GMT

Hurray! The clocks went back and the kids were so tired they were all in bed by 8, despite all the excitement. We didn't get any trick-or-treaters, but we never do here- they're too scared/lazy to go up a darkened bridleway next to a graveyard! We had pumpkins in the windows, though, just in case there are are any real spooks out there. (Not quite sure what effect all this is having on F's nightmares, hopefully it will blow them away.) Anyway, J read a whole reading book before bed. Her reading is improving at an amazing rate. She is so keen. I have never pushed reading. I'm sure she has more energy and enthusiasm for reading in the evening because she is not being tired out at school. And, there's so much more time to read when they don't watch TV, of course. http://www.tvturnoff.org/index.htm Sorry, that was so smug.

Just been having another look at the muddlepuddle links to seasonal crafts and surfing. Found some stuff about the day of the dead (Dia de los Muertos), Mexican festival celebrated Oct 31 to Nov 2. to remember dead loved ones. http://www.azcentral.com/ent/dead/ -It has craft videos! I love the idea of friendly, decorated, non-scary skeletons - recognising, but not fearing death. Trouble is, i can't think of any dead loved ones I want to build an ornate alter to. I'm not sure if think John Peel qualifies....Jimmy the cat? Bob the fish? Can't do Bob - dont have any photo's.