Ghosts, Pumpkins, and Prose: A Creative Journey
Ghosts, Pumpkins, and Prose: A Creative Journey
Exploring Iconic Films, Nostalgic Classics, and My Path as a Writer
Halloween has always been a time for transformation, and over the years, I’ve stepped into some unforgettable costumes. One Halloween in Midlothian, I transformed into Dracula. I remember the excitement of donning the classic cape and the thrill of trying to perfect my fanged grin. My family had gone all out, even procuring dental material to keep the fangs in place. But as I eagerly clamped down on the plastic teeth, they didn’t quite fit as intended. Instead of striking fear into the hearts of my classmates, I ended up blowing out the powder they had given me, leaving me looking less like a fearsome vampire and more like a confused ghoul. Yet, it didn’t matter; the class parade was a delight, filled with laughter and the camaraderie of young trick-or-treaters celebrating the spooky season.
Fast forward a few years, and I found myself dressing as The Undertaker during his "American Badass" era. With leather, sunglasses, and a bandana, I embraced that rebellious biker persona, walking alongside my nieces as they collected candy. It was a fun twist on Halloween, allowing me to embody someone larger than life. What surprised me was how welcoming the neighborhood felt, even as the crowds had diminished since that pre-9/11 spirit. Adults would wave me over to take some candy, reminding me that Halloween could still bring out the kid in everyone, no matter your age.
Then there was the time I became The Crow, inspired by the haunting film of the same name. Dressed in all black with dramatic face paint, I felt a deep connection to the character's themes of loss and rebirth. The mood of that Halloween night transported me to a different world, one where I could fully embrace the character and the dark, brooding energy it brought. Like Dracula, The Crow embodied a depth that resonated with me, tapping into emotions that linger just below the surface.
While I sometimes think about dressing up again, I haven’t felt that mood return yet. Each character I’ve embodied reflects different stages of my life and facets of my personality. Dracula and The Crow evoke a certain darkness, while The Undertaker represents strength and resilience. Halloween continues to hold a special place in my heart, reminding me of the magic that happens when we step into someone else’s shoes—even if I haven’t found the motivation to do it again just yet.
This year, Halloween brought a delightful blend of nostalgia and new memories. My nephew embraced the spirit of the night with a Bojack Horseman mask, a quirky nod to a beloved character. He ventured out with my brother, his dad, and a friend, riding through our subdivision in a golf cart—likely from his friend’s family—a fun twist on trick-or-treating that added a festive flair. The atmosphere was lively, with our usual crowd of about a dozen trick-or-treaters slightly swelling as the evening unfolded.
Back at home, the celebration continued with a delicious supper of combos: Italian sausage, Italian beef, peppers, and big deli buns. The smell of the savory meal filled the air, creating a cozy environment that invited laughter and storytelling. As we gathered around the table, I couldn't help but reminisce about my own Halloween experiences—how each costume, from Dracula to The Crow, allowed me to explore different facets of my personality.
Watching my nephew enjoy his Halloween adventure reminded me of the magic of the holiday. Each year, whether through costumes or shared meals, Halloween offers us a chance to connect, create memories, and embrace the joy of transformation. It may not have been my year to dress up, but the warmth of family and the spirit of Halloween enveloped me, making it a night to remember.
As she stepped into the brightly lit room, a wave of anticipation washed over her. Today was the day she would finally embrace the Halloween spirit, and she couldn’t wait to see what Fayla had in store for her transformation. Her heart raced with excitement as she approached Fayla, who was already surrounded by shimmering fabrics and twinkling lights, her ethereal aura illuminating the space.
“Ready for some magic?” Fayla grinned, her eyes sparkling mischievously.
With a nod, she took a deep breath, feeling the familiar comfort of her daily attire: a women's short-sleeve top paired with capris that ended just below her knees. Her socks were tucked into her sandals, a quirky choice that made her smile. Black eyeliner adorned her eyes, accentuating their natural beauty, while a glossy layer of purple lip gloss added a playful touch. It was an everyday look, but today, it would serve as the perfect base for something extraordinary.
