unique look that surprised and delighted us immensely.
We each had a hand at scooping out the stringy, gooey pulp. It plopped down onto the newspaper. We’d sift through the orange gunk to find the hidden, slippery seeds that would sometimes jump away from us and land down onto the floor.
No matter though, as the seeds were placed into the strainer and mom would rinse and wash them off thoroughly before laying them on the cookie sheet. She would lightly salt them and set them in the oven for roasting.
The smell of the pulp coupled with the roasting seeds added to the scent of what Halloween smelled like.
Hallowed Eve is a time to remember all of the saints and beloved who once graced our lives while residing here on Earth among us. We have the fond memories of those who have gone before us. Recalling those fun and beautiful times together is something we can always carry with us.
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