Happy Halloween!

October is always a fun month with the lead-up to Halloween.

For some people, Halloween is their favorite holiday of the year. They enjoy displaying all the spooky decorations in both their houses and yards.

At the top of my Halloween fun list is pumpkin carving. I think many adults enjoy pumpkin carving as much as the kids do; I know I do. In my family, there’s also some friendly competition to see who has carved the best design into their pumpkin. I will admit to enjoying the squishy feeling of cleaning out the inside of the pumpkin, and yes, I know that’s weird. I also like to save and roast the pumpkin seeds to be enjoyed over the next few weeks if they last that long. The culmination of the month is Halloween, with trick-or-treating for the kids or parties for the adults.

At the shop, we always participate in our town’s “Fright Night” and trick-or-treating. We pass out candy, serve “Witch’s Brew,” and enjoy all the kids in their costumes.

For those curious about “Witch’s Brew,” it’s a simple blend of Orange Creamsicle Rooibos Tea and Ginger Ale. The rooibos tea and ginger ale have no caffeine, which parents will love you for, but the flavor combo is great. You brew a big batch of Orange Creamsicle Rooibos Tea and chill it down. Once it’s cool, you add Ginger Ale and ice. Pour it into a big black cauldron and put dry ice around it to create spooky fog. Have an adult dressed as a witch or warlock to serve the “Brew,” and you’re all set for a fun time.

If you’re heading out to an adult party, the “Witch’s Brew” can easily be transformed into an adult beverage by adding your favorite liquor.

PS. The Witch’s Brew can be made any time of the year, not just at Halloween. Think birthdays, picnics, other holidays, or any get-together where you’d like to serve a refreshing caffeine-free drink. And, of course, feel free to give it another fun name if you make it after Halloween.