Trick or Treat

This was the first year we actually took Ryan trick or treating. Unfortunately, last year he got pretty sick the day of Halloween and his first year he was so just little so we didn't even bother. My friend, Jennifer, had told me about what our neighborhood does for the kids and it sounded perfect for Ryan. Wes had class that evening, but luckily the grandparents were able to join in on the fun and help keep up with the crazy man. He actually wore the same costume that I bought him for last year because it was so big last year and he never ended up wearing it. It BARELY fit this year, but he didn't seem to mind.

With all of the remodeling and little trips here and there, we weren't able to do a whole lot of festive Halloween things this year, but after having his MDO party and getting to go see pumpkins everywhere, I started talking up Halloween, trick-or-treating, costumes, etc. the days leading up to it. It didn't take long at all for him to realize what he would be wearing and what that would actually get him if he said Trick or Treat to the neighbors. So, he seemed pretty on board when I had him put his costume on Wednesday. We took some pics before heading out since I knew once we got started, it would be next to impossible.

Our neighborhood puts together a little parade by blocking off a few streets where the neighbors all sit at the foot of their driveway and hand out candy. At the end of the parade, they set-up an outdoor movie with snacks (we didn't make it that long, but I imagine it will be much more fun for Ryan in the coming years). We met up with our friends Jennifer, Elijah, and her family to walk around together. At the very first house, Ryan clung to my leg and cried. That lasted for about 30 seconds until he realized he did in fact get real candy and then he was good to go. He was very well mannered and said "Happy Halloween" and "Thank you" to everyone. Sometimes he took more than his share and we even visited a few houses more than once, but he is still talking about how much fun he had "treating," even today. He lasted a full hour, which was definitely enough for this mommy.

 

We needed the occasional break.

 Ryan and his buddy, Elijah. This was the best I could get of them both looking in the same direction.

When we got home, he wanted to sort through all of his loot. His favorites, of course, were all of the lollipops. They have been a great resource for our recent potty training adventure that we started unexpectedly. More to come on that later.

We let him have a few pieces after dinner and I think with all of the excitement, he ended up tossing and turning in bed until 10:20!!! Oh well, at least we know he had fun!