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What is the origin of Halloween?
Halloween, celebrated on October 31st, has its origins in ancient Celtic traditions. The festival known as Samhain marked the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter in It was believed that on the night of Samhain, the boundary between the living and the dead became blurred, allowing spirits to roam the earth.
During Samhain, people would light bonfires and wear costumes to ward off roaming ghosts. They would also leave offerings of food and drink to appease the spirits. The Celtic priests, known as Druids, would perform rituals to predict the future and communicate with the spirit world.
When the Roman Empire conquered the Celtic territories, they incorporated some of their own traditions into the Celtic festivals. One such tradition was a festival called Feralia, which honored the dead. Another was a festival called Pomona, which celebrated the Roman goddess of fruit and trees. These traditions merged with Samhain over time.
In the 8th century, Pope Gregory III designated November 1st as All Saints’ Day, a time to honor all saints and martyrs. The evening before, October 31st, became known as All Hallows’ Eve, which later evolved into Halloween.
Over the centuries, Halloween evolved into a more community-centered holiday. People would go from house to house, dressed in costumes, asking for food or money. This practice eventually became what we now know as trick-or-treating.
As Irish immigrants brought their Halloween traditions to America in the 19th century, the holiday became more widespread and popular. The Irish brought the tradition of carving turnips and later pumpkins into Jack-o’-lanterns, which were used to ward off evil spirits.
Today, Halloween is celebrated with various activities and customs. It is a time for dressing up in costumes, carving pumpkins, attending parties, and going trick-or-treating. Some people also enjoy watching scary movies, visiting haunted houses, or hosting Halloween-themed events.
The commercialization of Halloween has also become a significant aspect of the holiday. Companies now produce and sell an abundance of Halloween-themed products, such as costumes, decorations, and candy. It has become a major industry, with billions of dollars spent each year.
In recent years, there has been a trend towards more inclusive and diverse costumes and celebrations. People are encouraged to be mindful of cultural appropriation and to choose costumes that are respectful and inclusive.
Overall, Halloween is a holiday that has deep roots in ancient Celtic traditions and has evolved over time to become the community-centered, festive holiday that we know today. It is a time for fun, creativity, and celebration, as people come together to embrace the spooky and supernatural.
What is the meaning of Halloween
Traditions to America in the 19th century, the holiday began to take on a more distinct American flavor. The traditions of trick-or-treating, carving pumpkins into jack-o’-lanterns, and bobbing for apples became popular in the United States.
Today, Halloween is celebrated in many countries around the world, although the traditions may vary. It is a time for dressing up in costumes, decorating homes with spooky decorations, and indulging in sweet treats. Halloween parties, haunted houses, and costume contests are common activities during this time.
For business owners and individuals looking to create a memorable Halloween experience, there are many options available. From customizable digital products such as Halloween-themed websites and mobile apps to interactive decorations and props, there are endless possibilities to bring the spirit of Halloween to life.
By utilizing feature-rich and customizable digital products, businesses and individuals can create unique and immersive experiences for their customers or guests. With the right tools and resources, it is possible to design and implement interactive games, virtual reality experiences, and augmented reality displays that will leave a lasting impression.
Whether it is a Halloween-themed website that showcases products or services, a mobile app that offers a virtual trick-or-treating experience, or interactive decorations that engage and entertain guests, the possibilities are endless. With the right digital products, businesses and individuals can create a Halloween experience that will be remembered for years to come.
In conclusion, the origins of Halloween can be traced back to ancient Celtic traditions and Roman festivals.
What are traditional Halloween costumes?
Traditional Halloween costumes are those that are commonly worn by people during the Halloween season. These costumes usually draw inspiration from various cultural, historical, and fictional sources, and are associated with the spooky and supernatural themes of the holiday.
Some examples of traditional Halloween costumes include:
1. Witch: The witch costume is one of the most classic Halloween costumes. It typically features a black dress, a pointed hat, and a broomstick. This costume is inspired by the stereotypical image of witches in folklore and popular culture.
2. Vampire: The vampire costume is another popular choice for Halloween. It often includes a black cape, a white shirt with a high collar, and fake fangs. This costume is associated with the mythical creature that drinks blood and is often portrayed as seductive and mysterious.
