Hallowe'en

Hallowe'en, or Samhain, has many faces for me, especially as a daughter and a mother.

It's said that on this day spirits of those who have passed return to us, but even if you don't believe this, Hallowe'en is an excellent time to think of loved ones who are no longer with us and celebrate their lives. That may be by visiting their grave, lighting a candle and placing it by their photo or just taking the time to think about them. I'll be remembering my parents and other family members.

As the beginning of the Celtic year and the onset of winter, Hallowe'en is also a time to look forward to what we want to achieve, what we want to change, and what has worked so well over the past year that we want to continue it on.

For my children of course, Hallowe'en is a time of magic and fun. My two have their costumes sorted, ready to greet the trick or treaters at our front door with excited giggles and a bag of sweets. We'll be cooking together, talking about their late grandparents and playing some games too. We have our pumpkin ready to carve and I'll use the innards to make some pumpkin soup.

Pumpkins and berries bring their glorious colours to this time of year. They lend themselves well to table centres and wreaths. Orange chrysanthemums can look great in a scrooped out pumpkin. Tiny pumpkins or gourds can be tied to name cards and used as place settings for your guests. Spray apples golden, leaving a leaf attached, to add to your decorations and ensure gold in your purse.

However you celebrate this weekend, have a wonderful time.