Happy Halloween, Or Not

I must admit, All Hallows Eve is my least favorite holiday. Even as a kid I gave up trick or treating as soon as Mom let me—and then was tasked with opening the door to my candy-seeking neighbors, feeling like a stay-at-home loser each time I handed out a mini chocolate bar to one of my classmates. It’s not that I don’t enjoy donning other personas… I just prefer to do so on the page. (For one thing, there’s no need to actually dress up.)

In my adult neighborhood, the kids all gather downtown for an organized event, so we are able to skip the frenzy of candy-buying and costume-making. Occasionally I’ll catch a glimpse out my office window of a tiny goblin or ghost or kitty cat wandering up the road, and it brings a smile—especially if the costume is homemade. But mostly I remain happily oblivious to the festivities.

This year, Halloween does mark the end of a rather spectacular October; the warm days are growing shorter, and the clocks will soon push sunset (and sunrise) back an hour. This year, I’m looking forward to winter’s hunkering down: reading, jigsaw puzzles, soup making—and, of course, writing myself into new personas. 

What about you, any great Halloween memories from childhood? (Or were you also just not that into it?) Share your thoughts in the comments below—especially if you think I’m being too curmudgeonly. And thanks for reading!

6 Replies to “Happy Halloween, Or Not”

  1. Actually, Halloween is my favorite holiday. As a kid, I loved getting to wear a cool outfit I chose, go door to door and get free candy! I still have a sweet tooth. I live in the same neighborhood so I miss giving out candy and seeing the costumes. When my street had tick or treating, our house was a desirable stop because I bought the big candy bars. This year, we are going to a Halloween party for the second year in a row. I’ve been planning my outfit since last November 1st.

  2. One of my favorite memories is makingo monkey costumes for see no evil, speak no evil, and hear no evil.
    I love seeing the happy faces at my door.

  3. Love the monkey costume idea! And I’m sure you will get plenty of trick or treaters today/tonight so enjoy the happy faces.

  4. Diane, I think I was also a bunny rabbit as a toddler… but the repeat costume I remember was a devil. Complete with horns. So glad to grow out of that one! 🙂 Thx for sharing your memories.

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