3. Ghost: The ghost costume is a simple yet iconic Halloween outfit. It usually involves a white sheet or gown, with cut-out eye holes. This costume represents spirits or souls of the deceased, and is often used to create a spooky and eerie effect.
4. Zombie: The zombie costume is inspired by the undead creatures in horror movies. It typically involves torn and tattered clothing, pale makeup, fake blood, and zombie-like movements. This costume is associated with the idea of reanimated corpses and the apocalypse.
5. Skeleton: The skeleton costume is a classic choice for Halloween. It often consists of a black bodysuit or jumpsuit with printed bones, and a skull mask or face paint. This costume represents the human skeleton, and is often associated with death and the macabre.
6. Mummy: The mummy costume is inspired by the preserved bodies of ancient Egyptians. It usually involves white bandages wrapped around the body, with some exposed skin and a disheveled appearance. This costume is associated with the supernatural and the afterlife.
7. Monster: The monster costume is a broad category that includes various fictional creatures, such as werewolves, Frankenstein’s monster, and creatures from mythology. These costumes often involve masks, prosthetics, and elaborate costumes to create a terrifying and monstrous appearance.
8. Devil: The devil costume is associated with the embodiment of evil and temptation. It typically features a red or black cape, horns, a pitchfork, and sometimes a tail. This costume is often used to portray a sinister and demonic character.
9. Superhero: While not traditionally associated with Halloween, superhero costumes have become a popular choice in recent years. These costumes often feature the iconic outfits of famous superheroes, such as Batman, Superman, or Wonder Woman.
10. Pumpkin: The pumpkin costume is a playful and lighthearted choice for Halloween. It often involves a large orange suit or dress, with a smiling face and green stem on top. This costume represents the iconic symbol of Halloween, the Jack-o’-lantern.
These are just a few examples of traditional Halloween costumes, and there are countless other options to choose from. Whether you want todress up as a witch, a vampire, a ghost, or any other spooky character, there is a costume for everyone’s taste. The origins of Halloween costumes can be traced back to ancient Celtic traditions and folklore.
The Celtic festival of Samhain, which marked the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter, is believed to be the precursor to modern-day Halloween. During Samhain, it was believed that the boundary between the world of the living and the world of the dead was blurred, and spirits and supernatural beings roamed the earth.
To protect themselves from these spirits, people would dress up in costumes and masks to disguise themselves and blend in with the otherworldly entities. They believed that by doing so, they would be able to ward off any evil spirits and ensure their safety during this time of the year.
Over time, as Halloween traditions evolved and Christianity spread throughout Europe, the focus of costumes shifted from the supernatural to the demonic. People began to dress up as witches, devils, and other evil creatures associated with the underworld. This was done as a way to mock and scare away these malevolent beings, rather than appease and protect oneself from them.
In the United States, Halloween costumes became popular in the early 20th century. It was during this time that Halloween parades and parties started to become a common occurrence. People would dress up in costumes and go door-to-door, asking for treats or performing tricks in exchange for treats. This tradition eventually evolved into what we now know as trick-or-treating.
How do people usually decorate for Halloween?
Halloween, one of the most eagerly anticipated holidays of the year, is celebrated with great enthusiasm. People embrace the spirit of Halloween by decorating their homes, offices, and public spaces in a variety of spooky and festive ways. In this blog post, we will explore the most common and popular ways people usually decorate for Halloween.
1. Pumpkin Carvings: The art of carving pumpkins, also known as jack-o’-lanterns, is a long-standing Halloween tradition. People hollow out pumpkins, carve intricate designs or faces into them, and place candles inside to create an eerie glow. From classic triangle-eyed expressions to elaborate and creative designs, pumpkin carvings are a staple in Halloween decorations.
2. Spider Webs and Creepy Crawlies: Spider webs, both fake and real, are commonly used to create a spooky ambiance. They can be drizzled over furniture, hung from ceilings, or stretched across windows and doorways. Adding plastic spiders, bats, or snakes to these webs enhances the creepy effect.
3. Haunted House Themes: Many people go all out by transforming their homes into haunted houses. They use fog machines, dim lighting, and props to create a spooky atmosphere. Cobwebs, skeletons, tombstones, and hanging ghosts are frequently incorporated to give visitors a fright.
