Today’s post is a bit of a departure from my usual content, but I believe there’s power in sharing our personal experiences – both our triumphs and setbacks. So, if you’ll allow me some vulnerability, I’d love to share how I recently overcame a few struggles.
For roughly five years I worked out at least five days a week without fail. Most of those workouts consisted of HIIT running, light resistance training, dancing, and hiking. However, numerous life changes began to compound about two years ago and I let my work outs slip, and my nutrition followed suit.
Before I knew it, I’d gained weight. Although I would still workout during this period, I wasn’t consistent and when it comes to being in fit, I’ve found consistency is the key. I thought if I just “started” my old routine again, I’d bounce right back, but the saying “what got you here won’t get you there” is popular for a reason.
Trying to force my way into prior rhythms and plans just wasn’t working, which made me feel like a failure, which made me give up, which made my progress stall. It was a vicious cycle and I spent about 18 months spinning my wheels. I felt as though I’d lost an essential part of myself and I wasn’t sure how to find me again.
After those starts and stops with trying to get back into shape, I realized I needed a different approach. And part of that approach meant that I couldn’t do this all on my own. In late summer I made the decision to work with an accountability coach to help me get back on track with my fitness and nutrition. From late July through late October, I worked with Sam Hyndrich owner of Your Accountability Bestie.
I feel like I have my “sparkle” back again!
Although it wasn’t clear exactly how, when, or where I’d lost me, during my first client meeting with Sam, I knew I’d made the right decision because through her words and demeanor in that initial meeting, it was clear that she saw the real me. The version of me that had gotten buried somewhere along the line and believed my dreams and goals should come second, third, or even dead last, to every day life stuff (laundry, house, taking care of others).
I chose to work with Sam because of how she made me feel seen from the very beginning, and because I just had a gut feeling that she’d be able to help me find the hole in my plans that were keeping me stuck.
I also knew going into the three month block of working with her that I’d be challenged to give up my excuses, to put in work, and to stay committed to myself. She created workout and meal plans that worked with my lifestyle and interests, since much of my movement centered around things I love to do like dance classes and going on HIIT runs. Sam also challenged me to increase my protein intake, which helped me to maintain a higher level of energy daily and not get cranky in the afternoons (if I’m hangry you better watch out!)
I’m not at my goal weight yet, but I enjoy getting dressed up again and like what I see in the mirror (and yes, I know I should’ve closed the closet door before taking this selfie *facepalm*)
After one month of working with her, I lost close to ten pounds and several inches, but there was something even greater that I lost: my desire to put other people’s needs above my own. That’s not to say I stopped caring for others, but rather, I made sure I filled my cup first.
As our relationship grew, during our regular client check-ins, Sam would ask me to look a bit deeper within, encouraging me to share not only my wins with her, but also what I was struggling with. During these moments I started to look at other aspects of my life, like personal and professional goals that I’d been toying with but for one reason or another, they kept making their way to the backburner.
One of those goals was related to my writing career and I’m happy to report that I’m working on some creative goals I abandoned years ago, as well as refining my focus on this website, which will go into effect in January!
I still have a ways to go toward reaching my fitness and personal/professional goals. Because she’s a coach that works with clients across a broad spectrum of goals – from personal, fitness, business, relationship, and more – I am continuing to work with Sam in a professional capacity to help me stay accountable, reach for bigger goals, and refine plans when needed.
On a recent trip to Idaho, my husband and I hiked up Mineral Ridge, a 3 mile loop with a pretty significant elevation gain. It was challenging since I hadn’t done a hike like this in over five years. When I got to the top I was so proud of myself, and the first person I wanted to share my achievement with was Sam, so of course I texted her this selfie 🙂
If you’re ready to make changes, consider working with Sam to help you get where you want to go faster. And, I know cost can be a barrier for many, however, without giving away the exact pricing structure, I will say that the three-month cost for working with her breaks down to being roughly the same as going out for a latte and sweet treat a few times a week and my friend, ain’t no coffee shop treat gonna make you feel as good as investing in YOU.
This week there’s lots of fall events like markets and other shopping experiences, aspiring bakers can attend a sourdough workshop, and there’s numerous Trunk or Treat events happening. You can find all the Halloween-related events happening through 11/2 here.
