#they had crazy amazing apple cider donuts

[tossball-stick]

gooooood morning party people today im thinking about how dutch van der linde could very well be amish and how well that would wrap his character up in a neat little bow. i mean. one of the main things he values is classic living, hes a midwest dutch-american immigrant in the mid 1800s, he has a deep obsession with knowing how the world works (as if he had been sheltered from it in his youth), he talks about having complicated relationships with family after having left home, his constant hammering of hard work and faith as honorable values, and the fact that he went off to create his own cult-like group after a while.

[carmyberzattosjournal]

Entry 4: Apple Leaf Adagio

Bearblr Promptober Day 3: Apple Picking

Summary: In which Carmen reflects on the time you took him apple picking. Cute fluff.

Warnings: Nothing major, mentions of anxiety, swearing, written with fem reader who is a trauma surgeon (nothing gross described) in mind, she/her pronouns.

Notes: All journal entries will be titled as such and tagged with #cb journal.

Reblogs appreciated. Thank you to @carmenberzattosgf for putting together this prompt list.

03 Oct 2024

Sound stupid, but I went apple picking with my girlfriend today.

It’s something she used to do with her grandmother when she was a kid. There’s this orchard out in Boone County—Edward’s, I think? I can’t fucking remember. Anyway, it’s this cute little orchard, family-owned. Had, quite frankly, amazing apple cider donuts. These rows and rows of apple trees. We went first thing in the morning, when a lot of kids and families wouldn’t be around to overwhelm me. Felt strange leaving the restaurant partway through prep, but I need a break from the constant stress of it all before I become a problem for everyone else. I hate admitting that Syd was right about that, but she is. Again.

Anyway, it had rows and rows of apple trees, and so we picked a random one and just walked through it. They had decent selections but nothing that particularly caught my eye for a good tart or something to pair with duck (Tina was saying something about pairing the duck with an apple glaze) this early in the season. Seasonal menu changes are up in two weeks, and I got nothing substantial, it’s driving me nuts. Honestly felt like a waste of time. She reminded me that we were there to take a break. It wasn’t until I saw that her apple basket had that one with the green heart on it that I’d looked at several trees back that I realized she’d just been picking all the ones I found interesting.

It was sweet.

God, I love her so much.

She told me to focus on the sound of wind rustling the leaves. That I’d have other thoughts intrude, but to keep directing my attention back to the sound of the leaves. I asked her why, and she said that when things got crazy in the trauma bay, when she felt like too many things were happening all at once, when all the monitors were going off and the nurses were shouting and family members were being assholes and patient number 6 of the night came in looking more dead than alive, when her hands shook and she felt like she was going to puke, she found the sound of the ventilation system and focused on it while in the OR. Kept her from exploding.

I didn’t know if it was going to help me, but going to the orchard didn’t feel like a waste for the rest of the time we were there. The leaves, they made this soft sound in waves—maybe it was the wind pattern that day or I just never noticed it before—but they would whoosh loudly, then go quiet, then pick up volume, then trail off again. I could almost sway back and forth to it. A soothing hum that found permanent residence in my memory bank. During service, when the line started drifting behind, I tried to find it again, tried to conjure the adagio of the apple leaves. It didn’t return, but I kept thinking about it. And when I was thinking about walking through the trees with her, I’d blink, and 7 tickets would’ve gone by, and I wouldn’t’ve exploded. And then I’d feel my heart in my throat because the line was now 3 minutes behind, but then I could picture her smile as she held up another apple, the way the sun glittered in her eyes, almost hear the hum-dum-hum-dum of the leaves—and another 9 tickets would go by. 4 minutes behind. Still no explosion.

That’s something, right?

[lupienne]

The Reality - Negan and Lucille

Hey guys, here’s a little Halloween fic of Negan and Lucille. I started it like two years ago and never felt motivated to finish it. So I finally sat down today on Halloween and wrote the end of it, and while I’m not really happy with it... whatever. Here it is anyway! I think it’s kind of bittersweet, but that’s just me. 

-

The Reality

Gourds were on porches, leaves on the ground, and the stores were filled with pumpkin-flavored everything. The crisp air was a slap to the lungs, in a good way.

I'd always loved Fall, and I'd always looked forward to Halloween. That night when reality wavered on the edge. When you could be dark or light, the opposite of yourself – when you could be anything for just a few hours.

I hadn't been a fan of the days passing by lately. Dread sat like a tumor in my stomach.

The reality was... that reality fucking sucked.

I watched my breath puff out white as I came home on Thursday. Maybe it wouldn't fucking rain this Halloween. We might get snow instead.

After dinner, I polished off a few apple cider donuts, then settled on the couch to watch TV with Lucille. She was quiet and sleepy-eyed as the clock ticked towards my bedtime. The holiday was days away, falling right splat on a Saturday.

“Tony said he found some fuckin' booze flavored like Candy Corn. I hope that's not all he's gonna have, because that's gross as fuck.” I yawned. “What do you think I should dress as? Fuck, I shouldn't have waited until the last minute.”

We always attended Tony Synder's party down the block. I wasn't really crazy about the guy, but I'm not gonna pass up free food or secretly laughing at the neighbor's costumes. (I always looked fucking amazing.) I liked to switch up my style, but Lucille usually dressed as a witch. And not some sloppy, warty green hag...but a hot fucking witch. Her slim figure in a black corset, her tits pushed up, her cascade of black curls falling over one eye. In years past, we'd come home from that party partly drunk and ripping each other's costumes off as we stumbled through the door. God damn. I was almost getting hard thinking of it.

Almost. The past few years, Lucille had me at arm's reach and I couldn't blame her. I was shit, I was an unfaithful piece of shit, but she-

That shit didn't matter anymore.

“He-Man,” she said with a chuckle. “I want to see you rocking that little leather harness.”

“Goddamn, that's right on the edge of indecent exposure. Isn't he practically naked?”

“Why do you think I suggested it?”

“I would make a hot blond.” I slid closer to her, and she nestled against my side. “You gonna be my Bewitching Beauty as always?”

She was quiet for so long I thought she'd fallen asleep.

“...think I'm gonna sit this one out.”

“But why?”

“I don't know. Just not up to it, I guess. But you go, have fun. Maybe you'll find a hot date.”

I swallowed hard. After everything....I couldn't laugh at those types of jokes.

“...Stop that shit. You're the only hot date I want. I don't wanna go alone. We don't have to stay long.”

“Look, Negan, they won't want me there.”

“What the fuck are you talking about? Tony adores you, which is why I ain't his biggest fan, cause I know he's always wanted to stick his dick in you-”

She let out a laugh that was more of a scoff. “Doubt he feels that way now. Nobody wants a dying woman at their party, making things awkward.”

I felt like I'd been punched in the goddamn balls. My stomach went to my throat and I roiled with sudden nausea. Eyes burning with acid. I fought it, I fought it motherfuckin' hard . My jaw clenched like I was in rigor mortis, my body shuddering.

“Don't...don't say fucking shit like that.”

She nudged my ribs. “God, calm down, Negan. What about this, huh? I don't have any hair.”

“It's Hallo-fucking-ween. Everyone is wearing a motherfuckin' wig right now. You'll fit right in.”

She leaned her head on my arm. “I'm tired. I'll think about it. Ok?”

That meant no. But it wasn't official yet, so I was gonna stop at the party store and buy that fucking He-Man getup and the best witch wig I could find. She'd change her mind right quick once she saw me in that loincloth.

As she went to bed, I stared out the window at the orange light of our Jack-o-lantern. The nausea had settled back into my bones. A constant undercurrent, moving through my veins like poisoned blood.

Too many tricks, life. Not enough treats.

---

Friday night. I stopped at the party store. The cashier rung up my purchases, then looked me over with a twinkle in her eye. I refused to be flattered – ok, I was kind of fucking flattered. The wig for Lucille was the most expensive they had. If you squinted, it looked nearly like her natural spill of curls.

At home, I put my hand on the package, and felt a rush of fucking darkness come over me. I had to fucking sit there, like so many nights, fighting the thoughts that stung like needles. If I let them keep stinging, the tears would come – the fucking breakdown would follow.

So I fought it. I shut it down. I fucking locked it up, because Lucille doesn't like it when I fall apart – and why should she? I'm the man. I'm supposed to be her rock. She hates it when I cry. I hate it when I cry.

So I fucking smiled when I walked in the door. I smelled Chinese food. Lucille was already piling mine onto a plate – the sweet n' sour chicken I love. All she ordered was a tub of Wonton soup. I frowned, but said nothing. At least she's eating.

She looked at the bag in my hand, and she too, said nothing. “Dinner's ready. And I rented some Halloween movies.”

We ate and watched Child's Play and Micheal Myers and a leprechaun who makes bad jokes. I didn't mention the costume or the party, but I knew I'd be going alone. I spend the last movie wondering how I'll excuse my wife's absence, and how the fuck I'm gonna endure the pity in their eyes. It fucking pissed me off. That they're putting her in the ground already. That she's putting herself there.

“Honey,” she rubbed my tense arm. “You ok?”

“Yeah, babe. Just...indigestion.”

And damn this woman, she got up to make me a cup of peppermint tea. I sat there numb, wondering what the fuck I'm going to do without her.

