Diwali, the Festival of Lights, the Hindu celebration of victory over evil, has become a tradition in our home.  Last year, we celebrated Diwali on All Saint’s Day with a party.  We asked our guests to dress as their favorite saint, from Drew Brees (for those of you who don’t live in NOLA, he’s the city’s favorite Saints quarterback) to Mother Theresa.  We decorated the house with white lights, and made Kajal Burfi, a cashew fudge, with silver foil.

Tricia chose to dress like one of her most beloved saints - Gandhi.  She donned a spray tan, a dhoti, and a plastic “bald” cap.  As Lakshmi, the Goddess of Fortune, the best part of being that character (besides having long black hair for the evening) was giving gold chocolate coins to the kids.

This year, we’re celebrating Diwali with dance.  Tricia, representing NOLA – and Eden and her friends, representing the Evergreen State – are learning the steps to Michael Jackson’s Thriller.    My classmates and I are practicing our dance to the majestic Hindi song Vande Mataram.  This weekend are the two big events!  Not letting the holiday go by without making it extra special, however, Tricia surprised me with some lovely Diwali gifts: