Have you listened to “The Monster Mash” yet this month? I I listened to it for the first time this season on Tuesday night at a Halloween event. I am kind of embarrassed to admit that it took so long. It’s Thursday and that means the time has arrived for me to offer five random topics that you most likely don’t care about. Let’s get started…

Sunrise of 2026 – What is a way to make Monday a little better? Well, this week it was a gorgeous sunrise. While riding the bus out to Cheney at around 7 a.m., the spectacle in the sky became extremely pronounced when we took the Medical Lake exit. The mix of colors was dazzling as it looked like the sky was on fire in a peaceful sense (if that makes sense). I took a break from my phone to truly appreciate the beautiful scene.

The sunrise on Monday, October 19, 2026, was brilliant. I took this photo right outside of Medical Lake.

Halloween Costumes – The stress of finding Halloween costumes for the kids was relieved on Saturday night. We attended a birthday party in Coeur d’Alene and then went to the local Spirit knowing there wouldn’t be a better time to snag costumes. It took too long to find our winners (and way too much money) but Sloan and Beau are happy with what they picked out. Stay tuned for later this month when I reveal what they chose.

My wife is definitely NOT the world’s biggest Halloween fan but she still humored the photo op at the Spirit in Coeur d’Alene.

Pumpkinfest – I took Beau to Brick West Breweing this past Sunday for its annual Pumpkinfest. The brewery places hundreds of pumpkins around its outdoor gathering space while offering entertainment such as a petting zoo, live music, and a bouncy house. While Beau jumped himself into oblivion, I just enjoyed the beautiful day without even the need for a beer.

I took Beau to Brick West Brewing for Pumpkinfest this past Sunday.

Donuts With Dad – You might have seen this photo already on my social media channels so my apologies if it is redundant. But I can’t resist giving some space to the annual St. Mary Catholic School Donuts With Dad event. For whatever reason the kids were especially excited this year and that made taking the time off work to attend even more worth it. I had fun eating Krispy Kreme glazed donuts with Sloan and Beau while talking to the other dads. It is also interesting to watch my kids interact with their classmates. Get ready Sidney, Muffins With Mom is next!

It was once again an honor to attend Donuts With Dad at St. Mary Catholic School (Spokane Valley) with Sloan and Beau.

Halloween Movies – Last Friday evening we had a family movie night as we watched “Halloweentown.” You might be surprised to know that it was the first time I had ever seen the film despite the kids’ familiarity with it and the ease with which my wife was quoting it. When the kids were asleep I watched “Obsession” which was very disturbing and violent. From a redeeming standpoint, the movie took a pretty common theme and somehow made it unique.

“Halloweentown” came out in 1998. It took me 28 years to finally see it.

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That will wrap things up for tonight. Lots of Halloween activities are taking place this weekend so I hope everyone can enjoy and stay safe. Don’t Blink.