A little Halloween magic and a lot of community love

When we bought our home in Freehold, I kept hearing wonderful things about the Henderson family over at Smiley & Sons on Route 67. This is a family with a passion for all kinds of old and classic vehicles, and believe me, they have some beauties!

My father, still slows down every time we drive by to take a look. Some things never get old! Over the eight years I've called Freehold home, I've had the pleasure of meeting many members of the Henderson family, and I've liked every single one of them.

On Saturday, October 17, I went with a bunch of my family over to their annual Trunk or Treat, and what a fantastic afternoon it was. The property was transformed into a Halloween wonderland, with vehicles decorated in their spooky, silly, and downright creative Halloween best. And the owners? They got right into the spirit, dressing up in costumes to match their vehicles while handing out candy to excited children from all over our area. Everywhere you looked, there were smiling faces, happy kids, and enough Halloween spirit to make even a grumpy old vampire crack a smile!

But what makes this event truly special goes far beyond candy, costumes, and classic cars. The Henderson family has deep roots in Freehold and the surrounding area. Over the years, they've given so much to the community they love, and when the family faced a time of need themselves years ago, that same community came together to help them. I know from experience that giving is a gift all its own, but it's always a great feeling knowing you are appreciated. Some call that a mutual relationship. I call it community, friendship, and love in action.

I've always been a huge fan of holidays. Anything that brings people together in a positive way is a great thing in my book. Halloween has always held a special place in my heart because it's a time for fun, imagination, and letting our inner child come out to play. But watching a community come together reminds me that the real magic isn't in the decorations or the costumes. It's in the people who take the time to make somebody else's day a little brighter.

As we head into the holiday season, all of us can give back to our communities. Giving doesn't always mean opening our wallets. Sometimes it's lending a hand, sharing a meal, offering encouragement, or simply being there when someone needs us. And don't forget what can be the best gift of all: forgiveness. Sometimes a kind word, understanding, and forgiveness can be more meaningful and memorable than any gift in a box ever could.

So, here's to the Henderson family, to their years of generosity, and to all the wonderful people who make Freehold and our surrounding communities such special places to call home. Let's keep showing up for one another, helping when we can, forgiving when we're able, and remembering that the good we put into this world can inspire others to do the same.

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I'm your Bro, LJ James, and I'll see you Around the Mountain! Follow me on Facebook at Facebook.com/LJJamesTheBikerDJ.

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