Category: Halloween

Journal Writing Prompts for October

Whether you are just beginning or been keeping a journal for years, writing your thoughts and feelings down on paper is good for your well-being. Do you need some writing inspiration? Check out the following journal writing prompts for October.

  1. How did September go for you, your family, your loved ones, and your co-workers? Write about your best and worst moments from September in detail.
  2. What are you looking forward to the most in October?
  3. What do you hope to accomplish in the last 3 months of 2020?
  4. What are your thoughts on the pandemic? Are you still under restrictions for your area?
  5. Make a list of 10 things to get done by the end of the month. Put a star by the most important one.
  6. Write about that made you smile today.
  7. If you could have lunch with any writer, actor, or actress, who would you pick? Why?
  8. Are you decorating for Halloween? Why or Why not?
  9. Write about what you were doing at 10 am, 3 pm, and 7pm.
  10. Write a restaurant review.
  11. October is Family History Month. Write about your family’s beginnings.
  12. Write about your grandparents or other older family members. Describe their appearance, personality, and different mannerisms that make them stand out.
  13. Write about your name. How did you get your first and middle names? What does your surname mean? Are you named after anyone in your family?
  14. Write about your favorite memory with your grandparents or other older family members.
  15. Wo in your family inspires you? Why?
  16. Write about your current family status. (Yes, your dog counts as a family member).
  17. What does the word family mean to you?
  18. What is the one thing you would to do before 2020 is over? Why is this important to you?
  19. Write about your entire day from the perspective of your pet. (Yes, a stuffed animal counts).
  20. Free write for 15 minutes.
  21. Describe your current weather condition. Does the weather affect your mood?
  22. Write a book review.
  23. What are you currently reading or watching? What is the attraction?
  24. Whare are your thoughts on Halloween this year?
  25. What is your favorite spooky movie? Why?
  26. Did you have Halloween parties at school? What do you remember the most about the celebration?
  27. Did you celebrate Halloween as a child? Did you go trick-or-treating? What is your best Halloween memory?
  28. What are your Halloween plans?
  29. How does this Halloween differ from last year?
  30. Do you believe in ghosts? Why or Why not?
  31. Happy Halloween! How did your day go?

Self-Care Ideas for October

October brings colder weather, longer nights, and Halloween. Focusing on yourself is essential for your health and well-being. Do you need some self-care ideas for October? Check out the following for inspiration.

  1. Get plenty of sleep, take a nap or sleep in when possible.
  2. Drink lots of fluids-water, tea, and maybe even a tall glass of apple cider.
  3. Buy yourself something new. (Yes, a dollar store Halloween figurine counts.)
  4. Take an extra-long hot shower or soak in a warm, bubble bath.
  5. Call a friend.
  6. Order take out from your favorite restaurant.
  7. Go for a walk to view the Halloween decorations in your community.
  8. Work out to a beginner’s video on YouTube.
  9. Unplug from social media for an hour, six hours, or an entire day.
  10. Grab your favorite fuzzy blanket and spend your Saturday reading a book.
  11. Write letters or send out Halloween cards with notes inside.
  12. Binge-watch Halloween shows.
  13. Go hiking
  14. Cook your favorite meal.
  15. Do Halloween themed crafts.
  16. Sip a warm beverage while stargazing.
  17. Use relaxing music to meditate or pray.
  18. Visit your local pumpkin patch. Carve and display your pumpkin.
  19. Give yourself a spa day-soak your feet, paint your nails, and apply a facial.
  20. Make a Halloween-themed playlist.
  21. Try a new food.
  22. Take a virtual tour.
  23. Keep a journal or diary.
  24. Go for a long drive and play the music loud.
  25. Take an online course. (There are numerous free courses or seminars available.)
  26. Eat your favorite soup on a cold autumn day.
  27. Take your dog for an extra-long walk. If you don’t have a dog, volunteer to be a dog walker at your local shelter or rescue.
  28. Paint or draw a Halloween scene.
  29. Declutter a room, closet, or a junk drawer.
  30. Try pumpkin-related food or beverage.
  31. Happy Halloween! Give yourself a treat.

No, Halloween is Not Canceled

Let’s repeat, Halloween is not canceled. Due to the pandemic, Halloween celebrations are different this year. Many areas are experiencing wide-spread cancellations of community events, including trick-or-treating. But, Halloween, a recognized holiday by millions, is not canceled.

Staying close to home provides the perfect opportunity to engage in other activities for your entire family to enjoy. Instead of celebrating Halloween on one night, spread out the activities during the whole month for extra fun.

Ideas for Halloween Fun

Do you need some inspiration to help celebrate Halloween? Check out the following list.

