I Love This Creepy, Clever, Creative Time Of Year In Bismarck

I would say most people out here in Bismarck, and all of North Dakota, can't wait for the summer

The above opening comments are about as obvious as it gets - we all go through the cold winter months, weathering insane frigid temperatures, so when we all thaw out and are taking advantage of the warm sunny days, it's easy to forget about October, and the build-up to my favorite day of the year.

I grew up in San Diego, California, and I still remember all the fun that October 31st brings

Ahh, the time of year when sweaters are quite common. When huge bags of candy start showing up in stores all around you, and the leaves are turning yellow, and soon your once full, bustling tree will be grey and naked. I still remember the excitement of trying to put together a Halloween costume. Most of the time, my mom would create something really special from her sewing machine and brilliant imagination. I still remember going to work ( at a restaurant in San Diego ) on Halloween. I was a pink pig ( big pink belly, pig nose, and pink leotards ) - imagine having your order taken by a 5 foot eleven pink pig?

( SEE ALSO: "THE REAL FRIGHTS OF HALLOWEEN NIGHT IN BISMARCK AND MANDAN" )

A friend of mine has captured the feel of what my favorite day is all about 

I still remember walking home from school and seeing all the spooky decorations on each house on the block. A friend of mine sent me this picture she took at a Walmart in Bismarck:

As I got older, I carried on my own tradition of driving around and checking out all the creative Halloween front yard greetings

Once again, my friend shared her charming, clever, ghoulish frights

Have fun this Halloween! 

I still remember the wonderful memories I had with my mom and dad, and sister, and you'll never forget yours either, I promise you that.