Tuesday, Oct. 28 Discover the art of sourdough while learning how it can benefit your gut at Roux 66 in Washington. In this hands-on class, you’ll mix, shape, and practice the techniques behind creating a delicious sourdough loaf and explore why sourdough is easier to digest than conventional breads, and how fermented foods can support a healthier gut microbiome. Register here.
Tuesday, Oct. 28 The Washington Public Library is hosting a Teen Haunted Gingerbread House Make & Take. Drop in and construct a haunting “gingerbread” house out of graham crackers, frosting, and candies. All materials will be provided. Ages 12 & Up. Register here.
Wednesday, Oct. 29 Swallows Nest Boutique and Cafe in Washington is hosting a Shoptober event from 3-8 p.m. Shop, sip, dine, and get a tarot card reading for $20. Get more info.
Wednesday, Oct. 29 Shiloh Baptist Church in Robertsville is having a Fall Festival and Trunk or Treat. The event will have free food and kids activities. Learn more.
Thursday, Oct. 30 Head to St. Clair Library for a Trick R Treat event that includes games, candy and fun. Find out more.
Thursday, Oct. 30 Lost Hill Lake Weddings and Event venue in St. Clair is hosting a Halloween themed Puff n’ Paint event. Get more info and register here.
Friday, Oct. 31 Looking for a fun & safe trunk-or-treat? Watermark Church located at 41 St Andrews Drive in Union will have hot dogs, popcorn, candy & other fun treats from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Learn more.
Friday, Oct. 31 Get the caffeine you’ll need to fuel your Halloween plans! On Halloween morning, Just Hank’s coffee trailer will be parked at RC Roofing on Fifth St. in Washington and the first 100 customers will receive a free coffee! Get more info including times.
Friday, Oct. 31 First Baptist Church in Belle will host a night full of family-friendly fall fun including games for all ages to play, a cake walk, bounce house, hot dogs, popcorn, cotton candy and so much more! Find out time and location.
Friday, Oct. 31 Free kid friendly indoor and outdoor fun at the Fall Fling at Life Stream Church in Washington. The event includes Trunk or Treat, bounce houses, games, hotdogs, and candy. Learn more.
Saturday, Nov. 1 The St. Clair Saddle Club is hosting a free family fun night. Get all the details.
Saturday, Nov. 1 Autumn Nights is an adults shopping experience in downtown Washington. Visit multiple businesses for fun, food, and shopping. Learn more.
Saturday, Nov. 1 & Sunday, Nov. 2 Area St. Louis artists are hosting a boutique show at Shaw Nature Reserve. Featured artwork includes ceramic, wood and metal sculpture, painting, folk art, photography, jewelry, basketry, and more on display and available for purchase throughout the rustic cabins at the Dana Brown Overnight Center. Get more info.
Road Trippin’
Take a little road trip to some of these events happening within a short drive of Franklin County.
Multiple dates and times in Oct. Think you’re brave enough to venture into Terror on Route 66? Step into this haunted attraction in Sullivan for the ultimate in spine-tingling entertainment. Get more info.
Moms. Busy women. Goal-getters. You don’t have to do it alone. Fitness. Fuel. Focus. Grab your FREE guide!
Monday,Oct. 27 Think you know your horror, from slashers to campy creeps? Put your spooky smarts to the test at our Halloween Spooktacular Trivia Night—a frightfully fun evening of laughs, drinks, and horror-movie bragging rights at Brookdale Farms. Rounds will cover iconic Halloween films, monsters, haunted history & lore, and seasonal pop culture. Costumes encouraged! Dress as your favorite monster or Halloween icon—the best costume wins a prize. Learn more.
Friday, Oct. 31 New Salem Baptist Church in Owensville is having a Trunk ‘R Treat in Maciejewski’s Parking Lot in Owensville. The event features free treats, free hotdogs, trunk decorating contest, and more! Get more info.
Friday, Oct. 31 First Baptist Church in Belle will have games for all ages to play, including a cake walk, a bounce house, face painting, hot dogs, popcorn, cotton candy and, a pet costume contest. Learn more.
Saturday, Nov. 1 Maggie Grace’s on Main in Warrenton is hosting a Fall/Christmas Market. Get the details.
