Origins of Halloween, how to make pie, easy houseplants

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

Daily Newsletter for Thursday, October 29, 2020



Thursday, October 29, 2020
Who was born on this day?
What happened today in history?
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raven

Till I scarcely more than muttered “Other friends have flown before—
On the morrow he will leave me, as my Hopes have flown before.”
Then the bird said “Nevermore.”
–Edgar Allan Poe (1809–49)

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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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Actress Reveals the “Bathroom Trick” That Made Her Feel Years Younger

When Maggie first revealed this “bathroom trick” on her website earlier this month, some were understandably skeptical. To her amazement, she says her stomach “deflated,” her mood improved, and her energy skyrocketed — all in a matter of days. Click Here For Instructions.
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Easy Houseplants for Your Home
Easy Houseplants for Your Home

Have you caught the houseplant bug? See our list of favorite easy-care houseplants and find the right one for your indoor space.
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Wondering about the date and significance of the Full Cold Moon?

Celebrate December’s Full Cold Moon with our 2021 Moon Calendar! This calendar will answer all your questions with fascinating lunar facts and moonlit folklore!
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The Three Sisters: Corn, Beans, and Squash
The Three Sisters: Corn, Beans, and Squash

Did you know that corn, beans, and squash are called the “Three Sisters”? A number of Native American tribes interplanted this trio because they thrive together, much like three inseparable sisters. Here’s how to plant your own Three Sisters garden.
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Light up your home under the Full Moon—Special 50% off Sale!

Special 50% off Moon Shiners Sun-Powered Lids! Display your favorite treasures with illumination in our Moon Shiners. The design possibilities are endless! Create unique displays of photos, mementos, or found objects.
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How to Make a Pie: Crusts, Fillings, and More
How to Make a Pie: Crusts, Fillings, and More

Pie, brought over with the earliest settlers from England, has become an American institution. Making a tender, flaky pie crust isn’t just about the crust recipe; it’s about the right techniques. Keep everything cold and work the dough sparingly. See our tips—plus, videos on how to jazz up your top...
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2021 Old Farmer's Almanac Everyday Calendar

Enjoyed by readers for more than 25 years, this full-color, page-per-day tear-away box calendar features fun facts, folklore, tips, quotes, proverbs, puzzles, and more! Every day is “useful, with a pleasant degree of humor.”
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Redeeming the Raven, Evermore
Redeeming the Raven, Evermore

The raven has been described as a “grim, ungainly, ghastly, gaunt, and ominous bird of yore” (to quote Edgar Allan Poe). The bird’s bad reputation—as a bringer of death and dark omens—couldn’t be more wrong. Enjoy these surprising facts about ravens from naturalist Henry Walters—...
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2021 Almanac Gardening Club

Introducing The Old Farmer’s Almanac Gardening Club—Become a Member Today and Save 43%! Includes our new book Gardening for Everyone.
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