Samhain tidings

Pumpkins came inside today. Samhain invitations went out. Summer exits, fall arrives.

I had to rush to get the invitation done by the equinox. Could've designed it better but I spent all my fun time lifting the death's head from Ephraim Jons's gravestone. (He won't mind. He died in 1710.)

As always, if you didn't get an emailed invitation from us, it's an oversight, not a snub. If you've been here before, we want you back again.

Maybe you've never been and got an invite this year. "Who the heck sent this?" you're thinking. "Where the devil is this bonfire?" Well, keep your witches' britches buckled. We'll get in touch with you personally in a day or two. Or email us at samhainfire@live.com.

Bonfire veterans know how it goes. Endless plates of homemade munchies, the glow of a glorious blaze, the flow of good cheer, the flash of swords and gore of pumpkins slain in battle, the seven-color sacrifice, smoky clothes and, of course, the greenman's secret.

It's all outside no matter what the weather. We've seen gales, rain and snow. We've also seen a 60-degree night with a brilliant full moon. Please come in costume if you'd like, but dress for the weather, too.

Bring a camera. Bring an acoustic instrument. Bring a sharp-edged weapon. Bring a coy, saucy, devilish 'tude.

The celebration starts at 8 p.m. Anyone arriving earlier will be put to work. But don't be late for the Sacrifice, which usually starts about 9:30.

Looking forward to seeing you there.