Every year, I notice more and more how my attitude toward autumn holidays is changing. If I used to associate Halloween exclusively with noisy groups or some kind of bustle, now it's something completely different. For me, the end of October is, first and foremost, an opportunity to slow down and create a space around me that's pleasant to simply be in 🕯.

When it starts to get dark outside at 5 p.m. and a cold wind knocks on the glass, I take the warmest clothes and decorations from the top shelves. I arrange small orange and white pumpkins 🎃 on the windowsill, hang garlands with soft amber light, and place candles scented with cinnamon, cloves, and dried wood. The house instantly fills with a completely different, almost fairytale-like atmosphere ✨.

My favorite time is late evening. I pour myself a cup of hot herbal tea with thyme, wrap myself in a blanket, and simply watch the candlelight dance on the walls. There's no mysticism or fear in it, only deep peace. Halloween reminds me that even in the darkest and coldest time of year, we have the power to create our own inner light and share it with our loved ones 🍁.