It’s almost that time of the year again for pumpkin carving, trick-or-treating, and sharing ghost stories in the dark. Now is the time to start thinking up costume ideas so you can beat the mad rush in October.

I played it pretty safe as a kid, having dressed up as She-Ra, a witch, a cat, a bunny, a hippie, a princess, and a surgeon. Now that I’m older, I’m using Hallowe’en as an excuse to load up on gothic-inspired costumes.

At last year’s office Hallowe’en party, I went as a punk-rock schoolgirl. I pieced together a complete outfit including a red-plaid skirt, fishnet stockings, and a black mesh top. This year, I may dress up as Little Dead Riding Hood, a dark sorceress, or a sassy devil.

For more ideas and to save on costumes and accessories, I’m heading to Costume SuperCenter. Plus, until September 30, using the coupon will get you 15% off costumes $35 and up!

Go as Trotsky, a S.W.A.T. member, a caveperson, a correctional officer, or Spiderman. Piece together various costume accessories to come up with a look that suits you or go with packaged costumes. Costume SuperCenter has everything from a naughty librarian outfit to a silly grape get-up.

Shop today and peruse the best selection at Costume SuperCenter!

Having played the clarinet, flute, saxophone, piano, harmonica, and trumpet, it comes as no surprise that the acoustic guitar would be next on my To-Play List. Strumming my pain with his fingers? The first day I bought the guitar, I played that bad boy until my fingertips proudly displayed calluses.

After I practice and get more comfortable, I want to get an electric guitar - maybe something like the Fender Blem Classic Series ’50s Stratocaster Electric Guitar with a Daphne Blue Maple Fretboard. I love its vintage rock ‘n’ roll character. It totally channels Buddy Holly.

And for music buffs who want to get more for less, you won’t want to miss this offer: $20 off orders of $200 or more of in-stock items at Musician’s Friend. Use the coupon by September 27 to save big!

Not only do I like playing musical instruments, but I appreciate the creative efforts of others. And thanks to my wonderful boyfriend, I can now enjoy the tunes on my iPod even more with my brand spankin’ new AKG K 81 DJ-Style Headphones. They muffle outside sounds so that your listening pleasure is uninterrupted.

Once I save up some more money, I plan to get a standard Yamaha Bb clarinet because back in high school when I used to play, I was pretty sick.

And I’ve always loved the look and sound of majestic harps, but the price tags were always insane (which is expected, given the craftsmanship). Then I took a look at Musician’s Friend and came across an economically priced one - Rees Harps Harpsicle Harp. It’s perfect for the beginner who wants to give it a try.

The bargain beat goes on when you shop at Musician’s Friend!

The clock is teasing me. Lunch is only 2 minutes away and my stomach is like the WWE getting ready to rumble. I’m craving a huge plate full of meat lasagna, but I’d also settle for 4-cheese tortellini with a large serving of fresh garden salad. Yum…

These days I’m also trying to learn how to cook more main courses, but after work, I’m usually tired and besides, it’s nice to enjoy a meal outside every now and then. Of course I’m not the golden goose, so I don’t have an endless supply of moola.

Thankfully, using the Restaurant.com coupon by September 20 gets you 50% off dining gift certificates to many of your favorites and soon-to-become favorites. Get $25 certificates for only $5!

Treat your taste buds to international, savory dishes. Indulge in a make-your-mouth water dessert drizzled with caramel sauce, topped with sprinkles, and sprayed with real whipped cream.

With good friends, a silly conversation, and delicious food, you simply cannot go wrong! But snatch up this Restaurant.com special offer before it’s too late.

(On that note, it’s time for me to stuff my face!)

National Play-Doh Day - Few toys encourage as much imagination and creativity as Play-Doh. Playtime starts as a blank sculpture, which is then molded into anything one’s mind can come up with. The possibilities are literally endless. Buy Play-Doh at KBToys and save thanks to FabulousSavings. Receive a free gift with the purchase of select items.

Air Force Birthday - Celebrate the Air Force’s birthday by taking to the skies in a real fighter jet. Book a Signature Days vacation package and you can be a pilot for a day. This is not a simulator and no flight experience is required! Shop with exclusive FabulousSavings coupons and get 10% off a dream holiday.

National Chocolate Day - One can never have enough chocolate. Use these free FabulousSavings coupons to keep your supply levels stocked:

• zChocolat - Luxury chocolate
• Mrs. Beasley’s - Chocolate cupcakes
• David’s Cookies - Double chocolate cookies