Surprise! I really do like Halloween

It came as a surprise to me when I found myself standing in my kitchen several nights this week slowly and methodically carving pumpkins.  It was calming, zen-like work and I was getting excited to put them outside and entertain and amuse my neighbors. This, from someone who just one year ago confessed to hating Halloween. 

If we all had a dime for each time we've heard someone else talk about how becoming a parent really changes you, we'd all be richer than Bill Gates.  This time though, it's me and I'm still in shock.  I grew up living in a rather rural area and never had the suburban trick-or-treating experience, plus I'm just not that taken with the spooky, scary bit.  Until now. 

Noah is only 22 months old and he doesn't really understand the concept of any holiday celebration quite yet, but he is old enough to enjoy a little happiness and laughter among the adults.  We've already taken him to Boo at the Zoo, during which, he wore his costume the entire time and tolerated the experience about as well as could be expected.

I'm excited to see him wear a costume on Halloween. I like seeing his friends and all the neighborhood kids having fun.  And, most of all, my neighbor taught me how to really carve a pumpkin, and if I do say so myself, I think the student is better than the teacher.   I spent three nights this week cleaning and carving pumpkins growing more and more proud with each design.  Sure, I used templates and carving tools, but I have the best looking jack-o-lanterns on the block! 

I suppose it is true that when you have kids you lose a little bit of cynicism and begin to see the world through their eyes and once again you get to experience the world in a calmer, slower and ... funner way. 

This is an original post to DC Metro Moms.

Stacy Kravitz blogs as The Fabulous Miss S.