Too Much of a Good Thing = Exhaustion

When I was still teaching I grew to dread Halloween as I got older. Don't get me wrong, I participated in dressing up and got into all the hull-a-ba-loo with all the kids on that "day" of all days. In my early years of teaching it would be an all day event, but later in my career it was cut down somewhat. Two hours at the most at the end of the school day. No matter, because the kids were hyper and excited the minute they walked into the classroom door. Crowd control was the number one goal of the day.  Visitors dressed as zombies, rock stars, etc. would come by offering free tickets to Halloween carnivals and that would add to the choas. When party time arrived I remember parents arriving in costume to serve treats and play games with all my little spooks and goblins. Kids throwing up from too many sweets was par for the course.  I remember being pregnant and holding a bag for a little girl to throw up in and she and I both ended up in the bathroom spilling our guts. Not a pretty sight.

The last year I taught I remember after each holiday party thinking that was my last. Last Halloween party, Christmas, Valentine and end of year party. The following year I would smirk with glee thinking of all my co-workers having to endure those  party days and I was FREE! I didn't have to endure another Halloween party again. I know I sound like an old fuddy duddy but you have no idea the stress party days put on teachers.

Now I've said all this to let you know that again I have lost my mind and have subjected myself to the same stressful, hectic and exhaustion of having a Halloween party every year. For my grandchildren!  I'm afraid it has become an annual event at Nana and Papa's. Papa fixes the food and I decorate and plan games. Saturday was the big event and everyone came in costume.

The Hubs and I.

Nana and some of her spooks.

It's not easy getting the spooks to sit still for a picture.

Hot dogs and chili were on the menu.

Tons of games all directed by Nana.

One little spook acting silly.

My attempt at a Halloween cake.

For some odd reason I didn't get any picture of the dressed up adults. I guess it was because I was so busy with entertaining everyone. I know my daughter-in-loves took pictures, so I will have to get some from them.  By the time everyone left I was exhausted and so glad I didn't have to go through this again until next year. You may be thinking why does she put herself through all this if it is so stressful and tiring. If you are a grandparent then you know the answer. If not, then let me put it this way. They love it and look forward to it all year. You will do anything and endure anything for your grandchildren. So there you have it. One thing I have learned in life is never say never!

Hope you have a fun Halloween.

Christine