I love holidays and spending time with my family, but my absolute favorite holiday has always been Halloween. I mean, what's not to love? It's the one day a year (or maybe a week, if you're into celebrating that much) when you can dress up and be anything you want to be...a cat, Darth Vader, an Indian, a gumball machine...get creative.

Growing up my family has always made Halloween into a big deal and that's probably why I love it so much. Halloween doesn't have to be a hassle, here's how to make the most out of your Halloween.

Celebrate it up: You know, make the most of it. There's always tons of themed events leading up to Halloween and do as much as you can and get into it, get dressed up, bob for those apples, eat all that chili, and roast those marshmallows for your smore's.

Plan your Costume(s): Know what you want to dress up as before the time comes. One year, I was a devil one night, and a witch the next. Look up ideas and figure out what you could work the most.

Create a budget & keep it cheap: Halloween can be expensive if you let it. There are so many creative DIY costumes you can come up with, the internet can be your best friend. You don't have to spend $50 on a costume. I save every costume I have ever worn and put it in a box in my closet and re-wear them in different ways. When I dressed up as a devil I bought the kit at Wal-Mart for $5 and it had a red tail, bow tie, and horns. Then I just wore a red dress and my costume was a good to go.

Have time for friends and for family: I always go to one or two Halloween parties with my friends and then spend time with my family. My family has an annual bonfire a couple of weekends before Halloween and, unfortunately, I wasn't able to go this year but I usually go and have a great time. I also helped in the trunk-or-treat at my church. My mom and I decorated her car and passed out candy to all of the little kids dressed up in their adorable costumes like Bob the Builder, Ninja Turtles, princesses, and it was a great time.

Satisfy your sweet tooth: Intake as many candy, treats, & sweets as you can. Buy a bowl of candy and just leave it at your house and when people come over to visit it's a nice little treat to have and it's Halloween themed.

Fall adventures: Go to a pumpkin patch, a corn maze, or any Halloween place related and make the most of the fall season!

Haunted Houses: There are tons and tons of haunted houses in numerous locations. There's three in my small hometown. Even if they're crappy, grab a handful of friends and go, experience them, and have fun.

Create a Jack-o-lantern: You don't have to buy an expensive pumpkin at a pumpkin patch. Go to Walmart, grab some friends, and get creative. They also make cute decorations.

Take pictures: You always have to remember to document the memories

Be safe: Have fun, but be safe. Don't take candy from strangers, you never know what they do to it.