Sep 25, 2017
Homesick for Halloween
Every year about this time I get a little homesick. It's strange because any other time of the year I'm happy to be here and never even want to think about back in the states. But as soon as September hits, Japan shuts off from summer fun times and falls head first into autumn, and Halloween decorations. Oh the joy of jack-o-lanters everywhere and pumpkin flavored everything! But in Japan, there really isn't Halloween. No one is getting excited about planning their costumes. 
There may be Halloween decorations all over the grocery stores and on nearly every item you come across, but no one has anything up on their homes. There is also no excitement about trick or treating, and with three children, it's about the only thing I want to lug them across the pacific ocean for. Japan instead has "Halloween party". This means a home party with family eating snacks and sushi, or a small event at the local community center where kids get to put on black and purple skirts and color pictures of warewolves. So while I enjoy my "Halloween party" ham on my grilled cheese, I'll continue to browse pinterest with wishes and dreams of one day dressing up my babies for a real hallow's eve.
btw, the pumpkin maple yogurt in the photo was the bomb shizzle.
4 Comments
genkidesu
on Sep 25
YES! I love that yogurt!! Would definitely get it again. We spent the last few years at an Air Force base near Tokyo, so it still felt like "American" Halloween...costumes, candy, trick or treaters. It's going to be weird not having that this year. I miss all the fall stuff from the states...cheap and cute decorations...scented candles...gimme it all!
edthethe
on Sep 26
@genkidesu oh yes! best yogurt! i wonder if i wanted to, could i go to the base for halloween? ive never actually been, but is it ok for civilians to visit the base?
genkidesu
on Sep 26
@edthethe you'd have to have someone at the base sponsor you on (you need a military ID card otherwise). If my husband was still in the military and we still lived there I would have welcomed you with open arms (and lots of candy and familiar food!!)
edthethe
on Sep 26
@genkidesu i wonder if i can find someone i know... hmmmmm thanks for this idea though!!!