In 1990, Halloween’s enchanting spell 
Cast its magic over our Southern community
Like a sweet-smelling mist that fills the air, 
and makes your heart beat fast with pure delight.

My sister dresses as a black cat, no surprise,
While I take on the role of Madonna, The Material Girl, herself 
My golden hair in waves, lacy black gloves in place
I dance in front of the mirror, perfecting my vogue.

Our faces radiant with anticipation’s grace, 
As we venture out into the night’s embrace.
The Sherrods’ house, famous for their decorations, is better each year
With headstones and cackling witches that loom tall. 

Fog slithers like a ghostly hand throughout the yard 
And Freddy Krueger’s knives cast shadows on the wall.
We run through the yard, our giggles clear, 
To homes with jack-o’-lanterns burning bright.

Children’s laughter fills the crisp autumn air, 
as parents teach us to be polite, with Southern Charm
Thank You’s, Yes Ma’ams’, and No sirs’ 
echo on spider-webbed covered porches

Further on, by the hospital stands the rich part of town, 
where fat flicking lanterns line paths to tall, white houses 
always armed with the best goodies, 
but some pull, the worst kind of tricks, toothbrushes

The journey back home fills us with anticipation, 
dying to start unwrapping the melt-in-your-mouth Snickers, 
A command from Mama to wait, 
until she can make a thorough inspection.

Afterward, we lay out our treasures, oh-so-sweet, 
My sister and I, negotiating treats,
then Grandma scoops the rest into a bowl, 
a delightful Halloween memory, one deserving to be retold.