our favorite halloween books

WHEN MY boys were teeny, we started collecting books for each holiday. It has been a super sweet ongoing tradition and I just love pulling out the books each season, signaling the start of the holiday hoopla. Thank GOODNESS my big guys are still willing to read some picture books with their mama; I’ll be truly devastated when they start to roll their eyes at me when I bust out the holiday books. For now, I’ll cherish each snuggle and giggle and “ooh, I remember that one!” We have amassed a truly awesome collection of Halloween books and I wanted to share a big pile of my favorites and a few that are on our list. Some are sweet, some are spooky, but they’ll all get you excited about the season. If you have any favorites, please do share! I’ll keep adding to our collection until we’re solidly into the eye rolling phase. xo

:: Dia de los Muertos is an excellent explanation and celebration of this colorful holiday with the most awesome illustrations. ::

:: How to Make Friends with a Ghost is sweet and adorable and touching and has really pretty illustrations, too. ::

:: Of course The Scariest Book Ever isn’t even the tiniest bit terrifying, but a scaredy ghost thinks it will be. It’s super adorable and has the brightest, happiest illustrations. ::

:: I absolutely love the fantastic illustrations in Bone Soup. It’s a clever story about using your wits to get what you need and bring people together. ::

:: A World Full of Spooky Stories is a big gorgeous collection of scary stories from around the world, some you may have heard and many that you probably haven’t. ::

:: Skeleton for Dinner is a super cute story about a BIG misunderstanding between friends that ends sweetly. ::

:: The Hallo Wiener is a story about how the tables turn when a small dog saves the classmates who bully him. It’s written by Dav Pilkey, author of Dog Man and Captain Underpants, so you’ll get bonus points from the start. ::

:: Uh oh, Wolfboy is super hangry. This funny book has a surprise ending and THE most awesome ‘illustrations’ made entirely of clay. It’s visually fantastic. ::

:: Popcorn is one in an adorable series of Frank Asch Bear Books. It’s about what happens when you have too much of a good thing. ::

:: Sara Conway’s illustrations in Ghost Afraid of the Dark are SO sweet, plus the cover glows in the dark, which is always a hit. This is a cute story about being brave enough to face your fears. ::

:: I LOVE No Such Thing, it’s part adorable seek + find book and part sweet story about denying that something is right in front of you. ::

:: Bear's Spooky Book of Hidden Things is just THE most adorably illustrated seek + find book ever. My big boys still love going through it together. We also love the Christmas and Springtime versions. ::

:: I LOVE Nobody Likes a Goblin and Ben Hatkes’ gorgeous, detailed, adorable illustrations. While not a true Halloween book, it’s a sweet story about friendship and being brave in the face of perilous adversity AND has goblins, skeletons and witches, so... ::

:: I Need My Monster is a funny, suspenseful story about imagination and unlikely friendship. ::

:: If you love the Crayons’ silly banter as much as we do, you'll appreciate The Crayons Trick or Treat, a wee little book about them trying to learn about this important holiday ritual. ::

:: Gustavo the Shy Ghost is a really sweet story about finding the courage to make yourself seen. ::

:: Creepy Pair of Underwear is another spooky, funny story in the ‘Creepy Tales’ series, filled with mystery and bravery. ::

:: Lonely Planet Kids Atlas of Monsters and Ghosts cleverly teaches kids the story behind the most famous monsters and mythological creatures around the world with some bonus geography in there, too. The illustrations are really fun. ::

:: Creepy Carrots is a funny book about what happens when you get a little greedy. The illustrations are awesome. ::

:: Peanut Butter & Brains is just a really cute and fun story about staying true to yourself even if others don’t get it right away ::

:: Bonaparte Falls Apart is an adorably illustrated story about the power of friendship to help you keep it together. ::

:: That greedy pug is at it again in Pig the Monster. He’s rudely trying to steal everyone’s candy until he’s reminded that dogs can’t eat chocolate and he learns his lesson in the grossest way. ::

:: Room on the Broom is the most awesome now-classic story of inclusivity and friendship and adventure. I just love all of Julia Donaldson’s books. ::

:: Love Monster and the Scary Something is the cutest darn book about being super brave and facing your fears. ::

:: Bonesville is a big gorgeously designed and illustrated book that teaches kids about every bone in their little body while they try to solve a very perplexing Bonesville mystery. ::

:: Monster Needs a Costume is an adorable story about trying something new. It’s super cute for little littles. ::

