Halloween is just around the corner. The crisp fall breeze and shorter days tell me it’s time to find costumes for me and the kiddo. My husband hasn’t dressed in a costume since high school. Forcing him to would be worse than asking him to give up his Fantasy Football league.

There is no such thing as a cheap “ready to wear” costume these days. I remember some of my friends at grade school showing up with their plastic masks and matching pullover tie back shirts, known to be the cheapest of all costumes. I was very proud that my mom logged in hours of designing, shopping, sewing and adding those finishing touches to my unique costume choices.

At least a handful of Halloween Supercenters have sprouted up around my house and there’s nothing inexpensive about them. I always tell people once Halloween hits, it will be New Year’s Eve in no time. From now until the New Year begins, we will be faced with many shopping opportunities. At times these opportunities seem more like obligations. First its Halloween costumes and trick or treat candy, then Thanksgiving fixings, and on to Christmas, Hanukkah, or other such festive gift giving.

I’ll try not to worry about expenses this holiday season. Instead I’ll focus on the fun activities, social gatherings, and creative ways I can display my holiday spirit.

We’re planning on attending a Halloween party this year which jolted my memory about one of my favorite holiday shows of yesteryear.

Mad Monster Party was produced by Arthur Rankin, Jr., and directed by Jules Bass, the same duo that brought us holiday stop-motion favorites like Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer, and Frosty the Snowman.

Anyone else remember this holiday special featuring the voices of legendary Boris Karloff, and Phyllis Diller?

Find out more about Betsy Ross at betsyrosshouse.org