Potato pie, whiteflies, DIY lip balm, how Halloween began

This is an archived issue of our Almanac.com Companion email newsletter.

Daily Newsletter for Thursday, October 25, 2018



Thursday, October 25, 2018
Who was born on this day?
What happened today in history?
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asters and goldenrod

The sparkling fields of dewy grass,
Woodpaths and roadsides decked with flowers,
Starred asters and the goldenrod,
Date Autumn’s hours.

–Elizabeth Drew Stoddard (1823–1902)

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Irish Potato Pie
Irish Potato Pie

This recipe, with slight adjustments, was brought over ‘on the boat’ by the cook’s great-great-aunt in the 1800s.
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Plants With Seeds to Feed the Birds
Plants With Seeds to Feed the Birds

In the autumn, let’s not be in a hurry to cut down plants that have interesting seed heads. The birds fully appreciate having a smorgasbord of seeds to choose from and we love watching them! Listed here are plants that have great seed heads for birds. 
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Peterson's Songbird Coasters

Set of four coasters featuring the exquisite artwork of avian artist Roger Tory Peterson.
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Whiteflies
Whiteflies

Noticing tiny, white, fly-like insects on your plants? You may be dealing with a whitefly infestation. Here are tips on how to identify, control, and get rid of whiteflies!
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Vintage Cast Iron Sun

Measures almost a foot across and is made using traditional sand-casting techniques. The weather-resistant finish allows it to be enjoyed outdoors or indoors. 
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Origins of Halloween Traditions
Origins of Halloween Traditions

Why does Halloween make us think of trick-or-treating, witches on broomsticks, bobbing for apples, and carved pumpkins? Why are carved pumpkins called Jack-O’-Lanterns? Here’s a look back at the origins of Halloween traditions and why we celebrate Halloween the way we do today.
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Support Your Local Farmers Tote Bag

This sturdy cotton canvas bag features The Old Farmer’s Almanac 1792 logo on one side and the message “Support Your Local Farmers” on the other. Made in the USA. 
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Make Your Own Lip Balm
Make Your Own Lip Balm

As we come indoors and then go out, the dry winter air causes static hair, parched skin, and—especially—cracked lips. It’s easy and inexpensive to make your own moisturizing lip balm from natural ingredients.
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Carved Wooden Sign

Measures over 2 feet wide and features a distressed finish!
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