Just last week, Joan and I took a 3-day mini-vacation in Half Moon Bay. We chose those three days specifically to avoid the crushing madness of the upcoming annual Half Moon Bay Pumpkin Festival. Thankfully, the festivities began the Saturday and Sunday after our vacation — perfect timing for us. We could enjoy all the festivities and decorations but not the crowds!

The whole town was readying itself for the weekend event — all sparkly and decorated for Halloween. A huge scale at the ready with gigantic pumpkins being weighed to see who grew the biggest pumpkin this year! (We found out later a 1-ton pumpkin won the contest!) And, field upon field covered with take-home pumpkins.

I even ate pumpkin pancakes topped with spiced butternut squash and whipped cream. What better way to bring in the holiday than with “pumpkin” everything!

The Airbnb apartment we rented was conveniently located only a few short blocks from downtown, as well as, the public beach and Pacific Coast walking trail. We made sure our elder disabled dog, Lexi, was along on our walks — happily riding in her cart.

You know, there is nothing like walking over sand and putting your feet in ocean waves to ground and relax. It was my most favorite thing to do.

We were fortunate to be able to go during the week to avoid the heavy traffic and enjoy the restaurants with only the locals and early tourists. All in all, a very relaxing Halloween celebration and joint birthday celebration.

So, to continue with the theme of Halloween, this month we share The Fix-It Professionals — Top 10 Scary Home Fails.

Could your home be haunted??? Oh no!