It's the most wonderful time of the year...

No, I'm not talking about Christmas (although that too is quickly approaching). I'm talking about Halloween - one of my favorite holidays! Yes, maybe it is because it is also my birthday, but I just love watching kids (and adults) get excited about dressing up in costumes and being something different for a night. We all want to be something different at one time or another, don't we?? And Halloween gives us the chance to do that without anyone asking questions :)

I know this is old - you see it around everywhere this time of year - but I just wanted to take a moment to pass along some Halloween safety tips. You never know... maybe there is that one person out there who has never seen or heard them. And I just did my part to help them out.

• Walk, slither and sneak on sidewalks, not in the street.
• Look both ways before crossing the street to check for cars, trucks and low-flying brooms.
• Cross the street only at corners.
• Don't hide or cross the street between parked cars.
• Wear light-colored or reflective-type clothing so you are more visible. (And remember to put reflective tape on bikes, skateboards, and brooms, too!)
• Plan your route and share it with your family. If possible, have an adult go with you.
• Carry a flashlight to light your way.
• Keep away from open fires and candles. (Costumes can be extremely flammable.)
• Visit homes that have the porch light on.
• Accept your treats at the door and never go into a stranger's house.
• Use face paint rather than masks or things that will cover your eyes.
• Be cautious of animals and strangers.
• Have a grown-up inspect your treats before eating. And don't eat candy if the package is already opened. Small, hard pieces of candy are a choking hazard for young children.

Remember - you can still have fun while being safe!

Here's wishing everyone a fun and safe Halloween! Trick-or-treat!