But there were parts of the trick or treating experience that I guess I blocked out from last year or didn't tune into, that were heavy on the trick side of things, at least from my perspective.
I forgot how hard it is to navigate the stairs, porches, and crowds of people. I realized that trying to keep up with friends is not in the cards for us. I saw that as Hannah gets older, having to be assisted up the stairs to get her treat is not something she's going to be that psyched about, so what do we do then? Last night she said several times, "I want to do it myself, Mommy," and then, "I wish everyone had ramps so I could do it all by myself." It was a long night of walking, and lots of times Hannah had to be carried, piggy-backed or put in the stroller with Sam because she couldn't keep up.
If you were to ask Hannah if she had fun, she would give you an unequivocal "yes." No doubt about it. But do these little frustrations start to chip away at that tremendous sense of self? I don't know. I hope not, but it's definitely chipping away at mine.
We did think of a new plan for next year, that will make it maybe a little bit easier. First, we'll go on our own and see friends as we go, but not worry about keeping up with anyone else. Second, we'll scope out a good route in advance, one that has a large concentration of houses in a small area, and maybe even some where there are not so many stairs to climb. Third, I might even put out a plea somehow to ask folks to bring the candy down to the bottom step if possible, at least in the early evening when the little ones are out. It's hard for a lot of kids to climb up and get their treat, maybe this would make it easier for everyone else?
The last one is a little more challenging, we'll see if I follow through on that. I realize I can't go around changing every holiday so it's more user-friendly for Hannah. But as her mama, I do want to try to level the playing field whenever I can.
Anyway, I always like having "a plan," so that makes me feel a little better. But that million dollar smile, that helps a whole lot also.
2 comments:
Hi I have been following your blog for a while and have commented from time to time. I have a similar kid set as you. Our 4 year old son is slated to get sdr surgery in the spring. Wondered if you'd be willing to talk to me more about it on the phone? I live in California. Thanks And here is my personal email. Kbecker at gmail dot com.
I have an idea....we went trick or treating in a little neighborhood that Parker is in the same class as a few of the kids and what one mom started a few years ago was a street parade and the houses that were handing out candy came to the bottom of the driveway, and I thought what a great idea No walking up driveways or No stairs. This was a huge success for us...we will do it again next year.
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