I never grow tired of watching Elf, and A Christmas Story will be a classic for decades more to come. But in my 23-year career as a holiday movie expert, I have never and will never find another holiday movie that compares to the awesomeness that is National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation.

For a brief reminder of the greatest holiday movie of all time, click on [tab:video].

Just thinking about Clark telling his yuppie neighbors where he was going to put his tree makes me laugh out loud, and I love pretty much every line that comes out of Aunt Bethany's mouth. Not to mention that that Clark and Ellen's daughter, Audrey, has a really fabulous name. But out of all the hilarity that is a result of the Griswald family's vacation, Cousin Eddie takes the cake.

This photo is my cousin's husband, Mark, on Christmas morning in the Holaday household. Not only does having "Cousin Eddie" around on Christmas make the opening of the presents more entertaining, but it also prompts all of the males in the fam to start referring to each other as "Clark." It's something you have to experience to truly appreciate, which is why Mark's tribute to one of the greatest Christmas movie characters ever has inspired to me enable you ToastedRav readers to follow suit.

There are three outfits that come to mind when thinking of Cousin Eddie. The first, and in my humble opinion, the most classic, is the one modeled by Mark. To start off, you're going to need a black mock turtleneck dickie. This one ought to work quite nicely. Cousin Eddie wears a very tight white sweater over the mock turtleneck, but according to Mark, it's tough to get a men's sweater that's tight enough to meet Cousin Eddie's standards. Which is why you'll probably have to don a women's one like this one. Finally, there is the most important accessory of all - Eddie's Moose Mug. You can find that sweet eggnog holder right here.

The next Eddie outfit that you might choose to model Christmas morning is the one he wears proudly while emptying his...waste. The beer and soggy cigar are optional that early in the morning, but here is a white robe that will suffice. The choice accessory with this second outfit is obviously Eddie's stylish hat, which you can find here. This is a pretty simple outfit to imitate, but for the sake of the young children who might be present around your tree, please remember to wear something underneath your robe.

Finally, if your family dresses up on Christmas morning, Cousin Eddie's blue leisure suit might be the way to go. This one is pretty darn authentic, and it will pair nicely with these white dress shoes.

It never fails with me; as soon as the uber-quiet cashier is done ringing out my items at the grocery store, I have an uncontrollable outburst after seeing the total: "What? One-hundred and fifty dollars? But I just picked up a few things!" 

It seems nowadays with the current trends and food costs, its becoming harder and harder to bring home the literal bacon within a budgeted amount. Prices are shooting through the roof and our on-the-go lifestyles force us to purchase overpriced prepared and convenience foods.  

I've compiled a list of some tips that I've learned through the years to help you shave down your total expenditure at the grocery store and limit those disbelieving outbursts.

1. Beware of Marketing Tactics. As a full time marketing executive, I know all too well the marketing ploys used to make the consumers believe they are getting a "great deal" or a "superior product." Just because products are centered around an eye-catching, elaborate display does not mean the product is on sale or even a good buy. In some cases, vendors buy the prominent floor space to push product, and the store is only endorsing it for their benefit, not yours. It may not actually be a "deal". 

Also be aware that if you decide to enter a promotional sweepstakes, you do NOT have to buy the product to increase your chances of winning. By law, a sweepstakes guarantees no purchase is necessary. Rebates are also a trap; with multiple purchase requirements, you can end up buying more than you need or something you don't care for just to get the deal. If you are not careful during your shopping trip, you can easily fall victim to marketing strategies and purchase items that you just don't need. 

2. Never Go To the Store Hungry - or Full. It's kind of a case of Catch 22. If you visit the grocery store on a empty tank, you are guaranteed to grab budget-busting impulse buys or quick fixes for the car ride home. On the flipside, do not go full as you will tend to forego things on the list because they don't sound appetizing at the time. If your fridge is too bare after your grocery store visit, you can bet on using your most delicious (and costly) crutch- pizza delivery. Try to hit the store mid-afternoon or after a meal is settled, when your belly is content. It's a small window of opportunity, but do try.

3. Bring a Calculator. Since I have an inability to do math in my head, I rely on my cell phone calculator at the store to check exact cost per ounce and cost per item (the cell calculator also helps mask the frugal geek factor). This is especially important when comparing generic brands to well-known, as in some cases the generic isn't always the cheapest option. 

