From Pumpkins to Costumes: A Photo Journey Through Halloween Traditions

Halloween, also known as All Hallows' Eve, is celebrated annually on October 31st in many countries. This day is dedicated to remembering the dead, including saints (also known as hallow) and martyrs. 

Typical festive Halloween activities include trick-or-treating, attending costume parties, decorating, carving pumpkins into jack-o'-lanterns, lighting bonfires, apple bobbing, visiting haunted house attractions, playing pranks, telling scary stories, and watching horror films.

Here is a photo post.

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Pumpkin Carving

Pumpkin Carving Photo by Vlad Chețan

Trick or Treating

Photo by Yaroslav Shuraev

Halloween Costume

Photo by Charles Parker

Halloween Candy

The popular Candy Corn

This tradition of offering candy/ food to spirits, where children pray to the dead in exchange for cakes, is a part of Celtic tradition. Later, it became a tradition to offer candy to kids on Halloween as a  treat.

Photo by Mary Jane Duford on Unsplash

Corn Maze

The tradition of Corn mazes existed in ancient civilizations by the Greeks, Romans, and others. In the 17th century, it became a pastime in Europe. Nowadays, these Corn Mazes have become a part of family-friendly Fall activities and are sometimes associated with Halloween as well. 

Photo by Hannah McBride on Unsplash

Haunted House Attractions

The history of Haunted houses dates back to the 19th century in London, where people used illusions and attractions to scare people in the form of entertainment. Haunted house attractions are fun and scary. With the latest technology, sound effects, and motion effects, they create jump scares, making these a thrilling attraction during Halloween. 

Photo by Ehud Neuhaus on Unsplash

Apple Bobbing:

This is a traditional game played by kids where they have to pick apples by mouth from a tub of water with apples.

Photo by Peter Muscutt on Unsplash

Watching Scary Movies:

For many, watching horror movies on Halloween is a tradition that has existed for many years.

Photo by Vitaly Gariev on Unsplash

Halloween Decor 

Nowadays, I see different variations in decor like cute ghouls, funny and creepy faces, Large scary structures with sound effects, creepy objects with visual effects like lighting, smoke, etc.,

Photo by Oxana Melis on Unsplash

Hope you enjoyed this photo post with Halloween Traditions. 

Until next time,

This post is a part of Blogchatter Half Marathon 2025

A Hiker's Paradise: Discovering the Highline Trail at Glacier National Park

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The Highline Trail is the most beautiful hike in Glacier National Park. At every turn, at every step, you will see jaw-dropping views of the valley and mountains. You might also encounter wildlife - Black bears, Mountain Goats, Big Horn sheep etc., 

The trail seems pretty dangerous too, at some places where the narrow hiking path hugs canyon walls. It is just one slip away from the valley. There are rails at most places for safety.

Stats:

Distance(One-way): 13.3 miles

Total Elevation gain: 1950 ft

Trail Difficulty: Strenuous

Since it is very lengthy, many hikers either choose to do a whole day trail till 'The Loop' and take a shuttle from there. OR hike as much as possible and return to Logan Pass. 

The best way is to go to 'The Loop', including the extra 0.8-mile path, which takes you to Grinnell Glacier Overlook. Summer or early fall is the best time to visit. Going to the Sun road is open only for around 4 to 5 months in Summer, weather permitting. Shuttles run regularly to Logan Pass from the main entrance.

Where to Start?

The trailhead is at the Logan Pass Visitor Center. So, hikers can fill water bottles, use restrooms, and stock up with energy bars and snacks before starting this trail. Logan Pass also has an area with several exhibits explaining the geology, flora, fauna, and wildlife of this area.

Parking:

It is very difficult to almost impossible to find parking at Logan Pass. This parking lot usually fills up by 7 or 8 am, it seems. So, the best way is to take a free park shuttle to Logan Pass. 

Hiking Essentials:

If you’re gearing up for Glacier (or any big hike), here are a few must-have items you can easily grab online:

• 🥾 Waterproof Hiking Boots – Good ankle support is a lifesaver on rocky trails.

• 🥤 Hydration Pack / Water Bladder – Easier than carrying bottles, and you’ll drink more often.

• 🦌 Bear Spray – Non-negotiable in Glacier. Clip it to your belt for quick access.

• 🚶 Collapsible Trekking Poles – Lightweight and perfect for long hikes with steep climbs.

• 🌞 UV Protection Hiking Hat – Wide brim for sun protection.

• 🎒 Lightweight Hiking Backpack – Comfortable, with enough room for snacks, jackets, and gear.

