There is something nostalgic about Halloween; it reminds me of being little and feeling thrilled to dress up, grab my pumpkin tote, and venture into the cold night with my best friend (and also neighbor) and our dads to trick-or-treat. In my childhood, I remember those nights being cold and appropriately eerie. Once, it even snowed, and living in the South, I was in awe of snowflakes falling down from the autumn sky. We would go door to door in our neighborhood, down one side of the street and back the other. Then we would walk home and I would spread out the pieces of candy I’d received and count them; the more Reese’s, the better.
Halloween weekend sets into motion the magic of the year’s end. The fall and changing leaves, the holidays and celebrations, and the traditions make October through December feel treasured and cozy – a time to be savored. This has not faded for me as an adult; I love the festivities just as much as I did as a child. Joy finds me when engaging in seasonal activities. This Halloween, I will light candles, watch a classic movie, and be on the other side of the door for trick-or-treating. Here are more ideas for making this weekend fun!
Festive Spooky Pancakes
A delicious themed breakfast can set the mood for a lovely day. Try making pumpkin pancakes – I enjoy Trader Joe’s gluten-free mix – and put a spooky spin on them. On mine I arranged dark chocolate chips to make two eyes and a mouth for a ghost! Place the chips on while the pancakes are warm, and they get melty and scrumptious.
A Fun TV Show
I don’t enjoy super scary movies, but a fun mystery with great characters is my kind of show. If you haven’t yet seen Only Murders in the Building, I highly encourage you to give it a try this weekend. It’s witty, charming, delightful, and so well-done!
An Easy Costume
I prefer to put my Halloween costumes together myself as opposed to buying an already-created set. I usually go for simple and comfortable pieces. Last week, I realized that I had never dressed up as any Harry Potter character even though I love the series! As a third grade teacher, I knew my students would appreciate the costume as well, so I went in search of some Ravenclaw wear since that is my Hogwarts house. I found this scarf (which comes in all four house colors), wand, and navy blue top. Add a book, and I’m a Ravenclaw student! I love easy costumes like this.
How will you be celebrating Halloween this weekend?
P.S. Halloween traditions and simple decorations for Halloween and Thanksgiving.