4. Do Not Buy Toiletries at a Grocery Store. Hand soap alone will cost you dollars more at a grocery store than a retailer like Wal-mart or Target. Hold on the toilet paper, trash bags, sandwich bags and shampoo until you can swing by Wally World. 

5. Pay Attention To Price Ads and Be Open To Shopping Different Stores. If you can break the cycle and venture out to a different store, weekly circulars could be your ticket to cutting your grand totals down. Look to see which store has your favorite brands that fit into your food repertoire. If its a really great deal, stock up. It will help you in the long run. As a matter of fact, I've saved at least a hundred dollars on Lean Cuisines in the past six months just by going to the store that is featuring them each week. Since I typically eat them for lunch everyday, a $2 sale spend on five a week versus the normal price of $3.50 saves me over $7.50 a week - that's a $30 savings a month, or a tank of gas! Small savings do add up, especially if you are a loyal luncher.

6. Search High & Low. Typically, like the marketing strategies, vendors either petition or pay to secure the best shelf space at eye level. Sales volume will also determine what brands get the premium shelf space. But just because brands or items are hot sellers do not mean they are better or line priced with the competition. Costly high-end brands are typically eye-level or can be taken off the shelf without reaching or bending. But if your back is healthy and your budget tight, reach up or bend down to check out other brands of the same nature. You may discover a new brand you like better and your debit card will thank you. 

7. Surf Your Favorite Brand Websites. You are bound to find some type of trial offer or coupon to help save on a product that you already use. And, if you are curious about a new product, see if they offer to ship free samples online before you head to the store and buy a whole box. It could save time, money and a gag reflex.

8. Mosey On Over To Shop 'n Save. While aesthetically it may not be the best grocery store in the Lou and some interesting, um, characters have been known lurk the aisles, they are desperate to get your business and are providing great incentives on a weekly basis. For months now, they have had "No Coupon Thursdays", where all patrons automatically get $10 off their food order of $50 or more. If you even just go to get your staples there once a week, you could save $40 a month just by shopping there on Thursdays. That could add up to almost $500 a year.

That's some serious savings I'd rather take to the bar!

My attention has come to again, to the day to day driving habits of those I share the road with, especially when commuting back and forth from work. My experiences on the road have made me an offensive/defensive navigator and I have really needed these skills lately as it seems that St. Louis roads are becoming more hazardous by the day with construction, traffic, and negligent drivers.

I feel that the Missouri Driver's Guide needs to be updated distributed as often as the hefty phone books that everyone gets. It seems that the seriousness of driving has been forgotten by a lot of people.

Based on what I and others go through every day, this is what I am reminded of constantly ,as I battle moving forces as I travel:

1. Pick a lane and stay in it in. I can't stand weavers who dart in and out of lanes through hoards of cars jam packed in traffic. They may think they are getting somewhere quicker, but actually they cause people to drive even slower. No one has the right to handle the road that way, and one day an accident will likely occur because of that very thing.

2. Keep a steady speed. In high traffic, it is hard to maintain any speed, but try to maintain one even if you are crawling at 3 miles per hour. Watch the traffic ahead and don't try to rush if the speed picks up...it usually comes to a stop so spread it out and by the time you get there it will be clear. (Unless one of those darting cars takes the advantage.)

3. Look and steer.  Many people don't really take the time to think about driving as operating a piece of machinery, but that's what it is. Don't talk on the cell phone while you drive, please! Everywhere I look people are one handing it, and tailgating, driving like crazy because their mind is elsewhere. Drive with some focus and strategy...save us all a little stress, will ya?

4. Don't tail other cars. Car lengths can equal peace of mind. It's not going to get anyone anywhere any quicker by riding so close that you can't even see your headlights. If there is a slow car, I bet they will slow even more if you given them reason. People will naturally speed up a little if you give them to chance.

5. Merge before you HAVE TO. One of the most aggravating offenses is the person who flies by the line of cars waiting patiently in the open lane, then waiting til the last minute to cut in. There are signs and most of the others have already merged, but traffic keeps slowing because people simply don't think ahead of time or act when they see the sign.

6. A blinker is not an option. People should be fined for not using their blinkers, and fined again if it is because they were tending to a phone call. That is not an excuse in my mind. I would gladly signal for you if I could, but I have no clue where you are going and that makes you dangerous.