:: Trick or Treat, Crankenstein is the newest in this series that we love for its relatable grumpy main character and truly awesome illustrations. It’s about what happens when nothing goes the way you’d hoped. ::

:: Ready, Steady, Ghost! shows us that everyone can be brave no matter your size. ::

:: Ok, so Ed Emberley's How to Draw Monsters isn’t a book per se, but it is a favorite. Learn how to draw all of the season’s spookiest characters in Emberley’s iconic style. ::

:: I just love the vintage-feeling illustrations in Ghosts in the House! It’s a simple, super sweet story about how to solve a potentially spooky problem. ::

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thanksgiving + autumn books

THANKSGIVING is such a lovely holiday. I mean, a day reserved just for cooking and eating with family and friends is a total winner in my book. I love hearing about other family’s traditions and the dishes they HAVE to have on their holiday table [def sweet potatoes with marshmallows here]. Plus there’s the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, the Westminster Dog Show and football… I love it all.

IT FEELS to me like the wealth of super amazing books that perfectly illustrate the lovely tradition and sentiment of Thanksgiving are a bit trickier to find than with some other holidays. Maybe it’s something to do with an adorable [only in books] farm animal being eaten at the end or the controversial history of the holiday that just makes it tough to honor properly? BUT, never fear, I totally have you covered. Our little family def has a few really beloved favorites that are meaningful and funny or sweet and help start a conversation about gratitude and enjoying family and friends [plus a few more that I have my eye on]. I also included a few really lovely books about nature and the magical season change. As always, if you know of some Turkey Day gems, please share them in the comments so we can add to our collection. And Happy Thanksgiving, lovelies. I’m so grateful for you. xo

thanksgiving + autumn books for kids

> Bear Says Thanks is our hands-down FAVORITE Thanksgiving book. We really love the whole series of ‘Bear’ books, they’re all so charming and lovely. And the perfect lilting rhyming aside, this is just the sweetest story and it beautifully captures the real spirit of the holiday.

> ‘Twas the Night Before Thanksgiving is such a cute + FUNNY book from the creator of the super popular Dog Man and Captain Underpants series’. It follows the rhyming structure of its original counterpart, but has a VERY different ending. See what happens when a class full of kids on a farm field trip discover the fate of their new feathered friends. And of course Dav Pilkey’s illustrations are so fun and whimsical.

> Fans of Bruce will love this wee, funny Thanks for Nothing. The mice are SO thankful for everything that they accidentally leave nothing left to celebrate with.

> Peyton Picks the Perfect Pie is a super inclusive, interesting and cool story that both teaches you about the origin of some of your favorite Thanksgiving desserts AND gently encourages ‘particular’ kids to try something new.

> Holly's Thanksgiving Wish is a super cute book about following your dreams with the loving support and encouragement of family and friends. It has a fun rhyming style and adorable illustrations.

> Poor Fletcher is concerned about all of the leaves falling from the trees. When winter comes he gets a sweet surprise in Fletcher and the Falling Leaves.

> Learn about the puppeteer who invented the original balloons for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in Balloons Over Broadway. With incredibly detailed collage illustrations, this cool book really shows the genius behind the beloved tradition.

> I love Tomie dePaola [I mean, who doesn’t?]. Strega Nona was one of my absolute favorite books growing up. Strega Nona's Harvest has the beloved Italian grandmother teaching you about the season’s bounty and what it takes to get there.

> I am Thankful is an inclusive book about the true spirit of gratitude. It also includes a little section to practice your own gratitude.

> A sweet simple story about gratitude for nature that ends with all the ingredients needed for you to make an apple cake at home. Apple Cake: A Gratitude is super sweet for littles especially.

> The Leaf Thief is just about the cutest way ever to learn about the changing of the seasons. The illustrations are so adorable.

> Cynthia Rylant is known for her poetic + peaceful stories. In November is about nature’s seasonal cycles, people gathering together and family.

> Goodbye Summer, Hello Autumn is such a sweet celebration of nature in all of its transitional glory.

> Thanks for Thanksgiving is a cute, simple book that highlights everyday things to be grateful for, like puppies and piggyback rides and rain boots. But MOSTLY for family. There’s a page in the back for kids to write their own list of things they’re thankful for, too.

> Ok Peppa Pig Day of Giving Thanks is just adorable. It’s a super sweet story about being thankful for the little things in nature. The end is pure Peppa and very cute, especially for little fans of the Pig family.

> The Scarecrow is a really precious story of unlikely friendship and defying expectations. The illustrations are very detailed but serene.