Saturday, Nov. 1 St. John the Baptist School in Villa Ridge will have a Trunk or Treat along with a haunted forest and hayride beginning at 5 p.m. Get the details.
Multiple dates and times until Nov. 2 Six Flags St. Louis in Eureka is the home of Fright Fest, happening on select nights until Nov. 2. Find haunted mazes, scare zones, live shows, and more. Learn more.
From family-friendly trick-or-treating, to adult block parties and celebrations, to spooky-themed markets, haunted houses and other frightening experiences, there’s no shortage of Halloween-themed events happening this month! So mark your calendar, grab your costume, and get ready for some spine-tingling fun.
Thursday, Oct. 16 Head to Hermann for the town’s annual Witches & Wine event. This 21+ event will have music, wine, shopping, and more. Get all the info.
Friday, Oct. 17 Free Halloween Carnival and Trunk or Treat at St. Gertrude Parish & School in Krakow. The trunk or treat will happen in the parking lot, with concessions available in the cafeteria. Learn more.
Friday, Oct. 17 It’s the 2nd Annual Trunk or Treat at The Sage Bee in Washington. In addition to the trunk-or-treat lineup, the teachers are planning some sensory stations and fun Halloween activities and games for the kids to enjoy! Open to the public, anyone is welcome! Find out more.
Friday, Oct. 17 St. Vincent De Paul School in Marthasville is hosting a Trunk or Treat event from 6:30-9 p.m. Find food, candy, and prizes for the best trunk! More info.
Friday, Oct. 17 & Saturday, Oct. 18 The 2nd Annual U Town Show Down is happening at the Union Fairgrounds and will feature a car show, semi truck show, a trunk or treat, plus a derby, and food trucks. Find out more.
Friday, Oct. 17 Head to Pacific for the Witches and Warlocks, adult street party. This event will feature vendors, food trucks and live music by Covering Fire, as well as costume contests, raffle drawings, and more. Learn more.
Friday, Oct. 17 It’s the final Union Farmers Market of the season! Visit the market to shop vendors, get food from Savy’s Food Truck, enjoy live music, and bring the little ones for the Trunk or Treat happening during the market. Find out more.
Friday, Oct. 17 You won’t want to miss Trunk or Treat at The River at Eureka. There will be games, crafts, snow cones, popcorn, hot dogs, a smores station, an outdoor movie, and more. This is a free event from 6-8 p.m. and all are welcome! Learn more.
Moms. Busy women. Goal-getters. You don’t have to do it alone. Fitness. Fuel. Focus. Grab your FREE guide!
Friday Oct. 17 & Saturday, Oct. 18; Friday, Oct. 24 – Saturday, Nov. 1 Step Into The Hollows at Brookdale Farms in Eureka. This is a haunted walking trail where every rustle, flicker, and shadow may not be what it seems. Journey through winding paths shrouded in fog and darkness, guided only by lantern light and the pounding of your heart. Whispers in the trees, figures that vanish into the night, and sudden terrors at every turn will keep you on edge until the very end. Learn more.
Saturday, Oct. 18 Meramec State Park in Sullivan is hosting a Halloween Spooktacular. Head to the campground area of the park for pumpkin carving, trick or treating, a movie at the amphitheater, and more. Find out more.
Saturday, Oct. 18 Ladies, Littles, and Lattes is hosting its second annual Trick or Treat Trail in Union. This day time event features indoor trick or treating, plus fun activities like a bounce house, horse rides, face painting, and food trucks Savy’s Food Truck, Smokey D’s, and Poppy Co. Get more info.
Saturday, Oct. 18 Head to The Tipsy Keg in Washington for a night of fun and costumes at the venue’s BOOze and BOOs event. Guests can expect karaoke, drink specials, costume contests, and more. Find all the details.
Saturday, Oct. 18 It’s Hallowine at St. James Winery. This ticketed event will include wine slushies, a wine and candy flight, tarot card readings, a haunted wine cellar tour, plus contests for the best witches cackle and best costume. Learn more.
