An Awe Moment

My favorite trick-or-treat moment this year.

If you read my post yesterday, you know I dressed as the Grim Reaper on Monday.

While I was handing out candy, I had a lovely encounter with an adorable little boy.  He was trick-or-treating with his dad and I watched how his dad halted at the end of the drive to let the little boy make his way to my door for candy by himself.  One of those poignant moments in live. 

It was still early yet.  More twilight than dark, when this towheaded young man came racing up my walk.  I had positioned myself in a chair between two Halloween Trees, waiting for unsuspecting youths to do exactly that. 

As I raised my head and he saw my make-up he skid to a sudden halt.  "Who're you supposed to be" he demanded?   In the background I caught his father grin and shake his head, clearly proud.

I didn't have to smile as it was painted on, but I couldn't help myself.  His voice was one part terror, three parts morbid curiosity.  In as deep a voice I could muster I announced, "I'm the Grim Reaper!"

Cocking his head to the side, clearly not frightened he demanded, "What's the Grim Reaper?"

Thinking quickly I responded, "I eat little boys."

Straightening up suddenly, but not willing to rush off without his candy, he pushed his bag forward and squeaked, "Trick-or-treat."

After dropping a few pieces in his bag he turned and raced down the drive to his dad.  As they walked down the street I heard him ask in an excited voice, "Dad!  Did you see, that was the Grim Reaper?"

I watched as his father put a hand to his sons head in that universal dad sign and say, "I did, son.  You were lucky to make it out alive."

Delighted, that moment carried me the rest of the evening.