Pumpkin Carving/Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

Carving a pumpkin is a great family activity and can be really easy with the free templates available.  My husband and I carved this one in honor of our lovely, fluffy, plump kitty.

1) Start by selecting your pumpkin and wiping down the outside.

2) Cut off the top of the pumpkin and scoop out the seeds and stringy parts.  Then use an ice cream scoop to reduce the pumpkin's walls to about an inch thick.  You can use a straight pin to test it.

3) Cut out the template and pin the template onto the pumpkin.

Templates: http://www.tasteofhome.com/Recipes/Holiday---Celebration-Recipes/Halloween-Recipes/Pumpkin-Carving-Stencils

4) Trace the template.

5) Carve out the template sections.

6) Place a few tea lights in the pumpkin and enjoy!






Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

1) Rinse off the seeds and place on a cookie sheet.
2) Place a small amount of oil on the cookie sheet and stir to coat.
3) Sprinkle a small amount of salt or kosher salt on top.
4) Bake at 325 degrees for 25 to 35 minutes.

Enjoy!

Mix with cranberries for a snack on the go.