As fall foliage turns vibrant and crisp, we at Green Acres Landscape, Inc. are excited to see all the kids in costumes once again! Halloween is such a fun time for community, creativity, and, of course, plenty of treats. We look forward to seeing all the costumes and the joyful spirit that this holiday brings.
Let’s Keep Everyone Safe While Celebrating
Halloween night is a special event for children and families, but it also calls for extra vigilance. Here are some helpful tips to ensure everyone stays safe:
How Drivers Can Stay Aware:
- Reduce Speed: Drive slowly in residential neighborhoods and around busy trick-or-treat routes.
- Watch for Costumed Pedestrians: Kids may be harder to see in dark costumes, so stay alert and watch for children crossing streets or walking along sidewalks.
- Use Your Headlights: Make sure your headlights are on early in the evening to improve visibility.
- Avoid Distractions: Stay off your phone and keep your focus on the road, especially during peak trick-or-treat hours.
How Parents and Children Can Stay Safe:
- Use Reflective Gear and Costumes with Bright Colors: Make sure children are visible to drivers by adding reflective tape or carrying flashlights.
- Stay in Well-Lit Areas: Stick to familiar neighborhoods and sidewalks rather than shortcuts through dark or unfamiliar areas.
- Walk in Groups: There’s safety in numbers—encourage children to walk with friends or adults.
- Cross at Crosswalks: Always use designated crosswalks and look both ways before crossing the street.
- Check Treats: Parents, inspect all treats before allowing children to eat them.
Treat Yourself! – Recipes for a Cozy Halloween Night
To keep warm and festive, here are two delicious recipes: hot apple cider and Halloween-themed baked goods.
Hot Apple Cider Ingredients:
- 4 cups apple cider
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 4 whole cloves
- Orange slices (optional)
- Honey or maple syrup to taste
Instructions:
- Pour the apple cider into a pot and add cinnamon sticks and cloves.
- Heat over medium-low heat until steaming, but do not boil.
- Let simmer for 10-15 minutes for flavors to meld.
- Remove spices, add honey or maple syrup if desired.
- Serve warm with orange slices for a festive touch!
Pumpkin Spice Cookies Ingredients:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup softened butter
- ½ cup sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup canned pumpkin
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, pumpkin spice, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, beat butter, sugar, and brown sugar until creamy.
- Add egg, pumpkin, and vanilla, mixing well.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients.
- Drop spoonfuls onto baking sheets and bake for 12-15 minutes until golden.
- Let cool and enjoy your festive treats!
We wish everyone a safe, fun, and spook-tacular Halloween! Remember, community safety is a shared responsibility. Happy Halloween from all of us at Green Acres Landscape, Inc.!