> Turkey is terrified when Moose comes looking for him for Thanksgiving dinner. A Turkey for Thanksgiving is a sweet story about friendship and a big misunderstanding.

> We are So Thankful is a guided gratitude journal that provides prompts for you to talk about what you’re grateful for each day.

> In true Peanuts style, A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving is about friendship and being together with a few of the gang’s silly snafus and life lessons along the way.

> Gratitude is my Superpower teaches kids that happiness is about simple things like family and friends and that gratitude is always in their hearts.

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halloween decor

I LOVE HALLOWEEN. I just think it’s the holiday that begs for THE most creativity and resourcefulness and commitment to the cause; people BRING it for Halloween. I love seeing what people dream up for a holiday that’s designed just for fun. And while I SO appreciate the grimmer and more, um, graphic things that people dream [or nightmare] up to mark the occasion, my version def leans more PG. I’m a bit of a weenie and it doesn’t take much to jump-scare me into nearly wetting my pants, so we keep it pretty Hallmark over here. Fortunately, there is no shortage of Halloween stuff that’s more darling than devilish and I love it.

IF YOU ALSO prefer Halloween decor that won’t scare the pants off your guests, I’ve rounded up some pretty, subtle, elevated things that will have your haunt looking festive, but not freaky, for spooky season. Accents here and there can go a long way to creating a solid Halloween vibe without cackling heads or severed fingers [if that’s your thing, you GO and send me a photo]. To help get even more into the ‘spirit’ of the season, check out the Gift Guide to Halloween and Our Favorite Halloween Books to truly delight your little ghosts and goblins all month long. GIFT A LITTLE HAPPINESS. xo

pretty halloween decor

OOO Geometry’s Halloween-themed Tea Towels, Dinner Napkins and Not-Paper-Towels come in THE best prints, whether you want the ‘spirit’ of the season to be shouted or whispered OOO | Use codeDarcieC15 any day of the year for 15% off

OOO Anthropologie’s huge collection of spooky and gorgeous decor, like these pretty Crow Taper Holders, will elevate any space OOO

OOO I love these sweet handmade Ceramic Ghosts and each one is unique OOO

OOO A PyroPet Cat Candle is a fun way to count down the days to the spooky finale when a skeleton emerges from the wax shell OOO

OOO Love the matte black version of Staub’s Petite Ceramic Pumpkin, it’s perfect for dips or candy and goes straight from oven to table OOO

OOO Oh I love this Fang Wall Art and lots of the other prints by this same artist OOO

OOO This fun set of 3D Bat Stickers sets a vibe that’s not too creepy OOO

OOO Love this cutie canvas Ghost Pillow ethically made in Kenya. There’s also a super adorable Mummy and clever Banners, too OOO

OOO These pretty Bluecorn Beeswax Tapers come in a bunch of colors that will elevate your table for the season OOO

OOO Crate & Barrel’s Haunted Houses come in 3 different sizes and set a fun spooky mood OOO

OOO Both useful and pretty, Skeem’s Glass Match Cloches include a striker and set a mood OOO

OOO These big soft Pumpkin Pillows are a fun squishy accent and can carry you all the way to Thanksgiving OOO

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my favorite clean beauty from beauty heroes

IT CAN be super daunting to have the whole world of clean beauty at your finger tips if you’re not sure where to start, especially when there’s an awesome sale that you want to take advantage of. So, here is a list of some of my TOP clean beauty favorites from Beauty Heroes to get you started. If you want to read more about each one, take a deep dive into My Clean Beauty + Self-Care Favorites or My Day + Night Clean Skincare Routine [some of the products in those posts are linked to different sites, so for a sale, make sure you’re clicking through to Beauty Heroes]. There is so much to love.

IT’S A great time to try something new, stock up on old favorites or snag a fantastic gift for someone special. If you have any questions about my experience with these products, don’t hesitate to reach out, I’m always here for you and I love chatting clean beauty. GIFT A LITTLE HAPPINESS [to yourself]. xo

My favorite clean beauty from Beauty Heroes

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my workout favorites

MOVING MY body in some way everyday isn’t negotiable for me. It’s absolutely essential for both my physical and mental health. It’s how I meditate and process my thoughts. It’s how I work through my challenges and find my creativity. It’s a huge component of keeping my cranky digestion a bit less cranky. And it’s super important to me to model an active lifestyle for my boys and to show them that mama can be just as strong [or stronger] as dad. Most often you’ll find me in the foothills HikeRunning the local trails [yes, I made that up, but I’m sure it’s a thing. I power hike the uphill and run the flats and downhill, so… HikeRun] solo or with a friend, bathing in all of the glorious sights and smells of the forest. Being in nature almost daily is def a huge part of what’s absolutely essential about the whole ritual for me. But, I also weight train a few times a week and have been a dedicated barre student for more than a decade. I do like to mix it up. And some days my ‘workout’ might be a nice chill, soul-filling walk with a friend. I’m for sure not hitting it super hard all of the time, but I’m always moving and that’s what matters to me.