----

“By the POWER OF GRAYSCALE, behold my glorious sword! ...and by sword, I mean dick.” I adjusted He-Man's fake-fur loincloth. Played with it, flipped it around. I wore some black boxers under it, but I was still worried about...slippage. I looked so fucking ridiculous.

I slid on the blond bob wig, examining the hot mess in the mirror. “Haha, oh yeah! What a fine motherfucker. Jesus H Christ. I am a glutton for punishment. Ok, babe. I'm decent! Come check me out before I head over there!”

“It's Grayskull, not Grayscale. Get it right, Negan.”

The bedroom door swung open and my mouth dropped. My Lucille stood there, the black wig cascading over her shoulders. Her body, slimmer than ever, hugged by a slinky black dress and purple corset. Glitter dusted her chest and cheeks.

“Goddamn, woman.”

“I couldn't miss out on that Candy Corn booze.”

I smiled, but we both knew she wouldn't be drinking that. She'd be spending the night over the toilet. I had to banish that thought fuckin' quick. She already spends too many nights over the toilet.

“I'll taste test it for you first. Let you know exactly how fucking disgusting it is.”

-

We headed down the block, passing early Trick-or-Treaters. The rain had come after all, but merely presented as a pathetic drizzle. The mist in the air diffused the street lamps into yellow balls of light. I wish I'd brought my coat to drape over Lucille's bare shoulders. Spooky music played from our elderly neighbor's house and he waved at us. Lucille waved back.

Tony's yard had become a graveyard of cardboard tombstones and dry ice. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw Lucy shiver.

“Want me to go back and grab a coat?”

“Don't be dumb. We're almost there.”

On the porch, Tony's tween kid sat in a lawn chair with a bowl of candy. No costume, how quaintly rebellious. She looked bored as fuck until we rolled up, and then she snickered openly. Dear fucking God. I hoped my loincloth was in place. My nipples were like fucking pebbles on either side of the plastic harness. I quickly banged on the door.

Tony opened it. “Negan! And Lucille! Very nice, very nice. Love the costume, although I'd never call you a witch. Or anything rhyming with it.”

We did an obligatory laugh. The tween rolled her eyes.

“You look cold, Negan. Better step inside. I got the lager ready to go.” Tony had the same damn smirk as his kid.

“Why did you pick this costume for me again?” I muttered. We passed through the entryway strung with a beaded curtain of bats and spiders. The living room was bathed in red light and Monster Mash blasted from the stereo. Tony's wife always went all-out with this shit. A skeleton sat in the armchair and fake cobwebs were every-fucking-where. I hoped the dry ice didn't affect Lucy's breathing.

Wifey Tanya came over, hugging Lucille and complimenting our costumes. I glanced down, wondering how they saw her. Did they know the shadowed eyes and gaunt cheeks weren't make-up? Did they notice the weight she'd lost?

I still saw beauty. The cut flower, vibrant and blooming –just don't think of the future, the withering-

Freeze that shit in time. I closed my ears to nothing but the soundtrack of screams and creaking doors, back-lit with the wailing of ghosts. Party guest voices blabbered over it all. We melted into the past. It was another party like the parties of years before. Slightly pathetic in that 'thirty-something's hanging out' kind of way. Laughing too loud. Secretly sizing each other up.

At least the lime green jello shots were good.

So yeah, it was just another lame party, and because of that, it wasn't. Because for a while...we were normal. Lucille laughed. I saw her smiling. Within her costume, she wasn't the Sick One. She was the mischievous witch, mingling with devils and cowboys and kitty cats.

Mrs Tillerman from school was there. She drank too much of that nasty Candy Corn atrocity. I caught her checking me out and I felt – for maybe the first time ever – ashamed. Other women looked at me too, making slightly-tipsy comments in my direction. I was glad Lucille was across the room, no doubt bored out of her mind listening to Ms Crouch talk about her fucking kids. And by kids, I mean her cats.

“Mmm, hello, He-Man. Nice sword. Remember that time after school?” Mrs Tillerman, winking and nudging.

“Sorry, He-Man has no fucking recollection of that.”

She'd sucked my dick once. Just once. That was really enough for me. I think I'd only allowed it because I could. Now, I saw what a fucking piece of trash I was. Hopefully, when she sobered up, she would too.

“You don't?” She took another swig from her solo cup and let out a burp. I quickly turned her in the direction of the bathroom. Just in time, because Lucille was drifting my way.

“Motherfuckin' crowd is getting drunk. There's probably going to be barf in the apple-bobbin' water. As if bobbing for apples isn't fucking gross enough.” I had to yell as The Addam's Family theme blasted from the speakers.

“Yeah.” She looked pale under the glitter.

“You had enough?”

I knew she had. We'd done it, we'd made our appearance, we'd given proof of life. I squeezed her hand, then found our host. I was tired, had papers to grade, been a great party...you know the bullshit, Tony.

-

We walked home silently. I wanted to ask how she was feeling. It was a lump in my throat. She'd probably just be annoyed. Say I was worrying too much. Say she was fine.

The warm glow of our porch washed over us. It sparkled the glitter on her cheeks, flushed pink from the cold. I wanted badly to kiss her. Instead, I fumbled in my He-Man boot for the house key.

Kids screamed and laughed on the street, swinging their bags of candy. It was just another Halloween in a long line of them, stretching out into our future. Maybe ten years from now, our kid would join the others.

Tomorrow, I wouldn't think like this. But tonight – fucking dammit, I was going to pretend we had years ahead of us.

I got the door open, got us in, shut it against the chill.

“Fuck. Don't know if that was worth going to. You have fun?”

The orange glow filtered in through the glass panel of our front door. Moonlight through the windows, silvering the interior. Everything was dark, but sharply edged with white. Lucille turned to face me. She discarded her witch's hat, the wig – no...her hair, looking real and soft and luscious, spilling onto her shoulders. She slowly drew one hand up my naked stomach and my skin shivered under the touch.

“He-Man,” she rasped. “I've put you under my spell.”

“Lucille...?”

“It's Lucianna. Maiden of the Night. And I've cast my spell upon you.”

I imagined she'd gotten that crap from those dumb novels she liked to read. The ones with guys who wished they were as hot as me on the cover. “Oh yeah? What spell is that?”

Her hand drifted under my loincloth. I let out a breath. Shit. I hadn't felt her touch me there for weeks.

“The spell of Lust. I'm irresistible to you.”

She didn't need a spell for that.

She rose to her tiptoes, her cold arms against my chest. “...Negan. Make love to me. “

“...but...Lucille...”

It's too strenuous for you. You'll be tired. I'm afraid I'll hurt you -

She didn't look tired. Her eyes were dark and wide, her skin sparkling. The chilled hands sliding under the plastic harness were strong and sure. Her lips hungrily pressed to my chin. “...Don't resist me, He-Man. Give me this night – a Halloween like we used to have.”

I fucking melted like the half-frozen rain under the burning Halloween moon. What could I do?

“By the power of Grayscale, I pull forth my sword, Lucianna!”

“That's Grayskull, He-man!” She laughed as I backed her to the couch, my hands fumbling at her corset. “Ooh, that's such a big sword you have. You sure you can lift that thing up?”

“Witch, I'm gonna impale you so fuckin' deep with my hard steel. You just fuckin' wait.”

“Oh, I'm waiting, but you still have your clothes on.”

Heh. Good thing He-Man was half-fucking-naked already. The witch was helpless to my brute strength as I lifted her and carried her into the bedroom.

-

To be honest, there wasn't anything rough or hard about it. Even on devil's night, I had to maintain some sense of restraint. My hands gently stroked ribs under frail skin, planted kisses onto delicate shoulders and licked along a ridge of collarbone. Lucianna, my withering flower, her beauty stretched across bones.

Her hands, digging hard into my shoulders, her legs, wrapping me like squeezing pythons – well, they felt anything but weak.

After, we lay breathing and nestled together. The light outside came and went, broken up by drifting clouds. Lucille's sharpened features were softened. Her wig was still on and still looked real as fuck – money well spent. Her eyes, half-lidded, were tired, but tired in a good fucking way.

“Not a bad fucking Halloween, huh, Lucy?”

“Pretty damn good fucking Halloween,” she whispered.

She closed her eyes, and I watched her, drowsing there in the dark. Her spell was slowly melting away; her magic could only veil the truth so long.

But for a few hours, reality shifted and wavered on the edge. She was alive, she was here, and we would spend our nights beside each other, just like this.

For just the brief span of our last Halloween night, I could have it. It was my reality.

And the reality was... that reality was fucking great.

