by Arleen M. Kaptur
Autumn - marks the beginning of a whirlwind of
activities as the Holiday Season begins - Many
people enjoy Halloween, Thanksgiving and
Christmas with New Year's not too far behind.
Savoring each day of autumn until winter white
and the beauty of glistening snow and delicate
flakes envelope your world, or cooler breezes
and waning daylight (whichever part of the world
you call home), missing even one inspiring moment
would be a waste - never to be reclaimed.
A few "touches" for your autumn venture and
the beginning of a bright, promising Holiday
Season in which young and old can cross
thresholds, borderlines, and become one again.
Cinnamon or spice scented candles are especially
fragrant during this time of year. Or better yet,
pumpkin pie spice simmering on the stove or
wafting gently from pies baking in the oven.
Cinnamon sticks, vanilla, and pungent spices add
highlight to the upcoming events. Pick, choose,
and experiment until you get the scent that will
greet family and friends and excite those cool
weather appetites.
Don't have time for a pumpkin pie - this is a
great substitute:
1/2 cup of canned pumpkin
3/4 cup milk or vanilla yogurt
1/4 tsp. cinnamon
1/8 tsp. nutmeg
2 tsp. brown sugar
4 ice cubes
In a blender or food processor, puree all
ingredients until smooth and creamy.
Garnish with whipped topping.
Halloween Tidbit:
Having adults coming over while their children
are trick-or-treating or just stopping by to share
some mulled wine or spiced apple cider:
Adult trick or treat bags should be handed out
to all your "older" visitors. Mystery books,
bookmarks, coffee mugs, individual serving-
size packages of gourmet coffee or tea,
refrigerator magnets and mixes for apple cider
or chili (in individual bags, tied with yarn) are
thoughtful and well-received treats. A piece of
candy is nice, too.
On Halloween night, create a pathway to your
door with fake tombstones from bygone eras.
Large cereal boxes covered with white butcher
paper and inscribed with epitaphs are fun and
inexpensive. Comical sayings are best for all
ages concerned and "scary" sayings should be
avoided if little ones may venture through.
Pull out a Halloween costume and find out that
it doesn't fit anyone any more? Don't just toss
them away. Fill the costume with newspaper
or plastic bags and have these "extra" guests
sitting on porch, swings, around outdoor
tables, etc.
Have fun with the remaining fall weather and
the wonderful beginning of the Holiday
Season -
ENJOY!
©Arleen M. Kaptur October
