As you push past the erupting Christmas decorations to shop for a Styrofoam pumpkin, are you enjoying the cooler temps and fall foliage? It is always my favorite time of year, kicking through the multi-colored leaves, enjoying the vibrant mums and the children’s excitement.

What was your favorite costume? Somewhere in an attic is there a cape, wonder woman bracelets or cowboy hat? Long before costumes for purchase, it was fun to cobble together with elaborate creativity an outfit to change your identity. I loved anything with makeup but actually won a contest at age 5 for the “crying bride”. There is a picture of me wailing on the ground in a beautiful veil and dress my talented seamstress mother made, but I was so shy and terrified that I sat down and wouldn’t move. Hmmm, I didn’t understand the irony.

Recognizing the character costumes today is a challenge, but what hasn’t changed are the the precious smiles on the trick or treaters’ faces. I fuss and exclaim how great they look and watch even the shy ones beam. Its a time we get to be face to face with many youngsters and if we allow, the masquerade can be a treat for us too.

For just one day, enjoy the frivolity. Carve and light a pumpkin. Maybe dress up yourself- I know your little dog already has an outfit. If there isn’t trick or treat where you live, consider volunteering at a school that has a party- always needed. You can really get out of your own head and drama when an entire town or neighborhood is being frivolous. Giggle, you owe yourself an opportunity for fantasy. Play a little- answer the door in a sheet, get a mask, take part. Whatever else the scariness is in your life right now, please do not let another holiday go by without joining in 100%. Remember a time when you too believed you could be anything- you still can. The cape is waiting.