Deck Your Home For Halloween

Halloween decorating used to be simple -- buy a pumpkin or two, carve them, and put them by the front door on Oct. 31.  But that's all changed today.  In fact, Halloween is just behind Christmas as the top home decorating seasons.

Halloween decor should be filled with a sense of fun. Aim to entertain the kids, who are most delighted by the event.

Outside, you can line your walk way with a series of jack-o-lanterns. Let the kids assist with the carving of the pumpkins which can be a fun weekend activity. On the evening of Oct. 31, your jack-o-lanterns will help the trick-or-treaters reach the door safely.

For something with a more upscale look to it, replace the urns by the front door with artificial sunflowers. Arrange flowers of various heights in sand-filled apple bushel baskets. Or, create a smaller version as a centrepiece for your table.

Take advantage of the Halloween decor available at stores to "spook up" your place . Let the kids help you select the decor from the traditional orange lights, tombstones, black cats and pumpkin-shaped garbage bags for leaves to the newer toys with motion sensors that start eerie music or activate the motion of a creepy ghoul whenever people come near.

The main idea is to have a good time and to let the kids be very involved in creating this décor. After all, it all goes away in a couple of days. Think of it as decorating for a party! Then, have a very scary time!