Women at work and their tips, challenges, advice, complaints, and experiences

Have you carved that Jack-o-lantern yet?  It's always fun, and about.com has some great tips to make the pumpkin the best it can be!

1. Do not eat a pumpkin that has been carved.
2. Choose a pumpkin that is large because it is easier to carve.  Avoid pumpkins with bruises or moldy stems because they will spoil quicker.  Pumpkins with lighter color tend to be softer and easier to carve.
3. When cutting the top, try and keep it at a 45% angle so the lid will have a place to rest when you replace it.  If you cut the lid straight across, it will fall through.
4. For longer life, soak the pumpkin in bleach water.  Dry thoroughly, rub the inside and out with vegetable oil or petroleum jelly to prevent shriveling.
5. Print out a pattern that you want to carve.  Tape it to the pumpkin and trace it with a marker so you will get the desired shapes and faces you want.
6. If you light the jack-o-lantern with a candle, make sure it is a tea light, and that you keep the lid off when candle is lit to avoid a fire.  You can always substitute a candle for a small flashlight.
7. Place the jack-o-lantern in a plastic bag and refrigerate when not in use.

Also, you can add some cinnamon or nutmeg or any other spice to the pumpkin that will add a nice fragrance when the pumpkin is lit!