Our Halloween plan was set early – a sleepover at my friend’s place in Newlands. Her daughter, a little older than Kaydes, has always been a favourite playmate of hers. The idea of them trick-or-treating together made the night feel extra special. 🥰
Kaydes, already captivated by Wednesday’s spooky charm, had her heart set on dressing up as Wednesday. Naturally, I couldn’t resist joining her as Morticia. That morning, we hit the op-shops, combing through racks of black dresses and mysterious accessories. Rummaging for hidden treasures and assembling our costumes on the spot was an absolute thrill. There’s nothing like a last-minute scramble to capture the Halloween spirit! Though I couldn’t find a Wednesday wig, I improvised with one I could braid.
Back at home, we dove into our transformations. Kaydes was thrilled with her black blazer, tie, and her braided wig. But there was one more Wednesday trait to master: the iconic pout. So, I taught her how to swap her usual beaming smile for a sombre, serious look. Watching her practice not smiling, then nailing that deadpan Wednesday pout, was hilarious and made the whole experience even more special.
My own transformation into Morticia – with long, dark hair cascading over my all-black outfit – made me feel like a gothic icon. Together, we were the Addams Family duo, ready for the afternoon ahead.
When it was finally time, we met up with my friend and then went to her place. We jumped into Halloween prep, setting up a few decorations and getting ready to greet the first trick-or-treaters. As the kids started arriving, excitement swept through the house like a wave, sparking that classic Halloween energy. Friends soon joined with their little ones, each in costume, and we set off as a group to hit the street.
Trick or Treat!
The kids went eagerly from house to house, their bags filling quickly with sweets. Some homes really went all out, transforming their fronts into eerie displays. Kaydes was mesmerised, wide-eyed with wonder as she took it all in. She’d rush up to each door, holding out her little pumpkin bowl, and give her best albeit slightly shy “trick-or-treat”. Seeing her in those moments felt like watching my own childhood Halloween replay in front of me. 🎃
Back at my friend’s house, Kaydes took on a new role as candy distributor, holding the bowl with excitement and anticipation. Her face would light up each time trick-or-treaters came down the driveway, squealing, “People are coming! People are coming!”. She’d run to greet them, candy at the ready, her enthusiasm filling up the room with joy.
As I watched her delight, I was transported back to my childhood Halloweens in Pinehaven – dressed as a fairy, mind you – going door-to-door and feeling like I was part of something magical. Halloween traditions may have evolved over the years, but seeing it all through Kaydes’ eyes made it feel timeless. Watching her embrace Halloween with her own mix of joy, wonder, and that well-practised Wednesday pout felt like a reminder that the magic lives on, beautifully unchanged yet somehow even sweeter in this new chapter. ✨
Lore & Tempo is where motherhood meets adventure. I’m Ren – storyteller, explorer, and single mum in Wellington, New Zealand. I’ve been lucky enough to wander through 45 countries. 15 of them with my +1, Kaydes, either strapped to my front, on my hip, or running ahead on her own adventures. I created this space to share single parent life, travel tips, and the joy of exploring the world.