“Let’s channel a female version of The Crow,” Fayla suggested, clapping her hands together. Instantly, a black leather jacket materialized in a swirl of shimmering light, adorned with feather-like designs that seemed to dance as she lifted it. “This will give you a hauntingly beautiful vibe!”
As Fayla draped the jacket over her shoulders, she felt the leather mold perfectly to her form, as if it had been crafted just for her. Then, with a flick of her wrist, a flowing, tattered black dress appeared, billowing like a shadow around her. It captured the essence of mystery and resilience, making her feel both ethereal and powerful.
Next came the makeup. Fayla conjured a palette of deep colors, expertly applying dark, dramatic eyeliner to create a smoky effect that made her eyes pop. A deep, midnight blue lipstick appeared in Fayla’s hand, completing the look and giving her a fierce, otherworldly aura. As she caught a glimpse of herself in the mirror, she marveled at the transformation—she looked both powerful and beautiful, a true representation of the dark heroine she was embodying.
“Don’t forget the accessories!” Fayla chimed, and with a wave of her hand, fingerless gloves and combat boots adorned with silver accents appeared, fitting seamlessly as she slid them on. Fayla then presented a small, ornate paintbrush that twinkled with magic, symbolizing the character's artistic spirit.
Stepping back to admire the final look, she couldn’t help but feel a surge of confidence. “I feel amazing!” she exclaimed, twirling in her new costume, the fabric swirling around her like shadows in the night.
With a final touch, Fayla sprinkled a hint of shimmering dust over her, enhancing the luminous quality that made her look like she had stepped straight out of a dark fairy tale.
“Are you ready to show the world your dark side?” Fayla asked, a satisfied smile on her face.
“Absolutely!” she replied, excitement bubbling within her. It was time to embrace the night, to celebrate the spirit of Halloween as a fierce and beautiful version of The Crow.
She stepped into Fayla’s magical realm, the air shimmering with promise. After her transformation was complete, she paused to admire her new look in the mirror. The costume flowed around her, embodying both mystery and elegance. A thrilling rush surged through her as she recognized the fierce power of the character she had become—a true reflection of her evolving identity.
With a satisfied smile, she glanced around the enchanting space and noticed a floating camera hovering nearby. Curiosity sparked as she approached it. Beside the camera was a cushioned chair, inviting her to take a seat. Settling into the soft embrace of the chair, she reveled in the magic of Fayla's realm, feeling a sense of fullness in this moment of transformation.
As she looked into the camera, she felt a wave of excitement, ready to share her thoughts. “This Halloween season, I’ve been revisiting classic films, and Ghostbusters has truly captured my attention once more. It’s always the first movie I watch with my mom because it’s a family favorite and the perfect blend of comedy and supernatural fun.
“What started off as an idea by Dan Aykroyd, who practically considers it a documentary, was brought to life by three SNL alumni and a younger Ernie Hudson. Ghostbusters does even more than what Star Wars did at the time; it featured its own mania within the movie itself. What makes Ghostbusters stand out is how well it balances humor with the eerie elements of the supernatural. The writers, many of whom came from SNL, had really honed their craft by then. SNL can sometimes feel like a ‘throw spaghetti at the wall’ approach, but Ghostbusters came along when they had a great sense of how to combine humor and supernatural themes in a seamless way.
“Ghostbusters channels the spirit of the Marx Brothers' comedic chaos, blending humor with larger-than-life personalities. Like the Marx Brothers, who turned their antics into a delightful free-for-all, the Ghostbusters navigate supernatural mayhem with quick wit and camaraderie. In many ways, Venkman embodies the Groucho of the team, his laid-back charm and irreverent humor mirroring Groucho’s iconic style. Just as Groucho used his sharp tongue to tackle absurdities, Venkman employs sarcasm to confront paranormal chaos. Both characters possess a certain swagger, often finding themselves at the center of the comedic action. Ultimately, Ghostbusters combines sharp dialogue, outrageous situations, and memorable characters, evoking that classic Marx Brothers charm and reminding us that laughter can transform fear into joy."
