Every year for the past few years we've hosted a family Halloween gathering at our house. My kids love to decorate for Halloween, and I love the chance to host a holiday party--especially a party that involves cooking up ghoulish looking cookies and other Halloween-themed food. I was so prepared this year--in advance, for once. Weeks ago I bought the party plates and tablecloth, and I've been collecting recipes and party ideas, and browsing Halloween sites for what seems like forever.

It doesn't look like it's going to happen this year. Thanks, H1N1.

Costumes and candy and crepe paper, oh my. You’ve been preparing for weeks, and now the hour is drawing near for the big night! Before your little tricksters head out for their treats, make your Halloween a green one. It’s not too late to make it a healthier celebration, for you and planet Earth.

Wow! Halloween crept up pretty quickly this year, and I still don't have a costume. Growing up, my mom always made our costumes out of old "dress-up" clothes which consisted of my parents' threads from the '60s, '70s, and '80s.

We made a magic wand a while back on No Time For Flash Cards and my son has been asking for a new wand. So with these pre-cut pumpkin doilies we picked up at the dollar store and some left over ribbon we made a pretty cool little wand. If you like, it could be used for a Halloween decoration too. Pop it in a flower pot ( if you live someone dry... we do not) or stick it in your autumn centerpiece!

I hope you aren't sick of all the Halloween crafts, we are riding a wave of inspiration and excitement about the upcoming holiday.
I like making these place mats to use with play dough, they are fun, protect your tables and homemade!

1. Gather your materials. You will need 1 piece of paper towel, some markers, fun stickers , contact paper and scissors.