[crashingdarkwaves]

tuesday, october 13, 2020

life has been incredibly overwhelming. i felt so confident and happy for about 2 months. but it all came crashing down a few weeks ago. i cancelled a date last minute from nerves and the realization that i’m not completely healed from the past, and i just dwelled on my own mistakes and what could have been. i have trust issues, but i know it won’t last forever. but my depression has been really bad again - bad to the point where i’m having suicidal thoughts. so i’ve finally made the decision to start medication.

although i’m scared of what the future will bring and have a lingering sense of hopelessness, i try to remind myself of all the good things in my life. i got to visit with a friend who feels like my safe haven. we went to the local bakery, which was filled with Harry Potter decor for the back-to-school (“Hogwarts”) season. we got our butter bears, themed pastries, and even got “sorting hat” macroons (I got placed in my house Hufflepuff, and she got Hufflepuff too - even though she’s 100% Slytherin lol). we went back to her place, made tacos, and watched Hell Fest.

i also got to spend the day with a friend i hadn’t seen in a while. we dressed up cute, when to the local apple orchard, picked apples, took pics, grabbed some cider donuts, and the best apple butter sugar cookies i’ve ever tasted in my life, grabbed dinner and had a deep conversation about life, and went back to her place. i finally befriended her cat (she actually snuggled up to me and i almost cried), and we watched Silence of the Lambs.

i also confided in a few of my super close friends about my pain. and to my surpise, i was delivered some amazing chocolate covered strawberries with a thoughtful note from one friend, and was hand-delivered flowers and a card from the other. and i cried at each gift. and then the following weekend, we grabbed some ramen from our favorite korean spot, had a picnic in the city while we watched the sun set over the river, stopped by our favorite cafe for some cake and hot chocolate, and watched Scooby Doo and Cody Ko and Noel Miller videos.

then this past weekend, my family and i actually went out and spent the day with each other. we went to the art institute for their Día de los Muertos exhibit, tried some of the best sliders i’ve ever had for dinner (my mom and i took a selfie at the restaurant - isn’t she BEAUTIFUL?), and stopped by our favorite Middle Eastern bakery for dessert.

i try my best to take in these moments in my life, especially among this pandemic, working from home life, and as my depression decides to take control. it’s a constant battle, and i sometimes feel crazy for feeling happy and confident one day, and then extremely hopeless the next. all i can say is that i’m proud i’m making the effort i need in my mental health. i’ll never stop fighting. i just can’t.

[thruheavenandhighwater]

Fall Series - Calum

[[ Ashton ]] [[ Luke ]] [[ Michael ]]

Pairing: Calum Hood/ Female Reader

Requested By: N/A

Word Count: 4,893

Summary: Fluffy pumpkin patch adventure with Cal Pal. 

“And, here we are.” Calum said as he parked the car. He'd made you cover your eyes for the last mile so you wouldn't ruin the surprise he had planned. You took your hands from your face and looked around. You were in a gravel parking lot, and about twenty other cars surrounded you. But when you turned around, your face lit up in a smile at the sign above the entrance that said “Pumpkin Patch.”

“Calum!” You said excitedly as you turned back to face him. You leaned over the center console and put one hand around his neck, pulling him in to a kiss. “You are the best boyfriend ever.” You told him as you pulled away. He smiled back at you, his eyes bright.

“Let's go get you a pumpkin, my love.” He told you as he opened his car door.

“Two pumpkins?” You asked, linking your hand with his as you walked to the entrance.

“Two pumpkins.”

“Three pumpkins?”

He looked over you with a fake angry look. “Two pumpkins.”

“Fine.” You said with a sigh. “Two pumpkins.”

When you walked through the gate the smell of warm cinnamon hit you. You smiled as you noticed a concession stand a few yards in front of you. You closed your eyes and took a deep breath through your nose, letting the fall scents surrounding you fill your senses. Calum lead you to the concession stand and ordered cinnamon donuts and hot apple cider for both of you. You let out an audible sigh as you took a sip from the foam cup in your hand.

“Is it good?” Calum asked with a giggle.

“Amazing.” You answered. You looked up at him, the sun getting in your eyes as you walked. “I love fall so much. I miss it every year as soon as it's gone.”

“I know you do, princess.” He said, taking a bite of his donut.

“And I love you so much.”

“I love you, too.”

“So much?”

“So, so much, princess.” He answered, smiling down at you again before placing a soft kiss to your hair.

After finishing your cider and donuts, you threw away your trash and started making your way around the property. You were pleasantly surprised to find that they also had hayrides available. You stopped to read the sign that gave information and ride times when you felt Calum slip his arm around your back, his hand landing on your hip.

You leaned your head into his shoulder. “We should go on a hayride.”

“We can do that.” He answered, resting his cheek on top of your head. “Looks like there's one in a few minutes.” He said, motioning towards the ride times with his free hand.

Calum lead you towards the line for the hayrides, where you excitedly waited for your turn. After a few minutes, you saw an old red pickup truck pulling a trailer full of people coming up the road. You reached for Calum's hand while a small squeal fell from your lips.

“You're crazy, baby girl.” Calum laughed at you, shaking his head.

“I'm just really happy.” You sighed.

“I know you are.” He whispered, kissing your temple just as the truck pulled to a stop in front of the line of people. “And I'm glad that you're really happy.”

“I wouldn't be so happy if I didn't have the world's most amazing boyfriend.” You looked up at him just in time to catch him turning his face away from you, a wide grin playing on his lips. He always did this when you made him blush, and you always thought it had to be the cutest thing this world has ever seen.

You smiled to yourself as you walked forward with him to the back of the truck. An employee was in the trailer at the back helping people up. He put his hand out to you and you took it, dropping Calum's hand as you did. Calum climbed up behind you and grabbed your hand again as soon as he was in. The two of you found a spot at and sat down on top of a bail of hay.  

You put yours and Calum’s hands in your lap as you leaned your head onto his shoulder. Once again, he rested his cheek on the top of your head comfortably. You let out a content sigh and started to rub the fingers of your free hand over the back of his large, tattooed hand. You decided that this was definitely your happy place. Early fall, on a hayride at a pumpkin patch with the love of your life. How could anything possibly be better than this?

The truck started up again and began to lurch forward slowly, heading towards the road. You watched the scenery around you as you rode along. Since Calum had made you cover your eyes on the way in you had missed the beautiful sights surrounding the pumpkin patch. Trees with leaves in various shades of greens, reds, and yellows lined the street. There was the slightest breeze as you rode, just enough that it made it feel that much more like fall, but not enough that you were actually cold.

You closed your eyes and snuggled deeper into Calum’s side. He moved his face and kissed the top of your head, his lips staying in that spot for a few moments. “Love you.” He whispered, just loud enough for you to hear him.

A wide, bright grin spread across your face slowly. You opened your eyes and turned to look at him. You always thought that Calum was handsome, because he always was. Even when he was just waking up and his curls were a wild mess, or the few times you’d seen him sick and looking something akin to death itself. He was always the most beautiful person you’d ever seen. But right now, the sunshine dancing across his tan skin while the colors of fall filled out your field of vision, you were completely convinced that Calum Hood had to be some kind of work of art.

You leaned into him, your lips meeting his in a delicate kiss. He returned the kiss happily, his pouty lips molding to yours perfectly. After a moment, you pulled away and grinned at him again. You took a moment to appreciate the way the sunlight made his dark brown eyes light up as he gazed back at you, his own lips tugging up into a sweet smile.

The hayride lasted about fifteen minutes. It took you all around the small town that played host to the pumpkin patch. You absolutely loved the way the local businesses all decorated their storefronts for the fall season. Pumpkins, ghosts, black cats, and vampire bats lined the sidewalks along the main street of the town. The town was less than an hour from your own home, and yet you couldn’t help but to feel like a tourist as you took in all of the sights.

The truck made its way back to the pumpkin patch, jolting you just slightly as it came to a stop. You and Calum stood and brushed the loose hay from your pants before walking towards the gate at the back of the trailer. Calum let go of your hand and stepped down, putting his hand out to help you once he was down.

“Why, thank you.” You giggled as you stepped down next to him.

“Anything for my girl.” He smiled, putting one arm around your waist. “So, we’ve had our snacks.” He started as the two of you walked.

“We have.” You agreed.

“We even had drinks.”

“Yes we did.”

“We’ve done the hayride.”

“Yes.”

“Is there anything else we need to do before we get you your pumpkins?”

You pulled your bottom lip between your teeth as you thought about it. Just as you were about to tell him that no, there was nothing else, something a few yards ahead of you caught your eye. “There’s one more thing.” You told him, not breaking your line of sight on the objects in front of you. Calum followed your eyes, his head dropping to his chest with a dramatic sigh when he saw what you were looking at.

“Do we have to?” He asked.

“Yes, we have to! Come on, it’s tradition!” You said, your speed picking up as you pulled him behind you.

You came upon a row of plywood photo stands with face cutouts. These were exactly the kind of cheesy things that you loved. Calum loved them, too, though he would never admit it even to you. It was always a bit of a hassle to get him to agree to take the pictures with you, but he always said yes in the end. And he always had the biggest smile on his face in the photos.

“We can do one.” Calum said flatly as you approached them. There were pictures of witches on broomsticks, ghosts, vampires, and black cats, the usual Halloween selection. What you were not expecting was the much smaller one on the end. It was just over four feet tall with a painting of Robin Hood holding his bow and arrow.

“Calum, please.” You begged as you tugged him towards the photo. “Baby, it’s perfect! Robin Hood, Calum Hood.”

Calum looked at the picture and back to you. “This is really the one you want to do?”

“Yes, it really is.” He let out another dramatic sigh as walked behind the picture and leaned down, putting his face into the cutout. You pulled your phone from your pocket and held it up. “Okay, smile!” He didn’t smile. He kept his lips in a tight line and furrowed his brows. You dropped your phone and popped your hip, crossing your arms in front of your chest.

“Can you take the picture, please?” He asked.

“Can you smile, please?” You retorted. He contorted his face into a grimace. “You are so ridiculous.” You told him with a roll of your eyes.