4. Ghostly Silhouettes: Ghostly silhouettes are a simple yet effective way to create a Halloween atmosphere. People cut out ghost shapes from white sheets or paper and hang them in windows or from trees. When the wind blows, the ghosts appear to be floating, adding an eerie touch to any space.
5. Outdoor Lighting: Halloween is the perfect time to play with lighting to set the mood. People often use colored or flickering lights to give their homes a haunted or supernatural feel. Orange, purple, and green lights are commonly used to create an otherworldly glow.
6. Scarecrows: Scarecrows are not just for the fall harvest season; they can also be used to decorate for Halloween. People dress up scarecrows in costumes or spooky attire and place them on front porches or in their yards. They can even be positioned to appear as if they are welcoming or scaring off Halloween visitors.
7. Graveyard Scenes: Creating a mini graveyard scene in your yard can add a chilling element to your Halloween decor. People use Styrofoam or cardboard tombstones, fake skeletons, and spider webs to create a spooky cemetery vibe. Adding flickering candles or lanterns to the scene enhances the creepy effect.
8. Witches and Broomsticks: Witches are a staple in Halloween folklore, and they make for great decorations. People hang brooms on doors, position witch hats on scarecrows or mannequins, and even create witch-themed displays in their front yards. Adding cauldrons, spell books, and black cats to the mix completes the witchy atmosphere.
9. Spooky Door Decor: Don’t forget to decorate your front door to set the tone for your Halloween festivities. People often hang spooky wreaths or garlands, add cobwebs and spiders, or place a ghoulish welcome mat. You can also get creative with personalized signs or door hangers that showcase your Halloween spirit.
10. Pumpkin Displays: Of course, no Halloween decor is complete without pumpkins. People carve jack-o’-lanterns with scary faces or intricate designs and place them on their front porch or in their yard. You can also opt for artificial pumpkins that can be reused year after year. Adding fairy lights or candles inside the pumpkins creates a warm and inviting glow.
These Halloween decoration ideas are just a starting point to inspire you to get creative and make your home truly spook-tacular. Whether you go for a haunted house theme or a more subtle approach, the key is to have fun and embrace the spirit of the holiday. Happy decorating!
What are some popular Halloween-themed movies?
Halloween is the perfect time to indulge in some spooky movie marathons. From horror classics to family-friendly favorites, there are plenty of Halloween-themed movies to get you in the spirit. Here are some popular choices that are sure to entertain:
1. “Hocus Pocus” (1993): This beloved family-friendly film follows the adventures of three witches who are resurrected on Halloween night in Salem, Massachusetts. It has become a Halloween staple and is known for its catchy songs and comedic performances.
2. “The Nightmare Before Christmas” (1993): Directed by Tim Burton, this unique and visually stunning stop-motion animated film tells the story of Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, who discovers Christmas and decides to bring his own twist to the holiday.
3. “Halloween” (1978): Considered a horror classic, this slasher film directed by John Carpenter follows the iconic character of Michael Myers as he terrorizes a small town on Halloween night. It spawned a franchise and is known for its suspenseful atmosphere and memorable soundtrack.
4. “Beetlejuice” (1988): Directed by Tim Burton, this dark comedy tells the story of a recently deceased couple who enlist the help of an eccentric ghost named Beetlejuice to scare away the new owners of their home. It is known for its quirky humor and memorable performances.
5. “Ghostbusters” (1984): While not solely focused on Halloween, this supernatural comedy is a popular
What are some traditional Halloween treats and snacks?
Halloween, a holiday celebrated on October 31st, is known for its festive and spooky atmosphere. Apart from costumes and decorations, one of the highlights of this holiday is the variety of treats and snacks that are enjoyed by both children and adults. While the specific treats may vary depending on the region or personal preferences, here are some traditional Halloween treats and snacks that are widely enjoyed:
1. Candy Corn: Perhaps the most iconic Halloween treat, candy corn is a popular choice during this holiday. Its tri-colored, kernel-shaped appearance makes it a festive and tasty snack.
2. Caramel Apples: Another classic Halloween treat, caramel apples are made by dipping apples into melted caramel and allowing them to cool. They are often adorned with various toppings such as chopped nuts, chocolate drizzle, or sprinkles.
