The Season of the Witch

Changing seasons once again triggers a number of questions, primarily, where does the time go? The young count the days between holidays and school vacations while we count calendar days and days to do shopping for (yes, THAT holiday.)  Countdowns will begin to appear in sales circulars and storefronts urging us to shop early to ensure delivery.

Fall arrived today with warm temperatures, sun playing peek-a-boo with the clouds and breezes filled with drops of rain. The warm days are still with us despite the past weekend unusual chill. It's hard to believe the  clocks will change, we'll don sweaters and socks and begin our lists of gifts to buy.

The Christmas Shoppe in Southport will be busy with residents and visitors buying unique ornaments for themed trees, penny candy for stuffing in stockings and the nautical gifts noted during summer vacation visits.

There are rooms devoted to babies and young children, young divas and every family's prankster. Throughout the displays the winter season is well represented. 

But climb the stairs and suddenly you are right back into Fall and the excitement of every child's favorite holiday, Halloween.  

The spiders drop from the ceiling and witches poke their warty noses into black cauldrons of brew.

Black wreaths adorn the door where signs remind us the Witch is In.

Orange pumpkins, skeleton lights and the whispering of the ghosts hiding behind the door signal the shopper to stop and look, there is another holiday celebrated here. 

Pass Santa at the door and climb the stairs. 

Follow the spooky sounds into the darkened room to see it must be the Season of the Witch.