She took a moment, adjusting in her chair as the spirit of nostalgia lingered in the air, and then continued. 'With that delightful experience behind us, let’s move on to Ghostbusters 2, which revisits the beloved characters we adored in the first film, but with a slightly different tone that leans into the trials of life after their initial success. The film opens with Peter Venkman feeling insecure about his role, showcasing a more vulnerable side compared to his previous bravado. While the comedy remains, it struggles to find the same balance between humor and supernatural tension, often leaning more heavily on slapstick moments than the witty banter that defined its predecessor.
“Yet, the sequel introduces new energy through characters like Janosz, played by Peter MacNicol, who adds a unique flavor of quirky humor reminiscent of classic comedy. The memorable scene where the Statue of Liberty comes to life captures both the whimsy and unease that the film evokes. Additionally, the film's soundtrack, featuring Bobby Brown's catchy 'On Our Own,' shifts the vibe and reflects the film’s attempt to carve out its own identity. While Ghostbusters 2 may not recapture the magic of the first, it remains an enjoyable romp through a world where laughter can still chase away the ghosts of self-doubt.'"
As she settles into her cushioned chair, a familiar tune began to drift through the air, drawing her attention.
….Bustin' makes me feel good...
The unmistakable theme song from Ghostbusters echoed in the distance.
“Wait, is someone playing the Ghostbusters theme?” she asked, puzzled, as she turned slightly to look behind herself.
Just then, a soft giggle floated back to her from somewhere beyond the shimmering lights of Fayla's realm. It was unmistakably Fayla’s laughter, playful and mischievous.
She shook her head and rolled her eyes, a smile creeping onto her lips. “Of course it’s you,” she muttered, amused.
With a playful sigh, she turned her focus back to the camera, ready to dive into her thoughts on the movie that had enchanted her this Halloween season.
As the echoes of the Ghostbusters theme faded, she grinned, excited to share her thoughts on Ghostbusters: Afterlife. “This movie is a great tribute to the original films while introducing a new generation of characters. It works well without the veteran Ghostbusters until they show up, which helps it establish its own identity while still honoring the past. When Egon appears to guide his daughter, it really brings closure to their relationship. That emotional beat resonates with fans and shows the film's dedication to the original cast. McKenna Grace is fantastic as Phoebe, too. She captures that smart, relatable vibe, proving that young actors can take on significant roles. Even though Afterlife focuses more on younger characters, it still delivers a compelling story without getting too absurd. It reflects modern filmmaking sensibilities while keeping that sense of wonder and nostalgia.”
With that thought still lingering, she continued, “Now, let’s talk about Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire! There’s something powerful about nostalgia. I went into it hoping for that familiar thrill, seeing the new and old cast team up for an epic battle. While the movie had its moments, it didn’t entirely meet those hopes. Seeing the original Ghostbusters alongside the new team was a highlight! Watching these generations unite brought a smile, hitting those nostalgic notes just right.”
With a reflective sigh, she said, “You know, Frozen Empire aimed to blend nostalgia with fresh perspectives, but it’s a reminder of how our favorite stories evolve—and sometimes falter. This got me thinking about the broader cultural conversations we’re having today.”
As Halloween approached, she added, “I’ve been thinking about The Frighteners, a film that really resonates with me for its unique blend of humor and emotional depth. At first, when we meet Patricia Bradley, played by Dee Wallace, she seems like the quintessential victim fleeing from a ghost. But as the story unfolds, her relationship with the deceased Johnny Bartlett becomes so much more complex. Instead of just being terrorized, it’s almost like she enjoys the thrill of being pursued, which hints at a darker, more seductive side of her character. It really challenges our perceptions and introduces this unsettling dynamic between her and the supernatural.”