  • Decorate: Spend time decorating your yard, house, or room. Even small figures or handmade decorations provide a Halloween feel.
  • Halloween Crafts: Check out Pinterest for numerous family-friendly crafts for the whole family to enjoy.
  • Visit a Pumpkin Patch: Before heading out to your local pumpkin patch, check out the times and guidelines.
  • Pumpkin Carving:  Whether you went to a pumpkin patch or local supermarket, spend an afternoon carving your pumpkins.
  • Roast Pumpkin Seeds: Save and roast your pumpkin seeds for a delicious snack.
  • Look at Halloween Decorations: Walk (or drive) around your neighborhood to look at Halloween decorations.
  • Halloween-Themed Dinner: Make a spooky-themed dinner for your family or friends. Mummy hot dogs, ghost pancakes, blood-red juice, or pumpkin pie are just a few examples for a Halloween breakfast or dinner.
  • Movie Night: Host a family movie night with Halloween themed movies. It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown is always a traditional favorite.
  • Halloween Books: Read a Halloween story or make up a scary one of your own.
  • Halloween Playlist: Make a playlist of your favorite Halloween songs to play. Dancing and singing along to fun Halloween songs are a great way to enjoy the holiday.
  • Photo Session: Set up a backdrop (a plain old sheet works well). Get dressed up in your Halloween costumes, use props, and take lots of photos.
  • Scavenger Hunt: Hide Halloween candy or small toys. Place the items around your yard or home for a fun scavenger hunt.

Yes, repeat again. Halloween is not canceled; the holiday is just a little different this year. Pick one or numerous activities to enjoy Halloween over the whole month.

5 Tips for Pet Safety on Halloween

Throwing a party or trick-or-treating, Halloween is a fun and exciting time for everyone. Including your pets in family activities is a normal part of any type of event. Dogs and cats are valued family members. Following pet safety tips will help your pet be safe throughout all your Halloween activities.

5 Pet Safety Tips on Halloween

During Halloween activities, keep a watchful eye on your pets. Being proactive in pet safety will keep your beloved four-legged companion from an emergency vet visit. Consider the following areas for protecting your pet on Halloween.

Keep Halloween Candy in a Safe Place

Candy, especially chocolate, is a typical Halloween treat. Even though candy is tasty to humans, consuming chocolate can be lethal for pets. Keeping your bowl of candy or your children’s trick-or-treat stash in a safe place is essential for pet safety on Halloween.

Create a Safe Haven for Your Pets

Halloween activities can be noisy. Creating a safe haven for your pet helps reduce stress and anxiety.

  • Crate: If your pet feels comfortable in a crate, allow him or her to retreat to a familiar place.
  • Unused Room: Allow your pet to retreat to an unused room.
  • Bring Pets Indoors: Unfortunately, not everyone respects animals, bring your pets indoors for safety. Many outdoor pets are abused or go missing on Halloween.

Watch Your Door

Handing out candy is a significant part of Halloween. Children (and adults) in costumes can be scary for your dogs or cats. A normally well-behaved dog may try to attack. Keeping your dogs back from the door will protect you, your dog, and your trick-or-treaters. When you’re handing out candy, your cat may slip through an opened door. Watching your door at all times will help keep your pets safe and secure.

Secure Your Halloween Decor

Decorating for Halloween adds extra fun to the holiday. But unsecured decoration can create hazardous situations for your dog or cat.

  • Wires and Cords: Loose cords or cables can quickly become dangerous for your pets. Your four-legged friend can chew or get tangled up. The result could be deadly for your pet.
  • Candles: Lighted candles add atmosphere to your Halloween party. But open flames are a high risk to your pets. Your dog or cat could tip the candle over, causing a fire. Using flameless candles around pets is critical to prevent fires and the possibility of being burned.
  • Glow Sticks: Glow sticks are a popular choice for costumes, pumpkins, and other fun. If your dog chews on a glow stick, the contents can cause sickness. Keep all glow sticks away from your pet.

Dressing Up Your Pet

Be cautious when dressing up your pet for Halloween. Ask yourself, does my pet enjoy the costume? Many pets may become anxious if dressed up. If your pet does like the costume, check the material over to ensure your pet is safe. For example, dangling strings may cause your pet to trip. Your pet may chew on the strings causing sickness or choking.

Keep your Halloween enjoyable by implementing standard safety measures for your pets.

Throwing a Last Minute Halloween Party

Is the perspective Halloween forecast limiting your trick-or-treating options? Keep your children inside, throw a Halloween party. Planning an impromptu Halloween is the perfect way to celebrate on a cold, windy night. 

