A set of unexpected natural phenomena and the approach of All Hallow's Eve combine to make this a time of advanced emotional confusion. Let's start with foliage. By the end of October, it should be brown and on the ground. In fact, however, some is brown; some is green, and much of it remains suspended aloft. This image was taken yesterday.

 

Since that photo, of course, we've received the largest snowfall on record for this early date. So we're witnessing leaves falling on a foot of white stuff. Apple trees fronting Beech Hill and Mt. Kearsarge from East Andover (where I am current snowbound) this morning:

 

Adding to our sense of drift is Halloween, which we observed Saturday. Obviously, the dress code is suspended for the morning class. Robert and Elias (in pajamas) construct a poster in Introduction to Literature.

 

As the snow began to fall Saturday evening, we enjoyed a ghoulish holiday dinner, followed by the 7th annual "Hell Dormitorium" haunted house at Eco-Dorm, which prompted audible screams from touring groups. When you think you're done and step out into the storm, you're greeted by faculty wielding a bloody ax and a roaring chainsaw....




Now the craziness gravitates to the Wise Center (and lobby), where a professional disc jockey is cranking tunes for the dance (no dirty dancing allowed) and parent volunteers serve up Halloween-inspired snacks and beverages. The cleverest costumes involve small teams of students, such as these radical social protesters.

 




It might be wise to not comment on some themes.....

 













The amount of work invested by the Student Activities Office, faculty and staff to make our weekends busy, healthy and fun deserves plaudits throughout the year. This weekend, we should also thank the kitchen staff (once again!), parent volunteers and the people of Eco-dorm. 

 

So ends the month of October!