7. Don't block intersections. When in doubt, stay at the line. I believe that is a law although I have never seen it enforced. Actually, there are a lot of things that are not enforced...arggghhh! Please, be patient and just sit tight for a few more minutes. You know people are looking at you when you are "the one".

In my 11 years of driving, I have not been in any accidents on the roads. I believe that my driving habits have been the biggest reason, so I apologize if I offend or come off like a jerk. I feel like it's a life and death situation that I am in and it angers me when other people put me at risk on the road.

To improve upon my ice wobbling experiences of years past I thought I would try learning how to properly stop on ice skates before causing too much damage to the rink or myself this skating season. Here is what I learned about properly stopping (without running into the rink walls) when ice skating:

Step One: When you are ready to stop bend your knees

Step Two: Put most of your weight on your outside foot

Step Three: Drag the edge of the skate across the ice

You can also check out [tab:video] for a demonstration on two ways to stop on ice skates. My favorite part of ice skating will always be the hot cocoa breaks, but maybe with a little less bruising I might start enjoying the actual sport a little more this year.

TIPS:

• If you're a woman, stuff a pillow up your shirt and scream, "I'm going into labor, let me through" whenever necessary. When you're pushing past them, just make sure that they don't notice that: a) you're not actually going into labor, or b) you had to make a pit-stop in the electronics department first.
• Guard your cart. I have literally seen a woman take something she wanted out of someone else's unattended shopping cart. I guess she really wanted that lamp, but don't let this happen to you.
• Stay together. Many people descend upon stores in groups, so it's easy to get separated from your own. Hold hands, keep your cell phones on you, and if necessary, wear whistles.
• Scan the floor space directly ahead of you, and anticipate your route around slower walkers and obstacles.
• Know what to wear. Since you might be waiting in line for a few hours outside the store, you'll want to be prepared for the cold weather. At the same time, if you're wearing your puffy jacket, you might end up getting bounced around like a pinball on the inside.
• Get buff ahead of time. You might need to get forceful with some people, so if you have to throw up a 'bow at someone, you need to have the biceps to back it up.
• Walk deliberately and don't make eye-contact. If you have that "crazy, don't mess with me" air about you as you head down isle 3, trust me, they'll want to avoid you.
• If someone won't move enough to let you through the mosh pit of shoppers, distract them. I'm told that if you grab something from their cart and throw it a few yards away, it will divert their attention long enough for you to get by. Of course, you'll need to run very quickly afterwards...

Good luck, and happy shopping. I'll be safely at home in my pj's, saving my Christmas shopping for the week before December 25th, like I normally do.

1. Familiarizing your self with weather terms such as Freezing Rain, Sleet, Winter Storm Watch, Winter Storm Warning, Blizzard Warning, and Frost/Freeze Warning. It is helpful to know the conditions that are taking place and how they will affect you.

2. Winterize your home and your car for the event that you are isolated there and have to survive the cold temperatures. Insulating your home, and regular maintenance on vehicles helps insure that you will be able to stay warm if needed.

3. Wear proper clothing to ensure that your body maintains normal heat levels. Avoid dressing in one heavy layer, instead using several layers of loose clothing, that are lightweight. Outer garments should be tightly woven and water resistant. Wear mittens, hats, and wear a scarf over the mouth protect lungs in the cold weather. The more layers you wear, the more you can adjust as your body heat rises and falls.

4. Know the signs of frostbite. These include loss of feeling and white or pale appearance in extremities such as fingers, toes, ear lobes, and the tip of the nose. If these symptoms are present, seek medical attention immediately. Get victim to a warm area and begin slowly warming the extremities. Sometimes removal of fingers or toes is the only treatment if not responded to immediately.

5. Watch for signs of hypothermia. These include uncontrollable shivering, memory loss, disorientation, incoherence, slurred speech, drowsiness, and apparent exhaustion. If these symptoms are present, get the victim to a warm location, remove wet or cold clothing and begin warming the center of the body first. Have the drink warm, non alcoholic beverages if the victim is conscious. It is important to gradually warm the body as to not perpetuate shock.

It may seem a little early to be thinking about snow storms, blizzards, and freezes, but I have seen flurries twice in the last two weeks. With the hustle and bustle of the upcoming Holiday, remember to take time to take these necessary measures to ensure a cozy and warm winter with family.

FYI: You can order a copy of "Are You Ready? FEMA's In-Depth Guide to Citizen Preparedness" by calling FEMA at the number listed on their website. The brochure that I received in the mail is jam packed with protective measures for any disaster or emergency situation. It has proven quite helpful already and you can never be too prepared! Bring it on, Winter!

