Halloween as a family tradition

Halloween is an annual celebration that involves considerable preparation, including choosing costumes, buying candy, and decorating homes. The author, a 47-year-old mother, takes part in the event with her children, even though she doesn’t need a costume to appear frightening.

Logistical challenges of Halloween

The event has become a complex task, requiring original and comfortable costumes that arrive before October 31. Candy must be purchased in large quantities to satisfy the neighborhood children, her own children, and for personal consumption. Decorating the house includes covering the entrance with fake spider webs, even though the children were previously warned to keep the living room tidy.

The experience on Halloween night

The big night involves the author accompanying her children in the street, pretending to be scared in front of them. She acknowledges the irony of appearing terrified while her children are excited about the holiday.

Aftermath and reflection

The aftermath includes sorting through the candy, negotiating quantities, and explaining that it’s not ideal to open candy packages at 11 p.m. The author reflects on the real horror of motherhood, comparing it to Halloween monsters like the vampire who drains her energy and the zombie who walks through the living room with a phone.

Looking ahead and the true Halloween

The author plans to continue participating in Halloween, buying candy, admiring costumes, and making silly noises to please her children. She acknowledges that one day her children will be too old for Halloween and will have other evenings and friends. She concludes that the real Halloween is not October 31, but when a parent looks in the mirror after a poor night’s sleep, realizing they scare everyone without needing a costume.