3. Pumpkin Seeds: After carving jack-o’-lanterns, don’t let the pumpkin seeds go to waste! Roasting pumpkin seeds with a sprinkle of salt or other seasonings can create a delicious and healthy Halloween snack.
4. Popcorn Balls: Popcorn balls are a favorite Halloween treat that is both fun to make and enjoy. They are made by combining popcorn, melted marshmallows, and butter, then shaping them into balls. They can also be decorated with colorful candies or festive sprinkles.
5. Chocolate Bars: Trick-or-treating is a popular Halloween activity, and one of the most common treats received are chocolate bars. The miniature versions of popular chocolate brands are often handed out to trick-or-treaters, making them a staple Halloween treat.
6. Halloween Cookies: Baking and decorating Halloween-themed cookies is a fun activity for both kids and adults. From spooky ghost-shaped cookies to pumpkin-shaped ones, these treats can be customized with colorful icing and decorations.
7. Pumpkin Pie: While traditionally associated with Thanksgiving, pumpkin pie is also a popular treat during Halloween. Its warm and comforting flavors make it a perfect dessert for the colder autumn season.
8. Candy Apples: Similar to caramel apples, candy apples are made by dipping apples into a sticky candy coating. The candy coating hardens and creates a crunchy shell around the apple, making it a delicious and indulgent treat.
9. Gummy Worms: Gummy worms are a popular candy choice during Halloween due to their creepy and crawly appearance. They can be enjoyed on their own or used as a fun topping for desserts like ice cream or pudding.
10. Halloween Punch: To wash down all the delicious treats, Halloween punch is a refreshing and festive beverage option. It can be made with a variety of ingredients like fruit juices, soda, and even dry ice for a spooky effect.
These are just some of the traditional Halloween treats and snacks that are enjoyed during the holiday. Whether you prefer sweet, salty, or spooky treats, there is something for everyone to enjoy. So, grab your favorite Halloween treat and embrace the festive spirit of this spooktacular holiday!
What is the most popular Halloween candy? Well, that may vary depending on where you are and who you ask, but one thing is for sure – Halloween is a time for costumes, traditions, and of course, candy! In this blog post, we will explore the origins of Halloween costumes and traditions, and how they have evolved over the years.
Costumes have long been a part of Halloween celebrations. The tradition of dressing up on Halloween dates back to ancient Celtic times, when people would wear costumes to ward off evil spirits. They believed that by disguising themselves, they would blend in with the spirits that roamed the earth on All Hallows’ Eve.
Over time, the concept of Halloween costumes evolved and became more elaborate. In the early 20th century, costumes were often homemade and made from materials such as paper and cloth. However, as time went on, the popularity of commercially-produced costumes grew. Today, you can find a wide variety of costumes for people of all ages, from classic characters to contemporary pop culture icons.
Another Halloween tradition that has stood the test of time is the act of trick-or-treating. The origins of this tradition can be traced back to the medieval practice of “souling.” During this time, poor people would go door-to-door, offering prayers for the dead in exchange for food. This practice eventually evolved into the modern-day tradition of children going door-to-door, asking for candy.
As for the most popular Halloween candy, it seems that everyone has their own personal favorite.?
When it comes to Halloween, one thing that kids and adults alike look forward to is the assortment of delicious candies. Every year, trick-or-treaters and party-goers eagerly anticipate filling their bags with sweet treats. But what is the most popular Halloween candy?
According to various surveys and reports, the most popular Halloween candy can vary depending on the region and personal preferences. However, one candy that consistently tops the charts is Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. These delectable treats, with their perfect combination of smooth chocolate and creamy peanut butter, have become a Halloween staple for many.
Another candy that often ranks high on the popularity scale is Snickers. This classic candy bar, filled with peanuts, caramel, and nougat, has been a favorite Halloween treat for generations.
M&M’s also tend to be a crowd-pleaser during Halloween. With their vibrant colors and melt-in-your-mouth chocolate, they are often found in candy bowls and treat bags everywhere.
Other popular Halloween candies include Kit Kat, Skittles, Twix, and Hershey’s Kisses. These candies offer a variety of flavors and textures that appeal to a wide range of taste buds.
It’s important to note that the popularity of Halloween candies can change over time, and new contenders may emerge as favorites. Additionally, personal preferences and regional variations can influence the popularity of certain candies in different areas.
