Halloween: The FINAL Chapter

There are times when one must admit that one is a pushover. This is one of those times.

I couldn't help myself. I gave in to Tanner's desire to be a gangster. What can I say? I loved the idea, and really wanted to see him all suited up. In my defense, I was a Thrifty Pushover. I did not buy the $40 Halloween costume.

Instead, I had a flash of pure brilliance. I'm not sure why it didn't flash before the afternoon of Halloween, but we can't be choosy about when these things happen. I decided to hit the Burlington Outlet which is right by my house. It's merchandise is very um, gangster-ish, and also very cheap. Perfect, right? With hopeful son in tow, we gave the costume one last shot.

And sure enough, there was an entire row of 3-piece suits for boys. Cheap. I couldn't have been happier.  Armani, Jr. was beside himself - critiquing color combos and matching faux silk clip-on ties with low thread count dress shirts.

Usually, any encounter with a fitting room is cause for considerable angst. This time, Tanner led the way, prancing toward the fitting room with an armful of potential gangster costumes, pausing just for a second to peruse the hat rack he passed by.

After trying on 3 or 4 suits, he settled on one. I checked the price tag. $20 for the shirt, tie, pants and vest!! I feel like sending Burlington a Thank You card.

I think Tanner would've worn the suit out of the store if I'd let him. He couldn't stop looking at himself in the mirror. As we walked out, he gave me a huge hug and said "You're the best, Mom!" Uh huh...now I am! From there we headed to the costume shop to get a $5 Fedora, and he was all set for $25. I was in Thrifty, Brilliant, MOTY heaven. It's a lovely place.

Later, as he was primping (and I do mean primping) for the night, he said:
"Ya know, if you and Jason get married soon, I could just wear this suit. I mean without the hat. Or...maybe with the hat. Who knows?" Um, NO. But he did look good.