Tactic #1: Gently respond to all instructions and warnings with the gentle reminder, "The Missouri Department of Motor Vehicles has deemed me capable of operating a motor vehicle." This one is my favorite and works in almost every backseat driving encounter.

Tactic #2: If you are able to locate and purchase a plastic steering wheel, much like the model pictured right and preferably with an operational horn, store it in the floor board of the backseat. When said backseat driver starts it up again, and your car has come to a stop, pull that puppy out and hand it to them. Backseat drivers have a hard time feeling comfortable when they aren't controlling their car so the sense of feigned control should ideally work. The real reason pulling out a toy steering wheel works is that they are pretty much too embarrassed to continuing with their driving lessons.

Tactic #3: Ask your vehicular adviser to fully explain the law, statute, or rule you are breaking and any implications it may have. If you phrase the question how you imagine a law school professor would they generally get the hint and stop.

A common theme in the tactics I use to combat backseat driving is embarrassment. I find to it be more effective and efficient than complaining about being complained at and I also find it surprisingly soothing when a mouthy passenger spikes my blood pressure.

While self-defense isn't one of my lighter topics, recent crimes and attacks in and around St. Louis (sadly one of the crime capitals of the country), has got me beefing up my own personal security. 

No one situation is every really the same and it's clearly impossible to prevent random acts of violence. However, what you can do is lower the likelihood of something happening to you by constantly being on the lookout. It's about preventative smarts, not necessarily about knowing how to fight back. (Although I will touch on how to kick some butt!) 

First and foremost, always be aware of your surroundings. I know our parents have branded this in our brain a million times over, but we often get comfortable in everyday settings and drop our guards. Too often, people render themselves oblivious to a predator or a dangerous situation by talking on their cell phones, fiddling with purses, wallets, keys, etc. The top three places where predators attack include the grocery store parking lot, office parking lots/garages and public restrooms. Pay especially close attention in these settings, no matter how much you feel like you know the area.

A great intimidating tool that can keep predators at bay is a trusty umbrella. Not only is it great for the city's unpredictable weather, but it doesn't hurt to carry one around as a means for self-defense. Holding an umbrella, or any object that can be used from a distance will help deter criminals from attacking. If a bulky umbrella is not your style, it couldn't hurt to carry pepper spray or a taser. Just make sure it is accessible; hold it at your side or try to keep in your pocket. Letting it reside in the bottom of your Kate Spade won't do you any good. (Lovin' my fashion reference? I'm getting savvy!) 

If Heaven forbid you are ever in a gunfire situation and attempt to dodge bullets, remember to run in a zig zag pattern as much as possible. The chances of a bullet hitting you are much less if you jigsaw your path. Run for cover or try to put obstructions between you. The bigger, the better. If you happen to freeze up in a situation like this, just remember: WWMVGD? (What Would My Video Game Do?) Run! 

Now let's talk cars. Aside from always locking your doors, never sit in a parking lot in your car to fumble around with the checkbook or radio. Doing so makes you an easy target and very accessible. In the chance that someone is already in your car and forces you to drive, run into something. The airbag should save you and the crash should likely scare the predator away. Hey, it's worth trying because at all costs you need to prevent being taken to a second location. Second locations are bad, bad news.

Another comforting plan of action in keeping yourself safe is to check in with friends and family as often as possible and make them aware of your routine and any out of the norm events you may have. In the event that something bad should happen to you, making others aware of your plans will increase the chances of finding you faster.

Unfortunately, physical confrontations cannot always be avoided and do happen. Bad people and lunatics do exist. Thankfully, the human body is one of the greatest weapons a person could have and you don't need a license to use it. That's right; your elbow is the strongest part on your body, so if a situation gets physical, throw that 'bow in the face, inner thigh or chest. Another great trick is to take the palm of your hand and force it upward into the attacker's nose, shattering the bone completely. The inflicted pain will be so intense and blinding giving you the perfect chance to run. 

Many local recreational centers and membership gyms offer self-defense classes and/or mixed martial arts if you are interested. The YMCA of Greater St. Louis also offers martial arts for adults and children.  

Above everything else, trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, it probably is. 

