Fighting an Urge

Friday I got my first teacher paycheck of the year.

I didn't celebrate by going to the bar and getting wasted. Those days are behind me now.

Instead, I went to the thrift store.

There's an absolutely awesome thrift store near my school. What a great place to unwind! Plus, there are bargains galore. I found a pair of Lenox crystal candle holders that rock the block!

Alas, there was a down side to the thrift store on Friday. The place was loaded to the plimsol line with Halloween decorations.

Have you noticed that people are starting to decorate the exteriors of their homes for Halloween in extravagant ways? Maybe this is a phenomenon unique to New Jersey. But I doubt it. When there's money to be made, manufacturers will follow any trend.

In my mind I see my front yard (which isn't very big) as Halloween Central. Orange and purple lights, giant jack-o-lanterns, bats, ghosts, strobe lights, appropriate noises, and (this is my all-time wish) a fog machine. In my dreams, tourists drive by my house to see my Halloween display.

Alas, the budget does not permit me to entertain the idea.

Already there are several crazy Halloween houses all set up here in Snobville. I've never been jealous of lavish Xmas displays, but the Halloween ones ........ want it!

I'll have to see what I can accomplish on a shoe string. Good ideas are welcome.