Halloween is two months from today! That makes it a good time to start planning!

• Halloween candy displays are already up in the stores. I am all about planning in advance, but that's just crazy. The likelihood that any candy bought now will survive until the end of October is less than zero. Do not (I repeat, DO NOT) buy your candy yet.
• If you and/or your children dress up for Halloween, you need to start thinking about costumes. Each year I post some ideas for last minute costumes, but do you really want to go that route? Plus, leaving extra time means you can check out thrift stores for inexpensive costume pieces. Aim for a final decision by the end of September. You don't want to be stitching a costume in the week hours on the 30th!
• If you throw a Halloween party, start planning your guest list and menu.
• If you decorate for Halloween, you'll need to look over the decorations you have and make any necessary repairs or replacements. If you want to add anything, the shopping selection is best now and you still have time for crafting.
• If all you plan to do is hand out treats or go to a party, stock up on some nice pumpkin ale or crisp cider when it hits the stores and kick back. You're golden.

NO — DON'T BUY YOUR CANDY YET!!!!!!