October 31, 2008

White Dog was all ready for Trick-or-Treaters: the candy was conveniently in a bowl by the door; the porch light glowed a warm welcome; and we had practiced what to expect. She sat in her window perch and watched for costumed Halloweeners. I had warned White Dog that the kids would not begin coming until after school but White Dog scanned the street in anticipation. By post-dinner time even I was glancing out when I passed the front. When the college kids next door started clogging up the street with friends' cars, very loud music and young people carrying cases of beer White Dog and I knew that we were now part of the Avoidance Zone--where parents with small cute children would not trick-or-treat. At ten, Steve turned out the light and took a disappointed White Dog for her walk. At the far end of the block they saw some groups of kids in costume but knew they would never knock on our door. We heard not a single "Trick or Treat!"