We all know that pumpkins that are left plain are perfectly suitable for display, and pumpkins with the facial features cut out are very fun, especially with a burning candle inside – BUT have you ever gone through the effort of cutting out eyes, nose and mouth?

Why not take the easier route? Paint your pumpkins! The designs are limited only to your imagination – and after that purpose is served (if you do not wait TOO long and are so inclined), you can cook the pumpkin and make pies, cookies, or casseroles.

Be sure to guard your pumpkins from thieves. Quite a few years ago, when we were living in Ohio, my husband and I bought two very large pumpkins (probably 80 to 100 pounds each.) We put one on each side of our front steps for display. Imagine our surprise when we went out one day to find that one had been stolen.

I really hope this doesn’t happen to you!