So it begins with- pumpkins, obviously. We scored these baberdoos at Walmart for $3.88 each. We recently read online that there is a "pumpkin shortage" in our area this year due to the heavy rainfalls that drowned and damaged many crops. The article told us that pumpkins would be A.) harder to find and B.) more expensive. We found that neither was true up here in Northeast PA, but maybe those of you in other places might be experiencing this.
While Dan is clearly ready to begin arts and crafts, you first need the second important piece of the carving experience: the pumpkin-carving kit. This kit was just as expensive as the pumpkin itself, although you can reuse it year after year until the utensils break. Alternatively, you can use toothpicks, knives, and other household items if you don't want to spring for the kit. However, beware of hurting yourself and/or damaging your good knives. Either would make for a bad day.
You should begin by cutting a hole in the bottom of the pumpkin. If you cut it on the top, it will probably look stupid unless you want to create a cute little "hat" out of the stem. Then you should scrape the guts out. If you feel like really being rustic, you can sift through the guts for the pumpkin seeds, wash them, dry them, and roast them for a tasty treat. After gutting the squash, you must pick your pattern. If you are a novice, pick something simple. A wonky pumpkin could be very disappointing to visitors. If you are using the kit, there are ready-made patterns that you scotch tape to the squash. Otherwise, use pencil to stencil your outline.
Somehow, Dan makes it look easy, and his ghosts turn out perfect. Not all of us are so lucky or skilled. My cat looks a little bit wonky, but not too terrible. Visitors will probably think a small child carved the pattern.
Our friend James carved the last pumpkin, a very sweet and smiley face. Picking a simple pattern was brilliant on his part, it turned out great. When all three were lit, they looked really cool.
Ultimately, Halloween is really fun and we hope to post more crafting endeavors (and food endeavors) in the near future. Until then, start brainstorming costume ideas, pumpkin patterns, and apple-picking outings, because FALL has arrived!
Love,
The Two Gavones
