The Most Sincere Pumpkin Patch

Charlie Brown's friend Linus famously sought the most sincere pumpkin patch in the world to wait for the Great Pumpkin. Guess what, Linus? I've found it.

This is me brother Patrick's pumpkin patch, lovingly set out every October for Halloween. I think I would like to spend the night in it, as I'm certain it's the one within which the Great Pumpkin will alight. Yet as a 64 year-old man with sinus issues and an aversion to being committed, I think I'll pass. 

I hope the Great Pumpkin forgives me. And that he forgivingly brings my gifts down the block.

Mom's Marathon Redux

The Detroit Marathon has come and gone (hah!) and I have to say the day was grand, a cold, early start notwithstanding. Mom got up in plenty of time for it, insisting all day Saturday that she wanted to see it. 

She was quite pleased. Dressed up for winter and even draping a quilt around her, she sat for the the entire 45 minutes it took for the runners and walkers and bicyclists to pass. "This is nice!" she said constantly, waving regularly at the participants.

It especially pleased her to hear people shout compliments about the Halloween decorations spread about the lawn. "I'm glad they like Sammy's yard," she remarked several times. Moms appreciate when their kids are appreciated.

On that note, one woman took a minute to say to Sam directly, "You have a very sincere pumpkin patch." He always has pumpkins all over the place. And Charlie Brown fans surely appreciate the compliment.