Halloween - the run-up

As you're probably aware, Halloween in the States is a big thing. Even for people who don't have kids, they either decorate their houses, send cards or go to a party with a laundry basket round their waist and "washing" dripping over the sides of it. If you have kids, it's all about them and gives you a great excuse not to dress up. OK last year I wore a bright orange silk scarf for a few days just to show willing.

As usual, we've had the "costume" decision-making, which went around the galaxy and back with the Little Guy unable to decide between one of the Darths and that guy from Toy Story. I was having a bit of a panic about being able to make one of these, when he announced that he wanted to "buy it this time". I was about to be mortally offended, but I got over that in about three seconds and whisked him off to buy a marvellously nylon Bobba Fett or somebody. OK he's done.

Mr. Minimal, being a cool teenager these days, decided against a real costume but is going to wander round in a black cape. Hmmm. He then went out and bought himself a plain white face mask and is going to paint an expression on it. Another hmmm. I just hope he remembers they won't let them wear face masks in school - in case they fall down the stairs or something. And let's face it, they have a point. If he falls down the stairs, he'll take out about 6 first graders with him.

Queenager wants to be Tinkerbell. "Ah - here's something I can make", I thought. No pattern, but enough sewing nowse to attempt it. (What's that they say? "A little knowledge is a dangerous thing"?) Bought two yards of some bright green sparkly material and thought. And thought.

First "debate" was "youre not wearing a strapless mini-dress with petals on, to school". Then I remembered all those strapless gowns I made in the 80's,, with the requisite boning. I have one day to make this thing and boning takes about three weeks. Besides, see above re the strapless dress. I found a dress in her closet which fits her, and attempted to do that thing where you replicate each piece and then sew them back together. Too complicated. Have ended up making a bodice out of two pieces and pinning it on to her. She seems quite pleased so far. Trouble is, she's at school all day today and out tonight, and the school Halloween parade is tomorrow. I'll have to turn into one of those gifted seamstresses and make the dress without her. Or hope someone doesn't look too closely at the construction.

Meanwhile, the Little Guy couldn't wait for the real Halloween to come around so has gone to school looking like a piece of mouldy cheese today:


Bless!

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