Tips for Last-Minute Halloween Party Planning 

The key to throwing a last-minute Halloween party is organization. Grab a tablet and begin to make plans. Do you need some help? Consider the following tips to make your party planning go smooth.

Guest List

The guest list is essential. Start by writing out a potential guest list. Begin calling, texting, or emailing the people on your list. If you are on Facebook, consider making a private group or invite page for the Halloween party. The group allows you to keep track of the number of people coming. Parents will be able to ask questions about the party. Most parents will ask what can they do to help. Do not be afraid to accept their help.  

Menu

When you get an estimate on the number of people attending, you can start food shopping. Finger food is always a party favorite. Mini sandwiches, snacks, and punch are simple treats for quick party planning. Or if your budget allows order pizzas. 

Craft Area

Set up a corner with different crafts for children to enjoy. The crafting material does not need to be elaborate or costly. 

  • Paint 
  • Paintbrushes 
  • Glue 
  • Glitter 
  • Pompons 
  • Markers 
  • Yarn
  • Googly eyes

Use small gourd-shaped pumpkins for painting. Or go to your local store to find some Halloween themed wooden cutouts. Even a posterboard can be a template for a spooky theme. Allow children to create and decorate. The party-goers will love the fact they get to take their creation home with them.

Games & Activities

Kids love to participate in fun, easy games. 

  • Long-Standing Tradition: Bobbing for apples is a Halloween tradition.
  • Ghost Toss: Make ghosts from white lunch bags.  Stuff the inside with newspaper or other lightweight material. Set up baskets to toss the ghosts in. 
  • Pumpkin Smile: Instead of Pin the Tail on the Donkey, play pin the smile on the pumpkin. Use large orange poster board to make a pumpkin cut out. Draw in the eyes and nose. Use yellow or black poster board to cut out mouths.
  • Scavenger Hunt: Hide Halloween themed items throughout the house. Make out clues that will lead your partygoers from one place to another. 
  • Ghost Hunt: Use tissue paper to wrap suckers in the shape of ghosts. Hide the ghosts throughout the house for your Halloween guests to find. 
  • Photo Booth or Display: Use a black sheet or other cloth to set up a photo area. Set out Halloween themed props. Designate someone at your party to be the official photographer.
  • Fear-Factor Inspired: Putting your hand in a box without knowing what is inside can be scary. Cold spaghetti noodles can pass for worms. Peeled grapes can be eyeballs. Just use your imagination. Or have some edible insects on hand for those who are brave enough to try. 

Take-Home Treat Bags 

Fill treat bags with goodies. The Halloween take-home bags do not necessarily have to be filled with just candy. Balls, fangs, spider rings, skeletons, puzzle pads, and other Halloween themed items are available. The size of the treat bags is entirely up to you. If you use the ghost toss game, the extra white bags are perfect for take-home treats. 

 

Rebecca’s Top 20: Halloween Movies for Family Night

Changing leaves, cooler weather, football, and Halloween are all a significant part of October. For added fun, incorporate Halloween themed movies into your family night.

Rebecca’s Top 20

  1. It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown (An all-time Halloween favorite)
  2. The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad (the collection has The Legend of Sleepy Hollow)
  3. Pooh’s Heffalump Halloween Movie
  4. Curious George: A Halloween Boofest
  5. Disney’s Mickey Mouse Clubhouse: Mickey’s Treat
  6. Casper’s Halloween Special
  7. Sesame Street: Trick or Treat on Sesame Street
  8. Paw Patrol: Halloween Heroes
  9. Toy Story of Terror
  10. Spongebob Squarepants-Halloween
  11. Scared Shrekless
  12. The Halloweentown series including  Halloweentown, Halloweentown II: Kalabar’s Revenge, Halloweentown High, and Return to Halloweentown
  13. Any of the Scooby-Doo movies
  14. The Addam’s Family
  15. Hocus Pocus
  16. Ghostbusters
  17. The Harry Potter series including Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, and Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1 & 2. 
  18. Beetlejuice
  19. Little Vampire
  20. Any of the Goosebumps movies

What is your favorite family-friendly Halloween movie?

 

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Halloween Bucket List

Halloween is just around the corner. Are you looking for something fun to do to put you in a witchy mood? Start by making a Halloween bucket list. Gather your family or friends to come up with the perfect list to make this Halloween memorable.

