Happy, HEALTHY Halloween!

I love seeing adorable, itty-bitty, munchkin-sized ghosts and goblins making their annual rounds in neighborhoods for their dutiful collection of Halloween goodies. Office parties wouldn't be the same without those oh-so-yummy Fun Size Snickers and other hyper-sweetened candies strewn across every desk.

Let's face it, candy is a universal language. People of all nationalities and cultural backgrounds find amore in this comfort food. It adds a little sweetness to the daily lives of an ever-increasing sour world. OK, I'll admit it--candy makes my taste buds sing opera.

But, I haven't touched a lot of Halloween candy in a few years only because my overall cravings have changed. Also, I don't have tiny tykes to entertain and feed, either--but I know that a 100 Grand Bar will have you knocking on Diabetes door a lot quicker than a dull homemade Pretzel snack. But I'm here to change the common notion that homemade "healthier" versions of Halloween candy is nauseating, rated G, or just plain lackluster.

Halloween is a time for bonding with family, friends, and children, so be creative and lean toward the "Trick" instead of the "Treat" in the Halloween mantra. Here's a list of websites that feature affordable and healthy alternatives to traditional Halloween pleasures, as well as ideas for arts and crafts:

• Bethenny Frankel always knows best. Her creative Halloween party ideas for kids include Icky Ice Cubes (gummy spiders frozen in water) and sawed-off toes (cocktail franks wrapped in puff pastry with a squiggle of ketchup for blood).

• If you're a vegetarian, About.com offers up some vegan-friendly options to celebrate Halloween.

• I'm definitely following iVillage.com's unique, scrumptious recipes like their Spooky Honey Popcorn Balls or Take-Along Snack Mix.

• Cooks.com has a listing of Halloween goodies that includes Halloween funnel cakes. Any reason to make Funnel Cake is good enough for me!

• Check the clever ways to make non-edible Halloween treats as well as tips on bypassing the sugar aisle at eHow.com.

• Even non-diabetics can appreciate the great ideas for fun flavor at dLife.com. The tips for trolling for healthy appetizers can be applied not just to Halloween parties, but year-round.

• And finally, if the environment is your first priority, mosey on down to Green Halloween for fantastic tips on hosting your Eco-Conscious Ghastly Ball.

Have a healthy, safe, and most importantly gloriously GHOULISH Halloween!

Have any healthy alternatives to Halloween candy? Share them with us in the comments! And make sure to check out all our great Halloween deals on Halloween costumes, party supplies and more.