What You Need

• Dry fire wood
• Kindling (small pieces of dry wood)
• Newspaper
• Matches

Step One - ball up newspaper and lay it and kindling in the center of your fire pit

Step Two - Take two pieces of wood and place them, on end, on both sides of the fire pit. Start a teepee surrounding kindling and newspaper by leaning wood piece against each other.

Step Three - Continue creating wooden teepee, but don't over crowd the pit. Fires need oxygen for fuel and cluttering the pit will squelch your fire before it starts.

Step Four - Light the kindling and newspaper in the center of the teepee.

Step Five - As the wood burns add more logs to the fire to keep it going using the teepee method of stacking.

And for the love of all your friends' lungs do not burn trash or aluminum cans to get your fire started or keep it going.

Step One: Pick Your Poison

Start with an idea or a subject matter you are particularly passionate about. Make it a good one because once you start your site, you need to update it with new stuff pretty often to keep your site going and to satisfy web audiences. You should probably have an interest in writing too since most content on the web is written. Some ideas for topics to get you started, and links to great local blogs who cover the subject:

• Cooking - A Veggie Venture
• Crafting - Courtney Watson
• Parenting - Mamalogues
• Style - Life in A Venti Cup... and the list goes on and on

Step Two: Find Your Niche

Find a name for your website that is catchy or fun, and related to what you want to talk about. Once you have picked your name plug it into "Google" to make sure that someone isn't already using it (you don't want to violate copyright/trademark laws or start use another site's name). Don't forget to check the spelling variations of the name you want to use, too!

• If you want something a little more fancy and are willing to do learn basic HTML, you should consider purchasing your own web address and website hosting from a company. There are some pretty inexpensive options out there. The most popular companies to get hosting and to purchase your web addy, or domain, from are GoDaddy and DreamHost.

Step Three: Design Your Website

Next you need to select a site design and color scheme that reflects your subject matter and allows you to do what you want with your site, like create a calendar, add links, display monthly archives, etc.

• On Blogger or Wordpress? They will ask you to select from a set of layouts when you are setting up your account.


• Self hosted? (Smart Move) Then you need to install publishing software and design templates on your server. This sound much more difficult than it is. To find out how search the help section on your hosting website. Most, if not all, hosting companies offer the ability to simply click a button to install it, it is just a matter of finding the button. For what it is worth, I recommend using Wordpress software for a self hosted site - it is a free web publishing software package and also offers a ton of site design templates for free. Plus, you can download new pieces (or widgets) to add stuff like picture tools, spam filters for your comments section, and tools to let your readers subscribe to your site to let them know when you add something.

Step Four: Work That Website

Start writing, publishing videos, and posting photos! You officially done got yourself a website.

• Places for People provides housing and mental health services to people in the St. Louis area who are living with severe psychiatric disorders. They are always accepting clothing for those they serve as well as small kitchen appliances, chairs, small kitchen tables, twin sized mattresses and box springs. Call Places for People at (314)535-2310 to schedule a furniture or appliance pick up or to arrange a time to drop off clothing.
• Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Missouri requires a bit of a time commitment but it is well worth it. Everyone I have spoken to who has volunteered as a "Big" raves about their experience and how much they have learned from being a part of this organization. Big Brothers Big Sisters at risk students with adults who can provide mentoring and friendhship. If you are interested in something more short-term, they also need volunteers for office help or groups and companies can participate in the organization's "Big for A Day" program.
• If your interests lie in the care and assistance of local animals, Stray Rescue has a volunteer program that is always in need of more hands. Administrative tasks that the group always needs help with include helping with mailing, assisting with adoption events, and working at fundraisers. Those among us who don't mind getting their hands dirty can also help with cleaning cages and storage rooms at the kennel.

Though monetary gifts large and small are always needed, getting involved with an organization can be a very rewarding experience and a great way to put your talents, hobbies, or skills to good use. If the non-profits mentioned don't strike your fancy there is always VoluteerMatch, a website that helps pair you with non-profits that need your skills and talents. By entering keywords and your location you can search for local organizations that are good matches for you. With the holiday season fast approaching it is a great time to find a cause that needs your assistance.

STEP 1: Choose a pic...goofy, serious...anything you want! No matter what you do, the result will be creepy. Import into your photo editor.

STEP 2: Use Command I (mac) Control I (pc) to Invert the image. Immediate weirdness will take effect.

STEP 3: Go to IMAGE > ADJUSTMENTS > BRIGHTNESS/CONTRAST.