20 Halloween Bucket List Ideas

  1. Decorate or carve Pumpkins
  2. Eat toasted pumpkin seeds
  3. Go to a Haunted House
  4. Host a Family Movie Night (It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown is always a favorite).
  5. Make pumpkin bread
  6. Make ghosts out of cheesecloth
  7. Create a monster from paper mache
  8. Watch a horror movie in the dark
  9. Attend a Halloween party
  10. Host a Halloween party
  11. Go on a ghost tour
  12. Go on a haunted hayride
  13. Go through a corn maze
  14. Dance to Halloween themed music
  15. Participate or attend a Halloween costume parade
  16. Attend a Halloween themed community event
  17. Make paper bat garland to hang in the house
  18. Decorate your entryway to entice trick-or-treaters
  19. Participate in or attend a trunk or treat
  20. Either hand out candy or go trick or treating

Halloween is about having fun. Connect with your inner child. Participate in Halloween activities.

Please note: “As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.”

31 Days of Halloween Fun

Cooler nights, changing leaves, pumpkins, October is the perfect time to enjoy Halloween fun. Whether you participate in activities with friends or family, try out these ideas for 31 Days of Halloween Fun. 

31 Halloween Themed Activities 

  1. Visit a pumpkin patch. Bring home a pumpkin or several 
  2. Decorate for Halloween.
  3. Go to the library or bookstore to find Halloween themed books. 
  4. Make homemade Halloween cards. 
  5. Make monster cookies.
  6. Plan and make a homemade Halloween costume.
  7. Make two loaves of pumpkin bread. One to keep and one to give away to a friend. 
  8. Create a Halloween diorama. 
  9.  Watch classic monster movies. 
  10. Paint zombie, monster, or pumpkin-themed rocks to hide around the neighborhood. 
  11. Make a Halloween themed meal.
  12. Make orange tye-dyed t-shirts.
  13. Go on a haunted hayride.
  14. Walk or drive around to see the different pumpkin and Halloween decorations. 
  15. Tell or write a spooky tale. 
  16. Host a Halloween cartoon movie night. 
  17. Drink freshly pressed cider or warm apple spice cider. 
  18. Create a Halloween playlist. 
  19. Carve pumpkins.
  20. Roast pumpkin seeds.
  21. Visit a haunted house.
  22. Host a Halloween themed craft day. 
  23. Attend a pumpkin weighing contest.
  24. Go through a corn maze. 
  25. Attend a trunk or treat event. 
  26. Go on a haunted tour or ghost walk. 
  27. Host a bonfire night. 
  28. Have a Halloween themed photoshoot for you, your friends, your family, or your dogs. 
  29. Attend a Halloween parade or other community event. 
  30. Host a Halloween party. 
  31. Trick-or-treat. Happy Halloween!

Adding Halloween Fun to Your Daily Wardrobe

Summer has come to a close. For many areas, the Autumn season brings cooler nights, changing leaves, and of course Halloween. Stores, businesses, and yards show off Halloween themed decor in numerous ways. Halloween decor does not need to be limited to grand displays. Whether you are at work, school, or out on an adventure, add Halloween accessories to your wardrobe. Small Halloween inspired accessories spruce up your fall look at an affordable cost. 

Ways to Add Halloween Fun to Your Daily Wardrobe

Halloween is about having fun and reconnecting to your inner child. What items do you associate with Halloween? Pumpkins, black cats, witches, ghosts, and candy corn are generally at the top of the list. Common Halloween-themed colors include purple, black, orange, red, and green. Use a combination of Halloween themes and colors to accessorize your outfit. 

Halloween Socks

Knee socks are one of the best accessories to add to your fall-themed wardrobe. Everything from dancing skeletons to bright colors, Halloween socks come in different prints to accessorize any outfit. Quality knee socks are a widely versatile accessory. 

Knee socks can be worn under blue jeans or dress pants. Or use the Made in the USA Halloween socks, a more widely seen accessory. Match the knee socks with a skirt or shorts to show off the print. Regardless of your personal style, knee socks are the perfect addition.  

Jewelry

Necklaces, earrings, and bracelets are a perfect addition to any outfit. Around Halloween time, you can easily find themed jewelry. Custome jewelry is less costly to help you stay in your budget. 

Headbands

Headbands help control your hair. Halloween themed headbands come in various colors and styles. The headbands may have added embellishments. If you want some added fun, many headbands come with cat ears, veils, or small decorated hats. 

Hats

Hats conquer bad hair days. Halloween hats are just added fun. Many hats come with sayings or embroidered Halloween themed items.

Scarves

Halloween scarves come in numerous colors, prints, and styles. Adding a scarf to your outfit instantly creates a new look. Learn new ways to tie scarves to change the appearance of the accessory. Scarves are a diverse accessory. A scarf can be added to a business suit or a t-shirt. 

From Halloween socks to scarves, find the perfect accessory to add to your wardrobe to make the fall season fun.