Halloween

I was never a real Halloween lover until I had kids, and now I’m completely won over. I’m still getting the hang of it though. The house is still only partly decorated, and we’ve never carved a pumpkin. I’ve saved magazines to get great ideas for the holiday but they collect dust instead.

Last night we watched all the neighborhood kids dress up. Their sweet faces and adorable costumes were delightful. It took me back to when I watched my oldest discover this unique evening. She looked at me as if to say: “Okay let me get this straight. I dress up in whatever fantasy character I want? I go out at night instead of the usual dinner, bath, bed. I go to people’s houses and strangers give us candy… for free. And then I go home…and get to eat it”.

Once she was sure this was supposed to happen, she trotted off and has been a fan ever since. The baby is still a little wary and wore a confused look the entire evening. No kidding, he didn’t smile once. He kept crinkling his eyes as he analyzed everyone. He wouldn’t even hold his bag. I remember when my nephew was young he would try to put his candy back into the bowls that were offered out to him!

With my oldest daughter’s birthday near Halloween, we have gotten into the swing of things. I have gradually collected paraphernalia and every year Halloween gets better. I really love it. It’s a deliciously sweet way for the kids to have some fun. Next year we’ll try pumpkin carving. I’m inspired to create one like my friend’s “Boo” pumpkin.

Sheila Cason, MD