Saturday, Oct. 18 The Novel Nook and Yarn Together are hosting a Witch and Stitch party. At this free event, guests will watch the movie “Hocus Pocus” while working on their current fiber arts project (if they choose). The event is free, but registration is required to attend. Get the details and register.
Saturday, Oct. 18 American Legion in Washington is having a Tank or Treat from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. This event is for children up to age 12. Learn more.
Saturday, Oct. 18 & Sunday, Oct. 19 Prairie Barn Winery in St. James is hosting a Murder Mystery Weekend, and the theme is Witch Way to the Wine. With two showings, the event will feature food and complimentary water and tea, with wine and beer available for purchase. Attendees of the murder mystery dinner are encouraged to dress in costume. Get tickets.
Sunday, Oct. 19 Clancy’s Pour House in Rosebud is hosting a pop-up family movie and bonfire night with the showing of the film “Hocus Pocus.” The fun begins at 6 p.m. Find out more.
Tuesday, Oct. 21 Head to East Central College for a fun, family-friendly showing of the movie “Hocus Pocus.” A suggested donation of $5 (to benefit United Way). Learn more.
Thursday, Oct. 23 Union better prepare for some Witches on the Loose! Grab your girlies and take part in this spooky season GNO. Dress in your favorite witch garb and enjoy a themed cocktail by Sip on Main, dance to music, and dine on food from a food truck. Visit Andy’s on Facebook for updates!
Friday, Oct. 24 St. Ann’s Catholic Church is hosting a Halloween bash and Trunk or Treat starting at 6:30 pm. Held in the upper level of the parish center and the parking lot. Activities include bounce house, face painting, goat petting zoo, pumpkin painting, coloring pages, snacks and drinks. Get more info.
Friday, Oct. 24 Witches Night Out in Steelville will feature food, drinks, and vendors, along the sidewalks of Main Street. Learn more on Facebook.
Friday, Oct. 24 Head to Union for the Halloween Boo Bash, which will be the city’s annual Trunk or Treat event happening at Union City Park. Get more info.
Friday, Oct. 24 Prairie Barn Winery in St. James is hosting a Halloween themed tacos and trivia night. The Werewolves, Witches, and Warlocks trivia night begins at 5:30 p.m., with tacos available for purchase from Space Boys Tacos food truck. Get more info.
Saturday, Oct. 25 The Washington Elks and local businesses are hosting their Annual Trunk or Treat event. Find out more.
Saturday, Oct. 25 Meramec Ambulance District is hosting its 2nd Annual Halloween Carnival. Come out to the District’s Station 1 in Pacific from 4:30-7:30 for games, drinks, snacks, pumpkin painting, and more. Get address and other details.
Saturday, Oct. 25 The final St. Clair Farmers Market of the season will be a Halloween Market as well. Wear your costumes and bring the kids along for a day time trunk or treat, and don’t forget it’s your final opportunity of the year to shop from the local vendors! Learn more.
Saturday, Oct. 25 Four Rivers YMCA in Washington is hosting its annual Boo Bash, and this year there will be a Trunk of Treat and a movie. Learn more.
Saturday, Oct. 25 Priority Fitness in St. Clair is having a Trunk or Treat from 5-7 p.m. in the gym parking lot. The public is welcome to participate in the event, so adults bring your trunks and your kiddos for a fun evening. Find the gym on Facebook.
Saturday, Oct. 25 The St. Clair Police Department is hosting its annual Trunk or Treat from 5-8 p.m. inside City Hall Gym. Expect lots of candy, Halloween decor, and a family-friendly environment. Find out more.
Saturday, Oct. 25 The Spooktacular Festival is back for its 2nd year—packed with thrills, treats, and family fun! This free community event (food & drinks available for purchase) is a must-attend celebration of fall in Sullivan. Get all the details.
Saturday, Oct. 25 Downtown Union transforms into a haunted haven for Scare on the Square! Enjoy a pop-up scary movie, haunted hayride, spooky vendors, food trucks, and drinks for the brave. This year’s event is geared toward teens and adults—come for the scares, stay for the thrills! Find out more.
Saturday, Oct. 25 Bring the family to Brookdale Farms in Eureka for a spooky-fun night of campfires, s’mores, music, games, and more at Broomsticks & Bonfires. Costumes encouraged for all ages! Learn more.