Play with the slider levels until you become ghoul-like.

STEP 4: Go to IMAGE > ADJUSTMENTS > SHADOW/HIGHLIGHT.

Play with slider levels for desired affect. If you don't see all the options above, make sure to click view more options at the bottom of the pop up window. This will add depth to your image. If you want keep on going and experiment...this is just the beginning!

STEP 5: Save your picture, and upload your spooky profile pic on ToastedRav! If you have a question, leave me a comment or send me an email @ margo at toastedrav dot com.

Check out the Gallery of Ghouls also known as the ToastedRav Staff. Let us know what you think!

Cute hats, gloves, and scarfs can be found almost anywhere, at almost any price. Winter accessories are great, but how creative you are in using them can take it to an entirely new level. I get tired of wearing my scarves the same way every time I really need to use them...but after a while it's basically the same look just with different materials, styles and colors. I want to take it up a notch and in my search I found a great guide on the many ways you can sport your favorite scarf.

There are over 30 styles to choose from at Texere Silk, which specializes in hand painted silk scarves. Their guide is useful and it can apply to any scarf, given the thickness or weight.

Expert Village has great videos demonstrating various techniques for long scarves, short scarves, and everything in between. Sometimes a video is more helpful than diagrams!

When it comes to style and your scarves, mix and match and create your own look. There are so many fashion trends and lines to browse, and many more ways to wear them. You might even update an old scarf buy just wrapping it a new way. Who knows? You can check out a wide variety at any department store or you can browse at Style.com

Photo: Giorgio Armani - Style.com (I love this look!)

1. Urban legends and true stories make the best fodder, but if you must include a monster make it a funny one.
   


2. Don't bore your audience with too many details, and keep it short.
   
   See more funny videos at Funny or Die


3. A flashlight shining up your nose is your best friend.
   


4. Pace the story and ask questions as you go along to build tension and keep your audience interested.
   


5. End the story with a bang!
   

Carving a traditional pumpkin with glowing triangle eyes and a wide, angle-toothed grin is alright, but why create something th

at is just alright when you can carve it up like a pro? By adding a few expert tips and tricks to your techniques you can make your friendly, orange squash a Halloween masterpiece.

Pumpkin Carving Secret #1:

Make sure you have the right tools for the job. Those tiny, plastic saws and scoops really do make a difference when it comes down to it. Those little kits at the drug store may look corny but they have all of the tools you will need for your "Great Pumpkin."

Pumpkin Carving Secret #2:

Select or create a stencil before starting. The idea behind creating art from pumpkins is to use the negative space to draw your picture. For instance, any spot where the pumpkin is completely removed will glow bright orange - thus creating the design, any pieces that still remain in tact will be black when lit and become negative space, and any place where the outer layer of the skin is removed but the inner pumpkin wall remains will glow deep orange.

Pumpkin Carving Secret #3:

Remove all seeds and meat until the pumpkin wall thickness is only about 1". If the pumpkin wall is thicker, it becomes more difficult to carve and instead of sawing you have to work harder to make deeper cuts - potentially disfiguring your design. You need to

be able to gently saw through the pumpkin skin to create intricate details and 1" is the ideal thickness.

Pumpkin Carving Secret #3

Saw out pieces of your pattern slowly and gently. Be careful not to crush or break pieces off, and be careful that you don't cut at too much of an angle. Not only will the pieces be hard to pop out if the cut is angled, but the lighting and pattern will be off.

Pumpkin Carving Secret #4

After you have finished carving, soak the pumpkin in cold water. The pumpkin will absorb the water and the walls will become firm. Coat the cut edges of your pumpkin with petroleum jelly to prevent the water from seeping out.

Pumpkin Carving Secret #5

Get creative with the lighting. Using traditional candles for your creation is no longer the only option. When your pumpkin is ready to glow, you could use battery operated candles or even a strand of Christmas lights inside. You could also turn the carving towards a wall and project the light onto a wall. If you have words in your design make sure you carve them backwards so they are readable in the projection. You could also place colored tissue paper inside the pumpkin and behind the carving area to add color to the light.

Now that you are sufficiently inspired, snap a picture of your pumpkin and submit it to ToastedRav's Shout! page under the category "Pumpkin Masterpiece Theater" to compete in our pumpkin carving contest! Winners will be announced at 12:00pm CST on October 31st. May the best pumpkin win!