Howl-oween Paw-ty: Marion County Humane Society + CenterState Bank

There were so many local Halloween activities going on that it was hard to choose which ones to attend. This event supported a local organization that was close to my heart so I had to go! The Marion County Humane Society is our county’s only no-kill shelter. They do amazing work and I support their effort whenever I can. When I homeschooled my kids, our homeschool group collected food and blankets for them, and I always donate items that I’m getting rid of to their thrift store.

Howl-oween Paw-ty: Marion County Humane Society + CenterState Bank

This was a free event for the community and all they asked was a food donation for the shelter animals. We bought two large bags of dry dog food and a few cans of cat food.

Loralye dressed up in her Elsa Halloween costume. We bought two Elsa dresses for her, one was a full length gown and more elaborate so we saved that for Halloween and bought this one for events and school since it was shorter. She can also use it for dress-up play after Halloween and the longer one will go in her memory box.

She was mesmerized by Jessica, the Mahi Mahi Mermaid who was so patient with all her questions. After we did trunk or treating for about an hour, Loralye even asked if we could go back and see her again.

The people and businesses that hosted a trunk or treat were the best! They were all so friendly and had the best candy! Loralye enjoyed looking at each vehicle and asking them questions about their decorations.

One of the organizations there was Service Dogs for Patriots. They work with North Central Florida combat veterans with PTSD and pair them with a service dog. Then, they train them as a team from start to finish. We got to meet Charles J Hubert, Staff Sergeant (US Army retired) and Liberty, CGC and talk to them for a while. If you can, please support this organization in any way you can. They’re doing much-needed work.