Saturday, Oct. 25 The Gerald Lion’s Club is hosting a Trunk or Treat from 5-7 p.m. on Main Street in Gerald. There will also be free hot dogs while they last and $2 s’mores kits to make your own over the firepit. Get the details.
Saturday, Oct. 25 Pinckney Bend Distillery will host 3 professional storytellers for an evening of sharing spooky tales at its Nightmare on Miller event. Enjoy themed drinks and food available for purchase during the event. Learn more.
Saturday, Oct. 25 The Washington Farmers Market is the site of the town’s annual Pumpkin Palooza event. Expect a full of family fun like pony rides, story time, a balloon artist, baking and costume contests, trick-or-treating, and more. Get the full scoop.
Sunday, Oct. 26 Head to College United Methodist Church in Warrenton for a trick or treat style fall event where participants are encouraged to be creative and not use a trunk! Don’t forget to wear your Halloween costumes! Get more details.
Sunday, Oct. 26 The Garage Bar in Treloar is having a Trunk or Treat in its parking lot. The treating begins at 2:30 p.m., and the establishment will also offer food and drink specials. Find more on Facebook.
Sunday, Oct. 26 The Washington Police Department will host its annual First Responder Trunk or Treat event at the Washington Fairgrounds from 2-4 p.m. Learn more.
Tuesday, Oct. 28 The Washington Public Library is hosting a Teen Haunted Gingerbread House Make & Take. Drop in and construct a haunting “gingerbread” house out of graham crackers, frosting, and candies. All materials will be provided. Ages 12 & Up. Register here.
Tuesday, Oct. 28 Brookdale Farms in Eureka is hosting its annual Country Nights Halloween Party! Break out your best costume, bring your favorite treats to share, and let’s boot-scoot the night away. Best Costume wins a prize! Learn more.
Wednesday, Oct. 29 Participate in a Table Top Trick or Treat event at Grandview Healthcare in Washington. Enjoy face painting, games, and candy at this event from 5-7 p.m. Find out more.
Wednesday, Oct. 29 Shiloh Baptist Church in Robertsville is having a Fall Festival and Trunk or Treat. The event will have free food and kids activities. Learn more.
Thursday, Oct. 30 Lost Hill Lake Weddings and Event venue in St. Clair is hosting a Halloween themed Puff n’ Paint event. Get more info and register here.
Friday, Oct. 31 Get the caffeine you’ll need to fuel your Halloween plans! On Halloween morning, Just Hank’s coffee trailer will be parked at RC Roofing on Fifth St. in Washington and the first 100 customers will receive a free coffee! Get more info including times.
Friday, Oct. 31 Dare to head to Sullivan’s historic Harney Mansion for a unique Trunk or Treat event! And for the truly brave, step into the spooky mansion and mingle with some hair-raising boys and ghouls haunting the hallways. Learn more.
Friday, Oct. 31 The St. Clair Elks is having a Boo Bash that includes a Trunk or Treat, live music, as well as free chili and hot dogs. Get more info.
Friday, Oct. 31 McKelvey Vineyards is hosting a Monster Mash just in time for Halloween! There will be line dancing lessons, a bonfire with s’mores kits available for purchase, drink specials, free candy, and a costume contest. No cover charge for the event. Find out more on Facebook.
Saturday, Nov. 1 St. John the Baptist School in Villa Ridge will have a Trunk or Treat along with a haunted forest and hayride beginning at 5 p.m. Get the details.
Multiple dates and times in Oct. Think you’re brave enough to venture into Terror on Route 66? Step into this haunted attraction in Sullivan for the ultimate in spine-tingling entertainment. Get more info.
Multiple dates and times until Nov. 2 Six Flags St. Louis in Eureka is the home of Fright Fest, happening on select nights until Nov. 2. Find haunted mazes, scare zones, live shows, and more. Learn more.
Whew! There’s so much happening this week! Trunk or treats, adult Halloween celebrations, and spooky fun? Yep. Fall festivals, free outdoor movies, and markets? Got those too! Plus, there’s line dancing at a local winery, a wine dinner at a local restaurant, car shows, and a whole lot more.