Regardless of which candy takes the top spot, Halloween is a time to indulge in sweet treats and enjoy the festivities.
What activities are popular on Halloween night?
Halloween night is a time for festivities and indulging in various activities that capture the spirit of the holiday. From traditional customs to modern trends, there are plenty of popular activities that people of all ages can enjoy on Halloween night. Here are some of the most common activities that make this spooky holiday so much fun.
1. Trick-or-treating: Undoubtedly, trick-or-treating is one of the most iconic Halloween activities. Children dress up in costumes and go door-to-door in their neighborhoods, asking for treats. This tradition dates back centuries and is still widely practiced today. It’s a great way to get into the Halloween spirit and collect some delicious candy along the way.
2. Costume parties: Halloween night is the perfect excuse to throw or attend a costume party. People love to dress up as their favorite characters or get creative with spooky and imaginative costumes. Costume parties often include games, music, and contests, adding to the festive atmosphere of the evening.
3. Haunted houses: For those seeking a thrill, visiting a haunted house is a popular Halloween activity. These attractions are designed to scare and entertain visitors with spooky decorations, eerie sounds, and actors dressed up as ghosts, zombies, and other monsters. Navigating through a haunted house can be a thrilling and memorable experience for those who enjoy a good scare.
4. Carving pumpkins: Pumpkin carving is a cherished Halloween tradition that has been passed down through generations. People carve intricate designs or spooky faces into pumpkins and place them outside their homes as decorations. It’s a fun and creative activity that allows individuals to showcase their artistic skills and get into the Halloween spirit.
5. Halloween movie marathons: Many people enjoy spending Halloween night curled up on the couch with a bowl of popcorn, watching their favorite spooky movies. From classic horror films to family-friendly Halloween-themed movies, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. It’s a cozy and relaxing way to celebrate the holiday and immerse yourself in the Halloween atmosphere.
6. Bobbing for apples: This traditional Halloween game involves filling a large basin with water and placing apples inside. Participants then try to grab the apples with their teeth, without using their hands. It’s a fun and challenging activity that has been enjoyed for generations, and it adds a touch of nostalgia to any Halloween celebration.
7. Halloween parades: Many cities and towns organize Halloween parades, where people can show off their costumes and join in the festivities. These parades often feature floats, music, and performances, creating a vibrant and exciting atmosphere. It’s a great way to showcase creativity, connect with the community, and have a memorable Halloween experience.
8. Ghost tours: For those who enjoy history and the supernatural, taking a ghost tour on Halloween night can be a thrilling experience. These tours take participants to haunted locations, where they learn about the history and folklore surrounding the area. It’s a unique and spooky way to celebrate Halloween while exploring the darker side of a city or town.
What are some safety tips for trick-or-treating?
Trick-or-treating is a cherished Halloween tradition that brings joy to children and adults alike. However, it’s essential to prioritize safety while enjoying this fun-filled activity. To ensure a safe and enjoyable trick-or-treating experience, consider the following tips:
1. Plan a route in advance: Before heading out, map out a route that is well-lit and familiar to you. Stick to neighborhoods you know well to avoid getting lost or ending up in unfamiliar areas.
2. Stay visible: Ensure that both you and your children are visible to motorists and other trick-or-treaters by wearing reflective clothing or incorporating reflective elements into costumes. Carrying flashlights or glow sticks can also enhance visibility.
3. Choose costumes wisely: Opt for costumes that are not only creative but also safe. Avoid masks that obstruct vision and opt for non-toxic face paint instead. Ensure costumes are flame-resistant and properly sized to avoid tripping hazards.
4. Travel in groups: Encourage children to trick-or-treat in groups with trusted adults or older siblings. There is safety in numbers, and staying together can help prevent any potential accidents or mishaps.
5. Follow pedestrian rules: Remind children to always use crosswalks, sidewalks, and designated paths while trick-or-treating. Teach them to look both ways before crossing the street, and discourage running or darting out between parked cars.
6. Be cautious of traffic: Drivers may be distracted or unfamiliar with the route due to the increased foot traffic
on Halloween. Pay extra attention to your surroundings and be cautious of cars pulling in and out of driveways or turning corners.
