Hi Neighbor!

First, the good news: I have a secret talent. Now for the bad news: this talent is pretty random, messy and not the least bit lucrative. So here it is… I carve a mean pumpkin. It all started just after my college graduation, when I was living at home with my parents (#realitybites). The night before Halloween, I asked my mom who was going to carve the pumpkin on our front porch. “You are,” she said and handed me a large butcher knife. So I hacked out two triangle-shaped eyes and a horribly deformed mouth. It looked awful, and I found myself apologizing to trick-or-treaters the following evening.

I told my mom that this pumpkin was a disgrace; surely we could do better. “We?” she asked, raising one eyebrow. The next year I bought some proper pumpkin carving tools, downloaded a jack-o-lantern stencil and got to work. The result was much better, and I even got a couple “Cool pumpkin!” comments. I’ve picked up a few tips and tricks since then, namely super glue and toothpicks will fix anything, ALWAYS carve your pumpkin the night before Halloween (any earlier and it will rot) and stash it out back (or in the refrigerator) on mischief night. My magnum opus was a haunted house I carved back in 2010. It took hours, and no one really cared (plus my husband thought I had lost my mind), but I was thrilled.

This year my oldest daughter wants in on the action, but I’ve been a solo operation for years (#pumpkincarvingproblems).

For all you aspiring pumpkin carvers, here are some easy stencils to get started.

And here are some great pumpkin seed recipes (you weren’t just going to just throw all those seeds away, were you?).

Happy Carving! 
Kate

A FULL PLATE

Our Table, Our Planet: Supper Series
Thursday, November 3rd
6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Riverbend Environmental Education Center
1950 Spring Mill Road, Gladwyne
Join Riverbend and local chef Jennifer McCafferty as we celebrate the best of autumn in the second of our tasty supper series. Enjoy dinner in an intimate setting inside the rustic Snider Barn as you expand your pallet with a multi-course seasonal dining experience. Riverbend’s Director of Education Erin McCool will lead a discussion about the impacts of climate change on farming and our natural world. BYOB. Dinner is served family-style and this is an adults-only event. $60/ticket.
riverbendeec.org

Kids Cook Thanksgiving I: Savory Dinner Favorites
Saturday, November 12th
1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Wayne Art Center
413 Maplewood Avenue, Wayne
Families that cook together, have fun together, and grow closer together! In this very special Family Culinary Workshop, your child will learn how to help prepare a delicious Thanksgiving dinner with chef Chiwishi Joy Abney. This class for parents and children is sure to inspire new family traditions! Please wear closed toed shoes, and tie back long hair. $60/one adult and child. $25 for each additional child. Ages 8 and up.
wayneart.org

Media Restaurant Weeks
First two weeks of November
5:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Downtown Media
Enjoy three- to five-course meals at some of your favorite Media restaurants for $30. (Tax, alcohol and gratuity are not included.) Free parking after 5:00 PM. Reservations are highly recommended.
visitmediapa.com

TASTE: Philadelphia Festival of Food, Wine & Spirits
Friday, October 21st – Sunday, October 23rd
Valley Forge Casino Resort Event Center
1160 First Ave., King of Prussia
This year’s festival showcases the finest in wine, spirits and gourmet foods, along with the talents of local and celebrity chefs. This three-day event will feature award-winning wineries from around the world, celebrity chef demonstrations and food from the best local restaurants.
valleyforge.org

Steven Rea: Hollywood on the Campaign Trail
Wednesday, November 2nd     
7:15 PM – 8:45 PM
Bryn Mawr Film Institute
824 Lancaster Avenue, Bryn Mawr
As the 2016 campaign for the presidency reaches its final, stormy, suspenseful days, join Philadelphia Inquirer contributing movie critic Steven Rea for an evening of election-themed clips culled from close to a dozen classic and forgotten films. 
brynmawrfilm.org

Career Management Series: Stress and Your Career—Calm Your Way to Success     
Wednesday, November 2nd  
7:00 PM
Haverford Township Free Library
1601 Darby Road, Havertown
Stress is a part of life and it affects every one of us differently. High levels of uncontrolled stress for extended periods of time can greatly affect both your personal and professional life.  Join Nicole Pica, founder of Reinvent U, to learn about the steps you can take today to reduce your stress, gain clarity around your purpose, and find your path to a successful career. This program is free, but registration is required. 
haverfordlibrary.org

Growing Up Global
Monday, November 7th  
7:00 PM - 8:40 PM
Ludington Public Library
5 S. Bryn Mawr Avenue, Bryn Mawr
Guest speaker Homa Tavanger (author of the book Growing up Global) will explain how to raise children to be at home in the world. Sponsored by Main Line Newcomers.
lmls.org

