I’m beginning to see pumpkins on neighbors porches and fence posts. It reminded me that Papa taught me how to carve pumpkins – an activity he enjoyed. He helped us scoop out the squishy pumpkin guts, and then estimate the best site to carve the design – allowing for the shape of the pumpkin and any odd formations on it. We’d make a rough sketch on a piece of paper – usually nothing fancy – just triangle eyes and nose with a toothless grin. The simplicity of the design made it easy for us kids to do. Nowadays, pumpkin carving is an art form – and as much as I ooh and aah at intricately designed pumpkins, there is something to be said for keeping it simple, too. 🙂   I found an interesting history of the Jack-O-Lantern at the History.com website.