My *Brave* Doctor

Her nametag says, "Dr. Samantha."  Her hair screams Dr. Merida.  Uh...or Carrot Top.  Take your pick...  She could have been an ordinary doctor, but what else is there to do with a Disney movie princess wig gathering dust in the closet?

In the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy, the sun finally made its appearance yesterday, blinding us after a long run of dreary, grey darkness.  The evening was cool, the air was still, and conditions were perfect for the hoards of stir-crazy children anxious to get out after 4 days off school and one shortened day back. 

Lastnight had to be the most fun Halloween yet for us.  Each year it gets better and better, from the very first, not quite 2 months into my pregnancy, when I walked down the street wiping tears from my eyes at the overwhelming thought of finally having a little one to share such joyous, traditional childhood events with, to now, when Samantha's unbridled excitement betrayed her growing maturity.

Her growth over the years has been evident, initially hesitant at walking through the neighborhood adding candy to the basket Mommy and Daddy would ultimately inhale themselves, finally loving the whole concept of Halloween, striding confidently from door to door, thanking the homeowners for their generosity, then taking her own station on our front steps, bowl of chocolate miniatures in-hand, doling out 2 to each costumed visitor and wishing them a Happy Halloween.

This morning the children at school were buzzing, a vibration in the air of excess energy, mighty suspicious of an early-morning candy high.  I pity the teachers that will be forced to deal with the aftermath as each head begins to droop, like spring flowers wilting in the heat of summer.