$2 Billion - that’s how much money shoppers are expected to spend on candy for Halloween.  That’s 2 with nine zeros following it - $2,000,000,000!  How much of this is going on credit cards adding to debt?  How many credit cards will be used to pay for the medicine purchased for all the kids who will eat this candy and then get sick?  How much money will be spent paying for dentist bills afterwards?  Halloween is a costly holiday and no one even gets presents - just candy full of fake dyes, flavors, and sugar. 

What’s the solution?  Since we are warned not to give out or receive anything thing that is not packaged, why not some small bags of trail mix, crackers (Cheddar Bunnies), and even cookies (Late July) that kids love - the ones that meet our Better Food Choices standards? Joseph’s Lite Cookies has some little snack paks of cookies that have been Kid Kritics Approved.  This is money better spent.  I also like the idea of having parties with home-cooked treats, especially those using fruit.  Serve a good ice cream made with real cane sugar and cream topped with frozen berries and nuts (for those not allergic) - yum!   If you use chocolate syrup, make sure it is Ah! Laska.  Let’s Go Organic has some sprinkles made with natural food colors that are fun. 

As a child years ago, I loved running around our village in a home-made costume going from house to house for treats.  There was one house always to be avoided because they always made you do a trick first- sing a song or something - before they gave you anything.  I am afraid that those days of fun innocent trick or treating are over - too many real scary possibilites in today’s world of “crazies”.  Unfortunately, this holiday tends to lend itself to bad experiences.  

Please spend your portion of this $2 billion on good healther food and fun.