Pumpkin spice, winterizing plants, forcing bulbs

Daily Newsletter for Saturday, October 29, 2016

Dear Readers,

Everywhere you look there are pumpkin-spiced foods and drinks for sale. If you, like us, wonder what this obsession is all about, read our new article, "A Century-Long Passion for Pumpkin Spice." Try making the real pumpkin spice mix at home—to add to pumpkin pie or sprinkle in your jack-o'-lantern. Learn more in your free Almanac Companion—plus, check your Halloween forecast! 

Sincerely, your Almanac editors

For pottage and puddings and custards and pies
Our pumpkins and parsnips are common supplies,
We have pumpkins at morning and pumpkins at noon,
If it were not for pumpkins we should be undoon.
–Pilgrim verse, circa 1633
Saturday, October 29, 2016
303rd day of the year


Mike Gartner (hockey player) was born on this day in 1959.
Chang Lin-Tien (first Asian American to head a major U.S. university when he was named chancellor at the University of Berkeley) died on this day in 2002.
 

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How to Cook Pumpkin

How to Cook Pumpkin
Here’s how to cook pumpkin the simplest way—plus a selection of delicious pumpkin recipes, from our Blue Ribbon Pumpkin Pie to pumpkin spice pancakes!
  READ MORE  
 
Readers’ Best Recipes and the Stories Behind Them

Get the recipes that folks rave about! We invited Almanac readers to share their best recipes—the favorites served at family gatherings, potlucks, parties, and supper tables. You’ll love the heartwarming, humorous, and true stories that these cooks tell, too!
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$19.95
 
What is Pumpkin Spice?

A Century-Long Passion for Pumpkin Spice
What is pumpkin spice made up of? Who came up with pumpkin spice? Where did this spice blend come from and how has it seemingly tapped into a national craving?
  READ MORE  
 
Pumpkin Melody Placemat - Set of 4

Attention-getting cotton placemats are backed with fabric so they hold their shape. Matching napkins and table runners available. 
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$39.95
 
Winterizing Perennial Plants

Get Your Perennials Ready for Winter
Prepare your perennials for winter! Most perennials can be cut down after the first killing frost; others can add interest or help birds and beneficial insects during the winter months. See our tips.
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The Almanac Weather Rock

100% accurate weather predictor! If the rock is wet, it’s raining. If it’s dry and still, just wait a minute—it’s a mistake and will change soon.
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$19.95
 
Flowers in Wintertime

Forcing Bulbs Indoors for Winter Blooms
As the gardening season slows down, do you still have spring-flowering bulbs that you never planted? Don’t despair! Try potting them up to force into cheerful bloom this winter in the house. 
  READ MORE  
 
Alpaca Fleece Socks

The cure for cold feet! Alpaca socks are soft, luxurious, and warmer than sheep’s wool. Choose from active outdoor and extreme cold styles.
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$21.95-$24.95
 
Make Pumpkin Spice

Pumpkin Spice Mix Recipe
This homemade pumpkin spice recipe takes 5 minutes to mix up—with 5 ingredients that you may already have in your pantry! Making your own costs less than buying a jar at the store—and even better when it’s homemade. Then add this fragrant mix to pies, pancakes, roasted fall veggies, lattes, oatmeal—and all your fall favorites.
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Cozy Heating Pads | On Sale

Animal-shaped microwave heating pads that double as a gentle ice packs. Provide natural hot and cold comfort! Microwave for moist heat therapy to relax stiff muscles and improve circulation and flexibility. 
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$26.95