I almost fell over when I looked at the blog tonight. Joe got it started by asking for an invitation and while I was at it, I invited a few more. And you guys posted! I was so encouraged that I invited everyone who sent me an email address to join so I hope to see more participation next week. Speaking of being from the 'Valley', my mother-in-law got me a book about the valley that was pretty funny. You can get a taste of it here. The valley has a rich and delightful culture all its own.

When I relate the following tradition to my friends who grew up elsewhere, they look at me like I'm from another planet. I recall growing up in the valley that we had to sing songs in order to get our Halloween treat. I've noticed that out here, it's just a mad dash with no entertainment value for the people doling out the candy when the trick or treaters visit. I feel so used at Halloween now that I'm on the giving end and not getting at least a little song for the candy. I was at the inlaws a few years back during Halloween and sure enough, the kids were singing songs and earning their candy. Has anyone else noticed that this wonderful tradition is only carried on in the 'valley'?.

Here's a fun fact about Wyoming Valley: I live close to Wyoming (the state) and I never waste an opportunity to remind my friends from Wyoming that I am from the 'Wyoming Valley' in PA for which their state is named. Really, I'm not making this up. 'Wyoming' is a Delaware Indian word that means 'valleys and mountains alternating' or 'wide open plains', depending on the translation.