By the time you read this column, you will have already survived Halloween. Hopefully, even if you were unable to purchase the “must have” costume this year, you used it as an excuse to get creative and save money. We never purchased Halloween costumes when I was a kid. In fact, it didn’t even cross our minds as an option, but I’m sure we had just as much fun as cowboys, ghosts, witches, scarecrows, and princesses, to name a few. With a trip to a thrift store and a little work and ingenuity, the possibilities were endless. Seeing who could make the most creative costume only added to the fun, so if you haven’t dabbled in make-it-yourself costumes, give it a try next year.

With Halloween in the review mirror, it’s time to start thinking about Thanksgiving and what it really means. Thanksgiving is a time to be with family and friends, to put differences aside, and celebrate. In 1621 the first Thanksgiving was celebrated between the Pilgrims and the Native Americans to give thanks for the bounty of the fall harvest. They prepared a huge feast including a wide variety of animals and fowl, as well as fruits and vegetables they had grown. This early celebration was the forerunner of today's holiday tradition, and a reminder to celebrate with what you have, not lament what you don’t, and to give thanks for your blessings, whatever they may be.

Whether you are hosting or traveling to be with friends or family, keep in mind the reason behind the holiday. If you are traveling, the experts are predicting a very busy season this year, so plan ahead, be flexible, and go with realistic expectations. Whatever you decide to do, think of it as an adventure and enjoy the ups, downs, and everything in between. But most importantly, have a happy and humble Thanksgiving. Safe travels.