October!

Hello, everyone! The month of ghosts and goblins is here. Pretty soon, the haunted houses will open up, and adults will get to act like kids again…at least for a night or two.

I am a little embarrassed to admit that I have only been to one Halloween party where a costume was required. That was years and years ago! I was in my twenties. It was one of those really big parties where everyone went all-out. The costumes were amazing! I was stuck for an idea, so I chose to go as a Lady of the Night. I had my hair all ratted up, with rhinestones dispersed throughout. I went to Goodwill and bought the sexiest dress I could find. I poured on the makeup and perfume. I wore very high heels and had a blast! A very funny, great memory.

When my daughter, Carissa, was ready for her first trick-or-treat adventure, I wanted to make her costume memorable. Back then, I did some sewing. I chose a pumpkin for the pattern. It had orange felt with green piping and green felt for the hat. I messed up on the first go-round and had to start all over. It eventually turned out terrific, if I do say so myself. Carissa was only about three years old, so I’m guessing she has no recollection of it all. But we have pictures!

When my granddaughter Savannah came around…20 years ago!…we always made it a point to have her trick-or-treat at our house. McKenna followed. She is now 14 and celebrates Halloween the way that most 14-year-olds do—spending time with friends.

This year, Manny and I are going to see if we can decorate our house for the neighbor kids. When I moved into our home over 27 years ago, there weren’t any children in the neighborhood. That has really changed over the past five years or so. It’s pretty cool. We see kids riding bikes, shooting baskets, walking dogs. The whole vibe is great. There are a couple of young children across the street from us, and they have become attached to Manny. We head outside and we hear, “Manny, Manny, Manny!” It’s so much fun. Their dog loves him, as well. Maybe it’s because Manny always has a Milk-Bone or two in his pocket? 

Life is very good. I was telling Manny the other day that autumn is my favorite time of year now. It used to be summer, but these days I relish the cool breeze, the low humidity…Colorado weather!

Have a great October. Happy Halloween to everyone! Make sure your superhero or ghost is safe! We’ll connect next month.