BECAUSE I prioritize my workout over almost all other things in my day, I’m usually left racing around in my sweaty exercise clothes, rarely taking the time to change into something more stylish [or less stinky] before moving on with the rest of my day. So I prefer those workout clothes to be as cute and comfortable as possible. And you guys, I’m 50 and personally not interested in walking around with my midriff hanging out. Or all of my back. Or half of my side boob. And I’m def not sporting a bra as clothes. I’ll leave that to the cutie college kids. To that end, I’ve searched out and tried on a zillion different brands and styles and have found some favorites that both fit me best AND are made with fabrics that I like to sweat in [there’s nothing worse than ‘exercise’ clothes that feel super gross when you actually exercise in them]. The market is positively flooded with brands and styles of athleisure and more serious gear at this point and it’s obvs a super personal thing, unique to each individual’s body and preferences, but I’m sharing a few that I love with you in hopes it might at least narrow the field a bit. Many of these companies are also dedicated to boosting up women and protecting the planet, which makes supporting them that much sweeter. So go get moving, lovelies, in whatever way makes YOU feel good. I hope to see you out there. GIFT A LITTLE HAPPINESS. xo

My workout favorites

> There’s sooo much to love LOVE about Vuori, starting with how insanely soft and comfortable it is; I LIVE in so many of their pieces. My top 4 favorites… the Daydream Crew [I have like 6 colors] is SO lightweight, soft and breathable, has UPF 30 built-in and is a perfect length for my shorter frame. The Studio Pocket Legging is my hands-down favorite tight, they’re comfy and flattering and I love the pocket. The Halo Essential Hoodie is another go-to for chillier days with its easy styling and cute hood [it’s cute with jeans, too] and the Restore Half-Zip Hoodie to get even snugglier. They also have awesome Hip Packs + Slings and Jackets. My husband LOVES his Vuori, too. You just really can’t go wrong. <

> I love Beyond Yoga’s Spacedye Collection. It’s SUPER soft, has beautiful colors and comes in tons of different styles. It feels like you have nothing on, moves well and takes on the sweat with grace. My favorite tights from Beyond Yoga are the Caught in the Midi High Waisted Legging and the Out of Pocket High Waisted Midi Legging. Their leggings def have less compression than some, so keep that in mind if it’s a priority; they’re not gonna suck in and hide ALL of the bits like some fabrics do, but they’re insanely soft and comfortable and cute. I also LOVE the Featherweight Daydreamer Pullover, which is so aptly named. It’s the softest thing that feels like nothing. Their whole line comes in a full range of research-backed extended sizing and maternity, too. Plus I love supporting companies that are actively working to support women and the planet in a meaningful and authentic way. <

> Man, I wish I could do that. But… I can’t. I DO love some of Alo Yoga’s pieces though, like these High-Waist Airlift Leggings. They suck in EVERY little thing, but still move well and are super comfortable. They have just a tiny bit of sheen that’s super cute. And the 7/8 Legging is the perfect length for us shorter gals. I also love the High-Waist Airbrush Legging for colder weather walks + hikes. They’re really soft, but pretty thick, so perfect for keeping warm and super flattering. They also have super chic sweatshirts and tops and sweats for everyday. And teens love this stuff, too. <

> I don’t love everything that Lululemon makes [there’s something about their leggings that does nothing good to my butt], but when I find the right thing from them, it usually becomes a very solid favorite. The Speed Up High-Rise Shorts fit that mold; they’re super comfortable and that flat waistband is perfection [I HATE squeezie tight elastic around my waist]. They don’t ride up and the 4” length is great. I have 4 pairs and I rotate them literally everyday all summer long. I also LOVE LOVE their Love Tanks. I’m super fussy about my tanks and these are just simple perfection. Not too tight, no side boobs hanging out, no back exposed with a perfect racerback and reasonably priced. I wear them every darn day. >