Then, with a smile, she continued, “And let’s not forget Dr. Lucy Lynskey, played by Trini Alvarado. She’s such a beacon of belief in a world filled with skepticism. While Frank Bannister, played by Michael J. Fox, operates on the fringes of legitimacy, Lucy’s unwavering faith in him is touching and pivotal. She sees the humanity in Frank, understanding the trauma he grapples with, which allows their connection to flourish. Her trust in him really provides a crucial emotional anchor, emphasizing the film's exploration of redemption and healing.”
“There’s this one intimate moment,” she said, her eyes lighting up, “when Lucy puts Frank in a freezer to confront his past. You can feel their unspoken bond through the subtle gestures and body language. Lucy’s care for Frank and the tension in the air convey an unmistakable affection, showcasing a beautiful yet understated romance that builds throughout the film. It adds so much depth to the narrative, reminding us that even amidst chaos, meaningful connections can emerge.”
She continued, “And the film culminates in this poignant scene where Frank briefly visits heaven and meets his late wife, who tells him, ‘It’s not your time.’ That bittersweet moment suggests her awareness of his feelings for Lucy, giving him permission to embrace new beginnings. It encapsulates the themes of letting go and the possibility of love after loss, providing a hopeful resolution that transcends the horror elements of the film.”
After reflecting on The Frighteners, she turned her thoughts to Garfield’s Halloween Adventure. “This special has always held a spot on my watchlist,” she said. “With its blend of humor and spookiness, it showcases Garfield’s lazy antics against the backdrop of Halloween excitement. However, this year, after watching it again, something felt different.
“The premise is so familiar: Garfield and Odie go trick-or-treating and stumble upon a haunted house with real ghosts. Normally, that straightforward tale brings laughs, but on rewatching, it felt predictable and less engaging. The jokes seemed tired, and the spooky elements lost their edge.
“This shift in enjoyment made me reflect on how our tastes evolve. Garfield’s Halloween Adventure might belong in the nostalgia corner, something to appreciate occasionally rather than every year. While it remains a classic, its impact may not resonate the same way anymore.
“As Halloween approaches, I have to mention It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown. It’s a beloved tradition since its debut in 1966,” she remarked. “This special captures the bittersweet essence of childhood, showcasing Linus’s unwavering faith in the Great Pumpkin and Charlie Brown’s disappointment in receiving rocks instead of candy. The humor intertwines with deeper themes of hope and unfairness, making it relatable for both kids and adults.”
She continued, “Lucy’s caring side shines through when she brings Linus home, reminding us of the warmth found in sibling relationships. Meanwhile, Snoopy’s chaotic adventures as the World War I Flying Ace add whimsy, highlighting childhood creativity. And that iconic jazz score by Vince Guaraldi enhances the nostalgic atmosphere, making this special a perfect blend of humor and heart. It’s the Great Pumpkin reminds us of the magic of belief and the complexities of friendship. So, grab some candy corn and enjoy this classic as part of your Halloween festivities!”
“Much like these evolving favorites, our cultural landscape is marked by changing language and perspectives,” she added thoughtfully. “Unpacking cultural discourse is essential. In recent years, terms like ‘woke,’ ‘cultural Marxism,’ and ‘critical race theory’ have turned into battlegrounds in cultural debates. What once aimed to address social justice is often wielded as a weapon to dismiss progressive movements, especially by figures like Trump and Musk. Their appropriation of ‘woke’ as a pejorative reflects a refusal to confront privilege and a tendency to mock those advocating for justice. Honestly, it’s just ‘dumb as fucking shit.’
“Many who use these terms fall into two camps: overworked individuals too exhausted to broaden their worldview and those with the resources to remain indifferent,” she continued. “Meanwhile, terms like ‘cultural Marxism’ and ‘CRT’ are distorted into boogeymen that inhibit constructive dialogue about systemic inequality. What’s critical here is the emotional intensity these discussions evoke, often leading to polarization. Instead of engaging in genuine debate, we see defensiveness that stifles understanding.”