“I’m sorry, princess. Here, take the picture.” He finally smiled. The big, beautiful, sun shaming smile that made your heart melt and your stomach twist itself into knots every time you saw it. The corners of his eyes crinkled as he showed off the top row of his perfect teeth, a laugh falling from his open lips. You put your phone back up and snapped off a few shots with a grin on your own face. You knew he’d give in, and you had to admit that there was a part of you that kind of loved the fight he would always put up. You smiled down at your phone, swiping through the pictures you’d taken while Calum stepped around the photo stand.

“You’re so pretty.” You cooed in a sticky sweet voice as he rejoined you. Calum rolled his eyes at you as he walked back to the line of photo stands.

“Yeah, yeah. Okay, which one do you want to do?” He asked, gesturing towards them.

“You said we could only do one.” You reminded him.

He looked down at you, a shy smile playing on his lips before he turned away. “Fine, if you don’t want to do another…”

“Calum Thomas Hood, don’t you dare take another step.”

He turned back to you with a smile. He stepped back towards you and put his hand on your cheek. His fingers gripped the back of your neck gently as he pulled you in for a kiss. You brought your hand up to grip his wrist. You smiled into the kiss, unable to stop yourself.

Calum separated the kiss, stepping away from you as he ran his thumb along your cheek. “Okay, princess. Pick one.” He told you quietly before placing a quick kiss to your forehead.

You turned back to the row of photo stands. You took a moment to look over all of them, pulling your bottom lip between your teeth again as you deliberated. “I think I want to be cats.” You said finally.

“Then let’s be cats.” Calum stopped a couple near you, handing over his phone after one of them had agreed to take your picture. You both thanked them as Calum took his phone back. He looked at the photo on the screen, both of your smiles wide and genuine. “Wow.” Calum breathed out as he showed you the picture.

“What?” You asked, taking his phone from him. You started scanning the picture, trying to find something wrong with it.

“It’s just that, I always knew you were the most beautiful person in the world. I had no idea that you’d also be a beautiful cat.”

You felt a blush creep onto your cheeks. “You keep up with the sweet talk and you might just get kissed.”

“Is that a promise?” He asked, already leaning forward, wiggling his eyebrows as he spoke. His lips met yours again. Soft, and sweet, and way too quick before he pulled away again. He placed his phone back into his pocket before taking your hand in his and leading you towards the pumpkins.

There was a row of wagons next to the patch, waiting to be filled with pumpkins. Calum grabbed one of the wagons while you started excitedly walking through the rows. You eyed every pumpkin carefully as you searched for the right ones to take home with you. You leaned over, running your hand over the surface of a nice looking pumpkin in front of you.

“Is that the one?” Calum asked from behind you.

You shook your head as you stood back up straight. “No, it’s uneven.”

“Baby, they’re pumpkins. They’re all uneven.”

“Well that one is extra uneven.” You told him as you started to move down the row. “Calum, my love, this is a process. I can’t just pick the first one I see.”

Calum rolled his eyes playfully as he followed you, pulling the wagon behind him. “Of course not. What was I thinking?” He asked with a small smile. You stuck your tongue out at him over your shoulder, earning a giggle from him. The sound made your heart swell as it filled your ears.

You continued down the rows, occasionally stopping to inspect a pumpkin or two. Calum followed close behind you, the still empty wagon behind him. You were starting to get a little annoyed as you went along. It seemed as though every pumpkin in the patch had something wrong with it. Most were just too small, and a few others were lopsided and you knew that you wouldn’t be able to carve anything decent into them.

You let out a huff as you stood after deciding against yet another pumpkin. You turned to Calum and wrapped your arms around his waist, resting your cheek against his chest. He snaked his arms around your shoulders and kissed the top of your head. “What’s the matter, princess?”

“I don’t like any of these.” You sighed. “I think this might be a lost cause.”

Calum rubbed one hand up and down your back as he pulled you closer to him. “It's not a lost cause. We've only looked at half of them, babe. There's still plenty of options.”

“Yeah, but they always put the ugly ones in the back. Everyone knows that.”

Calum giggled, his chest shaking under your cheek as he kissed the top of your head once more. “We could go get some fake ones at the store?”

You pulled away from the warm hug and looked up at him. “I am not putting out fake pumpkins.”

“Then let's go find you a real one. A perfectly even, not lumpy, nicely orange real pumpkin.”

You gave him a small smile before returning your cheek to his hoodie clad chest. “How'd I get so lucky with you?”

Calum moved one hand to cradle the back of your head, his fingers slipping into your hair. You stood there for a few minutes. Even though you were slightly upset just a few moments ago at the thought of leaving empty handed, Calum always had a way of making everything better. Even the times he couldn't make it better, he could always make you feel better, even if just for a little while.

Your eyes fell closed as a sigh fell from your lips. For a minute, you actually forgot that you were surrounded by other people who were also hunting for their own perfect pumpkins. Calums strong arms holding you close, the smell of his cologne filing your senses, the sounds of leaves crunching as people walked around you. You couldn't remember the last time you'd felt so at ease.

You moved your arms so that your hands landed on Calum's hips. He followed suit, moving his own hands to cup your shoulders. “Ready to keep searching?” He asked you with a smile.

You nodded, returning his smile quickly before moving forward and pecking his lips. You kissed him once more, and another time for good measure. Between each kiss you saw his smile grow wider and wider. God, he really had the most beautiful smile.

Turning away from him, you continued to make your way slowly down the row of pumpkins. After a few steps you stopped to eye one good looking pumpkin in front of you. You squatted in front of it, your knees meeting your chest as you reached both hands out to better inspect it. You turned it on the ground, the dirt underneath of it shifting as you did. You were surprised to find that it was actually kind of perfect. A little discolored in a few spots, but nothing that couldn’t be easily covered or even carved out with the right design. You turned slightly and looked up at Calum, who was already grinning back down at you.

“What do you say? Is it good?”

“Yeah, it’s great!” You answered excitedly.

You stood up straight as Calum bent over, picking up the pumpkin before gently placing it into the wagon behind him. “See?” He asked as he brushed some dirt from his hands. “I told you we would find some good ones.”

“You did.” You agreed. “Now, you did promise me two pumpkins so let’s go find him a friend.”

“It’s a boy pumpkin?” He asked with a chuckle.

“Obviously.” You answered, flipping your hand over your shoulder as you turned away from him again to find another pumpkin. You grinned to yourself when you heard his giggle following you, the sound of the wagon wheels making themselves heard as he started to follow you.

The two of you continued to look for a second pumpkin for a few more minutes. You felt yourself starting to get discouraged again the more you looked. You were almost to the back of the patch, where you were sure they would have hidden the ugliest pumpkins. But, you decided to give them the benefit of the doubt and look anyway. Calum had promised you could get a second pumpkin, after all.

A few feet from the end very end of the patch, you spotted it. The most perfect pumpkin you had ever seen. You didn’t even need to get closer to it to know that this was the one. You picked up your pace a little as you walked over to it, your excitement getting the best of you. The sound of Calum’s laugh filled your ears as you walked.

“What happened to them putting all the ugly ones at the back, then?” He asked, still laughing as you got down to your knees to get a better look at the pumpkin.

“Shut up.” You told him, sticking your tongue out at him. You sighed as you ran your hands over the sides of the pumpkin. It was just the right shade of orange, perfectly round and not at all lopsided. “Oh, my god. It’s perfect, Calum.”

“Do I need to give you two a moment?” He asked, laughing at you again.

“Didn’t I just tell you to shut up?” You replied, wiping dirt from your jeans as you stood up.

“If you keep being mean to me, I’m not going to pick that pumpkin up for you.”

“I’m sorry, baby.” You told him in a small voice. You jutted your bottom lip out slightly as you went to wrap your arms around his neck. “Forgive me?” You asked, quivering your lip dramatically as you looked up at him through your lashes.

“I don’t know. You hurt my feelings pretty bad with that.” He answered as he wrapped his arms around your waist, linking his fingers together behind your back. A dramatic pout formed on his lips as he started fake sniffling for effect.

“Oh, no.” You cooed as you moved one hand into the hair at the back of his head. “Don’t cry, handsome boy. How ever can I make you forgive me?”

Calum started making obnoxiously loud kissy noises with his mouth, earning a laugh from you and more than a few odd looks from passersby. Your cheeks were starting to hurt from smiling so much, a common problem you’d found yourself facing over the last two and a half years that you’d been dating Calum. You raked your fingers through his hair as you pulled his face down to meet yours, stopping a few inches short.

“One kiss and you’ll forgive me?” You asked, your voice barely above a whisper.

“I guess we’ll have to try it and find out, won’t we?”

“Well, I suppose so.” You answered as you closed the space between your lips.

Calum pulled away after a moment and you noticed the slight red tint that had crept across his cheeks. You absolutely loved being able to have this effect on him. Knowing that you could make him feel anything even close to the way he made you feel always made your heart skip a beat.

“That was one hell of a kiss.” He told you.

“It certainly was.”

“I don’t know if it was enough to fix my hurt feelings, though…”

“Maybe a second kiss?”

“I mean, we can try.” He answered, his smile growing as you bent forward. His lips met yours and you felt him leaning you back just slightly. You tightened your arms around his neck instinctively. Obviously, you trusted Calum, but there was still a part of you that didn’t want to end up in the dirt if something were to happen.

