Trick or Treat?

Hmmm...not sure which is better in this case? For our family we aren't choosing either. We don't eat refined sugar and Halloween is a holiday that well, clearly revolves around this. Though I was reading a health magazine and was pleased to see an article addressing healthy food alternatives - I may post one of these soon. Last year we made it through the holidays without succumbing to the sugar, though I must say that it's almost like being thrown into a parallel universe. While many speak of cookie swaps, holiday punch and don't forget candy canes, sugar drops...even in The Nutcracker is the dance of the sugar plum fairy. It is interesting to have grown up partaking in all this, and now choosing a distinctly different path for our daughter. Even in school, teachers throw candy at kids as a reward for good behavior, although simultaneously scoffing at the rampant sugar highs. I do not judge others for choosing to eat refined sugar, but what's odd to me is that I've been questioned and bullied to eat it by even young children. When I was a teacher, just two years ago, I had two beloved students who were incredulous when I stated I wouldn't bring in candy because I don't eat it. They could not fathom this and tried at ridiculous efforts to coerce me into eating everyone's sugary treats. Everyone is so worried about kids smoking or doing drugs, but dare I ask, is sugar any better??