> There are so many things to love about Athleta. I appreciate that they keep women of all sizes and shapes in mind when designing their line. I love their empowerment of women and girls and I love that they’re a Certified B Corp [plus Simone and Alicia, of course]. Now add these Mesh Racer Run Shorts to the list. They’re a perfect length [no cheeks hanging out] and move well and the elastic waistband isn’t all squeezie. I have also worn and loved so many Athleta Leggings and Bras and Sweatshirts over the years, they wash and wear extremely well, they don’t stretch out, don’t pill, don’t snag and are just super high quality all around. I haven’t been feeling any of their styles recently [I hate when they change up a classic], but will always keep checking in to see what’s new and hope for a gem. If you find something you love, snag a few. <

> I know it’s a bit old school, but I still love these Nike Tempo Running Shorts that you probs wore in like 1997. They’re a good length, have a good rise, the elastic isn’t too tight, they dry fast, they’re a good price point and they come in a bazillion colors. Sold. <$30

> I don’t set out without a hat when it’s sunny. I love this Clare V. Ciao Trucker Hat, the color is awesome. I also love to pick up hats when traveling and always opt for the brightest, sunniest one I can find. < $50

> You can’t set out for a hike, run or winter garage workout without some solid thin hand protection like these The North Face Etip Recycled Gloves. They’re lightweight, warm and have touch-screen compatibility. > $45

> Vermont-based Skida makes THE best hats for sweating outdoors. They’re lightweight but warm and they don’t get all stinky. Plus they’re just super cute with a zillion prints to choose from. I love both my Chateau Hat and Alpine Hat and wear them interchangeably all winter long. > from $38

> I got a Geometry Fitness Towel for my sweat and I love it. Yep, my sweat. It lives in my car all summer long, dedicated to mopping up the sweat on my brow after hot trail sessions and to put on my seat when my sweaty back and butt are dripping, too [don’t judge]. It’s super absorbent, quick-drying, odor-resistant, easy to clean and darn cute. It’s the little things, lovelies. Use my links to save 15% off your Geometry order. < $20

> Oh how I love this li’l Cotopaxi Kapai Hip Pack. I use it when I’m on a chill walk with friends, a hike or on the beach. It’s a happy little spot for my phone, chapstick, keys and a snack if need be. It’s kind of perfect. I have dragged it so many places that the front pocket is now full of tiny shells and rocks and treasures that I’ve collected along the way and there’s almost no room for my stuff. But it makes me happy every time I hear them jingle around in there. It comes in a few set colors or opt to ‘be surprised’ by a bright, fun one-of-a-kind Del Dia style. < $35

> I go almost nowhere on a walk, hike, beach or neighborhood bike ride without a hip pack and I love this Topo Designs Dirt Belt Bag. It’s a nice cotton canvas and has a perfect little outside pocket for my phone. It comes in some cute colors, too. > $39

> This SPI Belt [stands for Small Personal Item] is the most brilliant use of a bit of elastic and some stretchy fabric. The Large Pocket is big enough to hold my phone and keys while I’m on the trails. It’s so low profile and comfortable that I often forget I have it on until I get undressed [oops] and it doesn’t move a single inch while I’m running. It’s awesome. < from $20

> I’m not very good at bringing water with me on my casual daily hikes + runs. I just don’t like having anything in my hands and for an hour or so, I don’t feel like I really need it. But come summertime, when I’m working out in near 100 degree heat, it’s just kind of stupid to go out with nothing. So I got this Nathan Trail Mix Plus Pack. It has 2x 10oz bottles and a pocket big enough for my essentials. And it really doesn’t move much while I’m running. It’s perfect for my everyday trail sessions. < $55

> There are few things more annoying while you’re running than your sunglasses bouncing off your nose with every stride. It makes me nuts. But Goodr OGs totally solve it, they’re perfection. They’re lightweight, stay in place, are polarized and somehow universally flattering, they come in a million colors and are super inexpensive. Plus they participate in 1% for the Planet. Win win win win win win win. < $25

> I have tried a bunch of different brands of socks because it just makes a difference and I love these Balega Ultraglide Friction-Free No Shows. They’re not too thick or too thin and I think their sizing is pretty spot on [my size 6.5/7 feet are often in between sock sizes and these smalls are perfect]. They’re super durable, too. And cute, so there. Balega makes a bunch of different styles depending on your preferences, so you’re sure to find something that you love. < from $17

> I’ve been taking barre classes for more than 10 years and these TAVI Grip Socks are my favorites. They come in a zillion different styles, prints and colors and they grip really well. I hang them to dry to prolong their stickiness. < $18

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