Calum’s grip around your waist was strong and firm as he kissed you. His lips moved against yours in perfect sync. You felt him pull you back up to stand up straight, his lips staying on yours for a few moments.

“My god, that was some real Disney level romance.” You told him, giggling as you ended the kiss.

“Well, you are my princess.” He said with a shrug of his broad shoulders.

The ease in his voice sent your heart into overdrive. You were sure it would burst clean out of your chest if he even thought one more thing like that. It wasn’t lost on you how incredibly lucky you were to have someone like Calum in your life. Knowing that the person standing in front of you was the actual, honest to god love of your life was the greatest feeling in the world.

Calum placed a quick, soft kiss to your forehead before removing his arms from your waist. He bent down to retrieve your perfect pumpkin, grunting quietly as he lifted it.

“Have I ever told you that you have a great butt?” You asked as he set the pumpkin down beside the first one.

He turned to you, a look of mock annoyance on his face. “Oh, you only like me for my butt?” He asked as he turned the wagon around.

“No,” You answered. You linked your hand with his as you began to walk back to the front of the pumpkin patch. “But it is a nice perk.”

“I have a perky butt?”

“Very perky.”

“Good to know.” He laughed.

Once you exited the pumpkin patch you made your way over to the scales. This particular place charged for pumpkins based on weight, so you had to have your pumpkins weighed before you could take them to the counter to buy them. By the scales they had a table full of small pumpkins. You immediately started loading them into the wagon. You got about six in before Calum stopped you.

“Woah, woah, hey now. I said two pumpkins. Not twenty.”

“Well, Duke needs a pumpkin and these are perfectly Duke sized.”

“Duke is one dog, Y/N. He only needs one pumpkin.”

“This is true.” You said, slowly picking up another two and trying to put them into the wagon. You frowned up at Calum when he took them from your hands and placed them back on to the table. “I need those!” You whined.

“Why do you need a thousand tiny pumpkins?” He asked, crossing his arms in front of his chest. You couldn’t help but to think that it was seriously on fair of him to flex his biceps like that right in front of you. Even under his hoodie, his muscles were definitely making their presence known.

“I don’t need a thousand, I only need like ten. Or twelve.”

Calum’s eyes shot open. “Twelve!?” He asked, dropping his hands from his chest. You nodded silently, acutely aware of how loud his voice had gotten. “Why on earth do you need twelve tiny pumpkins?”

“For decoration. We need a few in the living room, the bedroom, the guest room, the kitchen, the bathroom…”

“You want to put pumpkins in the bathroom?”

“Well, yeah. Just one or two on the counter.”

“Why?”

“I just told you, for decoration.”

“We’re decorating the bathroom?”

You couldn’t stop the amused giggle that fell from your lips. “You’ve never lived with a girl before, have you?”

“Mali and my mom never put pumpkins in the bathroom.”

“Well, I am.” You told him matter of factly. You knew that he’d give in, even if he whined about before he did. “Calum, I never go all out for any other holiday. I promise I won’t even put the christmas tree up until you give me written permission. But this is my favorite time of year. Can I please just put one tiny pumpkin in the bathroom?”

Calum sighed and nodded his head, waving his hand flippantly to signal you to get the pumpkins. You let out an excited squeak as you turned around and gathered up a few more pumpkins to add to your wagon. Once you were sure you had enough you grabbed Calum’s hand and walked to the scales. An employee weighed your pumpkins and handed you a slip of paper with your total to take to the cashier at the entrance.

As you approached the cashier you noticed a crate full of pumpkins with a sign attached to it that said “Free to a good home.”

“Why are those ones free?” You asked as you got to the counter.

The employee glanced at the crate before returning her attention to you. “We always give away the extra ugly ones for free because most people don’t want them anyway.”

You stepped closer to the crate to examine the pumpkins in question. They were all quite small and covered in lots and lots of bumps. You picked one up and carried it over to Calum, putting on your best fake pout as you did.

“Absolutely not.” He said before you could even get a word out.

“But, Calum! She just said nobody wants these. If we don’t take him home and love him, nobody will.”

“We already have a dozen pumpkins.”

“Lucky number thirteen!” You said, perking up just slightly.

The employee behind the counter giggled quietly. “You’ve got a point.” She said, raising her eyebrows. “Hey, I’ll tell you what. If you take that one, I’ll give you two of the tiny ones for free.”

Calum groaned, knowing that he was defeated. “Fine.” He said as he pulled his wallet from his back pocket. “Get the ugly pumpkin. Even though we just spent like an hour trying to find pumpkins that weren’t ugly, get the ugly one.”

You placed the pumpkin into the wagon, moving a few of the little ones to make room. Calum paid for your pumpkins and grabbed the handle. You walked to the car and loaded all of your new pumpkins into the backseat. You took care to make sure that they were all secure on the ground while Calum returned your wagon to the cashier.

“I hope you’re happy.” He said as he slid into the driver's seat.

You looked over at him, a wide grin on your face. “I am, baby.” You sighed, linking your hand with his over the center console. “I am so fucking happy right now.”

He returned your smile, his eyes wrinkling at the corners again. “I’m glad. I love you.”

“I love you more.”

“Love me enough not to put vegetables in the bathroom?” He asked.

“Not that much, but real close.”