OUT IN THE OPEN

They Might (or Might Not) Be Giants: Champion Trees of the Barnes Arboretum
Saturday, October 22nd
10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
Barnes Arboretum (Merion campus)
300 N. Latch's Lane, Merion
The Barnes Arboretum packs nearly 40 state champion trees into its humble 12 acres. Join us for a guided exploration of the arboretum's collection of trees that are the largest known of their kind in Pennsylvania. Led by Bill Rein, Barnes living collections associate and horticulture programs coordinator. $15; members $12. Register online or call 215-278-7200.
barnesfoundation.org

Hocus Pocus Outdoor Movie Night
Saturday, October 22nd
6:30 PM
Outside the Narberth Community Library
80 Windsor Avenue, Narberth
Join us for a family-friendly outdoor movie night to celebrate the spooky season. This 1993 Disney comedy is about three witch sisters that are resurrected in Salem, Massachusetts.
narberthonline.com

Historic Lachford Open House
Sunday, November 13th  
1:00 PM – 4:00 PM    
Tyler Arboretum
515 Painter Road, Media
Drop in and get a behind-the-scenes look at Tyler’s historic homestead. Originally built in 1738, Lachford Hall represents over two centuries of residence by the Minshall-Painter-Tyler family. Hear stories about the daily lives of the eight generations of family members who lived on Tyler’s property for 150 years. Free with regular admission. No pre-registration needed.
tylerarboretum.org

MUSIC, MASKS & MOONLIGHT

Made on the Main Line Concert
Saturday, October 29th
5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Narberth Park
80 Windsor Avenue, Narberth
Featuring local bands, food trucks and fun! All are welcome. Presented by the Harriton High School Student Government (with a little help from the mayor).
narberthonline.com

Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health Hope Gala: A Night in Havana
Saturday, November 5th
7:30 PM
Vie
600 North Broad Street, Philadelphia
The Hope Gala is one of Philadelphia’s most premiere black-tie events, raising hundreds of thousands annually to benefit more than 3,500 children and adults with emotional, behavioral, and cognitive differences served by Devereux in Southeastern Pennsylvania. “A Night in Havana” will feature live and silent auctions, dancing to the popular band London Bridge, and a mojito and cigar patio. There will also be an after party with New York City based DJ, Jasmine Chess.
Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health
A Night in Havana

Boos & Brews for Books Fundraiser
Saturday, November 5th  
7:00 PM – 10:00 PM
The Conservatory at West Laurel Hill Cemetery
215 Belmont Avenue, Bala Cynwyd
Enjoy craft beers from local breweries, delicious wines, light bites, desserts, moonlight tours of the cemetery, music, and a silent auction. (Note: The event takes place indoors, however, the optional tour takes place outdoors.) Attendees must be at least 21 years of age. Tickets are $40 and can be purchased at Belmont Hills Public Library or online. Proceeds benefit the library.
bb4books.eventbrite.com

Masquerade Ball
Friday, October 28th
8:00 PM
Cairnwood Estate
1005 Cathedral Road, Huntingdon Valley
Come in your best dress or suit with a mask for an evening of glamour at a historic level! The estate is excited to welcome you and your guests to an evening of celebration while showcasing cuisine of Sensational Host Catering, fabulous entertainment and festive seasonal décor. Complimentary valet parking service. This event is black tie optional (Fire & Ice Attire) and masks are mandatory for entry. Complimentary wine, beer and signature drinks. Premium liquor and craft beer cash bar.
bahistoricdistrict.org

Haverford High School Halloween Carnival
Thursday, October 27th
Haverford High School West Commons
50 East Eagle Rd., Havertown
Enjoy pizza, candy, games, face-painting, a moon bounce, music, and a costume contest. All children 12 and under are invited to attend and encouraged to wear a costume.
Details 

SET UP SHOP

Shipley Shops
Thursday, October 20th, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Friday, October 21st, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Saturday, October 22nd, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
The Shipley School
814 Yarrow St., Bryn Mawr
A 55-year-old tradition, Shipley Shops brings together over 40 national premier retailers attracting customers from Shipley’s community and beyond. 20 new vendors this year.
Details

Ludington Library’s 2nd Annual Craft Fair
Saturdays, November 12th and November 19th
10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Ludington Public Library
5 S. Bryn Mawr Ave., Bryn Mawr
Over two dozen artisans will be selling their work over two weekends. Different vendors will be present each week with jewelry, clothing, accessories, soaps, candles and more. 
lmls.org

NO TRICKS, JUST TREATS

Cricket Boo
Saturday, October 22nd
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Cricket Avenue, Ardmore
Celebrate Halloween Cricket Avenue style with the ultimate children’s Halloween bash! Join Lulu’s Casita, pucciManuli, Viking Pastries, and the Creative Clubhouse for our 2nd Annual Cricket BOO! Kids of all ages will enjoy a Saturday morning full of ghosts, goblins, games and a whole lotta fun, including trick-or-treating up and down Cricket Avenue, pumpkin decorating, unlimited play at Lulu’s Casita, face painting, a spider web maze, sensory station and much more. $15/child.
cricketavenue.com/cricket-boo