• 📸 Compact Travel Camera – Because your phone photos just won’t do justice to Glacier’s beauty.

Our Experience of Hiking:

We attempted this hike with our two kids - a 14-year-old and a 10-year-old. We trained for long hikes up to 6 miles before visiting Glacier National Park. So, distance is ok for us. Handling elevation gain is tough on our stamina. 

This might have been possible if it were the only hike in Glacier. We did the Grinnel Glacier hike 2 days ago, which was challenging (an 11-mile round trip with 1500 ft elevation gain), and it took some time to recover from that to do another 6+ mile hike.

So, we decided to hike as far as we can and return. We also had a plan to hike the Hidden Lake Overlook Trail after this. 

The first half mile is just a climb down on a regular hiking trail, then the most awaited part came! We were walking along the edge of canyon walls with majestic views of the valley and dangerous drops just below our feet. This hike for sure is like none other we've experienced. 

Since we were hiking with kids, we were extra careful, holding the rails and trying not to take out our phones for photos. As the name suggests, it is like walking on a high line. But there are rails to hold, and it is safe to hike. 

Beautiful views at every step:

We were careful, walking slowly, relishing the nature around us. We stopped at multiple places to take photos with great views. We might have walked around 2 miles and returned. 

Still, it was worth it. 

When compared to the Grinnell Glacier trail, this trail seemed pretty simple without much elevation, at least in the initial 2 miles. 

It is thrilling for sure, with sheer drop-offs very near to our feet and narrow hiking trails. There is not much shade on the trail, so a lot of Sun exposure. It is not at all recommended with kids below 6 years, because it is difficult for an adult to hike while carrying a kid. 

We didn't come across any wildlife within 2 miles. But we saw many Big Horn sheep on the way to the trail and nearer to Logan Pass.

The remaining part of the Trail till The Loop:

We didn't do this part, but I researched a lot.

After 3 miles, hikers reach Haystack Pass(little elevation involved). At around the 7-mile mark, hikers will reach the Garden Wall Trail. At 7.6 miles, we can reach Granite Chalet junction, which will lead to Granite Chalet. The Grinnel Glacier overlook trail is 0.8 miles(one-way) from the main route. It is a steep climb, and on a hot sunny day, it takes a lot of effort to reach, but the views will be amazing, as per the photos and videos I watched. 

Once back on the Highline Trail, Granite Chalet is 0.8 miles. The Granite chalet has restrooms available. Granite Chalet is a simple hostel with no amenities. There are 12 guest rooms with bunk beds. There is a place to rest, relax after a tiring hike, and you can buy any basic snacks and water. Only cash is accepted. 

Now, there are 4 miles of hiking left to reach "The Loop", where hikers can get a shuttle back to Logan Pass. These 4 miles I heard are tough as well, as they continuously climb down and are tough on the knees. Many hikers mention that it seems like an unending series of switchbacks.

Photo by Kyle Richards on Unsplash

Just before the loop trailhead, hikers reach the Packers' roost junction. They have to take the left here to reach the loop, which is 0.5 miles away.

We couldn't do this part of the trail as we were hiking with kids, but I would love to do this next time. It is one of our bucket list favorite hikes.

So, that's about the most popular and dangerous-looking High Line Trail. Hope you enjoyed my travelogue.

Other Places to See in Glacier National Park:

Avalanche Lake

Highline Trail

Hidden Lake Overlook Trail

Going-to-the-Sun Road

Grinnel Glacier Hike

Until next time,

This post is a part of Blogchatter Half Marathon 2025

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Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas

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Hot Springs National Park is located in Central Arkansas. It is the oldest protected area in the US, established in 1832. The Park protects its natural thermal springs, which are believed to have therapeutic and healing properties. 

This National park won't impress like Yellowstone, but it has a great history and charm. We spent half a day here.

How to Reach?

We drove from Austin, Tx. Hot Springs is 4.5 hrs away from Dallas and 1 hr away from Little Rock. 

You can check flight options here.

Check accommodations:

Rental car options here. 

There is no entrance fee to visit this National Park!

Things to do in Hot Springs National Park

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1. Visit Fordyce Bathhouse Museum

Bathhouse Row is a line-up of several bathhouses, spas, and a visitor center with some natural hot springs. We parked in a parking lot in the opposite lane of the Quapaw bathhouse. (Free parking at 128 Exchange Street)

It is an easy walk across the street from there. We started our walk from the Fordyce Bathhouse Museum. The museum has displays on the history of the bathhouse, geology, and how these thermal springs helped many people to heal. We saw the exhibits like the spa, bathhouses in the old days, their attire, the sculptures, the architecture of the building etc.,

This is a nice place for the introduction of the park. We also got to know the different minerals present in Hot springs.  