He laughed as he leaned over the console, kissing you once more before starting the engine to head home.

~~~

If you have any requests, or would like to be tagged in future 5sos fics please let me know!

Tag List: @crownedbyluke @cashtonspicelatte @blue-skies-are-alright @lmao5sosimagines @therainydays4 @rosecth @thesoundsyoumake @kinglyhemmings @a-little-international @harryandthelesbians @lukescherrypie @ashotofblues @youngblood199456 @rexorangecouny @cashton-queen @tothemoonwithclifford @babylon-uncrowned @asht0ns-world @abitloudforanaccousticset

Okay hiiiii, everybody! I just want to take a moment to thank every single person that took time to reach out to me this week. I know that I was definitely acting like a little bitch baby, and I’m sorry. But all of your kind words did not fall on deaf ears. I can’t even begin to let you all know how much your messages mean to me. I’m not going to lie, I’m still not completely in love with this fic, but I worked really hard on it and I decided to share it with you all anyway. Also. Fun fact. It’s snowing in Ohio so it doesn’t even feel like fall anymore but whatever. All of my love to all of you! 

[dancingwithdylan21]

Something Sweet

Summary: Dylan surprises the reader during her favorite time of the year.

Pairing: Daddy!Dylan x Reader

Prompt: “Now you’re just talking crazy.”

~

“We have enough apples to feed a small army. My god.” You lean against your boyfriend’s silver Chevy pickup, chuckling as he loads the last bag into the bed of his truck.

“Between the two of us and each of our growing rascals, they’ll be gone in no time, baby.” Dylan hooks his muscular arm around your neck, then pulls you close to peck your temple.

You and Dylan are having a busy, fun filled day at Smolak Farms. His daughter Maddy and your son Brandon are both having a blast participating in all of the Fall activities that it has to offer. And to be honest so are you, this is hands down your favorite time of year and you can’t wait until it’s Halloween.

“It’s still a lot of apples…” You mutter under your breath, peeling off your jacket to welcome the chill that’s in the air.

“You’ll just have to cook that maple-baked apple chicken dish that I love so much. Preferably everyday...” Your boyfriend’s face beams at the delicious thought as he pats his stomach. 

“You better get your chicken obsession under control, Mr.” You warn poking his firm chest. Then with a cute twirl, you book it to a nearby pond where the kids are feeding a few friendly ducks.

“Now you’re just talking crazy.” The actor grumbles quietly, unable to hide his amused expression. He then makes a beeline to you, Maddy and Brandon.

“You guys tired yet?” Your boyfriend asks the kids with a playful smile. It quickly transforms into an exaggerated frown as they both shake their heads no.

You ignore Dylan’s pretend pout and speak up, “Ok so we picked apples, had cinnamon donuts and apple cider, went on a hayride….” You pause pretending to be stumped. “What are we missing?”

“We fed the ducks!” Maddy chimes in pointing to a few that are floating on the water.

“Can’t forget the ducks.” Dylan’s deep chuckle sends a tingle down your spine.

You mentally berate yourself for the dirty images that pop into your mind, this obviously isn’t the time or place for such naughty ideas. Even though you and Dylan have been together for about three years now, it can still be tough to control yourself sometimes. It seems that your boyfriend is having similar thoughts, you catch him admiring the way your sweater clings to your form and it causes his cheeks to burn.

“We still need pumpkins!” Brandon exclaims to Maddy, the two enthusiastic five year olds are now bouncing with excitement and it makes you giggle.

“Well then come on, guys. Let’s go!” Dylan hoists his daughter up onto his shoulders, his fast legs carrying him ahead of you and Brandon. “Don’t be slow pokes.” He teases back in your direction.

“Oh shush, O’Brien.” You stick your tongue out at him, noticing that Dylan and Maddy are now whispering to each other. “What are you two troublemakers hiding?”

“Nothing!” They answer in unison without turning around. Oh that’s not suspicious at all. You’re about to press them for details but get distracted by the pumpkin patch that comes into view.

“Um…where is everyone?”

“Who?” Your boyfriend quirks an eyebrow, letting his little ball of energy run off into the open space.

“The other people.” You gesture around. “They’re roaming all over the farm except for here.”

“Oh I reserved the pumpkin patch just for us. Apparently you can do that if you ask nicely.”  Your boyfriend smirks lacing his fingers with yours. “Being handsome also helps.”

You burst out laughing, “Well it’s a good thing you’re handsome, handsome.”

“Damn straight, sexy.” Dylan plants a sweet kiss on your lips before leading you in the direction of Maddy and Brandon.

“I found one, mom!” Your son bellows waving you over to an overly large pumpkin.

“Nice one, buddy.“ You crouch down to get a better look. “Isn’t it kinda big though?” Brandon vehemently shakes his head.

“Y/N! Come here!” Maddy calls out before beaming at her dad, she’s visibly thrilled with the pumpkin in front of her and you’re pretty curious as to why.

Once you and Brandon get closer, it becomes clear that Dylan is feeling a little antsy, “What do you think, beautiful?” He asks pointing to Maddy’s pumpkin.

"Good choice.” You bend down to examine it when something reflective catches your attention. “Oh my god.” Your eyes widen when you see a gorgeous, round cut engagement ring sitting on top of it.

Taking a deep breath, Dylan shyly gets down onto one knee and it renders you utterly speechless. You’ve dreamt of this amazing moment so many times and now that it’s here your mind has turned to complete mush. Thankfully, your boyfriend is a mess of nerves himself so he doesn’t seem to notice it.

“Y/N…I was instantly smitten when I first laid eyes on you, I was hopelessly in love the first time that I kissed you and I was officially screwed when I could look back at past regrets with a smile. Every bad choice, every disappointment and every heartbreak has been worth it because they all lead me straight to you. I love you and Brandon more than I could ever express, baby. Will you marry me?”

“Yes!” You exclaim with tears in your eyes. The kids start cheering as you launch yourself into Dylan’s arms, practically knocking you both over. You’re relieved when he regains his balance in time, instead lifting you off of ground.

“We love you too, honey.” You whisper resting your forehead against his.

Masterlist

[ketokaylas]

Very fun trip to the Apple orchard today! We had acomplementary fruit wine tasting, the strawberry wine was amazing. I split a caramel apple with my boyfriend and ate some apple cider donuts 😍. - I admit I had more donuts than I needed but I'm not beating myself up. Each day is a new day to learn something new about myself. I'm learning this whole intuitive eating lifestyle and I know there will be certain foods that I overeat and that's okay. I have faith that in the long run I will find balance. I haven't had an apple cider donut in years. I know next time I won't go as crazy because I'm giving myself permission to eat them. In the past I've always wanted them but didn't allow myself. - I bought a half dozen to bring home and a bottle of strawberry wine. ❤️ Fall is my favorite time of year; the food, the weather, Halloween, pumpkins, corn mazes, hay rides, chilly night walks, everything. #intuitiveeating #mindfuleating #mindfulliving #mindfullness #intuitiveliving #antidiet #bodyacceptance #bodypositivity #foodpeace #peacewithfood #edwarrior #bodypositive #foodfreedom #foodfuel #fuelyourbody #nondiet #haes #healthateverysize #healthjourney #journeytohealth #workinprogress #workingonmyself #healthgoal #findingbalance #foodbalance #peacewithin #nonscalevictory (at Apple Barn Orchard & Winery) https://www.instagram.com/p/BnfOsRHhxD7/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=qaq21rv695va

[xeford2020]

Remembering Our First Hallowe’en

Curt Braden, as the “ghost” of Abraham Lincoln, posing with the carved jack-o’-lanterns at the doorway of the Logan County Courthouse that marked treat stops. (Photo courtesy Susan McCabe) The 40th anniversary of “Hallowe’en in Greenfield Village” seems like a perfect opportunity to reflect upon the first Halloween program in Greenfield Village. I was there with my husband, Curt, in the Logan County Courthouse. With his face covered in white theatrical makeup, he played the “ghost” of Abraham Lincoln for the evening, while I played his wife, Mary Todd. Other “ghosts” were stationed at various other Village buildings, awaiting the young trick-or-treaters who would show up at their doorstep. We all wondered whether it would work, this crazy idea of using the Village as the canvas for a historically-themed Halloween program. As kids filed through the Courthouse that night, my “ghostly” husband handed them each a Lincoln Head penny while he told them, “Here’s a token in remembrance of me.” Some kids gawked at him. Others smiled and circled back again for another penny. Still others scowled and said, “Only a penny?” I honestly remember almost nothing from that night. It was all a blur except for a few snapshots I have, proving we were there. Now, 40 years later, I feel compelled to find out exactly what transpired that night. So, I asked Brian Wilson, our Senior Manager of the Archives and Library, to see if he could dig out the original program description of it (which he did). I also got in touch with a few old friends who had helped plan it and participate in it. What I found was that, while our memories are sketchy and sometimes inconsistent, we all felt that night that we were on a mission, a mission to provide guests with a combination of fun and learning using the rich historical stories that pervade Greenfield Village. The magical quality of being in the Village at night (decades before there were streetlamps) didn’t hurt either.

Description of the Family Halloween Jamboree in the 1981 class catalog / THF610727 In 1981, the program was called the Family Halloween Jamboree and it was one of the many listings in the catalog of Adult Education, Teen, and Children’s Classes organized by the Education Department at the time. After the Greenfield Village schools had closed in 1969, the museum had become a strong advocate of offering educational classes for the general public. By the early 1980s, the class catalog was extensive, including page after page of lectures, tours, and an incredible array of craft classes, like glassblowing, blacksmithing, and tinsmithing. Children’s classes also involved a wide array of different take-home crafts and hands-on opportunities.

Colonial Cooking was a popular Adult Education class held in Clinton Inn (now Eagle Tavern) during the late 1970s. / THF112256 Harold Skramstad’s arrival as President in 1981 provided the catalyst to reimagine a wide variety of new educational programs. Summer Discovery Camps began that year, along with new Member programs. All of these new programs were characterized by a close alignment with our historical figures and stories. The Family Halloween Jamboree was no exception. Jim VanBochove, a graduate student intern that previous summer and a participant in the first Halloween program (and now Director of Organizational Culture at The Henry Ford) explained that, “That was one of the great things in those days—that you could really try some new things. There was support, even if it didn’t turn out.” This program was the brainchild of museum professional Candace Matelic, hired earlier that year as Manager of Adult Education and Children’s Programs. She was helped by her able assistant, Susan Gangwere (now Susan McCabe), a graduate student summer intern like VanBochove who had just recently joined the Education staff. Inspired by Skramstad’s encouragement to be creative, break down old barriers, and try new things, Matelic and Gangwere put their heads together to create each of the elements for this, one of three holiday-related family programs that year.

