Small town Halloween

by denny bastian 2012

“You can’t go out until it gets dark,” Mum says emphatically.

“and it’s cold so you better wear your warm coat tonight.”

The excitement is almost too much; I surely will pee myself.

Pirate costume pulled over heavy coat, cold air nipping ears,

long country blocks lit by streetlamps far apart casting eerie glow

on narrow asphalt street.  I would be afraid of the dark

and scary night but I fear nothing for Mom trails close behind.

Scuffling through fall leaves in every yard to lamp lit door.

pillow case for booty thrust forward with a “trick or treat.”

Large faces of neighbours bending over to smile and greet

“What a scary pirate you are.  Aren’t you so sweet?

Here is something special just for you.”  A casual toss of candy,

my quick glance in the sack to see what it was. “Thank you,” I say

and on to the next almost on the dead run. “hurry up Mum!”

Chewies, hard candy, and gum, Tootsie Rolls,

 little bags of black or red liquorice, and caramel apples.

 Eyes the size of saucers in eager anticipation of a full sack.

A stomach that does not suspect the upset it will face.

Oh but there is the one that makes my little heart thump,

 my hands shake, and my greedy mouth waters, CARAMEL POPCORN BALLS!

“Mum, can we go home now?  I think I’m going to pee myself!”