7. Check candy before consuming: Before allowing children to eat any candy or treats they receive, inspect them for any signs of tampering or damage. Discard any suspicious or unwrapped items.
8. Be mindful of allergies: If you or your child have any food allergies, be sure to read ingredient labels carefully and avoid consuming any treats that may trigger an allergic reaction.
9. Set a curfew: Establish a specific time for trick-or-treating to end and ensure that everyone in your group adheres to it. This will help prevent late-night accidents or encounters with potential dangers.
10. Respect property and others: Remind children to be respectful of others’ property while trick-or-treating. Avoid trampling through gardens, stay on sidewalks, and refrain from knocking on doors or ringing doorbells of houses that are not participating in Halloween festivities.
By following these safety tips, you can ensure a fun and safe trick-or-treating experience for everyone involved. Stay vigilant, stay together, and have a spooktacular Halloween!
Most popular Halloween novels
Halloween is the perfect time to curl up with a spooky novel and immerse yourself in the eerie atmosphere of the season. Whether you’re a fan of horror, mystery, or supernatural tales, there are plenty of Halloween-themed novels that will send chills down your spine. Here are some of the most popular Halloween novels that are sure to give you a fright:
1. “Dracula” by Bram Stoker: A classic vampire story that has become synonymous with Halloween, “Dracula” tells the tale of Count Dracula and his attempt to spread his undead curse in Victorian England. This gothic horror novel is a must-read for any fan of the genre.
2. “Frankenstein” by Mary Shelley: Another iconic horror novel, “Frankenstein” follows the story of Victor Frankenstein and his creation of a monster. This novel explores themes of creation, ambition, and the consequences of playing God.
3. “The Haunting of Hill House” by Shirley Jackson: This psychological horror novel is regarded as one of the best in the genre. It follows four characters who stay at the notoriously haunted Hill House, where they experience increasingly terrifying and supernatural events.
4. “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” by Washington Irving: This classic short story is a Halloween favorite. It tells the tale of Ichabod Crane, a superstitious schoolteacher who encounters the Headless Horseman in the haunted town of Sleepy Hollow.
5. “The Shining” by Stephen King:This bestselling horror novel by Stephen King has become a classic in the genre. “The Shining” tells the story of Jack Torrance, a writer who becomes the winter caretaker of the isolated Overlook Hotel. As the supernatural forces of the hotel begin to take hold of Jack, his wife Wendy, and their young son Danny, the suspense and terror build to a chilling climax.
6. “Coraline” by Neil Gaiman: While not strictly a Halloween novel, “Coraline” is a dark fantasy tale that perfectly captures the eerie and unsettling atmosphere of the season. It follows a young girl named Coraline who discovers a mysterious door in her new home that leads to an alternate reality filled with sinister beings.
7. “The Exorcist” by William Peter Blatty: This horror novel tells the story of a young girl named Regan who becomes possessed by a demonic entity. As her mother seeks help from two priests to perform an exorcism, the novel delves into themes of faith, redemption, and the battle between good and evil.
8. “Something Wicked This Way Comes” by Ray Bradbury: This dark fantasy novel is set in a small town where a mysterious carnival arrives. As two young boys become entangled in the sinister secrets of the carnival and its leader, Mr. Dark, the novel explores themes of temptation, innocence, and the power of friendship.
9. “The Witching Hour” by Anne Rice: This supernatural thriller introduces readers to the Mayfair family, a powerful and secretive dynasty with a dark history of witchcraft. The novel follows Rowan Mayfair, a neurosurgeon who discovers her own supernatural abilities and is drawn into a world of intrigue and danger.
10. “Dracula” by Bram Stoker: No Halloween reading list would be complete without this iconic vampire novel. “Dracula” tells the story of Count Dracula, a centuries-old vampire who moves to England and seeks to spread his undead curse. Through a series of diary entries and letters, the novel creates a sense of creeping dread and suspense as the characters battle against the vampire’s powers.
While these novels may not be suitable for younger readers, they offer a thrilling and atmospheric reading experience for anyone looking to get into the Halloween spirit. Whether you prefer psychological horror, supernatural thrills, or classic monsters, these books are sure to give you a spine-chilling read. So curl up with a cozy blanket, turn off the lights, and prepare to be scared by these haunting tales. Happy Halloween reading!