A colorful and enticing flyer for the 1981 Family Halloween Jamboree. (Image courtesy Donna Braden) From the beginning, the 1981 Family Halloween Jamboree was planned with children in mind—including “hair-raising stories of ghosts and witches,” making Halloween treats, and enjoying a variety of traditional games. In keeping with the focus on the historic nature of Greenfield Village, children were encouraged to come dressed as their favorite historic character, which they would show off in a “parade down a pumpkin-lighted path,” followed by a judged costume contest with prizes. Parents were encouraged to dress up for the night as well. The evening cost $7.00 per child, while accompanying adults were free.

This cover of the 1982 class catalog shows a portion of the 150 jack-o’-lanterns that volunteers had carved for the 1981 Family Halloween Jamboree. / THF610728 Hay wagons took guests on rides from Town Hall through the Covered Bridge, around the loop and back to the Village Green. On the way, they encountered spooky characters, like the Grim Reaper and the Headless Horseman. Back at Town Hall, they could partake of cider and donuts, and bob for apples. A highlight of the evening was that guests could walk to several trick-or-treat stops in and around the Green. White-faced “ghosts” of historical figures connected with Greenfield Village buildings passed out treats that were specifically themed to each building or character. At the Courthouse, it was Lincoln Head pennies; at Stephen Foster Memorial (now the Sounds of America Gallery), VanBochove, as the “ghost” of Stephen Foster, handed out kazoos while singing excerpts of more “ethereal” Stephen Foster songs like “Beautiful Dreamer” and “I Dream of Jeanie with the Light Brown Hair.” Carved jack-o-lanterns, placed at the doorways, marked each treat stop.

Curt and I pause for a snapshot before heading to the Village for the big evening, 1981. Before the days of a department that researched and created historical clothing for Greenfield Village staff, I did my best to dig out some (rather historically inaccurate) vintage clothing from my own closet to wear for the evening. (Photo courtesy Donna Braden) This one-night Jamboree attracted some 300 people. As VanBochove recalled, “We all thought that was HUGE. And there were many moving parts so lots of learnings.” Susan McCabe concurred that it was a great way to learn about the logistics of Village experiences, like how to move people through, how many supplies to have on hand, and how to get all those pumpkins carved!

Curt having his white theatrical makeup applied before the big night, 1981. (Photo courtesy Donna Braden) Building upon the success of this first program, the next year’s program was expanded. Now costing $5.00 per person, it was held on two successive nights. The modest pumpkin-lit path for the children’s costume-judging parade now extended through many of the streets of the Village, with an accompanying map “to tell you the whereabouts of the ghost and spirits we expect to join us.” Candace Matelic remembers that two educational assistants “did nothing all night but keep the pumpkins lit, and there were hundreds of them.”

Description of the 1982 Family Halloween Jamboree, explaining the new navigation through the Village by pumpkin-lit paths and a map / THF610735 One goal of these early programs was to attract new audiences, people who did not ordinarily come to Greenfield Village. As Matelic recalls, “We reached people from all backgrounds…many of whom were coming to Greenfield Village for the first time.” It was also a way to attract new Members by offering them first pass at signing up. The popularity of the 1982 Family Halloween Jamboree was greatly aided by the Tylenol scare of that year, in which cyanide-laced acetaminophen was found placed on drugstore shelves and sold. This high-profile crime eventually led to the introduction of child-proof containers and tough Federal laws aimed at punishing those who tampered with drugs. No evidence of contaminated Halloween candy was ever found that year and, since that time, stories like these have become the stuff of urban legend. But, in 1982, the scare was real, parents were worried about letting their kids go trick-or-treating through neighborhoods, and that year’s Family Halloween Jamboree in Greenfield Village received a big boost in attendance. Beyond this, Matelic thinks that these early programs were exceptionally unique because, “We clearly touched a chord in providing a safe and memorable family experience in those early years, in response to a community need. I like to think of it as a gift to the community. It was fun, interactive, and welcoming. We had fun and that let visitors have fun. We made a connection to a beloved American tradition and started a new relationship to the community.”

By 2018, the year of this photograph, “Hallowe’en in Greenfield Village” had become a mega-event that lasted 11 nights and attracted 70,000 guests. These two early programs laid the groundwork for today’s extravaganza that thousands anticipate every year. Why does it remain as popular as ever? Having spent time at many treat stations over the years, VanBochove remarks that, “it has always amazed me that even with the thousands of guests who come on any evening, almost everyone has a sense that the program is just for them, that they are there with family, and that this is a special memory that only we can help create.” Matelic, who has worked at several museums since those early days and mentored hundreds of students pursuing museum careers, reflects that, “While the focus and contents (and size and length) have broadened over the years, the program is still touching hearts and minds, offering an opportunity for generations to continue making cherished family memories.” Do you have a cherished memory of the 1981 Family Halloween Jamboree in Greenfield Village? Donna R. Braden, Senior Curator and Curator of Public Life at The Henry Ford, would like to thank Candace Tangorra Matelic, Ph.D., Susan Gangwere McCabe, Jim VanBochove, and Curt Braden for their willingness to share their memories of this groundbreaking program.

#1 Ford Daily | Đại lý – Showroom ủy quyền Ford Việt Nam 2019 Ford Daily là showroom, đại lý Ford lớn nhất Việt Nam: Chuyên phân phối xe ô tô FORD như: EcoSport ✅ Everest ✅ Explorer ✅ Focus ✅ Ranger… info@forddaily.com 6A Đường Trần Hưng Đạo, Phường Phạm Ngũ Lão, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh 711240 0901333373 https://forddaily.com/ https://forddaily.com/xe/ https://forddaily.com/dai-ly/ https://forddaily.com/bang-gia/ https://forddaily.com/tra-gop/ #forddaily #dailyfordhcm #fordshowroomhcm https://www.google.com/maps/place/Ford+Daily/@10.7693359,106.696211,15z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x0:0x1f188a05d927f4ff!8m2!3d10.7693359!4d106.696211

[thisislizheather]

September Shenanigans 2020

The leaves are starting to fall, the colder winds are coming, the pumpkins are starting to appear and I’ve never wanted an October more than I do right now. This time of year stirs up so much inside of me, I can barely breathe. However you enjoy this season, I hope you take some time to bask in these autumn days that are typically so fleeting. Here’s what went down last month.

I recapped what happened off of my summer list.

I made an autumn list of things that I’d like to do this season.

I cannot stop playing this John Legend song on repeat. Especially in recent days.

Some other songs I have on repeat: Never Let Me Go by Alok & Bruno Martini & Zeeba, Savage Love by Jawsh 685 & Jason Derulo and that old Sarah McLachlan song Ice Cream for some reason.

Absolutely in love with the limited edition apple pie flavoured Kit Kats. Unreal.

I made these pumpkin pie overnight oats and they were a big hit. Great autumn breakfast idea.

I ate at Buvette and their snails were definitely the highlight.

I saw the movie The Car and it was phenomenal. You have to see it. The dialogue is atrocious, but a young, smokeshow James Brolin? Christ, he can get it. It’s a perfect bad movie.

I went to Gramercy Tavern and of course that place never disappoints. The service, the food, everything is impeccable. Some photos below.

Above Photo: Of course they have their own sanitizer

Above Photo: The Harvest Daiquiri with Frozen El Dorado 8 yr Rum, Green Chartreuse, Caradonna Farms Apple Cider, Lime

Above Photo: Chilled Corn Soup with Pickled Cauliflower, Beets, Avocado

Above Photo: Campanelle Bolognese with Kale, Basil, Pecorino

Above Photo: Tavern Bacon & Cheddar Burger with Smoked Onion Sauce, Duck Fat Potato Chips

Something new: did you know that Sephora has in-store rewards available that are different from the rewards shown on their website? Something to check out near the front cashier the next time you’re in a Sephora.

New favourite potato chips: Torres Selecta Black Truffle.

I bought the Mario Badescu Drying Lotion again because it’s such a great product for calming down acne and one bottle lasts at least six months or so.

A great piece about the arts scene in New York City right now.

I rarely listen to podcasts, but I listened to the Conan O’Brien episode of the Michelle Obama podcast and it was great. The episode is about marriage and I liked it so much because I love hearing about how couples first met and fell for one another.

With SNL returning this weekend, I rewatched one of my favourite sketches in recent memory.

As with every other person on earth this month, I watched The Social Dilemma on Netflix and then immediately deleted all the games off of my phone. I know the whole message was to delete Instagram and Facebook, but I’ve never had Facebook on my phone (what am I, 90?) and I truly don’t go on Instagram that much (not by choice, I have a shite battery that lasts about eight minutes a day).

This girl helping senior dogs is an absolute angel on earth.

Fighting ever urge in my body to immediately buy this emerald beauty.

I started watching Girlfriends and even though the pilot is rooooough (as most pilots are), it’s an all right show. It’s insane that Sex And The City basically stole this entire premise. I did, however, stop watching because all of the women are so wildly tiny, it warps my brain to sit and stare at skinny women for long periods of time.

I bought this scalp massager and holy hell, it’s incredible. It elevates a shower times a thousand.

I tried a sample of Fab Pharma’s Rescue Mask and it’s pretty great. It’s weird to not wash a mask off yes, but your skin feels amazing in the morning after use.

My friend Dusty had his movie reviewed by Roger Ebert’s website which is so huge and amazing. Wildly proud.

I started watching Sister, Sister on Netflix and Lisa is the greatest character of all time.

The new autumn candle at Trader Joe’s? Honeycrisp Apple! Already bought! Already sold out! Will I light it or just keep it to smell every so often? None of your business.

Another great New Yorker cover.

I was fortunate enough to eat at Atoboy (thank you Katie & Greg!) and it was perfection. I’ve never eaten tuna so heavenly. Such a wonderful meal and the service especially was warm as hell.

A roasted oyster cheat sheet for NYC, if you should find yourself in need.

A great piece talking about how people make up voices for their dogs.

I rewatched Grease and I can’t believe how often I forget how good the music is in that movie. Every song smashes.

One of my favourite restaurants in Astoria, Mars, opened for lunch recently, very grateful.

REVELATION: Not drinking before bed gives you a crazy, deep, restful sleep. How on earth did I not remember this?

I finally bought those Aerie bike shorts I’ve wanted for months and they’re incredible. Bike shorts should always be this damn soft.

Finally ate at Arte Cafe on the Upper West Side and loved it.

I visited the Krispy Kreme flagship in Times Square and it was pretty great. Most locations in every suburban city have glass windows where you see the donuts being made, so I didn’t get the huge appeal?

I may or may not have indulged in some of the seasonal desserts at Comfortland in Astoria, I won’t tell you details because they weren’t anything amazing. Honestly, nothing compares to the apple fritters at San Remo’s in Etobicoke.