2. Taste the Hotsprings

We visited this place in Winter. The fountain is at the corner when you turn left from the Park administration building. It's called Hot water cascade. We filled our bottle with water.

The water is very hot, but the taste is great. I was expecting a strong smell of minerals. 

This is the only public place where you can taste the natural springs. Also, visit the Display Spring near Maurice Bathhouse. You can touch the water.

3. Walk along the bathhouse row

There are 8 bathhouses with a spa and a bathhouse inside. To visit, you need to reserve, or you can visit as per availability. 

We didn't go to every bathhouse, but we took pictures from outside. I love the colorful Buckstaff Bathhouse. The architecture of a few other bathhouses is also great. 

4. Hike the easy Grand Promenade trail

Grand Promenade trail is a short, easy walk of 0.7 miles that goes behind the historic bathhouse row and continues to the front of these buildings. 

At the end of the bathhouse row, you can check the beautiful historic 'Arlington Hotel'. 

5. Drive to Hotsprings Mountain Tower

Hot Springs Mountain Tower has 2 decks - the top deck gives panoramic views, whereas, lower deck has some exhibits on the national park history. A short drive takes us to the tower.

Hot springs mountain tower Photo by Yash Mannepalli on Unsplash

6. Scenic drive to West Mountain

The West Mountain scenic drive is a quick 5-mile drive from Hot Springs and offers a couple of viewpoints of the surroundings. 

Check this page for the map. 

Other places to see near Hotsprings National Park:

Garvan Woodland Gardens is 15 mins away, and I heard it's worth a trip. Especially the lighting during Christmas is great.

Lake Ouachita State Park is 20 minutes away, which is the largest lake in Arkansas. It offers swimming, scuba diving, boating, kayaking, and fishing.

Magic Springs Water Park is 3 minutes away for family fun.

Garvan Woodland Gardens Photo by Yash Mannepalli on Unsplash

I hope you enjoyed this travelogue.

Until next time,

This post is a part of Blogchatter Half Marathon 2025

Avalanche Lake Trail in Glacier National Park - Everything You need to know

This is part 3 of our itinerary of Glacier National Park. The following are the links to other posts:

Highline Trail

Hidden Lake Overlook Trail

Going-to-the-Sun Road

Grinnel Glacier Hike

Grinnel Glacier Trail is an 11-mile round-trip hike with 1500 ft elevation gain. It is moderately challenging. So, the next day, we just drove the Going-to-the-Sun Road from the east side. We covered all viewpoints on the way and gave a break from hiking to rest our legs. There are two more important trails on our list: the Avalanche Creek Trail and St. Mary and Virginia Falls. Both are around 6 miles round-trip. 

📍 Trail Overview

• Location: West side of Glacier National Park, Montana

• Trailhead: Avalanche Picnic Area / Trail of the Cedars

• Round Trip Distance: ~5.9 miles 

• Elevation Gain: ~730 feet 

• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

• Time Needed: 2–4 hours, depending on pace and time spent at the lake

• Best Season: Late May – October (snow can linger in spring; access may be limited early in season)

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🚗 Getting There

• Start at Trail of the Cedars, a wheelchair-accessible boardwalk trail.

• The Avalanche Lake Trail branches off about halfway along.

• Parking fills up quickly in summer (especially mid-morning to afternoon). Arrive early (before 8 AM) or go later in the evening. Shuttle service is available along Going-to-the-Sun Road if parking is full.

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🥾 Trail Description

1. Trail of the Cedars (0.5 miles):

   • The first part is a shaded, flat boardwalk loop through old-growth red cedars and western hemlocks.

   • You’ll cross a footbridge with a dramatic view of Avalanche Gorge—a rushing stream through sculpted rock.

2. Avalanche Lake Trail (2.3 miles one-way):

   • From the junction, the trail begins a steady, moderate climb.

   • The path winds through dense forest, with moss-covered trees and occasional creek crossings.

   • Keep an eye out for wildlife such as deer, marmots, and sometimes bears.

3. Arrival at Avalanche Lake:

• The lake is a stunning turquoise gem, cradled by steep cliffs and multiple waterfalls tumbling down from the surrounding peaks (notably Bearhat Mountain).

• There are benches and logs near the shoreline for resting.

• You can continue along the shore to the far end of the lake for quieter spots and even better views.