Tuesday, Oct. 14 Make a bubbling cauldron at the monthly Crafting & Creativity event at the Washington Public Library. The event is from 6-7 p.m. and is open for ages 12+. Register for the event.
Wednesday, Oct. 15 Mangia Bella restaurant in Washington is hosting a wine dinner. This five-course dinner requires a reservation, which can be made through open table. Find out more.
Friday, Oct. 17 Take part in some beginner friendly line dancing at McKelvey Vineyards from 6-9 p.m. Get more info.
Friday, Oct. 17 On the third Friday of each month, The Washington Coffee Shop hosts an Open Mic Night. Singers, musicians, poets, and spoken word artists are welcome to share their talents with the crowd. Learn more at The Washington Coffee Shop’s Facebook page.
Friday, Oct. 17 It’s the final Union Farmers Market of the season! Visit the market to shop vendors, get food from Savy’s Food Truck, enjoy live music, and bring the little ones for the Trunk or Treat happening during the market. Find out more.
Friday, Oct. 17 Create a stained glass pumpkin at a class held at Shattered Glass in Washington. No experience is necessary to participate in the class, but registration is required. Get more info.
Friday, Oct. 17 Free Halloween Carnival and Trunk or Treat at St. Gertrude Parish & School in Krakow. The trunk or treat will happen in the parking lot, with concessions available in the cafeteria. Learn more.
Friday, Oct. 17 It’s the 2nd Annual Trunk or Treat at The Sage Bee in Washington. In addition to the trunk-or-treat lineup, the teachers are planning some sensory stations and fun Halloween activities and games for the kids to enjoy! Open to the public, anyone is welcome! Find out more.
Friday, Oct. 17 St. Vincent De Paul School in Marthasville is hosting a Trunk or Treat event from 6:30-9 p.m. Find food, candy, and prizes for the best trunk! More info.
Moms. Busy women. Goal-getters. You don’t have to do it alone. Fitness. Fuel. Focus. Grab your FREE guide!
Friday, Oct. 17 Head to Pacific for the Witches and Warlocks, adult street party. This event will feature vendors, food trucks and live music by Covering Fire, as well as costume contests, raffle drawings, and more. Learn more.
Friday, Oct. 17 & Saturday, Oct. 18 The 2nd Annual U Town Show Down is happening this Friday and Saturday at the Union Fairgrounds and will feature a car show, semi truck show, plus a derby, and food trucks. Find out more.
Friday, Oct. 17 & Saturday, Oct. 18 Gerald Area Library and Once Upon a Time Bookstore is hosting a sidewalk sale. Find quilts, needlework, purses, ribbon, DVDs, CDs, audiobooks, books, puzzles, and much more. Get all the details.
Saturday, Oct. 18 Cinema 1 Plus in Washington is hosting a free drive-in movie showing of the film “Five Nights at Freddy’s.” Parking is first come, first served, and concessions are available. Get more info, including movie time.
Saturday, Oct. 18 Meramec State Park in Sullivan is hosting a Halloween Spooktacular. Head to the campground area of the park for pumpkin carving, trick or treating, a movie at the amphitheater, and more. Find out more.
Saturday, Oct. 18 Andy’s Produce in Union is hosting a Fall Vendor event. Find handmade items, food trucks, locally made goods, plants, produce, and more. Get more details.
Saturday, Oct. 18 Muddy Banks Brewing Co. in Sullivan is hosting its annual Opetober Fest, to celebrate the release of its Opetober Marzen beer. The festivities begin at noon and include live music and a chili cook-off. Learn more.
Saturday, Oct. 18 Ladies, Littles, and Lattes is hosting its second annual Trick or Treat Trail in Union. This day time event features indoor trick or treating, plus fun activities like a bounce house, horse rides, face painting, and food trucks Savy’s Food Truck, Smokey D’s, and Poppy Co. Get more info.
Saturday, Oct. 18 Head to The Tipsy Keg in Washington for a night of fun and costumes at the venue’s BOOze and BOOs event. Guests can expect karaoke, drink specials, costume contests, and more. Find all the details.
Saturday, Oct. 18 The Franklin County Humane Society is hosting Paw Fest from 3-9 p.m. There will be games, food trucks, a market, and information about the cuddly four-legged friends FCHS helps. Find out more.