I watched the Surviving R. Kelly sequel on Netflix and it didn’t really have any new information, which makes sense because there hasn’t even been a trial yet.

I also watched all of season one and some of season two of Twin Peaks (for the first time) and I have some thoughts. First things first, the pilot is incredible. But… why is the background/theme music so terrible? It never matches any of the scenes in tone and it just leaves me confused most times. Some parts are so fucking off and bad (acting-wise, script-wise) that I literally googled certain scenes to see if they were supposed to be funny or if I was missing something. What the fuck is with all of the dancing? And THIS scene? What in the good holy fuck?? UGH, and then David Lynch SHOWS UP IN THE SHOW? Kill me. The entire series should’ve lasted one season. I can officially say that I don’t give one shit about who the fuck killed Laura Palmer, she’s the luckiest character of them all to be dead. Blow me, Lynch.

Hot tip: wine bottle as a ravioli maker!

Neve Campbell is definitely onboard for the next Scream!

Best tweets of the month can be found over here.

Some things that I’m looking forward to doing this month: I must decorate, I really want to make this fall kale salad that sounds incredible, I’m planning a visit to Sleepy Hollow for the day, if I can find the time I really want to try these vegan burgers, I need to finalize the details for my costume this year, MUST BUY these winter stamps, I cannot wait to get my hands on these again, I’m intending on doing my 31-days-of-Halloween celebration yet again (which means that I’ll try to do at least one spookily themed thing each day), and I will definitely be watching some of these 90s sitcoms Halloween episodes. Also, I’m not a huge cronut fan but the flavour this month is a combination of cappuccino and hazelnut! Already pre-ordered.

If you’ve got any interest in reading last month’s roundup, you can see what went down in August over here.

[theunstuffedpepper]

Sunday 9/10 Sunday was a pretty lazy, very fall-esque day. First thing, I headed to the grocery store to shop for the week before the crowds got too crazy. Then B and I went apple picking - hooray! We came home with a nice big basket of fresh gala apples. The farm also had a bakery, where we watched them make some apple cider donuts. It looked (& smelled) amazing! When we got home, we did some chores, and I baked a banana bread using olive oil and honey rather than butter and sugar. It came out pretty nice! I also prepped some stuffed baked apples, but we haven't had those yet. The big Sunday pot roast dinner I made had us too full for dessert. 😍 Today is Monday September 11, and being in NYC, it's always a strange day for me. Lots of feels. Lots of heightened security. Meh. To all my Florida friends, I've been praying for you and I hope you've made it through the storm well so far. Stay strong and stay safe! 💛

[zihaaaa]

Salaam :D Leaf, plant, seashell, breeze, bird, campfire, energy & summer!

wa’alaikum assalam! awwwwwww thanks for all these awesome asks! :) Leaf: What’s your favourite season?

Winter! Snow, beanies, coffee, ahhhh, I love everything about it!Plant: What, in your opinion, is your best aspect?

Hmm, this is pretty tough to answer without sounding conceited LOL. But I guess I’d say my personality is perhaps my best aspect? Don’t get me wrong, I appreciate my looks because they are all me, uniquely me, and that is beautiful alhamdulillah. But I’m grateful for the personality Allah has blessed me with, that He has allowed for me to develop through the exposure to certain people, places, and things. :) I’m comfortable with who I am, and who I try to be (aka a better person, hopefully better). Seashell: What’s a sound that soothes you?

Birds chirping in the early morning! momma always said they chirp at the time of fajr as a means of praising Allah in their own special way, just as we get up and pray in the early morning. I mean, idk how accurate or true it is haha, but it’s a beautiful thought, so yeah, I’ve always loved hearing them chirp away as the sun rises!

Breeze: What’s your favourite dessert food?

Fresh baked apple cider donuts covered in cinnamon sugar, mmmmmmm!

Bird: If you could fly, where would you fly to?

Right now? Right this very instant, if I could fly, I would fly to Pakistan. I’ve been missing my fam so darn much lately. God, I cannot say enough about how lovely they all are. My momma’s side of the fam, specifically. And y’all know how amazing my momma is, mashaAllah tabarakAllah. They are the most generous, kind, loving, compassionate, and good hearted people ever, I promise you. I could tell you a gazillion stories and incidents! They are a light in my life alhamdulillah, and sometimes, video calls just don’t seem to be enough. I wanna give them my love in person, y’know? sigh, soon inshaAllah, I hope! Also, my uncle is in the UAE, but he’s totally included in this, so I would flap my theoretical wings to the UAE, and then head over to Pakistan LOL 

Campfire: What’s your favourite childhood memory?

OMG I have so many favorite childhood memories! Can I share my favorite traumatizing childhood memory? Cause I got a lot of those too haha. Okay, so, when we were in Brooklyn, we had older Pakistani kids who lived in the basement of the house. Basically, the house we lived in was separated and partitioned off into three parts. The basement, the first floor, and the second floor. We lived on the second floor. We used to play outside with the older kids often and our families were pretty close. One day, we were playing and our moms were chatting on the steps when the older kids told us there was a carnival within walking distance and they wanted to head over to it in a litte bit. I was 4 years old, and as soon as I heard carnival, I clutched the leg of the older guy and asked him if I could come along too! He looked at his siblings and looked down at me and said ‘okay, go change your shoes and i’ll take you and [my big bro]’. Idk why I had to change my shoes, but I ran upstairs as fast as my 4 year old self could, and when I ran back down……..

……….they were nowhere to be seen. Not my older neighbors, and not my bro. I wailed, I raged, I wept. This was my first taste of deception [dun dun dun].

I laugh about it now, but that was also the first time my little heart was broken, my trust shattered to smithereens, looool.

anywaaaaays, onto the next one, haha!

Energy: Pick one word to describe your life.

Blessed. (alhamdulillah)

Summer: What’s the craziest thing you’ve ever done?

Two summers ago, I was in a leadership program at college, and the training included a day out doing leadership/trust building exercises and later, a high ropes course. Yo, the high ropes course was CRAZY. It was so high up and all that kept you in the air was a rope held by a person all the way down below on the ground. You had to climb up a wooden tree trunk thing (soooooo high up) and there were different kinds of courses, some where you had to balance on wobbly wooden planks, other where you’d walk across a thin rope with only other thin ropes dangling above you to grab on to, etc.) It was an awesome experience alhamdulillah, and I really truly did feel like a ninja! The tour leader later told me I was a natural, and that my moves were graceful, balanced, and better than most first timers (hehe). This isn’t even that crazy, I know, but it was something I’d never done before and I’d totally do it again!

[londonvnewyork]

Lots of cooking and baking going on around here lately! The boy and I both really enjoy being in the kitchen. Normally the boy does the cooking and I do the baking - I love cookies and brownies and pie and breads and tarts and muffins... all of it! And the routine and focus baking takes.

Recent products from our kitchen:

-apple cider glazed donuts (had to use apple juice as the UK doesn’t really offer non alcoholic apple cider!)

-the boy making us “healthier” lasagne - we swapped a few pasta layers for layers of butternut squash, eggplant and zucchini to get more veggies in there - it was delicious!

-maple roasted walnuts - when I lived in NYC I used to buy small bags of these in the nut section downstairs at the Union Square Whole Foods. Crazy me - they’re so easy to make, and the house smells amazing while they roast!

-baked panko crusted Mexican shrimp for homemade tacos

-brownies - embarrassed to say this is only the second time in my baking life that I’ve made brownies completely from scratch rather than from a box mix - they’re delicious! I used this recipe:

-first apple pie of the season using my mom’s recipe (and an amazing silicon pie crust protector that avoids the crusts being over cooked!)

-roasted and stuffed acorn squash with sausage meat, baby kale, yellow onion, bread crumbs and chopped walnuts, and Parmesan - I’d recommend! Based on this recipe:

I can’t wait for autumn to really get going. I love autumn baking and flavours!

[teacherscollegeadmissions]

How will you spend your time in NYC during the holiday season? Whether you are visiting for the weekend or live in the Tri-State area, the Enrollment Services family at TC have a few suggestions as to how you can spend your time during this joyous season in our one-of-a-kind city! From enjoying hot chocolate and donuts in Bryant Park’s Winter Village to taking in the beautiful lights on Columbia University’s main campus, we do it all. So, scroll down and check out our top picks for NYC activities during the holiday season!

Brad: When it begins to snow in New York, I love walking through Columbia University’s campus at night and seeing all the trees covered in bright lights.

Alexii: I love going to the Christmas markets and Christmas pop-up bars. Miracle on 9th Street is my favorite!

Ralph: I have always wanted to see the Rockettes Christmas Spectacular and finally saw them after all these years. It is a definite “must see” if you have the opportunity. It is truly is a spectacular show.

Simone: Whenever I have a free week in the city, but especially during the holiday season, I love getting the opportunity to see live shows. Last year, I snagged incredible 4th-row seats to Regina Spektor at Radio City Music Hall!

Ana Lissette: I love going to Bryant Park to ice skate and drink some hot chocolate.

Niki: It wouldn’t be the holiday season in NYC without a trip to the infamous Rockefeller Center! The lights and holiday decorations are stunning and it’s no surprise people come from all over the world just to experience it! I also make a point to check out the Saks Fifth Avenue holiday windows and light show right across the street!

Ashley: Each year, I HAVE to hop on the Christmas Lights Bus Tour! This is a lesser-known way to celebrate the season, and it’s amazing! You enjoy a comfy ride all the way to Dyker Heights, Brooklyn– a neighborhood famous for their crazy Christmas lights! (featured on many TV shows!) After walking through the neighborhood with a tour guide who knows all of the fun stories and secrets, you’ll stop for authentic cannolis and hot chocolate to warm up, then ride back to Manhattan watching classic holiday specials!

Jannatul: I like small, quiet holiday times with the family myself, but if I had to pick a fun holiday activity, I would have to say doing a dinner in the city alongside a broadway show.

Deanna: There’s nothing like visiting the Winter Village at Bryant Park during the holiday season! They have a ton of cute shops and places to grab a quick bite. A must for me every year is enjoying a warm apple cider with a cinnamon stick.

Isabelle: I love listening to the street performers in the subway singing holiday carols, and some even start playing the violin along with it!

Angela: I’m definitely a fan of the Union Square Holiday Market!

Ellaine: My favorite thing to do during the holiday season is the post-holiday store sales. Discounts for everything and typically the decorations are still up so I can also enjoy the view.

Stephanie: I love going to Rolf’s Bar & Restaurant to marvel at their amazing Christmas decorations. Eat some delicious German food and take Instagram-worthy pics–double win!