It's Pumpkin Carving Time!

Molly and John prepare for the ultimate Pumpkin challenge. It's Kitty and Ron's Pumpkin Carving Contest. I planned my trip to San Francisco around this party. For the last 3 years J and I have been invited. And this year, even though we moved I still wanted to go. I have a trophy to defend.

I debated between two designs - one a scary face or this Halloween scene. Ron wanted to see if I could execute this detailed drawing and since he was the host, how could I turn down this challenge.

Ron carved a self portrait and won the grand prize in the original category. Can you see the man holding the camera?

John was very creative this year, creating a sea monster using four pumpkins. Lucky for him the judging area is a large blue tarp which added to his creation.

I know this picture is a bit blurry but here is my completed winning pumpkin. Yes, for the 4th straight year I won the stencil category. Whoo hoo! Now let's go trick or treating.

My favorite thing about Halloween is carving pumpkins.

Here's a little how-to on pumpkin carving from Rich's very own pumpkin party:

1. It's nice to have a clean pumpkin to start with. As seen here Michelle has decided that the tub makes an excellent place to wash up her pumpkin.

2. Use proper cutting techniques. Note tools made for pumpkin carving allow for easier cutting and fine details. Unlike Rich, do not hold your pumpkin in your lap and use the largest butcher knife in the house to carve.

3. Cover the table with a plastic covering such as trash bags or a table cloth. Be sure to have enough space for your guests to sit as well as enough tools.

4. Light the pumpkins and enjoy the different designs. (Rich carved the one tooth wonder, I carved the spider and Michelle carved the skeleton).

Now that I got a little practice it's off to the Pumpkin carving contest at Kit and Ron's house where for the last three years I have won 1st prize in the stencil category... can I make it 4?