Halloween

I can’t believe that Halloween is only a day away! I truly love Halloween, which might explain why my yard has been flashing strobe lights and pumping out spooky fog every night since late-August (our dry ice bills are through the roof!). It might also explain why I’ve been rocking out to the “Monster Mash” three times a day for the last month. But even among the best of us holiday decorators, sometimes things get overlooked. Like a costume, for example -- I just realized I still don’t have one for this year!

Now, I’ve gone the rental route before, but to tell you the truth I prefer to make my own costumes. And some of my best costume ideas have actually come at the very last minute. So that’s the plan, I’m going to check and see what I already have at home and use my imagination. And you can do the same: if you find yourself stuck for a costume idea, try improvising with what you have around the house. Or maybe head to a local thrift store and see what inspires you.

Another thing that often gets overlooked until the last minute (usually) is carving a pumpkin. For years I found myself carving the same old boring, triangle-eyed jack-o-lantern … that is until I got on the internet and did a little research. Turns out, there are lots of great carving ideas that you yourself can do with a little patience and some guidance (no, really!). And the best part is that most of them are free!

Now, as much fun as Halloween is for adults, it’s really about the kids. To avoid incident, be sure to follow the advice of these safety experts.

Have a safe and Happy Halloween!

Are You Ready For Some Football?

Well, it’s that time of year once again: the leaves are falling, the weather is cool and the smell in the air is unmistakable. Of course, folks, I’m talking about the arrival of football season.

For fans and players alike, the advent of another season brings with it the chance to start anew. It’s a time of hope, a time of optimism … a time when things like “last season was a fluke --- this is our year, baby!” are heard throughout office buildings and drinking establishments alike. It’s a special time of the year, indeed.

For all of the high school players that have been preparing endlessly since the end of last season, the moment of truth has come. The marching bands are beating their drums, the proud parents are on the edge of their seats, the stadium lights of Friday night are aglow … electricity is in the air.

And then, of course, there are the Fantasy Football die-hards. Millions across the country have been waiting with feverish anticipation to see how the upcoming season plays out. Money will change hands, championship trophies will be hoisted … tears will be shed. And all this time you thought Fantasy Football was just a game for nerds!

So whether you’re rooting for your favorite NFL team or your college alma mater, or you’re a player, coach, or general manager (in a Yahoo! league) --- good luck to you this season! And if things go from bad to worse in a hurry, remember: there’s always next year.

Excited about the upcoming season? Share your thoughts and stories with other members like you in the comments section below.