Home Help: Want the best jack-o-lantern on the block?

How To Make A Jack-O-Lantern, courtesy of Wikihow:

1. Pick out the nicest and healthiest looking pumpkin. Make sure that you do not buy it too long before Halloween.

2. Take a sharp knife and score a line about 5 inches from the top of the pumpkin right around the circumference. You can make it a jagged line if you like. You may also cut the hole in the bottom of the pumpkin, making it easier to put in and light the candle.

3. Use a large carving knife and carefully slice the top half of the pumpkin off using the scored line for guidance. Carefully remove the top and set it aside.

4. Use a large spoon or a scoop and remove all of the filling and seeds. Place them into a bowl to be used later.

5. Draw a design or face on the front of your pumpkin for reference. Make it as spooky or creative as you like, but remember not to cut out too much - the more pumpkin you remove from the face, the more likely your jack-o-lantern will cave in.

6. Cut the shapes out using a sharp knife, carving tools or a dremel.

7. Replace the lid that you had set aside.

8. Fill the insides with tealights, candles or LEDs and watch it glow.

Coming Soon to Your Home?

Perhaps you're in a mood to splurge, or maybe you're related to Bill Gates and want to put something special on your Christmas list. How about a Panasonic TH-103PF9UK TV? This 103-inch plasma TV has a resolution of 1080p and costs $70,000. - Forbes

Watch Your Potty Mouth

A woman from Scranton, Pa., who was upset about her overflowing toilet began screaming obscenities at it. Though she was still in her bathroom at the time of the colorful outburst, the window was open and a neighbor - who happens to be a cop - heard the foul language and called on-duty officers. The woman was charged with disorderly conduct and faces up to 90 days in jail and a fine of $300, according to The Associated Press.

Tip of the Week: How to Fix a Noisy Humidifier

A noisy humidifier may be the result of an unlubricated fan motor or a drive mechanism clogged by debris. If it seems loose, vibrating parts are causing the noise. According to Hometips.com, perform the following actions:

1. Disconnect the power.

2. Remove the cover and look for any vibrating parts. Tighten screws, if necessary.

3. Wiggle the fan to see if it is loose on its shaft. If it is, tighten the mounting fasteners. Lubricate the motor's bearings if suggested in your owner's manual.

4. If it still makes noise, call an appliance repairperson or take the unit into an appliance repair shop.

Want to Go Green?

Turn down the thermostat. Lowering it by just one degree can reduce heating energy costs by about 4 percent. - Treehugger.com

The Psychology of Color

Want to add a specific touch to your home just by changing colors? Here's a tip from HGTV.com:

High-intensity blue is a cool and relaxing color. When you use it in a slightly lighter shade, it helps rooms appear larger. All dark shades of the color blue are peaceful and spiritual, and known to slow respiration rates and heartbeat.

GateHouse News Service