Even beloved food holidays like Halloween and Thanksgiving can be filled with polarizing provisions. For instance, at a pumpkin pie recipe share, I couldn't resist telling others the story of how 30 years ago, my immigrant mother — perhaps the world's greatest pumpkin pie opposer — forced down a slice of pie by washing down every bite with water, so as not to seem ungracious at her first Thanksgiving dinner. Have you ever eaten something horrible just to avoid offending a host?

All your Halloween questions are answered here! From a spooky tablescape to the perfect costume for your pet, check out our tips for celebrating the haunted holiday.

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If hosting a large group of people for a huge Halloween bash, definitely serve a punch to drink. However, if you're having a small group of friends over for a pre-going-out dinner, you'll have the time to make everyone a special signature cocktail. Offer them this tantalizing pink-hued concoction — a deathly mix of tequila, lemon juice, and muddled strawberry. There's no sugar in the drink, so it's not sweet, but rather spicy, thanks to the addition of muddled peppercorns. The secret ingredient is absinthe; it provides a subtle anise flavor. To check out the libation's recipe, keep reading.

Now that Starbucks is in 49 countries, its next step is expanding its presence to the high seas. Yesterday brought news that the coffee chain will set sail with its first Starbucks outlet at sea, on Royal Caribbean's Allure of the Seas. The move is undoubtedly geared toward consumers who count on Starbucks for a dependable morning drink.

Like any other location, the ship's store will be staffed with baristas, a full line of Starbucks drinks at what's being called "directionally similar" prices to those on land, and a wide array of Starbucks Via products. "We want that experience to be seamless," Starbucks executive Chris Carr told USA Today.

I must admit that I like the idea. What do you think of a Starbucks presence at sea?