“To foster healthier conversations,” she suggested, “we must approach these terms with radical compassion. Let’s prioritize meaningful dialogue over labels and embrace the deeper discussions where we risk cutting ourselves—because growth often comes from discomfort.”
“As these terms can rally people,” she concluded, “they also present opportunities for reflection. I want you all to think about a few questions: How do you perceive the term ‘woke’? Does it carry a different meaning for you than for others? In what ways have you seen language used as a weapon in cultural discussions? What steps can you take to promote understanding and empathy in conversations about contentious issues? Let’s navigate these conversations with empathy, recognizing the complexities of our world.”
“Reflecting on the cultural landscape”, she noted, “These conversations about language and identity lead us right into the heart of political agendas that directly impact our lives. Take Trump’s Long Con: the betrayal and consequences of Project 2025. Donald Trump never truly supported the LGBT community—it was all a facade. Now, with Project 2025, his true agenda is out in the open. Drafted by the Heritage Foundation, this dangerous plan aims to reshape the federal government into an authoritarian tool. And the biggest targets? Civil rights, social safety nets, and the LGBT community.
Project 2025 isn’t just about conservative policies—it’s about eroding decades of progress for LGBT individuals. By embedding Christian nationalist ideals into law, Project 2025 seeks to eliminate protections for marriage equality, transgender health care, and anti-discrimination rights. But it won’t stop at minors. Transgender adults will also face attacks on their access to medical care, housing, and employment.
Imagine a world where transgender adults are denied hormone therapy or even criminalized for seeking care. That’s where we’re headed if Project 2025 becomes reality.
With these relentless attacks, the trans community will inevitably galvanize. If Trump and his backers think we’ll just sit back, they’re in for a surprise. The very activism transphobes fear will only grow stronger in the face of these existential threats.
What’s next? The right wing is already talking about civil war if Trump doesn’t win. But if he does—and implements Project 2025—they might get a different kind of war, from us. The fight for our survival will not end here.
Project 2025 poses a significant threat to our community, but it also highlights the urgency of support for trans voices in the face of uncertainty. As the first-ever voting experience approaches on November 5, it’s crucial to reflect on how our political landscape affects the lives of trans individuals and content creators. With the possibility of Trump returning to power, there’s an urgent threat looming over our community that we cannot afford to ignore. His rhetoric about 'protecting' trans youth often disguises policies that undermine the rights of all trans people, creating an environment of fear and uncertainty.
Trans youth are especially vulnerable, yet this threat extends beyond them. It encompasses the entire trans community, including the brave content creators who share their stories and experiences online. These individuals play a vital role in advocating for our rights and fostering a sense of belonging in a world that often seeks to erase us. Their voices are essential in challenging harmful narratives and providing visibility, yet they face increased scrutiny and backlash simply for existing and sharing their truths.
Now, more than ever, we need to stand in solidarity with trans individuals and content creators. Engaging with their content, sharing their stories, and supporting their work are powerful ways to uplift our community. Every tweet, every like, and every dollar counts in ensuring that trans voices continue to be heard and respected.
This isn’t just a trans issue; it's a human rights issue that affects us all. As I approach my first-ever vote, I feel the weight of this responsibility more than ever. Voting for the first time feels monumental. It’s a chance for my voice to be counted and for me to stand up for the rights and futures of trans individuals like myself. Walking to the polling place will be both exciting and daunting but participating in this democratic process is crucial for my community and me.
In the face of potential adversity, we must unite to safeguard the rights and dignity of our community. I urge everyone reading this to not only cast your vote but also to engage actively in advocacy. Whether it’s writing to your local representatives, joining community organizations, or sharing the stories of trans individuals online, every action counts. We all have a role to play in creating a world where everyone is valued.” As she finished her thoughts, a crow swooped by, gliding gracefully near her before disappearing into the rafters. With a knowing smile, she remarked, “I guess that’s my cue to go. All that revenge and stuff.”
