A Series of Fortunate Events

My Mom and I competed in our 6th Great Pumpkin Carve last night in Chadds Ford, PA and what a night it was. First we went to the Brandywine River Museum to get some inspiration. While there we were lucky enough to catch a tour being given by Andrew Wyeth's granddaughter. She told some really fascinating stories about "Andy" and his amazing work. We saw two new egg tempera paintings that were huge. Can you believe he is 90 and still painting?
After the museum we headed over to the historical society to begin carving. We were blessed with a perfect pumpkin. It was lovely and round with no pock marks for flaws. I started drawing the design and my mom and her friends took turns scooping out the innards and making the pumpkin wall thin enough for the light to shine through. Luckily the rain stopped long enough for us to complete the carve which took 3 hours. Around 9 PM the judges announced the winners. We were very hopeful that we would be chosen. First they called the Best Overall, not us. Then they called Most Halloween, Best Use of Pumpkin and finally we won for Best Carving!
How exciting! We were even interviewed by the Philadelphia Inquirer for an upcoming article. The night could not have been better.
If you are ever in the area on the weekend before Halloween you must attend this event. We seem to have more fun every year.

2007 Pumpkin Carve Winners

My original painting we used for the pumpkin.



Finished pumpkin.