It’s time to decorate pumpkins and gather costumes! Candy and popcorn balls are in the bowls, ready for distribution. My own boys loved giving out candy as much as they did trick-or-treating. My parent’s neighborhood was usually overcome with goblins. My guys always made it to one particular house that gave the big candy bars and a discussion on costumes. My memory goes back even further to my own trick-or-treating days. I remember being a ghost for one year with the white sheet, eyes, and mouth cut out. It was a rough job trying to manage not to trip over my sheet, not to mention the whole thing in my paper sack, leaving a trail of candy. I would hoard out my stash, hidden away from everyone. Years later, we always dressed up at work, anticipating our coworker’s children. Not only the little spooks dressing up boosted morale. I dressed as a scarecrow one year only to have the raffia I have for scarecrow hair get caught in the copy machine. I think my coworkers were traumatized by the squeal in the back room. One of my favorite costumes was the cute toot; yes, I said what I said! The best part of the day was when a four-year-old told me I was a “poopy lady!” I still giggle! My boys still talk about the year we were new to the community. My mom was driving them down 9th street when a man in a hooded coat was chasing the car with a primitive axe. She called me a bit unnerved. Of course, I called the police station. The policeman giggled and said oh, that’s just Bob. Bob was well known for his haunted yard and garage. My boys enjoyed the spooky attraction for many years after Mom and I got over our shakes. I still run into Bob occasionally, and those days are still vivid. The scarecrow will be showing up in Mrs. Hagar’s pre-k class in a few days. I’m sure there’s an adventure awaiting, smiles to share, and memories made. I’ll just stay away from the copy machine!
