In our family, there is a mythical character who periodically appears.

The character appears when the youngsters least expect it to, and soon the room is filled with sounds of screaming laughter because of all the tickling that’s happening.

The characters name is Papa Gorilla.

This ghoulish gorilla first arrived on the scene during a family celebration — maybe Halloween? — and is known for his secret and sudden appearances. The kiddos of the family always come to me and ask if Papa Gorilla will come to us. I respond that the character always arrives when least expected, but that I did hear he is in the neighborhood.

The little ones will listen and turn away to do something else. Guess what happens?

Papa Gorilla stealthily grabs the kiddo from behind, tickles the heck out of the victim, and those squeals of laughter announce the arrival of Papa Gorilla.

After a little while, the mystical creature disappears and a family tradition has been fulfilled. So, is there a real Papa Gorilla or am I making up this whole story? Who is he? Let’s say the story fits the haunting stories of Halloween.

The origin of Halloween goes back to the ancient pagan Celtic festival of Samhain. It was a celebration at the end of harvest, and the Celts believed the veil between the living and the dead became very thin allowing the ghosts to come and cause trouble. The people wore costumes and lit fires to ward off the ghosts and the devil. Hmm … a lot of that practice is still with us today — especially the costumes.

The Irish began the custom of pumpkin carving. At the time, they used gourds which then became our pumpkins. Who knows when putting a face on the pumpkin began? There’s a story about a fellow named Stingy Jack who tricked the devil out of some money, and in revenge, the devil continues to send goblins and ghosts to us to this day. Is all this true? Maybe Papa Gorilla can answer all those questions.

I think it’s time to have a glass of Line 39 Chardonnay. This lightly oaked wine pairs nicely with any pumpkin goodie. If you prefer a sweeter pour, the ghosts of the season would be happy to share a glass of sweet Port or a Moscato d’Asti. That tasting event would be scary, wouldn’t it?

As we all know, Halloween is a time for fun, laughter and sharing. It makes no difference if you are an ancient Celt or a modern day human, have some fun! Pass on your favorite Halloween stories which may include pumpkin carving events, face painting times or tell of the sweetest treats you received when you went trick or treating in your favorite costume.

May you always enjoy the ghostly time of Halloween. But, be aware! One never knows when Papa Gorilla will appear!

As always, eat and drink in moderation, but laugh with reckless abandon!

Cheers!