She curtsied while still seated, a playful gesture that lightened the air. Then, rising, she turned toward the back of the stage and began to walk away. Once she was in the distance, her voice echoed softly, calling out, “Fayla! I need to change back!”
As she called out for Fayla, a soft, almost melodic voice replied from the shadows, “Oh, sorry!”
At that moment, a magical sound filled the air, like the tinkling of distant bells or the gentle rustle of leaves in a breeze. It swirled around her, enveloping her in a warm glow, signaling the return to her true self.
I’m changing this up to have a little fun. Since I’m hoping to be an author in the next year or so, this is me just having fun. I did forget to have 'Anna' talk about my novel, so let me do that now.
As Marie's grandfather, Angelo, managed the phone calls for contracts regarding his firm, he often found himself absent from his family's daily life. Karolina did her best to create a sense of family, cherishing the quiet evenings when the phones finally stopped ringing. Those rare moments in the morning, when everything felt serene and time seemed to slow down, were especially precious to Angelo. In those dreamlike instances, he would pause, savoring the stillness and the warmth of family, even if he was seldom present to enjoy them fully.
As Angelo embraced those fleeting moments of tranquility, the importance of stories—both told and lived—came to the forefront of his mind. Just like his family's narrative, every author's journey deserves recognition and support. Speaking of which, I’d like to take a moment to talk about something close to my heart: my subscription.
For only $8 a month, why would you pay for my subscription? I mean, what could possibly be better than supporting my mediocre musings? Let’s be honest—here are a few totally better uses of your money:
A Fancy Coffee: Sure, you could buy that overpriced latte, but it’ll be gone in minutes. My posts? They last forever! (Or at least until the next issue.)
A New Plant: You could try to keep a succulent alive, but let’s face it, it’s probably going to die. My subscription is a much safer bet—no watering required!
A Pack of Gum: Because nothing says “I value my money” like chewing gum that loses its flavor in five minutes.
A Mystery Box: Why gamble on unknown crap when you can know exactly what you’re getting with my posts?
A Night Out: Sure, you could have a night of fun, but then you'd have to deal with people. My posts come with zero social interaction!
So, really, why not invest in the subscription? Who wouldn’t want to trade all that for my delightful (or not-so-delightful) content? 🤔
As we draw this delightful little journey to a close, I can’t help but feel the shadows stirring with secrets yet to be unveiled. If you’ve found yourself hungry for more—curious about the tantalizing tales that lie just beyond this free glimpse—fear not!
Dearie, you’re not alone in your intrigue. Allow me to introduce Fayla, your mischievous guide waiting just behind the curtain. With a twinkle in her eye and a playful spirit, she’s ready to lead you into a world where stories come alive, and whispers of enchantment fill the air. Fayla will be your companion in exploring the depths of my imagination, especially as she takes charge of our Thursday paid posts.
So, if you dare to explore deeper, unlock the treasures hidden beyond the paywall. Will you take the plunge? Stay tuned for what Fayla has in store for you in the next post!
As we draw this delightful little journey to a close, I can’t help but feel the shadows stirring with secrets yet to be unveiled. If you’ve found yourself hungry for more—curious about the tantalizing tales that lie just beyond this free glimpse—fear not!
Dearie, you’re not alone in your intrigue. Allow me to introduce Fayla, your mischievous guide waiting just behind the curtain. She’s ready to lead you into a world where stories come alive, and whispers of enchantment fill the air. So, if you dare to explore deeper, unlock the treasures hidden beyond the paywall.
Will you take the plunge? Stay tuned for what Fayla has in store for you in the next post!
As I wrap up these thoughts, I’m gearing up for my first-ever voting experience. In just a little while, I’ll be heading out to tackle some errands before making my way to the polls, which are just a short 10-15 minute trip away. I’m hopeful for a smooth process, especially with the friendly folks there to help guide me through it! Later tonight, I look forward to watching live coverage, perhaps catching Allan Litchman’s insights. It’s an exciting step, and I can’t wait to be part of this moment
Before I get to the final section, I want to share a video that I love to watch every Halloween.
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