Horror Movie or Disney Picture?

When I was growing up Halloween was October 31st. It did not matter if it fell on a Friday night, allowing the late-night prowlers to sleep-in or on a Sunday night before a harsh Monday morning of school.

Somewhere along the line, some towns decided that it was unnecessary to celebrate the holiday on the 31st. I had heard rumors of such a thing, but it was only as I drove home on Monday (later than usual because a traffic accident forced a detour) that I realized that my town was one of the culprits. So there I sat, October 30th, with medieval costumes in hand for my two munchkins, having missed trick or treating in my neighborhood.

The quest began. Calling friends, checking local newspapers on the web in a desperate attempt to salvage the holiday for my kids (well, truth be told it was really for me – I don’t give them the candy, I just wanted the photo ops). Much to my dismay, my holy grail of trick or treating ended up in the ex-husband’s neighborhood.

My first Halloween as a single mom and I was faced with the horror of Halloween’s past – with one catch. I summon up the best positive attitude I could muster for the sake of my kids and go to HIS HOUSE. I walk in and continue to try to focus on how much it might mean for him to be a part ofthis kid-oriented holiday and how, down the road, my little ones mayappreciate that I tried to include their father. Unfortunately, lurking in a dark corner of his living room was one of his ex-girlfriends and her daughter.

I stifled the scream, shot a murderous look at my ex and assured myself that I would survive “The Attack of the Ex’s Ex-Girlfriend.” Fortunately, I had arrived armed – with self esteem – looking pretty damn good in the costume I had worn to work that day. I kept my best plastic smile on my face as the entire Ex group ventured out trick or treating, and focused on enjoying the amazement in my children’s eyes as they saw an array of costumes on the masses walking the neighborhood…the surprise as they realized that they were getting candy from strangers – and all they had to do was dress up and say a few words.

Looking back, all that is important is that my kids experienced the wonder of Halloween. They did not care who they had to share the holiday with (the more, the merrier, I think). They were happy just to be doing something new and exciting.

My horror movie was their Disney picture. Thank goodness I have them to remind me of what is important.

Kathy+2
Real Working Mom Guest Blogger