Vittles on the Go, part 1

The transmutation was, of course, responsible for all current and future outstanding athletic achievement ;-)

The recipe involves orange fabric or sheets - one set of singles for the average 10-year-old. Measure kid to make adjustments - babies require only a pillow case for the transformation.

Fold fabric in half and stitch a casing on each long side to hold appropriate lengths of elastic. Stuff the "skin" with quilt batting. After cutting out arm holes, stitch the "wound" so the guts can't escape. If you aren't particulary skilled in the needle arts, don't worry about neatness. Even dad should be able to get by on Boy Scout basics. Sew the shorts end together, insert kid, tack the elastic together - Poof! - instant pumpkin.

Top off the effect by sewing another casing around a large circle. Attach a green felt stem to the beret/lid. Use a piece of cardboard to give it some shape.

One of the best parties I ever threw for kid-less adults while we were waiting for trick or treaters featured a dummy in a coffin. I put the bowl of candy inside - wicked. And first the kids had to get past a hanging birdcage outside with a styrofoam head wearing a wig and make-up that was also wired for sound. The whole thing was quite spooky mainly because we were in the middle of scraping wallpaper and patching cracks. The place looked awful. Now I'm not suggesting ...

A new cool idea I found was filling a rubber glove with water to freeze for a punch bowl - the floating hand. Turn the glove inside out first or you'll have fleece and powder mixed in - ptooey.

I really think it stinks that a few bad apples spoiled trick or treating, however, think of the advantages of having to examine the loot - confiscation privileges. One good way to insure your offering isn't thrown away is to fill a bowl with pennies - let 'em dig - I've never had an unhappy customer.

Liberty would like to remind you that chocolate can be toxic to animals. Please tell the kids not to share. I hope we are someplace the little goblins can find us by the big night - Lib loves to wear her kissing monster costume for the occasion. Wonder where it is ...

I am thoroughly enjoying the season the way it's meant to feel being back close to the old stomping ground. Hope you are too.

This will conclude the opening segment of the program. Watch for the next installment soon. I have several Less-than-Fivers (recipe ingredients) stashed. Send your ideas too.