Guess how many trick or treaters came to our front door on Halloween night, my all time favorite holiday?

ZERO.

That’s right. Not a single child. It’s not completely unexpected in this youth-challenged town of ours. Also, I’m told that there is a big Halloween party at the community center for those kids we do have, complete with fireworks. So somewhere, someplace Halloween is happening, including in my own memories of days gone by, and the delight I had in creating costumes for The Boys and sometimes me. Here I am as my favorite character – Vera (her story here) – with my entourage…

So what to do with the bag of treats? There’s always the yearly debate. Should I buy a bag of truly disgusting candy, something like candy corn, without any risk of pleasureful consumption of leftovers? Or give out apples to truly piss off any costumed wee folk who venture out (not serious)? Or say, what the heck, and let the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups fall where they may? Preferably somewhere near the taste buds. I’m thinking yes.

Today I am a year older. A little anti-climactic after last year’s (6ty) epic event. A friend asked me recently “So how does it feel being 60?” Reversing the usual sequence of response I answered what I DON’T care for first. I don’t like the physical – the eyes, the teeth, the random aches and twinges, the increased medical appointments and assorted specialists. Still, having said that, I go to private pilates classes twice a week, with progress showing me proof positive that I’m actually getting stronger and more flexible as time passes. I haven’t been sick in a very long time. Still standing and not dead yet. Works for me.

But most important – how do I really feel about 60(s)?  The answer is I’m happier than ever.

It’s November now and today is grey and windy. We’re halfway between equinox and solstice so we’re heading to the darkest and coldest months. No worries, I’m off to The Bunkie for a cozy day by the fireplace with my tunes (check out the Hugh Laurie album Didn’t It Rain), sorting photos from our recent road trip and pushing paint around on a canvas. And maybe even a Reese’s nibble. Happy BlissDay.