My Induction to Halloween

 

The first Halloween I remember was 1955 when I was in first grade.

My mother summoned up all her creative energy and created a costume she was proud to send out into the world! An exemplary example of her ability to make do and make great!

She took the long heavy cushions off of the back of our birch daybed and turned them into hot dog buns, complete with mustard and ketchup. Each one had a strap that was supposed to make wearing them possible.

She dyed my one piece long johns bright red and bought a very large official vinyl Goofy mask for me to wear from Mummert's Drug Store.

I was a hot dog!

It was an experience in blind faith as I was tugged along by my teacher's hand. Upstairs and downstairs, across the playground and down long halls. 

With the stalwart faith of a steadfast five year old, I allowed myself to be pulled into this new experience.

And I was hot!

All I could see was the pool of sweat collecting in the nose of the mask before me as I lugged those heavy buns along, sometimes hanging from my arms, sometimes dragging them on the ground. 

It was one of the longest walks I can ever remember taking and I saw nothing the whole time except the inside of my own mask filling up with sweat.

I was so proud!