Halloween

This mummy dogs recipe from Instructables member Scoochmaroo couldn't be anymore quicker or cuter. Hot dogs wrapped in crescent rolls already equals yummy but she steps it up to the next wienie wrap level with her tutorial demonstrating how dogs, dough and a little mustard can be made into some awesome and tasty mummies.

It's no secret we are major fans of goodies crafted using recycled materials here at Otterhop. And we are especially loving all the stellar ideas for making repurposed Halloween luminaries.

Practicing counting skills and number recognition is easy as "1, 2, 3," when your toddler buys into the process of what you're trying to teach her. Getting her to take ownership in her learning is key. Kids love all things Halloween so why not use this as a motivating theme to get the learning started in a fun and pleasurable way for your toddler?

I'm completely in love with this wee gnome costume tutorial from Instructables member Stavro. And I appreciate everything that this kiddie get-up represents...It's the best of homemade Halloween mixed with eco-consciousness mixed with oodles and oddles of cutie-pie goodness. Plus, it's simple and cheap enough to throw together when you're out of time and need a costume fast.

Although my daughter did mermaid last Halloween she still frequently puts on the ol' costume and slips into an imaginary trip "under the sea." However, her fast growing fins are quickly outgrowing the outfit and I know soon she'll have to pass her favorite costume on to a new mini-merperson.

Growing up I was all over the pioneer days.

Maya*Made's inspirational ideas makes me want to spiffy up our home with seasonal flare. And after seeing her tutorial for fall newspaper bunting I knew I just had to jump into Autumn action.

There's something sweet about the soft glow of Halloween luminaries lined up in a perfect row on someone's front walkway lighting the path for teeny trick-or-treaters and inviting them over for a goody. That's why I'm loving this Spirit Jug tutorial from Family Fun.

I really appreciate this Bat Mobile tutorial shared by Ellen of the crafty-cool site The Long Thread on many levels. From her witty title to her use of recycled materials to make a Halloween decoration that's fun, frugal and eco-friendly I couldn't love it anymore. She's included clear directions and even a printable bat template guaranteeing this easy-as-pumpkin pie DIY is simple enough for the kids to help make.

With Halloween falling on a Friday this year your family can continue the holiday fun throughout the weekend. One event that's totally family friendly and free and looks really cool is the Pumpkin Launch 2008 being held on November 1st at the Cal State University of Fullerton's Titan Stadium from 9am to 2pm.