What’s everyone doing for safety precautions for Halloween? My husband came across an article (i-newswire.com) with some info about background checking neighbors. I thought that may be a little overboard but it had some other good suggestions for some precautions I haven’t thought about. Last year my youngest son came down with a massive fever after Halloween. I almost thought about just taking the kids to our church’s fall festival this year instead of door-to-door to prevent that from happening again. I don’t know yet. What’s your advice? Am I over-reacted or just being a concerned mom?

- Shelly Haggerty

This is my son Caleb, he was very proud he was given so many lollies on Wednesday night! His sister took him with her friend and her grandmother Trick or Treating on Halloween.

"Look Daddy I still got a lolly left from Trick or Treating!!"

- Bill

If you get asked that question over the next few days - here are some ready-made reponses for you:

1. Very short answer:
Because I said so

2. Short answer:
It's complicated - go and ask your mum

3. Long answer:
The term Halloween, originally spelled Hallowe’en, is shortened from All Hallows' Even – e'en is a shortening of even, which is a shortening of evening. This is ultimately derived from the Old English Eallra H?lgena ?fen which is now known as "Eve of" All Saints' Day. (All Saints Day is November 1st). Halloween has roots in the Celtic festival of Samhain and the Christian holy day of All Saints. It is largely a secular celebration but some have expressed strong feelings about perceived religious overtones.

[thank you Wikipedia]