As Halloween approaches, and our sidewalks begin to fill with the faces of goblins, superheroes and witches, I wanted to offer some Halloween tips to make it a safe, enjoyable evening for everyone.
First, if you are taking your little one trick or treating make it your cardio workout. And by that, I do not mean drag the child running through the street! I mean as you walk, concentrate on keeping your abs in, butt firm, back straight and shoulders back. Take the time to breathe in the Fall air. (for those in you in New England anyways) There really is nothing like Autumn in New England. Feel the crackle of the leaves beneath your feet, and breathe in the distant wood stove filling the air with the scent of Fall. Evenings like this don’t last forever. Make this one worthwhile. Don’t rush, or worry about things, or be distracted. Concentrate only on the time you have and the moment you are in…..
Second, if you don’t have little ones, or you are not the designated trick or treat-or, make passing out candy fun. It is not a chore, it is FUN! Make sure your porch light is on and bright. You will be part of each and every child’s memory that visits you. Do you remember the fun neighbors that made you laugh, or scared you silly? Or the ones that didn’t bother, and handed out candy more out of obligation than anything else. Be in this moment. Remember back to your own childhood and how you waited each year to pick out that special custom. And how it was so special and the night was almost magical. Make it special and magical for the little guests you will have. Chances are for many of them, it will be the last year they be out, for they too are getting older…and soon they will be the ones passing out candy.
Thirdly, after all is said and done, and you have tricked, treated and passed out candy with the enthusiasm it deserves, and all the candy has been checked…take inventory of what you need and do not need. Allow your children to pick out the candy they want and then allow them to donate the rest to a children’s center, a food shelter, a woman’s shelter, a senior center, or anyone who may not have had the opportunity to enjoy Halloween the way they did. The possibilities are endless. I’m sure there may be even an elderly neighbor who may appreciate a little extra treat.
Most importantly, don’t forget the spirit of the season. It is a time to bond with children, reminisce about our own childhoods, give for the sake of giving and accept with a smile! Remember the small faces under those masks were once you and I, and they will remember the extra smile you may give. Don’t deny them, or yourself the fun of the evening….it only does come once a year!
I hope you all have a happy and safe Halloween!
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