Saturday, Oct. 18 The Moose Lodge in Union is holding a Craft Fair. Stop by the event to shop local crafters and makers. Find event time and more.
Freelance Services offers residential architecture and design services. “My goal is to make your home your castle.”
Saturday, Oct. 18 The Novel Nook and Yarn Together are hosting a Witch and Stitch party. At this free event, guests will watch the movie “Hocus Pocus” while working on their current fiber arts project (if they choose). The event is free, but registration is required to attend. Get the details and register.
Saturday, Oct. 18 American Legion in Washington is having a Tank or Treat from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. This event is for children up to age 12. Learn more.
Road Trippin’
Take a little road trip to some of these events happening within a short drive of Franklin County.
Thursday, Oct. 16 – Sunday, Oct. 19 Autumn Glow Festival is lighting up Eureka Thursdays-Sundays this fall at Brookdale Farms. This enchanting night walk, inspired by traditional Chinese lantern festivals, is the perfect autumn outing for friends and families. Explore 100s of intricately crafted lanterns, enjoy live acrobatic shows, try tasty local food, and discover a world of festive fun for all ages. Learn more.
Friday, Oct. 17 You won’t want to miss Trunk or Treat at The River at Eureka. There will be games, crafts, snow cones, popcorn, hot dogs, a smores station, an outdoor movie, and more. This is a free event from 6-8 p.m. and all are welcome! Learn more.
Friday, Oct. 17 Owensville is hosting a series of free, family-friendly movies this fall, with the final event culminating in a special “campfire” viewing of the animated film “Coco” on Friday, October 17. The movie will be shown at Buschman Park in Owensville, and will start at 6:30 p.m. Find out more.
Friday Oct. 17 & Saturday, Oct. 18 Step Into The Hollows at Brookdale Farms in Eureka. This fall, the woods come alive. Deep in the shadows of Brookdale Farms lies The Hollows—a haunted walking trail where every rustle, flicker, and shadow may not be what it seems. On this immersive haunted experience, you’ll journey through winding paths shrouded in fog and darkness, guided only by lantern light and the pounding of your heart. Whispers in the trees, figures that vanish into the night, and sudden terrors at every turn will keep you on edge until the very end. Learn more.
Friday, Oct. 17 – Sunday, Oct. 19 Happening every weekend in October, Hermann Oktoberfest features beer, food, music, games, and more. Get all the details.
Saturday, Oct. 18 Owensville Parks & Rec Dept. is hosting Market in the Park Saturday, October 18 from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. in Memorial Park, along Hippy Holler, at 796 Parker Drive, Owensville, MO 65066. Bargain hunters won’t want to miss this sale. Severe weather reschedule will be 10/19. Get more info.
Saturday, Oct. 18 It’s Hallowine at St. James Winery. This ticketed event will include wine slushies, a wine and candy flight, tarot card readings, a haunted wine cellar tour, plus contests for the best witches cackle and best costume. Learn more.
Saturday, Oct. 18 Head to Papa’s Diner/Super Smoker’s BBQ in Eureka for the Gearheads and Grub event. Find live music, food, cars, and more. Find out more.
Saturday, Oct. 18 The 573 Vintage Market in Linn will feature 50+ handpicked, upscale, one-of-a-kind vendors, plus food trucks and much more. Find more info.
Saturday, Oct 18 This Saturday is the final Starry Sky Nights program of the year at Onondaga State Park in Leasburg. The public is invited to meet in front of the visitor center to view the unobstructed night sky and learn about some of the objects that can be seen. Astronomy experts will be demonstrating the use of telescopes and identifying stars and planets. Get more info.
Saturday, Oct. 18 & Sunday, Oct. 19 Prairie Barn Winery in St. James is hosting a Murder Mystery Weekend, and the theme is Witch Way to the Wine. With two showings, the event will feature food and complimentary water and tea, with wine and beer available for purchase. Attendees of the murder mystery dinner are encouraged to dress in costume. Get tickets.
Sunday, Oct. 19 Clancy’s Pour House in Rosebud is hosting a pop-up family movie and bonfire night with the showing of the film “Hocus Pocus.” The fun begins at 6 p.m. Find out more.
Small Town Socialite 