With a high of 93 today, I can’t say it feels like October, but rumor has it this next weekend will bring more promising temperatures. I love the morning when I feel the first chill of the year. There’s a shift in the air that carries its own light, its own sound, its own scent. Halloween is coming.
What might you need to while away a few October hours and you’re not into spooky season?
Well, here are a few friendly recs. First, while I certainly like people to buy my art, many other artists fill the world, and a certain wall just needs a certain type of work. If you’re looking for a coloring book or a calendar or a print, take a look at OHSO. She’s as dedicated as one can possibly be. Follow her on social media. Show her some love.
Next up, a shout out to Fallon Brown. They write a lot of romance, which is not usually my genre. BUT it is a great genre with many fun stories. To quote Fallon’s page, “One thing [my stories] do all have in common is that you can usually find a trans(and often nonbinary) main character. As well as several other supporting queer characters. I'm not trying to tick off a box, just creating the community I want to exist.” C’mon, y’all! Support that!
Another author who I love even though, again, romance isn’t my usual thing, is Deanna Roy. She supports her fellow writers so hard, I have to do the same. Give her a look.
NOW FOR STORIES AND TREATS IN MY SO-CALLED WHEELHOUSE (also known as Spooky Season).
I’m excited to read Lights, Camera, Witchcraft. It’s pricey, so ask at your local library. I heard about it because the author was on The Witchwave podcast, and witchy movies are amazing. Do you have a favorite? I avoid horror, so I gotta go for The Wizard of Oz, followed by Practical Magic. (Midnight margaritas!)
OCTOBER TRADITIONS
Every October, I watch Over the Garden Wall. I love this so much! Nothing else can be said without spoilers, but it’s a delight. Thoughtful video essays on the series abound on YouTube. A couple of years ago, I went down the rabbit hole (or, ahem, over the garden wall) and appreciated discovering the story’s many layers.
If you’ve been here a while, you already know. Every October, I read A Night in the Lonesome October, one chapter a day. I love the title (I say this repeatedly). Reading it? Let me know!
Third tradition (because magic comes in threes), displaying the Samhain Oracle, Seasons of the Witch. There’s a card for each day of October. I have a spot for it, and I change it out every morning. Morning feels better with a hot cup of black coffee and a bit of ritual. Any fall rituals you follow?
Recently, I watched this video. It’s a good reminder of how witchcraft can be a delight, but witchcraft accusations still get people killed. And the people tortured and murdered on such accusation are not, in fact, witches. No one executed in Salem in 1692 was a witch. They were people just trying to live their lives. Have you heard to the torture methods? Nightmare fuel for days.
As ever, subscribe, share, like, and all that jazz. I’ve got Patreon, where I share stories and mail people art. I’ve got Etsy, where I sell art. And if you want a signed copy of one of my books along with an art print or postcard, tell me now! Currently. not available over on Etsy. Just available through this newsletter and Paypal. $20 for a book and print.
Alrighty, y’all. That’s enough for now. Happy October! See you on Halloween!