Halloween was . . . . .

 AMAZING! 

Potion Making - I decided to volunteer (me & Samantha) for the Ward (church) Halloween party, by doing a potion-making room for the kids - especially since we are both Primary teachers. Because of my full time work schedule, my old and tired body, and no parking lot at the church building, I haven't done much more than teach on Sundays. So this felt good. I still stressed before hand though, planning out how we were going to unload everything, find street parking, etc. but it was much more doable than I thought, and worked out fine - especially because of Samantha. What would I do without her! She carried everything inside and pointed out a parking spot right across the street. She used her label maker to tag every bottle, as a reminder "Caution - do not drink". She helped me set up and then enjoyed the festivities upstairs (she is such a social butterfly) while I did some finishing up in our room downstairs. Our building is beautiful and old, and perfect for Halloween. Apparently it was a really good turnout with even a lot of adults in costume. When the kids and their parents came there was a line out the door to make their potions. I just loved it, and got to better-know more people. The most special patrons were, of course, my own family who was able to make it.

Movies - so many left, so little time. I had a whole list this month of movies I would watch. I got through a lot of them, so that is good enough. Most importantly, I kept my promise to myself: since Reggie is out of town I consoled myself all week of how I was going to be un-productive Friday night and watch "Bell, Book & Candle" while eating taco salad and Reeses PB Cups. Unfortunately, we were out of all the ingredients. So, after the ward party Samantha & I went to Costco. It was busy, but fun seeing so many shoppers in Halloween outfits. I was able to have my dinner & movie Saturday night - then a 3 hour nap - and now staying up late, which is rare these days, but fun.

Treats - Thursday I decided to make brownies as a treat for myself and my roommates of the day: Luke, Samantha and Ross (Reggie is out of town and Ross is in town, both on business). I happened upon a new  Halloween tradition. I thought I had the recipe memorized, but after the baking realized I put in only half the sugar. They turned out kind of dry & bitter. So, I sprinkled marshmallows and chocolate chips all over the top and put it back in the oven, on broil, for a couple of minutes. They turned out sweet, gooey & very yummy!

(Well, even in my younger days this was not me in the kitchen, but I like the picture & sentiment)

So, I guess that's a Halloween wrap. Though still full of challenges, October has been very good to me!