Scare at the Square     
Saturday, October 29th
10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Suburban Square (courtyard)
74 Coulter Avenue, Ardmore
The annual Scare at the Square will feature entertainment, music, crafts and trick or treating at participating retailers.
suburbansquare.com

Family Halloween Party
Sunday, October 30th  
1:30 PM – 2:30 PM
Media-Upper Providence Free Library
1 E. Front Street, Media
A few of our fun activities will include decorating masks, eating spooky snacks, and having a parade around the library! Costumes encouraged. Recommended for ages 2 and up. Please register by October 28th.
mediauplibrary.org 

Witches of Narberth
Saturday, October 29th
1:00 PM
Corner of Forrest and Haverford Aves., Narberth
Before the Halloween Parade and trick-or-treating get started, there's a free family event that's become a Main Line kid favorite – The Witches of Narberth! Halloween kicks off with this popular annual scavenger hunt. Children of all ages are invited to join in this free event, where kids search downtown Narberth high and low for thirteen of the witchiest witches around. They collect treats along the way, and then return to the start to collect a Halloween prize. Costumes are optional, and we'll give you a bag for treats. The hunt goes until 4 pm or until prizes are gone.
Details  

EVERYBODY MARCH

52nd Annual Delaware County Halloween Parade
Saturday, October 29th (rain date: Sunday, October 30th)
2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Downtown Media (State Street)
Everyone’s a kid again when it comes to Halloween horrors and freaky fun! Bring the family for another one of Media’s “monster” street festivals.
visitmediapa.com

Ardmore Halloween Spooktacular
Saturday, October 29th
11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Downtown Ardmore
Join local businesses in celebrating Halloween with a mini-parade, candy hunt, and more!  For a complete schedule of activities visit the Ardmore Business Association at ArdmoreShops.com

Narberth Halloween Parade
Sunday, October 30th
Parade starts at 6:30 PM
Ends at the Park
This free family event is a local classic.  Kids love parading through town in costume every Halloween Eve.  The parade starts at 6:30 PM and ends at the park, where all kids get a free goodie bag.  
More Info

Head of the Schuylkill Regatta
Saturday, October 29th – Sunday, October 30th
8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (both days)
7 Kelly Drive
Boathouse Row, Philadelphia
In addition to hosting thousands of competitors and spectators, the 2016 Regatta—one of the largest rowing competitions in the world—brings elite male and female scullers from around the world for a 2.5-mile race on the Schuylkill River. Parents, family, and friends will line the course to cheer the competitors and enjoy The Three Angels Statues Festival Area, featuring vendors, food, live music and drinks. The best place to watch the regatta is near The Three Angels Statues, approximately one mile from the finish line (Boathouse Row). Here you can get up to the moment information and race announcing from the sports desk and view live streaming of races on monitors in the Festival Tent. The race is free for all spectators and pets are welcome.   
hosr.org

Cooper Norcross Run the Bridge
Sunday, November 6th
8:30 AM
401 N. Delaware Ave., Camden
This 10K certified course begins at the base of the Ben Franklin Bridge on the Jersey side, crosses the bridge, takes you through the waterfront area and finishes at Campbell’s Field. A two-mile walk follows the start of the race and kids events take place at Campbell’s Field during the race. Yards Beer Garden and music at finish. Sign Up:

It Takes theVillage 5K
Saturday, October 22nd
8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
452 S. Roberts Rd., Rosemont
This family event features a cross country style 5K run, 1-mile walk/run and a Kid’s 100 Yard Dash. Proceeds benefit Hope in Action, theVillage mission of providing children and family services in the Philadelphia region.
Details and Registration 

The 1st Annual Philadelphia Costume Dash 5K/10K
Saturday, October 29th
Join thousands of costumed runners at the first annual Costume Dash 5K/10K! Put on your craziest costume and get ready for five or ten kilometers of fun! The fun continues after the run with an after party featuring a costume contest and free gifts from our sponsors, followed by a Pub Crawl! Don't miss out. Start your 2016 Halloween celebration in style!
register.costumedash.com

39th Annual Penn Medicine Radnor Run
Sunday, October 30th
Start Time: 8:30 AM
(Race day registration starts 7:00 AM)
Radnor Township Building
301 Iven Ave., Wayne
Sign up

COLLEGE CONUNDRUMS

College Admissions Workshop
Sunday, October 23rd
3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Bala Cynwyd Library
131 Old Lancaster Rd., Bala Cynwyd
Learn how to navigate the college admission process. Each session covers different topics though the workshops are meant to be experienced as a series. Students and parents welcome.
Details 

Saving for a College Education
Wednesday, October 26th
7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Ludington Library
Learn useful ways to save for your child’s college education. Presented by Bruce Sham of First Financial Group.
Details