Our Hike:

Avalanche Lake trailhead / The trail of Cedars trailhead is always busy, and it is difficult to get parking. We arrived at the visitor center in the morning, parked our car, and waited for the shuttle. The shuttle runs every 20 to 30 mins.  Expect a waiting time in the queue. Still, the shuttle is well worth the wait over waiting for parking. 

We started our hike from the boardwalk of the Trail of Cedars. It is interesting to watch the giant Cedar trees and read about them. This part of the trail is shaded.

Then, it branches off to Avalanche Lake Trail. After going for a few minutes, we hiked along the river and the Avalanche gorge. It is a pleasant experience with water rushing along the river. 

Then, the trail starts climbing slowly with a few switchbacks. The trail seems very lengthy, but doesn't feel tough when compared to Grinnell Glacier. The trail is mostly shaded, and it is a walk in the middle of a lush forest. 

Then, we reached the Avalanche Lake. A beautiful lake with emerald green water and a nice waterfall. We relaxed, had a snack, and started our hike back. The return was also not that challenging. Restrooms are available at the start of the trail.

We could get a shuttle with less than 30 minutes wait. We finished our lunch at Lake Mc Donald lodge and relaxed a bit at the beach of Lake Mc Donald. While returning to McDonald lodge, we saw many waterfalls and cascades on the way.

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That's about this shaded trail, which takes us to the beautiful lake. 

Until next time,

This post is a part of Blogchatter Half Marathon 2025

Habits that reflect me!

A personal post today. Let me share some habits that reflect me.

Watching Sunrise

Every morning, I look forward to that magical moment when the sun peeks over the horizon and paints the sky in soft shades of orange and pink. There’s something truly calming about it—a simple yet powerful way to practice mindfulness and be present in the moment.

Our backyard faces east, which makes it the perfect spot to enjoy the sunrise. During winter, the sun doesn’t rise until around 7:30 a.m.—just after I’ve sent the kids off to school. That’s my quiet time, coffee in hand, soaking in the warmth of the early rays and the beauty of a brand-new day.

Photo by Tahir Shaw: https://www.pexels.com/photo/golden-hour-view-on-the-mountain-205410/

Coffee

I’ve never been a huge coffee lover, but I absolutely enjoy sipping a cup made by my spouse (he makes it best! ☕). For me, coffee isn’t just about caffeine—it’s about connection. It’s the warmth of shared moments, intimate conversations, and quiet comfort. Honestly, I think I love the smell of coffee even more than the taste.

And since science says coffee is good for longevity—cheers to more happy, coffee-filled years together!

Love for Soups, Salads, and Pasta

I’m convinced I must’ve been Italian in a past life 🤔 because I have an undeniable love for soups, salads, and pasta. Oddly enough, not pizza—which surprises everyone!

Even though cooking isn’t my favorite activity, I enjoy making soups in my Instant Pot. They’re simple, nourishing, and perfect for busy days. Pasta is another favorite—it’s hearty and satisfying, just like a good South Indian meal. When it comes to salads, I prefer mine with cooked veggies over raw lettuce. They’re easier to digest and still pack all the goodness.

Photo by Navada Ra: https://www.pexels.com/photo/bowl-of-soup-and-two-silver-spoons-1703272/

Prioritizing Tasks

I’m a detail-oriented multitasker by nature. Every day feels like a mental juggling act—calculating tasks, priorities, and deadlines. With two active kids, a full-time job, and a dance school I run on weekends, prioritizing isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. Honestly, it’s the one skill (along with family support!) that keeps everything running smoothly.

Photo by Tara Winstead: https://www.pexels.com/photo/text-on-a-notepad-8386688/

Books

Books are my weakness. I love getting lost in a good mystery, thriller, or romance novel. I could read anytime, anywhere—even on vacations! But lately, I’ve been trying to rein in that habit.

I used to read before bed, but I realized it keeps my mind too active to sleep. And once I start a great book, I just can’t put it down until I finish it—definitely not ideal for a good night’s rest! Now, I’ve limited my reading to lazy weekend afternoons, which feels like the perfect compromise.

Blogging

And that brings us here—to blogging. Writing has always been close to my heart. Even though life has gotten busier and blogging sometimes takes a back seat, I still stay connected through travel writing.

We love exploring and hiking as a family, and after spending hours researching trails and itineraries, I enjoy documenting our experiences. My goal is to share practical tips and real insights that can help others plan their own adventures.

Photo by Pixabay: https://www.pexels.com/photo/blog-letters-on-brown-wood-262508/

Here are all my travel stories—written with love, curiosity, and a bit of wanderlust. 🌍💛

So, that's about some habits that reflect me. What habits define you?

Until next time,

This post is a part of Blogchatter Half Marathon 2025