Why I Love Halloween: A Personal Tale
Halloween has a special place in my heart, woven intricately with the fabric of family traditions and fall charm. The vibrant hues of the changing leaves set the perfect backdrop for all the festivities. This year, the excitement is palpable as my twins are turning 16, and we're gearing up for not one but two sweet sixteen parties—one formal for my daughter and a house party for my son.
As a parent, the months leading up to these milestone celebrations have been a flurry of planning and dreaming. I can hardly believe it's time for them to take their permit tests! My daughter is even eyeing her first car. It makes me nostalgic to think of those days when they were little, relying on me for everything. Now, I fill the roles of ATM, maid, and Uber driver. Yet, there's laughter in the chaos; they've developed their language, affectionately calling me "Bro," which can get quite the rise out of their dad!
Through it all, Halloween has been a constant. There has yet to be a year when they haven't dressed up, often planning their costumes over the summer months. Our family has embraced a couple-themed costume tradition for the last few years, which makes it even more Fun. This year, we've chosen to be characters from Outlander, while the kids have opted for a cop and inmate duo, along with my son as a new-age superhero from a popular Netflix series.
Some may frown at Halloween, focusing on its negativity, but I believe in viewing it differently. Here are five reasons why you should embrace Halloween, have fun with your kids, and don some costumes yourself:
1. **Creativity Unleashed**: Halloween is a fantastic opportunity for everyone to express their creativity. Dressing up allows for a playful escape from reality. Get crafty with costumes that reflect your interests or even family themes!
2. **Quality Family Time**: Planning costumes, decorating, or going trick-or-treating together creates bonding moments. It's a time to laugh and enjoy each other's company, deepening those family ties.
3. **Nostalgia and Tradition**: Just as I cherish the memories of Halloween with my kids as toddlers, creating new traditions fosters a sense of belonging and shared history that's richly rewarding.
4. ** Community Engagement **: Halloween brings neighborhoods together. Whether attending local events or simply gathering candy on your block, it allows for social interaction that strengthens community ties.
5. **Have Fun**: At its core, Halloween is about enjoyment. Forget the stigma and let go of solemn judgments. Embrace the spirit of fun, laughter, and sweet indulgence. It's a chance to celebrate life and enjoy the moment.
So this Halloween, I invite you to dust off that costume, join in the festivities, and revel in the joyful chaos that makes this time of year so magical! Send me your pics at Stacin@MacaroniKid.com or post on my Facebook page.
I will share in next week's newsletter.
